India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

He was responding to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. Sri Lanka is reeling under a major economic crisis and has requested several countries and international donors, including India to provide debt relief.

Asked about reports of a Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi meeting several leaders in Nepal and whether she was meddling in the country's political turmoil, Srivastava refused to comment. "I have no comment to offer on the internal political situation of Nepal," he said.

Replying to a question on the Enrica Lexie case, Srivastava said there was no delay on the part of the Ministry of External Affairs in informing the Supreme Court and the Kerala government about the verdict of an international tribunal on it.

The tribunal in its judgment said that two Italian marines who shot dead two Indian fishermen cannot be tried in an Indian court. However, it upheld the conduct of the Indian authorities following the incident in 2012.

India accused two Italian marines, Salvatore Girone and Massimiliano Latorre, onboard the MV Enrica Lexie, an Italian flagged oil tanker, of shooting dead the two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel off Kerala in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The incident had taken place off the Kerala coast on February 15, 2012.

India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said.

India on Thursday said it was holding talks with Sri Lanka over its request for postponement of repayment of debt. "The matter has progressed and technical level discussions are presently underway," spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said. He was responding to a question on the issue at an online media briefing. Sri Lanka is reeling under a major economic crisis and has requested several countries and international donors, including India to provide debt relief. Asked about reports of a Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi meeting several leaders in Nepal and whether she was meddling in the country's political turmoil, Srivastava refused to comment. "I have no comment to offer on the internal political situation of Nepal," he said. Replying to a question on the Enrica Lexie case, Srivastava said there was no delay on the part of the Ministry of External Affairs in informing the Supreme Court and the Kerala government about the verdict of an international tribunal on it. The tribunal in its judgment said that two Italian marines who shot dead two Indian fishermen cannot be tried in an Indian court. However, it upheld the conduct of the Indian authorities following the incident in 2012. India accused two Italian marines, Salvatore Girone and Massimiliano Latorre, onboard the MV Enrica Lexie, an Italian flagged oil tanker, of shooting dead the two Indian fishermen who were on a fishing vessel off Kerala in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The incident had taken place off the Kerala coast on February 15, 2012.

India in talks with Sri Lanka over its request for debt relief: Ministry of External Affairs

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland.

Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens.

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Hyvää päivää! 
 
Honoured and proud for the opportunity to represent my country as Ambassador to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Finland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Finland</a>, a stunningly beautiful nation with the happiest people on the planet. Looking forward to play my role towards a stronger and vibrant India-Finland relationship. <a href="https://t.co/6vALbaypyy">pic.twitter.com/6vALbaypyy</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@raveesh_kumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/raveesh_kumar/status/1268108280519327749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said.&nbsp;

Raveesh Kumar has served for 33 months in the high-profile MEA spokesperson post. He passed on the baton to Anurag Srivastava in April this year.

His diplomatic career began with the Indian Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia. He was also posted in Thimpu and London. While being posted in Delhi, he looked after the East Asia desk. Before being the Consul General of India at Frankfurt, Germany, he was the Deputy Chief of Mission in Jakarta from September 2010 to August 2013.

In Finland, he succeeds Vani Rao. Finland is an important country for India in Europe, and bilateral trade has been on an upswing in the last few years. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland. Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens.

The current Joint Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Finland. Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, served as the spokesperson of the MEA from July 2017 to April 2020 during which he deftly articulated India's position on several sensitive issues including last year's Balakot strike, reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir and the controversy surrounding the National Register of Citizens. Hyvää päivää! Honoured and proud for the opportunity to represent my country as Ambassador to #Finland, a stunningly beautiful nation with the happiest people on the planet. Looking forward to play my role towards a stronger and vibrant India-Finland relationship. pic.twitter.com/6vALbaypyy — Raveesh Kumar (@raveesh_kumar) June 3, 2020 × "He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said. Raveesh Kumar has served for 33 months in the high-profile MEA spokesperson post. He passed on the baton to Anurag Srivastava in April this year. His diplomatic career began with the Indian Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia. He was also posted in Thimpu and London. While being posted in Delhi, he looked after the East Asia desk. Before being the Consul General of India at Frankfurt, Germany, he was the Deputy Chief of Mission in Jakarta from September 2010 to August 2013. In Finland, he succeeds Vani Rao. Finland is an important country for India in Europe, and bilateral trade has been on an upswing in the last few years. (With inputs from agencies)

Raveesh Kumar appointed as next Ambassador of India to Finland

Senior diplomat Anurag Srivastava on Monday took charge as the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, succeeding Raveesh Kumar.

Srivastava, a 1999-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, was serving as India's Ambassador to Ethiopia.

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Honoured and privileged to take over as the Official Spokesperson of <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>. I look forward to working closely with all to fulfill my responsibilities in this new role. <a href="https://t.co/dhwoZM6D69">https://t.co/dhwoZM6D69</a>
— Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1247073752522715136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Before he was appointed as Indian envoy to Ethiopia,&nbsp;he was part of the Finance Division of the MEA which is tasked to administer it''s annual budget of about USD 2 billion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-experienced-strength-of-togetherness-of-130-crore-indians-yesterday-pm-modi-290829" hreflang="en">We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi</a>

Srivastava served at the India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva where he dealt with work related to human rights, refugee issues and trade policy.

He also served in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division of the ministry at its headquarters and&nbsp;has degrees in engineering and business management and had a brief stint in the corporate sector before joining the Indian Foreign Service. He also has a postgraduate diploma in Diplomatic Studies from the Oxford University.

Senior diplomat Anurag Srivastava on Monday took charge as the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, succeeding Raveesh Kumar. Srivastava, a 1999-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, was serving as India's Ambassador to Ethiopia.

Senior diplomat Anurag Srivastava on Monday took charge as the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, succeeding Raveesh Kumar. Srivastava, a 1999-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, was serving as India's Ambassador to Ethiopia. Honoured and privileged to take over as the Official Spokesperson of @MEAIndia. I look forward to working closely with all to fulfill my responsibilities in this new role. https://t.co/dhwoZM6D69 — Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) April 6, 2020 × Before he was appointed as Indian envoy to Ethiopia, he was part of the Finance Division of the MEA which is tasked to administer it''s annual budget of about USD 2 billion. Also read: We experienced strength of togetherness of 130 crore Indians yesterday: PM Modi Srivastava served at the India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva where he dealt with work related to human rights, refugee issues and trade policy. He also served in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division of the ministry at its headquarters and has degrees in engineering and business management and had a brief stint in the corporate sector before joining the Indian Foreign Service. He also has a postgraduate diploma in Diplomatic Studies from the Oxford University.

Anurag Srivastava takes charge as MEA spokesperson

The Delhi High Court Wednesday directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure welfare and safety of around 300 Indian students stranded at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan for the past 2-3 days without food and medical aid due to coronavirus pandemic. 
 
A bench of justices Siddharth Mridul and Talwant Singh, which conducted the hearing through video conferencing, asked the authorities to expeditiously provide the students basic amenities and assistance with regard to food, medical care, lodging and transportation. 
 
The hearing was conducted through video conferencing. The two judges joined from their homes while advocate Fozia Rahman, who appeared for the petitioner, and central government standing counsel Jasmeet Singh, who represented the MEA, were at their offices.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/17-covid-19-cases-confirmed-in-haryana-288469" hreflang="en">17 COVID-19 cases confirmed in Haryana</a> 
 
Rahman informed the court that 300 Indian students, who are enrolled for higher studies, including MBBS, at Semey Medical University in Kazakhstan are stranded at the Almaty Airport without food, water, transportation and medical aid. 
 
The petition was filed by Sehla Saira, mother of one of the stranded students. 
 
The court issued notice to the Centre through MEA and granted time to file response to the petition. 
 
"Let this bench be apprised of the brief response/reply on March 28," the court said in its three-page order," it said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahabharata-battle-won-in-18-days-war-against-covid-19-will-take-21-days-pm-modi-288468" hreflang="en">Mahabharata battle won in 18 days, war against COVID-19 will take 21 days: PM Modi</a> 
 
"In the meantime...In view of the unsettled and difficult situation -- emerging from the global COVID-19 pandemic -- in which Indian students find themselves stranded at the Almaty Airport, Kazakhstan, we find it incumbent upon us to direct the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to promptly appoint a nodal officer from the Indian Embassy in Kazakhstan to ensure, inter alia, the welfare, well-being and safety of all such Indian students," the bench said. 
 
It also directed the nodal officer to expeditiously facilitate, secure and provide these students will all basic amenities and humanitarian assistance. 
 
The court said the details of the nodal officer, including his name and telephone number, be communicated to the Indian students stranded at the Almaty Airport and be also uploaded on website of Indian Embassy at Kazakhstan and on the website of MEA immediately. 
 
The court listed the matter for further hearing on March 28.

The Delhi High Court Wednesday directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure welfare and safety of around 300 Indian students stranded at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan for the past 2-3 days without food and medical aid due to coronavirus pandemic.

