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The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges.

Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 3 decades.

"We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said.

"And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," he added.

Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community."

The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.
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The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges.

The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges. Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 3 decades. "We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said. "And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," he added. Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community." The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.

Epicentre of terrorism is right in our neighbourhood: S Jaishankar

The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges.

Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 30 decades.

"We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said.

"And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," Jaishankar added.

Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community."

The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.

The Indian government's move to revoke Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir has a "national security connotation", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday, while emphasising that the country "lives in a tough neighbourhood" and faces more than its fair share of national security challenges. Addressing the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), the minister, in an apparent reference to Pakistan, said that the most prominent national security challenge that India has been subjected to for many decades is the "cross border terrorism", which has cost more than 40,000 lives in the past 30 decades. "We are opposed to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believe there is no justification for it, whatsoever. But it is not just enough to have a position. When subjected to terrorist attacks, any polity that is sincerely committed to the welfare of its people will surely respond," Jaishankar said. "And indeed, that is precisely what we have done in recent years. Even the changes that were approved last month by the Indian Parliament with respect to Jammu and Kashmir, while driven by the needs of governance and development, and have a national security connotation," Jaishankar added. Referring to Pakistan, Jaishankar said that the epicentre of terrorism is "right in our neighbourhood. But even as we take our responsive measures, our belief is that this is not just a concern for one country but for the entire international community." The External Affairs Minister is on a three-day visit to Finland.

Article 370 abrogation in Kashmir has 'national security connotation': External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-views-are-heard-much-more-clearly-today-s-jaishankar-on-100-days-of-mea-250207">External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar</a> on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

"I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power.

When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US.

"Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question.

Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab.

India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction. "I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power. When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US. "Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question. Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab. India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan. The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

Work moving in right direction, confident of meeting deadline: Jaishankar on Kartarpur corridor

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's economic and commercial policies. &nbsp;

Addressing the inaugural session of 'Start-Up and Innovation Exhibition' here, Jaishankar said, "In political, strategic as well as economic and commercial areas, Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's policies. Today, what started as a bilateral relationship is something that has grown very much bigger. On rule-based issues, we think similarly."

During the Plenary session, the minister recalled that India and Singapore came together in a very contemporary phase, at a time when the world was changing, including India.

"The two changes (India and Singapore) had something to do with each other," he said.

India, at that time, had a severe balance of payments crisis and was embarking on radical economic reform.

&nbsp;"In that situation, India turned to Singapore and Singapore responded. We had the Look East Policy. Singapore then became a key partner in India's growth and development," Jaishankar added.

In 1992, India launched the India-Asian partnership and by 2005 "we" were members of the East Asia Summit, the minister said.&nbsp;

During this period Singapore was a direct source of investments into India. Its financial market was a major source of capital. It became a favoured and comfortable destination for Indian companies going abroad.&nbsp;

Around 20 per cent of India's investments came from Singapore and more than 9000 Indian companies were registered here, he noted.

Recollecting his service as a High Commissioner of India then, Jaishankar further added that Singapore was the first country with whom India had signed the comprehensive economic partnership agreement and said, "It was my privilege to serve here as these engagements took off." &nbsp;

"We have a very robust defence relationship. We have just completed 25 years of uninterrupted Naval exercises, which I think is the longest that India has with any country in the world," Jaishankar said on the occasion.

Speaking in terms of geopolitics, it's not only the rise of China and the sharper competition between the United States and China but the simultaneous rise of several countries.

"There is no hegemonic power to underwrite an international order but nor is there a global compact among nations. The international situation today is under stress, a very different one from 1992," the minister stressed.

During an interactive session following his address, Jaishankar also said that the "big concerns of India include its relationship with China because we run an enormous trade deficit with China which we believe is a result of unfairly restricted market access."

Prior to the event, Jaishankar and his Singapore counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan also attended 'InSpreneur3.0 - A Start-Up and Innovation Exhibition' in which around 60 startups from India had taken part in the exhibition. 
Jaishankar is currently in Singapore on a three-day visit.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's economic and commercial policies. Addressing the inaugural session of 'Start-Up and Innovation Exhibition' here, Jaishankar said, "In political, strategic as well as economic and commercial areas, Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's policies.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's economic and commercial policies. Addressing the inaugural session of 'Start-Up and Innovation Exhibition' here, Jaishankar said, "In political, strategic as well as economic and commercial areas, Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's policies. Today, what started as a bilateral relationship is something that has grown very much bigger. On rule-based issues, we think similarly." During the Plenary session, the minister recalled that India and Singapore came together in a very contemporary phase, at a time when the world was changing, including India. "The two changes (India and Singapore) had something to do with each other," he said. India, at that time, had a severe balance of payments crisis and was embarking on radical economic reform. "In that situation, India turned to Singapore and Singapore responded. We had the Look East Policy. Singapore then became a key partner in India's growth and development," Jaishankar added. In 1992, India launched the India-Asian partnership and by 2005 "we" were members of the East Asia Summit, the minister said. During this period Singapore was a direct source of investments into India. Its financial market was a major source of capital. It became a favoured and comfortable destination for Indian companies going abroad. Around 20 per cent of India's investments came from Singapore and more than 9000 Indian companies were registered here, he noted. Recollecting his service as a High Commissioner of India then, Jaishankar further added that Singapore was the first country with whom India had signed the comprehensive economic partnership agreement and said, "It was my privilege to serve here as these engagements took off." "We have a very robust defence relationship. We have just completed 25 years of uninterrupted Naval exercises, which I think is the longest that India has with any country in the world," Jaishankar said on the occasion. Speaking in terms of geopolitics, it's not only the rise of China and the sharper competition between the United States and China but the simultaneous rise of several countries. "There is no hegemonic power to underwrite an international order but nor is there a global compact among nations. The international situation today is under stress, a very different one from 1992," the minister stressed. During an interactive session following his address, Jaishankar also said that the "big concerns of India include its relationship with China because we run an enormous trade deficit with China which we believe is a result of unfairly restricted market access." Prior to the event, Jaishankar and his Singapore counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan also attended 'InSpreneur3.0 - A Start-Up and Innovation Exhibition' in which around 60 startups from India had taken part in the exhibition. Jaishankar is currently in Singapore on a three-day visit.

Singapore has become a fulcrum for India's economic policies: S Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that with the opening of the CII representative office in Jakarta, Indian industries will find an ideal platform to proactively engage with their Indonesian counterparts, and the bilateral trade target of $50 billion by 2025 will be set on the right track.

"Indonesia is India`s largest trade partner in goods in the ASEAN region. Our bilateral trade crossed $20 billion last year. There is an immediate urgency to address the trade deficit and look at means for achieving a more balanced trade basket through greater and diversified exports. We aim to achieve it by expanding bilateral trade," he said at the inaugural ceremony of the CII office.

"Hence, achieving the target of $50 billion in bilateral trade by 2025 has to be an important endeavour. We do hope that with the opening of the CII office in Jakarta, the bilateral trade target will be set on the right track," Jaishankar added.

The minister said it is critical for large developing countries like India and Indonesia to join hands and forge collaborative partnerships so that both countries are sufficiently prepared to deal with the global economic challenges.

Jaishankar said that there is a sizable presence of Indian industries across the island nation spread over sectors like energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, textiles, banking and IT services.

"I do hope that with the commencement of operations of the representative office of CII Jakarta, Indian industry will find an ideal platform to engage with their Indonesian counterparts on a more proactive and sustained basis. Likewise, Indonesian entrepreneurs could also use CII to get more information and as a channel for creating business partnerships," he remarked.

At the same function, Jaishankar also unveiled a commemorative stamp to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi this year.

"As two ancient civilisations bound by shared cultural chords, both India and Indonesia are founded on the fundamental edifice of 'Unity in Diversity'&nbsp;or 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika', as you call it in Bahasa," he said.

The minister said that the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi echoed the same sentiments of celebrating the diversity of human spirit without differentiation of any kind.

Jaishankar arrived in Indonesia on Wednesday on a three-day visit to the country.

This was the External Affairs Minister's first bilateral visit in the ASEAN region and maiden visit to the island country after taking office.

During the visit, Jaishankar had detailed discussions with his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi across a broad spectrum of bilateral relations pursuant to the establishment of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2018.

Both leaders discussed steps to deepen bilateral cooperation in the maritime domain, including tangible steps to deepen connectivity between Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India and Aceh Province of Indonesia, a statement from the Indian embassy in Jakarta said.

"In this regard, both leaders welcomed the adoption of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman-Aceh connectivity and looked forward to the holding of the First meeting of the JTF in Indonesia at an early date within this year," the statement said.

The External Affairs Minister extended an invitation to his Indonesian counterpart to visit India for the Joint Commission Meeting later this year.

During the visit, Jaishankar also held meetings with senior leadership of the Indonesian Government, including with General (Retd.) Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs, and General (Retd) Wiranto, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs.

