Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding, the top Indian diplomat said on Saturday, a move aimed at avoiding a Doklam-like situation in the future.

Modi said his talks with President Xi focussed on diverse areas of India-China cooperation. "We discussed ways to give impetus to our economic ties as well as people-to-people relations. Other areas we spoke about include agriculture, technology, energy and tourism," he said.

Briefing reporters at the end of the two-day informal summit between the two leaders in the central Chinese city Saturday, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said the two leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in all areas of the India-China border region.

"To this end, they issued strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust and mutual understanding and enhance predictability and effectiveness in the management of border affairs," Gokhale said.&nbsp;

He said the two leaders further directed their militaries to earnestly implement various confidence-building measures agreed upon between the two sides, including the principle of mutual and equal security, and strengthen existing institutional arrangements and information sharing mechanisms to prevent incidents in border regions.

They also endorsed the work of the special representatives to find a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement on the boundary issue.

The two countries have so far held 20 rounds of talks to resolve the boundary dispute and worked out different mechanisms to keep peace along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control.

His remarks assumes significance as the 'heart-to-heart' summit between Modi and Xi is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Doklam standoff last year.

"The two leaders were of the view that the two countries have the maturity and wisdom to handle all our differences through peaceful discussions within the context of the overall relationships and bearing in mind, we would respect each other's sensitivities, concerns and aspirations," Gokhale said.

Modi and Xi underlined that as two major countries India and China have wider and overlapping regional and global interests. They agreed on the need to strengthen strategic communication through greater consultation on all matters of common interest. "They believe that such strategic communication will have a positive influence on enhancing mutual understanding and will contribute to regional and global stability," Gokhale said.

The two leaders recognised the common threat posed by terrorism and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism, he said.

When asked whether the issue of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar was raised, he said the two leaders "did not go into specifics". China has repeatedly blocked India's bid to designate Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN.&nbsp;

The two leaders agreed that India and China are major powers, with strategic and decisional autonomy and they will pursue peaceful, stable and balanced relations and such a relationship will be a positive factor for stability amidst the current global uncertainties, he said, amidst increasing protectionist moves by countries like the US.

"The developments were reviewed from the strategic and long-term perspective. They agreed to significantly enhance efforts to build on the convergences through the established mechanisms in order to create the broadest possible platform for the future relationship," Gokhale said.

The two leaders underlined that trade should be balanced, it should be sustainable, and that the two sides should take advantage of the complementarities between the two economies.

Modi also mentioned the importance of balancing the trade, and the scope of the possibilities of agricultural exports and pharmaceutical exports to China.&nbsp;

The two sides also discussed climate change, sustainable development and food security.&nbsp;

Xi shared his experience in terms of the preservation of the Yangtze - China's longest river - and Modi shared his own experience on the question of the cleaning of the Ganga - India's longest river.

They also discussed how to promote sports between the two countries and how to strengthen tourism on the Buddhist circuit.

"They reiterated the importance of building an open, multi-polar, pluralist and participatory global economic order which will enable all countries to pursue their development and contribute to the elimination of poverty and inequality in all regions of the world. They spoke of their respective efforts to contribute to the regional and global economic development," Gokhale said.

They also underscored the importance of reform of multilateral financial and political institutions to make them representative and responsive to the needs of developing countries.

The forward-looking dialogue helped them in forging a common understanding of the future direction of India-China relations built upon mutual respect for each other's developmental aspirations and prudent management of differences with mutual sensitivity," he added.

Modi said his talks with President Xi focussed on diverse areas of India-China cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have decided to issue "strategic guidance" to their militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding, the top Indian diplomat said on Saturday, a move aimed at avoiding a Doklam-like situation in the future. Modi said his talks with President Xi focussed on diverse areas of India-China cooperation. "We discussed ways to give impetus to our economic ties as well as people-to-people relations. Other areas we spoke about include agriculture, technology, energy and tourism," he said. Briefing reporters at the end of the two-day informal summit between the two leaders in the central Chinese city Saturday, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said the two leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in all areas of the India-China border region. "To this end, they issued strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust and mutual understanding and enhance predictability and effectiveness in the management of border affairs," Gokhale said. He said the two leaders further directed their militaries to earnestly implement various confidence-building measures agreed upon between the two sides, including the principle of mutual and equal security, and strengthen existing institutional arrangements and information sharing mechanisms to prevent incidents in border regions. They also endorsed the work of the special representatives to find a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable settlement on the boundary issue. The two countries have so far held 20 rounds of talks to resolve the boundary dispute and worked out different mechanisms to keep peace along the 3,488-km long Line of Actual Control. His remarks assumes significance as the 'heart-to-heart' summit between Modi and Xi is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Doklam standoff last year. "The two leaders were of the view that the two countries have the maturity and wisdom to handle all our differences through peaceful discussions within the context of the overall relationships and bearing in mind, we would respect each other's sensitivities, concerns and aspirations," Gokhale said. Modi and Xi underlined that as two major countries India and China have wider and overlapping regional and global interests. They agreed on the need to strengthen strategic communication through greater consultation on all matters of common interest. "They believe that such strategic communication will have a positive influence on enhancing mutual understanding and will contribute to regional and global stability," Gokhale said. The two leaders recognised the common threat posed by terrorism and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism, he said. When asked whether the issue of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar was raised, he said the two leaders "did not go into specifics". China has repeatedly blocked India's bid to designate Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN. The two leaders agreed that India and China are major powers, with strategic and decisional autonomy and they will pursue peaceful, stable and balanced relations and such a relationship will be a positive factor for stability amidst the current global uncertainties, he said, amidst increasing protectionist moves by countries like the US. "The developments were reviewed from the strategic and long-term perspective. They agreed to significantly enhance efforts to build on the convergences through the established mechanisms in order to create the broadest possible platform for the future relationship," Gokhale said. The two leaders underlined that trade should be balanced, it should be sustainable, and that the two sides should take advantage of the complementarities between the two economies. Modi also mentioned the importance of balancing the trade, and the scope of the possibilities of agricultural exports and pharmaceutical exports to China. The two sides also discussed climate change, sustainable development and food security. Xi shared his experience in terms of the preservation of the Yangtze - China's longest river - and Modi shared his own experience on the question of the cleaning of the Ganga - India's longest river. They also discussed how to promote sports between the two countries and how to strengthen tourism on the Buddhist circuit. "They reiterated the importance of building an open, multi-polar, pluralist and participatory global economic order which will enable all countries to pursue their development and contribute to the elimination of poverty and inequality in all regions of the world. They spoke of their respective efforts to contribute to the regional and global economic development," Gokhale said. They also underscored the importance of reform of multilateral financial and political institutions to make them representative and responsive to the needs of developing countries. The forward-looking dialogue helped them in forging a common understanding of the future direction of India-China relations built upon mutual respect for each other's developmental aspirations and prudent management of differences with mutual sensitivity," he added.

To avoid Doklam like situation, Modi, Xi agree to issue 'strategic guidance' to their militaries to build trust

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today arrived here after a two-day informal summit meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan.

The Prime Minister was received at the airport by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

In their talks, PM Modi and President Xi decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to maintain peace along the border.

During the visit both the leaders held delegation-level talks and underscored the need for strengthening bilateral relations between India and China.

Prime Minister Modi said through the "Panchsheel", the bolstering of bilateral relations between the two Asian giants will be based on - shared vision, strong relationship, shared resolve, better communication and shared thought process.

(With inputs from Agencies)

The Prime Minister was received at the airport by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today arrived here after a two-day informal summit meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. The Prime Minister was received at the airport by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. In their talks, PM Modi and President Xi decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to maintain peace along the border. During the visit both the leaders held delegation-level talks and underscored the need for strengthening bilateral relations between India and China. Prime Minister Modi said through the "Panchsheel", the bolstering of bilateral relations between the two Asian giants will be based on - shared vision, strong relationship, shared resolve, better communication and shared thought process. (With inputs from Agencies)

PM Narendra Modi back after 2-day China visit

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said on Saturday China does not think it is important whether India accepts China's Belt and Road infrastructure project and China won't force it to.

Kong, speaking to reporters in the central Chinese city of Wuhan after an informal summit between the leaders of China and India, also said China does not think the Indian government has changed its official position that Tibet is a part of China.