The Delhi High Court Wednesday directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure welfare and safety of around 300 Indian students stranded at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan for the past 2-3 days without food and medical aid due to coronavirus pandemic. A bench of justices Siddharth Mridul and Talwant Singh, which conducted the hearing through video conferencing, asked the authorities to expeditiously provide the students basic amenities and assistance with regard to food, medical care, lodging and transportation. The hearing was conducted through video conferencing. The two judges joined from their homes while advocate Fozia Rahman, who appeared for the petitioner, and central government standing counsel Jasmeet Singh, who represented the MEA, were at their offices. Also read: 17 COVID-19 cases confirmed in Haryana Rahman informed the court that 300 Indian students, who are enrolled for higher studies, including MBBS, at Semey Medical University in Kazakhstan are stranded at the Almaty Airport without food, water, transportation and medical aid. The petition was filed by Sehla Saira, mother of one of the stranded students. The court issued notice to the Centre through MEA and granted time to file response to the petition. "Let this bench be apprised of the brief response/reply on March 28," the court said in its three-page order," it said. Also read: Mahabharata battle won in 18 days, war against COVID-19 will take 21 days: PM Modi "In the meantime...In view of the unsettled and difficult situation -- emerging from the global COVID-19 pandemic -- in which Indian students find themselves stranded at the Almaty Airport, Kazakhstan, we find it incumbent upon us to direct the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to promptly appoint a nodal officer from the Indian Embassy in Kazakhstan to ensure, inter alia, the welfare, well-being and safety of all such Indian students," the bench said. It also directed the nodal officer to expeditiously facilitate, secure and provide these students will all basic amenities and humanitarian assistance. The court said the details of the nodal officer, including his name and telephone number, be communicated to the Indian students stranded at the Almaty Airport and be also uploaded on website of Indian Embassy at Kazakhstan and on the website of MEA immediately. The court listed the matter for further hearing on March 28.

Delhi HC directs MEA to ensure safety of 300 Indian students stranded in Kazakhstan

India has criticized Pakistan's attempt of raising the Kashmir issue at SAARC video conference organized to talk out a strategy to fight COVID-19. Watch what Indian MEA said on this issue.

MEA: Pakistan is politicising a humanitarian issue at SAARC video conference

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar says that ''We have successfully carried out the evacuation of 640 Indian nationals and 7 nationals of the Maldives on two flights. These Indian nationals belong to Wuhan and nearby areas and who did not show any symptoms of illness.''

Indian Government Briefs Media On Coronavirus

The government has evacuated 640 Indians from coronavirus-hit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-shortages-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-china-struggles-with-need-for-more-masks-hospital-beds-medical-equipment-279082">China </a>and the complex operation was done with Beijing's assistance, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-wuhan-evacuation-crew-given-leave-for-one-week-278460">Ministry of External Affairs</a> (MEA) said on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-wuhan-evacuation-crew-given-leave-for-one-week-278460">Air India's Wuhan evacuation crew given leave for one week</a>

MEA Spokesperson <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-indias-wuhan-evacuation-crew-given-leave-for-one-week-278460">Raveesh Kumar</a> said apart from those evacuated, 10 other Indians have indicated that they want to come back from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-shortages-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-china-struggles-with-need-for-more-masks-hospital-beds-medical-equipment-279082">China</a>, but were unable to clear the health screening process.

"We are in regular contact with them and exploring all possibilities for their return," Kumar said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-temporarily-suspends-e-visa-facility-for-chinese-and-foreigners-residing-in-china-278144">Coronavirus: India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China</a>

In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, normal visas and all existing e-visas from China that have been issued are no longer valid, he said.

The death toll due to the deadly virus has risen&nbsp;to over&nbsp;560 with the number of infections surging to 28,000 in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/severe-shortages-amid-coronavirus-outbreak-china-struggles-with-need-for-more-masks-hospital-beds-medical-equipment-279082">China </a>.

The novel virus has already spread to twenty countries and was declared a ''global emergency health emergency by the World Health Organisation.

The government has evacuated 640 Indians from coronavirus-hit China and the complex operation was done with Beijing's assistance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

The government has evacuated 640 Indians from coronavirus-hit China and the complex operation was done with Beijing's assistance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday. Also read: Air India's Wuhan evacuation crew given leave for one week MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said apart from those evacuated, 10 other Indians have indicated that they want to come back from China, but were unable to clear the health screening process. "We are in regular contact with them and exploring all possibilities for their return," Kumar said. Also read: Coronavirus: India temporarily suspends e-visa facility for Chinese and foreigners residing in China In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, normal visas and all existing e-visas from China that have been issued are no longer valid, he said. The death toll due to the deadly virus has risen to over 560 with the number of infections surging to 28,000 in China . The novel virus has already spread to twenty countries and was declared a ''global emergency health emergency by the World Health Organisation.

640 Indians evacuated from coronavirus-hit China in complex operation: Ministry of External Affairs

The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that the regional cooperation promoted under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has been affected by the cross border terrorism that is being supported by "one country," in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

"India enjoys an excellent bilateral relationship with all the SAARC countries except one. Regional cooperation is adversely affected when you have cross border terrorism, where a country supports cross border terrorism and when a country also interferes in the internal matters of another country," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a weekly briefing.

On Friday, Nepal Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that his country is not only ready but "eager and in hurry" to hand over the chairmanship of SAARC as they have been carrying the "baggage since more than four years" that was supposed to hand over in 2016.

SAARC is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of states in South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives.

The 18th SAARC summit was the last annual meeting attended by India that took place in Kathmandu in 2014.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-ready-to-tackle-coronavirus-maintaining-close-contact-with-indians-in-china-mea-277539">India is ready to tackle coronavirus, maintaining close contact with Indians in China, says MEA&nbsp;</a>

Pakistan was to host the next summit in 2016, but, the summit was cancelled after India decided against participating in it following the terror attack at a military camp at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir.

Other countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate and the meeting was called off following India's decision to exit the summit to step up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

In December last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that efforts for greater collaboration among SAARC member states have been repeatedly challenged with threats and acts of terror and such an environment impedes the shared objective of realising the regional body's full potential.

"SAARC has made progress, but more needs to be done. Our efforts for greater collaboration have repeatedly been challenged with threats and acts of terrorism. Such an environment impedes our shared objective of realising the full potential of SAARC," Prime Minister Modi had said in a letter addressed to the SAARC Secretariat.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that the regional cooperation promoted under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has been affected by the cross border terrorism that is being supported by "one country," in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that the regional cooperation promoted under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has been affected by the cross border terrorism that is being supported by "one country," in an apparent reference to Pakistan. "India enjoys an excellent bilateral relationship with all the SAARC countries except one. Regional cooperation is adversely affected when you have cross border terrorism, where a country supports cross border terrorism and when a country also interferes in the internal matters of another country," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a weekly briefing. On Friday, Nepal Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that his country is not only ready but "eager and in hurry" to hand over the chairmanship of SAARC as they have been carrying the "baggage since more than four years" that was supposed to hand over in 2016. SAARC is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of states in South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives. The 18th SAARC summit was the last annual meeting attended by India that took place in Kathmandu in 2014. Also read: India is ready to tackle coronavirus, maintaining close contact with Indians in China, says MEA Pakistan was to host the next summit in 2016, but, the summit was cancelled after India decided against participating in it following the terror attack at a military camp at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir. Other countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate and the meeting was called off following India's decision to exit the summit to step up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. In December last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that efforts for greater collaboration among SAARC member states have been repeatedly challenged with threats and acts of terror and such an environment impedes the shared objective of realising the regional body's full potential. "SAARC has made progress, but more needs to be done. Our efforts for greater collaboration have repeatedly been challenged with threats and acts of terrorism. Such an environment impedes our shared objective of realising the full potential of SAARC," Prime Minister Modi had said in a letter addressed to the SAARC Secretariat.

Pak's support of cross-border terrorism adversely affected regional cooperation under SAARC: MEA

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province.

The death toll in the deadly new coronavirus in China rose to 56 on Sunday with confirmed cases of viral affliction reaching 2,008, including 23 from abroad.

The pneumonia outbreak was first reported in Wuhan City, central China's Hubei Province, in December 2019. The city of 11 million has been in quarantine since Thursday -- with nobody allowed to leave as the government tries to contain its spread.

Apart from Wuhan, 12 other cities have been completely sealed by the Chinese authorities to stop the virus from spreading.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-to-postpone-reopening-of-citys-kindergartens-schools-universities-report-276635">Beijing to postpone reopening of city's kindergartens, schools, universities</a>

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is closely monitoring the situation, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"We are also closely coordinating with Chinese authorities. As of now, we understand that no Indian citizens have been affected by the outbreak and that food and water supplies are available to them," Kumar tweeted.