Jaishankar also called on Indonesia's Vice President Jusuf Kalla and discussed steps to further scale up the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Indonesia, the statement said.

He extended an invitation to the Indonesian leader for joining the launch of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) initiative at the UN General Assembly.

The minister also called on former President and Chairwoman of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Megawati Sukarnoputri and recalled her strong association with India. Jaishankar extended an invitation to her to visit India at the earliest. 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that with the opening of the CII representative office in Jakarta, Indian industries will find an ideal platform to proactively engage with their Indonesian counterparts, and the bilateral trade target of $50 billion by 2025 will be set on the right track.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that with the opening of the CII representative office in Jakarta, Indian industries will find an ideal platform to proactively engage with their Indonesian counterparts, and the bilateral trade target of $50 billion by 2025 will be set on the right track. "Indonesia is India`s largest trade partner in goods in the ASEAN region. Our bilateral trade crossed $20 billion last year. There is an immediate urgency to address the trade deficit and look at means for achieving a more balanced trade basket through greater and diversified exports. We aim to achieve it by expanding bilateral trade," he said at the inaugural ceremony of the CII office. "Hence, achieving the target of $50 billion in bilateral trade by 2025 has to be an important endeavour. We do hope that with the opening of the CII office in Jakarta, the bilateral trade target will be set on the right track," Jaishankar added. The minister said it is critical for large developing countries like India and Indonesia to join hands and forge collaborative partnerships so that both countries are sufficiently prepared to deal with the global economic challenges. Jaishankar said that there is a sizable presence of Indian industries across the island nation spread over sectors like energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, textiles, banking and IT services. "I do hope that with the commencement of operations of the representative office of CII Jakarta, Indian industry will find an ideal platform to engage with their Indonesian counterparts on a more proactive and sustained basis. Likewise, Indonesian entrepreneurs could also use CII to get more information and as a channel for creating business partnerships," he remarked. At the same function, Jaishankar also unveiled a commemorative stamp to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi this year. "As two ancient civilisations bound by shared cultural chords, both India and Indonesia are founded on the fundamental edifice of 'Unity in Diversity' or 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika', as you call it in Bahasa," he said. The minister said that the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi echoed the same sentiments of celebrating the diversity of human spirit without differentiation of any kind. Jaishankar arrived in Indonesia on Wednesday on a three-day visit to the country. This was the External Affairs Minister's first bilateral visit in the ASEAN region and maiden visit to the island country after taking office. During the visit, Jaishankar had detailed discussions with his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi across a broad spectrum of bilateral relations pursuant to the establishment of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2018. Both leaders discussed steps to deepen bilateral cooperation in the maritime domain, including tangible steps to deepen connectivity between Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India and Aceh Province of Indonesia, a statement from the Indian embassy in Jakarta said. "In this regard, both leaders welcomed the adoption of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman-Aceh connectivity and looked forward to the holding of the First meeting of the JTF in Indonesia at an early date within this year," the statement said. The External Affairs Minister extended an invitation to his Indonesian counterpart to visit India for the Joint Commission Meeting later this year. During the visit, Jaishankar also held meetings with senior leadership of the Indonesian Government, including with General (Retd.) Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs, and General (Retd) Wiranto, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs. Jaishankar also called on Indonesia's Vice President Jusuf Kalla and discussed steps to further scale up the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Indonesia, the statement said. He extended an invitation to the Indonesian leader for joining the launch of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) initiative at the UN General Assembly. The minister also called on former President and Chairwoman of Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Megawati Sukarnoputri and recalled her strong association with India. Jaishankar extended an invitation to her to visit India at the earliest.

India-Indonesia trade target of $50 billion will now be set on track: Jaishankar

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

During his meet with Indonesia FM Marsudi, both sides adopted of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman- Aceh connectivity. The first meeting of the Joint Task Force will take place in Indonesia in November.

Last year PM Modi had visited Indonesia and during his meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, both sides discussed connectivity between India's Andaman Islands and Indonesia's Aceh province included cruise ship connectivity.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart <a href="https://twitter.com/Menlu_RI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Menlu_RI</a>. My 1st bilat’l visit as EAM to ASEAN.Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership.Agreed to address common challenges&amp;explore shared opportunities.Our talks highlightd mutual support for territorial integrity <a href="https://t.co/5R4Iw0wlDt">pic.twitter.com/5R4Iw0wlDt</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1169524618828206081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indo Pacific was one of the key focus between Jaishankar-Marsudi meet. Remember Indonesia had played a crucial role in the adoption of ‘ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific'.

"Our Shared Vision of Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific agreed during Prime Minister’s visit last year, is a recognition that India and Indonesia, as two major economies in this region need to develop synergies to harness the potential and meet the challenges that the region faces." EAM Jaishanker said at the press statements after him meet with Indonesian FM.

Adding, "We have the commonality of interest in working together on Indo-Pacific concept within EAS and I underline to the Minister that we see ASEAN Centrality as a prominent feature of our approach to the Indo-Pacific."

India has also joined Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand-Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) as the first Dialogue Partner as the invitation of Jakarta.

In Singapore, where is he from 6th to 10th, he will be co-chairing the 6th Meeting of Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) &nbsp;Foreign Minister of Singapore Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

He will also call on Singapore’s Prime Minister &amp; Deputy Prime Minister.

"The two sides will review the whole range of bilateral issues and provide the direction for further deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries", a ministry of external affairs release said.

PM Modi has visited Singapore 4 times, 2 times in 2015 and 2 times in 2018. It is interesting to note that Singapore was the first country in the world to join the RuPay card, which is an Indian payment gateway like visa or MasterCard.

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. During his meet with Indonesia FM Marsudi, both sides adopted of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman- Aceh connectivity. The first meeting of the Joint Task Force will take place in Indonesia in November. Last year PM Modi had visited Indonesia and during his meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, both sides discussed connectivity between India's Andaman Islands and Indonesia's Aceh province included cruise ship connectivity. Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart @Menlu_RI. My 1st bilat’l visit as EAM to ASEAN.Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership.Agreed to address common challenges&explore shared opportunities.Our talks highlightd mutual support for territorial integrity pic.twitter.com/5R4Iw0wlDt — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 5, 2019 × Indo Pacific was one of the key focus between Jaishankar-Marsudi meet. Remember Indonesia had played a crucial role in the adoption of ‘ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific'. "Our Shared Vision of Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific agreed during Prime Minister’s visit last year, is a recognition that India and Indonesia, as two major economies in this region need to develop synergies to harness the potential and meet the challenges that the region faces." EAM Jaishanker said at the press statements after him meet with Indonesian FM. Adding, "We have the commonality of interest in working together on Indo-Pacific concept within EAS and I underline to the Minister that we see ASEAN Centrality as a prominent feature of our approach to the Indo-Pacific." India has also joined Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand-Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) as the first Dialogue Partner as the invitation of Jakarta. In Singapore, where is he from 6th to 10th, he will be co-chairing the 6th Meeting of Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) Foreign Minister of Singapore Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. He will also call on Singapore’s Prime Minister & Deputy Prime Minister. "The two sides will review the whole range of bilateral issues and provide the direction for further deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries", a ministry of external affairs release said. PM Modi has visited Singapore 4 times, 2 times in 2015 and 2 times in 2018. It is interesting to note that Singapore was the first country in the world to join the RuPay card, which is an Indian payment gateway like visa or MasterCard.

With ASEAN in focus, EAM talks connectivity in Indonesia, strategic partnership in Singapore

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi in Jakarta on Thursday. The EAM`s ongoing visit is his first to an ASEAN member state after assuming charge.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi in Jakarta on Thursday. The EAM`s ongoing visit is his first to an ASEAN member state after assuming charge. The two sides talked about the common challenges faced by their countries, as well as their mutual support for principles of territorial integrity. "Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart @Menlu_RI. My 1st bilateral visit as EAM to ASEAN. Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership. Agreed to address common challenges & explore shared opportunities. Our talks highlighted mutual support for territorial integrity," Jaishankar tweeted. Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart @Menlu_RI. My 1st bilat’l visit as EAM to ASEAN.Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership.Agreed to address common challenges&explore shared opportunities.Our talks highlightd mutual support for territorial integrity pic.twitter.com/5R4Iw0wlDt — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 5, 2019 × "FM Jaishankar and I agreed to step up cooperation in Aceh - Andaman/Nicobar connectivity. Indonesia stands ready to participate in its infrastructure and connectivity development. Indonesia and India also agreed to strengthen Indo-Pacific cooperation," Marsudi tweeted after their exchange. This is the first visit of a Union Minister to Indonesia after the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government came into power for a second term. The three-day visit -- from September 4 to 6 -- reflects the high priority India attaches to its bilateral relationship with Indonesia, which is a Comprehensive Strategic Partner. New Delhi and Jakarta also share vision on maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.After wrapping up his official engagements in Indonesia, the EAM is scheduled to travel to Singapore from September 6 to 10. He is slated to co-chair the 6th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) with his Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan.

