<p>India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar&nbsp;credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s changed attitude at international fora, and a&nbsp;reason for India finding its place at the high table of diplomacy.</p>

<p>In an interview with ANI, Jaishankar said, "It is a different world, a different India. It is a different Prime Minister. It is a different government. And that is why you have all that you haven't seen in the past."</p>

<p>When asked about a consensus on G-20 joint communique, Jaishankar said that&nbsp;G-20 is a collective exercise.</p>

<p>"We will deal with it in that. Look, we are India. You know we are India. We know how to handle the world. Believe me, especially in the last ten years we have shown how we can handle the world," Jaishankar told news agency ANI ahead of G-20 summit in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked about Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov's comment that Russian wanted Ukraine crisis to be included in the declaration, and if it's the muscle flexing before the summit, Jaishankar said:&nbsp;"Well, that may be the way you would characterise it. I mean, for me, anybody would try to put across their national position, try to maximise their negotiating position if you would. I think you should wait and see what actually happens in the negotiation, not prejudge it purely in terms of what may be said on one occasion. And what the media interpretation of what was said on one occasion."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;G20's role in shaping the future of global trade</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20s-role-in-shaping-the-future-of-global-trade-632827/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Speaking on India taking up the voice of the Global South to G20, the minister said that no other presidency had aimed at getting developing countries together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No other G-20 presidency has tried to get together developing countries who are not on the table and say -- please come, sit with us, tell us what are your concerns. And we will distil those concerns and place them before the G-20. That is a unique exercise," the foreign affairs minister said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Jaishankar said that India has a special responsibility in this changing world scenario.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"I see it more for India as a responsibility, that we have the responsibility today in a very difficult world. How do you bring people together? How do you make everybody understand that we all have a bigger responsibility and therefore please, can we kind of get our act together here and do what is right by the world," he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The External Affairs minister said he hoped that the G20 nations would understand their responsibilities to other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-stresses-g20-summit-to-be-defined-by-positions-taken-not-leaders-attendance-632671">Jaishankar says G20 Summit to be defined by positions taken, not leaders' attendance</a></strong><br />
<br />
"India has a reputation of being a constructive player. Someone who bridges&nbsp;divides, who kind of somewhere helps to fix problems. I am confident that every one of the G20 nations coming to Delhi will understand the responsibility that they bear. That the other 180 countries of the world are looking to them to set directions and that they cannot afford to fail them," he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The minister said that the participation of every citizen of the country in some way in the summit was assuring.<br />
<br />
"One of the big pluses of the G20 is really how much more interested the people of India, especially the young people of India, have got about foreign policy and they need it because look, this is a globalised era," he said.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s changed attitude at international fora, and a reason for India finding its place at the high table of diplomacy.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s changed attitude at international fora, and a reason for India finding its place at the high table of diplomacy. In an interview with ANI, Jaishankar said, "It is a different world, a different India. It is a different Prime Minister. It is a different government. And that is why you have all that you haven't seen in the past." When asked about a consensus on G-20 joint communique, Jaishankar said that G-20 is a collective exercise. "We will deal with it in that. Look, we are India. You know we are India. We know how to handle the world. Believe me, especially in the last ten years we have shown how we can handle the world," Jaishankar told news agency ANI ahead of G-20 summit in New Delhi. Asked about Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov's comment that Russian wanted Ukraine crisis to be included in the declaration, and if it's the muscle flexing before the summit, Jaishankar said: "Well, that may be the way you would characterise it. I mean, for me, anybody would try to put across their national position, try to maximise their negotiating position if you would. I think you should wait and see what actually happens in the negotiation, not prejudge it purely in terms of what may be said on one occasion. And what the media interpretation of what was said on one occasion." Also watch | G20's role in shaping the future of global trade × Speaking on India taking up the voice of the Global South to G20, the minister said that no other presidency had aimed at getting developing countries together. "No other G-20 presidency has tried to get together developing countries who are not on the table and say -- please come, sit with us, tell us what are your concerns. And we will distil those concerns and place them before the G-20. That is a unique exercise," the foreign affairs minister said. Jaishankar said that India has a special responsibility in this changing world scenario. "I see it more for India as a responsibility, that we have the responsibility today in a very difficult world. How do you bring people together? How do you make everybody understand that we all have a bigger responsibility and therefore please, can we kind of get our act together here and do what is right by the world," he said. The External Affairs minister said he hoped that the G20 nations would understand their responsibilities to other countries. Also read | Jaishankar says G20 Summit to be defined by positions taken, not leaders' attendance "India has a reputation of being a constructive player. Someone who bridges divides, who kind of somewhere helps to fix problems. I am confident that every one of the G20 nations coming to Delhi will understand the responsibility that they bear. That the other 180 countries of the world are looking to them to set directions and that they cannot afford to fail them," he said. The minister said that the participation of every citizen of the country in some way in the summit was assuring. "One of the big pluses of the G20 is really how much more interested the people of India, especially the young people of India, have got about foreign policy and they need it because look, this is a globalised era," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘We know how to handle the world,’ says EAM Jaishankar on delivering consensus-based G20 statement