He said the Indian Embassy in China has also made operational three helplines to respond to any concerns of Indians in that country.

"Our embassy in Beijing is in close touch with Indian citizens including students to extend assistance, including on possible travel options out of Hubei province," the MEA spokesperson said in another tweet.

He said the Indian embassy and Consulates General in China are working with Chinese authorities to try and facilitate Indian citizens caught up in these "difficult circumstances".

Earlier on Sunday, Jaishankar said the Indian Embassy in Beijing is constantly checking on the health and well-being of Indians in China.

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province.

The External Affairs Ministry said on Sunday that as of now no Indian in China has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak and the embassy in Beijing is in close touch with all Indians, including university students, in Wuhan and elsewhere in Hubei province. The death toll in the deadly new coronavirus in China rose to 56 on Sunday with confirmed cases of viral affliction reaching 2,008, including 23 from abroad. The pneumonia outbreak was first reported in Wuhan City, central China's Hubei Province, in December 2019. The city of 11 million has been in quarantine since Thursday -- with nobody allowed to leave as the government tries to contain its spread. Apart from Wuhan, 12 other cities have been completely sealed by the Chinese authorities to stop the virus from spreading. Also read: Beijing to postpone reopening of city's kindergartens, schools, universities External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is closely monitoring the situation, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. "We are also closely coordinating with Chinese authorities. As of now, we understand that no Indian citizens have been affected by the outbreak and that food and water supplies are available to them," Kumar tweeted. He said the Indian Embassy in China has also made operational three helplines to respond to any concerns of Indians in that country. "Our embassy in Beijing is in close touch with Indian citizens including students to extend assistance, including on possible travel options out of Hubei province," the MEA spokesperson said in another tweet. He said the Indian embassy and Consulates General in China are working with Chinese authorities to try and facilitate Indian citizens caught up in these "difficult circumstances". Earlier on Sunday, Jaishankar said the Indian Embassy in Beijing is constantly checking on the health and well-being of Indians in China.

As of now no Indian affected by coronavirus outbreak in China: MEA

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in&nbsp;Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter."&nbsp;

The MEA spokesperson further said that any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-way-forward-is-via-peace-settlements-pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-talks-with-india-275984">bilateral issues between India and Pakistan</a>&nbsp;should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration.

"But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters".

"Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added.

On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again&nbsp;raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter.&nbsp;

"We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said.

This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue&nbsp;at an international forum.

Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-efforts-to-raise-kashmir-at-un-security-council-crumbled-once-again-274575">Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue</a> for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a &nbsp;Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident.

The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories.

Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter".

Indian on Thursday asserted its position on third party involvement in Kashmir matter after the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said that "there is no role for any third party in this matter". Addressing a weekly press briefing, Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position on the Kashmir issue and third-party mediation has been very clear and consistent, Let me reiterate that there is no role for any third party in this matter." The MEA spokesperson further said that any bilateral issues between India and Pakistan should be discussed between both countries under the provisions of Shimla agreement and the Lahore declaration. "But the onus is on Pakistan to create such conducive conditions - free from terror, hostility and violence," the foreign ministry spokesman asserted. Kumar further said, "India doesn't need Pakistan's advice on India's internal matters". "Pakistan's attempt to create alarmist situation in Kashmir has failed; global community understands its double standards," Kumar added. On Tuesday, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during a meeting with US President Donald Trump had once again raised the Kashmir matter after which the US offered to mediate between India and Pakistan to help resolve the matter. "We are talking about Kashmir and its relation to, what's going on between India and Pakistan that we can help, we certainly would be helping, and we have been watching that and have been following it very very closely," Trump had said. This is not the first time the Pakistan prime minister has raised the Kashmir issue at an international forum. Earlier this month, Pakistan along with its all-weather ally, China, raised the Kashmir issue for a third time at the United Nations security council. But, the UN maintained its stance that the issue should be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan. Relations between India and Pakistan have been tensed since last year after a Pakistan-based terrorist group attacked an Indian Army convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. Around 40 soldiers were killed in the incident. The relations between the two countries spiralled after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution to revoke Article 370 and a bill bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. Rattled by New Delhi's decisions, Islamabad "rejected" the move and said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Our position is consistent; no role for any third party mediation in Kashmir: India

Indian Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Raveesh Kumar addressed media on January 23. Raveesh Kumar talked on Pakistan and terrorism. He said, 'Pakistan plays victim card on terrorism'.

MEA: Pakistan plays victim card on terrorism

The Indian Mission in Nigeria on Sunday said that 20 seafarers who were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-shares-concerns-with-nigeria-over-kidnapping-of-20-indians-aboard-commercial-vessel-268596">kidnapped by pirates last month near the Nigerian coast </a>have been released but one of them lost his life due to adverse conditions in captivity.

"Indian Government and Mission gave the highest priority and worked with @NigeriaGov on the release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday. One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences. Mission assisting in speedy return," Indian High Commission in Nigeria said on Twitter.

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Indian Govt &amp; Mission gave highest priority and worked with <a href="https://twitter.com/NigeriaGov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NigeriaGov</a> on release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday. One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences.🙏Mission assiting in speedy return.
— India in Nigeria (@india_nigeria) <a href="https://twitter.com/india_nigeria/status/1218829081845882880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On December 16, the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday had said that the Indian government has shared its concerns with the Nigerian authorities over the abduction case.

"We are concerned by the kidnapping of 20 Indian crew members (as reported by the Shipping agency) from the vessel MT Duke in the high seas off the western coast of Africa on 15th December 2019. Our Mission in Abuja has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities, as also with the authorities of the neighbouring countries," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in a statement.

"The safety of hostages is paramount and we continue to engage with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders closely on the recent incidents," the spokesperson added.

The ministry has noted that this is the third such incident this year in the region, affecting Indian nationals.

In another incident, a Hong Kong-flagged vessel carrying 18 Indians on board was hijacked by pirates earlier in December while it was transiting through Nigeria.

The Indian Mission in Nigeria on Sunday said that 20 seafarers who were kidnapped by pirates last month near the Nigerian coast have been released but one of them lost his life due to adverse conditions in captivity.

The Indian Mission in Nigeria on Sunday said that 20 seafarers who were kidnapped by pirates last month near the Nigerian coast have been released but one of them lost his life due to adverse conditions in captivity. "Indian Government and Mission gave the highest priority and worked with @NigeriaGov on the release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday. One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences. Mission assisting in speedy return," Indian High Commission in Nigeria said on Twitter. Indian Govt & Mission gave highest priority and worked with @NigeriaGov on release of 20 Indian seafarers kidnapped on 15 Dec from MV Duke. 19 were released yesterday. One sadly died in captivity in adverse conditions. Our deepest condolences.🙏Mission assiting in speedy return. — India in Nigeria (@india_nigeria) January 19, 2020 × On December 16, the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday had said that the Indian government has shared its concerns with the Nigerian authorities over the abduction case. "We are concerned by the kidnapping of 20 Indian crew members (as reported by the Shipping agency) from the vessel MT Duke in the high seas off the western coast of Africa on 15th December 2019. Our Mission in Abuja has taken up the matter with the Nigerian authorities, as also with the authorities of the neighbouring countries," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said in a statement. "The safety of hostages is paramount and we continue to engage with Nigerian authorities and other stakeholders closely on the recent incidents," the spokesperson added. The ministry has noted that this is the third such incident this year in the region, affecting Indian nationals. In another incident, a Hong Kong-flagged vessel carrying 18 Indians on board was hijacked by pirates earlier in December while it was transiting through Nigeria.

20 Indians kidnapped last month from Nigeria coast released, 1 dead in captivity

The fifth edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-secretary-general-vladimir-norov-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-to-attend-raisina-dialogue-2020-273757">Raisina Dialogue</a> 2020, India's annual global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics is set to kick-off here Tuesday with the participation of more than 100 countries.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-secretary-general-vladimir-norov-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-to-attend-raisina-dialogue-2020-273757">Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Secretary General Vladimir Norov arrives in India to attend Raisina Dialogue</a>

The flagship conference jointly organised by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/envoys-visit-is-to-see-first-hand-efforts-to-normalise-the-situation-in-kashmir-mea-spokesperson-raveesh-kumar-273208">Ministry of External Affairs</a> and the Observer Research Foundation has been India's contribution to global efforts to discover solutions, identify opportunities and provide stability to a century that has witnessed an eventful two decades.

The three-day conclave will bring together 700 international participants, of which 40 percent of the speakers will be women, emphasising India's commitment to gender equality.