Jaishankar holds talks with Indonesian counterpart Marsudi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-qureshi-confirm-presence-at-informal-saarc-foreign-ministers-meet-in-september-246893">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> on Monday met New Zealand's Leader of Opposition Simon Bridges and held discussions on Indo-Pacific and ways to strengthen bilateral ties.

"Pleasure to receive New Zealand's Leader of Opposition @simonjbridges. Good discussion on Indo-Pacific and on expanding bilateral relations," Jaishankar tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pleasure to receive New Zealand’s Leader of Opposition <a href="https://twitter.com/simonjbridges?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@simonjbridges</a>. Good discussion on Indo-Pacific and on expanding bilateral relations. <a href="https://t.co/e0LsX6Hc4j">pic.twitter.com/e0LsX6Hc4j</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1168436862161215490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last month, Jaishankar had met his New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters during his visit to Bangkok for the ASEAN-related meetings.

Both the ministers had discussed Indo-Pacific and agreed to upgrade economic and political ties between India and New Zealand.

India and New Zealand have cordial and friendly relations rooted in the linkages of Commonwealth, parliamentary democracy and English language.

The two countries have been fellow travellers in their commitment to disarmament, global peace, North-South Dialogue, human rights, ecological preservation and combating international terrorism.

Tourism and sporting links, particularly in cricket, hockey and mountaineering, have played a significant role in fostering goodwill between the two countries.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met New Zealand's Leader of Opposition Simon Bridges and held discussions on Indo-Pacific and ways to strengthen bilateral ties.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met New Zealand's Leader of Opposition Simon Bridges and held discussions on Indo-Pacific and ways to strengthen bilateral ties. "Pleasure to receive New Zealand's Leader of Opposition @simonjbridges. Good discussion on Indo-Pacific and on expanding bilateral relations," Jaishankar tweeted. Pleasure to receive New Zealand’s Leader of Opposition @simonjbridges. Good discussion on Indo-Pacific and on expanding bilateral relations. pic.twitter.com/e0LsX6Hc4j — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 2, 2019 × Last month, Jaishankar had met his New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters during his visit to Bangkok for the ASEAN-related meetings. Both the ministers had discussed Indo-Pacific and agreed to upgrade economic and political ties between India and New Zealand. India and New Zealand have cordial and friendly relations rooted in the linkages of Commonwealth, parliamentary democracy and English language. The two countries have been fellow travellers in their commitment to disarmament, global peace, North-South Dialogue, human rights, ecological preservation and combating international terrorism. Tourism and sporting links, particularly in cricket, hockey and mountaineering, have played a significant role in fostering goodwill between the two countries.

India's foreign minister Jaishankar discusses Indo-Pacific, bilateral ties with New Zealand's Opposition leader

Poland has assured India its support to deal with cross border terror issue during the visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to the country. EAM Jaishankar met his Polish counterpart Prof.

Poland has assured India its support to deal with cross border terror issue during the visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to the country. EAM Jaishankar met his Polish counterpart Prof. Jacek Czaputowicz on Thursday. The India Poland Foreign Minister in a joint statement said, "FM Prof. Czaputowicz expressed the commitment of Poland to support global efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, particularly cross-border terrorism." During the half-an-hour face-to-face talks, Jaishankar appreciated Polish Presidency in United Nations Security Council. Poland as the UNSC chair had told Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi when he called him to brief on Kashmir that Warsaw is in favour of a dialogue between Pakistan and India to sort out differences. "We exchanged views on a number of regional and global matters, especially in the context of Poland’s Security Council membership," Jaishanker said after press statements alongside the Polish foreign minister. This is the first visit by Indian foreign minister to Poland since 1987. Visiting Indian minister expressed New Delhi's desire to engage with Poland under the Visegrad format, something he had talked about during his visit to Hungary earlier this week. Visegrád is a group of four central and eastern European nations — Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. "We value Poland as a large and important country in Europe, as a key member of the European Union and as a pillar of the Visegrad-4. It is currently a member of the UN Security Council which is in itself a recognition of its stature", Jaishanker said. Polish national carrier LOT will be starting direct flights from Warsaw to New Delhi from September 12 and Deputy Polish Prime Minister Piotr Gliński himself would be leading the Polish delegation on the inaugural flight. During the visit, Jaishankar called on the Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki and Deputy Polish PM Piotr Gliński. Jaishankar was on a three-nation visit this week to Hungary, Russia and Poland.

Poland assures India support in dealing with cross border terrorism

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has slammed Pakistan for using terror as a state policy and a country that has been obstructing trade and connectivity in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-iran-to-dominate-jaishankar-lavrov-talks-in-moscow-245855">Speaking at the powerful think tank Valdai club</a> in Moscow EAM said, "Problem with Pakistan is very different. I would say if today you look at international relations, I cannot think of any other country in the world,&nbsp;which actually uses terrorism as a diplomatic tool against its neighbour. It a very unique phenomenon."

Jaishankar highlighted how Islamabad refused to grant the most favoured nation or MFN status to India despite New Delhi granting it. India had withdrawn the status after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group.

Jaishankar said, "We have struggled to have normal trade. They would not give us MFN status, although we are members of the WTO and Gatt. They would not allow connectivity from India to Afghanistan."

Pakistan has also been hindering India-Afghanistan connectivity. To increase connectivity India and Afghanistan started the air corridor which has been expanded to many cities of both the countries.

The foreign minister further explained, "So if have a neighbour who will not trade with you normally, who would not allow connectivity, using terrorism as a means of pressurizing you is okay as a policy, it is not a normal neighbour. We have some unique problem out there. We will find ways to deal with. There are complicated political and historical reasons for it"

Asked if, in foreseeable future, there can convergences between the two neighbours, Jaishankar said, "It will certainly would be my hope that they would become a normal neighbour, one day. I mean, that is something I would like to see happen."

The comments by Jaishankar comes even after Pakistan on Tuesday said that it is considering a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-considering-closing-airspace-to-india-says-minister-246070">complete closure of Air Space to India</a> and a complete ban on the use of Pakistan land routes for Indian trade to Afghanistan.

Jaishankar is on a two-day Russia visit and will meet his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has slammed Pakistan for using terror as a state policy and a country that has been obstructing trade and connectivity in the region.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has slammed Pakistan for using terror as a state policy and a country that has been obstructing trade and connectivity in the region. Speaking at the powerful think tank Valdai club in Moscow EAM said, "Problem with Pakistan is very different. I would say if today you look at international relations, I cannot think of any other country in the world, which actually uses terrorism as a diplomatic tool against its neighbour. It a very unique phenomenon." Jaishankar highlighted how Islamabad refused to grant the most favoured nation or MFN status to India despite New Delhi granting it. India had withdrawn the status after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group. Jaishankar said, "We have struggled to have normal trade. They would not give us MFN status, although we are members of the WTO and Gatt. They would not allow connectivity from India to Afghanistan." Pakistan has also been hindering India-Afghanistan connectivity. To increase connectivity India and Afghanistan started the air corridor which has been expanded to many cities of both the countries. The foreign minister further explained, "So if have a neighbour who will not trade with you normally, who would not allow connectivity, using terrorism as a means of pressurizing you is okay as a policy, it is not a normal neighbour. We have some unique problem out there. We will find ways to deal with. There are complicated political and historical reasons for it" Asked if, in foreseeable future, there can convergences between the two neighbours, Jaishankar said, "It will certainly would be my hope that they would become a normal neighbour, one day. I mean, that is something I would like to see happen." The comments by Jaishankar comes even after Pakistan on Tuesday said that it is considering a complete closure of Air Space to India and a complete ban on the use of Pakistan land routes for Indian trade to Afghanistan. Jaishankar is on a two-day Russia visit and will meet his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday.

In Moscow, India's foreign minister Jaishankar slams Pakistan for supporting terror

India's external affairs minister S&nbsp;Jaishankar met Russian foreign minister Lavrov in Moscow today.

&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;told his Russian counterpart that he had started his diplomatic career in the Russian capital.

"I look forward for productive talks,"&nbsp;Jaishankar&nbsp;told Lavrov as the Indian delegation met their hosts.

PM Modi will be visiting Vladivostok next week for the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok from September 4 to 6. The Indian prime minister will also be meeting President Putin at the 20th annual bilateral summit.

Jaishankar who is on a two-day visit to Moscow ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official engagement had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-complex-relationship-with-china-a-relationship-with-great-future-s-jaishankar-in-moscow-246164">addressed the Valdai Club</a> on Tuesday&nbsp;where he discussed the "Indo-Pacific concept" and hoped that Russia will have its own "version of Indo-pacific".