China and India have concrete differences but the summit was not aimed at addressing these specific issues, Kong told reporters in the central Chinese city of Wuhan where the meeting took place.&nbsp;

The just-concluded informal summit between the leaders of China and India was a milestone in relations, Kong said.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the problems between China and India are of a limited, temporary nature, Kong said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

The just-concluded informal summit between the leaders of China and India was a milestone in relations, Kong said.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said on Saturday China does not think it is important whether India accepts China's Belt and Road infrastructure project and China won't force it to. Kong, speaking to reporters in the central Chinese city of Wuhan after an informal summit between the leaders of China and India, also said China does not think the Indian government has changed its official position that Tibet is a part of China. China and India have concrete differences but the summit was not aimed at addressing these specific issues, Kong told reporters in the central Chinese city of Wuhan where the meeting took place. The just-concluded informal summit between the leaders of China and India was a milestone in relations, Kong said. Chinese President Xi Jinping said the problems between China and India are of a limited, temporary nature, Kong said. (With inputs from Reuters)

China won't force India to accept Belt and Road project, says Chinese vice foreign minister

In a statement on Saturday Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said that China won't force India to accept its Belt and Road project.&nbsp;

Kong further noted that China does not think that India's acceptance of the project is important.

Kong addressed media at Wuhan after the ongoing informal summit between the PM Modi and President Xi Jinping concluded. He also said that the Xi-regime does not think the Indian government has changed its official position that Tibet is a part of China.

The two-day informal summit between PM Modi and Xi was described as a "forward-looking dialogue"&nbsp;between the two countries by the Ministry of External Affairs earlier today.

"PM Modi and President Xi recognised the common threat posed by terrorism and both reiterated their strong condemnation of a resolute opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Both committed to cooperate further in counter-terrorism," Gokhale added.

India and China also agreed to undertake a joint India-China economic project in Afghanistan at the summit, a move that could upset Pakistan.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Kong further noted that China does not think that India's acceptance of the project is

In a statement on Saturday Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said that China won't force India to accept its Belt and Road project. Kong further noted that China does not think that India's acceptance of the project is important. Kong addressed media at Wuhan after the ongoing informal summit between the PM Modi and President Xi Jinping concluded. He also said that the Xi-regime does not think the Indian government has changed its official position that Tibet is a part of China. The two-day informal summit between PM Modi and Xi was described as a "forward-looking dialogue" between the two countries by the Ministry of External Affairs earlier today. "PM Modi and President Xi recognised the common threat posed by terrorism and both reiterated their strong condemnation of a resolute opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Both committed to cooperate further in counter-terrorism," Gokhale added. India and China also agreed to undertake a joint India-China economic project in Afghanistan at the summit, a move that could upset Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Won't force India to accept Belt and Road project: China

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi held delegation-level talks at Wuhan on Friday as the two leaders engaged each other for the second time in less than a year after the BRICS summit.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
WATCH: PM Modi and President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Wuhan <a href="https://t.co/i28g1LLExD">https://t.co/i28g1LLExD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/989813335137828864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I hope such informal summits becomes a tradition between both the countries. I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," PM Modi told President Xi as the two began their talks in Hubei.

"India and China have the responsibility to work for 40 per cent of the world population,"&nbsp;Modi told President Xi, adding,"this means trying to successfully get the world rid of many problems. To work together towards this is a big opportunity for us."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Hubei. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> <a href="https://t.co/9sUE6G9Ajw">pic.twitter.com/9sUE6G9Ajw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/989808207932674049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Expanding on his personal equation with President Xi, PM Modi said: "The people of India feel really proud that I'm maybe the first prime minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital twice to receive me,"&nbsp;Modi told Xi during the talks.

Acknowledging PM Modi's gesture, President Xi said: "As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world."

"A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace, stability in the world," the Chinese President added.

"I believe in the future. We will meet from time to time. I look forward to having in-depth communication with you, he said, adding, I am sure, we can reach new and important common understandings and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level."

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h8_-6PbzIi8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Modi and Xi began their delegation talks on Friday

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi held delegation-level talks at Wuhan on Friday as the two leaders engaged each other for the second time in less than a year after the BRICS summit. WATCH: PM Modi and President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Wuhan https://t.co/i28g1LLExD — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 × "I hope such informal summits becomes a tradition between both the countries. I'll be happy, if in 2019, we can have such informal summit in India," PM Modi told President Xi as the two began their talks in Hubei. "India and China have the responsibility to work for 40 per cent of the world population," Modi told President Xi, adding,"this means trying to successfully get the world rid of many problems. To work together towards this is a big opportunity for us." Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping hold delegation level talks in Hubei. #China pic.twitter.com/9sUE6G9Ajw — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 × Expanding on his personal equation with President Xi, PM Modi said: "The people of India feel really proud that I'm maybe the first prime minister of India, for whom, you have come out of the capital twice to receive me," Modi told Xi during the talks. Acknowledging PM Modi's gesture, President Xi said: "As we meet, the international security is at a crucial period of adjustment. China and India are both important engines for global growth and we are central pillars for promoting a multi-polar and globalised world." "A good China-India relationship is an important and positive factor for maintaining peace, stability in the world," the Chinese President added. "I believe in the future. We will meet from time to time. I look forward to having in-depth communication with you, he said, adding, I am sure, we can reach new and important common understandings and help to take the China-India relationship to the next level."

'Will be happy if we can have informal summit in India,' Modi to President Xi during delegation-level talks

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today called Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to China as the one having "no agenda", but reminded him to raise the Doklam standoff with Chinese troops last year and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) with the leadership there.

Gandhi mocked Modi, saying "you look tense" on the visit.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Dear PM, 
 
Saw the live TV feed of your “No Agenda” China visit. 
 
You look tense! 
 
A quick reminder: 
 
1. DOKLAM 
2. China Pakistan Eco Corridor passes through POK. That’s Indian territory. 
 
India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. 
 
You have our support.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/989788654695567360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However extending his party's support, he told the prime minister that India wants to hear him talk about these crucial issues - Doklam and CPEC - with China.

"Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your&nbsp"No Agenda"&nbspChina visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through POK. That's Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a standoff in Doklam area last year. The face-off ended through negotiations after 73 days.

The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project.

Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today began talks at an unprecedented two-day informal summit in Wuhan city in central China. During the visit, the two leaders will have a series of one-on-one conversations on bilateral, global and regional issues.

The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today called Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to China as the one having "no agenda", but reminded him to raise the Doklam standoff with Chinese troops last year and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) with the leadership there. Gandhi mocked Modi, saying "you look tense" on the visit. Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your “No Agenda” China visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Eco Corridor passes through POK. That’s Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 27, 2018 × However extending his party's support, he told the prime minister that India wants to hear him talk about these crucial issues - Doklam and CPEC - with China. "Dear PM, Saw the live TV feed of your "No Agenda"&nbspChina visit. You look tense! A quick reminder: 1. DOKLAM 2. China Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through POK. That's Indian territory. India wants to hear you talk about these crucial issues. You have our support," Gandhi said on Twitter. Indian and Chinese troops were locked in a standoff in Doklam area last year. The face-off ended through negotiations after 73 days. The CPEC, a part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and India opposes the controversial project. Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today began talks at an unprecedented two-day informal summit in Wuhan city in central China. During the visit, the two leaders will have a series of one-on-one conversations on bilateral, global and regional issues.

'No Agenda visit': 'Dear PM, please talk about Doklam, CPEC,' urges Rahul Gandhi

Ahead of a significant though informal interaction between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, media in China by and large is saying that the Wuhan Summit will focus on a wide range of issues affecting and impacting both India and China, and both will need to manage their differences and focus on taking their existing cooperation to the next level.

Leading newspaper China Daily quoted excerpts from a recent article written by China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui in which said, "Both countries are at a critical stage of economic development and modernisation", and acknowledging that "it is natural for neighbours to have differences (and) that when differences can't be solved, for now, we should properly manage them and focus on cooperation."

The influential hard-line daily Global Times has given the headline "Informal Modi-Xi meeting heralds a new chapter in Sino-Indian relations".

The article suggests that during the Xi-Modi meeting, "China should let India know that Beijing does not define New Delhi as an opponent nor seek to hinder its development."

It further states that "China encourages India and Pakistan to resolve (the) Kashmir conflict in a peaceful way."

