Ministry of External Affairs of India is briefing media in New Delhi. Watch this video to know more.

Indian External Affairs Ministry briefs media

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced. This will be his first foreign visit in his second term.

The MEA in a release said, "visits to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will demonstrate the priority India attaches to its ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) Doctrine."

Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries.

During his Maldives visit, PM Modi will meet Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and&nbsp;other political leaders of the country.

The release said, "visit is reflective of the new momentum in high-level exchanges between India and Maldives."

During the visit, the PM Modi will address the Maldivian Parliament.

Last 6 months have seen a number of high-level visits between India and Maldives. PM Modi had visited the Indian Ocean island country during the oath-taking ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. This visit was followed by visits by Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid &amp; President Solih.

In March of this year Sushma Swaraj, in her capacity as the minister of external affairs under the Modi Govt's first term visited the country in which India announced 100 million rufiyaa grant.

While coming back from the Maldives, he will visit Sri Lanka on 9th.

During the first term of his govt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena was in India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan &amp; had a bilateral with PM later.

Bhutan was the first foreign country PM Modi visited in his 1st term after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, he addressed the joint session of Parliament.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced. This will be his first foreign visit in his second term. The MEA in a release said, "visits to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will demonstrate the priority India attaches to its ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) Doctrine." Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries. During his Maldives visit, PM Modi will meet Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and other political leaders of the country. The release said, "visit is reflective of the new momentum in high-level exchanges between India and Maldives." During the visit, the PM Modi will address the Maldivian Parliament. Last 6 months have seen a number of high-level visits between India and Maldives. PM Modi had visited the Indian Ocean island country during the oath-taking ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. This visit was followed by visits by Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid & President Solih. In March of this year Sushma Swaraj, in her capacity as the minister of external affairs under the Modi Govt's first term visited the country in which India announced 100 million rufiyaa grant. While coming back from the Maldives, he will visit Sri Lanka on 9th. During the first term of his govt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena was in India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan & had a bilateral with PM later. Bhutan was the first foreign country PM Modi visited in his 1st term after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, he addressed the joint session of Parliament.

PM Narendra Modi to visit Sri Lanka, Maldives in early June: Ministry of External Affairs

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China.&nbsp;

The MEA stated that the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other UN-authorised bodies will now take a decision on Azhar's listing, adding that "India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice."&nbsp;

The MEA's response was to a media query on discussions with China on the 1267 listing of JeM leader Masood Azhar during foreign secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-visits-china-talks-on-masood-azhar-possible-212484">Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Beijing</a>.&nbsp;

Gokhale's visit comes even as India and China mark one year since the Wuhan informal summit that took place in April 2018.

Foreign secretary Gokhale also called on the Chinese foreign minister and state councillor Wang Yi.

Meanwhile when asked about if Masood Azhar was raised by India during the talks, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "The common interests of China and India are far greater than the differences between the two sides."

"We hope that the two sides will continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation and maintain the positive momentum of the sound development of bilateral relations. In this regard, China is ready to work with India," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firmly-oppose-forcing-new-resolution-through-unsc-on-masood-azhar-china-211140">China on Wednesday dismissed reports</a> that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, "I don't know where you get such information."

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MEA: It's now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee&amp;other authorized bodies of UN to take a decision on listing of Masood Azhar. India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice. (2/2) <a href="https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA">https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1120277138412855298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-not-be-pressured-by-anyone-on-masood-azhar-pakistan-foreign-office-211606">Pakistan will not be "pressured"</a> by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN.

Pak's foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a clear stance on Azhar.

After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US.

However, China blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US backed by the UK and France moved directly to UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar.

China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, had opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China. The MEA stated that the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other UN-authorised bodies will now take a decision on Azhar's listing, adding that "India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice." The MEA's response was to a media query on discussions with China on the 1267 listing of JeM leader Masood Azhar during foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Beijing. Gokhale's visit comes even as India and China mark one year since the Wuhan informal summit that took place in April 2018. Foreign secretary Gokhale also called on the Chinese foreign minister and state councillor Wang Yi. Meanwhile when asked about if Masood Azhar was raised by India during the talks, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "The common interests of China and India are far greater than the differences between the two sides." "We hope that the two sides will continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation and maintain the positive momentum of the sound development of bilateral relations. In this regard, China is ready to work with India," he added. China on Wednesday dismissed reports that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, "I don't know where you get such information." MEA: It's now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee&other authorized bodies of UN to take a decision on listing of Masood Azhar. India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice. (2/2) https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2019 × Meanwhile, Pakistan will not be "pressured" by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN. Pak's foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a clear stance on Azhar. After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US. However, China blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US backed by the UK and France moved directly to UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar. China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, had opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body. (With inputs from agencies)

All evidence on Masood Azhar, Jaish shared with China, will continue to pursue all avenues: India 

Three Indians have lost their lives in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-multiple-blasts-seven-arrested-death-toll-passes-200-212339">serial blasts in Sri Lanka that killed over 200 people on Sunday</a>. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in a tweet said, "The Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that the National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals."

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Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals. Their names are Lokashini, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh. We are ascertaining further details. /3
— Chowkidar Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1119970416850685952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj, earlier in the day, spoke to Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana who informed that 207 people have died in the blasts that also injured around 450 people.

As many as eight blasts occurred across churches and hotels in Sri Lanka.

Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-blasts-are-grim-reminder-of-most-serious-challenge-to-humanity-pm-modi-to-sri-lankan-president-pm-212293">PM Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena</a> and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and conveyed his condolences.

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Strongly condemn the horrific blasts in Sri Lanka. There is no place for such barbarism in our region. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1119863044216172544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has also offered all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges such as terrorism.

President Ram Nath Kovind in a tweet said, "Such senseless violence, aimed at innocent people, has no place in a civilised society. We stand in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka".

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India condemns the terror attacks in Sri Lanka and offers its condolences to the people and government of the country. Such senseless violence, aimed at innocent people, has no place in civilised society. We stand in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1119866576885436416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The serial blasts have shattered the stability and peace that Colombo had achieved after the defeat of terror group LTTE in 2009.

Three Indians have lost their lives in the serial blasts in Sri Lanka that killed over 200 people on Sunday. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in a tweet said, "The Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that the National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals.

Three Indians have lost their lives in the serial blasts in Sri Lanka that killed over 200 people on Sunday. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in a tweet said, "The Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that the National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals." Indian High Commission in Colombo has conveyed that National Hospital has informed them about the death of three Indian nationals. Their names are Lokashini, Narayan Chandrashekhar and Ramesh. We are ascertaining further details. /3 — Chowkidar Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) April 21, 2019 × Swaraj, earlier in the day, spoke to Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana who informed that 207 people have died in the blasts that also injured around 450 people. As many as eight blasts occurred across churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. Earlier in the day, PM Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and conveyed his condolences. Strongly condemn the horrific blasts in Sri Lanka. There is no place for such barbarism in our region. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2019 × India has also offered all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges such as terrorism. President Ram Nath Kovind in a tweet said, "Such senseless violence, aimed at innocent people, has no place in a civilised society. We stand in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka". India condemns the terror attacks in Sri Lanka and offers its condolences to the people and government of the country. Such senseless violence, aimed at innocent people, has no place in civilised society. We stand in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 21, 2019 × The serial blasts have shattered the stability and peace that Colombo had achieved after the defeat of terror group LTTE in 2009.

3 Indians killed in Sri Lanka serial blasts: Ministry of External Affairs 

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India".&nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it.

Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16,&nbsp;on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks.&nbsp;

Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday.

The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism".&nbsp;

Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. &nbsp;

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region".

India has rejected the claim by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that India plans to launch an attack on his country between April 16 and 20. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the statement by Qureshi was "irresponsible and preposterous", and that its objective was "whipping up war hysteria in the region". The MEA, in its statement, added that Qureshi's statement was a "public gimmick" which appears to be a "call to Pakistan-based terrorists to undertake a terror attack in India". Interestingly, Pakistan, after its attempted attack on Indian military installations on February 27, had told the international community that India may launch missiles against it. Qureshi seemed to suggest Sunday that a terror attack may occur in Kashmir sometime after April 16, on the pretext of which India will attack Pakistan. Responding to that, New Delhi advised Islamabad to use established "diplomatic and DGMO channels" to share any actionable and credible intelligence it has about imminent terror attacks. Remember, India-Pakistan DGMO talks take place every Tuesday. The MEA also reminded Pakistan that it needs to take "credible and irreversible" steps against terrorism operating from all territories under its control rather than making "hysterical statements to obfuscate the core issue that bedevils our region: cross-border terrorism". Relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have plummeted since the Febuary 14 Pulwama terror attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. The attack was claimed by the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed. Twelve days later, on February 26, the Indian Air Force conducted a "surgical strike" on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province.

'Preposterous' says New Delhi after Pakistan claims India is planning to attack it

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-intention-of-entering-into-arms-race-in-outer-space-india-after-asat-test-206023">India said it tested the ASAT</a> (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development.

"Pakistan has been a strong proponent of prevention of arms&nbsp;race in outer space. Space is the common heritage of mankind and every nation has the responsibility to avoid actions which can lead to the militarization of this arena," it said.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yEBlFh5knKw" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">India's Ministry of external affairs</a>( MEA) had said that the country had no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space.

Pakistan foreign ministry added that boasting of such capabilities is reminiscent of Don Quixote’s tilting against windmills.

Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. PM Modi announced on Wednesday morning that &nbsp;India had become an "elite space power" after it shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an ASAT missile. The operation was named "Mission Shakti".

Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence.&nbsp;

He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy".&nbsp;

"We did not violate any international treaty," he added.&nbsp;

After India said it tested the ASAT (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development.

After India said it tested the ASAT (anti-satellite) missile to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets", Pakistan's foreign ministry said there is a need to address gaps in the international space laws to ensure that no one threatens peaceful activities and applications of space technologies for socio-economic development. "Pakistan has been a strong proponent of prevention of arms race in outer space. Space is the common heritage of mankind and every nation has the responsibility to avoid actions which can lead to the militarization of this arena," it said. India's Ministry of external affairs( MEA) had said that the country had no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space. Pakistan foreign ministry added that boasting of such capabilities is reminiscent of Don Quixote’s tilting against windmills. Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. PM Modi announced on Wednesday morning that India had become an "elite space power" after it shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an ASAT missile. The operation was named "Mission Shakti". Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence. He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy". "We did not violate any international treaty," he added.

