Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions."

Addressing the Alliance for Multilateral Meeting, the EAM spoke on United Nations saying that at the body "we could not even agree on fighting the virus, let alone coordinate responses. This reflects a larger systemic failure. Clearly, the multilateral machinery is exhausted, if not broken."

The comments come even as India has been calling for reforms at multilateral institutions, including at reformed United Nations Security Council. Four out of five members of the UNSC -- Russia, US, UK and France have backed India at the high table in UN, except China. 
&nbsp; 
S Jaishankar highlighted how even as "supply-chains snapped and the world stopped" due to the pandemic, "Prime Minister Modi issued a call fora ‘Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat."

Addressing India's response to COVID crisis at global level, EAM said, "Our approach is to develop solidarity within and outside our borders. During this pandemic, we extended medical aid, personnel and training to 150 countries. Our flights of returning nationals carried our neighbours."&nbsp;

India, notably, amidst the COVID pandemic sent crucial medicines like hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to around 150 countries.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "cry for reformed multilateralism becomes stronger than ever before," highlighting how the coronavirus crisis has "laid bare the shortcomings of multilateral institutions." Addressing the Alliance for Multilateral Meeting, the EAM spoke on United Nations saying that at the body "we could not even agree on fighting the virus, let alone coordinate responses. This reflects a larger systemic failure. Clearly, the multilateral machinery is exhausted, if not broken." The comments come even as India has been calling for reforms at multilateral institutions, including at reformed United Nations Security Council. Four out of five members of the UNSC -- Russia, US, UK and France have backed India at the high table in UN, except China. S Jaishankar highlighted how even as "supply-chains snapped and the world stopped" due to the pandemic, "Prime Minister Modi issued a call fora ‘Aatma-Nirbhar Bharat." Addressing India's response to COVID crisis at global level, EAM said, "Our approach is to develop solidarity within and outside our borders. During this pandemic, we extended medical aid, personnel and training to 150 countries. Our flights of returning nationals carried our neighbours." India, notably, amidst the COVID pandemic sent crucial medicines like hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to around 150 countries.

Cry for reformed multilateralism stronger than ever before: EAM S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process.

"Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said.

Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

"FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu &amp; listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order &amp; rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted.

India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference.

India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. 
The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate.

India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan. The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country. Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process. "Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said. Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. "FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu & listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order & rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted. India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country. On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference. India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled. India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate. India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.

Jaishankar holds talks with former Afghan vice prez Abdul Rashid Dostum

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi. The development shows the growing closeness between India and Saudi Arabia.

The last time India's EAM was present at National Day celebration of any country was in 2018 when the then external affairs minister late Sushma Swaraj was the chief guest at Russian National Day at the Russian embassy in Delhi.&nbsp;

Speaking at the 90th National day celebrations, Saudi Arabia's envoy to India Saud M Al Sati called India a "close friend and an important strategic partner", one with whom the country has "cultural, socioeconomic engagement and strategic partnership" based on "mutual respect and shared interests.".

The country is India’s fourth-largest trade partner and a major source of energy as India imports around 18 per cent&nbsp;of its crude oil requirement from the Kingdom.

He added,"Our investment in India is growing and our engagement is expanding" and "there is a huge untapped potential available in merchandise trade, particularly in non-oil trade and we are enhancing cooperation in commercial, investment, cultural and technological fields."

Trade between the 2 countries has increased significantly and current bilateral trade stands at $34 billion. The country hosts 2.6 million-strong Indian community, with 200,000 Indians visiting it in 2019 for the Hajj pilgrimage.&nbsp;

Sati also highlighted the "bonds" both countries share which are "diverse and deeply rooted and will continue its importance as we pursue our mutual quest for prosperous future for all."

Ties between the two countries have been growing and 2019 saw the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, followed by the visit of Indian PM Modi to the country in October. Saudi Arabia is the host of G20 grouping and later this year will host the summit.&nbsp;

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi.

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi. The development shows the growing closeness between India and Saudi Arabia. The last time India's EAM was present at National Day celebration of any country was in 2018 when the then external affairs minister late Sushma Swaraj was the chief guest at Russian National Day at the Russian embassy in Delhi. Speaking at the 90th National day celebrations, Saudi Arabia's envoy to India Saud M Al Sati called India a "close friend and an important strategic partner", one with whom the country has "cultural, socioeconomic engagement and strategic partnership" based on "mutual respect and shared interests.". The country is India’s fourth-largest trade partner and a major source of energy as India imports around 18 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the Kingdom. He added,"Our investment in India is growing and our engagement is expanding" and "there is a huge untapped potential available in merchandise trade, particularly in non-oil trade and we are enhancing cooperation in commercial, investment, cultural and technological fields." Trade between the 2 countries has increased significantly and current bilateral trade stands at $34 billion. The country hosts 2.6 million-strong Indian community, with 200,000 Indians visiting it in 2019 for the Hajj pilgrimage. Sati also highlighted the "bonds" both countries share which are "diverse and deeply rooted and will continue its importance as we pursue our mutual quest for prosperous future for all." Ties between the two countries have been growing and 2019 saw the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, followed by the visit of Indian PM Modi to the country in October. Saudi Arabia is the host of G20 grouping and later this year will host the summit.

Jaishankar, NSA Doval at Saudi National Day in Delhi; Saudi envoy calls India 'important strategic partner'

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues"

Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy."

SAARC foreign ministers and Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures or CICA FMs met virtually on Thursday and at both the meetings Pakistani foreign minister raised Kashmir. While at CICA it was direct mentioning, at SAARC it was by diplomatic usage of words by recalling UNSC resolutions.

At SAARC India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar without mentioning Pakistan's name listed out the challenges faced by the region. He listed cross border, obstructionism for connectivity and trade as main challenges for SAARC, in all of which Islamabad has a major role to play.

On CICA, MEA in its right of reply said, "Pakistan has misused another forum by continuing its spurious narrative about India" and "The Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and will remain an integral part of India. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal affairs."

Interestingly, Pakistan also raked Kashmir at the United Nations Human rights council and got a strong rebuttal by India.&nbsp;

Vimarsh Aryan, India's first secretary at the United Nations in Geneva speaking at the council said, " In these extraordinary times of pandemic when everyone is putting on a mask for the safety and protection of fellow human beings, Pakistan, unfortunately, is using another kind of pernicious mask to masquerade as a champion of human rights that it itself violates egregiously by torturing and persecuting minorities."

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues" Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy.

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues" Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy." SAARC foreign ministers and Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures or CICA FMs met virtually on Thursday and at both the meetings Pakistani foreign minister raised Kashmir. While at CICA it was direct mentioning, at SAARC it was by diplomatic usage of words by recalling UNSC resolutions. At SAARC India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar without mentioning Pakistan's name listed out the challenges faced by the region. He listed cross border, obstructionism for connectivity and trade as main challenges for SAARC, in all of which Islamabad has a major role to play. On CICA, MEA in its right of reply said, "Pakistan has misused another forum by continuing its spurious narrative about India" and "The Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and will remain an integral part of India. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal affairs." Interestingly, Pakistan also raked Kashmir at the United Nations Human rights council and got a strong rebuttal by India. Vimarsh Aryan, India's first secretary at the United Nations in Geneva speaking at the council said, " In these extraordinary times of pandemic when everyone is putting on a mask for the safety and protection of fellow human beings, Pakistan, unfortunately, is using another kind of pernicious mask to masquerade as a champion of human rights that it itself violates egregiously by torturing and persecuting minorities."

"Typical of Pakistan...”, says India as Islamabad rakes Kashmir at SAARC, CICA 

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries"

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise. They will have some common interest and many interests which are more individual or nationally centred. And that process of how to adjust to each other when both are rising, to my mind is one of the big issues in the diplomacy of both countries."

Calling "border issues" as "one part of that problem" he said, "we are going through a very unprecedented situation, and if one looks at in a longer-term, this is one facet of larger phenomenon" for which both "India and China have to sit down and find a solution."

Earlier this month both Indian and Chinese foreign minister had first in-person physical meeting amidst the more than four-month-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis. After the 2 hours long meet, both came out with 5-point joint statement calling for easing the situation of the LAC via dialogue, disengagement and maintaining the distance between the troops of 2 countries.

After the meet, the corps commanders of India and China met earlier this week and agreed that build up should be stopped. The was the 6th such meeting and both sides will soon meet for the next round of talks.

MEA spokesperson giving an update on the situation on Thursday said, "The two sides have also decided to strengthen the ground communication to avoid any further misunderstandings and misjudgments, stop sending more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground, and avoid taking any actions that may complicate the situation."

The next meeting of the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination is expected to take place soon.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise. They will have some common interest and many interests which are more individual or nationally centred. And that process of how to adjust to each other when both are rising, to my mind is one of the big issues in the diplomacy of both countries." Calling "border issues" as "one part of that problem" he said, "we are going through a very unprecedented situation, and if one looks at in a longer-term, this is one facet of larger phenomenon" for which both "India and China have to sit down and find a solution." Earlier this month both Indian and Chinese foreign minister had first in-person physical meeting amidst the more than four-month-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis. After the 2 hours long meet, both came out with 5-point joint statement calling for easing the situation of the LAC via dialogue, disengagement and maintaining the distance between the troops of 2 countries. After the meet, the corps commanders of India and China met earlier this week and agreed that build up should be stopped. The was the 6th such meeting and both sides will soon meet for the next round of talks. MEA spokesperson giving an update on the situation on Thursday said, "The two sides have also decided to strengthen the ground communication to avoid any further misunderstandings and misjudgments, stop sending more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground, and avoid taking any actions that may complicate the situation." The next meeting of the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination is expected to take place soon.

India, China need to adjust to each other's rise: S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between&nbsp;India and&nbsp;Japan in third countries such as&nbsp;Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

The comments&nbsp;are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands.

Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;visited&nbsp;Vladivostok last year&nbsp;for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoshihide-suga-formally-elected-as-japans-new-prime-minister-327826">Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister</a>

India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries&nbsp;for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in&nbsp;Bangladesh and Myanmar."

India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Jaishankar&nbsp;called Japan as India's "most trusted partners&nbsp;and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity".