The Global Times further suggests that "China should convince India that (the) China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (project) is based on promoting economic cooperation "and does not influence China's neutrality".

It further cautions India not to use Tibet as the bargaining chip.

The state-run news agency Xinhua writes that the "Tete-e-tete between the two leaders is going to set the stage for Beijing and New Delhi to further exchange views over (the) long-term and strategic issues and to initiate fresh momentum for future bilateral cooperation."

Placing emphasis on global trade issues, the Xinhua commentary says both Xi and Modi have warned on different occasions of the dire threats of trade barriers to the world economy and that "both countries should firmly stick to the spirit of free trade so as to help maintain current global free trading system with the WTO as (the Centre)."

Another popular media outlet, the Huanqiu.com quoted the Ministry of National Defence, as saying, "Despite the obstacles between two armies, we hold a belief that we need to deepen mutual understanding, increase mutual trust and resolve our disagreements under the guidance of mutual common sense of both leaders.&nbsp;

Both Xi and Modi have warned on different occasions of the dire threats of trade barriers to the world economy

Ahead of a significant though informal interaction between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, media in China by and large is saying that the Wuhan Summit will focus on a wide range of issues affecting and impacting both India and China, and both will need to manage their differences and focus on taking their existing cooperation to the next level. Leading newspaper China Daily quoted excerpts from a recent article written by China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui in which said, "Both countries are at a critical stage of economic development and modernisation", and acknowledging that "it is natural for neighbours to have differences (and) that when differences can't be solved, for now, we should properly manage them and focus on cooperation." The influential hard-line daily Global Times has given the headline "Informal Modi-Xi meeting heralds a new chapter in Sino-Indian relations". The article suggests that during the Xi-Modi meeting, "China should let India know that Beijing does not define New Delhi as an opponent nor seek to hinder its development." It further states that "China encourages India and Pakistan to resolve (the) Kashmir conflict in a peaceful way." The Global Times further suggests that "China should convince India that (the) China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (project) is based on promoting economic cooperation "and does not influence China's neutrality". It further cautions India not to use Tibet as the bargaining chip. The state-run news agency Xinhua writes that the "Tete-e-tete between the two leaders is going to set the stage for Beijing and New Delhi to further exchange views over (the) long-term and strategic issues and to initiate fresh momentum for future bilateral cooperation." Placing emphasis on global trade issues, the Xinhua commentary says both Xi and Modi have warned on different occasions of the dire threats of trade barriers to the world economy and that "both countries should firmly stick to the spirit of free trade so as to help maintain current global free trading system with the WTO as (the Centre)." Another popular media outlet, the Huanqiu.com quoted the Ministry of National Defence, as saying, "Despite the obstacles between two armies, we hold a belief that we need to deepen mutual understanding, increase mutual trust and resolve our disagreements under the guidance of mutual common sense of both leaders.

How Chinese media views informal Xi-Modi meet

Ahead of PM Modi and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-wuhan-modi-xi-to-have-heart-to-heart-discussions-chinese-vp-xuanyou-132965">President Xi's meeting at Wuhan</a>, Pakistan said its friendship with China "time-tested" based on mutual trust and convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and international issues.&nbsp;

Pakistan's foreign office said relations with China are not aimed against any country. Pakistan and China continue to engage regularly on all matters of mutual interest, it said.

PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan with both leaders set to discuss matters in an informal environment which is being keenly watched by South Asia experts, including by leaders in Indian and Pakistan.

"We fully endorse foreign minister Wang Yi's recent statement that China-Pakistan all-weather strategic partnership is not only valuable treasure of the two countries, but also stands as an example for building new type international relations," the foreign office said, adding that "bilateral relations remain a priority" in the foreign policy of both countries.&nbsp;

Talking about the impending visit, India's ambassador to China, said the two leaders might talk about the current world situation mainly aimed at understanding each other better.

"We resolutely support each other’s core and major interests, strengthen collaboration on international and regional affairs to build China-Pakistan community of common destiny," Pakistan said in a statement.

The Pakistan foreign office added that Pak ministers had recently met top Chinese officials in Beijing including the Chinese vice-president in Beijing.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zgaIuLLCHeY" width="560"></iframe>

PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan

Ahead of PM Modi and President Xi's meeting at Wuhan, Pakistan said its friendship with China "time-tested" based on mutual trust and convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and international issues. Pakistan's foreign office said relations with China are not aimed against any country. Pakistan and China continue to engage regularly on all matters of mutual interest, it said. PM Modi is set to engage President Xi at Wuhan over two days at Wuhan with both leaders set to discuss matters in an informal environment which is being keenly watched by South Asia experts, including by leaders in Indian and Pakistan. "We fully endorse foreign minister Wang Yi's recent statement that China-Pakistan all-weather strategic partnership is not only valuable treasure of the two countries, but also stands as an example for building new type international relations," the foreign office said, adding that "bilateral relations remain a priority" in the foreign policy of both countries. Talking about the impending visit, India's ambassador to China, said the two leaders might talk about the current world situation mainly aimed at understanding each other better. "We resolutely support each other’s core and major interests, strengthen collaboration on international and regional affairs to build China-Pakistan community of common destiny," Pakistan said in a statement. The Pakistan foreign office added that Pak ministers had recently met top Chinese officials in Beijing including the Chinese vice-president in Beijing.

'Relations with China 'time-tested,' says Pak ahead of Modi-Xi summit

Congress President Rahul Gandhi today described the proposed US visa rules as a "huge setback" for India, and in a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi said there were "some things a hug can buy", but for visas "you're on your own".

Gandhi's remarks come amid Trump administration's plan to propose ending work permits for the spouses of H1-B visa holders to work in the US, a move that could have a devastating impact on tens of thousands of Indians.

"New US Visa Rules, huge setback for India...," the Congress president said on Twitter.

"There are some things a hug can buy. For visas, you're on your own," he said in a wordplay on the MasterCard ad campaign which says, "There are some things money can't buy. For everything else, there's MasterCard".

"Foreign Policy by Narendra Modi, Foreword by Donald Trump," Gandhi said mocking the government's diplomacy.

Gandhi has earlier also attacked the prime minister over what he termed 'hugplomacy' after Pakistan released 2008 Mumbai attacks mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed from house arrest.

The Trump administration's move to end the Obama-era rule could have an impact on more than 70,000 H-4 visas holders, who have work permits.

H-4 is issued to the spouse of H-1B visa holders, a significantly large number of whom are high-skilled professionals from India. They had obtained work permits under a special order issued by the previous Obama administration.

The Trump administration's move to end the Obama-era rule could have an impact on more than 70,000 H-4 visas holders, who have work permits.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi today described the proposed US visa rules as a "huge setback" for India, and in a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi said there were "some things a hug can buy", but for visas "you're on your own". Gandhi's remarks come amid Trump administration's plan to propose ending work permits for the spouses of H1-B visa holders to work in the US, a move that could have a devastating impact on tens of thousands of Indians. "New US Visa Rules, huge setback for India...," the Congress president said on Twitter. "There are some things a hug can buy. For visas, you're on your own," he said in a wordplay on the MasterCard ad campaign which says, "There are some things money can't buy. For everything else, there's MasterCard". "Foreign Policy by Narendra Modi, Foreword by Donald Trump," Gandhi said mocking the government's diplomacy. Gandhi has earlier also attacked the prime minister over what he termed 'hugplomacy' after Pakistan released 2008 Mumbai attacks mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed from house arrest. The Trump administration's move to end the Obama-era rule could have an impact on more than 70,000 H-4 visas holders, who have work permits. H-4 is issued to the spouse of H-1B visa holders, a significantly large number of whom are high-skilled professionals from India. They had obtained work permits under a special order issued by the previous Obama administration.

Hugs not good enough for US visas, tweets Rahul in jibe at Modi

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will take place in China's Wuhan city of Hubei province this Friday and Saturday.&nbsp

Both the leaders will hold bilateral meetings and discussions over a range of issues including the border standoffs and US President Donald Trump's 'protectionist' trade policy.&nbsp

"At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media.

The city of Wuhan holds great significance for the summit that is in itself historic in nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will not sign any agreements or issue a joint statement at the Wuhan summit this week but they will try to build mutual trust and reach important consensus to resolve the outstanding issues.

