India has demanded on Thursday that Pakistan should grant consular access to two Indian nationals detained in Pakistan.

"We hope that these two Indian nationals (Prashant and Bari Lal) are not used or they do not become victim of Pakistani propaganda. We have approached the govt of Pakistan and requested for immediate consular access," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a media briefing.

"Seen reports that two Indian nationals inadvertently crossed over to Pakistan sometime in 2016-17. We had informed the Pakistan officials. Since then, we did not get any response. The sudden announcement of arrest is a matter of surprise to us," Raveesh Kumar added.

India has demanded on Thursday that Pakistan should grant consular access to two Indian nationals detained in Pakistan. "We hope that these two Indian nationals (Prashant and Bari Lal) are not used or they do not become victim of Pakistani propaganda.

India has demanded on Thursday that Pakistan should grant consular access to two Indian nationals detained in Pakistan. "We hope that these two Indian nationals (Prashant and Bari Lal) are not used or they do not become victim of Pakistani propaganda. We have approached the govt of Pakistan and requested for immediate consular access," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a media briefing. "Seen reports that two Indian nationals inadvertently crossed over to Pakistan sometime in 2016-17. We had informed the Pakistan officials. Since then, we did not get any response. The sudden announcement of arrest is a matter of surprise to us," Raveesh Kumar added.

We hope arrested Indians don't become victims of Pakistani propaganda: MEA

Reacting to Nepal government's comments to the new Indian Map, India has said that not only it depicts India's territory accurately, but Kathmandu should "guard against vested interests trying to create differences between India and Nepal."

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar in response to a question in the weekly presser said, " Our map accurately depicts the sovereign territory of India. The new map has in no manner revised our boundary with Nepal."&nbsp;

Nepal government on Wednesday in a statement said Kalapani, which is part of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is Nepali territory. The territory borders China and Nepal.

In a statement, the Nepal government said, "Nepal is committed to protecting its international borders. Nepal is steadfast in its commitment that any border-related issues between the two friendly nations should be resolved through diplomatic channels based on historical documents, facts and proofs."

The Indian foreign ministry spokesperson while highlighting that "boundary delineation exercise with Nepal is ongoing under the existing mechanism" reiterated New Delhi's commitment to " find a solution through dialogue in the spirit of our close and friendly bilateral relations."

India earlier this month released a new map, which depicts the newly form union territories of - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Reacting to Nepal government's comments to the new Indian Map, India has said that not only it depicts India's territory accurately, but Kathmandu should "guard against vested interests trying to create differences between India and Nepal.

Reacting to Nepal government's comments to the new Indian Map, India has said that not only it depicts India's territory accurately, but Kathmandu should "guard against vested interests trying to create differences between India and Nepal." Ministry of external affairs spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar in response to a question in the weekly presser said, " Our map accurately depicts the sovereign territory of India. The new map has in no manner revised our boundary with Nepal." Nepal government on Wednesday in a statement said Kalapani, which is part of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, is Nepali territory. The territory borders China and Nepal. In a statement, the Nepal government said, "Nepal is committed to protecting its international borders. Nepal is steadfast in its commitment that any border-related issues between the two friendly nations should be resolved through diplomatic channels based on historical documents, facts and proofs." The Indian foreign ministry spokesperson while highlighting that "boundary delineation exercise with Nepal is ongoing under the existing mechanism" reiterated New Delhi's commitment to " find a solution through dialogue in the spirit of our close and friendly bilateral relations." India earlier this month released a new map, which depicts the newly form union territories of - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

No change in boundary with Nepal, claims Ministry of external affairs

MEA on Opening of Kartarpur; Conflicting reports coming in from Pakistan. To know more watch the video.

MEA on Opening of Kartarpur; Conflicting reports coming in from Pakistan

Indian Ministry of External Affairs briefs on the outcomes of PM Modi-Mohammad Bin Salman bilateral talks. Let's listen in...

MEA briefs on the outcomes of PM Modi-Mohammad Bin Salman bilateral talks

External Affairs Ministry briefs press over PM's visit to Saudi Arabia. Watch video to know more.

External Affairs Ministry briefs press over PM's visit to Saudi Arabia

India does not see Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to China ahead of President Xi Jinping's informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'hyphenation', the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) sources said on Wednesday.