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar&nbsp;said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island. The comments are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands. Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vladivostok last year for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects. Also read: Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in Bangladesh and Myanmar." India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar. Jaishankar called Japan as India's "most trusted partners and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity". Ties between the two countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jaishankar said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

EAM Jaishankar calls for expansion of India, Japan partnership to Russia, Pacific Island

India has extended its support for a ceasefire in Afghanistan at the ceremony marking the beginning of talks between the Afghan government and Taliban in Doha.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-virtually-joins-intra-afghan-ceremony-held-in-doha-327020">Also Read:&nbsp;India's foreign minister Jaishankar 'virtually' joins intra-Afghan ceremony held in Doha</a>

&nbsp;India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who joined the meet virtually while reiterating that Afghan peace process should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" must "respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan" &amp; "promote human rights and democracy" .

He also stated that the process should "ensure interest of minorities, women and the vulnerable" &amp; "effectively address violence across the country".

On the issue of terrorism, he said,"soil of Afghanistan should not be used for anti-India activities". According to the United Nations report earlier this year, about 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Afghanistan.

He highlighted India's role as a development partner of Afghanistan, and how it reached out amidst COVID-19. New Delhi is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built number infrastructure projects in the country like India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat &amp; the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul. &nbsp;

Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan &amp; Iran (PAI) division in ministry of external affairs, JP Singh is present physically at the ceremony.

India was present along with around 30 countries at the ceremony. All the countries that border Afghanistan have been invited which includes Iran, Pakistan and many central Asian countries.

WION&nbsp;was the first to break on Friday that India will be present at the ceremony in Doha. Official negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government starts on Monday.

Earlier this year, India was present at the signing of US Taliban deal which was signed on February 29 in Doha. The then Indian envoy in Doha P Kumaran represented India.

Afghan govt is being represented by Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Afghan President’s Special Representative on Peace Affairs Abdul Salam Rahimi and State Minister for Peace Affairs Seyed Sa’adat Mansour Naderi. In his speech, Abdullah Abdullah called for a "humanitarian ceasefire".

Taliban is being represented by Abdul Ghani Baradar.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is in Qatar to attend the opening ceremony of Afghanistan peace negotiations. The Afghan government negotiating delegation reached for Doha on Friday to start peace negotiations with the Taliban group.&nbsp;

India has extended its support for a ceasefire in Afghanistan at the ceremony marking the beginning of talks between the Afghan government and Taliban in Doha. Also Read: India's foreign minister Jaishankar 'virtually' joins intra-Afghan ceremony held in Doha India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who joined the meet virtually while reiterating that Afghan peace process should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" must "respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan" & "promote human rights and democracy" .

India has extended its support for a ceasefire in Afghanistan at the ceremony marking the beginning of talks between the Afghan government and Taliban in Doha. Also Read: India's foreign minister Jaishankar 'virtually' joins intra-Afghan ceremony held in Doha India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who joined the meet virtually while reiterating that Afghan peace process should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" must "respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan" & "promote human rights and democracy" . He also stated that the process should "ensure interest of minorities, women and the vulnerable" & "effectively address violence across the country". On the issue of terrorism, he said,"soil of Afghanistan should not be used for anti-India activities". According to the United Nations report earlier this year, about 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are based in Afghanistan. He highlighted India's role as a development partner of Afghanistan, and how it reached out amidst COVID-19. New Delhi is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built number infrastructure projects in the country like India Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat & the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul. Joint Secretary, Pakistan Afghanistan & Iran (PAI) division in ministry of external affairs, JP Singh is present physically at the ceremony. India was present along with around 30 countries at the ceremony. All the countries that border Afghanistan have been invited which includes Iran, Pakistan and many central Asian countries. WION was the first to break on Friday that India will be present at the ceremony in Doha. Official negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government starts on Monday. Earlier this year, India was present at the signing of US Taliban deal which was signed on February 29 in Doha. The then Indian envoy in Doha P Kumaran represented India. Afghan govt is being represented by Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Afghan President’s Special Representative on Peace Affairs Abdul Salam Rahimi and State Minister for Peace Affairs Seyed Sa’adat Mansour Naderi. In his speech, Abdullah Abdullah called for a "humanitarian ceasefire". Taliban is being represented by Abdul Ghani Baradar. US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is in Qatar to attend the opening ceremony of Afghanistan peace negotiations. The Afghan government negotiating delegation reached for Doha on Friday to start peace negotiations with the Taliban group.

India extends support for 'immediate ceasefire' in Afghanistan; says Afghan process should respect rights of minorities

The historic intra-Afghan talks began in Doha today as India's foreign minister Jaishanker said&nbsp;Afghanistan's soil should never be used for any anti-India activities.

Watch:

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"Our expectation is that the soil of Afghanistan should never be used for any anti-India activities," India's foreign minister said, adding, "it must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and must promote human rights &amp; democracy," while reiterating that it should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-virtually-joins-intra-afghan-ceremony-held-in-doha-327020">Also Read: India's foreign minister Jaishankar 'virtually' joins intra-Afghan ceremony held in Doha</a>

Meanwhile, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban co-founder asserted the group's demand for an "Islamic system".

"I want all to consider Islam in their negotiations and agreements and not to sacrifice Islam to personal interests," Baradar said even as US secretary of state called both factions to "seize the opportunity".

"We will undoubtedly counter many challenges in the talks over the coming days, weeks and months. Remember, you are acting not only for this generation of Afghans but for future generations as well, your children and your grandchildren," the US secretary of state said.

The Afghan government's chief negotiator Abdullah Abdullah called for a "humanitarian ceasefire" with the Taliban.

"We have to stop violence and agree on a ceasefire as soon as possible. We want a humanitarian ceasefire," Abdullah said. "I can tell you with confidence that the history of our country will remember today as the end of the war and suffering of our people," he added.

The historic intra-Afghan talks began in Doha today as India's foreign minister Jaishanker said Afghanistan's soil should never be used for any anti-India activities.

The historic intra-Afghan talks began in Doha today as India's foreign minister Jaishanker said Afghanistan's soil should never be used for any anti-India activities. Watch: "Our expectation is that the soil of Afghanistan should never be used for any anti-India activities," India's foreign minister said, adding, "it must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and must promote human rights & democracy," while reiterating that it should be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled". Also Read: India's foreign minister Jaishankar 'virtually' joins intra-Afghan ceremony held in Doha Meanwhile, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban co-founder asserted the group's demand for an "Islamic system". "I want all to consider Islam in their negotiations and agreements and not to sacrifice Islam to personal interests," Baradar said even as US secretary of state called both factions to "seize the opportunity". "We will undoubtedly counter many challenges in the talks over the coming days, weeks and months. Remember, you are acting not only for this generation of Afghans but for future generations as well, your children and your grandchildren," the US secretary of state said. The Afghan government's chief negotiator Abdullah Abdullah called for a "humanitarian ceasefire" with the Taliban. "We have to stop violence and agree on a ceasefire as soon as possible. We want a humanitarian ceasefire," Abdullah said. "I can tell you with confidence that the history of our country will remember today as the end of the war and suffering of our people," he added.

We have to stop violence and agree on humanitarian ceasefire: Afghan government to Taliban during intra-Afghan talks

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is scheduled to leave for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers` meet in Moscow on Tuesday. Dr S Jaishankar will have a short halt in Tehran (Iran).&nbsp;

He is likely to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif today, said sources. Earlier on Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the joint meeting of the Defence Ministers of CIS, the SCO and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Moscow.

Russia reiterated its policy of no arms supply to Pakistan following India`s request on the same, according to sources.

Russia made the commitment during the meeting between Singh and his Russian counterpart Gen Sergey Shoigu in Moscow, sources said.

Singh was on a three-day visit to Russia for attending the combined meeting of Defence Ministers of the SCO and participating in the 75th-anniversary event to commemorate Victory Day.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is scheduled to leave for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers` meet in Moscow on Tuesday. Dr S Jaishankar will have a short halt in Tehran (Iran).

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is scheduled to leave for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers` meet in Moscow on Tuesday. Dr S Jaishankar will have a short halt in Tehran (Iran). He is likely to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif today, said sources. Earlier on Friday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the joint meeting of the Defence Ministers of CIS, the SCO and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Moscow. Russia reiterated its policy of no arms supply to Pakistan following India`s request on the same, according to sources. Russia made the commitment during the meeting between Singh and his Russian counterpart Gen Sergey Shoigu in Moscow, sources said. Singh was on a three-day visit to Russia for attending the combined meeting of Defence Ministers of the SCO and participating in the 75th-anniversary event to commemorate Victory Day.

Meeting of SCO foreign ministers: Jaishankar set to make stopover in Iran en route to Russia 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Bangladesh will hold Joint Consultative Commission soon.

Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar said, "Warm conversation with FM Dr AK Abdul Momen of Bangladesh. Agreed to hold our Joint Consultative Commission very soon. Will continue to work closely to reach the ambitious goals set by our leaders."

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Warm conversation with FM Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen of Bangladesh. Agreed to hold our Joint Consultative Commission very soon. Will continue to work closely to reach the ambitious goals set by our leaders.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1302873820001378304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier today, the Bangladesh Parliament has unanimously adopted a condolence motion on former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, who passed away last month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/mr-indispensable-breathes-his-last-324466" hreflang="en">‘Mr Indispensable’ breathes his last</a>

According to the High Commission of India in Bangladesh, the motion said the people of Bangladesh will remember Mukherjee as a "true patriot".

"Bangladesh @jatiyoshangsad unanimously adopted a condolence motion on the demise of late Pranab Mukherjee, adding, 'The people of Bangladesh will always remember this great eternal leader as a genuine well-wisher of the people of India and Bangladesh and a true patriot'," the High Commission said in a tweet on Monday.

Mukherjee breathed his last at a Delhi hospital on August 31. He was 84.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Bangladesh will hold Joint Consultative Commission soon. Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar said, "Warm conversation with FM Dr AK Abdul Momen of Bangladesh.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Bangladesh will hold Joint Consultative Commission soon. Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar said, "Warm conversation with FM Dr AK Abdul Momen of Bangladesh. Agreed to hold our Joint Consultative Commission very soon. Will continue to work closely to reach the ambitious goals set by our leaders." Warm conversation with FM Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen of Bangladesh. Agreed to hold our Joint Consultative Commission very soon. Will continue to work closely to reach the ambitious goals set by our leaders. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 7, 2020 × Earlier today, the Bangladesh Parliament has unanimously adopted a condolence motion on former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, who passed away last month. Also read: ‘Mr Indispensable’ breathes his last According to the High Commission of India in Bangladesh, the motion said the people of Bangladesh will remember Mukherjee as a "true patriot". "Bangladesh @jatiyoshangsad unanimously adopted a condolence motion on the demise of late Pranab Mukherjee, adding, 'The people of Bangladesh will always remember this great eternal leader as a genuine well-wisher of the people of India and Bangladesh and a true patriot'," the High Commission said in a tweet on Monday. Mukherjee breathed his last at a Delhi hospital on August 31. He was 84.