This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country, Kong noted.

"The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kong said.&nbsp

"In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he added.

"During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensuses, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship between the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs."

At Wuhan, the Indo-Sino ties are likely to get an overhaul which could translate into reduced differences and greater consensus between both the countries. The neighbouring countries could emerge as natural partners with deeper understanding and consensus on areas of disagreement.&nbsp

At Wuhan, Xi and Modi may mull over the current state of global affairs and mostly, how to drive international powers toward peace-building and brace-up for tougher global challenges.&nbsp

The leaders may share individual governance experiences to propel their respective nations toward growth and prosperity. Some of the areas of common interest shared by the Modi-government and Xi-led regime include international trade, global energy market, better and stronger representation at the BRICS, the SCO, and the G20.

It must be noted that India's role at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has not been an impressive one, something that has largely and mostly been seen as not conducive for the Europe-Asia enterprise the Wuhan summit thus becomes an opportunity for India to take a future course in such areas.&nbsp

This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country

The two-day-long informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping will take place in China's Wuhan city of Hubei province this Friday and Saturday. Both the leaders will hold bilateral meetings and discussions over a range of issues including the border standoffs and US President Donald Trump's 'protectionist' trade policy. "At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media. The city of Wuhan holds great significance for the summit that is in itself historic in nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will not sign any agreements or issue a joint statement at the Wuhan summit this week but they will try to build mutual trust and reach important consensus to resolve the outstanding issues. This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country, Kong noted. "The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kong said. "In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization," he added. "During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensuses, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship between the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs." At Wuhan, the Indo-Sino ties are likely to get an overhaul which could translate into reduced differences and greater consensus between both the countries. The neighbouring countries could emerge as natural partners with deeper understanding and consensus on areas of disagreement. At Wuhan, Xi and Modi may mull over the current state of global affairs and mostly, how to drive international powers toward peace-building and brace-up for tougher global challenges. The leaders may share individual governance experiences to propel their respective nations toward growth and prosperity. Some of the areas of common interest shared by the Modi-government and Xi-led regime include international trade, global energy market, better and stronger representation at the BRICS, the SCO, and the G20. It must be noted that India's role at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has not been an impressive one, something that has largely and mostly been seen as not conducive for the Europe-Asia enterprise the Wuhan summit thus becomes an opportunity for India to take a future course in such areas.

At Wuhan, Modi, Xi to have heart-to-heart discussions: Chinese VP Xuanyou

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-deficit-on-mind-modi-heads-to-wuhan-for-informal-meeting-with-xi-jinping-132774">With trade deficit on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-deficit-on-mind-modi-heads-to-wuhan-for-informal-meeting-with-xi-jinping-132774">mind</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-deficit-on-mind-modi-heads-to-wuhan-for-informal-meeting-with-xi-jinping-132774">, Modi heads to Wuhan for 'informal meeting' with Xi Jinping</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China for two days for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, as efforts at rapprochement gather pace following a testing year in ties between the two giant neighbours.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-pours-scorn-on-nuclear-talks-dismisses-tradesman-trump-132796">Iran pours scorn on nuclear talks, dismisses 'tradesman' Trump</a>

Iran's president poured scorn on Wednesday on US and European discussions over Tehran's nuclear agreement, and dismissed Donald Trump as a "tradesman" who lacked the qualifications to deal with a complex international pact.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-assembly-election-2018-modi-and-yogi-are-north-indian-imports-says-siddaramaiah-132772">Karnataka Assembly Election: Modi and Yogi are north Indian imports, says Siddaramaiah</a>

Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/asaram-sentenced-to-life-imprisonment-till-death-to-file-bail-plea-tomorrow-132769">Asaram sentenced to life imprisonment till death, to file bail plea tomorrow</a>

Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court today awarded life imprisonment to the self-styled godman, while the two other co-accused got a 20-year jail term.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-gautam-gambhir-steps-down-as-delhi-captain-says-couldnt-handle-the-pressure--132764">IPL 2018: Gautam Gambhir steps down as Delhi captain, says 'couldn't handle the pressure'</a>

Gautam Gambhir on Wednesday stepped down as the captain of Delhi, after the team poor's performance in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). &nbsp

Read the five big stories of the day here

With trade deficit on mind, Modi heads to Wuhan for 'informal meeting' with Xi Jinping Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China for two days for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, as efforts at rapprochement gather pace following a testing year in ties between the two giant neighbours. Iran pours scorn on nuclear talks, dismisses 'tradesman' Trump Iran's president poured scorn on Wednesday on US and European discussions over Tehran's nuclear agreement, and dismissed Donald Trump as a "tradesman" who lacked the qualifications to deal with a complex international pact. Karnataka Assembly Election: Modi and Yogi are north Indian imports, says Siddaramaiah Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state. Asaram sentenced to life imprisonment till death, to file bail plea tomorrow Nearly five years after rape charges were levelled against Asaram Bapu, the Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court today awarded life imprisonment to the self-styled godman, while the two other co-accused got a 20-year jail term. IPL 2018: Gautam Gambhir steps down as Delhi captain, says 'couldn't handle the pressure' Gautam Gambhir on Wednesday stepped down as the captain of Delhi, after the team poor's performance in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).

News brief: Big stories of the day

Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state.

Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy."

"@BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admitting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy," Siddaramaiah tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
. <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Karnataka</a> by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admiting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face <a href="https://twitter.com/BSYBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BSYBJP</a> to a dummy. 
 
PM may come & go. Here it is Siddaramaiah vs BSY & you know who is winning.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CongressMathomme?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CongressMathomme</a> <a href="https://t.co/IatRRstyAe">https://t.co/IatRRstyAe</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/988984915759960064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He further said the Prime Minister may come and go, but here it is a battle between him and Yeddyurappa, and the" saffron party knows who is winning in the May 12 Assembly polls.

In a blistering attack over Siddaramaiah's "imports" comment, the BJP said his attempt to divide North and South India is "disgusting" and added it understands his anxiety of being" "rejected" by his constituents.

"Imports? How much low can you stoop Mr CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or "two about leadership when he's here," BJP tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Imports? How much lower can you stoop Mr. CM? 
 
Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. 
 
While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or two about leadership when he's here. <a href="https://t.co/YYo978DO74">https://t.co/YYo978DO74</a>
— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka/status/988997433882378240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Indirectly hitting out at Sonia Gandhi, the BJP asked Siddaramaiah what he had to say about occupants of 10, Janpath, when he is calling Modi and Adityanath as North Indian imports.

"Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural," the BJP tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? 
 
We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr. CM. 
 
When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural. <a href="https://t.co/YYo978DO74">https://t.co/YYo978DO74</a>
— BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka/status/988998792438431744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the incumbent Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah said, that corruption is a contentious issue in this election and that the BJP is levelling "wild allegations" against him for political benefits. "He called me 'Siddaruppaiya', it's an irresponsible statement from PM", Siddaramaiah was quoted as saying by ANI.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
When he was asked if campaigning by a non-Kannadiga such as Rahul Gandhi would really affect the people of Karnataka, he said that Gandhi's campaigning has made a big impact, especially on the youth in the state.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy."

Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath "North Indian imports" in the May 12 election campaign and said it had no leaders in the state. Siddaramaiah also said BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa had been reduced to a "dummy." "@BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admitting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy," Siddaramaiah tweeted. . @BJP4Karnataka by waiting for North Indian imports like PM Modi, UPCM Adityanath is admiting they have no leaders in the state. They have reduced their CM face @BSYBJP to a dummy. PM may come & go. Here it is Siddaramaiah vs BSY & you know who is winning.#CongressMathomme https://t.co/IatRRstyAe — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 25, 2018 × He further said the Prime Minister may come and go, but here it is a battle between him and Yeddyurappa, and the" saffron party knows who is winning in the May 12 Assembly polls. In a blistering attack over Siddaramaiah's "imports" comment, the BJP said his attempt to divide North and South India is "disgusting" and added it understands his anxiety of being" "rejected" by his constituents. "Imports? How much low can you stoop Mr CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or "two about leadership when he's here," BJP tweeted. Imports? How much lower can you stoop Mr. CM? Your attempt at North-South divide is disgusting. But we understand your anxiety. While you are rejected by your own constituents, PM Modi has a pan India appeal. It's time you learn a thing or two about leadership when he's here. https://t.co/YYo978DO74 — BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) April 25, 2018 × Indirectly hitting out at Sonia Gandhi, the BJP asked Siddaramaiah what he had to say about occupants of 10, Janpath, when he is calling Modi and Adityanath as North Indian imports. "Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural," the BJP tweeted. Well, speaking of imports, what do you have to say about the occupants of 10 JP? We can understand your frustration & desperation Mr. CM. When you realize PM Modi is more popular than you are even in your own Chamundeshwari, these kind of outbursts are natural. https://t.co/YYo978DO74 — BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) April 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, the incumbent Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah said, that corruption is a contentious issue in this election and that the BJP is levelling "wild allegations" against him for political benefits. "He called me 'Siddaruppaiya', it's an irresponsible statement from PM", Siddaramaiah was quoted as saying by ANI. When he was asked if campaigning by a non-Kannadiga such as Rahul Gandhi would really affect the people of Karnataka, he said that Gandhi's campaigning has made a big impact, especially on the youth in the state. (With inputs from Agencies)

Karnataka Assembly Election: Modi and Yogi are north Indian imports, says Siddaramaiah

China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang on Tuesday addressed the media over the informal meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping set to take place on April 27-28.&nbsp

Currently, Sushma Swarak and Nirmala Sitharaman are in Beijing to attend the foreign and defence ministers' meet organised by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO). Member countries in the SCO&nbspinclude China, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan.

This<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/doklam-happened-due-to-lack-of-mutual-trust-says-china-132612"> informal summit</a> is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country.&nbsp"At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media.

"The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kang said.&nbsp

"In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the&nbspShanghai Cooperation Organization," he added.

Kang further informed that "During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensus, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship&nbspbetween the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs."

"The two sides agreed that an informal meeting would be a good idea so that the two leaders would make full and in-depth exchanges on major issues of common concern in a suitable atmosphere. We believe that more important consensus will be reached during the informal meeting in Wuhan which will contribute to the sound and stable development of China-India relations," Kang finally said.&nbsp

&nbsp

China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang on Tuesday addressed the media over the informal meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping set to take place on April 27-28. Currently, Sushma Swarak and Nirmala Sitharaman are in Beijing to attend the foreign and defence ministers' meet organised by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO). Member countries in the SCO&nbspinclude China, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan. This informal summit is the first of its kind and there is no precedent in each other's country. "At the informal summit, the two leaders will have heart-to-heart discussions on overarching issues and try to build mutual trust and consensus to resolve outstanding differences," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou told the media. "The frequent exchanges between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi in recent years have taken place in various forms. One example is the "hometown diplomacy" as characterized by President Xi Jinping's visit to India in 2014 and Prime Minister Modi's visit to China in 2015," Kang said. "In addition, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi have met several times on the sidelines of the summits of multilateral mechanisms such as BRICS, the G20, and the&nbspShanghai Cooperation Organization," he added. Kang further informed that "During these occasions, they exchanged views on issues of common interest and reached many important consensus, which has offered strong guidance to the China-India relations and enabled a good working relationship and personal friendship&nbspbetween the two leaders. At the same time, in the face of unprecedented changes in the world today as well as uncertainty and instability in the current international situation, President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Modi, as the leaders of the two largest developing countries, also feel that the two countries need to communicate in great depth on some long-term, comprehensive, and strategic issues embedded in bilateral relations and international affairs." "The two sides agreed that an informal meeting would be a good idea so that the two leaders would make full and in-depth exchanges on major issues of common concern in a suitable atmosphere. We believe that more important consensus will be reached during the informal meeting in Wuhan which will contribute to the sound and stable development of China-India relations," Kang finally said.

Modi-Xi to make in-depth exchanges on major issues of common concern: China foreign ministry

Former BJP leader Yashwant Sinha, who announced his retirement and quit the BJP on April 21, made scathing remarks at PM Modi-led government. Speaking to media at his residence, Sinha said that the ruling government, in the past four years, has made the situation "worse than Emergency".

Sinha further added that people in the country feel insecure over actions taken by the Modi government, which, he said, has "destroyed the temple of democracy".

"The situation created by the Modi government is even worse than the Emergency proclaimed by Indira Gandhi," Sinha alleged.

According to Sinha, no community in the country feels secure due to the actions of the central government.

Sinha also talked about the washout of this year's Budget session and claimed that it was the Modi government which did not want it to function smoothly as it did not want to face the 'no-confidence motion' despite the Opposition's demand.

The former external affairs minister mentioned that that former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had not hesitated to table 'no-confidence motion' in the year 1998.&nbsp

Sinha alleged the government for not caring to maintain the sanctity of the Parliament. He described the central government as one that tries to control the Supreme Court, the Election Commission and the press.

"Leaders will speak and the cadres will remain silent as they have no guts to raise their voices," Sinha noted alleging that there is no inner democracy in the BJP.

Former BJP leader also questioned the use of agencies such as CBI, NIA, ED and Income Tax by the government for "harassing and gagging opposition leaders".

Sinha's post-retirement plans include a continued fight against farmers exploitation and distress. He said he will continue to work towards the cause of workers of the unorganised sector, youth, students and weaker section of the society by addressing meetings throughout the country.

(With inputs from PTI)

Sinha further added that people in the country feel insecure over actions taken by the Modi government

Former BJP leader Yashwant Sinha, who announced his retirement and quit the BJP on April 21, made scathing remarks at PM Modi-led government. Speaking to media at his residence, Sinha said that the ruling government, in the past four years, has made the situation "worse than Emergency". Sinha further added that people in the country feel insecure over actions taken by the Modi government, which, he said, has "destroyed the temple of democracy". "The situation created by the Modi government is even worse than the Emergency proclaimed by Indira Gandhi," Sinha alleged. According to Sinha, no community in the country feels secure due to the actions of the central government. Sinha also talked about the washout of this year's Budget session and claimed that it was the Modi government which did not want it to function smoothly as it did not want to face the 'no-confidence motion' despite the Opposition's demand. The former external affairs minister mentioned that that former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had not hesitated to table 'no-confidence motion' in the year 1998. Sinha alleged the government for not caring to maintain the sanctity of the Parliament. He described the central government as one that tries to control the Supreme Court, the Election Commission and the press. "Leaders will speak and the cadres will remain silent as they have no guts to raise their voices," Sinha noted alleging that there is no inner democracy in the BJP. Former BJP leader also questioned the use of agencies such as CBI, NIA, ED and Income Tax by the government for "harassing and gagging opposition leaders". Sinha's post-retirement plans include a continued fight against farmers exploitation and distress. He said he will continue to work towards the cause of workers of the unorganised sector, youth, students and weaker section of the society by addressing meetings throughout the country. (With inputs from PTI)

Modi government has created situation worse than Emergency: Yashwant Sinha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday had a conversation with the party lawmakers and legislatures using his Narendra Modi App and asked them to keep a distance from the media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We commit mistakes and give masala to media. The moment we see a camera, we jump to make a statement as if we are great social scientists or experts ... and then these ill-informed statements are used by media. It is not the media's fault," he said.

Modi also asked legislators to apply restraint before commenting on sensitive issues.

“If everyone starts giving opinions then the main issue gets deflected and harms the party and personal image. Specific people have been appointed to reply on issues,” the PM said.&nbsp;

This comes following the much-talked-about Kathua rape case where two BJP ministers passed remarks and subsequently stepped down from their posts. They have also gone public demanding a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation, aggravating the situation in the state which is widely polarised over the issue.

Modi also praised the party members for their continued hard work and said that his government was focusing on education for children, opportunities for youth and healthcare for the elderly.

He also asked all the party MLAs to undertake at least one developmental work for villages under them, while directing MPs to increase their Twitter followers to at least 3 lakh. During the one hour-long interaction, the PM said 11 crore people had already benefited from the Mudra Yojana scheme.