"All interested powers look at it with an open mind, treat the Indo-Pacific as part of the changing world and look at it as an old concept that has found a new relevance and join the debate."

"There is an Indo-Pacific message in Vladivostok," he added.

On the first day, S Jaishankar unveiled a Gandhi statue at the Indian Embassy premises on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met Russian foreign minister Lavrov in Moscow today. Jaishankar told his Russian counterpart that he had started his diplomatic career in the Russian capital.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar met Russian foreign minister Lavrov in Moscow today. Jaishankar told his Russian counterpart that he had started his diplomatic career in the Russian capital. "I look forward for productive talks," Jaishankar told Lavrov as the Indian delegation met their hosts. PM Modi will be visiting Vladivostok next week for the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok from September 4 to 6. The Indian prime minister will also be meeting President Putin at the 20th annual bilateral summit. Jaishankar who is on a two-day visit to Moscow ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official engagement had addressed the Valdai Club on Tuesday where he discussed the "Indo-Pacific concept" and hoped that Russia will have its own "version of Indo-pacific". "All interested powers look at it with an open mind, treat the Indo-Pacific as part of the changing world and look at it as an old concept that has found a new relevance and join the debate." "There is an Indo-Pacific message in Vladivostok," he added. On the first day, S Jaishankar unveiled a Gandhi statue at the Indian Embassy premises on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

Jaishankar meets Russian foreign minister Lavrov in Moscow

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.&nbsp;

Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments.

"They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said.

The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum.

"They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added.

Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was&nbsp;the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status&nbsp;for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the&nbsp;framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf. Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments. "They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said. The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. "They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added. Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Russia ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

Foreign minister Jaishankar on two-day visit to Russia from today

External affairs minister S Jaishankar will hold talks with Russian Foriegn minister Sergey Lavrov in Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan &amp; Iran and situation in gulf. Both countries have stakes in the west asia and any development can impact India's energy interest. 
&nbsp; 
"They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the persion gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of russian foriegn ministry said. 
&nbsp; 
The visit comes even just ahead of PM Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. 
&nbsp; 
"They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment , military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added. 
&nbsp; 
India and Russia hold annual summit, the last happened in 2018 at Delhi when the mega S400 deal was announced.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Russia will also be helping India in its first manned mission to space —Gaganyaan.&nbsp;Russia's space agency Roscosmos&nbsp;will training four Indian astronauts of which three will be selected to go onboard India's human spaceflight programme. 
&nbsp; 
Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was&nbsp;the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations security council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status&nbsp;for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
&nbsp; 
The&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said," change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the&nbsp;framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India".

External affairs minister S Jaishankar will hold talks with Russian Foriegn minister Sergey Lavrov in Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan & Iran and situation in gulf.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar will hold talks with Russian Foriegn minister Sergey Lavrov in Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan & Iran and situation in gulf. Both countries have stakes in the west asia and any development can impact India's energy interest. "They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the persion gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of russian foriegn ministry said. The visit comes even just ahead of PM Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. "They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment , military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added. India and Russia hold annual summit, the last happened in 2018 at Delhi when the mega S400 deal was announced. Russia will also be helping India in its first manned mission to space —Gaganyaan. Russia's space agency Roscosmos will training four Indian astronauts of which three will be selected to go onboard India's human spaceflight programme. Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations security council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Russia ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said," change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India".

Afghanistan, Iran to dominate Jaishankar-Lavrov talks in Moscow

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.

In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October.

"Some suggestions were made today by the Chinese side to expand the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, we are deeply appreciative of those initiatives," Jaishanker said. &nbsp;

The talks between Jaishanker and Wang Yi focussed&nbsp;on a second, informal, Wuhan-like summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to be held in India this year.

"India, China should be a factor of stability," Wang Yi said. "We need to deepen our cooperation, there are certain differences between the two nations,"&nbsp;China's foreign minister said.

Watch:&nbsp;EAM S Jaishankar hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eam-s-jaishankar-hold-talks-with-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-242368/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"There are differences between the two countries, we don't shy away from it but are candid and we will address it," Wang asserted.

During talks with Wang Yi, Jaishankar invoked the Astana consensus. Jaishanker announced that four agreements were signed between India and China&nbsp;including promoting cultural exchanges, enhance cooperation in the field of traditional medicine in healthcare and&nbsp;promote exchanges between sports associations and sportspersons.

India's external affairs minister had met Chinese vice president Wang Qishan earlier.

This is Jaishankar's first ministerial-level meeting with Chinese officials as part of the new government which was formed in May after the BJP-led NDA received&nbsp;a huge mandate in the general elections.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on a three-day visit to China held talks with foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. In the joint address at the foreign minister's meeting, Jaishanker announced that Prime Minister Modi and President Xi would be meeting in October. "Some suggestions were made today by the Chinese side to expand the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, we are deeply appreciative of those initiatives," Jaishanker said. The talks between Jaishanker and Wang Yi focussed on a second, informal, Wuhan-like summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to be held in India this year. "India, China should be a factor of stability," Wang Yi said. "We need to deepen our cooperation, there are certain differences between the two nations," China's foreign minister said. Watch: EAM S Jaishankar hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi "There are differences between the two countries, we don't shy away from it but are candid and we will address it," Wang asserted. During talks with Wang Yi, Jaishankar invoked the Astana consensus. Jaishanker announced that four agreements were signed between India and China including promoting cultural exchanges, enhance cooperation in the field of traditional medicine in healthcare and promote exchanges between sports associations and sportspersons. India's external affairs minister had met Chinese vice president Wang Qishan earlier. This is Jaishankar's first ministerial-level meeting with Chinese officials as part of the new government which was formed in May after the BJP-led NDA received a huge mandate in the general elections.

PM Modi to meet President Xi in October, announces Jaishankar in China

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.&nbsp;

The visit is a preparatory visit for the second informal summit between Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping which will take place on October 11 in Varanasi. The first informal summit between the two leaders had taken place in April 2018 at Wuhan.

During the joint press conference with Wang Yi, Jaishanker said: "Wuhan was a historic meeting that has provided positive direction to our relations", adding, "there has been progress in overall relationship. The two countries agree that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the smooth development of our relations."

Beijing has offered to expand Mansarovar Yatra and said it is aware of India's call for greater access to domestic Chinese market.

"We are of the view that we need to deepen our cooperation," China's foreign minister said, adding, "we stand ready to provide facilities to Indian exports to China".

Jaishanker is in the Chinese capital for a three-day visit to participate in the India-China high-level mechanism to increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It was part of the informal agreement between PM Modi and President Xi at the Wuhan Summit.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eam-s-jaishankar-hold-talks-with-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-242368/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jaishanker's meeting on Monday took place in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir which cropped up during the Jaishankar-Wang discussions.

The Chinese foreign minister said: "There are some differences between our two countries, we don't shy away from those differences. We exchanged view on those matters in a candid manner regarding recent tensions between India and Pak, we made clear China's concerns and issues regarding China's sovereignty, we stated China's principled position."&nbsp;

Jaishankar called for "mutual sensitivity to each other’s core concerns" and "properly managing differences" vital for India-China relations.&nbsp;

"As our leaders agreed in Astana, differences should not become disputes. That is how India-China relations can remain a factor of stability in an uncertain world," he said.

Meanwhile, China has called for Indian support to "pushback unilateralism, protectionism with concrete action" and "safeguard the status of China and India as developing countries" even as Bejing faces Washington's ire on the trade front.

Both sides also concluded four MoUs on promoting cultural exchanges, enhancing cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, promoting exchanges between national sports associations and cooperation in museum management.&nbsp;

The two foreign ministries have agreed on a plan of action for bilateral engagements for the year 2020 which marks 70 years of establishment of diplomatic ties.

Jaishanker will be calling the Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday morning before leaving for Delhi. He called on Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Monday morning.

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi.