Imran Khan's mission Kashmir in China

Imran Khan's China visit ahead of Xi-PM Modi meeting

Expressing deep concern at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-did-not-give-green-light-to-turkeys-syria-incursion-mike-pompeo-254950">'unilateral military offensive'</a> by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

On Wednesday, Turkish jets and artillery targeted Kurdish-controlled areas in Syria, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes.

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We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. 
 
We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion.<a href="https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof">https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1182251797668233226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Issuing a statement, Ministry of External Affairs said: "We are deeply concerned at the unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria. Turkey’s actions can undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism. Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress."

"We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Expressing deep concern at the 'unilateral military offensive' by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria.

Expressing deep concern at the 'unilateral military offensive' by Turkey in north-east Syria, India on Thursday called upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. On Wednesday, Turkish jets and artillery targeted Kurdish-controlled areas in Syria, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion.https://t.co/HuIzEYGbof — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) October 10, 2019 × Issuing a statement, Ministry of External Affairs said: "We are deeply concerned at the unilateral military offensive by Turkey in north-east Syria. Turkey’s actions can undermine stability in the region and the fight against terrorism. Its action also has the potential for causing humanitarian and civilian distress." "We call upon Turkey to exercise restraint and respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We urge the peaceful settlement of all issues through dialogue and discussion," the MEA said. (With inputs from agencies)

India expresses deep concern over Turkey's attack on Syria, calls it 'unilateral'

The first secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Maitra holds the official designation of the Deputy Secretary (DS) of the Policy Planning and Research (PP&R) Division. An IFS officer of the 2008 batch, she was awarded the EAM's Ambassador Bimal Sanyal Memorial Prize Gold Medal Best Officer Trainee in 2009.

Who is Vidisha Maitra?

Pakistan's foreign ministry has said that there will be no second consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav. Responding to WION's question in the weekly presser, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said, "There is no other meeting". India's response is still awaited on the latest development.

No second consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav: Pakistan FM spokesperson

Pakistan has denied second consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking: Pakistan denies second consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav

Gravitas: MEA: Jadhav under extreme pressure in Pakistan

The country came to a standstill when the news of former external affairs minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-was-waiting-to-see-this-day-in-my-lifetime-said-sushma-swaraj-in-final-tweet-241263">Sushma Swaraj's sudden demise</a> made headlines on Tuesday night.&nbsp;

"Iron lady", "affable person", "extraordinary parliamentarian", "prolific orator"&nbsp;were some of the phrases of praise used for Swaraj in her memory by political leaders, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swarajs-demise-is-a-personal-loss-pm-modi-241253">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.&nbsp;

Besides her strong personality and her indelible contribution to the growth of the Bharatiya Janata Party and her service to the nation, Swaraj will also be remembered as a soft-spoken person who bore empathy and worked tirelessly.&nbsp;

Many remember her as the most approachable foreign minister, who responded to every distress call addressed to her with utmost urgency and sensitivity - a minister who brought foreign policy to aam admi.&nbsp;

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Even if you are stuck on the Mars, Indian Embassy there will help you. <a href="https://t.co/Smg1oXKZXD">https://t.co/Smg1oXKZXD</a>
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/872653636849082368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2017</a></blockquote>
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"Even if you are stuck on the Mars, Indian Embassy there will help you," Swaraj had tweeted in 2017.&nbsp;

Swaraj's loss leaves behind an irreparable void in the political fabric of the country.&nbsp;

The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds.

<img alt="swaraj" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d776cb3-c636-4025-a64b-eeecddb490ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/swaraj%20image.jpg" />

Swaraj effectively handled diplomacy during the surgical strikes, aerial strikes and the Doklam stand-off with China. Her efforts to help the diaspora in their hour of need were widely noted and appreciated and she brought the ministry closer to the citizens.&nbsp;

She had friends across the political spectrum and was held in high regard by all leaders of all parties.

Born on February 14, 1952, at Ambala in Haryana to a middle-class family, she studied law from Panjab University Chandigarh, and in 1973 registered as an advocate. She married lawyer Swaraj Kaushal, who later served as governor of Mizoram.