Modi also asked legislators to apply restraint before commenting on sensitive issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday had a conversation with the party lawmakers and legislatures using his Narendra Modi App and asked them to keep a distance from the media. "We commit mistakes and give masala to media. The moment we see a camera, we jump to make a statement as if we are great social scientists or experts ... and then these ill-informed statements are used by media. It is not the media's fault," he said. Modi also asked legislators to apply restraint before commenting on sensitive issues. “If everyone starts giving opinions then the main issue gets deflected and harms the party and personal image. Specific people have been appointed to reply on issues,” the PM said. This comes following the much-talked-about Kathua rape case where two BJP ministers passed remarks and subsequently stepped down from their posts. They have also gone public demanding a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation, aggravating the situation in the state which is widely polarised over the issue. Modi also praised the party members for their continued hard work and said that his government was focusing on education for children, opportunities for youth and healthcare for the elderly. He also asked all the party MLAs to undertake at least one developmental work for villages under them, while directing MPs to increase their Twitter followers to at least 3 lakh. During the one hour-long interaction, the PM said 11 crore people had already benefited from the Mudra Yojana scheme.

Don't give media too much masala: PM Modi's advice to party members

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-reassures-pakistan-on-ties-ahead-of-xis-meeting-with-indias-modi-132264">Ties will 'never rust': China reassures Pakistan ahead of Xi's meeting with PM Modi</a>

Ahead of this week's meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi, China today reassured Pakistan that relations between both the nations would "never rust" and are as firm as ever. &nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-pakistan-having-security-economic-issues-in-cpec-project-132289">China, Pakistan having security, economic issues in CPEC project: Report</a>

The US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project which is a part of Beijing's promising Belt Road Initiative (BRI) is now turning out to quiet a task in terms of security and in the economic front for China and Pakistan.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-either-all-or-nothing-says-iran-foreign-minister-over-nuclear-deal--132298">It is either all or nothing, says Iran Foreign Minister over </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-either-all-or-nothing-says-iran-foreign-minister-over-nuclear-deal--132298">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-either-all-or-nothing-says-iran-foreign-minister-over-nuclear-deal--132298"> deal</a>

The European signatories of Iran's nuclear deal with major powers should convince US President Donald Trump not to exit the accord as there is no "plan B" for the agreement, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted on Monday (April 23).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dhaka-siliguri-kathmandu-bus-service-goes-on-trial-132320">Dhaka-Siliguri-Kathmandu bus service goes on trial</a>

Government representatives of Bangladesh, India and Nepal launched the tri-nation trial bus service in Dhaka on Monday. Two buses from Dhaka set off for Kathmandu and would transit through Siliguri.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/good-news-sania-mirza-shoaib-malik-are-expecting-a-baby-132324">Good news! Sania Mirza, Shoaib Malik are expecting a baby</a>

Tennis champion Sania Mirza and husband, former Pakistan cricket captain Shoaib Malik, announced on Monday that they are expecting a baby in a post shared by the couple on Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp

Ties will 'never rust': China reassures Pakistan ahead of Xi's meeting with PM Modi Ahead of this week's meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi, China today reassured Pakistan that relations between both the nations would "never rust" and are as firm as ever. China, Pakistan having security, economic issues in CPEC project: Report The US $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project which is a part of Beijing's promising Belt Road Initiative (BRI) is now turning out to quiet a task in terms of security and in the economic front for China and Pakistan. It is either all or nothing, says Iran Foreign Minister over nuclear deal The European signatories of Iran's nuclear deal with major powers should convince US President Donald Trump not to exit the accord as there is no "plan B" for the agreement, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted on Monday (April 23). Dhaka-Siliguri-Kathmandu bus service goes on trial Government representatives of Bangladesh, India and Nepal launched the tri-nation trial bus service in Dhaka on Monday. Two buses from Dhaka set off for Kathmandu and would transit through Siliguri. Good news! Sania Mirza, Shoaib Malik are expecting a baby Tennis champion Sania Mirza and husband, former Pakistan cricket captain Shoaib Malik, announced on Monday that they are expecting a baby in a post shared by the couple on Twitter and Instagram.

China on Monday said that President Xi Jinping and his Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi will discuss United States's "protectionist" trade policy during the 2-day-long summit this week.&nbsp

Both the leaders will also talk about the "unprecedented" global developments in the past 100 years.&nbsp

Modi and Xi will also hold talks over bilateral relations, trade penalties by the US, the Korean peninsula crisis among other issues of pressing concern.&nbsp

"During this meeting, the two leaders will discuss the changes that have taken place and which are unprecedented in the past 100 years and exchange views on the strategic, over-arching and long-term issues concerning our bilateral relations," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang noted.

"The two sides believe that the strategic and global significance of our relations have become more prominent and our common interests far outweigh our differences," Lu noted.

China and the United States are involved in an ongoing trade spat. The Trump administration has also threatened India with taxes if import duties are not lowered.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Modi and Xi will also hold talks over bilateral relations, trade penalties by the US, the Korean peninsula crisis among other issues

China on Monday said that President Xi Jinping and his Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi will discuss United States's "protectionist" trade policy during the 2-day-long summit this week. Both the leaders will also talk about the "unprecedented" global developments in the past 100 years. Modi and Xi will also hold talks over bilateral relations, trade penalties by the US, the Korean peninsula crisis among other issues of pressing concern. "During this meeting, the two leaders will discuss the changes that have taken place and which are unprecedented in the past 100 years and exchange views on the strategic, over-arching and long-term issues concerning our bilateral relations," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang noted. "The two sides believe that the strategic and global significance of our relations have become more prominent and our common interests far outweigh our differences," Lu noted. China and the United States are involved in an ongoing trade spat. The Trump administration has also threatened India with taxes if import duties are not lowered.

Modi, Xi to discuss US' 'protectionist' trade policy during summit

After Sushma Swaraj held bilateral talks with her Chinese counterpart Wangi Yi on her three-day visit to China on Saturday, it was announced that PM Modi will now be visiting China for an informal summit on 27-28 April.&nbsp

Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the central Chinese city at the invitation of President Xi, Wang said at a joint media event with visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after their talks.&nbsp

PM Modi will be meeting President Xi Jinping after hitting a rocky relationship in 2017 over the Dokalam standoff. It will be an informal summit meeting between Xi and Modi during which both leaders will try to work out a new paradigm for the bilateral ties bogged down with a host of disputes and differences.&nbsp

While talking to the media Wangi Yo today said that India is a natural partner for China&nbsp

Swaraj arrived in Beijing on Saturday for a four-day visit to take part in the foreign ministers’ meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). She was received by Wang at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing ahead of their bilateral meeting.

Wang said the bilateral ties have witnessed a good development and shown a positive momentum this year under the guidance of the leaders of the two nations.&nbsp

“On the eve of the closing of China’s National People’s Congress this year, President Xi Jinping received a very important phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Wang said. He said the call spurred a positive momentum in the dialogue process between the two countries.

Modi has been visiting China every year since 2015. While in 2015 he was on a bilateral trip, the PM was in China in 2016 for G-20 Summit followed by BRICS Summit in Xiamen in 2017. China hosted both these summits in its capacity as the chair of the grouping and such is the case for the SCO Summit.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the central Chinese city at the invitation of President Xi, Wang said at a joint media event with visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after their talks

After Sushma Swaraj held bilateral talks with her Chinese counterpart Wangi Yi on her three-day visit to China on Saturday, it was announced that PM Modi will now be visiting China for an informal summit on 27-28 April. Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the central Chinese city at the invitation of President Xi, Wang said at a joint media event with visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj after their talks. PM Modi will be meeting President Xi Jinping after hitting a rocky relationship in 2017 over the Dokalam standoff. It will be an informal summit meeting between Xi and Modi during which both leaders will try to work out a new paradigm for the bilateral ties bogged down with a host of disputes and differences. While talking to the media Wangi Yo today said that India is a natural partner for China Swaraj arrived in Beijing on Saturday for a four-day visit to take part in the foreign ministers’ meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). She was received by Wang at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing ahead of their bilateral meeting. Wang said the bilateral ties have witnessed a good development and shown a positive momentum this year under the guidance of the leaders of the two nations. “On the eve of the closing of China’s National People’s Congress this year, President Xi Jinping received a very important phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Wang said. He said the call spurred a positive momentum in the dialogue process between the two countries. Modi has been visiting China every year since 2015. While in 2015 he was on a bilateral trip, the PM was in China in 2016 for G-20 Summit followed by BRICS Summit in Xiamen in 2017. China hosted both these summits in its capacity as the chair of the grouping and such is the case for the SCO Summit.