India and China agreed to cooperate in several areas on Monday, during India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar's meeting with his counterpart Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi. The visit is a preparatory visit for the second informal summit between Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping which will take place on October 11 in Varanasi. The first informal summit between the two leaders had taken place in April 2018 at Wuhan. During the joint press conference with Wang Yi, Jaishanker said: "Wuhan was a historic meeting that has provided positive direction to our relations", adding, "there has been progress in overall relationship. The two countries agree that maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential for the smooth development of our relations." Beijing has offered to expand Mansarovar Yatra and said it is aware of India's call for greater access to domestic Chinese market. "We are of the view that we need to deepen our cooperation," China's foreign minister said, adding, "we stand ready to provide facilities to Indian exports to China". Jaishanker is in the Chinese capital for a three-day visit to participate in the India-China high-level mechanism to increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It was part of the informal agreement between PM Modi and President Xi at the Wuhan Summit. Watch Video: Jaishanker's meeting on Monday took place in the backdrop of New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir which cropped up during the Jaishankar-Wang discussions. The Chinese foreign minister said: "There are some differences between our two countries, we don't shy away from those differences. We exchanged view on those matters in a candid manner regarding recent tensions between India and Pak, we made clear China's concerns and issues regarding China's sovereignty, we stated China's principled position." Jaishankar called for "mutual sensitivity to each other’s core concerns" and "properly managing differences" vital for India-China relations. "As our leaders agreed in Astana, differences should not become disputes. That is how India-China relations can remain a factor of stability in an uncertain world," he said. Meanwhile, China has called for Indian support to "pushback unilateralism, protectionism with concrete action" and "safeguard the status of China and India as developing countries" even as Bejing faces Washington's ire on the trade front. Both sides also concluded four MoUs on promoting cultural exchanges, enhancing cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, promoting exchanges between national sports associations and cooperation in museum management. The two foreign ministries have agreed on a plan of action for bilateral engagements for the year 2020 which marks 70 years of establishment of diplomatic ties. Jaishanker will be calling the Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday morning before leaving for Delhi. He called on Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Monday morning.

PM Modi, President Xi to meet in Varanasi on October 11

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-president-xi-to-meet-in-varanasi-on-october-11-report-242469">PM Modi, President Xi to meet in Varanasi on October 11: Report</a>

PM Modi will be meeting President Xi in Varanasi in October, sources have told WION. The meeting is likely to take place on October 11th, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flights-cancelled-in-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242407">Flights cancelled in Hong Kong airport as protests escalate</a>

Hong Kong airport authorities cancelled all remaining departing and arriving flights at the major travel hub on Monday after thousands of protesters entered the arrivals hall to stage a demonstration.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammua-and-kashmir-omar-abdullah-and-mehbooba-mufti-fight-it-out-at-srinagars-hari-niwas-palace-242437">Jammu and Kashmir: Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti 'fight it out' at Srinagar's Hari Niwas Palace</a>

Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-to-reach-moons-orbit-on-august-20-says-isro-chairman-k-sivan-242446">Chandrayaan-2 to reach moon's orbit on August 20, says ISRO chairman K Sivan</a>

Chandrayaan-2, the second generation moon mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20, chairman K Sivan said on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-floods-death-toll-due-to-landslide-climbs-to-59-242443">Myanmar floods: Death toll due to landslide climbs to 59</a>

Vast swathes of southeastern Myanmar lie under floodwaters that have already forced tens of thousands to flee their homes as the death toll from a massive landslide hit 59, firefighters said Monday.

PM Modi, President Xi to meet in Varanasi on October 11: Report PM Modi will be meeting President Xi in Varanasi in October, sources have told WION. The meeting is likely to take place on October 11th, reports said.

PM Modi, President Xi to meet in Varanasi on October 11: Report PM Modi will be meeting President Xi in Varanasi in October, sources have told WION. The meeting is likely to take place on October 11th, reports said. Flights cancelled in Hong Kong airport as protests escalate Hong Kong airport authorities cancelled all remaining departing and arriving flights at the major travel hub on Monday after thousands of protesters entered the arrivals hall to stage a demonstration. Jammu and Kashmir: Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti 'fight it out' at Srinagar's Hari Niwas Palace Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two. Chandrayaan-2 to reach moon's orbit on August 20, says ISRO chairman K Sivan Chandrayaan-2, the second generation moon mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20, chairman K Sivan said on Monday. Myanmar floods: Death toll due to landslide climbs to 59 Vast swathes of southeastern Myanmar lie under floodwaters that have already forced tens of thousands to flee their homes as the death toll from a massive landslide hit 59, firefighters said Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will leave for a three-day visit to China beginning Sunday to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

This will be the External Affairs Minister`s first visit to China after assuming office. During the visit from August 11 to 13, Jaishankar will co-chair the second HLM meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"The HLM reflects the desire on both sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture and sports," a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The decision to establish the HLM was taken during the maiden informal summit between Modi and Xi in Wuhan in April last year. The inaugural HLM meeting was held on December 21 last year in New Delhi.

"The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries," the statement said.

Jaishankar will also exchange views with his Chinese counterpart on the entire gamut of India-China bilateral relations, including upcoming high-level visits later this year, as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest.

The External Affairs Minister`s visit to China comes amid spiralling tensions between India and Pakistan after New Delhi revoked Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories. A rattled Pakistan has "rejected" India`s move, saying it will consider "all possible options" to counter the steps.&nbsp;

Islamabad then decided to downgrade bilateral relations with New Delhi and suspended bilateral trade, leading to rising of tensions in the region.

Jaishankar`s visit also comes after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited China to raise the Kashmir issue with the Chinese leadership and seek Beijing`s support to take the matter to the UN.

China had recently objected to India`s decision to strip special status to Jammu and Kashmir, in response to which New Delhi strictly maintained that the move was an internal matter. Jaishankar had met Wang in Bangkok last week where both leaders exchanged views on ways and means of further strengthening India-China relations.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will leave for a three-day visit to China beginning Sunday to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will leave for a three-day visit to China beginning Sunday to co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism (HLM) on cultural and people-to-people exchanges. This will be the External Affairs Minister`s first visit to China after assuming office. During the visit from August 11 to 13, Jaishankar will co-chair the second HLM meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. "The HLM reflects the desire on both sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture and sports," a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The decision to establish the HLM was taken during the maiden informal summit between Modi and Xi in Wuhan in April last year. The inaugural HLM meeting was held on December 21 last year in New Delhi. "The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries," the statement said. Jaishankar will also exchange views with his Chinese counterpart on the entire gamut of India-China bilateral relations, including upcoming high-level visits later this year, as well as regional and global issues of mutual interest. The External Affairs Minister`s visit to China comes amid spiralling tensions between India and Pakistan after New Delhi revoked Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into two Union Territories. A rattled Pakistan has "rejected" India`s move, saying it will consider "all possible options" to counter the steps. Islamabad then decided to downgrade bilateral relations with New Delhi and suspended bilateral trade, leading to rising of tensions in the region. Jaishankar`s visit also comes after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited China to raise the Kashmir issue with the Chinese leadership and seek Beijing`s support to take the matter to the UN. China had recently objected to India`s decision to strip special status to Jammu and Kashmir, in response to which New Delhi strictly maintained that the move was an internal matter. Jaishankar had met Wang in Bangkok last week where both leaders exchanged views on ways and means of further strengthening India-China relations.

Jaishankar to embark on 3-day China visit from Sunday; bilateral and regional issues on agenda

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation."

India's 'act east'&nbsp;policy that evolved from the "look east" policy call for greater engagement with ASEAN countries.&nbsp;

Talking about connectivity with ASEAN, EAM said, "India seeks greater connectedness with the ASEAN region. We envision connectivity with the region in very broad terms including physical, economic and political connectivity and close contact at people to people level."

Adding, "The historic, cultural, economic political that have existed between India and ASEAN region are the stepping stones to achieve the vision of a more connected India and ASEAN region and a closer partnership."

The ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting which was co-chaired by EAM and Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai also reviewed progress on implementation of decisions between ASEAN and India during the 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit held in New Delhi on 25 January 2018.&nbsp;

The Indo-pacific concept is expected to dominate conversations in Bangkok as Delhi and Washington are both keen on it and ASEAN has also issued its outlook on it.

"I was heartened to see ASEAN recently released its outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which also supports sovereignty, transparency, good governance, a rules-based order, among many other things" US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said during his opening remarks at U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial in Thailand on Thursday.

Prime Minister Modi had spoken about India's vision Indo-pacific concept last year at Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore and this year in Maldivian parliament and said New Delhi is vision is an inclusive one.&nbsp;

EAM also participated in 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of he counterparts on the sidelines of the Asean plus gathering. These were Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy &nbsp;Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab, Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan, &nbsp;Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Chinese FM Wang Yi.&nbsp;

EAM goes to China later this month for a preparatory visit for the 2nd India China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year.&nbsp;

On day 2 of his visit, Jaishankar will be participating at the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) &amp; 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation.