Every nation has responsibility avoid actions which lead to militarisation of space: Pak on India's ASAT test

India has once again underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border with China as a prerequisite for "smooth" development of overall ties between the two countries.

Both sides reviewed the situation along the border Tuesday during the 13th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

It said the two sides reviewed the progress on implementation of various confidence-building measures (CBMs) to enhance mutual trust and understanding.

"The Indian side reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas as a prerequisite to smooth development of overall bilateral relations," the MEA said.

The WMCC was established in 2012 as an institutional mechanism for consultation and coordination for management of India-China border areas as well as to exchange views on strengthening communication, including between the border security personnel of the two sides.

In the meeting, both sides reviewed the situation in the border areas with a view to ensuring peace and tranquillity in accordance with the strategic guidance given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during the Wuhan Summit last year, the MEA said.

"In this context, both sides recognised the important role of constant exchanges between the two sides, including at the WMCC meetings, towards strengthening communication for effective border management," it said.

In their informal summit in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April last year, Modi and Xi decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications so that they can build trust and understanding.

The informal summit had taken place seven months after the Doklam standoff.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day face-off in Doklam from June 16, 2017, after the Indian side stopped the building of a road in the disputed area by the Chinese Army. The impasse ended on August 28.

The Indian delegation at the WMCC was led by Pranay Verma, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the MEA while the Chinese delegation was led by Yi Xianliang, Director General, Department of Boundary and Oceanic Affairs in Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

India has once again underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border with China as a prerequisite for "smooth" development of overall ties between the two countries.

India has once again underlined the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border with China as a prerequisite for "smooth" development of overall ties between the two countries. Both sides reviewed the situation along the border Tuesday during the 13th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs said. It said the two sides reviewed the progress on implementation of various confidence-building measures (CBMs) to enhance mutual trust and understanding. "The Indian side reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas as a prerequisite to smooth development of overall bilateral relations," the MEA said. The WMCC was established in 2012 as an institutional mechanism for consultation and coordination for management of India-China border areas as well as to exchange views on strengthening communication, including between the border security personnel of the two sides. In the meeting, both sides reviewed the situation in the border areas with a view to ensuring peace and tranquillity in accordance with the strategic guidance given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during the Wuhan Summit last year, the MEA said. "In this context, both sides recognised the important role of constant exchanges between the two sides, including at the WMCC meetings, towards strengthening communication for effective border management," it said. In their informal summit in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April last year, Modi and Xi decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications so that they can build trust and understanding. The informal summit had taken place seven months after the Doklam standoff. Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day face-off in Doklam from June 16, 2017, after the Indian side stopped the building of a road in the disputed area by the Chinese Army. The impasse ended on August 28. The Indian delegation at the WMCC was led by Pranay Verma, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in the MEA while the Chinese delegation was led by Yi Xianliang, Director General, Department of Boundary and Oceanic Affairs in Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

For smooth ties with China, peace along border a prerequisite: India

A day after External Affair's Minister Sushma Swaraj said that her ministry is in the process of transferring the ownership of Jinnah House in Mumbai, New Delhi has dismissed any claims by Pakistan&nbsp;over the property and said it belongs to India.

Responding to WION's question on the Jinnah House, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "You see Pakistan is not in the picture. They have no locus standi as far as this property is concerned. It is a government of India property. We are in the process of renovating it and putting it in an effective use on lines of what we do in Hyderabad House."&nbsp;

"Our stand is very clear. It is our property. No doubt in the mind it is anybody's property," he later added.

The reaction from MEA came on the back of Pakistani Foreign Mohammad Faisal‏ saying that Islamabad will not relinquish claims over the property.

The Minister of External Affair Sushma Swaraj in a letter to MLA Mangal Prabhat Lodha had said, "We are in the process of transferring the ownership of the property in our name. Activities relating to renovation and refurbishment of Jinnah House to develop it on the pattern of facilities available in Hyderabad House in Delhi would be undertaken in due course".

Approval of Prime Minister's office (PMO) was sought for transfer of the property from Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to MEA and PMO has accorded the necessary approval.

Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the MLA representing Malabar Hill Constituency of South Mumbai where the Jinnah House is located had written to Sushma Swaraj on the ownership of the house. Welcoming the development, Lodha on twitter said, "I welcome govt's decision to acquire Jinnah House in Mumbai. Govt has decided to convert the Jinnah House into an International Cultural Centre. I thank Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi ji, CM Devendra Fadnavis ji, and MEA Sushma Swaraj ji."

Jinnah House, officially known as South Court was built by Muhammad Ali Jinnah who played an instrumental role in the partition of India and Pakistan. It was his main residence until he left for Pakistan after the partition. The matter to transfer the property came up in front of several governments from the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Nehru wanted it to be given to Pakistan government in 1955, he, however, was not allowed to do so because of the cabinet's refusal.

In 1980 the then Foreign Minister Narasimha Rao agreed to lease the property to Pakistan for its consulate but the plan did not get any approval. The issue was also raised by Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf with former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.&nbsp;

The property was built in 1936 for around two lakh&nbsp;rupees. After Independence, Jinnah House was used by the British High Commissioner until 1982. From 1982 onwards the premises was placed under the Central Public Works Department (CPWD). Based on the recommendations of the committee of secretaries in 1988 and with the approval of the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Ministry of Urban Development advised CPWD to hand over Jinnah House to ICCR. In 1996, a decision was taken by the Prime Minister to establish a cultural centre at Jinnah House. The house was transferred to ICCR on February 4, 1997. &nbsp;

Dina Wadia, the daughter of Jinnah who opted India to be her home, was involved in litigation to claim rights over property. She died last year in new york.&nbsp;

A day after External Affair's Minister Sushma Swaraj said that her ministry is in the process of transferring the ownership of Jinnah House in Mumbai, New Delhi has dismissed any claims by Pakistan over the property and said it belongs to India.

A day after External Affair's Minister Sushma Swaraj said that her ministry is in the process of transferring the ownership of Jinnah House in Mumbai, New Delhi has dismissed any claims by Pakistan over the property and said it belongs to India. Responding to WION's question on the Jinnah House, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "You see Pakistan is not in the picture. They have no locus standi as far as this property is concerned. It is a government of India property. We are in the process of renovating it and putting it in an effective use on lines of what we do in Hyderabad House." "Our stand is very clear. It is our property. No doubt in the mind it is anybody's property," he later added. The reaction from MEA came on the back of Pakistani Foreign Mohammad Faisal‏ saying that Islamabad will not relinquish claims over the property. The Minister of External Affair Sushma Swaraj in a letter to MLA Mangal Prabhat Lodha had said, "We are in the process of transferring the ownership of the property in our name. Activities relating to renovation and refurbishment of Jinnah House to develop it on the pattern of facilities available in Hyderabad House in Delhi would be undertaken in due course". Approval of Prime Minister's office (PMO) was sought for transfer of the property from Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to MEA and PMO has accorded the necessary approval. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the MLA representing Malabar Hill Constituency of South Mumbai where the Jinnah House is located had written to Sushma Swaraj on the ownership of the house. Welcoming the development, Lodha on twitter said, "I welcome govt's decision to acquire Jinnah House in Mumbai. Govt has decided to convert the Jinnah House into an International Cultural Centre. I thank Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi ji, CM Devendra Fadnavis ji, and MEA Sushma Swaraj ji." Jinnah House, officially known as South Court was built by Muhammad Ali Jinnah who played an instrumental role in the partition of India and Pakistan. It was his main residence until he left for Pakistan after the partition. The matter to transfer the property came up in front of several governments from the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Nehru wanted it to be given to Pakistan government in 1955, he, however, was not allowed to do so because of the cabinet's refusal. In 1980 the then Foreign Minister Narasimha Rao agreed to lease the property to Pakistan for its consulate but the plan did not get any approval. The issue was also raised by Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf with former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The property was built in 1936 for around two lakh rupees. After Independence, Jinnah House was used by the British High Commissioner until 1982. From 1982 onwards the premises was placed under the Central Public Works Department (CPWD). Based on the recommendations of the committee of secretaries in 1988 and with the approval of the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Ministry of Urban Development advised CPWD to hand over Jinnah House to ICCR. In 1996, a decision was taken by the Prime Minister to establish a cultural centre at Jinnah House. The house was transferred to ICCR on February 4, 1997. Dina Wadia, the daughter of Jinnah who opted India to be her home, was involved in litigation to claim rights over property. She died last year in new york.

MEA rejects Pak claim, says Jinnah House is government of India property

Jinnah House to be converted into a venue along the lines of Hyderabad House, says Sushma Swaraj

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomes the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-releases-indian-prisoner-hamid-nihal-ansari-after-6-years-184826">release of Indian national, Hamid Nihal Ansari</a>, from Pakistan jail adding that Pakistan should take action to "also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen."

"It's a matter of great relief, especially for family members, that 6 yrs of incarceration is coming to an end. We would like Pakistan to take action to also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen whose nationality has been confirmed and who've completed their sentences, but continue to languish in Pakistan jails." the MEA stated.&nbsp;

"We hope Pakistan would respond and organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner," the MEA added.&nbsp;

The MEA's reaction came after Pakistan on Monday released Indian prisoner Hamid Nihal Ansari, who was detained by the country's intelligence agencies in 2012 and subsequently sentenced to three years' imprisonment by a military court in 2015 for possessing a fake Pakistani identity card. As per reports, Ansari will cross over to India on Tuesday.&nbsp;

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whose nationality has been confirmed &amp; who've completed their sentences,but continue to languish in Pakistan jails. We hope Pakistan would respond&amp;organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian&amp;timely manner.2/2
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074675384115900422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ansari, a 33-year-old Mumbai resident, was lodged in the Peshawar Central Jail after being sentenced by the military court on December 15, 2015. His three-year jail term ended on December 15, 2018, but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready.

On Thursday, the Peshawar High Court gave the federal government a month deadline to complete his repatriation process.

"Ansari is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said.

He claimed that Ansari was an "Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents."