<p>In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided. The statement published by the Kremlin said on Monday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-third-news-company-shutters-amid-chinese-crackdown-on-dissent-441939" hreflang="en">Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent</a></strong></p>

<p>The statement said, “We affirm that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. As nuclear use would have far-reaching consequences, we also affirm that nuclear weapons — for as long as they continue to exist — should serve defensive purposes, deter aggression, and prevent war." &nbsp;</p>

<p>This development comes as bilateral ties between the United States and Moscow have deteriorated to the lowest point since the end of the Cold War. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-defense-academy-hit-by-cyber-attack-significant-damage-caused-441960" hreflang="en">UK’s Defense Academy hit by cyber attack; 'significant' damage caused</a></strong></p>

<p>Not just this, the relations between Washington and China are also at a new low. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said the statement could trigger rise in mutual trust and "replace competition among major powers with coordination and cooperation." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Zhaoxu added that China has a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, Xinhua reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided.

In a joint statement, five nuclear powers, namely Russia, Britain, China, the United States and France, are of the view that a further spread of nuclear arms and a nuclear war should be avoided. The statement published by the Kremlin said on Monday. These five nations, who are the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, look to avoid war between the nuclear states and reduce strategic risks. They also want to work with all nations to create an atmosphere of security. Also Read | Hong Kong: Third news company shutters amid Chinese crackdown on dissent The statement said, “We affirm that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. As nuclear use would have far-reaching consequences, we also affirm that nuclear weapons — for as long as they continue to exist — should serve defensive purposes, deter aggression, and prevent war." This development comes as bilateral ties between the United States and Moscow have deteriorated to the lowest point since the end of the Cold War. Also Read: UK’s Defense Academy hit by cyber attack; 'significant' damage caused Not just this, the relations between Washington and China are also at a new low. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu said the statement could trigger rise in mutual trust and "replace competition among major powers with coordination and cooperation." Zhaoxu added that China has a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, Xinhua reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Five most powerful countries of the world vow to avoid nuke war

<p>Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism &amp; terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. <a href="https://t.co/io5oIvFzTX">pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098139150442610688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://t.co/MmSprEgg1J">pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1098137457239998464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".&nbsp;</p>


Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said. "We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added. Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them. Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism & terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai #IndiaSaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × "We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation. He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world. Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners". He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".

Will 'cooperate on all fronts' against terror: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India

<p>Nepalese Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a joint statement in Kathmandu, Nepal on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Relations between neighbours are different from others. Neighbours have always been our top priority," said Oli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Nepal. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We agreed to take concrete measures to realise the benefits of new partnership for agriculture and connectivity by rail links and waterways," said Oli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have agreed to address all matters by September 19, our Constitution Day," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-modis-nepal-visit-faith-infrastructure-and-connectivity-135959">PM Modi's Nepal visit will focus on infrastructure and connectivity, but mostly faith</a></p>