PM Modi to visit China on April 27-28 for informal summit

PM Modi arrived in Berlin on Friday night on the German leg of his European tour which included visits to Sweden and UK.

The prime minister met German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the German Chancellery in Berlin. The two heads of the state will sit down for dinner later tonight.

Earlier, the PM Modi joined other heads of government for the leaders' retreat at Windsor Castle, which concluded the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the UK.

The closed-door meetings in Windsor comprised the informal segment of CHOGM, where the leaders meet without any pre-set agenda and without the presence of their close aides.

The retreat marks an end to the week-long summit in Britain, which started on Monday with forums on the theme of business, women, youth and civil society.

Prime Minister Modi addressed the second plenary of the executive session, during which he reiterated India's focus on small island developing nations of the organisation and delivering "demand-driven, rather than donor-driven" assistance to the organisation's smaller member states.

Earlier, the PM Modi joined other heads of government for the leaders' retreat at Windsor Castle

PM Modi arrived in Berlin on Friday night on the German leg of his European tour which included visits to Sweden and UK. The prime minister met German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the German Chancellery in Berlin. The two heads of the state will sit down for dinner later tonight. Earlier, the PM Modi joined other heads of government for the leaders' retreat at Windsor Castle, which concluded the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the UK. The closed-door meetings in Windsor comprised the informal segment of CHOGM, where the leaders meet without any pre-set agenda and without the presence of their close aides. The retreat marks an end to the week-long summit in Britain, which started on Monday with forums on the theme of business, women, youth and civil society. Prime Minister Modi addressed the second plenary of the executive session, during which he reiterated India's focus on small island developing nations of the organisation and delivering "demand-driven, rather than donor-driven" assistance to the organisation's smaller member states.

PM Modi arrives in Berlin, meets German Chancellor Merkel

PM Modi addressed the Indian community at Central Hall Westminster in a freewheeling chat with Prasoon Joshi asserting that India knows how to hit back at terror.

The Indian prime minister arrived at the Westminister Hall amid loud cheer from the Indian diaspora.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/live-pm-modi-set-to-speak-at-central-hall-westminster-131249">Read the full text of Modi's address at Central Hall Westminster</a>

During his chat with Prasoon Joshi, Modi said:"When someone has put a terror export factory in place and makes attempts to attack us from the back, Modi knows how to answer in the same language," adding, "the surgical strikes were a 100 per cent success," referring to the strikes carried out by the Indian army across the LoC in 2016.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I do not need to read books to understand poverty. I have lived in poverty, I know what it is to be poor and belong to the backward sections of society. I want to work for the poor, the marginalised and the downtrodden: PM Modi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath</a> <a href="https://t.co/axtcWOmPKF">pic.twitter.com/axtcWOmPKF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986653258969174016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We never hid surgical strikes, we replied to Pakistan in its on language," PM Modi said while replying to a question.

Speaking about his journey in politics, the PM said,"I am a go-getter, and I am proud of it."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Modi talks about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SurgicalStrikes?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SurgicalStrikes</a>, says, 'When someone has put a terror export factory in place & makes attempts to attack us from the back, Modi knows how to answer in the same language.' Crowd raises 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' slogans. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/London?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#London</a> <a href="https://t.co/nLUQDY3sKQ">pic.twitter.com/nLUQDY3sKQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986650872368287744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Chalta hai attitude has gone," Modi told the gathering at Westminster Hall, adding that earlier India was happy with incremental change.

"In India, tea seller can become PM, Modi said, as the crowd cheered, while adding that tea seller becoming PM is proof of democracy.

"Everyday I get up with a sense of purpose, India rightfully expects a lot from me, he said amid a sea of Indians at the famed Westminster hall in London.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Impatience is not a bad thing. If a person has a cycle, person then aspires for a scooter. If a person has a scooter, person aspires for a car. It is nature to aspire. India is getting increasingly aspirational: PM in London <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath</a> <a href="https://t.co/cB3Hpsgwqa">pic.twitter.com/cB3Hpsgwqa</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986643466976407552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The Indian prime minister had a busy day in London on Tuesday, meeting the British Prime Minister Theresa May and Prince Charles including Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace.

PM Modi addressed the Indian community at Central Hall Westminster in a freewheeling chat with Prasoon Joshi asserting that India knows how to hit back at terror. The Indian prime minister arrived at the Westminister Hall amid loud cheer from the Indian diaspora. Read the full text of Modi's address at Central Hall Westminster During his chat with Prasoon Joshi, Modi said:"When someone has put a terror export factory in place and makes attempts to attack us from the back, Modi knows how to answer in the same language," adding, "the surgical strikes were a 100 per cent success," referring to the strikes carried out by the Indian army across the LoC in 2016. I do not need to read books to understand poverty. I have lived in poverty, I know what it is to be poor and belong to the backward sections of society. I want to work for the poor, the marginalised and the downtrodden: PM Modi #BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath pic.twitter.com/axtcWOmPKF — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2018 × "We never hid surgical strikes, we replied to Pakistan in its on language," PM Modi said while replying to a question. Speaking about his journey in politics, the PM said,"I am a go-getter, and I am proud of it." #WATCH: PM Modi talks about #SurgicalStrikes, says, 'When someone has put a terror export factory in place & makes attempts to attack us from the back, Modi knows how to answer in the same language.' Crowd raises 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' slogans. #BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath #London pic.twitter.com/nLUQDY3sKQ — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2018 × "Chalta hai attitude has gone," Modi told the gathering at Westminster Hall, adding that earlier India was happy with incremental change. "In India, tea seller can become PM, Modi said, as the crowd cheered, while adding that tea seller becoming PM is proof of democracy. "Everyday I get up with a sense of purpose, India rightfully expects a lot from me, he said amid a sea of Indians at the famed Westminster hall in London. Impatience is not a bad thing. If a person has a cycle, person then aspires for a scooter. If a person has a scooter, person aspires for a car. It is nature to aspire. India is getting increasingly aspirational: PM in London #BharatKiBaatSabkeSaath pic.twitter.com/cB3Hpsgwqa — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2018 ×

'We never hid surgical strikes, it was 100 per cent successful,' says PM Modi at Central Hall Westminster

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-talking-directly-with-north-korea-over-meeting-with-kim-trump-131078">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-talking-directly-with-north-korea-over-meeting-with-kim-trump-131078"> in direct talks with North Korea 'at a very high level': Trump</a>

President Donald Trump today said the US was in direct talks with North Korea "at a very high level" ahead of his planned summit with Kim Jong-un. Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have not spoken directly, the White House said, but the US president confirmed that Washington and Pyongyang had been in contact at "very high levels" to prepare for a historic meeting between them.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-arrives-in-uk-for-commonwealth-heads-of-government-meeting-131093">Modi arrives in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-arrives-in-uk-for-commonwealth-heads-of-government-meeting-131093">UK</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-arrives-in-uk-for-commonwealth-heads-of-government-meeting-131093"> for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UK today for a four-day visit of bilateral engagements as well as multilateral discussions as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson received Modi at the Heathrow airport here.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ten-killed-as-rainstorm-hits-bengal-rail-road-air-traffic-affected-131081">Ten killed as rainstorm hits Bengal rail, road, air traffic affected</a>

Ten people were killed and several others injured after strong winds of up to 98 km per hour hit Kolkata and its adjoining areas late on Tuesday night. Four died were reported in Kolkata, while 4 people in Howrah.One death was reported from Bankura and another from Hooghly.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/8000-starbucks-outlets-to-be-shut-in-us-on-may-29-for-racial-tolerance-training-131084">US: 8,000 Starbucks outlets to shut down for racial-tolerance training</a>

Starbucks Corp will close 8,000 company-owned US cafes for the afternoon on May 29 so 175,000 employees can undergo racial tolerance training in response to protests and calls for boycotts after the arrest of two black men waiting in a Philadelphia store.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/barbara-bush-wife-of-ex-president-of-us-george-h-w-bush-dead-at-92-131077">Barbara Bush, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/barbara-bush-wife-of-ex-president-of-us-george-h-w-bush-dead-at-92-131077">wife</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/barbara-bush-wife-of-ex-president-of-us-george-h-w-bush-dead-at-92-131077"> of ex-US President George HW Bush, dies at 92</a>

Barbara Bush, the wife of one former president and mother of another, died at the age of 92 on Tuesday. Bush was the wife of the 41st president, George H W Bush, and mother of the 43rd, George W Bush.