Ansari went missing after he was taken into custody by Pakistani intelligence agencies and local police in Kohat in 2012 and finally in reply to a habeas corpus petition filed by his mother, Fauzia Ansari, the high court was informed that he was in custody of the Pakistan Army and was being tried by a military court.&nbsp;

He entered Pakistan from Afghanistan, reportedly to meet a girl he had befriended online.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomes the release of Indian national, Hamid Nihal Ansari, from Pakistan jail adding that Pakistan should take action to "also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomes the release of Indian national, Hamid Nihal Ansari, from Pakistan jail adding that Pakistan should take action to "also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen." "It's a matter of great relief, especially for family members, that 6 yrs of incarceration is coming to an end. We would like Pakistan to take action to also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen whose nationality has been confirmed and who've completed their sentences, but continue to languish in Pakistan jails." the MEA stated. "We hope Pakistan would respond and organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner," the MEA added. The MEA's reaction came after Pakistan on Monday released Indian prisoner Hamid Nihal Ansari, who was detained by the country's intelligence agencies in 2012 and subsequently sentenced to three years' imprisonment by a military court in 2015 for possessing a fake Pakistani identity card. As per reports, Ansari will cross over to India on Tuesday. whose nationality has been confirmed & who've completed their sentences,but continue to languish in Pakistan jails. We hope Pakistan would respond&organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian&timely manner.2/2 — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2018 × Ansari, a 33-year-old Mumbai resident, was lodged in the Peshawar Central Jail after being sentenced by the military court on December 15, 2015. His three-year jail term ended on December 15, 2018, but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready. On Thursday, the Peshawar High Court gave the federal government a month deadline to complete his repatriation process. "Ansari is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India," Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said. He claimed that Ansari was an "Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents." Ansari went missing after he was taken into custody by Pakistani intelligence agencies and local police in Kohat in 2012 and finally in reply to a habeas corpus petition filed by his mother, Fauzia Ansari, the high court was informed that he was in custody of the Pakistan Army and was being tried by a military court. He entered Pakistan from Afghanistan, reportedly to meet a girl he had befriended online. (With inputs from PTI)

It's a matter of great relief: MEA on Hamid Ansari's release from Pak jail 

After facing immense criticism from various political quarters for participating in the 'Moscow format meeting' on Afghanistan, which will also be attended by a Taliban delegation, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Friday clarified that "India always wanted Afghan-led peace process."

Reiterating India's stand on the issue, Kumar told the reporters here, "India will be participating in the meeting at non-official level" and added that "New Delhi's Afghan policy has been consistent".

Kumar also slammed the opposition parties for their remarks in this regard and questioned, "Don't know how are people concluding that India will hold talks with the Taliban. It is a meeting on Afghanistan in Moscow."

The statement from Kumar came a few hours after former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah slammed the Central government for participating in the meeting by saying, "If "non-official" participation in a dialogue that includes the Taliban is acceptable to the Modi government, why not a "non-official" dialogue with non-mainstream stakeholders in J&amp;K? Why not a "non-official" dialogue centred around J&amp;K's eroded autonomy &amp; its restoration?."

Joining Omar's contention, Farooq Abdullah, chairman of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference also stated that there is a dire need to hold a dialogue with the non-mainstream stakeholders in order to prevent further crumbling of democracy in the state.

"Before further erosion of democracy in the state, one should immediately start a dialogue and it should be meaningful. It has to have compulsion in the centre of restoring our autonomy. Unless they restore autonomy, to expect any forward movement from people is impossible," Farooq said.

On Thursday, MEA headed by Union Minister Sushma Swaraj had confirmed India's informal participation in the talks in Moscow and said, "Our participation at the meeting will be at the non-official level."

"India supports all efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan that will preserve unity and plurality, and bring security, stability, and prosperity to the country. India's consistent policy has been that such efforts should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the Government of Afghanistan," the MEA added.

After facing immense criticism from various political quarters for participating in the 'Moscow format meeting' on Afghanistan, which will also be attended by a Taliban delegation, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Friday clarified that "India always wanted Afghan-led peace process.

After facing immense criticism from various political quarters for participating in the 'Moscow format meeting' on Afghanistan, which will also be attended by a Taliban delegation, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Friday clarified that "India always wanted Afghan-led peace process." Reiterating India's stand on the issue, Kumar told the reporters here, "India will be participating in the meeting at non-official level" and added that "New Delhi's Afghan policy has been consistent". Kumar also slammed the opposition parties for their remarks in this regard and questioned, "Don't know how are people concluding that India will hold talks with the Taliban. It is a meeting on Afghanistan in Moscow." The statement from Kumar came a few hours after former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah slammed the Central government for participating in the meeting by saying, "If "non-official" participation in a dialogue that includes the Taliban is acceptable to the Modi government, why not a "non-official" dialogue with non-mainstream stakeholders in J&K? Why not a "non-official" dialogue centred around J&K's eroded autonomy & its restoration?." Joining Omar's contention, Farooq Abdullah, chairman of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference also stated that there is a dire need to hold a dialogue with the non-mainstream stakeholders in order to prevent further crumbling of democracy in the state. "Before further erosion of democracy in the state, one should immediately start a dialogue and it should be meaningful. It has to have compulsion in the centre of restoring our autonomy. Unless they restore autonomy, to expect any forward movement from people is impossible," Farooq said. On Thursday, MEA headed by Union Minister Sushma Swaraj had confirmed India's informal participation in the talks in Moscow and said, "Our participation at the meeting will be at the non-official level." "India supports all efforts at peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan that will preserve unity and plurality, and bring security, stability, and prosperity to the country. India's consistent policy has been that such efforts should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the Government of Afghanistan," the MEA added.

India always wanted Afghan-led peace process: MEA Raveesh Kumar

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC.

Taking to Twitter and Facebook, he also used a hashtag “TravelAgentModi” to target Modi.

“The prime minister should say in an RTI that I will take those along with me, whom the police will take, if I don’t,” he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday over a media report that stated the External Affairs Ministry did not share details of those accompanying the PM during his foreign tours, despite orders from the CIC. Taking to Twitter and Facebook, he also used a hashtag “TravelAgentModi” to target Modi. “The prime minister should say in an RTI that I will take those along with me, whom the police will take, if I don’t,” he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Rahul Gandhi mocks PM Modi over people accompanying him on foreign tours

Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, on Tuesday, stated that the External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

"The highlight has been a series of bilateral meetings which EAM had with her counterparts. In the first two days, she had a total of 13 bilateral meetings. She also attended a high-level meeting chaired by US President Trump on 'Global call to action on world drug problem'," Kumar told media.&nbsp;

Swaraj met Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini, Liechtenstein Foreign Minister Aurelia Frick, Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, Colombian Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo, Foreign Minister of Ecuador Jose Valencia, Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Foreign Minister of Mongolia Damdin Tsogtbaatar, PTI reported.&nbsp;

During the day, she also briefly met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Gambian President Adama Barrow and Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan.

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Highlight has been a series of bilateral meetings which EAM had with her counterparts. In first 2 days, she had a total of 13 bilateral meetings.She also attended the high level meeting chaired by President Trump on 'Global call to action on world drug problem': Raveesh Kumar,MEA <a href="https://t.co/ouScuGvhgr">pic.twitter.com/ouScuGvhgr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044730517600522240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj at the United Nations General Assembly took a strict stand on terrorism stating that "no one should be allowed to support terror or its perpetrators."

She added that "terror and hateful ideologies" are growing across and beyond borders and are impacting lives, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Our world is still beset with conflicts, terror &amp; hateful ideologies that are transcending borders and impacting our lives," Swaraj noted at Nelson Mandela Peace Summit at United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, on Tuesday, stated that the External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, on Tuesday, stated that the External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. "The highlight has been a series of bilateral meetings which EAM had with her counterparts. In the first two days, she had a total of 13 bilateral meetings. She also attended a high-level meeting chaired by US President Trump on 'Global call to action on world drug problem'," Kumar told media. Swaraj met Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini, Liechtenstein Foreign Minister Aurelia Frick, Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, Colombian Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo, Foreign Minister of Ecuador Jose Valencia, Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Foreign Minister of Mongolia Damdin Tsogtbaatar, PTI reported. During the day, she also briefly met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Gambian President Adama Barrow and Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan. Highlight has been a series of bilateral meetings which EAM had with her counterparts. In first 2 days, she had a total of 13 bilateral meetings.She also attended the high level meeting chaired by President Trump on 'Global call to action on world drug problem': Raveesh Kumar,MEA pic.twitter.com/ouScuGvhgr — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × Swaraj at the United Nations General Assembly took a strict stand on terrorism stating that "no one should be allowed to support terror or its perpetrators." She added that "terror and hateful ideologies" are growing across and beyond borders and are impacting lives, news agency ANI reported. "Our world is still beset with conflicts, terror & hateful ideologies that are transcending borders and impacting our lives," Swaraj noted at Nelson Mandela Peace Summit at United Nations General Assembly. (With inputs from agencies)

External Affairs Minister Swaraj held 13 bilateral meetings at UN: MEA 

US, UK and France-led air strikes on Syria have raked a wave of reactions from political leaders all across the globe. While US President Donald Trump praised Western air strikes against the Syrian government as "perfectly executed", and added "<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/trump-mission-accomplished-on-perfectly-executed-syria-strike-130445">Mission Accomplished</a>", <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/syria-strikes-russia-calls-for-emergency-un-meeting-to-discuss-aggressive-actions-of-us-allies-130440">Russia called for an emergency meeting</a> of the United Nations Security Council.

India also reacted to the incident stating that the country closely follows the situation. The official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs called the "alleged" use of chemical weapons "deplorable".

"We have taken note of the recent strikes in Syria. India is closely following the situation. The alleged use of chemical weapons, if true, is deplorable. We call for an impartial and objective investigation by the OPCW to establish the facts," the MEA noted.