Along with the participation of 12 foreign ministers, including the foreign ministers of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-russias-putin-discuss-regional-global-issues-in-telephonic-conversation-274090">Russia</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hints-at-de-escalating-tensions-with-us-273856">Iran</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-prime-ministers-approval-rating-singed-by-bushfires-273895">Australia</a>, Maldives, South Africa, Estonia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Latvia, Uzbekistan and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-iran-nuclear-deal-may-collapse-273585">European Union</a>, the National Security Adviser (NSA) of Afghanistan, the Deputy NSA of the United States and several other ministers of state will also present their ideas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-foreign-ministry-rebuffs-misleading-reports-regarding-cancellation-of-ministers-participation-in-raisina-dialogue-273719">Also read: Bangladesh Foreign Ministry rebuffs misleading reports regarding cancellation of Minister's participation in Raisina Dialogue</a>

External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-meets-sri-lankan-fm-gunawardena-273187">S Jaishankar</a> will share his insights on India's growing&nbsp;role in the world in a session on January 15.

This year's Dialogue titled 'Navigating the Alpha Century' is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving heads of states, cabinet ministers and local government officials as well as major private sector executives, members of the media and academics.

The inaugural session of the mega-event today will be addressed by Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-caa-is-not-to-revoke-anyones-citizenship-but-to-give-273711">Narendra Modi</a> where other visiting leaders will share their views on important challenges facing the world related to globalisation, 2030 agenda, role of technology in the modern world, climate change and counter-terrorism.

Over the course of two days thereafter (on January15-16), intensive deliberations will take place over 80 sessions around 5 thematic pillars - the nationalist impulses challenging global institutions and collective action, the debate on the global trading architecture, the role of technologies in determining political, economic and military power, the global development agenda and the state-individual relationship in the age of digital communities and cyberspace, according to a statement by the MEA.

In the short space of five years, the Raisina Dialogue has acquired an enviable global profile uniting the best strategic thinkers of the world.

The synergies and collaborations in the Raisina Dialogue represent India's deliberative ethos, as well as its international credibility and convening power.

The Raisina Dialogue has grown along with India's diplomatic profile and will set the tone for its intensive diplomatic engagement this year. 
The inaugural address was to be delivered by Australian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-pm-to-visit-india-in-january-calls-india-a-natural-partner-253636">Scott Morrison</a> but he called off his visit in view of the bushfire crisis in his country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-pm-to-visit-india-in-january-calls-india-a-natural-partner-253636">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison defers trip to India, Japan as bushfire crisis looms</a>

The fifth edition of the Raisina Dialogue 2020, India's annual global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics is set to kick-off here Tuesday with the participation of more than 100 countries.

The fifth edition of the Raisina Dialogue 2020, India's annual global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics is set to kick-off here Tuesday with the participation of more than 100 countries. Also read: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Secretary General Vladimir Norov arrives in India to attend Raisina Dialogue The flagship conference jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation has been India's contribution to global efforts to discover solutions, identify opportunities and provide stability to a century that has witnessed an eventful two decades. The three-day conclave will bring together 700 international participants, of which 40 percent of the speakers will be women, emphasising India's commitment to gender equality. Along with the participation of 12 foreign ministers, including the foreign ministers of Russia, Iran, Australia, Maldives, South Africa, Estonia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Latvia, Uzbekistan and the European Union, the National Security Adviser (NSA) of Afghanistan, the Deputy NSA of the United States and several other ministers of state will also present their ideas. Also read: Bangladesh Foreign Ministry rebuffs misleading reports regarding cancellation of Minister's participation in Raisina Dialogue External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will share his insights on India's growing role in the world in a session on January 15. This year's Dialogue titled 'Navigating the Alpha Century' is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussion, involving heads of states, cabinet ministers and local government officials as well as major private sector executives, members of the media and academics. The inaugural session of the mega-event today will be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi where other visiting leaders will share their views on important challenges facing the world related to globalisation, 2030 agenda, role of technology in the modern world, climate change and counter-terrorism. Over the course of two days thereafter (on January15-16), intensive deliberations will take place over 80 sessions around 5 thematic pillars - the nationalist impulses challenging global institutions and collective action, the debate on the global trading architecture, the role of technologies in determining political, economic and military power, the global development agenda and the state-individual relationship in the age of digital communities and cyberspace, according to a statement by the MEA. In the short space of five years, the Raisina Dialogue has acquired an enviable global profile uniting the best strategic thinkers of the world. The synergies and collaborations in the Raisina Dialogue represent India's deliberative ethos, as well as its international credibility and convening power. The Raisina Dialogue has grown along with India's diplomatic profile and will set the tone for its intensive diplomatic engagement this year. The inaugural address was to be delivered by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison but he called off his visit in view of the bushfire crisis in his country. Also read: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison defers trip to India, Japan as bushfire crisis looms

Fifth edition of Raisina Dialogue focusing on geopolitics, geo-economics begins today

Punjab Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nankana-sahib-vandalism-rescue-sikhs-stranded-at-gurdwara-punjab-cm-appeals-to-imran-khan-271985">Captain Amarinder Singh</a> on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sikh-youth-killed-by-unidentified-person-in-peshawar-272286">Peshawar</a> and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

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Shocked &amp; anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>, coming on heels of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NankanaSahibAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NankanaSahibAttack</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> govt must ensure thorough investigation &amp; strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.<a href="https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2">https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1213788169075707904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. 
 
Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. 
 
The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. 
 
Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. 
 
A resident of Shangla district of Khyber <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-import-polio-markers-from-india-270229">Pakhtunkhwa</a> province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. 
 
Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators.

Watch:&nbsp;India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan

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"India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-slammed-by-syed-akbaruddin-for-sharing-a-seven-years-old-fake-video-272024">Ministry of External Affairs</a> (MEA) said in a statement. 
 
"India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. 
 
The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. 
 
An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. 
 
India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators. Shocked & anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure thorough investigation & strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2 — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) January 5, 2020 × "Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. A resident of Shangla district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators. Watch: India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan × "India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab CM urges Imran Khan to ensure 'strict punishment' to culprits who killed Sikh youth

India on Friday strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at <a href="Sri Lanka: Four killed including pilots after military plane crashes">Nankana Sahib Gurdwara</a> and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community.

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India strongly condemns vandalism at the holy Nankana Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan and calls upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety, security and well being of the Sikh community. <a href="https://t.co/Nx1317xQ1T">https://t.co/Nx1317xQ1T</a> <a href="https://t.co/dFykWJa2xP">pic.twitter.com/dFykWJa2xP</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1213120544591056898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern at vandalism carried out at the revered gurdwara on Friday.

It said that members of the minority Sikh community have been subjected to acts of violence in the holy city of Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Devji.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NankanaSahib?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NankanaSahib</a>, the birth place of Shri Guru Nanik Dev ji, is under attack by angry Muslim mob. They are demanding to change the name of town to Ghulam.e.Mustafa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Minorities?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Minorities</a>, be you are a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hindu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hindu</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Christian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Christian</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sikh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sikh</a> can never claim we are safe and secure here in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>. <a href="https://t.co/m9JeNCqy1W">pic.twitter.com/m9JeNCqy1W</a>
— Kapil Dev (@KDSindhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDSindhi/status/1213121677787324416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Terming the actions reprehensible, MEA said these followed actions followed the forcible abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur, the Sikh girl who was kidnapped from her home in the city of Nankana Sahib in August last year.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NankanaSahib?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NankanaSahib</a> ; just now ; a Mob still surrounded the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GurdwaraNankanaSahib?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GurdwaraNankanaSahib</a> gate . <a href="https://t.co/H0UaSyYcBG">pic.twitter.com/H0UaSyYcBG</a>
— Ravinder Singh Robin ਰਵਿੰਦਰ ਸਿੰਘ راویندرسنگھ روبن (@rsrobin1) <a href="https://twitter.com/rsrobin1/status/1213091318060109826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The MEA said that Pakistan "is enjoined to take all measures to protect and preserve the sanctity of the holy Nankana Sahib Gurudwara and its surroundings".

India also asked Pakistan to take strong action against the miscreants who indulged in the desecration of the Gurudwara and attacked members of the minority Sikh community.

"We are concerned at the vandalism carried out at the revered Nankana Sahib Gurdwara today. Members of the minority Sikh community have been subjected to acts of violence in the holy city of Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji. These reprehensible actions followed the forcible abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur, the Sikh girl who was kidnapped from her home in the city of Nankana Sahib in August last year," the statement said.

"India strongly condemns these wanton acts of destruction and desecration of the holy place. We call upon the Government of Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. Strong action must be taken against the miscreants who indulged in desecration of the holy Gurudwara and attacked members of the minority Sikh community," it added.

An angry group of local residents pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of gurdwara's pathi.

India on Friday strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community.