<p>Oli added that he had asked Modi to facilitate the exchange of demonetised currency notes held in the Nepali banking system and by general public at the earliest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nepal has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-has-146-million-in-demonetised-notes-wants-india-to-change-them-128340">$146 million in demonetised notes</a> and wants India to change them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nepal se mere bahut purana naata raha hai (my relationship with Nepal is very old)," said Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Lekin Pradhan mantri ke roop mein Nepal ki ye meri teesri yatra hai (But this is my third visit to Nepal as PM),"&nbsp;Modi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am visiting Nepal at a very special time when elections have been successfully conducted here at federal, provincial and local levels," said Modi.</p>

<p>"India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nepal," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Oli issue a joint statement in Kathmandu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nepal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nepal</a> <a href="https://t.co/WYjmg31kv0">https://t.co/WYjmg31kv0</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/994960529188732928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Oli laid the foundation stone of Arun 3- hydro power project in Kathmandu <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nepal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nepal</a> <a href="https://t.co/IgfVqY3uvJ">pic.twitter.com/IgfVqY3uvJ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/994960931309338624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


'Relations between neighbours are different from others. Neighbours have always been our top priority,' said Oli

Nepalese Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a joint statement in Kathmandu, Nepal on Friday. "Relations between neighbours are different from others. Neighbours have always been our top priority," said Oli. Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Nepal. "We agreed to take concrete measures to realise the benefits of new partnership for agriculture and connectivity by rail links and waterways," said Oli. "We have agreed to address all matters by September 19, our Constitution Day," he added. Also read: PM Modi's Nepal visit will focus on infrastructure and connectivity, but mostly faith Oli added that he had asked Modi to facilitate the exchange of demonetised currency notes held in the Nepali banking system and by general public at the earliest. Nepal has $146 million in demonetised notes and wants India to change them. "Nepal se mere bahut purana naata raha hai (my relationship with Nepal is very old)," said Modi. "Lekin Pradhan mantri ke roop mein Nepal ki ye meri teesri yatra hai (But this is my third visit to Nepal as PM)," Modi added. "I am visiting Nepal at a very special time when elections have been successfully conducted here at federal, provincial and local levels," said Modi. "India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nepal," he added. #WATCH: PM Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Oli issue a joint statement in Kathmandu #Nepal https://t.co/WYjmg31kv0 — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2018 × PM Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Oli laid the foundation stone of Arun 3- hydro power project in Kathmandu #Nepal pic.twitter.com/IgfVqY3uvJ — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2018 ×

'Neighbours have always been our top priority,' says Nepal PM Oli as he & Modi issue joint statement

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Hassan Rouhan held bilateral talks today during which trade, investment, energy, defence, security among other issues were discussed. The two sides also inked nine pacts, including one on double taxation avoidance.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Hassan Rouhan held a substantive and productive discussion on cooperation in trade and investment, energy, connectivity, defence and security and other regional issues, tweeted External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Iran signed a total of nine agreements earlier in the day focussing on Iran&#39;s Chabahar port. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the significance of the Chabahar port stating that it helped in boosting trade between the two nations.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: PM Narendra Modi &amp; President of Iran Hassan Rouhani issue joint postal stamp. <a href="https://t.co/Q4RSmcF6tF">pic.twitter.com/Q4RSmcF6tF</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/964787849534083073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>PM Modi welcomed the Iranian President and noted that an Iranian president was visiting India after a decade. He also noted that the ties between Iran and India have strengthened significantly under Rouhani&#39;s leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thank you for the way you provided leadership in developing Chabahar Port: PM Narendra Modi to Iran President Dr <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HassanRouhani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HassanRouhani</a> <a href="https://t.co/Tzavzxb6Lm">pic.twitter.com/Tzavzxb6Lm</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/964787343076012032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>The Prime Minister thanked his Iranian counterpart for developing the Chabahar port and noted: &quot;We want to enhance connectivity&quot;.</p>