The Ministry urged all Parties to show restraint and to "avoid any further escalation in the situation".&nbsp;

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We urge all Parties to show restraint & to avoid any further escalation in the situation. The matter should be resolved through dialogue & negotiations & on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter & in accordance with international law: MEA
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/985144071336419328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The matter should be resolved through dialogue & negotiations and on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter & in accordance with international law," the statement read.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d66-1dULfcc" width="560"></iframe>

Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday backed air strikes by the United States, France and Britain as a "<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/germanys-merkel-backs-air-strikes-on-syria-as-necessary-and-appropriate-130386">necessary and appropriate</a>" action to warn Syria against further use of chemical weapons.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan noted that the operation sent a message to Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad that "<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/turkeys-erdogan-welcomes-western-attack-on-syria-130446">its massacres would not be left unanswered</a>".&nbsp;

A Western attack on Syria hit a scientific research facility in Damascus and Syrian army depots in the Homs area, state media said, and a witness said the Syrian capital was rocked by explosions as smoke rose into the sky.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a second research facility was also struck in Damascus, in addition to a third in the Homs area, and five military bases and depots used by elite army divisions in the Mezzeh area of Damascus.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India reacted to the incident stating that the country closely follows the situation

US, UK and France-led air strikes on Syria have raked a wave of reactions from political leaders all across the globe. While US President Donald Trump praised Western air strikes against the Syrian government as "perfectly executed", and added "Mission Accomplished", Russia called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council. India also reacted to the incident stating that the country closely follows the situation. The official statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs called the "alleged" use of chemical weapons "deplorable". "We have taken note of the recent strikes in Syria. India is closely following the situation. The alleged use of chemical weapons, if true, is deplorable. We call for an impartial and objective investigation by the OPCW to establish the facts," the MEA noted. The Ministry urged all Parties to show restraint and to "avoid any further escalation in the situation". We urge all Parties to show restraint & to avoid any further escalation in the situation. The matter should be resolved through dialogue & negotiations & on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter & in accordance with international law: MEA — ANI (@ANI) April 14, 2018 × "The matter should be resolved through dialogue & negotiations and on the basis of the principles of the UN Charter & in accordance with international law," the statement read. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday backed air strikes by the United States, France and Britain as a "necessary and appropriate" action to warn Syria against further use of chemical weapons. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan noted that the operation sent a message to Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad that "its massacres would not be left unanswered". A Western attack on Syria hit a scientific research facility in Damascus and Syrian army depots in the Homs area, state media said, and a witness said the Syrian capital was rocked by explosions as smoke rose into the sky. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a second research facility was also struck in Damascus, in addition to a third in the Homs area, and five military bases and depots used by elite army divisions in the Mezzeh area of Damascus. (With inputs from agencies)

All parties should show restraint, avoid further escalation in situation: India on Syria air strikes

The Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar has said that Pakistan is trying to make efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system as a political party.

He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed.

He said &quot;Pakistan is mandated under UN Law to take action against Hafiz Saeed but instant developments coming out of Pak seems to be an attempt by Pak establishment to mainstream him and his system as a political party. It is a way of shielding what he used to do earlier. The true face of Hafiz Saeed and Pakistan is for all to see. Not only India but also the entire international community feels that the action which should be taken against Hafiz Saeed is not being taken&quot;.

Speaking on the rising tensions in the Korean peninsula, Kumar said India&nbsp;is ready to indulge in any kind of dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace in the region.&nbsp;

&quot;We believe that any solution to the issues in Koran peninsula must take into account and address concerns about the proliferation linkages of DPRK&#39;s nuclear envisage programme. India supports all efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Korean peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy. We hope that such engagement will help in reducing tensions and pave the way for lasting peace &amp; reconciliation in the Korean peninsula&quot;.

Speaking of the reports that claimed Indians were not allowed to attend the event of Dalai Lama, the spokesperson clarified that the Buddhist leader is free to carry his religious functions in India.&nbsp;

He said &quot;Dalai Lama is a revered religious leader and worshipped in India. There is no change in that position. He is free to carry his religious functions here&quot;.

He also spoke about the controversy surrounding the visit of Canadian Prime minister in India.

He said &quot;Jaspal Atwal&nbsp;travelled to India on a valid visa. This was the third visit. Government of India has a conscious policy of outreach to Indian diaspora including misguided elements who in past may have harboured anti-India sentiments which they have since renounced.&nbsp;&quot;There are well-established procedures for grant of visa to foreign travellers which have been followed in this case as well&quot;.

Jaspal Atwal was part of a movement that supported an independent Sikh nation in the 1980 and was imprisoned&nbsp;for the attempted murder of a visiting Indian minister in 1986.

He was invited to a dinner with Canadian Prime minister&nbsp;Justin Trudeau in New Delhi.

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As far as I know, the paperwork from UAE govt were handed over to us and on the basis of that the mortal remains were brought to India. Had there been something suspicious, it would have come out by now: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> <a href="https://t.co/PVeAJSxxra">pic.twitter.com/PVeAJSxxra</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972055554402279425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed

The Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar has said that Pakistan is trying to make efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system as a political party. He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed. He said "Pakistan is mandated under UN Law to take action against Hafiz Saeed but instant developments coming out of Pak seems to be an attempt by Pak establishment to mainstream him and his system as a political party. It is a way of shielding what he used to do earlier. The true face of Hafiz Saeed and Pakistan is for all to see. Not only India but also the entire international community feels that the action which should be taken against Hafiz Saeed is not being taken". Speaking on the rising tensions in the Korean peninsula, Kumar said India is ready to indulge in any kind of dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace in the region. "We believe that any solution to the issues in Koran peninsula must take into account and address concerns about the proliferation linkages of DPRK's nuclear envisage programme. India supports all efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Korean peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy. We hope that such engagement will help in reducing tensions and pave the way for lasting peace & reconciliation in the Korean peninsula". Speaking of the reports that claimed Indians were not allowed to attend the event of Dalai Lama, the spokesperson clarified that the Buddhist leader is free to carry his religious functions in India. He said "Dalai Lama is a revered religious leader and worshipped in India. There is no change in that position. He is free to carry his religious functions here". He also spoke about the controversy surrounding the visit of Canadian Prime minister in India. He said "Jaspal Atwal travelled to India on a valid visa. This was the third visit. Government of India has a conscious policy of outreach to Indian diaspora including misguided elements who in past may have harboured anti-India sentiments which they have since renounced. "There are well-established procedures for grant of visa to foreign travellers which have been followed in this case as well". Jaspal Atwal was part of a movement that supported an independent Sikh nation in the 1980 and was imprisoned for the attempted murder of a visiting Indian minister in 1986. He was invited to a dinner with Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau in New Delhi. As far as I know, the paperwork from UAE govt were handed over to us and on the basis of that the mortal remains were brought to India. Had there been something suspicious, it would have come out by now: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on #Sridevi pic.twitter.com/PVeAJSxxra — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2018 ×

Pak govt making efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system: India's MEA

With the Maldives&#39; government extending the state of emergency for another 30 days, India feels &quot;deeply dismayed&quot; by the move.

&quot;Deeply dismayed that the Government of Maldives has extended the State of Emergency for a further 30 days,&quot; noted the official Ministry of External Affairs statement.

The release noted that the manner &quot;in which the extension of the State of Emergency was approved by the Majlis in contravention of the Constitution of Maldives is also a matter of concern&quot;.&nbsp;

The MEA noted that the move will further delay restoration of normalcy in the Maldives.&nbsp;

&quot;The consequent delay in the resumption of the political process and the continuing suspension of the functioning of democratic institutions including the judiciary is likely to further delay restoration of normalcy in the Maldives,&quot; noted the statement.

India yesterday voiced its opinion over the extension of emergency in the Maldives saying that it would not want the Maldives to go ahead with the extension.&nbsp;

&quot;It is important that the Maldives quickly returns to the path of democracy and the rule of law so that the aspirations of Maldivian people are met and the concerns of the international community are assuaged,&quot; the MEA noted yesterday.

The MEA noted that the move will further delay restoration of normalcy in the Maldives.

With the Maldives' government extending the state of emergency for another 30 days, India feels "deeply dismayed" by the move. "Deeply dismayed that the Government of Maldives has extended the State of Emergency for a further 30 days," noted the official Ministry of External Affairs statement. The release noted that the manner "in which the extension of the State of Emergency was approved by the Majlis in contravention of the Constitution of Maldives is also a matter of concern". The MEA noted that the move will further delay restoration of normalcy in the Maldives. "The consequent delay in the resumption of the political process and the continuing suspension of the functioning of democratic institutions including the judiciary is likely to further delay restoration of normalcy in the Maldives," noted the statement. India yesterday voiced its opinion over the extension of emergency in the Maldives saying that it would not want the Maldives to go ahead with the extension. "It is important that the Maldives quickly returns to the path of democracy and the rule of law so that the aspirations of Maldivian people are met and the concerns of the international community are assuaged," the MEA noted yesterday.

Extension of emergency will delay restoration of normalcy in Maldives: MEA

As the state of emergency in the Maldives comes to an end today, India&#39;s Ministry of External Affairs hopes that the &quot;government of Maldives will not seek&nbsp;the extension of the State of Emergency so that the political process in the Maldives can resume with immediate effect,&quot; read the official release.&nbsp;

MEA&#39;s official release was tweeted by the ministry&#39;s official spokesperson Ravish Kumar.&nbsp;

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Press release on the State of Emergency in Maldives. It is our expectation that the Government of Maldives will not be seeking the extension of the State of Emergency and resume the political process with immediate effect. Link at <a href="https://t.co/sYKSD256HC">https://t.co/sYKSD256HC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/EoIMaldives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EoIMaldives</a>
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/965896312695779329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The release noted that the &quot;democratic institutions&quot; of the Maldives, including the judiciary, &quot;should be allowed to function independently and in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with the Constitution&quot;.

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The ministry also recommended that the order issued by the Supreme Court of Maldives on 1 February 2018 &quot;should be implemented in letter and spirit&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;It is important that the Maldives quickly returns to the path of democracy and the rule of law so that the aspirations of Maldivian people are met and the concerns of the international community are assuaged,&quot; the statement concluded.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the SAARC parliamentary body has also appealed in the favour of the restoration of democracy in the island country.&nbsp;

In his letter to Speaker of Majlis, Abdulla Maseeh Mohamed, Chairman of the Association of SAARC Speakers and Parliamentarian&nbsp;Karu Jayasuriya has called for &quot;finding peaceful solutions through dialogue.&quot;

Jayasuriya wrote, &quot;We therefore, urge you, Excellency, as the Speaker of the People&#39;s Majlis to prevail upon the relevant authorities in the Maldives including all parties concerned to find peaceful solutions through dialogue that would ensure a functioning Majlis, where elected Members are able to fulfil their constitutional duties and reassure the people of the Maldives that elections will be free and fair and that fundamental freedoms, democracy, security, stability and prosperity will be guaranteed.&quot;

President Yameen requested the Maldives Parliament to extend the emergency yesterday. So far, the parliamentary committee on national security has passed the resolution to extend the ongoing state of emergency for a duration 30 more days.