India, Bangladesh to hold Joint Consultative Commission soon: Jaishankar

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a stopover in Iran this week as part of his key Moscow visit. During the Iran stopover, he could meet his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif, details of which are still being decided.&nbsp;Javad Zarif had visited India earlier this year to be part Raisina Dialogue.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/french-defence-minister-florence-parly-to-visit-india-to-attend-rafale-induction-ceremony-325751" hreflang="en">French Defence Minister Florence Parly to visit India to attend Rafale induction ceremony</a>

EAM will be visiting Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO meet.&nbsp;India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Iran is an observer member of the grouping.

This will be the 2nd time any top Indian minister is visiting Iran within a week. Defence minister Rajnath Singh had visited Iran over the weekend while coming from Russia and meet with Iran's Defence Minister&nbsp;Brigadier General Amir Hatami.

During Rajnath Singh's visit, Afghanistan and regional security were discussed in over one hour long bilateral.

The high-level visits by India to Iran are been considered as a major reached out by New Delhi to a country it considers part of its extended neighbourhood. Iran plays an important role in India's connectivity project via Chabahar port that provides it link to Afghanistan and wider Central Asian region.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a stopover in Iran this week as part of his key Moscow visit. During the Iran stopover, he could meet his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif, details of which are still being decided.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will make a stopover in Iran this week as part of his key Moscow visit. During the Iran stopover, he could meet his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif, details of which are still being decided. Javad Zarif had visited India earlier this year to be part Raisina Dialogue. Also read: French Defence Minister Florence Parly to visit India to attend Rafale induction ceremony EAM will be visiting Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO meet. India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Iran is an observer member of the grouping. This will be the 2nd time any top Indian minister is visiting Iran within a week. Defence minister Rajnath Singh had visited Iran over the weekend while coming from Russia and meet with Iran's Defence Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami. During Rajnath Singh's visit, Afghanistan and regional security were discussed in over one hour long bilateral. The high-level visits by India to Iran are been considered as a major reached out by New Delhi to a country it considers part of its extended neighbourhood. Iran plays an important role in India's connectivity project via Chabahar port that provides it link to Afghanistan and wider Central Asian region.

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday slammed Pakistan and without taking the name of the country said, "states that have turned the production of terrorists into a primary export have attempted, by dint of bland denials, to paint themselves as victims of terror."

His comments were in context to the urgent need for adoption of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism(CCIT) that calls on a common definition of terrorism but haven't made much progress as "membership of the UN still wrestling with certain foundational principles" EAM said.

CCIT was proposed by India in 1996 and in his first address to United Nations General assembly since becoming the PM in 2014, PM Modi called for early adoption of the convention.

EAM Jaishankar who was speaking at the 19th Darbari Seth Memorial Lecture also recalled the developments of last week over Pakistani flip- flops on the presence of United Nations listed terrorists Masood Azhar and Dawood Ibrahim via its own SRO--Statutory regulatory order.

He said, "we have seen last week, sustained pressure through international mechanisms to prevent the movement of funds for terror groups and their front agencies can work."

Explaining, without referring to Islamabad that "it has eventually compelled a state complicit in aiding, abetting, training and directing terror groups and associated criminal syndicates" &nbsp;to "grudgingly acknowledge the presence of wanted terrorists and organized crime leaders on its territory."

Pakistan after issuing the SRO that listed the United Nations terror list of 1267 committee came out with a clarification that it doesn't mean acceptance of terrorist on its territory or territories occupied by it. The 1267 UN list, which has maximum number of terrorists from Pakistan also mentions the name of Masood Azhar responsible for Pulwama terror attack and Dawood Ibrahim the mastermind of 1993 Mumbai attacks.

While expressing hope that the "struggle against terror and those who aid and abet it is a work in progress", EAM said, "it remains for the international system to create the necessary mechanisms to shut down the structures that support and enable terrorism, whether in South Asia or across the globe. "

He drew parallels between terrorism and the current ongoing COVID-19 pandemic saying, "terrorism was not born on 9/11, nor has the Covid-19 been the only pandemic."

Elaborating, that "terrorism is a cancer that potentially affects everyone, just as pandemics potentially impact upon all humanity" and yet "in both cases, globalized focused responses to either challenge have tended to emerge only when there has been sufficient disruption created by a ‘spectacular’ event. " 
&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday slammed Pakistan and without taking the name of the country said, "states that have turned the production of terrorists into a primary export have attempted, by dint of bland denials, to paint themselves as victims of terror.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday slammed Pakistan and without taking the name of the country said, "states that have turned the production of terrorists into a primary export have attempted, by dint of bland denials, to paint themselves as victims of terror." His comments were in context to the urgent need for adoption of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism(CCIT) that calls on a common definition of terrorism but haven't made much progress as "membership of the UN still wrestling with certain foundational principles" EAM said. CCIT was proposed by India in 1996 and in his first address to United Nations General assembly since becoming the PM in 2014, PM Modi called for early adoption of the convention. EAM Jaishankar who was speaking at the 19th Darbari Seth Memorial Lecture also recalled the developments of last week over Pakistani flip- flops on the presence of United Nations listed terrorists Masood Azhar and Dawood Ibrahim via its own SRO--Statutory regulatory order. He said, "we have seen last week, sustained pressure through international mechanisms to prevent the movement of funds for terror groups and their front agencies can work." Explaining, without referring to Islamabad that "it has eventually compelled a state complicit in aiding, abetting, training and directing terror groups and associated criminal syndicates" to "grudgingly acknowledge the presence of wanted terrorists and organized crime leaders on its territory." Pakistan after issuing the SRO that listed the United Nations terror list of 1267 committee came out with a clarification that it doesn't mean acceptance of terrorist on its territory or territories occupied by it. The 1267 UN list, which has maximum number of terrorists from Pakistan also mentions the name of Masood Azhar responsible for Pulwama terror attack and Dawood Ibrahim the mastermind of 1993 Mumbai attacks. While expressing hope that the "struggle against terror and those who aid and abet it is a work in progress", EAM said, "it remains for the international system to create the necessary mechanisms to shut down the structures that support and enable terrorism, whether in South Asia or across the globe. " He drew parallels between terrorism and the current ongoing COVID-19 pandemic saying, "terrorism was not born on 9/11, nor has the Covid-19 been the only pandemic." Elaborating, that "terrorism is a cancer that potentially affects everyone, just as pandemics potentially impact upon all humanity" and yet "in both cases, globalized focused responses to either challenge have tended to emerge only when there has been sufficient disruption created by a ‘spectacular’ event. "

Jaishankar slams Pakistan; says 'exporter' of terror painting themselves as 'victims' of terror

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the collaboration to attain self-reliance. He addressed a virtual gathering India @75. Watch report.

EAM S Jaishankar speaks on technology, China at India @75 Summit

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said India and China have "huge premium" in reaching "understanding" and given the size of both countries, "the world has a lot riding on".&nbsp;

Speaking at a virtual event called 'India at 75&nbsp;summit' organised by industry body CII, Jaishankar said,"we are neighbours, at least as the modern state we are neighbours...What it does is, its a huge premium in reaching some kind of equilibrium or understanding between the two, not just in my interest but in their interest too and how to do that is one of the big challenges we face and someone at their&nbsp;&nbsp;end will be saying something."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-iaf-to-maintain-very-high-level-of-alertness-along-lac-sources-318927" hreflang="en">Indian Army, IAF to maintain very high-level of alertness along LAC: Sources</a>

''The world has a lot riding on us, giving our size and impact.. there are problems, problems are laid out and very central to our foreign policy calculations," he added.

India-China ties suffered a blow after the Galwan incident in eastern Ladakh of&nbsp;June 15 when forces from both sides were involved in a violent clash. India lost 20 of its soldiers, while China accepted it suffered casualties never came out with a number.

Drawing parallels between India and China, EAM explained, &nbsp;"We are a neighbour of China, China is already the second largest economy of the world and we will one day be the third largest economy. We are demographically unique countries--in the billion-plus category. We happen to be neighbours, the period of our difficulties was similar... the period of our re-emergence in international politics is also not that far apart. We are seeing a parallel but the differential rise of two&nbsp;countries."

On current global dynamics,&nbsp;Jaishankar called for "issue-based" criteria for partnership given "nature of the world is of overlapping interest". 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said India and China have "huge premium" in reaching "understanding" and given the size of both countries, "the world has a lot riding on".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said India and China have "huge premium" in reaching "understanding" and given the size of both countries, "the world has a lot riding on". Speaking at a virtual event called 'India at 75 summit' organised by industry body CII, Jaishankar said,"we are neighbours, at least as the modern state we are neighbours...What it does is, its a huge premium in reaching some kind of equilibrium or understanding between the two, not just in my interest but in their interest too and how to do that is one of the big challenges we face and someone at their end will be saying something." Also read: Indian Army, IAF to maintain very high-level of alertness along LAC: Sources ''The world has a lot riding on us, giving our size and impact.. there are problems, problems are laid out and very central to our foreign policy calculations," he added. India-China ties suffered a blow after the Galwan incident in eastern Ladakh of June 15 when forces from both sides were involved in a violent clash. India lost 20 of its soldiers, while China accepted it suffered casualties never came out with a number. Drawing parallels between India and China, EAM explained, "We are a neighbour of China, China is already the second largest economy of the world and we will one day be the third largest economy. We are demographically unique countries--in the billion-plus category. We happen to be neighbours, the period of our difficulties was similar... the period of our re-emergence in international politics is also not that far apart. We are seeing a parallel but the differential rise of two countries." On current global dynamics, Jaishankar called for "issue-based" criteria for partnership given "nature of the world is of overlapping interest".

India-China ties: Huge premium in reaching an understanding, says Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call&nbsp;to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than&nbsp;850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally.

The two leaders discussed about the combined and coordinated efforts by India and the US. Mike Pompeo focused on the importance of close cooperation between the US, India and their mutual allies to overcome this global crisis, according to Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson of the US State Department.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> about the importance of the U.S.-India partnership to advance international peace and prosperity. We look forward to the Quadrilateral consultation and the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial.<a href="https://t.co/KMIBwklu83">https://t.co/KMIBwklu83</a>
— Cale Brown (@StateDeputySPOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeputySPOX/status/1291440598491320327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pompeo also added that&nbsp;US' unwavering commitment to work with India to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, the spokesperson said in a readout of the call.

This was the second call between the two leaders since the start of the pandemic.