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation." India's 'act east' policy that evolved from the "look east" policy call for greater engagement with ASEAN countries. Talking about connectivity with ASEAN, EAM said, "India seeks greater connectedness with the ASEAN region. We envision connectivity with the region in very broad terms including physical, economic and political connectivity and close contact at people to people level." Adding, "The historic, cultural, economic political that have existed between India and ASEAN region are the stepping stones to achieve the vision of a more connected India and ASEAN region and a closer partnership." The ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting which was co-chaired by EAM and Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai also reviewed progress on implementation of decisions between ASEAN and India during the 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit held in New Delhi on 25 January 2018. The Indo-pacific concept is expected to dominate conversations in Bangkok as Delhi and Washington are both keen on it and ASEAN has also issued its outlook on it. "I was heartened to see ASEAN recently released its outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which also supports sovereignty, transparency, good governance, a rules-based order, among many other things" US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said during his opening remarks at U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial in Thailand on Thursday. Prime Minister Modi had spoken about India's vision Indo-pacific concept last year at Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore and this year in Maldivian parliament and said New Delhi is vision is an inclusive one. EAM also participated in 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of he counterparts on the sidelines of the Asean plus gathering. These were Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab, Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan, Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Chinese FM Wang Yi. EAM goes to China later this month for a preparatory visit for the 2nd India China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year. On day 2 of his visit, Jaishankar will be participating at the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) & 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Day-1 of S Jaishankar in Thailand: Focus on Act East, Indo-Pacific and meeting 10 foreign ministers

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday assured that the Indian government is working to ensure the early release and repatriation of 18 Indians on board the British-flagged tanker which has been detained by Iran.

"#TeamMEA is already working on the early release &amp; repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Our Embassy in Tehran is in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this. We will keep you posted on further developments," said Jaishankar, in a reply to Kerala Chief Minister office tweet.

Jaishankar shared the update after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reached out to Center and the EAM to confirm whether, among 18 Indians, four were Malayalis."Media reports have indicated that the crew of the British tanker seized by Iran includes 4 Malayalis. Following this, CM Pinarayi Vijayan has contacted the Union Government. He has also sent a message to Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs GoI," said CMO Kerala.

Iran on Saturday seized a British-flagged vessel. Following the seizure, cargo vessel owner said that there were 23 people on board with 18 Indian nationals, a statement issued by company Stena Bulk said, as quoted by CNN.&nbsp;

The vessel owner has also said that the crew is in good health."Our insurers in the region have been in contact with the Head of Marine Affairs at the Port of Bandar Abbas, who has reported that the crew members of our vessel Stena Impero are in 'good health' and that the tanker is at the nearby Bandar Bahonar anchorage," the company statement added.&nbsp;

The United Kingdom has called Iran's actions to seize its tanker as "dangerous" and "illegal."The United States, France and Germany have condemned Iran`s actions.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday assured that the Indian government is working to ensure the early release and repatriation of 18 Indians on board the British-flagged tanker which has been detained by Iran.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday assured that the Indian government is working to ensure the early release and repatriation of 18 Indians on board the British-flagged tanker which has been detained by Iran. "#TeamMEA is already working on the early release & repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Our Embassy in Tehran is in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this. We will keep you posted on further developments," said Jaishankar, in a reply to Kerala Chief Minister office tweet. Jaishankar shared the update after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reached out to Center and the EAM to confirm whether, among 18 Indians, four were Malayalis."Media reports have indicated that the crew of the British tanker seized by Iran includes 4 Malayalis. Following this, CM Pinarayi Vijayan has contacted the Union Government. He has also sent a message to Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs GoI," said CMO Kerala. Iran on Saturday seized a British-flagged vessel. Following the seizure, cargo vessel owner said that there were 23 people on board with 18 Indian nationals, a statement issued by company Stena Bulk said, as quoted by CNN. The vessel owner has also said that the crew is in good health."Our insurers in the region have been in contact with the Head of Marine Affairs at the Port of Bandar Abbas, who has reported that the crew members of our vessel Stena Impero are in 'good health' and that the tanker is at the nearby Bandar Bahonar anchorage," the company statement added. The United Kingdom has called Iran's actions to seize its tanker as "dangerous" and "illegal."The United States, France and Germany have condemned Iran`s actions.

Ministry of External Affairs working for early release of 18 Indian on board Iran-seized tanker: S Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister(EAM) S Jaishankar and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secretary-of-state-of-state-mike-pompeo-meets-pm-modi-in-new-delhi-230479">US secretary of state Mike Pompeo</a> held a joint press conference in Delhi today with both leaders intent on taking India-US relations further.

EAM S Jaishankar during the press meet said that the Indo-Pacific concept was not "against somebody" asserting that it was about "peace, security, stability and prosperity."

Jaishankar and Pompeo touched on a number of issues during their meeting, especially on terrorism. &nbsp;Jaishankar reiterated India's position on "zero tolerance for cross- border terrorism".

"India and the United States have a strategic partnership and that is actually based on deep and broad convergence which has been steadily growing over last many years," Jaishankar said at the press meet.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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"Both as countries and as foreign ministers, harmonising our interests and our views, that's really the task of diplomacy. Obviously, from time to time in any relationship, specific issues will arise," he said.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said US-India partnership has already reached new heights including in "defence corporation" with the common vision &nbsp;for "free and open Indo-Pacific."

"We can see each other not just as bilateral partners, but something much bigger than that, so that we can help each other all around the world," the US secretary of state said. 
&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister(EAM) S Jaishankar and US secretary of state Mike Pompeo held a joint press conference in Delhi today with both leaders intent on taking India-US relations further.

India's external affairs minister(EAM) S Jaishankar and US secretary of state Mike Pompeo held a joint press conference in Delhi today with both leaders intent on taking India-US relations further. EAM S Jaishankar during the press meet said that the Indo-Pacific concept was not "against somebody" asserting that it was about "peace, security, stability and prosperity." Jaishankar and Pompeo touched on a number of issues during their meeting, especially on terrorism. Jaishankar reiterated India's position on "zero tolerance for cross- border terrorism". "India and the United States have a strategic partnership and that is actually based on deep and broad convergence which has been steadily growing over last many years," Jaishankar said at the press meet. "Both as countries and as foreign ministers, harmonising our interests and our views, that's really the task of diplomacy. Obviously, from time to time in any relationship, specific issues will arise," he said. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said US-India partnership has already reached new heights including in "defence corporation" with the common vision for "free and open Indo-Pacific." "We can see each other not just as bilateral partners, but something much bigger than that, so that we can help each other all around the world," the US secretary of state said.

We see India not just as bilateral partner, but something much bigger, Pompeo during joint press conference with Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha poll from Gujarat, scheduled on July 5.

Jaishankar reached Ahmedabad on Monday evening, hours after he officially joined the BJP in the presence of BJPs working president J P Nadda in Delhi.

Jaishankar, 64, had served as the Foreign Secretary in the previous Modi-led government. He was inducted into the Union cabinet in Modi's second term. 
 
Gujarat BJP OBC cell president Jugalji Thakor also filed his papers for the second Rajya Sabha seat from Gujarat. 
 
The two seats were vacated after BJP leaders Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha last month. 
 
As per norms, a minister who is not a member of Parliament has to be elected to either House within six months of his or her swearing in. 
 
Thakor is from Mehsana district and belongs to the dominant Thakor community in the state. 
 
Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and state BJP chief Jitu Vaghani were present as Jaishankar and Thakor submitted their nomination forms to the returning officer C B Pandya. 
 
The last date of submitting nomination papers is June 25, while scrutiny of papers would be conducted on June 26, and the last date of withdrawal is June 28. 
 
Given its strength in the Assembly, the BJP is set to win both the seats, especially as the election will be held separately as per the Election Commissions notification. 
 
Upset over the Election Commissions notification, the Congress had moved the Supreme Court seeking its direction to the poll body to hold the elections to the two seats together, as this gives a chance to the opposition party to win at least one seat. 
 
The apex court refused to entertain the plea.&nbsp;The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha poll from Gujarat, scheduled on July 5. Jaishankar reached Ahmedabad on Monday evening, hours after he officially joined the BJP in the presence of BJPs working president J P Nadda in Delhi.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha poll from Gujarat, scheduled on July 5. Jaishankar reached Ahmedabad on Monday evening, hours after he officially joined the BJP in the presence of BJPs working president J P Nadda in Delhi. Jaishankar, 64, had served as the Foreign Secretary in the previous Modi-led government. He was inducted into the Union cabinet in Modi's second term. Gujarat BJP OBC cell president Jugalji Thakor also filed his papers for the second Rajya Sabha seat from Gujarat. The two seats were vacated after BJP leaders Amit Shah and Smriti Irani were elected to the Lok Sabha last month. As per norms, a minister who is not a member of Parliament has to be elected to either House within six months of his or her swearing in. Thakor is from Mehsana district and belongs to the dominant Thakor community in the state. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and state BJP chief Jitu Vaghani were present as Jaishankar and Thakor submitted their nomination forms to the returning officer C B Pandya. The last date of submitting nomination papers is June 25, while scrutiny of papers would be conducted on June 26, and the last date of withdrawal is June 28. Given its strength in the Assembly, the BJP is set to win both the seats, especially as the election will be held separately as per the Election Commissions notification. Upset over the Election Commissions notification, the Congress had moved the Supreme Court seeking its direction to the poll body to hold the elections to the two seats together, as this gives a chance to the opposition party to win at least one seat. The apex court refused to entertain the plea. The Congress has fielded Gaurav Pandya and Chandrika Chudasama for the two Rajya Sabha seats.