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It is unconstitutional to say that the state of emergency cannot be declared - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresYameen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresYameen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaldivesFirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaldivesFirst</a> <a href="https://t.co/qHItFyEM7Q">pic.twitter.com/qHItFyEM7Q</a>
&mdash; Presidency Maldives (@presidencymv) <a href="https://twitter.com/presidencymv/status/965909016009297920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The release noted that the 'democratic institutions' of the Maldives including the judiciary 'should be allowed to function independently'

As the state of emergency in the Maldives comes to an end today, India's Ministry of External Affairs hopes that the "government of Maldives will not seek the extension of the State of Emergency so that the political process in the Maldives can resume with immediate effect," read the official release. MEA's official release was tweeted by the ministry's official spokesperson Ravish Kumar. Press release on the State of Emergency in Maldives. It is our expectation that the Government of Maldives will not be seeking the extension of the State of Emergency and resume the political process with immediate effect. Link at https://t.co/sYKSD256HC @EoIMaldives — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 20, 2018 × The release noted that the "democratic institutions" of the Maldives, including the judiciary, "should be allowed to function independently and in a fair and transparent manner in accordance with the Constitution". The ministry also recommended that the order issued by the Supreme Court of Maldives on 1 February 2018 "should be implemented in letter and spirit". "It is important that the Maldives quickly returns to the path of democracy and the rule of law so that the aspirations of Maldivian people are met and the concerns of the international community are assuaged," the statement concluded. Meanwhile, the SAARC parliamentary body has also appealed in the favour of the restoration of democracy in the island country. In his letter to Speaker of Majlis, Abdulla Maseeh Mohamed, Chairman of the Association of SAARC Speakers and Parliamentarian Karu Jayasuriya has called for "finding peaceful solutions through dialogue." Jayasuriya wrote, "We therefore, urge you, Excellency, as the Speaker of the People's Majlis to prevail upon the relevant authorities in the Maldives including all parties concerned to find peaceful solutions through dialogue that would ensure a functioning Majlis, where elected Members are able to fulfil their constitutional duties and reassure the people of the Maldives that elections will be free and fair and that fundamental freedoms, democracy, security, stability and prosperity will be guaranteed." President Yameen requested the Maldives Parliament to extend the emergency yesterday. So far, the parliamentary committee on national security has passed the resolution to extend the ongoing state of emergency for a duration 30 more days. It is unconstitutional to say that the state of emergency cannot be declared - #PresYameen #MaldivesFirst pic.twitter.com/qHItFyEM7Q — Presidency Maldives (@presidencymv) February 20, 2018 ×

India expects government of Maldives to not seek extension of emergency: MEA

India on Sunday strongly condemned the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunfire-and-explosions-rock-kabul-hotel-as-siege-draws-to-an-end-30232" target="_blank">terrorist attack on the Intercontinental Hotel</a> in Kabul, which claimed 18 lives.&quot;We express our sincere condolences to the families of those killed in this heinous attack and wish speedy recovery to the injured,&quot; the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

&quot;Reports about attack having being carried out by terrorists of internationally proscribed Haqqani Network are a matter of serious concern and bring to fore once again the need to effectively deal with safe havens and sanctuaries that these terrorists find in our shared neighbourhood,&quot; the statement added.

Furthermore, India expressed solidarity with Afghanistan in bringing the perpetrators of these terrorist attacks and their supporters to justice.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pray-for-me-kabul-hotel-guests-plea-during-bloody-siege-30234" target="_blank">&#39;Pray for me,&#39;&nbsp;Kabul hotel guest says during bloody siege</a>

Gunmen stormed the heavily-guarded hotel located on a hilltop in the Bagh-e Bala area late on Saturday setting off a gun battle with security forces that continued into Sunday morning.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Sunday condemned the attack and called for regional and international cooperation against terrorism.

Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah also condemned the attack and commended security forces for saving people trapped inside the hotel during the attack. &quot;I commend the Afghan Forces for their bravery and professional action of rescuing over 100 civilians and killing all terrorists in the insane attack on Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul. I condemn the attack and condole with the victim families,&quot; Abdullah wrote on Twitter.

According to Interior Ministry spokesperson Najib Danish, around 100 guests and staffers were rescued, of which 16 of them were foreign nationals.

He said all those who had died or were wounded had been Afghan nationals. The Interior Ministry also dismissed reports of a hostage situation.The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The attack comes just days after the US embassy in Kabul issued a warning about possible attacks on hotels in the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'We express our sincere condolences to the families of those killed in this heinous attack and wish speedy recovery to the injured,' the Ministry of External Affairs said

India on Sunday strongly condemned the terrorist attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, which claimed 18 lives."We express our sincere condolences to the families of those killed in this heinous attack and wish speedy recovery to the injured," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "Reports about attack having being carried out by terrorists of internationally proscribed Haqqani Network are a matter of serious concern and bring to fore once again the need to effectively deal with safe havens and sanctuaries that these terrorists find in our shared neighbourhood," the statement added. Furthermore, India expressed solidarity with Afghanistan in bringing the perpetrators of these terrorist attacks and their supporters to justice. Also read: 'Pray for me,' Kabul hotel guest says during bloody siege Gunmen stormed the heavily-guarded hotel located on a hilltop in the Bagh-e Bala area late on Saturday setting off a gun battle with security forces that continued into Sunday morning. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Sunday condemned the attack and called for regional and international cooperation against terrorism. Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah also condemned the attack and commended security forces for saving people trapped inside the hotel during the attack. "I commend the Afghan Forces for their bravery and professional action of rescuing over 100 civilians and killing all terrorists in the insane attack on Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul. I condemn the attack and condole with the victim families," Abdullah wrote on Twitter. According to Interior Ministry spokesperson Najib Danish, around 100 guests and staffers were rescued, of which 16 of them were foreign nationals. He said all those who had died or were wounded had been Afghan nationals. The Interior Ministry also dismissed reports of a hostage situation.The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The attack comes just days after the US embassy in Kabul issued a warning about possible attacks on hotels in the city.

India condemns Kabul hotel attack

Around 90,000 Indian nationals have been safely brought back from foreign conflict zones, countries affected by natural disasters and other challenging situations in the last few years, a senior MEA official today said.

Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) in the Ministry of External Affairs Dnyaneshwar M Mulay, said, the evacuation of these people was carried under the aegis of the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF).

&quot;Our (MEA&#39;s) dictum is pro-people and people-centric policies with a larger motto of &#39;Sarvajanhitay, Sarvajansukhaiy&#39; (benefit for all, welfare for all). And, part of that rubric is ICWF.

&quot;We don&#39;t want to see any Indian suffering in distress abroad. And, under the ICWF we have evacuated about 90,000 people in the last few years, and safely brought them back, from various conflict zones, or places hit by natural disasters or other challenging situations,&quot; Mulay said on the sidelines of an event.

Set up in 2009, the ICWF is aimed at assisting overseas Indian nationals in times of distress and emergency and stands extended to all Indian missions and posts abroad.

Funds under this scheme can be used to assist only Indian citizens residing in the host country or those in distress while visiting a foreign country.

Persons of Indian origin and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders are not eligible for individual financial assistance from the ICWF, according to the MEA website.

Mulay today received an award in the second edition of Kalam Innovations in Governance Awards, among other bureaucrats, the ceremony for which was held at the Vigyan Bhawan here.

In his address during the event, the senior MEA official emphasised the government&#39;s goals of making passport delivery, simpler, and more efficient and transparent.

&quot;By March 2018, 251 new passport kendras would become functional. Also, we have set up a target that no person has to travel more than a radius of 50 km to get a passport,&quot; he said.

Also, a new post-office passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) was inaugurated yesterday in the port city of Karaikal in Puducherry.

The MEA has collaborated with the Department of Posts to set up these post-office passport Seva Kendra in head post- offices across the country in order to provide passport- related services on a larger scale.

&nbsp;

'We don't want to see any Indian suffering in distress abroad'

Around 90,000 Indian nationals have been safely brought back from foreign conflict zones, countries affected by natural disasters and other challenging situations in the last few years, a senior MEA official today said. Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) in the Ministry of External Affairs Dnyaneshwar M Mulay, said, the evacuation of these people was carried under the aegis of the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). "Our (MEA's) dictum is pro-people and people-centric policies with a larger motto of 'Sarvajanhitay, Sarvajansukhaiy' (benefit for all, welfare for all). And, part of that rubric is ICWF. "We don't want to see any Indian suffering in distress abroad. And, under the ICWF we have evacuated about 90,000 people in the last few years, and safely brought them back, from various conflict zones, or places hit by natural disasters or other challenging situations," Mulay said on the sidelines of an event. Set up in 2009, the ICWF is aimed at assisting overseas Indian nationals in times of distress and emergency and stands extended to all Indian missions and posts abroad. Funds under this scheme can be used to assist only Indian citizens residing in the host country or those in distress while visiting a foreign country. Persons of Indian origin and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders are not eligible for individual financial assistance from the ICWF, according to the MEA website. Mulay today received an award in the second edition of Kalam Innovations in Governance Awards, among other bureaucrats, the ceremony for which was held at the Vigyan Bhawan here. In his address during the event, the senior MEA official emphasised the government's goals of making passport delivery, simpler, and more efficient and transparent. "By March 2018, 251 new passport kendras would become functional. Also, we have set up a target that no person has to travel more than a radius of 50 km to get a passport," he said. Also, a new post-office passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) was inaugurated yesterday in the port city of Karaikal in Puducherry. The MEA has collaborated with the Department of Posts to set up these post-office passport Seva Kendra in head post- offices across the country in order to provide passport- related services on a larger scale.

90,000 Indians evacuated from war zones, natural disasters abroad in last few years: MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the massive suicide-bomb&nbsp;explosion in Kabul.&nbsp;

The official release noted that the &quot;barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul targeted innocent civilians and the wounded under treatment.&quot;

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India stands in solidarity with Govt &amp; people of Afghanistan at this difficult time of mindless violence &amp; terror imposed on them. We convey our heartfelt condolences to next of kins of victims of these terror attacks &amp; pray for speedy recovery to those injured: MEA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KabulAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KabulAttack</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/957229857150189570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Ministry called the attack &quot;reprehensible&quot; noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice.

&quot;The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice,&quot; the release noted.&nbsp;

The Indian External Affairs department expressed its complete solidarity and utmost support with the Government and the people of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

&quot;We convey our heartfelt condolences to the next of kins of victims of these terror attacks and pray for a speedy recovery to those injured,&quot; noted the release which was tweeted by Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India.&nbsp;

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India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at <a href="https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz">https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbKabul</a>
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/957235485033705472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The MEA also worded its commitment to extend &quot;all possible assistance, including for treatment of those injured.&quot;

An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-40-dead-140-wounded-after-massive-suicide-bomb-explosion-rocks-kabul-30897">Kabul on Saturday</a>&nbsp;in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years.

The horrific explosion came just a couple of days after gunmen stormed the office compound of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-blast-outside-save-the-children-in-jalalabad-30587">Save the Children charity in Jalalabad</a>, Afghanistan on Wednesday morning.