India on Friday strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. India strongly condemns vandalism at the holy Nankana Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan and calls upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety, security and well being of the Sikh community. https://t.co/Nx1317xQ1T pic.twitter.com/dFykWJa2xP — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 3, 2020 × In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern at vandalism carried out at the revered gurdwara on Friday. It said that members of the minority Sikh community have been subjected to acts of violence in the holy city of Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Devji. #NankanaSahib, the birth place of Shri Guru Nanik Dev ji, is under attack by angry Muslim mob. They are demanding to change the name of town to Ghulam.e.Mustafa.#Minorities, be you are a #Hindu, #Christian or #Sikh can never claim we are safe and secure here in #Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/m9JeNCqy1W — Kapil Dev (@KDSindhi) January 3, 2020 × Terming the actions reprehensible, MEA said these followed actions followed the forcible abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur, the Sikh girl who was kidnapped from her home in the city of Nankana Sahib in August last year. #NankanaSahib ; just now ; a Mob still surrounded the #GurdwaraNankanaSahib gate . pic.twitter.com/H0UaSyYcBG — Ravinder Singh Robin ਰਵਿੰਦਰ ਸਿੰਘ راویندرسنگھ روبن (@rsrobin1) January 3, 2020 × The MEA said that Pakistan "is enjoined to take all measures to protect and preserve the sanctity of the holy Nankana Sahib Gurudwara and its surroundings". India also asked Pakistan to take strong action against the miscreants who indulged in the desecration of the Gurudwara and attacked members of the minority Sikh community. "We are concerned at the vandalism carried out at the revered Nankana Sahib Gurdwara today. Members of the minority Sikh community have been subjected to acts of violence in the holy city of Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji. These reprehensible actions followed the forcible abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur, the Sikh girl who was kidnapped from her home in the city of Nankana Sahib in August last year," the statement said. "India strongly condemns these wanton acts of destruction and desecration of the holy place. We call upon the Government of Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. Strong action must be taken against the miscreants who indulged in desecration of the holy Gurudwara and attacked members of the minority Sikh community," it added. An angry group of local residents pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of gurdwara's pathi.

Stone pelting at Nankana Sahib gurdwara: India calls it ‘wanton acts of destruction’

India has reached out to all countries across the globe and written to its missions to share its perspective on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/69-people-who-were-held-during-anti-caa-protests-in-varanasi-get-bail-271479">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA) and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prohibitory-orders-to-prevail-in-sambhal-till-january-31-271476">National Register of Citizens</a> (NRC), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday, refuting reports that some embassies were not engaged on the matter.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Foreign Ministry briefs media

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"We did reach out to countries across all geographical regions. We did write to our missions to share our perspective on CAA and NRC with the host government," MEA spokesperson <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-call-on-pakistan-to-arrest-and-prosecute-perpetrators-of-cross-border-terror-attacks-269230">Raveesh Kumar</a> told reporters at a weekly briefing when asked on reports that some countries were not apprised on the matter. 
 
"Yes, there were such reports. But the reports are factually incorrect," the spokesperson added. 
 
Kumar said that the engagement undergoes a certain internal process. 
 
"Firstly, this matter is entirely internal to India so we ask them (Indian missions abroad) to convey the government there that the act provides expedited consideration for Indian citizenship to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-india-bangladesh-ties-says-both-working-shoulder-to-shoulder-269579">persecuted minorities</a> already in India from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh," he said. 
 
"We also convey to them that it does not affect other communities from seeking citizenship. It does not seek to strip anybody of Indian citizenship, practising any faith. Neither do they alter the basic structures of the Constitution," the spokesperson continued. 
 
These are the points, Kumar said, are conveyed to the consulate generals and ambassadors settled abroad and are asked to reach out not only to the governments but also to the media there as well. 
 
"After we realised that a lot of explaining was involved, we adopted a two-pronged setting for the process," he further said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mother-of-toddler-released-after-being-jailed-for-14-days-for-protesting-against-caa-271588">Protests</a> have erupted in several parts of the country over the CAA which grants citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Parsi, Buddhist, and Christian refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

India has reached out to all countries across the globe and written to its missions to share its perspective on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday, refuting reports that some embassies were not engaged on the matter.

India has reached out to all countries across the globe and written to its missions to share its perspective on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday, refuting reports that some embassies were not engaged on the matter. Watch: Indian Foreign Ministry briefs media × "We did reach out to countries across all geographical regions. We did write to our missions to share our perspective on CAA and NRC with the host government," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters at a weekly briefing when asked on reports that some countries were not apprised on the matter. "Yes, there were such reports. But the reports are factually incorrect," the spokesperson added. Kumar said that the engagement undergoes a certain internal process. "Firstly, this matter is entirely internal to India so we ask them (Indian missions abroad) to convey the government there that the act provides expedited consideration for Indian citizenship to persecuted minorities already in India from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh," he said. "We also convey to them that it does not affect other communities from seeking citizenship. It does not seek to strip anybody of Indian citizenship, practising any faith. Neither do they alter the basic structures of the Constitution," the spokesperson continued. These are the points, Kumar said, are conveyed to the consulate generals and ambassadors settled abroad and are asked to reach out not only to the governments but also to the media there as well. "After we realised that a lot of explaining was involved, we adopted a two-pronged setting for the process," he further said. Protests have erupted in several parts of the country over the CAA which grants citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Parsi, Buddhist, and Christian refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

MEA: All countries, Indian missions across the globe informed about India's perspective on CAA, NRC

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs addressed the Media live. Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs has explained India's position on Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He also informed that the Australian Prime Minister is expected to visit India in June 2020. #WION #India #IndiaNews #RaveeshKumar

Indian Foreign Ministry briefs media

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen.&nbsp;

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read.

New Delhi has also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

According to reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India.

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen. "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read. New Delhi has also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts". According to reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".

Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA 

Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday briefed the media about the 2+2 ministerial meeting in the United States and described it as "very productive and positive".

Kumar said that the meeting saw the Indian Defence and External Affairs ministers meet with their American counterparts wherein the diplomats resolved to "work together to realise the full potential of India-US strategic global partnership".

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Raveesh Kumar, MEA on 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in the US: The meeting was very productive, very positive. Before the meeting started, the Defence Minister &amp; External Affairs Minister had a bilateral meeting with their counterparts. They also called on US President Donald Trump. <a href="https://t.co/HJks1iPx7e">pic.twitter.com/HJks1iPx7e</a>
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"The meeting was very productive, very positive. Before the meeting started, the Defence Minister and the External Affairs Minister had a bilateral meeting with their counterparts. They also called on US President Donald Trump," Kumar told reporters in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Kumar said that the Citizenship Amendment Act, being an internal matter of India, was not discussed during the 2+2 meeting.&nbsp;

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Raveesh Kumar, MEA on 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in the US: The 4 Ministers resolved that they will work together to realise the full potential of India-US strategic global partnership. <a href="https://t.co/imHdssP1Y7">https://t.co/imHdssP1Y7</a>
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"I'm not aware of the specifics of what was discussed in EAM's meeting with the Senate Committee on foreign relations. But our perspective on the Act Citizenship Amendment Act has been shared with the US interlocutors, including the US Congress," he added.&nbsp;

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Raveesh Kumar, MEA on if Citizenship Amendment Bill issue was raised by US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, during 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in Washington DC: This issue, being an internal matter of India, was not discussed in the 2+2 meeting. <a href="https://t.co/Do3wPLub4s">pic.twitter.com/Do3wPLub4s</a>
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"We've highlighted the points which we have articulated in Parliament &amp; subsequently which has been repeated by the PM &amp; Home Minister. I can only say that in the context of his meeting with the members of the US Congress, EAM shared our perspectives on this issue," Kumar stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday briefed the media about the 2+2 ministerial meeting in the United States and described it as "very productive and positive".

Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday briefed the media about the 2+2 ministerial meeting in the United States and described it as "very productive and positive". Kumar said that the meeting saw the Indian Defence and External Affairs ministers meet with their American counterparts wherein the diplomats resolved to "work together to realise the full potential of India-US strategic global partnership". Raveesh Kumar, MEA on 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in the US: The meeting was very productive, very positive. Before the meeting started, the Defence Minister & External Affairs Minister had a bilateral meeting with their counterparts. They also called on US President Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/HJks1iPx7e — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2019 × "The meeting was very productive, very positive. Before the meeting started, the Defence Minister and the External Affairs Minister had a bilateral meeting with their counterparts. They also called on US President Donald Trump," Kumar told reporters in New Delhi. Kumar said that the Citizenship Amendment Act, being an internal matter of India, was not discussed during the 2+2 meeting. Raveesh Kumar, MEA on 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in the US: The 4 Ministers resolved that they will work together to realise the full potential of India-US strategic global partnership. https://t.co/imHdssP1Y7 — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2019 × "I'm not aware of the specifics of what was discussed in EAM's meeting with the Senate Committee on foreign relations. But our perspective on the Act Citizenship Amendment Act has been shared with the US interlocutors, including the US Congress," he added. Raveesh Kumar, MEA on if Citizenship Amendment Bill issue was raised by US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, during 2+2 Ministerial meeting, in Washington DC: This issue, being an internal matter of India, was not discussed in the 2+2 meeting. pic.twitter.com/Do3wPLub4s — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2019 × "We've highlighted the points which we have articulated in Parliament & subsequently which has been repeated by the PM & Home Minister. I can only say that in the context of his meeting with the members of the US Congress, EAM shared our perspectives on this issue," Kumar stated. (With inputs from ANI)

India, US resolve to work together to realise full potential of strategic global partnership: MEA on 2+2 meeting 

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home".&nbsp;

"I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

"Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added.