S Jaishankar files nomination papers for Rajya Sabha poll

Citing the popular election slogan "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-two-day-visit-to-kyrgyzstan-begins-from-thursday-will-meet-xi-putin-226559">Modi hai to mumkin hai</a>", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

"As Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi said in his latest campaign, 'Modi hai to mumkin hai,' or 'Modi makes it possible', I'm looking forward to exploring what's possible between our people," Pompeo said in his major India policy speech at the India Ideas Summit of US-India Business Council on Wednesday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sco-opportunities-challenges-for-india-226666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Very much looking forward to his trip to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-sco-summit-member-countries-say-india-has-important-role-to-play-226250">New Delhi later this month</a>, and meeting Modi, and his new counterpart, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo listed out some of the "big ideas and big opportunities" that can take the bilateral relationship to a new level.

Giving a sneak preview of his India mission, he said he truly believes the two nations have a unique opportunity to move forward together for the good of their peoples, the Indo-Pacific region, and the world.

Pompeo will travel to India, Sri Lanka, Japan and South Korea from June 24 to 30. His four-nation is aimed at deepening US partnerships in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.

Pompeo said under President Donald Trump, the US has taken defence cooperation to newer heights, solidified their common vision for the Indo-Pacific and taken a far tougher stand on Pakistan's unacceptable support for terrorism.

Now the Trump and Modi Administrations have a "unique opportunity to take this special partnership even further", Pompeo said he has a strong partner in his new counterpart, Jaishankar, a former ambassador to the United States.

"He said in a speech in April that he's ready to cultivate warmer relations with America and the feeling is mutual. We want to move ahead," he said and enumerated how that can be done.

First, the two countries have to build ever-stronger relationships, he said.

"Forging strong ties means formalising these individual friendships. Last year, we kicked off the '2+2 dialogue' alongside the Department of Defence. We've also reinvigorated the Quad Dialogue among India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, all like-minded democracies in the Indo-Pacific. These are all good steps," he said.

India and the US, he said, must embrace the strategic framework that works for both the nations.&nbsp;

"We respect India as a sovereign power, with its own unique politics and strategic challenges. We realise it's different to deal with the likes of China or Pakistan from across an ocean than across a border," he said.

Making a strong case for a free and open Indo-Pacific, he said it starts from the premise that the two share common values of democracy, freedom, and a belief in the ingenuity of the human spirit. "It's only natural that the world's most populous democracy should partner with the world's oldest democracy to maintain their shared vision for the Indo-Pacific."

"Third, we have to deliver," Pompeo said.

The Trump Administration has already enabled American companies to export more high technology items to India, including cutting-edge defence platforms like armed UAVs and ballistic missile defence systems. "We've already launched the Asia-EDGE programme, to help India raise private capital to meet its energy security and access needs," he said.

"These are solid achievements, but we want to do much more. We clearly have overlapping interests in defence, energy, and space," said the top American diplomat.

Pompeo said the first batch of India's Apache helicopters are coming off Boeing's production line in Arizona. Lockheed Martins F-21 and Boeing's F/A-18 are state-of-the-art fighters that could give India the capabilities it needs to become a full-fledged security provider in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.

"On energy, we want to complete the Westinghouse civil nuclear project, and deliver more American LNG and crude," he said adding that these steps will give Indians reliable and abundant energy and help reduce dependence on regimes like Iran and Venezuela.

On space, NASA is already working with the Indian Space Research Organisation on the world's most advanced earth-observation satellite and India's second lunar mission. 
But differences remain in some of the key trade and business issues, he acknowledged.&nbsp;

"But we remain open to dialogue and hope our Indian friends will drop their trade barriers and trust in the competitiveness of their exporters and private-sector companies," he said.

Pompeo said the US will also push for the free flow of data across borders, not just to help American companies but to protect data and ensure consumer privacy. 
The US is eager to help India establish secure communications networks including 5G networks, he said.

Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen.

Citing the popular election slogan "Modi hai to mumkin hai", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has sought to take the bilateral relationship with India to the next level and said the Trump and Modi administrations have a "unique opportunity" to make it happen. "As Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi said in his latest campaign, 'Modi hai to mumkin hai,' or 'Modi makes it possible', I'm looking forward to exploring what's possible between our people," Pompeo said in his major India policy speech at the India Ideas Summit of US-India Business Council on Wednesday. Very much looking forward to his trip to New Delhi later this month, and meeting Modi, and his new counterpart, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo listed out some of the "big ideas and big opportunities" that can take the bilateral relationship to a new level. Giving a sneak preview of his India mission, he said he truly believes the two nations have a unique opportunity to move forward together for the good of their peoples, the Indo-Pacific region, and the world. Pompeo will travel to India, Sri Lanka, Japan and South Korea from June 24 to 30. His four-nation is aimed at deepening US partnerships in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. Pompeo said under President Donald Trump, the US has taken defence cooperation to newer heights, solidified their common vision for the Indo-Pacific and taken a far tougher stand on Pakistan's unacceptable support for terrorism. Now the Trump and Modi Administrations have a "unique opportunity to take this special partnership even further", Pompeo said he has a strong partner in his new counterpart, Jaishankar, a former ambassador to the United States. "He said in a speech in April that he's ready to cultivate warmer relations with America and the feeling is mutual. We want to move ahead," he said and enumerated how that can be done. First, the two countries have to build ever-stronger relationships, he said. "Forging strong ties means formalising these individual friendships. Last year, we kicked off the '2+2 dialogue' alongside the Department of Defence. We've also reinvigorated the Quad Dialogue among India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, all like-minded democracies in the Indo-Pacific. These are all good steps," he said. India and the US, he said, must embrace the strategic framework that works for both the nations. "We respect India as a sovereign power, with its own unique politics and strategic challenges. We realise it's different to deal with the likes of China or Pakistan from across an ocean than across a border," he said. Making a strong case for a free and open Indo-Pacific, he said it starts from the premise that the two share common values of democracy, freedom, and a belief in the ingenuity of the human spirit. "It's only natural that the world's most populous democracy should partner with the world's oldest democracy to maintain their shared vision for the Indo-Pacific." "Third, we have to deliver," Pompeo said. The Trump Administration has already enabled American companies to export more high technology items to India, including cutting-edge defence platforms like armed UAVs and ballistic missile defence systems. "We've already launched the Asia-EDGE programme, to help India raise private capital to meet its energy security and access needs," he said. "These are solid achievements, but we want to do much more. We clearly have overlapping interests in defence, energy, and space," said the top American diplomat. Pompeo said the first batch of India's Apache helicopters are coming off Boeing's production line in Arizona. Lockheed Martins F-21 and Boeing's F/A-18 are state-of-the-art fighters that could give India the capabilities it needs to become a full-fledged security provider in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. "On energy, we want to complete the Westinghouse civil nuclear project, and deliver more American LNG and crude," he said adding that these steps will give Indians reliable and abundant energy and help reduce dependence on regimes like Iran and Venezuela. On space, NASA is already working with the Indian Space Research Organisation on the world's most advanced earth-observation satellite and India's second lunar mission. But differences remain in some of the key trade and business issues, he acknowledged. "But we remain open to dialogue and hope our Indian friends will drop their trade barriers and trust in the competitiveness of their exporters and private-sector companies," he said. Pompeo said the US will also push for the free flow of data across borders, not just to help American companies but to protect data and ensure consumer privacy. The US is eager to help India establish secure communications networks including 5G networks, he said.

Modi 'hai to mumkin hai', says Pompeo ahead of India visit

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-to-embark-on-first-bilateral-visit-to-bhutan-today-225120">letter to S Jaishankar </a>congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India. Jaishankar took charge last Friday and was the former foreign secretary.

In the letter, Qureshi advocated talks between the two countries. India and Pakistan ties have been frayed since the Pulwama terror attack which took place on February, 14th, whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM).&nbsp;

This comes in the backdrop of the visit of Pakistani foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. MEA has clarified that his visit was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between the Pakistan foreign secretary and Indian officials.

Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs has dismissed reports of any meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization(SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi had asked the Pak prime minister to create an environment free of terror.

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a letter to S Jaishankar congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India.

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a letter to S Jaishankar congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India. Jaishankar took charge last Friday and was the former foreign secretary. In the letter, Qureshi advocated talks between the two countries. India and Pakistan ties have been frayed since the Pulwama terror attack which took place on February, 14th, whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM). This comes in the backdrop of the visit of Pakistani foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. MEA has clarified that his visit was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between the Pakistan foreign secretary and Indian officials. Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs has dismissed reports of any meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization(SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi had asked the Pak prime minister to create an environment free of terror.

Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi writes to external affairs minister Jaishankar, advocates talks

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will embark on a two-day visit to Bhutan on Friday for his first bilateral trip after assuming charge of the ministry.