Before the call, the US President Donald Trump extended the social distancing guidelines further and urged people to exercise caution as he believes the next 30 days will be very crucial for Americans with respect to the novel coronavirus.

(With inputs from PTI)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than 850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than 850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally. The two leaders discussed about the combined and coordinated efforts by India and the US. Mike Pompeo focused on the importance of close cooperation between the US, India and their mutual allies to overcome this global crisis, according to Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson of the US State Department. .@SecPompeo spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar about the importance of the U.S.-India partnership to advance international peace and prosperity. We look forward to the Quadrilateral consultation and the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial.https://t.co/KMIBwklu83 — Cale Brown (@StateDeputySPOX) August 6, 2020 × Pompeo also added that US' unwavering commitment to work with India to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, the spokesperson said in a readout of the call. This was the second call between the two leaders since the start of the pandemic. Before the call, the US President Donald Trump extended the social distancing guidelines further and urged people to exercise caution as he believes the next 30 days will be very crucial for Americans with respect to the novel coronavirus. (With inputs from PTI)

S Jaishankar and Mike Pompeo discuss COVID-19 approach over phone

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday spoke at India Global Week 2020. Watch this video to know what he said.

S. Jaishankar speaks at India Global Week 2020: Post pandemic world will be difficult

Amid the escalating border row between India and China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called on countries to respect international law and recognising legitimate interest of partners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-ric-meeting-jaishankar-says-indias-role-in-world-war-ii-not-acknowledged-recalls-dr-kotnis-307906">Also read: At RIC meeting, Jaishankar says India's role in World War-II not acknowledged; recalls Dr Kotnis</a> 
 
In a veiled attack at China against the backdrop of a tense border stand-off, Jaishankar said that "Respecting international law, recognizing the legitimate interests of partners, supporting multilateralism and promoting common good is the only way of building a durable world order. I thank Russia for convening this meeting and look forward to our discussions.”

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Leading voices of world must be exemplars in every way.Respecting international law,recognising legitimate interest of partners,supporting multilateralism&amp;promoting common good is only way to build a durable world order: EAM at virtual meeting of RIC foreign ministers <a href="https://t.co/3ERzlVu7Ma">pic.twitter.com/3ERzlVu7Ma</a>
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Earlier at the Russia, India and China (RIC) meeting, he said that "We welcome the special meeting, the victory over Nazism and fascism with more than 2 million Indians who fought the war. The medical mission of Dr Kotnis worked in China. India's contribution was not given proper acknowledgement and this injustice has to be corrected."

Dr Kotnis was one of the five Indian physicians dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the second Sin-Japanese war in 1938.

"Beyond this reality, UN began with 50 members, now it has more than 193, its decision-making cannot be in denial on this reality," Jaishankar asserted.

"We must realise the changing realities," he said. India's external affairs minister asserted that when the Indian contingent marches at the Red Square on Wednesday during Russia's victory celebrations over Nazi Germany in 1945, "it will be the difference that we made."

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the escalating border row between India and China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called on countries to respect international law and recognising legitimate interest of partners.

Amid the escalating border row between India and China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called on countries to respect international law and recognising legitimate interest of partners. Also read: At RIC meeting, Jaishankar says India's role in World War-II not acknowledged; recalls Dr Kotnis In a veiled attack at China against the backdrop of a tense border stand-off, Jaishankar said that "Respecting international law, recognizing the legitimate interests of partners, supporting multilateralism and promoting common good is the only way of building a durable world order. I thank Russia for convening this meeting and look forward to our discussions.” #WATCH Leading voices of world must be exemplars in every way.Respecting international law,recognising legitimate interest of partners,supporting multilateralism&promoting common good is only way to build a durable world order: EAM at virtual meeting of RIC foreign ministers pic.twitter.com/3ERzlVu7Ma — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2020 × Earlier at the Russia, India and China (RIC) meeting, he said that "We welcome the special meeting, the victory over Nazism and fascism with more than 2 million Indians who fought the war. The medical mission of Dr Kotnis worked in China. India's contribution was not given proper acknowledgement and this injustice has to be corrected." Dr Kotnis was one of the five Indian physicians dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the second Sin-Japanese war in 1938. "Beyond this reality, UN began with 50 members, now it has more than 193, its decision-making cannot be in denial on this reality," Jaishankar asserted. "We must realise the changing realities," he said. India's external affairs minister asserted that when the Indian contingent marches at the Red Square on Wednesday during Russia's victory celebrations over Nazi Germany in 1945, "it will be the difference that we made." (With inputs from agencies)

Need to respect ethos of international law, says Jaishankar in a meet with China, Russia

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will join his Chinese and Russian counterparts at a virtual conference of the Russia-India-China trilateral on Tuesday, against the backdrop of New Delhi's frayed ties with Beijing over the Galwan Valley clashes.

As the June 15 incident triggered fears of fresh confrontation between troops of India and China, Russia is learnt to have reached out to both the countries, urging them to resolve the border row through talks.

People familiar with the matter said India was initially reluctant to join the Russia-India-China trilateral foreign ministers' meeting but agreed to participate in it following a request from Moscow, the host of the conference.

Interestingly, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Russia on a three-day visit to attend a military parade in Moscow on June 24 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of victory of the Russian people in the Second World War.

Officials said he will have a series of meetings with top Russian military brass. A senior Chinese leader is also expected to be in Moscow to attend the parade.

India lost 20 Army personnel in the violent hand-to-hand clashes with Chinese troops in Galwan Valley on June 15, in the biggest ever confrontation between the two sides after a gap of 45 years.

In a telephonic conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi June 17, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called the clashes a "premeditated" action by Chinese PLA and said they will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relationship.

Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava on Thursday confirmed Jaishankar's participation at the RIC meeting.

He said the meeting will deliberate on the coronavirus pandemic as well as issues relating to challenges to the global security and financial stability.

It is unlikely that the border standoff between India and China will figure in the meeting as bilateral issues are usually not discussed under the trilateral format, sources said, citing convention.

"It will be a good opportunity for all the three countries to come together and discuss regional issues in order to synchronise our views to contribute to support regional stability," a senior diplomat told PTI last week on the condition of anonymity.

Russia has already said that India and China should resolve the border dispute through talks and that a constructive relationship between the two countries was important for regional stability.

The three foreign ministers are also expected to deliberate extensively on the evolving political situation in Afghanistan after the US inked a peace deal with the Taliban in February.

The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing the curtain on Washington's 18-year war in the country.

The meeting of the RIC foreign ministers is also expected to delve into key connectivity projects in the region including the implementation of the 7,200 km-long International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) linking India, Iran, Afghanistan and Central Asia with Europe. 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will join his Chinese and Russian counterparts at a virtual conference of the Russia-India-China trilateral on Tuesday, against the backdrop of New Delhi's frayed ties with Beijing over the Galwan Valley clashes.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will join his Chinese and Russian counterparts at a virtual conference of the Russia-India-China trilateral on Tuesday, against the backdrop of New Delhi's frayed ties with Beijing over the Galwan Valley clashes. As the June 15 incident triggered fears of fresh confrontation between troops of India and China, Russia is learnt to have reached out to both the countries, urging them to resolve the border row through talks. People familiar with the matter said India was initially reluctant to join the Russia-India-China trilateral foreign ministers' meeting but agreed to participate in it following a request from Moscow, the host of the conference. Interestingly, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday left for Russia on a three-day visit to attend a military parade in Moscow on June 24 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of victory of the Russian people in the Second World War. Officials said he will have a series of meetings with top Russian military brass. A senior Chinese leader is also expected to be in Moscow to attend the parade. India lost 20 Army personnel in the violent hand-to-hand clashes with Chinese troops in Galwan Valley on June 15, in the biggest ever confrontation between the two sides after a gap of 45 years. In a telephonic conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi June 17, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called the clashes a "premeditated" action by Chinese PLA and said they will have a "serious impact" on the bilateral relationship. Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava on Thursday confirmed Jaishankar's participation at the RIC meeting. He said the meeting will deliberate on the coronavirus pandemic as well as issues relating to challenges to the global security and financial stability. It is unlikely that the border standoff between India and China will figure in the meeting as bilateral issues are usually not discussed under the trilateral format, sources said, citing convention. "It will be a good opportunity for all the three countries to come together and discuss regional issues in order to synchronise our views to contribute to support regional stability," a senior diplomat told PTI last week on the condition of anonymity. Russia has already said that India and China should resolve the border dispute through talks and that a constructive relationship between the two countries was important for regional stability. The three foreign ministers are also expected to deliberate extensively on the evolving political situation in Afghanistan after the US inked a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing the curtain on Washington's 18-year war in the country. The meeting of the RIC foreign ministers is also expected to delve into key connectivity projects in the region including the implementation of the 7,200 km-long International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) linking India, Iran, Afghanistan and Central Asia with Europe.

Jaishankar to join Chinese, Russian foreign ministers at RIC meet on June 23

India on Friday listed out its priorities as it is all set to be elected as a non-permanent seat for United Nations Security Council from January 2021 saying that it will help "overcome faultline" in a world in which "normal process of international governance" has come under "strain as frictions have occurred".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar while launching the brochure outlining India's priority as part of a campaign for UNSC elected seat said, " As a rule-abiding democracy and as a positive contributor to the security of the global commons in India will work constructively with partners to overcome old and new faultlines and will offer an innovative and inclusive solution".

Explaining, "India can play a positive global role and we have always been the voice of reason. We advocate dialogue consultations &amp; fairness".

The elections for the 5 non-permanent seats of United Nations Security Council will take place on 17th June with India being one of the candidates. India will be standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat which is currently held by Indonesia and had announced its candidacy for the the2021-2022 term in November 2013. It was endorsed by the Asia Pacific group in June 2019.

Highlighting the concerns regarding the ongoing COVID crisis, EAM said, "COVID pandemic &amp; its grave economic repercussion will test the world like never before" and India will, "will help developing countries obtain the necessary support to recover the COVID pandemic". 
&nbsp; 
The Priorities Paper or the brochure issued by India lists 5 main priorities including an Effective response to international terrorism &amp; reforming the multilateral system which remains "unreformed &amp; under-represented". New Delhi's approach will be guided by "Five S’s”, as set out by the Prime Minister which is Samman (Respect), Samvad (Dialogue), Sahyog (cooperation), Shanti (Peace), to create conditions for universal &amp; Samriddhi (Prosperity).