The Ministry further called the attack "reprehensible" noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice.

The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the massive suicide-bomb explosion in Kabul. The official release noted that the "barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul targeted innocent civilians and the wounded under treatment." India stands in solidarity with Govt & people of Afghanistan at this difficult time of mindless violence & terror imposed on them. We convey our heartfelt condolences to next of kins of victims of these terror attacks & pray for speedy recovery to those injured: MEA #KabulAttack — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2018 × The Ministry called the attack "reprehensible" noting that no justification for the tragedy would suffice. "The perpetrators of these attacks and their supporters should be brought to justice," the release noted. The Indian External Affairs department expressed its complete solidarity and utmost support with the Government and the people of Afghanistan. "We convey our heartfelt condolences to the next of kins of victims of these terror attacks and pray for a speedy recovery to those injured," noted the release which was tweeted by Raveesh Kumar, the official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India. India strongly condemns the barbaric and dastardly terrorist attacks in Kabul today. Full Press Release available at https://t.co/pPMhgb3tdz @IndianEmbKabul — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 27, 2018 × The MEA also worded its commitment to extend "all possible assistance, including for treatment of those injured." An explosives-packed ambulance blew up in a crowded area of Kabul on Saturday in one of the biggest blasts to rock the war-torn city in recent years. The horrific explosion came just a couple of days after gunmen stormed the office compound of the Save the Children charity in Jalalabad, Afghanistan on Wednesday morning.

India reacts to Kabul explosion: 'The perpetrators should be brought to justice,' says MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday advised citizens to defer all non-essential travels to the country and urged expatriates to remain on alert due to the recent developments.

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Indian nationals are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Male and other atolls untill further notice. Detailed travel advisory at <a href="https://t.co/DCdCkojESK">https://t.co/DCdCkojESK</a>
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/960544516418621441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Indian expatriates in Maldives are also alerted to the need for heightened security awareness and urged to exercise due caution in public and avoid public gatherings.

&quot;The prevailing political developments in Maldives and the resultant law and order situation is a matter of concern for the government. Indian nationals are, therefore, advised to defer all non-essential travels to Male and other atolls until further notice,&quot; the advisory said.

The advisory by India came immediately after beleaguered Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency.

Yameen, who has been defying Supreme Court&#39;s orders on releasing former president Mohamed Nasheed, and free eight other political opponents from prison, has now given sweeping powers to security forces in the country, which is facing widespread domestic protests against the president.

On Monday morning, Maldives capital Male remained tense, with the opposition and general public unrelentingly asking President Yameen to step down and allow a new leadership to take charge.

(With inputs from PTI)

The advisory by India came immediately after beleaguered Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday advised citizens to defer all non-essential travels to the country and urged expatriates to remain on alert due to the recent developments. Indian nationals are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Male and other atolls untill further notice. Detailed travel advisory at https://t.co/DCdCkojESK — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 5, 2018 × In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said Indian expatriates in Maldives are also alerted to the need for heightened security awareness and urged to exercise due caution in public and avoid public gatherings. "The prevailing political developments in Maldives and the resultant law and order situation is a matter of concern for the government. Indian nationals are, therefore, advised to defer all non-essential travels to Male and other atolls until further notice," the advisory said. The advisory by India came immediately after beleaguered Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency. Yameen, who has been defying Supreme Court's orders on releasing former president Mohamed Nasheed, and free eight other political opponents from prison, has now given sweeping powers to security forces in the country, which is facing widespread domestic protests against the president. On Monday morning, Maldives capital Male remained tense, with the opposition and general public unrelentingly asking President Yameen to step down and allow a new leadership to take charge. (With inputs from PTI)

India asks its nationals to defer travel to Maldives

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday reversed its decision to issue orange-coloured passports for those who require emigration checks. The government also went back on its decision to discontinue the practice of printing the last page of passports.&nbsp;

A decision was taken by the Ministry of External Affairs on the recommendations of a three-member Committee comprising officials of MEA and the Ministry of Women and Child Development, not to print the last page of Passport Booklet.

MEA also took the decision to issue a passport with an orange colour jacket to passport holders with ECR status, with a view to help and assist them on priority basis.&nbsp;

The MEA has received several individuals and collective representations requesting to reconsider these two decisions.&nbsp;

At a meeting chaired by Sushma Swaraj, External Affairs Minister, on 29th January 2018, in the presence of General&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;VK&nbsp;Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, the decision of the MEA on both these issues was reviewed in the light of these representations.

After comprehensive discussions with the various stakeholders, the MEA has decided to continue with the current practice of printing of the last page of the passport and not to issue a separate passport with orange colour jacket to ECR passport holders.&nbsp;

The Kerala High Court had issued a notice on Monday to the Centre based on a Public Interest Litigation plea challenging its decision to introduce orange-coloured passports.

A decision was taken by the Ministry of External Affairs on the recommendations of a three-member Committee comprising officials of MEA and the Ministry of Women and Child Development, not to print the last page of Passport Booklet

The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday reversed its decision to issue orange-coloured passports for those who require emigration checks. The government also went back on its decision to discontinue the practice of printing the last page of passports. A decision was taken by the Ministry of External Affairs on the recommendations of a three-member Committee comprising officials of MEA and the Ministry of Women and Child Development, not to print the last page of Passport Booklet. MEA also took the decision to issue a passport with an orange colour jacket to passport holders with ECR status, with a view to help and assist them on priority basis. The MEA has received several individuals and collective representations requesting to reconsider these two decisions. At a meeting chaired by Sushma Swaraj, External Affairs Minister, on 29th January 2018, in the presence of General Dr VK Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, the decision of the MEA on both these issues was reviewed in the light of these representations. After comprehensive discussions with the various stakeholders, the MEA has decided to continue with the current practice of printing of the last page of the passport and not to issue a separate passport with orange colour jacket to ECR passport holders. The Kerala High Court had issued a notice on Monday to the Centre based on a Public Interest Litigation plea challenging its decision to introduce orange-coloured passports.

No orange-coloured passport for ECR passport holders, rules MEA

China on Friday justified its massive construction activities in the Doklam area, describing it as &quot;legitimate&quot; and aimed at improving the lives of its troops and the people living on its own territory.

China&#39;s reaction came amid reports that it was building a huge military complex close to the site of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-soldiers-in-doklam-but-fewer-in-number-army-chief-general-rawat-29870">Dokalam stand-off</a> with India.

&quot;China&#39;s position on the Donglong (what China calls Doklam) area is quite clear. Donglong always belonged to China and always under China&#39;s effective jurisdiction. There is no dispute in this regard,&quot; Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, asserting Chinese sovereignty over the area which is also claimed by Bhutan.

&quot;China is exercising its sovereignty in its own territory. It&#39;s legitimate and justified. Just as China will not make comments about Indian construction of infrastructure on India&#39;s territory, we hope other countries will not make comment on China&#39;s construction of infrastructure on its territory,&quot; Lu added.

India, meanwhile, said it is keeping a close vigil on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/status-quo-not-altered-at-doklam-india-29981">latest developments</a>. &quot;We are keeping a close vigil,&quot; Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

Asked about reports citing satellite imagery of a Chinese military complex in the area, Lu said: &quot;I have also noted the relevant report. I don&#39;t know who offered such kind of photos.&quot;

But at same time he said he did not have detailed information on it.

Asked about concerns that China is preparing for a second standoff at Dokalam area, he said Indian troops&#39; intervention to stop building a key road close the Chicken Neck Corridor of India, has put the bilateral ties to severe test.

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a stand-off for over two months last year in the Doklam area near Sikkim before &quot;disengaging&quot; on August 28.

(With inputs from agencies)

China's reaction came amid reports that it was building a huge military complex close to the site of the Dokalam stand-off with India.

China on Friday justified its massive construction activities in the Doklam area, describing it as "legitimate" and aimed at improving the lives of its troops and the people living on its own territory. China's reaction came amid reports that it was building a huge military complex close to the site of the Dokalam stand-off with India. "China's position on the Donglong (what China calls Doklam) area is quite clear. Donglong always belonged to China and always under China's effective jurisdiction. There is no dispute in this regard," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, asserting Chinese sovereignty over the area which is also claimed by Bhutan. "China is exercising its sovereignty in its own territory. It's legitimate and justified. Just as China will not make comments about Indian construction of infrastructure on India's territory, we hope other countries will not make comment on China's construction of infrastructure on its territory," Lu added. India, meanwhile, said it is keeping a close vigil on latest developments. "We are keeping a close vigil," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. Asked about reports citing satellite imagery of a Chinese military complex in the area, Lu said: "I have also noted the relevant report. I don't know who offered such kind of photos." But at same time he said he did not have detailed information on it. Asked about concerns that China is preparing for a second standoff at Dokalam area, he said Indian troops' intervention to stop building a key road close the Chicken Neck Corridor of India, has put the bilateral ties to severe test. Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a stand-off for over two months last year in the Doklam area near Sikkim before "disengaging" on August 28. (With inputs from agencies)

China 'justifies' building infrastructure in Doklam; India says keeping a close vigil

As Pakistan released a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-releases-another-video-of-kulbhushan-jadhav-28518">new video of Kulbhashan Jadhav</a>, the ministry of external affairs(MEA) said it was not surprised by the new video asserting that Pakistan was simply continuing to put out &quot;coerced statements&quot; on the video.

In the recent video released by Pakistan, Jadhav said his mother was humiliated on the flight to Islamabad and that there was an Indian diplomat with her who shouted continuously at her, adding that he saw &quot;fear in the eyes of both his mother and wife.&quot;

The MEA slammed Pakistan saying: &quot;It is time for Pakistan to realise that such propagandistic exercises simply carry no credibility.&quot;

&quot;The absurdity of a captive under duress certifying his own welfare while mouthing allegations of his captors clearly merits no comment,&quot; the MEA added.

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&quot;Pakistan is best advised to fulfil its international obligations, whether it pertains to consular relations or UNSC resolutions 1267 and 1373 on terrorism and to desist from continuing violations of human rights of an Indian national,&quot;&nbsp;the MEA said.

Pakistan had earlier released a video and photographs of Jadhav&#39;s meeting with his wife and mother.&nbsp;

Jadhav&#39;s mother Avanti and wife Chetnakul had flown to Islamabad via Dubai on Christmas day to meet Jadhav.