The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit&nbsp;triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament.

Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong.

"Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference.

Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI.

He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker.&nbsp;

The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit.

"I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen cancelled his scheduled visit to India due to "increasing demand at home". "I had to cancel my trip to New Delhi as I have to participate in the Buddijibi Debosh and Bijoy Debosh and more so as our State Minister is out of the country in Madrid and our Foreign Secretary is in The Hague," said Momen. "Given increasing demand at home, I decided to cancel his trip," Bangladesh foreign minister added. The sudden reports of Momen cancelling his visit triggered speculations that he cancelled due to the passage of the citizenship amendment bill in the Indian parliament. Later in the day, Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry, clarified that Momen has given an explanation for cancelling his India trip and asserted that the relationship between both countries is strong. "Our relationship is strong. As leaders of both countries (India-Bangladesh) have said, this is the golden age of our relations," Kumar said while addressing a press conference. Momen was scheduled to arrive in Delhi today for his three-day visit to attend the sixth edition of the Indian Ocean Dialogue and the combined session of the Delhi Dialogue XI. He was also supposed to hold talks on bilateral issues with external affairs minister S Jaishanker. The foreign minister also said that he is looking forward to his January visit. "I am looking forward to attending the next meeting in January. I am sending our DG to attend the event," he added.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister cancels India visit due to 'increasing demand at home'

The Indian government said on Friday they are focussing&nbsp;on&nbsp;repatriating&nbsp;bodies of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/18-indians-among-23-dead-in-lpg-tanker-blast-in-sudan-266258">Indian workers </a>who lost their lives in a fire tragedy in Sudan.

"We are in contact with the families of six Indians who have lost their lives in Sudan. Our efforts will also be focused on how to repatriate bodies of those died," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokeperson Raveesh Kumar said.&nbsp;

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Raveesh Kumar: We are in contact with the families of 6 Indian who have lost their lives in Sudan. Our efforts will also be focused how to repatriate bodies of those who have lost their lives.
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Kumar also said that 58 Indian workers were working in the factory. Six Indian workers were killed in the incident. Eight Indians are getting treated in the hospital, 11 are unidentified and 33 are safe, Kumar added.&nbsp;

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Raveesh Kumar, MEA: 58 Indian workers were working at the factory in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sudan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sudan</a>. 6 Indian workers were killed in the incident. 8 Indians are in hospital and 11 people are unidentified. 33 Indians are safe. <a href="https://t.co/Kx1X1VPmZQ">pic.twitter.com/Kx1X1VPmZQ</a>
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On Tuesday, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-23-killed-over-130-injured-as-massive-fire-engulfs-factory-in-sudan-266029">ceramic factory </a>was enguled in massive fire in Sudanese capital Khartoum, when an oil tanker exploded while unloading, killing 23 workers. On Wednesday, the Indian embassy claimed that 18 Indians are killed in the incident. However, they added that the figures are not confirmed.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his anguish over the fire accident. He also said that the Indian embassy in Sudan is providing all sorts of help to the ones affected in the incident.&nbsp;

"Anguished by the blast in a ceramic factory in Sudan, where some Indian workers have lost their lives and some are injured. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured," PM Modi tweeted.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in a tweet, also expressed his grief over the tragedy on Wednesday, adding that the Indian embassy representative has rushed to the spot and a 24-hour hotline has been set by the embassy of India Khartoum.&nbsp;

On the day of the blast, the Sudanese administration said that the preliminary investigation suggests that the necessary fire safety equipment were missing from the factory and the inflammable factory materials were improperly stored that aggravated the fire.

&nbsp;

The Indian government said on Friday they are focussing on repatriating bodies of the Indian workers who lost their lives in a fire tragedy in Sudan. "We are in contact with the families of six Indians who have lost their lives in Sudan.

The Indian government said on Friday they are focussing on repatriating bodies of the Indian workers who lost their lives in a fire tragedy in Sudan. "We are in contact with the families of six Indians who have lost their lives in Sudan. Our efforts will also be focused on how to repatriate bodies of those died," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokeperson Raveesh Kumar said. Raveesh Kumar: We are in contact with the families of 6 Indian who have lost their lives in Sudan. Our efforts will also be focused how to repatriate bodies of those who have lost their lives. — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2019 × Kumar also said that 58 Indian workers were working in the factory. Six Indian workers were killed in the incident. Eight Indians are getting treated in the hospital, 11 are unidentified and 33 are safe, Kumar added. Raveesh Kumar, MEA: 58 Indian workers were working at the factory in #Sudan. 6 Indian workers were killed in the incident. 8 Indians are in hospital and 11 people are unidentified. 33 Indians are safe. pic.twitter.com/Kx1X1VPmZQ — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2019 × On Tuesday, a ceramic factory was enguled in massive fire in Sudanese capital Khartoum, when an oil tanker exploded while unloading, killing 23 workers. On Wednesday, the Indian embassy claimed that 18 Indians are killed in the incident. However, they added that the figures are not confirmed. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his anguish over the fire accident. He also said that the Indian embassy in Sudan is providing all sorts of help to the ones affected in the incident. "Anguished by the blast in a ceramic factory in Sudan, where some Indian workers have lost their lives and some are injured. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured," PM Modi tweeted. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in a tweet, also expressed his grief over the tragedy on Wednesday, adding that the Indian embassy representative has rushed to the spot and a 24-hour hotline has been set by the embassy of India Khartoum. On the day of the blast, the Sudanese administration said that the preliminary investigation suggests that the necessary fire safety equipment were missing from the factory and the inflammable factory materials were improperly stored that aggravated the fire.

Efforts underway to repatriate bodies of deceased in Sudan fire accident

Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had a press conference with media, 'India has demanded the consular access for Indian nationals detained by Pakistan.'

MEA: India demanded the consular access for two Indians detained by Pak

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

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

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

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

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Raveesh Kumar shared some details of EU MPs visit to J&K.

Raveesh Kumar speaks on EU MPs visit to J&K

India on Thursday termed Pakistan's move to take diplomats to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), where the Indian Army destroyed terror camps as "drama" and "naked propaganda" and said it should instead show any credible action against terrorism. 
 
"This is a drama. Pakistan has been doing this kind of naked propaganda. They had taken some diplomats (to PoK). We know that whenever they take diplomats, they try to show a completely different thing," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a press briefing here. 
 
Referring to Pakistan's reluctance to act against terror organisations, Kumar said it should show diplomats how it destroys terror camps and take "credible, irreversible" action against terrorism. 
 
"If Pakistan is serious, it should take diplomats to places to show how it is taking credible, irreversible and verifiable action against terrorism," Kumar said. 
He said Pakistan has been using terror launch pads to send terrorists to India. 
 
"This is in public knowledge that they have launch pads along LoC in PoK that are used to infiltrate terrorists into India," he added. 
 
Indian Army had used artillery guns to target camps in PoK after two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in the unprovoked ceasefire violation in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month.

India on Thursday termed Pakistan's move to take diplomats to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), where the Indian Army destroyed terror camps as "drama" and "naked propaganda" and said it should instead show any credible action against terrorism.

India on Thursday termed Pakistan's move to take diplomats to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK), where the Indian Army destroyed terror camps as "drama" and "naked propaganda" and said it should instead show any credible action against terrorism. "This is a drama. Pakistan has been doing this kind of naked propaganda. They had taken some diplomats (to PoK). We know that whenever they take diplomats, they try to show a completely different thing," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said at a press briefing here. Referring to Pakistan's reluctance to act against terror organisations, Kumar said it should show diplomats how it destroys terror camps and take "credible, irreversible" action against terrorism. "If Pakistan is serious, it should take diplomats to places to show how it is taking credible, irreversible and verifiable action against terrorism," Kumar said. He said Pakistan has been using terror launch pads to send terrorists to India. "This is in public knowledge that they have launch pads along LoC in PoK that are used to infiltrate terrorists into India," he added. Indian Army had used artillery guns to target camps in PoK after two Indian soldiers and a civilian were killed in the unprovoked ceasefire violation in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month.

Pakistan's move to take diplomats to PoK 'drama', says Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson

The Centre on Wednesday said that it has advised Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal not to attend the C-40 World Mayors'&nbsp;Summit in Denmark in view that the participation of the AAP supremo as a speaker at the event's panel discussion was not commensurate with the level of participation from other countries.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that its decision to grant political clearance is based upon multiple inputs and takes into account the nature of the event, the level of participation by other countries and the type of invitation extended, to name a few.