She was active till her last breath, her last tweet came on Tuesday after the Parliament passed the bill to reorganise Jammu and Kashmir and resolution to repeal Article 370.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67</div>

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"Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," she tweeted hours before she passed away, exhibiting that the nation and her government were on her mind till her last breath.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sushma-swarajs-political-career-linked-to-rise-rise-of-bjp-241254">Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi</a> after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their tributes to Swaraj at her residence in Delhi.&nbsp;

Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The country came to a standstill when the news of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj's sudden demise made headlines on Tuesday night. "Iron lady", "affable person", "extraordinary parliamentarian", "prolific orator" were some of the phrases of praise used for Swaraj in her memory by political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The country came to a standstill when the news of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj's sudden demise made headlines on Tuesday night. "Iron lady", "affable person", "extraordinary parliamentarian", "prolific orator" were some of the phrases of praise used for Swaraj in her memory by political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Besides her strong personality and her indelible contribution to the growth of the Bharatiya Janata Party and her service to the nation, Swaraj will also be remembered as a soft-spoken person who bore empathy and worked tirelessly. Many remember her as the most approachable foreign minister, who responded to every distress call addressed to her with utmost urgency and sensitivity - a minister who brought foreign policy to aam admi. Even if you are stuck on the Mars, Indian Embassy there will help you. https://t.co/Smg1oXKZXD — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) June 8, 2017 × "Even if you are stuck on the Mars, Indian Embassy there will help you," Swaraj had tweeted in 2017. Swaraj's loss leaves behind an irreparable void in the political fabric of the country. The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds. Swaraj effectively handled diplomacy during the surgical strikes, aerial strikes and the Doklam stand-off with China. Her efforts to help the diaspora in their hour of need were widely noted and appreciated and she brought the ministry closer to the citizens. She had friends across the political spectrum and was held in high regard by all leaders of all parties. Born on February 14, 1952, at Ambala in Haryana to a middle-class family, she studied law from Panjab University Chandigarh, and in 1973 registered as an advocate. She married lawyer Swaraj Kaushal, who later served as governor of Mizoram. She was active till her last breath, her last tweet came on Tuesday after the Parliament passed the bill to reorganise Jammu and Kashmir and resolution to repeal Article 370. Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67 "Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," she tweeted hours before she passed away, exhibiting that the nation and her government were on her mind till her last breath. Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour. President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their tributes to Swaraj at her residence in Delhi. Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours.

Sushma Swaraj brought foreign policy to people, addressed every distress call

External Affairs Minister S&nbsp;Jaishankar on Saturday said the Indian government is working for the early release and repatriation of all the 18 Indian crew members on board the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/owners-of-seized-british-flagged-oil-tanker-say-its-crew-is-in-good-health-238914">British-flagged tanker</a> which has been detained by the Revolutionary Guards of Iran (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz.

"We are focussed on the early release and repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Officers of our Embassy in Tehran have met them and they seem to be in good health with adequate supplies. We remain in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this," he said on Twitter.

Jaishankar shared the update after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K.Palaniswami brought to the notice of the Centre and MEA on the plight of Chennai-based Adithyaa Vasudevan, aged 27, along with 18 other Indian sailors, who were onboard when the UK registered ship Stena Impero was detained by Iran.

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We are focussed on the early release &amp; repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Officers of our Embassy in Tehran have met them &amp; they seem to be in good health with adequate supplies. We remain in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this <a href="https://t.co/TW5S85lK2U">https://t.co/TW5S85lK2U</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1157602871317155840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Palaniswami further wrote in the letter that Vasudevan, working in the ship as Third Officer, was sailing from Fujairah, UAE, to Jubail, Saudi Arabia, and was detained on July 19, along with 22 other sailors (including 18 Indians) at the Strait of Hormuz by the IRGC.

The father of Vasudevan has represented to the Tamil Nadu Government for his early release and repatriation.

"I request your good office to direct the authorities concerned and secure the immeditate release and repatriation of Vasudevan and other sailors to India," the Chief Minister wrote.

India had recently availed consular access to 18 Indian crew members on board the UK registered ship.Iran had last month seized the Stena Impero ship.