<p>He further noted that the two countries want to see neighbouring Afghanistan safe, prosperous and free from terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The two countries want to see our neighbor Afghanistan safe and prosper. We want to see our neighbors free of terrorism: PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/98bYhcSERn">pic.twitter.com/98bYhcSERn</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/964787964470579200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Rouhani, after taking the stage, identified the relationship between India and Iran not just a diplomatic one but &quot;historical and civilisational&quot; as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that he&nbsp;discussed issues revolving around trade, tariffs, visa among others with his Indian counterpart.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We are determined to combat terrorism and extremism,&rdquo; Rouhani noted adding further that regional conflicts must be resolved through diplomacy and political initiatives.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The relations between the two countries goes beyond trade &amp; business, it goes back in history: Iran President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HassanRouhani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HassanRouhani</a> <a href="https://t.co/hO07xY0DZf">pic.twitter.com/hO07xY0DZf</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/964788758167121920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>The Iranian president expressed his desire to boost&nbsp;railway relations between the two countries.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We share views on 2 crucial issues - transit &amp; economy. We want to develop railway relations between the 2 countries &amp; are seeing development of Chabahar Port: Iran President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HassanRouhani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HassanRouhani</a> <a href="https://t.co/EEIRD7kNnE">pic.twitter.com/EEIRD7kNnE</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/964789360875929602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

<p>Rouhani is on a three-day visit to India. The Iranian President also interacted with President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi earlier today.</p>

<p>Rouhani&nbsp;received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan after he reached the Capital from Hyderabad.</p>


We are determined to combat terrorism and extremism: President Rouhani

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Hassan Rouhan held bilateral talks today during which trade, investment, energy, defence, security among other issues were discussed. The two sides also inked nine pacts, including one on double taxation avoidance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Hassan Rouhan held a substantive and productive discussion on cooperation in trade and investment, energy, connectivity, defence and security and other regional issues, tweeted External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. India and Iran signed a total of nine agreements earlier in the day focussing on Iran's Chabahar port. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the significance of the Chabahar port stating that it helped in boosting trade between the two nations. #Delhi: PM Narendra Modi & President of Iran Hassan Rouhani issue joint postal stamp. pic.twitter.com/Q4RSmcF6tF — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2018 × PM Modi welcomed the Iranian President and noted that an Iranian president was visiting India after a decade. He also noted that the ties between Iran and India have strengthened significantly under Rouhani's leadership. I thank you for the way you provided leadership in developing Chabahar Port: PM Narendra Modi to Iran President Dr #HassanRouhani pic.twitter.com/Tzavzxb6Lm — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2018 × The Prime Minister thanked his Iranian counterpart for developing the Chabahar port and noted: "We want to enhance connectivity". He further noted that the two countries want to see neighbouring Afghanistan safe, prosperous and free from terrorism. The two countries want to see our neighbor Afghanistan safe and prosper. We want to see our neighbors free of terrorism: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/98bYhcSERn — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2018 × Rouhani, after taking the stage, identified the relationship between India and Iran not just a diplomatic one but "historical and civilisational" as well. He said that he discussed issues revolving around trade, tariffs, visa among others with his Indian counterpart. "We are determined to combat terrorism and extremism,” Rouhani noted adding further that regional conflicts must be resolved through diplomacy and political initiatives. The relations between the two countries goes beyond trade & business, it goes back in history: Iran President #HassanRouhani pic.twitter.com/hO07xY0DZf — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2018 × The Iranian president expressed his desire to boost railway relations between the two countries. We share views on 2 crucial issues - transit & economy. We want to develop railway relations between the 2 countries & are seeing development of Chabahar Port: Iran President #HassanRouhani pic.twitter.com/EEIRD7kNnE — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2018 × Rouhani is on a three-day visit to India. The Iranian President also interacted with President Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi earlier today. Rouhani received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan after he reached the Capital from Hyderabad.

Iran, India ink nine pacts after 'substantive' dialogues on wide range of issues

<p>Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba&rsquo;s five&ndash;day official visit to Delhi from August 23, 2017, comes at a crucial time in the&nbsp;India-Nepal bilateral relationship. PM Deuba led a high-level delegation, including minister of foreign affair, minister of finance, and minister of culture as well as members of parliament and of the business communities of Nepal. Considering this visit was the&nbsp;fourth high-level visit from Nepal to India in the last one-and-half years, it indicates political instability in the region and, more importantly, Nepal&rsquo;s political dependency on India as well as the fragile turn the diplomatic relationship between the two countries has taken in the post-constitution period.</p>