All in All 7 member states--Canada, Djibouti, India, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway are in the fray. For one seat of Africa--Djibouti and Kenya are standing, for 2 seats of western Europe and others--3 countries, Canada, Ireland and Norway standing. For the Asia Pacific and Latin America and Caribbean seat--India and Mexico stand unopposed. 
&nbsp; 
As the founding member of the world body, India has served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. India’s overall objective during its tenure in the UN Security Council starting next year will be the achievement of N.O.R.M.S: a New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System.

India on Friday listed out its priorities as it is all set to be elected as a non-permanent seat for United Nations Security Council from January 2021 saying that it will help "overcome faultline" in a world in which "normal process of international governance" has come under "strain as frictions have occurred".

India on Friday listed out its priorities as it is all set to be elected as a non-permanent seat for United Nations Security Council from January 2021 saying that it will help "overcome faultline" in a world in which "normal process of international governance" has come under "strain as frictions have occurred". External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar while launching the brochure outlining India's priority as part of a campaign for UNSC elected seat said, " As a rule-abiding democracy and as a positive contributor to the security of the global commons in India will work constructively with partners to overcome old and new faultlines and will offer an innovative and inclusive solution". Explaining, "India can play a positive global role and we have always been the voice of reason. We advocate dialogue consultations & fairness". The elections for the 5 non-permanent seats of United Nations Security Council will take place on 17th June with India being one of the candidates. India will be standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat which is currently held by Indonesia and had announced its candidacy for the the2021-2022 term in November 2013. It was endorsed by the Asia Pacific group in June 2019. Highlighting the concerns regarding the ongoing COVID crisis, EAM said, "COVID pandemic & its grave economic repercussion will test the world like never before" and India will, "will help developing countries obtain the necessary support to recover the COVID pandemic". The Priorities Paper or the brochure issued by India lists 5 main priorities including an Effective response to international terrorism & reforming the multilateral system which remains "unreformed & under-represented". New Delhi's approach will be guided by "Five S’s”, as set out by the Prime Minister which is Samman (Respect), Samvad (Dialogue), Sahyog (cooperation), Shanti (Peace), to create conditions for universal & Samriddhi (Prosperity). All in All 7 member states--Canada, Djibouti, India, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway are in the fray. For one seat of Africa--Djibouti and Kenya are standing, for 2 seats of western Europe and others--3 countries, Canada, Ireland and Norway standing. For the Asia Pacific and Latin America and Caribbean seat--India and Mexico stand unopposed. As the founding member of the world body, India has served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. India’s overall objective during its tenure in the UN Security Council starting next year will be the achievement of N.O.R.M.S: a New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System.

India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC

The External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday condemned the terrorist attack on a Gurdwara in Afghanistan that left 27 killed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-on-gurudwara-in-kabul-kills-27-injures-8-288442">Also read: Attack on Gurudwara in Kabul kills 27, injures 8</a> 
 
Calling the terror attack an act of cowardice Dr S Jaishankar assured that the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan is in continuous touch with the families of those killed and injured.

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Understandable grief and anger at the cowardly terrorist attack on Gurudwara in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a>. Our Embassy <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbKabul</a> is in continuous touch with the families of those killed and injured.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1243030173429055488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One of those who died in the attack is Tian Singh, a 71-year old Indian citizen from Delhi. Family members of Mr Singh have demanded that his mortal remains should be brought to India.

The foreign minister also assured that the embassy is working on the return of mortal remains of Tian Singh.&nbsp;

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Medical opinion against moving injured at this stage. Embassy <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbKabul</a> is working on the return of mortal remains of Shri Tian Singh. Will keep you updated.<a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HardeepSPuri</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HarsimratBadal_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarsimratBadal_</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1243030175945617409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday, a terror attack on a Gurudwara in Kabul, Afghanistan had left 27 people dead. Eight people have also been wounded. All four terrorists have been neutralised by Afghan security forces.

Based on information received by the Afghan Interior Ministry, the attack was carried out by suicide bombers.

Soon after the attack, the Ministry of External Affairs, India, extended condolences to the loss suffered by the Sikh community.

The External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday condemned the terrorist attack on a Gurdwara in Afghanistan that left 27 killed. Also read: Attack on Gurudwara in Kabul kills 27, injures 8 Calling the terror attack an act of cowardice Dr S Jaishankar assured that the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan is in continuous touch with the families of those killed and injured.

The External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday condemned the terrorist attack on a Gurdwara in Afghanistan that left 27 killed. Also read: Attack on Gurudwara in Kabul kills 27, injures 8 Calling the terror attack an act of cowardice Dr S Jaishankar assured that the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan is in continuous touch with the families of those killed and injured. Understandable grief and anger at the cowardly terrorist attack on Gurudwara in #Kabul. Our Embassy @IndianEmbKabul is in continuous touch with the families of those killed and injured. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 26, 2020 × One of those who died in the attack is Tian Singh, a 71-year old Indian citizen from Delhi. Family members of Mr Singh have demanded that his mortal remains should be brought to India. The foreign minister also assured that the embassy is working on the return of mortal remains of Tian Singh. Medical opinion against moving injured at this stage. Embassy @IndianEmbKabul is working on the return of mortal remains of Shri Tian Singh. Will keep you updated.@HardeepSPuri @HarsimratBadal_ @capt_amarinder — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 26, 2020 × Yesterday, a terror attack on a Gurudwara in Kabul, Afghanistan had left 27 people dead. Eight people have also been wounded. All four terrorists have been neutralised by Afghan security forces. Based on information received by the Afghan Interior Ministry, the attack was carried out by suicide bombers. Soon after the attack, the Ministry of External Affairs, India, extended condolences to the loss suffered by the Sikh community.

S Jaishankar condemns Kabul Gurudwara attack, says working on return of mortal remains of Tian Singh

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic bilateral conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on efforts carried out by both countries against the coronavirus pandemic which has killed over 18,000 people worldwide.

During the conversation, Wang Yi also urged to not describe the coronavirus as "Chinese virus", &nbsp;saying that it could lead to stigmatisation of China and would be "detrimental to the international cooperation."&nbsp;

"Wang Yi said it's not acceptable and detrimental to international cooperation to label the virus and stigmatise China, hope India oppose such a narrow mindset. Dr Jaishankar agreed not to label the virus and the international community should send a strong signal of solidarity," the Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong said in a tweet on Tuesday evening.

The coronavirus's which started in Wuhan, China in December 2019, has so far affected people in over 200 countries globally, with over 400,000 infections worldwide. &nbsp;Since the first case emerged from China, the virus has often been referred to as "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan virus" in media.

However, Chinese government argues that the virus may have originated in Central China but since there is no proof of it, China insists on not calling the coronavirus as "Chinese virus".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic bilateral conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on efforts carried out by both countries against the coronavirus pandemic which has killed over 18,000 people worldwide.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic bilateral conversation with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on efforts carried out by both countries against the coronavirus pandemic which has killed over 18,000 people worldwide. During the conversation, Wang Yi also urged to not describe the coronavirus as "Chinese virus", saying that it could lead to stigmatisation of China and would be "detrimental to the international cooperation." "Wang Yi said it's not acceptable and detrimental to international cooperation to label the virus and stigmatise China, hope India oppose such a narrow mindset. Dr Jaishankar agreed not to label the virus and the international community should send a strong signal of solidarity," the Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong said in a tweet on Tuesday evening. The coronavirus's which started in Wuhan, China in December 2019, has so far affected people in over 200 countries globally, with over 400,000 infections worldwide. Since the first case emerged from China, the virus has often been referred to as "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan virus" in media. However, Chinese government argues that the virus may have originated in Central China but since there is no proof of it, China insists on not calling the coronavirus as "Chinese virus".

'Not acceptable': China urges India to not call coronavirus the 'Chinese virus'

Two hundred and thirty-four Indian evacuees from coronavirus-hit Iran, worst affected country in the Middle East, who arrived in the national capital on early Sunday morning, have been quarantined at an Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer.

"Wellness Centre at Jaisalmer is a fully equipped facility to help Indian citizens undertake mandatory quarantine period under the supervision of skilled medical authorities. Soldiers have volunteered to provide care and support to our countrymen returning from overseas," the Army said.

The stranded Indians, including 131 students and 103 pilgrims, were airlifted by Iran's Mahan Air flight.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar thanked the Iranian authorities for facilitating the evacuations of Indians."234 Indians stranded in Iran have arrived in India; including 131 students and 103 pilgrims. Thank you Ambassador @dhamugaddam and @India_in_Iran team for your efforts. Thank Iranian authorities", He wrote on Twitter earlier.

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234 Indians stranded in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> have arrived in India; including 131 students and 103 pilgrims. 
Thank you Ambassador <a href="https://twitter.com/dhamugaddam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dhamugaddam</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/India_in_Iran?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@India_in_Iran</a> team for your efforts. Thank Iranian authorities.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1238945681496133632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Iran is among the worst affected country from the coronavirus with 12,729 cases and 611 deaths so far.

In the past few days, India has carried out several evacuations of Indians nationals from Iran.

This was the third batch of Indians arriving from Iran. The second batch of 44 Indian pilgrims had arrived from Iran on Friday.

The first batch consisting of 58 nationals were brought back in a C17 military transport aircraft on Tuesday followed by another evacuation of 44 individuals on Friday.

Meanwhile, 84 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported so far from across India.

Two hundred and thirty-four Indian evacuees from coronavirus-hit Iran, worst affected country in the Middle East, who arrived in the national capital on early Sunday morning, have been quarantined at an Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer.

Two hundred and thirty-four Indian evacuees from coronavirus-hit Iran, worst affected country in the Middle East, who arrived in the national capital on early Sunday morning, have been quarantined at an Indian Army Wellness Centre in Jaisalmer. "Wellness Centre at Jaisalmer is a fully equipped facility to help Indian citizens undertake mandatory quarantine period under the supervision of skilled medical authorities. Soldiers have volunteered to provide care and support to our countrymen returning from overseas," the Army said. The stranded Indians, including 131 students and 103 pilgrims, were airlifted by Iran's Mahan Air flight. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar thanked the Iranian authorities for facilitating the evacuations of Indians."234 Indians stranded in Iran have arrived in India; including 131 students and 103 pilgrims. Thank you Ambassador @dhamugaddam and @India_in_Iran team for your efforts. Thank Iranian authorities", He wrote on Twitter earlier. 234 Indians stranded in #Iran have arrived in India; including 131 students and 103 pilgrims. Thank you Ambassador @dhamugaddam and @India_in_Iran team for your efforts. Thank Iranian authorities. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 14, 2020 × Iran is among the worst affected country from the coronavirus with 12,729 cases and 611 deaths so far. In the past few days, India has carried out several evacuations of Indians nationals from Iran. This was the third batch of Indians arriving from Iran. The second batch of 44 Indian pilgrims had arrived from Iran on Friday. The first batch consisting of 58 nationals were brought back in a C17 military transport aircraft on Tuesday followed by another evacuation of 44 individuals on Friday. Meanwhile, 84 positive cases of coronavirus have been reported so far from across India.