In the recent video released by Pakistan, Jadhav said his mother was humiliated on the flight to Islamabad

As Pakistan released a new video of Kulbhashan Jadhav, the ministry of external affairs(MEA) said it was not surprised by the new video asserting that Pakistan was simply continuing to put out "coerced statements" on the video. In the recent video released by Pakistan, Jadhav said his mother was humiliated on the flight to Islamabad and that there was an Indian diplomat with her who shouted continuously at her, adding that he saw "fear in the eyes of both his mother and wife." The MEA slammed Pakistan saying: "It is time for Pakistan to realise that such propagandistic exercises simply carry no credibility." "The absurdity of a captive under duress certifying his own welfare while mouthing allegations of his captors clearly merits no comment," the MEA added. Our response to the latest video by Pakistan of Shri Kulbushan Jhadav pic.twitter.com/LXKJZJh18s — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 4, 2018 × "Pakistan is best advised to fulfil its international obligations, whether it pertains to consular relations or UNSC resolutions 1267 and 1373 on terrorism and to desist from continuing violations of human rights of an Indian national," the MEA said. Pakistan had earlier released a video and photographs of Jadhav's meeting with his wife and mother. Jadhav's mother Avanti and wife Chetnakul had flown to Islamabad via Dubai on Christmas day to meet Jadhav.

Pakistan's propaganda exercise on Jadhav carries no credibility: India

Shortly after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/palestine-expressed-deep-regrets-over-envoy-sharing-stage-with-hafiz-saeed-mea-28121">Palestine recalled its Ambassador to Pakistan</a>&nbsp;for sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed, Palestine issued an official statement reasserting its &quot;commitment and keenness to maintain strong and friendly relations with the Republic of India.&quot;

The official statement was tweeted by Union External Affairs Minister&nbsp;Sushma Swaraj&nbsp;a short while ago.&nbsp;

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The statement further outlined Palestine&#39;s support to India in &quot;its war against terrorism&quot; and &#39;&#39;terrorist threats&#39;&#39; and called the two nations as &quot;real partners in the war against terrorism.&quot;

India had strongly condemned Palestinian Ambassador to&nbsp;Pakistan for sharing the stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

&quot;Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan&#39;s association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is prescribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 29 is unacceptable,&quot; the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

&quot;The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador&#39;s presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately,&quot; read MEA&#39;s official press release.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India strongly condemned Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed

Shortly after Palestine recalled its Ambassador to Pakistan for sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed, Palestine issued an official statement reasserting its "commitment and keenness to maintain strong and friendly relations with the Republic of India." The official statement was tweeted by Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj a short while ago. pic.twitter.com/VB2E8HqmS0 — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) December 30, 2017 × The statement further outlined Palestine's support to India in "its war against terrorism" and ''terrorist threats'' and called the two nations as "real partners in the war against terrorism." India had strongly condemned Palestinian Ambassador to Pakistan for sharing the stage with terrorist Hafiz Saeed. "Government of India has strongly conveyed to the Palestinian side that the Palestinian Ambassador in Pakistan's association with terrorist Hafiz Saeed, who is prescribed by the United Nations, at an event in Rawalpindi on December 29 is unacceptable," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement. "The Palestinian side has conveyed deep regrets over the incident and assured the Government of India that they are taking serious cognizance of their Ambassador's presence at this event. They have said they will deal with this matter appropriately," read MEA's official press release.

'Our nations are partners in war against terrorism,' Palestine to India

Afghanistan&#39;s ambassador to India recently reacted on the harassment faced by Kulbhushan Jadhav&#39;s kin in Islamabad.&nbsp;

&quot;Human beings should be treated like humans only &amp; should not be made victims of politics,&quot; Shaida Mohammad Abdali was quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

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Human beings should be treated like humans only &amp; should not be made victims of politics: Shaida Mohammad Abdali, Afghanistan Ambassador to India on heckling &amp; harassing of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KulbhushanJadhav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KulbhushanJadhav</a>&#39;s mother &amp; wife in Islamabad <a href="https://t.co/l983KHLEYA">pic.twitter.com/l983KHLEYA</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/947112728409206784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Former Indian naval officer, Kulbhushan Jadhav met his family on December 25 at Pakistan&#39;s Foreign Ministry office in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Jadhav&#39;s family returned to India that evening and met Union External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj a day later.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs reported that Jadhav&#39;s family was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/killer-son-played-holi-with-blood-of-pakistanis-jadhavs-wife-mother-heckled-by-media-in-islamabad-27829">heckled and harassed</a> during their meeting with Jadhav and that the manner in which the meeting was conducted violated the terms and agreements that the two countries had agreed upon.&nbsp;

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the &quot;cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded&quot;.&nbsp;

Kulbhushan Jadhav faces espionage charges and was sentenced to death by Pakistan on April 10, 2017.&nbsp;

Jadhav&#39;s execution was halted in May 2018 after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) intervened.&nbsp;

The case currently rests with the world court for further action.&nbsp;

Kulbhushan Jadhav faces espionage charges and was sentenced to death by Pakistan on April 10, 2017

Afghanistan's ambassador to India recently reacted on the harassment faced by Kulbhushan Jadhav's kin in Islamabad. "Human beings should be treated like humans only & should not be made victims of politics," Shaida Mohammad Abdali was quoted by ANI. Human beings should be treated like humans only & should not be made victims of politics: Shaida Mohammad Abdali, Afghanistan Ambassador to India on heckling & harassing of #KulbhushanJadhav's mother & wife in Islamabad pic.twitter.com/l983KHLEYA — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2017 × Former Indian naval officer, Kulbhushan Jadhav met his family on December 25 at Pakistan's Foreign Ministry office in Islamabad. Jadhav's family returned to India that evening and met Union External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj a day later. The Ministry of External Affairs reported that Jadhav's family was heckled and harassed during their meeting with Jadhav and that the manner in which the meeting was conducted violated the terms and agreements that the two countries had agreed upon. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the "cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded". Kulbhushan Jadhav faces espionage charges and was sentenced to death by Pakistan on April 10, 2017. Jadhav's execution was halted in May 2018 after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) intervened. The case currently rests with the world court for further action.

Afghanistan's Ambassador to India reacts on Jadhav's kin harassment

Jailed Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav was shocked to see his mother without her &#39;mangal sutra&#39; and &#39;vermillion,&#39; compelling him to ask about his father first, during the 40 minutes meeting with his family in Islamabad on December 25.&nbsp;

Thinking of something unfortunate might have happened while he was not around, Jadhav asked &#39;baba kaise hai&#39; (How is father), as informed by Sushma Swaraj in Parliament today. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The External Affairs Minister described the meeting as a propaganda by Pakistan, adding that an environment of fear was created for Jadhav&#39;s kin and both were made to look like widows.

&quot;Jadhav Ji&#39;s mother, who only wears a saree, was forced to wear salwar-kurta. Bindi, bangles and mangalsutras of both women were removed. Both the married women were made to like widows,&quot; Sushma said.

&quot;Kulbhushan Jadhav&#39;s mother was not allowed to speak in Marathi. Two Pakistani officials present in the meeting kept stopping her repeatedly, and when she continued, the intercom was switched off,&quot; she added.

Meanwhile, leader of the Opposition of Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad condemned Pakistan&#39;s misbehavior as one targeted towards Indians on the whole, and not just Jadhav and his family.

Jadhav thought something unfortunate might have happened while he was not around

Jailed Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav was shocked to see his mother without her 'mangal sutra' and 'vermillion,' compelling him to ask about his father first, during the 40 minutes meeting with his family in Islamabad on December 25. Thinking of something unfortunate might have happened while he was not around, Jadhav asked 'baba kaise hai' (How is father), as informed by Sushma Swaraj in Parliament today. The External Affairs Minister described the meeting as a propaganda by Pakistan, adding that an environment of fear was created for Jadhav's kin and both were made to look like widows. "Jadhav Ji's mother, who only wears a saree, was forced to wear salwar-kurta. Bindi, bangles and mangalsutras of both women were removed. Both the married women were made to like widows," Sushma said. "Kulbhushan Jadhav's mother was not allowed to speak in Marathi. Two Pakistani officials present in the meeting kept stopping her repeatedly, and when she continued, the intercom was switched off," she added. Meanwhile, leader of the Opposition of Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad condemned Pakistan's misbehavior as one targeted towards Indians on the whole, and not just Jadhav and his family.

'Baba kaise hai', asked Kulbhushan Jadhav on seeing his mother without 'mangal sutra' in Islamabad

Former Indian naval officer, Kulbhushan Jadhav, who faces espionage charges and has been sentenced to death by Pakistan, met his family at Pakistan&#39;s foreign office in Islamabad yesterday.

The meeting took place after multiple requests made by India for family access.

A day after the meeting, Jadhav&#39;s family met Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj.&nbsp;

According to a statement issued today by the Ministry of External Affairs, &quot;the two Governments were in touch through diplomatic channels to work out its modalities and format. There were clear understandings between the two sides and the Indian side scrupulously abided by all its commitments.&quot;&nbsp;

The MEA statement stated Pakistan&nbsp;to have violated the conditions mentioned in the letter by conducting the meeting in a manner dissimilar to what was agreed upon.&nbsp;

The official press release gave a detailed account of incidents that violated the terms mutually agreed upon by both the countries.&nbsp;

The statement noted that Pakistani press&#39; multiple interactions with Jadhav&#39;s family members caused them harassment.

Member of the local press &quot;hurled false and motivated accusations about Shri Jadhav&quot;. &quot;This was despite a clear agreement that the media would not be allowed close access,&quot; the MEA statement said.

&quot;The manner in which the meeting was conducted and its aftermath was clearly an attempt to bolster a false and unsubstantiated narrative of Shri Jadhav&rsquo;s alleged activities,&quot; MEA stated.&nbsp;

&quot;The cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded. &nbsp;

According to the release, Jadhav&#39;s kin was asked to remove mangal sutra, bangles and bindi and were also asked to change their attire.

&quot;For some inexplicable reason, despite her repeated requests, Shri Jadhav&#39;s wife was not given her shoes back after she was returning from the meeting.

The MEA release also revealed that Jadhav&#39;s&nbsp;mother was prevented from talking in their mother tongue, &quot;although this was clearly the natural medium of communication.&nbsp;She was repeatedly interrupted while doing so and eventually prevented from proceeding further in this regard.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Deputy High Commissioner (DHC) was initially separated from family members who were taken to the meeting without informing him.