"A considered decision on political clearance by the MEA is based on multiple inputs and takes into account the nature of the event, the level of participation by other countries, type of invitation extended, etc. In the instant case, the participation of Chief Minister of Delhi as a speaker at a panel discussion was not commensurate with the level of participation from other countries," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a statement.

"The Chief Minister of one of the largest and populous cities in the world, which also is the capital of India, was therefore advised not to attend the event," Kumar added.

The MEA's statement came in response to media queries regarding political clearance for Kejriwal to visit Copenhagen for the summit, which was later denied.

Kejriwal was to attend the four-day C-40 climate summit beginning from October 9. He was to speak on his government's work towards lowering pollution, including the car rationing scheme.

Earlier in the day, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar also clarified that the permission was denied to Kejriwal for attending the climate meet in Denmark as it is a mayor-level conference.

Kolkata Mayor and West Bengal Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim is slated to attend the four-day programme.

"The West Bengal minister is going (to attend the climate meet in Denmark). This is a mayor-level conference," Javadekar had told reporters at a cabinet briefing.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had accused the BJP-led Centre of showing hostility and not giving political clearance to Kejriwal and others for attending the conference.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Centre on Wednesday said that it has advised Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal not to attend the C-40 World Mayors' Summit in Denmark in view that the participation of the AAP supremo as a speaker at the event's panel discussion was not commensurate with the level of participation from other countries.

The Centre on Wednesday said that it has advised Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal not to attend the C-40 World Mayors' Summit in Denmark in view that the participation of the AAP supremo as a speaker at the event's panel discussion was not commensurate with the level of participation from other countries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that its decision to grant political clearance is based upon multiple inputs and takes into account the nature of the event, the level of participation by other countries and the type of invitation extended, to name a few. "A considered decision on political clearance by the MEA is based on multiple inputs and takes into account the nature of the event, the level of participation by other countries, type of invitation extended, etc. In the instant case, the participation of Chief Minister of Delhi as a speaker at a panel discussion was not commensurate with the level of participation from other countries," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a statement. "The Chief Minister of one of the largest and populous cities in the world, which also is the capital of India, was therefore advised not to attend the event," Kumar added. The MEA's statement came in response to media queries regarding political clearance for Kejriwal to visit Copenhagen for the summit, which was later denied. Kejriwal was to attend the four-day C-40 climate summit beginning from October 9. He was to speak on his government's work towards lowering pollution, including the car rationing scheme. Earlier in the day, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar also clarified that the permission was denied to Kejriwal for attending the climate meet in Denmark as it is a mayor-level conference. Kolkata Mayor and West Bengal Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim is slated to attend the four-day programme. "The West Bengal minister is going (to attend the climate meet in Denmark). This is a mayor-level conference," Javadekar had told reporters at a cabinet briefing. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had accused the BJP-led Centre of showing hostility and not giving political clearance to Kejriwal and others for attending the conference.

Kejriwal's participation in C-40 climate meet 'not commensurate' with level of participation from other countries: MEA

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-is-not-a-negative-sentiment-says-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-253719">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only. 
 
Delivering a keynote address on the occasion of the completion of 55 years of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, Jaishankar said: "India seeks to be the leader in Climate Change Action. India's initiative of the International Solar Alliance led by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a testimony to the fact that we are committed to a clean and sustainable future for the children of tomorrow. We are fast moving towards the use of clean technologies and e-vehicles for the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and emissions." 
 
Jaishankar noted that the country has the fastest-growing solar energy programme in the world, and has set a target of production of 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy as part of the Solar Alliance Initiative and its integration in the main power grid, which are "well on its way to be achieved." 
 
He said that the significance of these achievements lies in the fact that India does not limit its efforts towards climate change action to its soil. 
 
"Much of our development assistance, particularly capacity building through ITEC is geared around training and projects in solar technologies and other renewables in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific island countries." 
 
The Minister noted that&nbsp;developmental cooperation has always played a central role in India's foreign policy and its relations with partner countries are based on the principles of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty and freedom of action and choice. 
 
"It is not based on competition, conditionalities or prescriptions. It stems from the spirit of solidarity to enhance mutual learning for shared and sustainable growth. These are also the cornerstones in our capacity building initiatives which span from Latin American countries to Pacific Island countries, as we traverse similar paths of development," he said. 
 
Recounting the challenges of population resource imbalances, rising inequities, and climate change, among others faced by the developing countries today, the minister said that India is committed to facing these challenges by expanding its "partnership choices in foreign cooperation and (by) resolving to collaborate more closely to press ahead with our SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)." 
 
"Thus, in its own modest way, India has also tried to step-up the material resources and enabling mechanisms, especially in the past one decade in sharing of our development experience with the rest of the world," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-s-jaishankar-meets-us-national-security-advisor-robert-obrien-253610">Some of the steps taken by the MEA</a> in this regard include the setting up of the Development Partnership Administration Division as a dedicated agency within MEA, enhancement of budget allocations for partner countries, increase in the size of the Foreign Service, including the hiring of subject matter experts, increasing number of scholarships. 
 
"Moreover, in all the recent development co-operation initiatives, capacity building has been a central theme. Several announcements for enhancement of ITEC training slots have been made during the recent bilateral visits and also at the various multilateral engagements such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), IAFS-III, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), FIPIC- to name a few," he said. 
 
He said that such capacity-building efforts by India are in line with the country's neighbourhood first policy. "This is of course not to undermine our efforts of co-operation with our other regional partners which are equally valuable and unique," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-meets-pompeo-in-washington-253141">Jaishankar said that India is acutely aware</a> of the role of affordable and quality healthcare, professional skills and higher education as determinants of human development. 
 
The minister said he is "delighted to have launched" the e-Vidya Bharti and e-Arogya Bharti, teleeducation and telemedicine project for Africa, "which is one of the largest projects being executed by the Ministry. 
 
"This project will enable African students to access premier Indian education through the comforts of their homes and offer Indian medical expertise to African doctors and patients alike," added Jaishankar

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only.

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only. Delivering a keynote address on the occasion of the completion of 55 years of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, Jaishankar said: "India seeks to be the leader in Climate Change Action. India's initiative of the International Solar Alliance led by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a testimony to the fact that we are committed to a clean and sustainable future for the children of tomorrow. We are fast moving towards the use of clean technologies and e-vehicles for the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and emissions." Jaishankar noted that the country has the fastest-growing solar energy programme in the world, and has set a target of production of 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy as part of the Solar Alliance Initiative and its integration in the main power grid, which are "well on its way to be achieved." He said that the significance of these achievements lies in the fact that India does not limit its efforts towards climate change action to its soil. "Much of our development assistance, particularly capacity building through ITEC is geared around training and projects in solar technologies and other renewables in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific island countries." The Minister noted that developmental cooperation has always played a central role in India's foreign policy and its relations with partner countries are based on the principles of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty and freedom of action and choice. "It is not based on competition, conditionalities or prescriptions. It stems from the spirit of solidarity to enhance mutual learning for shared and sustainable growth. These are also the cornerstones in our capacity building initiatives which span from Latin American countries to Pacific Island countries, as we traverse similar paths of development," he said. Recounting the challenges of population resource imbalances, rising inequities, and climate change, among others faced by the developing countries today, the minister said that India is committed to facing these challenges by expanding its "partnership choices in foreign cooperation and (by) resolving to collaborate more closely to press ahead with our SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)." "Thus, in its own modest way, India has also tried to step-up the material resources and enabling mechanisms, especially in the past one decade in sharing of our development experience with the rest of the world," he said. Some of the steps taken by the MEA in this regard include the setting up of the Development Partnership Administration Division as a dedicated agency within MEA, enhancement of budget allocations for partner countries, increase in the size of the Foreign Service, including the hiring of subject matter experts, increasing number of scholarships. "Moreover, in all the recent development co-operation initiatives, capacity building has been a central theme. Several announcements for enhancement of ITEC training slots have been made during the recent bilateral visits and also at the various multilateral engagements such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), IAFS-III, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), FIPIC- to name a few," he said. He said that such capacity-building efforts by India are in line with the country's neighbourhood first policy. "This is of course not to undermine our efforts of co-operation with our other regional partners which are equally valuable and unique," he said. Jaishankar said that India is acutely aware of the role of affordable and quality healthcare, professional skills and higher education as determinants of human development. The minister said he is "delighted to have launched" the e-Vidya Bharti and e-Arogya Bharti, teleeducation and telemedicine project for Africa, "which is one of the largest projects being executed by the Ministry. "This project will enable African students to access premier Indian education through the comforts of their homes and offer Indian medical expertise to African doctors and patients alike," added Jaishankar

India seeks to be leader in climate change action, says Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar

Indian Ministry of External Affairs briefs media. Watch this video to know more.