234 Indian evacuees from Iran quarantined at Army facility in Jaisalmer

&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said the initial focus is to bring back Indian pilgrims stranded in Iran, which is grappling with cases of coronavirus.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-announces-multiple-visa-restrictions-and-updates-its-travel-advisory-285798">Indian government announces multiple visa restrictions and updates its travel advisory</a>

The outbreak of coronavirus is a "matter of concern" and "we need to respond responsibly", he told Lok Sabha as he spoke on the current situation.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-crisis-mea-appoints-nodal-person-to-coordinate-efforts-285680">Coronavirus crisis: MEA appoints nodal person to coordinate efforts&nbsp;</a>

He said around 6,000 Indians are stranded in Iran, including 1,100 pilgrims from Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir.

There are also around 300 students there, he added.

The "initial focus is on bringing back pilgrims, mostly stranded in Qom", he said, adding the government is also working with Indian authorities to look at the possibility of operating limited commercial flights.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said the initial focus is to bring back Indian pilgrims stranded in Iran, which is grappling with cases of coronavirus.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said the initial focus is to bring back Indian pilgrims stranded in Iran, which is grappling with cases of coronavirus. Also read: Indian government announces multiple visa restrictions and updates its travel advisory The outbreak of coronavirus is a "matter of concern" and "we need to respond responsibly", he told Lok Sabha as he spoke on the current situation. Also read: Coronavirus crisis: MEA appoints nodal person to coordinate efforts He said around 6,000 Indians are stranded in Iran, including 1,100 pilgrims from Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir. There are also around 300 students there, he added. The "initial focus is on bringing back pilgrims, mostly stranded in Qom", he said, adding the government is also working with Indian authorities to look at the possibility of operating limited commercial flights.

COVID19: Initial focus to bring back Indian pilgrims stranded in Iran, says EAM Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said.

They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-maldives-for-indian-ocean-conference-246858">S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference</a>

Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-pay-two-day-visit-to-nepal-from-august-21-243944">S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21</a>

While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran.

The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city. Also Read: S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said. Also Read: S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran. The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

EAM Jaishankar arrives on surprise visit to Kashmir

India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar calls UNHRC for criticism over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, said that its director was wrong earlier too and one must look at the previous UN record to handle it.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to UNHRC: No country in the world says everybody is welcome

The government is collaborating with the Iranian authorities to set up a screening process for the return of Indians stranded in Iran in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-close-to-88000-people-infected-more-than-3000-dead-globally-283606" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally</a>

Jaishankar's assurance came after appeals from several quarters, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor for the government's intervention over the issue of stranded Indians there.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-evacuate-citizens-from-iran-over-coronavirus-fears-283520">India to evacuate citizens from Iran over coronavirus fears</a>

"Working on the issue of Indians in Iran anxious to return due to COVID19. Have seen many tweets in this regard. We are collaborating with the Iranian authorities to set up a screening process for the return of Indians," Jaishankar said in a tweet.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-death-toll-rises-as-switzerland-reports-first-coronavirus-case-282737">Iran death toll rises as Switzerland reports first coronavirus case</a>

"Am asking our Ambassador Gaddam Dharmendra to keep all those concerned updated of the progress. Am also tracking this personally," Jaishankar said in the tweet, tagging the Kerala CM office, Office of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami, Tharoor, NCP leader Supriya Sule and MoS MEA V Muraleedharan.

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Earlier, Muraleedharan had said the government has received reports of Indians including fishermen stuck in Iran due to the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Tehran is in touch with local authorities on the issue.

Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra had on Saturday said the authorities are working to facilitate the return of Indians who wish to go back home and discussions were underway with authorities.

Several political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have appealed to the Centre to evacuate the people of the Union Territory, including students, who were stranded in Iran.

Iran's health ministry on Sunday reported 11 new deaths from the novel coronavirus and 385 infections, bringing the overall number of lives lost to 54 and cases to 978.

Earlier, the Indian embassy in Tehran had issued an advisory for Indians residing there and assured them that they were closely monitoring the situation.

India had also issued a travel advisory on February 26 to avoid non-essential travel to Iran due to incidence of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) infections.

In addition, people coming from Iran or having such travel history since 10 February may be quarantined for 14 days on arrival to India, the advisory said.

The National Conference's Member of Parliament from Anantnag Hasnain Masoodi had also said he spoke to the Minister of External Affairs about the safe return of the stranded Kashmiri students in Iran following the outbreak of the deadly virus there.

Former Union minister and senior Congress leader Saif-ud-din Soz and former finance minister Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari had also appealed to the Centre to evacuate the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the students and businessmen, stranded in Iran.

The government is collaborating with the Iranian authorities to set up a screening process for the return of Indians stranded in Iran in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday.

The government is collaborating with the Iranian authorities to set up a screening process for the return of Indians stranded in Iran in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday. Also read: Coronavirus: Close to 88,000 people infected, more than 3,000 dead globally Jaishankar's assurance came after appeals from several quarters, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor for the government's intervention over the issue of stranded Indians there. Also read: India to evacuate citizens from Iran over coronavirus fears "Working on the issue of Indians in Iran anxious to return due to COVID19. Have seen many tweets in this regard. We are collaborating with the Iranian authorities to set up a screening process for the return of Indians," Jaishankar said in a tweet. Also read: Iran death toll rises as Switzerland reports first coronavirus case "Am asking our Ambassador Gaddam Dharmendra to keep all those concerned updated of the progress. Am also tracking this personally," Jaishankar said in the tweet, tagging the Kerala CM office, Office of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami, Tharoor, NCP leader Supriya Sule and MoS MEA V Muraleedharan. × Earlier, Muraleedharan had said the government has received reports of Indians including fishermen stuck in Iran due to the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Tehran is in touch with local authorities on the issue. Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra had on Saturday said the authorities are working to facilitate the return of Indians who wish to go back home and discussions were underway with authorities. Several political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have appealed to the Centre to evacuate the people of the Union Territory, including students, who were stranded in Iran. Iran's health ministry on Sunday reported 11 new deaths from the novel coronavirus and 385 infections, bringing the overall number of lives lost to 54 and cases to 978. Earlier, the Indian embassy in Tehran had issued an advisory for Indians residing there and assured them that they were closely monitoring the situation. India had also issued a travel advisory on February 26 to avoid non-essential travel to Iran due to incidence of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) infections. In addition, people coming from Iran or having such travel history since 10 February may be quarantined for 14 days on arrival to India, the advisory said. The National Conference's Member of Parliament from Anantnag Hasnain Masoodi had also said he spoke to the Minister of External Affairs about the safe return of the stranded Kashmiri students in Iran following the outbreak of the deadly virus there. Former Union minister and senior Congress leader Saif-ud-din Soz and former finance minister Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari had also appealed to the Centre to evacuate the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the students and businessmen, stranded in Iran.

Government working with Iran to bring home stranded Indians: Jaishankar

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany.

During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.&nbsp;

"Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter.

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Good to see <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSC2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSC2020</a>. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>’s visit. <a href="https://t.co/msiifvLC0F">pic.twitter.com/msiifvLC0F</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1228626222055378945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nancy Pelosi's&nbsp;&nbsp;"consistent support" to India-US ties has always been a great source of strength, sais Jaishankar as he also met the US speaker in Germany.

The Munich Security Conference, being held here from February 14-16, is the world's leading forum for debate on international security policy.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will pay a state visit to India on February 24 and 25 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, it was announced this week.

In addition to New Delhi, Trump will also visit Ahmedabad to address a joint public meeting with Modi at a newly-built stadium.

Trump on his maiden trip to India will also meet the country's top business leaders in New Delhi on February 25, in a bid to push for deeper trade and business relations between the two nations.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany. During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met State Secretary Mike Pompeo on Saturday in Germany. During the meet, both leaders discussed bilateral relations as they met on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. "Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump 's visit," Jaishankar said on Twitter. Good to see @SecPompeo at #MSC2020. Allowed us to take stock of the relationship as we look forward to @realDonaldTrump’s visit. pic.twitter.com/msiifvLC0F — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 15, 2020 × Nancy Pelosi's "consistent support" to India-US ties has always been a great source of strength, sais Jaishankar as he also met the US speaker in Germany. The Munich Security Conference, being held here from February 14-16, is the world's leading forum for debate on international security policy. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will pay a state visit to India on February 24 and 25 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, it was announced this week. In addition to New Delhi, Trump will also visit Ahmedabad to address a joint public meeting with Modi at a newly-built stadium. Trump on his maiden trip to India will also meet the country's top business leaders in New Delhi on February 25, in a bid to push for deeper trade and business relations between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar meets Pompeo, Pelosi on sidelines of Munich Security Conference

Ahead of external affairs minister S Jaishankar's Tunisia visit, Tunisian envoy to India Nejmeddine Lakhal lauded New Delhi role on its partnership with Africa and said his country shares its outlook with India on "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lakhal said as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, Tunisia and India will discuss many things of common interest at the multilateral during Jaishankar's visit.

WION: How do you see the India-Tunisia ties?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: Since the establishment of Diplomatic relations in 1958, ties between our two friendly countries has grown steadily - both on bilateral and multilateral levels. Today, Tunisia and India enjoy warm and cordial relations founded on mutual respect and trust, Common universal values and principals, and shares apprehensions and views on many regional and international issues and challenges, including sustainable development, climate change, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity.&nbsp;

The decisions and recommendations of the 12 sessions of the Tunisian-Indian Joint Committee held in Delhi in October 2017, and the adoption of a visionary “roadmap” on that occasion, are expected to give a new dimension to the Tunisian- Indian partnership in many key sectors and areas of common interest. Today Tunisia-India are stronger, and we are working to make the future even brighter for the benefit of Tunisian and Indian people.