The meeting was started without the Deputy High Commissioner who could join only after pressing the matter with concerned officials. &quot;Even then, he (DHC) was kept behind an additional partition that did not allow him access to the meeting as agreed,&quot; said the statement.&nbsp;

&quot;We would caution against any mischievous intent in this regard,&quot; claimed MEA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&quot;It appeared that Shri Jadhav was under considerable stress and speaking in an atmosphere of coercion. Most of his remarks were clearly tutored and designed to perpetuate the false narrative of his alleged activities in Pakistan. His appearance also raises questions on his health and well being,&quot; MEA noted.&nbsp;

&quot;We also regret that contrary to assurances, the overall atmosphere of the meeting was intimidating insofar as family members were concerned.&nbsp;Family members, however, handled the situation with great courage and fortitude,&quot; stated MEA.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The statement gave a detailed account of incidents that violated the terms mutually agreed upon by both the countries with respect to Jadhav's meeting with his family

Former Indian naval officer, Kulbhushan Jadhav, who faces espionage charges and has been sentenced to death by Pakistan, met his family at Pakistan's foreign office in Islamabad yesterday. The meeting took place after multiple requests made by India for family access. A day after the meeting, Jadhav's family met Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj. According to a statement issued today by the Ministry of External Affairs, "the two Governments were in touch through diplomatic channels to work out its modalities and format. There were clear understandings between the two sides and the Indian side scrupulously abided by all its commitments." The MEA statement stated Pakistan to have violated the conditions mentioned in the letter by conducting the meeting in a manner dissimilar to what was agreed upon. The official press release gave a detailed account of incidents that violated the terms mutually agreed upon by both the countries. The statement noted that Pakistani press' multiple interactions with Jadhav's family members caused them harassment. Member of the local press "hurled false and motivated accusations about Shri Jadhav". "This was despite a clear agreement that the media would not be allowed close access," the MEA statement said. "The manner in which the meeting was conducted and its aftermath was clearly an attempt to bolster a false and unsubstantiated narrative of Shri Jadhav’s alleged activities," MEA stated. "The cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded. According to the release, Jadhav's kin was asked to remove mangal sutra, bangles and bindi and were also asked to change their attire. "For some inexplicable reason, despite her repeated requests, Shri Jadhav's wife was not given her shoes back after she was returning from the meeting. The MEA release also revealed that Jadhav's mother was prevented from talking in their mother tongue, "although this was clearly the natural medium of communication. She was repeatedly interrupted while doing so and eventually prevented from proceeding further in this regard." The Deputy High Commissioner (DHC) was initially separated from family members who were taken to the meeting without informing him. The meeting was started without the Deputy High Commissioner who could join only after pressing the matter with concerned officials. "Even then, he (DHC) was kept behind an additional partition that did not allow him access to the meeting as agreed," said the statement. "We would caution against any mischievous intent in this regard," claimed MEA. "It appeared that Shri Jadhav was under considerable stress and speaking in an atmosphere of coercion. Most of his remarks were clearly tutored and designed to perpetuate the false narrative of his alleged activities in Pakistan. His appearance also raises questions on his health and well being," MEA noted. "We also regret that contrary to assurances, the overall atmosphere of the meeting was intimidating insofar as family members were concerned. Family members, however, handled the situation with great courage and fortitude," stated MEA.

In a blistering attack, MEA says Pakistan heckled Kulbhushan Jadhav's family

The mother and wife of Kulbhushan Jadhav on Tuesday met External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj at her residence in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The meeting took place a day after the two officially went to Pakistan to meet their son and husband respectively. &nbsp;

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Mother and wife of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KulbhushanJadhav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KulbhushanJadhav</a> leave from residence of EAM Sushma Swaraj in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/FFWIb4HcvJ">pic.twitter.com/FFWIb4HcvJ</a>
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Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar were also present at the meeting.

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Jadhav, the Indian national sentenced to death in Pakistan, was allowed to meet his family, from behind a glass barrier at the Pakistan foreign ministry in Islamabad.

It was Jadhav&#39;s first meeting with his family, more than a year after he was arrested by the Pakistani Army over alleged espionage and spying activities in March last year.

Mother Avanti and wife Chetankul Jadhav were accompanied to the ministry by Indian deputy high Commissioner JP Singh and three Indian foreign ministry officials.&nbsp;

Only Jadhav&rsquo;s family was allowed into the room where he was sitting, while Singh and other officials monitored the meeting from outside the room.

The meeting lasted for 40 minutes.

The meeting took place a day after the two officially went to Pakistan to meet Jadhav?

The mother and wife of Kulbhushan Jadhav on Tuesday met External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj at her residence in New Delhi. The meeting took place a day after the two officially went to Pakistan to meet their son and husband respectively. Mother and wife of #KulbhushanJadhav leave from residence of EAM Sushma Swaraj in Delhi pic.twitter.com/FFWIb4HcvJ — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2017 × Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar were also present at the meeting. Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar at the residence of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in Delhi pic.twitter.com/C5MCnuUz6Z — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2017 × Jadhav, the Indian national sentenced to death in Pakistan, was allowed to meet his family, from behind a glass barrier at the Pakistan foreign ministry in Islamabad. It was Jadhav's first meeting with his family, more than a year after he was arrested by the Pakistani Army over alleged espionage and spying activities in March last year. Mother Avanti and wife Chetankul Jadhav were accompanied to the ministry by Indian deputy high Commissioner JP Singh and three Indian foreign ministry officials. Only Jadhav’s family was allowed into the room where he was sitting, while Singh and other officials monitored the meeting from outside the room. The meeting lasted for 40 minutes.

Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife, mother meet Sushma Swaraj

India has welcomed US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson&rsquo;s statement where he called upon India to &quot;take leadership role in regional security&quot;.

Speaking at&nbsp;the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington on Wednesday, Tillerson had said, &quot;Security and stability is important for economic growth.&nbsp;India and the US are working towards shared security goals.&quot;&nbsp;&quot;India must take leadership role in regional security,&quot; he added.

&quot;US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has made a significant policy statement on India-US relations and its future. He brought out its various strengths and highlighted our shared commitment to a rule-based international order,&quot; the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Friday.

We appreciate Tillerson&#39;s positive evaluation of the relationship and share his optimism about its future directions, it added.

Tillerson made the remarks ahead of his&nbsp;week-long five-nation tour beginning Saturday which will take him to Pakistan,&nbsp;Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Switzerland apart from India.

Tillerson is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi next week, where he will meet with senior Indian leaders to discuss further strengthening of strategic partnership between India and the US and collaboration on security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

&quot;The Secretary&#39;s visit to India will advance the ambitious agenda laid out by President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Prime Minister&#39;s visit to the White House in June,&quot;&nbsp;State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said.

Tillerson, in the first major foreign policy speech on October 18, said the US is India&#39;s &quot;reliable partner&quot; at the world stage in this period of uncertainty and angst, sending a strong signal to side with India amidst China&#39;s &quot;provocative actions&quot; in the region.

In the speech, he said the emerging Delhi-Washington strategic partnership stands upon a shared commitment upholding the rule of law, freedom of navigation, universal values and free trade.

(With inputs from PTI)

India has welcomed US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson?s statement where he called upon India to "take leadership role in regional security".

India has welcomed US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson’s statement where he called upon India to "take leadership role in regional security". Speaking at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington on Wednesday, Tillerson had said, "Security and stability is important for economic growth. India and the US are working towards shared security goals." "India must take leadership role in regional security," he added. "US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has made a significant policy statement on India-US relations and its future. He brought out its various strengths and highlighted our shared commitment to a rule-based international order," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Friday. We appreciate Tillerson's positive evaluation of the relationship and share his optimism about its future directions, it added. Tillerson made the remarks ahead of his week-long five-nation tour beginning Saturday which will take him to Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Switzerland apart from India. Tillerson is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi next week, where he will meet with senior Indian leaders to discuss further strengthening of strategic partnership between India and the US and collaboration on security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. "The Secretary's visit to India will advance the ambitious agenda laid out by President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Prime Minister's visit to the White House in June," State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said. Tillerson, in the first major foreign policy speech on October 18, said the US is India's "reliable partner" at the world stage in this period of uncertainty and angst, sending a strong signal to side with India amidst China's "provocative actions" in the region. In the speech, he said the emerging Delhi-Washington strategic partnership stands upon a shared commitment upholding the rule of law, freedom of navigation, universal values and free trade. (With inputs from PTI)

Tillerson's statement significant, we share the same optimism about Indo-US ties: MEA

India and the US have called on Pakistan to stop its soil from being used as a terror launchpad, Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar said at a Ministry of External Affairs media briefing after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Jaishankar said India and the US, in a joint statement, have called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice perpatrators of terror attacks like 26/11, Pathankot, and other cross-border attacks perpetrated by Pakistan-based terror groups.&nbsp;

Jaishankar added that the designation of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a &quot;global terrorist&quot; before the Modi-Trump meeting was &quot;a strong signal from the administration&quot;.&nbsp;

Watch video of the media briefing below:&nbsp;

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Jaishankar added that terrorism was identified as a key challenge in the Trump-Modi meeting.&nbsp;

And that discussions were also held on the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

The meeting between the two leaders, said Jaishankar, was cordial, focused and open.&nbsp;

There was a great degree of ease, he said.&nbsp;

Both leaders emphasised the importance of free and fair trade, Jaishankar added.&nbsp;

Jaishankar also added that President Trump had accepted Prime Minister Modi&#39;s invitation to visit India.&nbsp;

But he said he had no further details about the possible visit at the moment.&nbsp;

Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar said India and the US, in a joint statement, have called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice perpatrators of terror attacks like 26/11 & Pathankot

India and the US have called on Pakistan to stop its soil from being used as a terror launchpad, Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar said at a Ministry of External Affairs media briefing after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Donald Trump. Jaishankar said India and the US, in a joint statement, have called on Pakistan to expeditiously bring to justice perpatrators of terror attacks like 26/11, Pathankot, and other cross-border attacks perpetrated by Pakistan-based terror groups. Jaishankar added that the designation of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a "global terrorist" before the Modi-Trump meeting was "a strong signal from the administration". Watch video of the media briefing below: Jaishankar added that terrorism was identified as a key challenge in the Trump-Modi meeting. And that discussions were also held on the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the United Nations Security Council. The meeting between the two leaders, said Jaishankar, was cordial, focused and open. There was a great degree of ease, he said. Both leaders emphasised the importance of free and fair trade, Jaishankar added. Jaishankar also added that President Trump had accepted Prime Minister Modi's invitation to visit India. But he said he had no further details about the possible visit at the moment.

India & US have called on Pakistan to stop its soil from being used as terror launchpad: MEA

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