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'&nbsp;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.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said the Indian government is working for the early release and repatriation of all the 18 Indian crew members on board the British-flagged tanker which has been detained by the Revolutionary Guards of Iran (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said the Indian government is working for the early release and repatriation of all the 18 Indian crew members on board the British-flagged tanker which has been detained by the Revolutionary Guards of Iran (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz. "We are focussed on the early release and repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Officers of our Embassy in Tehran have met them and they seem to be in good health with adequate supplies. We remain in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this," he said on Twitter. Jaishankar shared the update after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K.Palaniswami brought to the notice of the Centre and MEA on the plight of Chennai-based Adithyaa Vasudevan, aged 27, along with 18 other Indian sailors, who were onboard when the UK registered ship Stena Impero was detained by Iran. We are focussed on the early release & repatriation of all 18 Indian crew members of Stena Impero. Officers of our Embassy in Tehran have met them & they seem to be in good health with adequate supplies. We remain in constant contact with Iranian authorities to resolve this https://t.co/TW5S85lK2U — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 3, 2019 × Palaniswami further wrote in the letter that Vasudevan, working in the ship as Third Officer, was sailing from Fujairah, UAE, to Jubail, Saudi Arabia, and was detained on July 19, along with 22 other sailors (including 18 Indians) at the Strait of Hormuz by the IRGC. The father of Vasudevan has represented to the Tamil Nadu Government for his early release and repatriation. "I request your good office to direct the authorities concerned and secure the immeditate release and repatriation of Vasudevan and other sailors to India," the Chief Minister wrote. India had recently availed consular access to 18 Indian crew members on board the UK registered ship.Iran had last month seized the Stena Impero ship. 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.

MEA working for early release of 18 Indian crew of ship seized by Iran: Jaishankar

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters.

The non-binding charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER, which is a platform that facilitates the use of space-based technologies for disaster management and emergency response.

"The National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) represents ISRO as a member of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER. By combining Earth observation assets from different space agencies, the charter allows resources and expertise to be coordinated for rapid response to major disaster situations," said Raveesh Kumar, MEA`s Spokesperson.

"Whenever there is a natural disaster, NRSC, and member space agencies of other 32 countries which are a part of the charter can activate the charter and then the charter seeks the information pertaining to the disaster-hit area available with all the 33 member space agencies," he added.

"This is the standard practice. Due to the heavy floods in India, the charter was activated on July 17 by NRSC. Under the charter, so far data has been received from eight countries, including USGS, CNES, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, Chinese National Space Agency (CNSA) and 3 others.ISRO has also provided information to other space agencies in response to similar requests," Kumar lastly said.

The Chinese Ambassador to India, Sun Weidong, had earlier said that China had provided India with satellite data related to the floods, which has seen widespread damage in regions like Assam, Manipur, Bihar, etc.

While infrastructural damage has been reported, scores of people have also lost their lives due to the floods. Several animals, including the vulnerable rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park, have also died in the calamity.&nbsp;

Rescue operations are currently underway in the affected regions.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said that as per "standard practice," it had received satellite data related to floods in different regions of the country from eight nations including US, Russia, and China, due to its membership of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The non-binding charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER, which is a platform that facilitates the use of space-based technologies for disaster management and emergency response. "The National Remote Sensing Center (NRSC) represents ISRO as a member of the International Charter Space and Major Disasters. The charter has been set up under the UN-SPIDER. By combining Earth observation assets from different space agencies, the charter allows resources and expertise to be coordinated for rapid response to major disaster situations," said Raveesh Kumar, MEA`s Spokesperson. "Whenever there is a natural disaster, NRSC, and member space agencies of other 32 countries which are a part of the charter can activate the charter and then the charter seeks the information pertaining to the disaster-hit area available with all the 33 member space agencies," he added. "This is the standard practice. Due to the heavy floods in India, the charter was activated on July 17 by NRSC. Under the charter, so far data has been received from eight countries, including USGS, CNES, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, Chinese National Space Agency (CNSA) and 3 others.ISRO has also provided information to other space agencies in response to similar requests," Kumar lastly said. The Chinese Ambassador to India, Sun Weidong, had earlier said that China had provided India with satellite data related to the floods, which has seen widespread damage in regions like Assam, Manipur, Bihar, etc. While infrastructural damage has been reported, scores of people have also lost their lives due to the floods. Several animals, including the vulnerable rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park, have also died in the calamity. Rescue operations are currently underway in the affected regions.