WION: Indian external affairs minister is set to visit Tunisia, what will be the top focus?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: The second official visit of an Indian minister of external affairs to Tunisia since 1958. Dr Jaishankar’s visit to Tunisia will be an ideal opportunity to discuss not only bilateral issues, but also multilateral questions of common interest, in particular in light of Tunisia’s UNSC non-permanent membership in 2020-2021, and India's candidacy to the same seat for 2021-2022.&nbsp;

So, we are looking forward to His Excellency's visit to Tunisia, and for the high-level meetings he will have in Tunisia, including on the “Fifth session of the Bilateral Political Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs” to further boost and diversify the areas and sectors of partnership between our two, and for “the 13 session of Tunisia-India Joint Meeting”, to consolidate coordination and concertation between our two countries on regional and international issues of common interest.

WION: Can we expect a high-level visit from either side?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: Definitely, we are always looking for a high-level visit to India, and 2020 could be the year to have such visits.

WION: How do you see India's development aid, India helping in the establishment of soil, water and tissue testing Laboratory in Tunis?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: The establishment of soil, water and tissue testing laboratory project within the India-Africa Forum Summit is just one of the example of Tunisia-India partnership. There are many other sectors where our cooperation is moving forward, including TICs, energy, biotechnology and sciences. With our firm commitment to increase and promote trade, investment and economic between our countries, I am confident that we will be able to make a huge difference in the years to come.

WION: This year, India-Africa summit will take place, what expectations do you have from the summit and have the preparations begun?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: Yes, the preparations for the next the India-Africa Forum Summit is underway.&nbsp;

We already had a mid-term review meeting of the strategic cooperation framework of Africa-India Forum Summit III in New Delhi from September 11-19 last year. The meeting was attended by representatives from the ministry of external affairs, a delegation from the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and representatives of the African Diplomatic Corps in Delhi.&nbsp;

Many other meetings will take place to make sure and the next summit will be another success. I would to take this opportunity to commend support that India is providing to Africa’s development, and Tunisia looks forward to working closely with India for the success of the next session to be held in India in September, 2020. And given its rich and solid expertise in many development areas, Tunisia is ready to partner with India for the implementation of the “IAFS IV” development projects in the African Francophone region of Africa in particular.

WION: How are both countries, working together to fight the scourge of terrorism?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: Terrorism is a significant threat to our societies, global peace and security, and to our shared values of democracy, justice, and the rule of law. Like India, Tunisia has steadfastly maintained “zero tolerance” on&nbsp;terror and violence and strongly condemns terrorism, that has hit both our countries hard.

Tunisia’s position is firm and unequivocal on terrorism anywhere in line with its national policy and its international commitments. Today, no state is immune from the threat of terrorism. However rich or powerful, no single country can defeat terror alone or face the current challenges posed today by various terrorist&nbsp;entities. Only through a strong and constructive international cooperation that we can effectively deal with this major danger.

WION: You are part of OIC, as member of OIC, do you think India should be part of it?

Nejmeddine Lakhal: This is India’s decision. Only India can reply to this question.

Ahead of external affairs minister S Jaishankar's Tunisia visit, Tunisian envoy to India Nejmeddine Lakhal lauded New Delhi role on its partnership with Africa and said his country shares its outlook with India on "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism.

Ahead of external affairs minister S Jaishankar's Tunisia visit, Tunisian envoy to India Nejmeddine Lakhal lauded New Delhi role on its partnership with Africa and said his country shares its outlook with India on "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lakhal said as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, Tunisia and India will discuss many things of common interest at the multilateral during Jaishankar's visit. WION: How do you see the India-Tunisia ties? Nejmeddine Lakhal: Since the establishment of Diplomatic relations in 1958, ties between our two friendly countries has grown steadily - both on bilateral and multilateral levels. Today, Tunisia and India enjoy warm and cordial relations founded on mutual respect and trust, Common universal values and principals, and shares apprehensions and views on many regional and international issues and challenges, including sustainable development, climate change, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity. The decisions and recommendations of the 12 sessions of the Tunisian-Indian Joint Committee held in Delhi in October 2017, and the adoption of a visionary “roadmap” on that occasion, are expected to give a new dimension to the Tunisian- Indian partnership in many key sectors and areas of common interest. Today Tunisia-India are stronger, and we are working to make the future even brighter for the benefit of Tunisian and Indian people. WION: Indian external affairs minister is set to visit Tunisia, what will be the top focus? Nejmeddine Lakhal: The second official visit of an Indian minister of external affairs to Tunisia since 1958. Dr Jaishankar’s visit to Tunisia will be an ideal opportunity to discuss not only bilateral issues, but also multilateral questions of common interest, in particular in light of Tunisia’s UNSC non-permanent membership in 2020-2021, and India's candidacy to the same seat for 2021-2022. So, we are looking forward to His Excellency's visit to Tunisia, and for the high-level meetings he will have in Tunisia, including on the “Fifth session of the Bilateral Political Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs” to further boost and diversify the areas and sectors of partnership between our two, and for “the 13 session of Tunisia-India Joint Meeting”, to consolidate coordination and concertation between our two countries on regional and international issues of common interest. WION: Can we expect a high-level visit from either side? Nejmeddine Lakhal: Definitely, we are always looking for a high-level visit to India, and 2020 could be the year to have such visits. WION: How do you see India's development aid, India helping in the establishment of soil, water and tissue testing Laboratory in Tunis? Nejmeddine Lakhal: The establishment of soil, water and tissue testing laboratory project within the India-Africa Forum Summit is just one of the example of Tunisia-India partnership. There are many other sectors where our cooperation is moving forward, including TICs, energy, biotechnology and sciences. With our firm commitment to increase and promote trade, investment and economic between our countries, I am confident that we will be able to make a huge difference in the years to come. WION: This year, India-Africa summit will take place, what expectations do you have from the summit and have the preparations begun? Nejmeddine Lakhal: Yes, the preparations for the next the India-Africa Forum Summit is underway. We already had a mid-term review meeting of the strategic cooperation framework of Africa-India Forum Summit III in New Delhi from September 11-19 last year. The meeting was attended by representatives from the ministry of external affairs, a delegation from the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and representatives of the African Diplomatic Corps in Delhi. Many other meetings will take place to make sure and the next summit will be another success. I would to take this opportunity to commend support that India is providing to Africa’s development, and Tunisia looks forward to working closely with India for the success of the next session to be held in India in September, 2020. And given its rich and solid expertise in many development areas, Tunisia is ready to partner with India for the implementation of the “IAFS IV” development projects in the African Francophone region of Africa in particular. WION: How are both countries, working together to fight the scourge of terrorism? Nejmeddine Lakhal: Terrorism is a significant threat to our societies, global peace and security, and to our shared values of democracy, justice, and the rule of law. Like India, Tunisia has steadfastly maintained “zero tolerance” on terror and violence and strongly condemns terrorism, that has hit both our countries hard. Tunisia’s position is firm and unequivocal on terrorism anywhere in line with its national policy and its international commitments. Today, no state is immune from the threat of terrorism. However rich or powerful, no single country can defeat terror alone or face the current challenges posed today by various terrorist entities. Only through a strong and constructive international cooperation that we can effectively deal with this major danger. WION: You are part of OIC, as member of OIC, do you think India should be part of it? Nejmeddine Lakhal: This is India’s decision. Only India can reply to this question.

Ahead of Jaishankar's visit, Tunisia lauds India's partnership with Africa

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has told India's external affairs minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-meets-iranian-president-hassan-rouhani-discusses-progress-in-india-iran-bilateral-ties-269834"> S Jaishankar </a>that Washington's sanctions on the west Asian country are "transient" and the country will "have no choice but to abandon maximum pressure on Iran before or after its presidential elections”.

In a meeting on Monday in Tehran, Hassan Rouhani said despite the "current conditions that the US is imposing unilateral sanctions against other nations", India and Iran "have to attempt to maintain good relations and cooperation".

Iran also shared the proposed Hormuz Peace Endeavour (HOPE) Initiative which aims to provide free maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The idea was shared by the Iranian President from the annual United General Assembly meeting in September.

Chabahar remained the main focus of the meeting, President Rouhani said, "Finalising the Chabahar-Zahedan Railway and connecting it to the nationwide railway system can develop trade in the region."

Earlier, Iran President Rouhani met Jaishankar which lasted for half an hour. During the meet, EAM delivered greetings of PM Modi and called for developing relations between Iranian and Indian banks.

India plans to build a railway network from&nbsp;Zahedan, which is a border city of Iran and Afghanistan and connect it to Chabahar and which will help in the transportation of goods from Afghanistan to the port.

Both the countries have agreed to speed up the Chabahar project with externtal affairs minister S Jaishankar saying, "cooperation between the two countries in Chabahar region has a very good pace and we should accelerate the implementation of projects."

The operation of the Shaheed Beheshti Port at Chabahar was taken over by India Ports Global Co last December and since then over 5 lakh tons of cargo has been handled which includes exports from Afghanistan which began in February.&nbsp;

In a meet last week, India, Afghanistan and Iran agreed to include Mormugoa and New Mangalore port from India in the designated route under the Chabahar Agreement.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the 19th India-Iran joint commission meeting took place and was chaired by extrnal affairs minister Jaishankar and his counterpart Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif. During the meet, the issue of state sponsorship of terror came up.

Without taking the name of Pakistan, a ministry of external affairs release said, "Both sides shared concerns at the grave threat posed by terrorism and called for an immediate end to all support to terror sanctuaries. They agreed that state aid, abetment and support to terrorism should be condemned."

This is the fourth meeting between external affairs minister Jaishankar and foreign minister Zarif. They had earlier met in Dushanbe, New York and Baku on the sidelines of multilateral events. They will next meet in January in Delhi during Iran FM's India visit. &nbsp;Next year marks 70 years of ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has told India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar that Washington's sanctions on the west Asian country are "transient" and the country will "have no choice but to abandon maximum pressure on Iran before or after its presidential elections”.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has told India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar that Washington's sanctions on the west Asian country are "transient" and the country will "have no choice but to abandon maximum pressure on Iran before or after its presidential elections”. In a meeting on Monday in Tehran, Hassan Rouhani said despite the "current conditions that the US is imposing unilateral sanctions against other nations", India and Iran "have to attempt to maintain good relations and cooperation". Iran also shared the proposed Hormuz Peace Endeavour (HOPE) Initiative which aims to provide free maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The idea was shared by the Iranian President from the annual United General Assembly meeting in September. Chabahar remained the main focus of the meeting, President Rouhani said, "Finalising the Chabahar-Zahedan Railway and connecting it to the nationwide railway system can develop trade in the region." Earlier, Iran President Rouhani met Jaishankar which lasted for half an hour. During the meet, EAM delivered greetings of PM Modi and called for developing relations between Iranian and Indian banks. India plans to build a railway network from Zahedan, which is a border city of Iran and Afghanistan and connect it to Chabahar and which will help in the transportation of goods from Afghanistan to the port. Both the countries have agreed to speed up the Chabahar project with externtal affairs minister S Jaishankar saying, "cooperation between the two countries in Chabahar region has a very good pace and we should accelerate the implementation of projects." The operation of the Shaheed Beheshti Port at Chabahar was taken over by India Ports Global Co last December and since then over 5 lakh tons of cargo has been handled which includes exports from Afghanistan which began in February. In a meet last week, India, Afghanistan and Iran agreed to include Mormugoa and New Mangalore port from India in the designated route under the Chabahar Agreement. On Sunday, the 19th India-Iran joint commission meeting took place and was chaired by extrnal affairs minister Jaishankar and his counterpart Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif. During the meet, the issue of state sponsorship of terror came up. Without taking the name of Pakistan, a ministry of external affairs release said, "Both sides shared concerns at the grave threat posed by terrorism and called for an immediate end to all support to terror sanctuaries. They agreed that state aid, abetment and support to terrorism should be condemned." This is the fourth meeting between external affairs minister Jaishankar and foreign minister Zarif. They had earlier met in Dushanbe, New York and Baku on the sidelines of multilateral events. They will next meet in January in Delhi during Iran FM's India visit. Next year marks 70 years of ties between the two countries.