<p>Deuba&#39;s recent visit can be looked upon as an attempt from both the sides to reduce the trust deficit emanated due to non-acknowledgement of the new Nepali constitution by India. Since long, Kathmandu-based elites and political parties have assumed that India has been using minority rights issue to derail the constitution-making process.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>Deuba&#39;s recent visit can be looked upon as an attempt from both the sides to reduce the trust deficit emanated due to non-acknowledgement of the new Nepali constitution by India.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Deuba's recent visit can be looked upon as an attempt from both the sides to reduce the trust deficit emanated due to non-acknowledgement of the new Nepali constitution by India. " target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>The ongoing visit has coincided with the border face-off at Doklam area since June 2017 between Nepal&rsquo;s two giant neighbours. It is known that China has formally briefed Nepal about developments at Doklam. China also discussed that issue during Chinese Vice&ndash;Premier&rsquo;s visit to Nepal early this month. Nepal, in fact, responded to the situation by making its stand clear that it would take a neutral position, in case tension escalates in future.</p>

<p>The visit has also come at a time when Deuba is facing a great challenge to address the demands of the minority groups of Nepal and amidst intra-party factionalism in the Nepali Congress (NC). Both these issues are equally important for India, as it has been trying to consolidate liberal democratic forces in Nepal as well as&nbsp;minimise anti-India sentiments propagated by ultra-nationalist parties like the CPN-UML and the RPP-Nepal. It would be pertinent to mention that China seems to favour a Left-coalition government with the support of the RPP after provincial and parliamentary elections, which is going to be held in November 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are mixed reactions on the visit both in Nepal and India. Certain sections in both the countries feel that the visit has been extremely successful. First, in comparison to two earlier visits, PM Modi had two unscheduled one-on-one meeting with PM Deuba before the formal delegation-level meeting on August 24. Indian PM also crossed the protocol and invited Deuba to his residence for a discussion. Later, both the leaders at the press briefing agreed that they had comprehensive talks on all aspects of the bilateral relationship.</p>

<p>Some Nepali delegations, in fact, felt that the meetings were held in an atmosphere of utmost cordiality and tone and tenor was impressive. That indicated that both the leaders had managed to reduce the trust deficit at the highest-level, which was missing since September 2015. Second, a detailed joint statement (JS) with 46-points was issued after the delegation level meeting. Both the countries also signed eight MoUs which emphasised on earthquake reconstruction, border infrastructures and bilateral trade. The JS stated that, both the leaders agreed to enhance cooperation on flood management, defence and security cooperation, cross border energy, electricity transmission and connectivity infrastructure, cultural tourism and affirmative action to address Nepal&rsquo;s growing trade deficit with India.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>It is estimated that the Indian investment in Nepal might go up to $5 billion in areas of cross border transmission lines, tourism, education, hydropower development and agriculture.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=It is estimated that the Indian investment in Nepal might go up to $5 billion in areas of cross border transmission lines, tourism, education, hydropower development and agriculture." target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>Thirdly, after a decade, for the first-time Indian business houses were enthusiastic to invest in the Nepali market after their meetings with PM Deuba on August 23. During the business delegation meeting, PM Deuba invited Indian companies to invest in Nepal. He argued that Nepal has brought major changes in its investment rules and that much political stability will be ensured under the new constitution. Indian business houses, in fact, responded to PM Deuba&rsquo;s invitation positively. It is estimated that the Indian investment in Nepal might go up to $5 billion in areas of cross border transmission lines, tourism, education, hydropower development and agriculture. Fourth, the body language of both the leaders looked warm and comfortable. Both the leaders inaugurated two cross border transmission lines which would add another 100 MW to existing 350 MW3 power supply to Nepal from India.</p>

<p>PM Modi, in fact, accepted PM Deuba&rsquo;s invitation to visit Nepal and inaugurate the Arun-III hydro project. During the visit, PM Deuba also called on India&rsquo;s President and Vice-President and held meetings with the minister of external affairs, minister of finance and the Opposition leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, some observers have labelled the visit as routine and ceremonial one which did not bring much substance to the bilateral relations. First, like previous two visits, this visit might also fail to reduce anti-India sentiments in Nepal as India did not acknowledge the new constitution. This small gesture could have immensely helped the liberal democratic forces of Nepal to perform better in the forthcoming elections. A large number of Nepali people thought that given the personal rapport of Deuba with PM Modi, he might convince Delhi to mention that issue in the JS. Back home, the Opposition parties might take advantage of this.</p>