India received satellite data related to floods from 8 countries as per standard practice: MEA

Ministry of External Affairs rejects Trump's claim on mediation. Trump claimed that PM Modi sought intervention on Kashmir. MEA said any engagement subject to end to terror. Pakistan needs to end cross border terrorism. Shimla and Lahore declaration base for resolutions. MEA also said that there has been no such request made by PM Modi. Watch this video to know more.

U.S Representative: I apologized to Indian Ambassador on Trump's embarrassing mistake

MEA: All issues with Pakistan only bilateral

U.S representative to India: Trump's statement is amateurish

MEA rejects Trump's claim on mediation. Trump claimed that PM Modi sought intervention on Kashmir. Ministry of External Affairs said any engagement subject to end to terror. Pakistan needs to end cross border terrorism. Shimla and Lahore declaration base for resolutions. MEA also said that there has been no such request made by PM Modi. Watch this video to know more.

Trump offers to mediate on Kashmir

India rejects Trump's claim on mediation, no such requests made by PM Modi

In an exclusive conversation with Brahma Chellaney, Analyst from New Delhi over Trump's remarks on KashmirMinistry of External Affairs rejects Trump's claim on mediation. Trump claimed that PM Modi sought intervention on Kashmir. MEA said any engagement subject to end to terror. Pakistan needs to end cross border terrorism. Shimla and Lahore declaration base for resolutions. MEA also said that there has been no such request made by PM Modi. Watch this video to know more.

In exclusive conversation over Trump's remark over Kashmir with Brahma Chellaney, Analyst from New Delhi

Ministry of External Affairs rejects Trump's claim on mediation. Trump claimed that PM Modi sought intervention on Kashmir. MEA said any engagement subject to end to terror. Pakistan needs to end cross border terrorism. Shimla and Lahore declaration base for resolutions. MEA also said that there has been no such request made by PM Modi. U.S Representative said that He apologized to Indian Ambassador on Trump's embarrassing mistake. Watch this video to know more.

Trump & his govt not on the same page, US representative said Trump's statement is embarrassing

Amid the furor over US President Donald Trump's statement that India had asked for his intervention in the Kashmir problem, Rajya Sabha descended into chaos. As the Opposition protested and demanded a clarification from the government, External Affairs Minister S Jaishanakar reiterated India's stand that Kashmir is a bilateral issue. Making a statement in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar categorically assured the House that no such request has been made by Prime Minister Modi to the US president. "It has been India's consistent position that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are discussed only bilaterally. Any engagement with Pakistan would require an end to cross-border terrorism," S Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar clarifies India's stand on Trump’s Kashmir remark as Opposition cries 'PM Jawaab Do'

In exclusive conversation with Ahmer Shaheen, Senior Journalist from Pakistan on Trump's remark on Kashmir

India is closely following the recent developments pertaining to the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan and has been in constant touch will all major stakeholders in the matter, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

"As a close neighbour and an important stakeholder in Afghanistan, we are closely following the developments related to the peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. The US briefs on the talk from time to time," said Raveesh Kumar, the MEA.

"We are also in regular consultations with other active players like Afghanistan, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China on the issue," Kumar added.

In addition, the Ministry will hold talks with Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan on Wednesday on the matter.

Kumar added that India supports an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled national peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country.

India has maintained that the initiatives taken under the Afghan peace process must include all sections of Afghan society, including the legitimately elected government.

Additionally, the process itself should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, and should not lead to any ungoverned spaces where terrorists or their proxies could relocate.&nbsp;

India is closely following the recent developments pertaining to the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan and has been in constant touch will all major stakeholders in the matter, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

India is closely following the recent developments pertaining to the ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan and has been in constant touch will all major stakeholders in the matter, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. "As a close neighbour and an important stakeholder in Afghanistan, we are closely following the developments related to the peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. The US briefs on the talk from time to time," said Raveesh Kumar, the MEA. "We are also in regular consultations with other active players like Afghanistan, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China on the issue," Kumar added. In addition, the Ministry will hold talks with Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan on Wednesday on the matter. Kumar added that India supports an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled national peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country. India has maintained that the initiatives taken under the Afghan peace process must include all sections of Afghan society, including the legitimately elected government. Additionally, the process itself should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate, and should not lead to any ungoverned spaces where terrorists or their proxies could relocate.