US will have no choice but to abandon maximum pressure after presidential elections: Iran to India

India has demanded that Islamabad should hand over Indians wanted for terror activities living in Pakistan to be handed over back to New Delhi. In 2011, India had handed over a list of 48 most wanted people living in Pakistan and included names such as underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

In an interview to French newspaper Le Monde, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "We need actions" from Pakistan "that demonstrate a real willingness to cooperate. For example, there are Indians wanted for terrorist activities living in Pakistan. We are telling Pakistan: hand them over to us."

Highlighting Pakistan's use of terrorism against India, Jaishankar said, "Pakistan has developed an important terrorist industry and sends terrorists to India to carry out attacks. Pakistan itself does not deny this situation."

Explaining, "Now, tell me: which country would be willing to talk and negotiate with a neighbour who openly practices terrorism against it? If one of your neighbours did, would you, France, pretend that everything is fine?"

India has been calling Pakistan to take "credible, irreversible and verifiable" against terror camps on its territory. Meanwhile, the EAM also spoke on Kashmir, saying restrictions have been "gradually reduced" and the situation is normalising with telephone and mobile lines being restored and shops being opened.

Asked if foreign journalists will be allowed to visit Kashmir, Jaishankar said, while he "can't commit to a deadline" but "as soon as it is safe, they can go", adding, "We don't want their presence to provoke problems - from people who would take advantage of it to show that there is unrest."

India has demanded that Islamabad should hand over Indians wanted for terror activities living in Pakistan to be handed over back to New Delhi. In 2011, India had handed over a list of 48 most wanted people living in Pakistan and included names such as underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

India has demanded that Islamabad should hand over Indians wanted for terror activities living in Pakistan to be handed over back to New Delhi. In 2011, India had handed over a list of 48 most wanted people living in Pakistan and included names such as underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. In an interview to French newspaper Le Monde, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "We need actions" from Pakistan "that demonstrate a real willingness to cooperate. For example, there are Indians wanted for terrorist activities living in Pakistan. We are telling Pakistan: hand them over to us." Highlighting Pakistan's use of terrorism against India, Jaishankar said, "Pakistan has developed an important terrorist industry and sends terrorists to India to carry out attacks. Pakistan itself does not deny this situation." Explaining, "Now, tell me: which country would be willing to talk and negotiate with a neighbour who openly practices terrorism against it? If one of your neighbours did, would you, France, pretend that everything is fine?" India has been calling Pakistan to take "credible, irreversible and verifiable" against terror camps on its territory. Meanwhile, the EAM also spoke on Kashmir, saying restrictions have been "gradually reduced" and the situation is normalising with telephone and mobile lines being restored and shops being opened. Asked if foreign journalists will be allowed to visit Kashmir, Jaishankar said, while he "can't commit to a deadline" but "as soon as it is safe, they can go", adding, "We don't want their presence to provoke problems - from people who would take advantage of it to show that there is unrest."

Hand over Indians wanted for terror activities, India tells Pakistan

External Affair Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday said that evolution of India's foreign policy can be categorised into six broad phases - each a response to a different global strategic environment - and while previous phases have a neat description, it is harder to categorise the present one partly because it is still early phase of a major transition.

Delivering the 4th Ramnath Goenka Memorial Lecture here, Jaishankar said the first phase from 1946-62 could be characterised as an "era of optimistic non-alignment", that from 1962-70 as realism and discovery, from 1971-1991 as regional assertion, 1991- 1999 as quest for strategic autonomy, 2000- 2013 as balancing power and the last phase and 2014 to current as a phase of energetic diplomacy.

The BJP-led government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014.

Delineating the first phase between 1946, a year before the country gained Independence and 1962, when there was war with China, Jaishankar said 1946-62 was an "era of optimistic non-alignment" whose setting was very much in a bipolar world led by the United States and the USSR.

He added that India's objectives were to resist the constraining of choices and dilution of its sovereignty as it rebuilt its economy and consolidated its integrity.

"Its parallel goal, as the first of the decolonized nations, was to lead Asia and Africa in a quest for more equitable world order," said Jaishankar.

He said the second phase started in 1962 and lasted till 1971. It was a decade of "realism and recovery".

During this era, India made more "pragmatic choices" on security and political challenges despite a paucity of resources.

"It looked beyond non-alignment in the interest of national security, concluding a now largely forgotten defence agreement with the US in 1964. External pressures on Kashmir mounted in this period of vulnerability," Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar said in the third phase India had major "regional assertion" which began with the creation of Bangladesh and ended with Indian Peace Keeping Force "misadventure" in Sri Lanka.

"It was a particularly complex phase as the US-China-Pakistan axis which came into being at this time seriously threatened India's prospects The collapse of USSR, its close ally, and the not unconnected economic crisis in 1991 compelled us to look again at the first principles of both domestic and foreign policy," he said.

The dissolution of USSR in 1991 led to the emergence of the unipolar world, Jaishankar said, adding that these events led to the beginning of the fourth phase of Indian foreign policy.

"It encourages a radical rethink in India on a broad range of issues and it shifted focus safeguarding strategic autonomy," he said.

The minister said it was also a period Indian reached out to the US more intensively.

He said after 1998 Indian entered the fifth phase of foreign policy and acquired attributes to balancing power. "It is reflected in India-US nuclear deal as well as better understanding with the West at large," he said.

During this phase, India was successful in making common cause with China on trade and climate change, along with this that it was able to consolidate further ties with Russia, Jaishnakar said.

However, this phase also came to an end in 2014 and initiated the sixth phase. "To begin woith China gathered more momentum," he said.

"During this period India has chosen to turn to very energetic diplomacy. It did so by recognising that we are entering the world of convergences and issue-based arrangements," he said.

The minister said India still in the early phase of major transition in foreign policy.

"While the previous phases of foreign policy each have a neat description, it is harder to categorise the current one. Part of the challenge is that we are still in the early phase of a major transition. The contours of even the near future are not yet clear. One solution is to anchor it on Indian aspirations and to speak of our goal of emerging as a leading power," he added.

External Affair Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday said that evolution of India's foreign policy can be categorised into six broad phases - each a response to a different global strategic environment - and while previous phases have a neat description, it is harder to categorise the present one partly because it is still early phase of a major transition.

External Affair Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday said that evolution of India's foreign policy can be categorised into six broad phases - each a response to a different global strategic environment - and while previous phases have a neat description, it is harder to categorise the present one partly because it is still early phase of a major transition. Delivering the 4th Ramnath Goenka Memorial Lecture here, Jaishankar said the first phase from 1946-62 could be characterised as an "era of optimistic non-alignment", that from 1962-70 as realism and discovery, from 1971-1991 as regional assertion, 1991- 1999 as quest for strategic autonomy, 2000- 2013 as balancing power and the last phase and 2014 to current as a phase of energetic diplomacy. The BJP-led government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014. Delineating the first phase between 1946, a year before the country gained Independence and 1962, when there was war with China, Jaishankar said 1946-62 was an "era of optimistic non-alignment" whose setting was very much in a bipolar world led by the United States and the USSR. He added that India's objectives were to resist the constraining of choices and dilution of its sovereignty as it rebuilt its economy and consolidated its integrity. "Its parallel goal, as the first of the decolonized nations, was to lead Asia and Africa in a quest for more equitable world order," said Jaishankar. He said the second phase started in 1962 and lasted till 1971. It was a decade of "realism and recovery". During this era, India made more "pragmatic choices" on security and political challenges despite a paucity of resources. "It looked beyond non-alignment in the interest of national security, concluding a now largely forgotten defence agreement with the US in 1964. External pressures on Kashmir mounted in this period of vulnerability," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar said in the third phase India had major "regional assertion" which began with the creation of Bangladesh and ended with Indian Peace Keeping Force "misadventure" in Sri Lanka. "It was a particularly complex phase as the US-China-Pakistan axis which came into being at this time seriously threatened India's prospects The collapse of USSR, its close ally, and the not unconnected economic crisis in 1991 compelled us to look again at the first principles of both domestic and foreign policy," he said. The dissolution of USSR in 1991 led to the emergence of the unipolar world, Jaishankar said, adding that these events led to the beginning of the fourth phase of Indian foreign policy. "It encourages a radical rethink in India on a broad range of issues and it shifted focus safeguarding strategic autonomy," he said. The minister said it was also a period Indian reached out to the US more intensively. He said after 1998 Indian entered the fifth phase of foreign policy and acquired attributes to balancing power. "It is reflected in India-US nuclear deal as well as better understanding with the West at large," he said. During this phase, India was successful in making common cause with China on trade and climate change, along with this that it was able to consolidate further ties with Russia, Jaishnakar said. However, this phase also came to an end in 2014 and initiated the sixth phase. "To begin woith China gathered more momentum," he said. "During this period India has chosen to turn to very energetic diplomacy. It did so by recognising that we are entering the world of convergences and issue-based arrangements," he said. The minister said India still in the early phase of major transition in foreign policy. "While the previous phases of foreign policy each have a neat description, it is harder to categorise the current one. Part of the challenge is that we are still in the early phase of a major transition. The contours of even the near future are not yet clear. One solution is to anchor it on Indian aspirations and to speak of our goal of emerging as a leading power," he added.

From non-alignment to energetic diplomacy: Jaishankar delineates six phases of India's foreign policy

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