Indian Ministry of External Affairs briefs media

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during&nbsp;which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/last-100-days-were-defined-by-change-pm-modi-sounds-poll-bugle-in-haryana-248422">Narendra Modi government</a>.&nbsp;

Talking about India-US relations, Jaishankar said that it has&nbsp;"come a long way,"&nbsp;and assured that it is in "very good health."&nbsp;

"India-US relations have come a long way, I assure you that relations are in very good health. As the relationship grows there will be issues. We've been talking to the US, my expectation is that the sharper edges will be addressed in the not too distant future."

On India's&nbsp;relations with its neighbouring countries, Jaishankar said,&nbsp;"We hope to build a better, stronger neighbourhood but recognising that we have a unique challenge from one neighbour (Pakistan) until the issue of cross border terrorism is successfully addressed."

"There is a strong link between domestic and foreign policy, " Jaishankar said, adding, "The co-relation between our national policy goals and foreign policy goals has become stronger."

"I think today if you look at the big debates at multilateral forums - G20, BRICS, you will see that the Indian voice, Indian views are today heard much more clearly," the foreign minister added.

Referring to PM Modi's&nbsp;upcoming US visit, Jaishankar said, "The diaspora is, of course, the forte and in many ways somewhat unique aspect of our foreign policy and that is underlined by what is going to be coming up very soon in the United States which is a big diaspora event in partnership with our Indian-American community."

PM Modi will address the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on September 22, which will see the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian Americans.

The event will also be attended by US President Donald Trump.

The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA.

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government.

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government. Talking about India-US relations, Jaishankar said that it has "come a long way," and assured that it is in "very good health." "India-US relations have come a long way, I assure you that relations are in very good health. As the relationship grows there will be issues. We've been talking to the US, my expectation is that the sharper edges will be addressed in the not too distant future." On India's relations with its neighbouring countries, Jaishankar said, "We hope to build a better, stronger neighbourhood but recognising that we have a unique challenge from one neighbour (Pakistan) until the issue of cross border terrorism is successfully addressed." "There is a strong link between domestic and foreign policy, " Jaishankar said, adding, "The co-relation between our national policy goals and foreign policy goals has become stronger." "I think today if you look at the big debates at multilateral forums - G20, BRICS, you will see that the Indian voice, Indian views are today heard much more clearly," the foreign minister added. Referring to PM Modi's upcoming US visit, Jaishankar said, "The diaspora is, of course, the forte and in many ways somewhat unique aspect of our foreign policy and that is underlined by what is going to be coming up very soon in the United States which is a big diaspora event in partnership with our Indian-American community." PM Modi will address the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on September 22, which will see the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian Americans. The event will also be attended by US President Donald Trump. The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA.

India-US relations in very good health, says foreign minister S Jaishankar

India on Sunday said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/final-list-of-assam-nrc-out-over-19-lakh-excluded-311-crore-included-in-list-246782">people excluded from the National Register of Citizens</a> (NRC) in Assam have not become "stateless" and will enjoy all rights as before till they exhaust all remedies available under the law.

"Exclusion from the NRC has no implication on the rights of an individual resident in Assam. For those who are not in the final list will not be detained and will continue to enjoy all the rights as before till they have exhausted all the remedies available under the law. It does not make the excluded person 'stateless'," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.

"It also does not make him or her a 'foreigner' within the legal meaning of the term. They will not be deprived of any rights or entitlements which they have enjoyed before," he noted at a press conference here.

He termed as "incorrect" commentaries in sections of the foreign media about aspects of the final NRC.

Kumar said updating of the NRC is a statutory, transparent, legal process mandated by the Supreme Court and this is not an executive-driven process.

"The process is being monitored by the Supreme Court directly and the government is acting in accordance with the directives issued by the court. The apex court of the land has itself set the deadlines for all steps that have been taken so far," he said.

Stressing that the NRC is a fair process based on scientific methods, Kumar said, "Inclusion in the NRC is a unique process, as it is based on 'application rather than 'house to house enumeration'. It means that any person in Assam could have sought to be included in the list on the basis of having documentation to prove lineage from an entitled person -- a person who was a resident of Assam as on March 24, 1971."

The NRC is a non-discriminatory process, which leaves "no room for bias and injustice".

As can be seen from the application form for data entry in NRC, there was no column in the application, asking for the "religion of the applicant", the MEA spokesperson said.

Anyone excluded from the list at this stage has a right to file an appeal within 120 days before a designated Foreigners Tribunal of receiving the notification of exclusion, Kumar said.

"All appeals and excluded cases will be examined by this Tribunal i.e. a judicial process. This judicial process will commence only after the appellate period is over. Thereafter, anyone still aggrieved by any decision of being excluded will have the right to approach the High Court of Assam and then the Supreme Court," he said.

Over 19 lakh people were excluded from the final NRC list that was published on Saturday.

"A total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final NRC, leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims," NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajela had said.

The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.

India on Sunday said people excluded from the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam have not become "stateless" and will enjoy all rights as before till they exhaust all remedies available under the law.

India on Sunday said people excluded from the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam have not become "stateless" and will enjoy all rights as before till they exhaust all remedies available under the law. "Exclusion from the NRC has no implication on the rights of an individual resident in Assam. For those who are not in the final list will not be detained and will continue to enjoy all the rights as before till they have exhausted all the remedies available under the law. It does not make the excluded person 'stateless'," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. "It also does not make him or her a 'foreigner' within the legal meaning of the term. They will not be deprived of any rights or entitlements which they have enjoyed before," he noted at a press conference here. He termed as "incorrect" commentaries in sections of the foreign media about aspects of the final NRC. Kumar said updating of the NRC is a statutory, transparent, legal process mandated by the Supreme Court and this is not an executive-driven process. "The process is being monitored by the Supreme Court directly and the government is acting in accordance with the directives issued by the court. The apex court of the land has itself set the deadlines for all steps that have been taken so far," he said. Stressing that the NRC is a fair process based on scientific methods, Kumar said, "Inclusion in the NRC is a unique process, as it is based on 'application rather than 'house to house enumeration'. It means that any person in Assam could have sought to be included in the list on the basis of having documentation to prove lineage from an entitled person -- a person who was a resident of Assam as on March 24, 1971." The NRC is a non-discriminatory process, which leaves "no room for bias and injustice". As can be seen from the application form for data entry in NRC, there was no column in the application, asking for the "religion of the applicant", the MEA spokesperson said. Anyone excluded from the list at this stage has a right to file an appeal within 120 days before a designated Foreigners Tribunal of receiving the notification of exclusion, Kumar said. "All appeals and excluded cases will be examined by this Tribunal i.e. a judicial process. This judicial process will commence only after the appellate period is over. Thereafter, anyone still aggrieved by any decision of being excluded will have the right to approach the High Court of Assam and then the Supreme Court," he said. Over 19 lakh people were excluded from the final NRC list that was published on Saturday. "A total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final NRC, leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims," NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajela had said. The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.

People excluded from National Register of Citizens not 'stateless': Ministry of External Affairs

The meeting between officials of foreign and defence ministry also known as&nbsp;US-India 2+2 Intersessional and Maritime Security Dialogue&nbsp;concluded in&nbsp;Monterey, California with focus on Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

A release from the Ministry of External Affairs said, ''Both sides discussed regional developments, and agreed to pursue their quest for a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific."

They also reviewed the progress and development of bilateral relations in cross-cutting defence, security, and foreign policy areas.

The meeting took place at&nbsp;Naval Postgraduate School with the participation of&nbsp;Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary in Ministry of External Affairs and V Anandarajan, Joint Secretary in Ministry of Defence from Indian side while from the US side Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs.&nbsp;

The inaugural 2+2 India-US dialogue took place in September 2018, in Delhi and the next meet is expected to take place next month in the United States.

2+2 is the highest forum of annual India-US engagement and has been developed in the background of growing engagement between Delhi and Washington.&nbsp;

The meeting between officials of foreign and defence ministry also known as US-India 2+2 Intersessional and Maritime Security Dialogue concluded in Monterey, California with focus on Indo-Pacific.

The meeting between officials of foreign and defence ministry also known as US-India 2+2 Intersessional and Maritime Security Dialogue concluded in Monterey, California with focus on Indo-Pacific. A release from the Ministry of External Affairs said, ''Both sides discussed regional developments, and agreed to pursue their quest for a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific." They also reviewed the progress and development of bilateral relations in cross-cutting defence, security, and foreign policy areas. The meeting took place at Naval Postgraduate School with the participation of Gourangalal Das, Joint Secretary in Ministry of External Affairs and V Anandarajan, Joint Secretary in Ministry of Defence from Indian side while from the US side Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs. The inaugural 2+2 India-US dialogue took place in September 2018, in Delhi and the next meet is expected to take place next month in the United States. 2+2 is the highest forum of annual India-US engagement and has been developed in the background of growing engagement between Delhi and Washington.

Regional developments discussed during India-US 2+2 meeting: Ministry of External Affairs