India closely following peace, reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan: MEA

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019.&nbsp;

Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/international-court-of-justice-to-announce-verdict-in-kulbhushan-jadhav-case-on-july-17-233065">on July 17 by The International court of justice</a> (ICJ).

Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India."

The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments.

Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website."

Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared."

Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges.

India has been demanding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-writes-to-pakistan-for-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-207577">consular access to Jadhav</a> since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities.&nbsp;

Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging.

On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.

India and Pakistan are awaiting the verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17, 2019. Both the countries are sending their respective team to The Hague where the verdict will be announced at 6.30pm IST on July 17 by The International court of justice (ICJ). Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "We will have to wait till July 17. Not proper to speculate. We have submitted a memorial which is in the public domain. A team is going to represent the Government of India." The final oral hearing on the case took place between February 18 to 21, 2019 at the ICJ when both India and Pakistan presented their arguments. Spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Faisal Mohammed said, "We can not prejudge the verdict, however, we are prepared for the case comprehensively. Best lawyer was done and all institutions under the lead of Attorney General fought the case, all documents are on ICJ’s website." Adding, "Since the matter is subjudice, therefore, we can not comment on it. However, we expect positive results since our case was well prepared." Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges. India has been demanding consular access to Jadhav since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities. Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging. On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

India, Pakistan await verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case, MEA says 'not proper to speculate'

MEA briefing on PM Modi's bilaterals on day 2 of G20 Summit. Mr. Raveesh Kumar, Spokesperson of MEA gives all the details. Watch this video to know more.

MEA briefing on PM Modi's bilaterals on day 2 of G20 Summit

Pakistan's state-sponsored "large-scale industry of terrorism" prevents its government from behaving like a "normal neighbour", External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday.

India Watch: S.Jaishankar's scathing statement on Pak

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services.

Speaking at the Passport Seva Diwas in Delhi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "The Ministry has initiated discussions with the India Security Press regarding the project for the issue of chip-enabled e-passports to the citizens."

Explaining that the ministry has proposed to "pursue the manufacture of e-passports on priority" so that a "new passport booklet with advanced security features can be rolled out in the near future."

India Security Press in Nashik will be working on the chip-enabled e-passports which will have security features.

India issues more than one crore passports every year. The Indian government has introduced a number of reforms for the delivery of Passport which includes simplification of passport rules to launch of Passport Seva Kendras.&nbsp;

When it comes to simplification of the passport rule, self-attested documents are now acceptable and India has eased the process of getting passports for minors by their single parent and also for applicants who are either separated or divorced.

MEA along with Department of Posts has opened 505 Passport Seva Kendras since January 2017 so that citizens don't have to travel far to submit passport applications.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services. Speaking at the Passport Seva Diwas in Delhi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "The Ministry has initiated discussions with the India Security Press regarding the project for the issue of chip-enabled e-passports to the citizens." Explaining that the ministry has proposed to "pursue the manufacture of e-passports on priority" so that a "new passport booklet with advanced security features can be rolled out in the near future." India Security Press in Nashik will be working on the chip-enabled e-passports which will have security features. India issues more than one crore passports every year. The Indian government has introduced a number of reforms for the delivery of Passport which includes simplification of passport rules to launch of Passport Seva Kendras. When it comes to simplification of the passport rule, self-attested documents are now acceptable and India has eased the process of getting passports for minors by their single parent and also for applicants who are either separated or divorced. MEA along with Department of Posts has opened 505 Passport Seva Kendras since January 2017 so that citizens don't have to travel far to submit passport applications.

India working on chip-enabled e-passports: MEA

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson has slammed the US state department's 2018 International Religious Freedom report that alleged that some senior leaders of the BJP made inflammatory speeches against minority communities.

India rejects US global religious freedom report

Indian Ministry of External Affairs today briefed media in New Delhi regarding PM Modi's Sri Lanka & Maldives visit. Watch this video to know more.

MEA briefs on PM Modi's Sri Lanka & Maldives visit

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