<p>Second, before departing for Delhi, PM Deuba had consulted former policy makers and academicians. They&nbsp;suggested PM Deuba to have a discussion in India on issues pertaining to the national interest of Nepal, such as border disputes with India, exchange of old Indian currency, delay in implementation of projects and restrictions on Nepali agro products, etc. Although many of those issues were already mentioned in the JS, it appeared that clarity was missing on certain issues.</p>

<p>Third, and most importantly, a large number of Deuba&rsquo;s business delegation members felt that some of the major projects assured by India in the JS might not be implemented on time and others might not be completed on time. Privately, they expressed lack of trust on Indian funded projects.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>If India wants liberal democratic forces to remain in power, then it has to work on war footings to implement the projects and issues discussed in the JS.</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=If India wants liberal democratic forces to remain in power, then it has to work on war footings to implement the projects and issues discussed in the JS. " target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>Clearly, the implementation of the agreements inked during this visit remains a major challenge before both the Deuba government and India. Nepal government has already declared both provincial and parliamentary elections in November and December respectively. If India wants liberal democratic forces to remain in power, then it has to work on war footings to implement the projects and issues discussed in the JS. That would help liberal democratic forces like the NC to regain voters&rsquo; confidence along with India. The opposition parties and anti-India forces could project India as an interventionist power and the NC as a pro-India party. Therefore, both the NC and India must work together to make some people-centric projects successful before the elections. At the same time, India should take note of Nepali sentiments. The impression in Delhi is that everything is achievable in Nepal by giving more aid, funds and maintaining the LoC. That, in fact, brings negativity in the relationship. Nepal does not look for resources from India always. Given the changing situation, a large section of the Nepalis expects India to respect Nepal&rsquo;s sensitivity as an independent country.&nbsp;</p>


Doklam crisis indicates that India can only earn the support of Nepal by being respectful to the country.