The visit reflects the importance that India attaches to its bilateral relationship with Bhutan, a close friend, and neighbour, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement.

During the visit, Jaishankar is expected to receive an audience with King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, call on Prime Minister Lyonchhen Dr. Lotay Tshering and meet his counterpart Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji.

During the visit, the two sides will discuss the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including the upcoming high-level exchanges, economic development and hydro-power cooperation, the statement said.

"India and Bhutan share a unique and time tested bilateral relationship, characterized by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding. External Affairs Minister`s visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular visits and exchange of views at the high levels between the two countries," it further said.

On May 30, Tshering and other BIMSTEC leaders had attended the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the BJP achieved a massive victory in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will embark on a two-day visit to Bhutan on Friday for his first bilateral trip after assuming charge of the ministry. The visit reflects the importance that India attaches to its bilateral relationship with Bhutan, a close friend, and neighbour, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will embark on a two-day visit to Bhutan on Friday for his first bilateral trip after assuming charge of the ministry. The visit reflects the importance that India attaches to its bilateral relationship with Bhutan, a close friend, and neighbour, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement. During the visit, Jaishankar is expected to receive an audience with King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, call on Prime Minister Lyonchhen Dr. Lotay Tshering and meet his counterpart Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji. During the visit, the two sides will discuss the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including the upcoming high-level exchanges, economic development and hydro-power cooperation, the statement said. "India and Bhutan share a unique and time tested bilateral relationship, characterized by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding. External Affairs Minister`s visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular visits and exchange of views at the high levels between the two countries," it further said. On May 30, Tshering and other BIMSTEC leaders had attended the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the BJP achieved a massive victory in the Lok Sabha elections.

Jaishankar to embark on first bilateral visit to Bhutan today

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-former-foreign-secretary-a-surprise-pick-in-team-modi-20-222869">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial".

"Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet.

The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation.&nbsp;

On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation.

"Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries. Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial". "Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet. The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation. On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation. "Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.

S Jaishankar holds telephonic conversations with foreign ministers of France, Turkey

Engaging with the Twitterverse for the first time, newly appointed External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar paid homage to his predecessor Sushma Swaraj on Saturday.

"My first tweet. Thank you all for the best wishes! Honoured to be given this responsibility. Proud to follow on the footsteps of @SushmaSwaraj ji," Jaishankar`s first tweet read.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
My first tweet. 
 
Thank you all for the best wishes! 
Honoured to be given this responsibility. 
Proud to follow on the footsteps of <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ji
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1134685620834582529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">surprise addition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest Union Cabinet</a>, the former Foreign Secretary succeeds Swaraj in helming the Ministry of External Affairs for the next five years under the NDA government.

Swaraj opted out of contesting in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections citing her health. She spearheaded various rescue operations during her term, including those in Libya and Yemen.

The former EAM was much-loved by people for being one of the most approachable ministers, known for hearing out and solving grievances on Twitter.

Jaishankar pledged to follow the precedent set by her, and tweeted, "We at Team @MEAIndia continue to be at your service 24x7. Happy to be leading the effort with my colleague MoS Muraleedharan ji."

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We at Team <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> continue to be at your service 24x7 
 
Happy to be leading the effort with my colleague MoS Muraleedharan ji <a href="https://twitter.com/VMBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VMBJP</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1134687081245171713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The EAM went on to express his gratitude for the wishes extended by his counterparts from Australia, France and Indonesia, who tweeted their greetings for the former top diplomat.

Both Jaishankar and the new Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, assumed office on May 31, following the official announcement regarding portfolio allocations.

"Back at South Block, in a new role! The new External Affairs Minister of India @DrSJaishankar assumes office," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted on Friday.

A former career diplomat, the 1977-batch IFS officer and Padma Shri awardee served as the Foreign Secretary for three years - from 2015 until his retirement in 2018 - under Modi's previous term as Prime Minister.

He had earlier served as India's Ambassador to China and then to the US. The incumbent EAM has previously been India`s Ambassador to the Czech Republic and High Commissioner to Singapore as well.

He was also the First Secretary and Political Advisor to the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka.

It is believed that Modi first met Jaishankar when he travelled to China as the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2012.

The former diplomat played a critical role in handling tough negotiations with Beijing, following the incursion in Doklam and Ladakh`s Depsang.

He is also known as the Indian government`s key strategist for China and the US.

In 2008, Jaishankar was a member of the team which negotiated the landmark Indo-US nuclear deal under the UPA government headed by then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.&nbsp;

Engaging with the Twitterverse for the first time, newly appointed External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar paid homage to his predecessor Sushma Swaraj on Saturday.

Engaging with the Twitterverse for the first time, newly appointed External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar paid homage to his predecessor Sushma Swaraj on Saturday. "My first tweet. Thank you all for the best wishes! Honoured to be given this responsibility. Proud to follow on the footsteps of @SushmaSwaraj ji," Jaishankar`s first tweet read. My first tweet. Thank you all for the best wishes! Honoured to be given this responsibility. Proud to follow on the footsteps of @SushmaSwaraj ji — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 1, 2019 × A surprise addition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest Union Cabinet, the former Foreign Secretary succeeds Swaraj in helming the Ministry of External Affairs for the next five years under the NDA government. Swaraj opted out of contesting in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections citing her health. She spearheaded various rescue operations during her term, including those in Libya and Yemen. The former EAM was much-loved by people for being one of the most approachable ministers, known for hearing out and solving grievances on Twitter. Jaishankar pledged to follow the precedent set by her, and tweeted, "We at Team @MEAIndia continue to be at your service 24x7. Happy to be leading the effort with my colleague MoS Muraleedharan ji." We at Team @MEAIndia continue to be at your service 24x7 Happy to be leading the effort with my colleague MoS Muraleedharan ji @VMBJP — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 1, 2019 × The EAM went on to express his gratitude for the wishes extended by his counterparts from Australia, France and Indonesia, who tweeted their greetings for the former top diplomat. Both Jaishankar and the new Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, assumed office on May 31, following the official announcement regarding portfolio allocations. "Back at South Block, in a new role! The new External Affairs Minister of India @DrSJaishankar assumes office," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted on Friday. A former career diplomat, the 1977-batch IFS officer and Padma Shri awardee served as the Foreign Secretary for three years - from 2015 until his retirement in 2018 - under Modi's previous term as Prime Minister. He had earlier served as India's Ambassador to China and then to the US. The incumbent EAM has previously been India`s Ambassador to the Czech Republic and High Commissioner to Singapore as well. He was also the First Secretary and Political Advisor to the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka. It is believed that Modi first met Jaishankar when he travelled to China as the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2012. The former diplomat played a critical role in handling tough negotiations with Beijing, following the incursion in Doklam and Ladakh`s Depsang. He is also known as the Indian government`s key strategist for China and the US. In 2008, Jaishankar was a member of the team which negotiated the landmark Indo-US nuclear deal under the UPA government headed by then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Proud to follow in Sushma Swaraj's footsteps, says new External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar will embark on a four-day visit to USA from Tuesday and is expected to discuss bilateral issues including India&#39;s concerns over a possible clamp-down on H1-B visas and safety of Indians in the country.

Jaishankar will also hold talks on regional and international issues of mutual interest with senior members of the Donald Trump administration during the country, PTI reported.

Indian officials said Jaishankar would convey India&#39;s view to the US that Indian IT companies were contributing to the American economy by increasing the competitiveness of their firms. They added that the government was engaged with the Trump administration as well as members of the US Congress on concerns regarding the H1-B visa issue.

Jaishankar&#39;s visit will take place barely days after the killing of an Indian engineer in in Kansas in an apparent incident of hate crime. The foreign secretary is expected to discuss the issue of safety of Indian nationals in the country as well.

The H1-B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialised fields. IT companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year.

(WION with inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

He is expected to convey India's view that its IT companies are contributing to USA's economy by increasing competitiveness of their firms

Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar will embark on a four-day visit to USA from Tuesday and is expected to discuss bilateral issues including India's concerns over a possible clamp-down on H1-B visas and safety of Indians in the country. Jaishankar will also hold talks on regional and international issues of mutual interest with senior members of the Donald Trump administration during the country, PTI reported. Indian officials said Jaishankar would convey India's view to the US that Indian IT companies were contributing to the American economy by increasing the competitiveness of their firms. They added that the government was engaged with the Trump administration as well as members of the US Congress on concerns regarding the H1-B visa issue. Jaishankar's visit will take place barely days after the killing of an Indian engineer in in Kansas in an apparent incident of hate crime. The foreign secretary is expected to discuss the issue of safety of Indian nationals in the country as well. The H1-B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specialised fields. IT companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year. (WION with inputs from PTI)

India's top diplomat S Jaishankar set to visit US over H1-B visa concerns

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