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s five–day official visit to Delhi from August 23, 2017, comes at a crucial time in the India-Nepal bilateral relationship. PM Deuba led a high-level delegation, including minister of foreign affair, minister of finance, and minister of culture as well as members of parliament and of the business communities of Nepal. Considering this visit was the fourth high-level visit from Nepal to India in the last one-and-half years, it indicates political instability in the region and, more importantly, Nepal’s political dependency on India as well as the fragile turn the diplomatic relationship between the two countries has taken in the post-constitution period. Deuba's recent visit can be looked upon as an attempt from both the sides to reduce the trust deficit emanated due to non-acknowledgement of the new Nepali constitution by India. Since long, Kathmandu-based elites and political parties have assumed that India has been using minority rights issue to derail the constitution-making process. Deuba's recent visit can be looked upon as an attempt from both the sides to reduce the trust deficit emanated due to non-acknowledgement of the new Nepali constitution by India. × The ongoing visit has coincided with the border face-off at Doklam area since June 2017 between Nepal’s two giant neighbours. It is known that China has formally briefed Nepal about developments at Doklam. China also discussed that issue during Chinese Vice–Premier’s visit to Nepal early this month. Nepal, in fact, responded to the situation by making its stand clear that it would take a neutral position, in case tension escalates in future. The visit has also come at a time when Deuba is facing a great challenge to address the demands of the minority groups of Nepal and amidst intra-party factionalism in the Nepali Congress (NC). Both these issues are equally important for India, as it has been trying to consolidate liberal democratic forces in Nepal as well as minimise anti-India sentiments propagated by ultra-nationalist parties like the CPN-UML and the RPP-Nepal. It would be pertinent to mention that China seems to favour a Left-coalition government with the support of the RPP after provincial and parliamentary elections, which is going to be held in November 2017. There are mixed reactions on the visit both in Nepal and India. Certain sections in both the countries feel that the visit has been extremely successful. First, in comparison to two earlier visits, PM Modi had two unscheduled one-on-one meeting with PM Deuba before the formal delegation-level meeting on August 24. Indian PM also crossed the protocol and invited Deuba to his residence for a discussion. Later, both the leaders at the press briefing agreed that they had comprehensive talks on all aspects of the bilateral relationship. Some Nepali delegations, in fact, felt that the meetings were held in an atmosphere of utmost cordiality and tone and tenor was impressive. That indicated that both the leaders had managed to reduce the trust deficit at the highest-level, which was missing since September 2015. Second, a detailed joint statement (JS) with 46-points was issued after the delegation level meeting. Both the countries also signed eight MoUs which emphasised on earthquake reconstruction, border infrastructures and bilateral trade. The JS stated that, both the leaders agreed to enhance cooperation on flood management, defence and security cooperation, cross border energy, electricity transmission and connectivity infrastructure, cultural tourism and affirmative action to address Nepal’s growing trade deficit with India. It is estimated that the Indian investment in Nepal might go up to $5 billion in areas of cross border transmission lines, tourism, education, hydropower development and agriculture. × Thirdly, after a decade, for the first-time Indian business houses were enthusiastic to invest in the Nepali market after their meetings with PM Deuba on August 23. During the business delegation meeting, PM Deuba invited Indian companies to invest in Nepal. He argued that Nepal has brought major changes in its investment rules and that much political stability will be ensured under the new constitution. Indian business houses, in fact, responded to PM Deuba’s invitation positively. It is estimated that the Indian investment in Nepal might go up to $5 billion in areas of cross border transmission lines, tourism, education, hydropower development and agriculture. Fourth, the body language of both the leaders looked warm and comfortable. Both the leaders inaugurated two cross border transmission lines which would add another 100 MW to existing 350 MW3 power supply to Nepal from India. PM Modi, in fact, accepted PM Deuba’s invitation to visit Nepal and inaugurate the Arun-III hydro project. During the visit, PM Deuba also called on India’s President and Vice-President and held meetings with the minister of external affairs, minister of finance and the Opposition leaders. However, some observers have labelled the visit as routine and ceremonial one which did not bring much substance to the bilateral relations. First, like previous two visits, this visit might also fail to reduce anti-India sentiments in Nepal as India did not acknowledge the new constitution. This small gesture could have immensely helped the liberal democratic forces of Nepal to perform better in the forthcoming elections. A large number of Nepali people thought that given the personal rapport of Deuba with PM Modi, he might convince Delhi to mention that issue in the JS. Back home, the Opposition parties might take advantage of this. Second, before departing for Delhi, PM Deuba had consulted former policy makers and academicians. They suggested PM Deuba to have a discussion in India on issues pertaining to the national interest of Nepal, such as border disputes with India, exchange of old Indian currency, delay in implementation of projects and restrictions on Nepali agro products, etc. Although many of those issues were already mentioned in the JS, it appeared that clarity was missing on certain issues. Third, and most importantly, a large number of Deuba’s business delegation members felt that some of the major projects assured by India in the JS might not be implemented on time and others might not be completed on time. Privately, they expressed lack of trust on Indian funded projects. If India wants liberal democratic forces to remain in power, then it has to work on war footings to implement the projects and issues discussed in the JS. × Clearly, the implementation of the agreements inked during this visit remains a major challenge before both the Deuba government and India. Nepal government has already declared both provincial and parliamentary elections in November and December respectively. If India wants liberal democratic forces to remain in power, then it has to work on war footings to implement the projects and issues discussed in the JS. That would help liberal democratic forces like the NC to regain voters’ confidence along with India. The opposition parties and anti-India forces could project India as an interventionist power and the NC as a pro-India party. Therefore, both the NC and India must work together to make some people-centric projects successful before the elections. At the same time, India should take note of Nepali sentiments. The impression in Delhi is that everything is achievable in Nepal by giving more aid, funds and maintaining the LoC. That, in fact, brings negativity in the relationship. Nepal does not look for resources from India always. Given the changing situation, a large section of the Nepalis expects India to respect Nepal’s sensitivity as an independent country.

Earning Nepal' trust is India's best bet to counter China

joint-statement

Joint Statement, News on Joint Statement, stories on Joint Statement, articles on Joint Statement, Joint Statement stories at Wion, Joint Statement news, Joint Statement latest news