US in direct talks with North Korea 'at a very high level': Trump President Donald Trump today said the US was in direct talks with North Korea "at a very high level" ahead of his planned summit with Kim Jong-un. Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have not spoken directly, the White House said, but the US president confirmed that Washington and Pyongyang had been in contact at "very high levels" to prepare for a historic meeting between them. Modi arrives in UK for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UK today for a four-day visit of bilateral engagements as well as multilateral discussions as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson received Modi at the Heathrow airport here. Ten killed as rainstorm hits Bengal rail, road, air traffic affected Ten people were killed and several others injured after strong winds of up to 98 km per hour hit Kolkata and its adjoining areas late on Tuesday night. Four died were reported in Kolkata, while 4 people in Howrah.One death was reported from Bankura and another from Hooghly. US: 8,000 Starbucks outlets to shut down for racial-tolerance training Starbucks Corp will close 8,000 company-owned US cafes for the afternoon on May 29 so 175,000 employees can undergo racial tolerance training in response to protests and calls for boycotts after the arrest of two black men waiting in a Philadelphia store. Barbara Bush, wife of ex-US President George HW Bush, dies at 92 Barbara Bush, the wife of one former president and mother of another, died at the age of 92 on Tuesday. Bush was the wife of the 41st president, George H W Bush, and mother of the 43rd, George W Bush.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-russia-blocking-international-inspectors-from-reaching-suspected-syria-chemical-attack-site-130912">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-russia-blocking-international-inspectors-from-reaching-suspected-syria-chemical-attack-site-130912"> says Russia blocking international inspectors from reaching suspected Syria chemical attack site</a>

The United States accused Russia on Monday of blocking international inspectors from reaching the site of a suspected poison gas attack in Syria and said Russians or Syrians may have tampered with evidence on the ground.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-sweden-for-india-nordic-summit-receives-ceremonial-reception-130899">Modi arrives in Sweden for India-Nordic Summit, met at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-sweden-for-india-nordic-summit-receives-ceremonial-reception-130899">airport</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-sweden-for-india-nordic-summit-receives-ceremonial-reception-130899"> by Swedish PM</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Sweden late night on Monday 9:30 pm (local time) as part of the first India-Nordic Summit. He was received by his Swedish counterpart Stefan Lofven at the Stolkhome Arlanda airport.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-struggles-to-contain-dissent-in-karnataka-congress-after-ticket-distribution-130902">Siddaramaiah struggles to contain dissent in Karnataka Congress after distribution of tickets</a>

The AICC released the first list of 218 candidates on Sunday night for the Karnataka assembly elections, prompting a series of protests across the state. Protests were witnessed in Nelamangala, Siraguppa, Bengaluru, Ballari, Mandya, Chikkamagalur, Udupi, Tumkur, Bagalkote and Haveri. Supporters of ticket aspirants who were left disappointed took to the streets, shouted slogans against Siddaramaiah and burnt tyres as a mark of protest.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-kendrick-lamar-wins-pulitzer-prize-for-music-130903">Kendrick Lamar becomes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-kendrick-lamar-wins-pulitzer-prize-for-music-130903">first</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-kendrick-lamar-wins-pulitzer-prize-for-music-130903"> rapper to win Pulitzer Prize for Music</a>

Kendrick Lamar has won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Music for his album ‘DAMN.’ which “captures the complexity of modern African-American life”. Lamar is the first rapper to win the prize, which is usually given to classical or jazz artists.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-air-defences-shoot-down-missiles-over-two-air-bases-state-tv-130910">Syrian air </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-air-defences-shoot-down-missiles-over-two-air-bases-state-tv-130910">defences</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-air-defences-shoot-down-missiles-over-two-air-bases-state-tv-130910"> shoot down missiles over two air bases in Homs: State TV</a>

Syrian anti-aircraft defences shot down missiles fired at the Syrian air base of Shayrat in Homs province late on Monday and another base northeast of the capital, Damascus, Syria's state television and pro-Iranian Hezbollah media said.

US says Russia blocking international inspectors from reaching suspected Syria chemical attack site The United States accused Russia on Monday of blocking international inspectors from reaching the site of a suspected poison gas attack in Syria and said Russians or Syrians may have tampered with evidence on the ground. Modi arrives in Sweden for India-Nordic Summit, met at airport by Swedish PM Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Sweden late night on Monday 9:30 pm (local time) as part of the first India-Nordic Summit. He was received by his Swedish counterpart Stefan Lofven at the Stolkhome Arlanda airport. Siddaramaiah struggles to contain dissent in Karnataka Congress after distribution of tickets The AICC released the first list of 218 candidates on Sunday night for the Karnataka assembly elections, prompting a series of protests across the state. Protests were witnessed in Nelamangala, Siraguppa, Bengaluru, Ballari, Mandya, Chikkamagalur, Udupi, Tumkur, Bagalkote and Haveri. Supporters of ticket aspirants who were left disappointed took to the streets, shouted slogans against Siddaramaiah and burnt tyres as a mark of protest. Kendrick Lamar becomes first rapper to win Pulitzer Prize for Music Kendrick Lamar has won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Music for his album ‘DAMN.’ which “captures the complexity of modern African-American life”. Lamar is the first rapper to win the prize, which is usually given to classical or jazz artists. Syrian air defences shoot down missiles over two air bases in Homs: State TV Syrian anti-aircraft defences shot down missiles fired at the Syrian air base of Shayrat in Homs province late on Monday and another base northeast of the capital, Damascus, Syria's state television and pro-Iranian Hezbollah media said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the world in a globally broadcast live event from the historic Central Hall Westminster in London during his visit to the UK, following in the footsteps of speakers such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

Modi will arrive in London from Sweden on Tuesday night and is set for a packed day of bilateral meetings and events on Wednesday before the live telecast from Central Hall Westminster.

According to the Europe India Forum, the organisers of Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath on Wednesday evening, the Indian prime minister will address people of all nationalities and backgrounds as questions pour in on social media from far and wide ? from the North Pole to New Zealand and Saudi Arabia to San Francisco.

"It will be a no-holds-barred interaction with Prime Minister Modi, in a manner and format never witnessed before," said Vijay Chauthaiwale, in charge of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Foreign Affairs Department.

Central Hall Westminster, previously known as the Methodist Central Hall, is one of the largest multi-purpose venues in the heart of London and the site of the first-ever United Nations General Assembly in 1946.

Since its opening in October 1912, the then Methodist Central Hall established itself as a prime setting for current affairs and debates and played host to Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to the UK in 1931 at the peak of India's struggle for independence.

Anti-apartheid leader Martin Luther King Jr, the Dalai Lama and Princess Diana are some of the other high-profile speakers at the hall.

"The venue is of great global significance and will make history with this unique niche event," said the Europe India Forum, the organisation behind the mega diaspora event attended by nearly 60,000 people at Wembley Stadium during Modi's last UK visit in November 2015.

Nearly 100 young volunteers from across the UK are reportedly giving the final touches to the Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath event, scheduled for early evening on April 18, as they finalise the list of just under 2,000 attendees chosen by ballot from online registrations over the last few weeks.

The organisers said they have had an "overwhelming response" to the studio-style interaction, which will see Modi in conversation with a host who will put questions to him from around the world.

Modi will attend the executive session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in London on April 19 and the CHOGM leaders' retreat in Windsor Castle on April 20 before heading back to India.&nbsp;

Modi will arrive in London from Sweden on Tuesday night and is set for a packed day of bilateral meetings and events on Wednesday before the live telecast from Central Hall Westminster

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the world in a globally broadcast live event from the historic Central Hall Westminster in London during his visit to the UK, following in the footsteps of speakers such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Modi will arrive in London from Sweden on Tuesday night and is set for a packed day of bilateral meetings and events on Wednesday before the live telecast from Central Hall Westminster. According to the Europe India Forum, the organisers of Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath on Wednesday evening, the Indian prime minister will address people of all nationalities and backgrounds as questions pour in on social media from far and wide ? from the North Pole to New Zealand and Saudi Arabia to San Francisco. "It will be a no-holds-barred interaction with Prime Minister Modi, in a manner and format never witnessed before," said Vijay Chauthaiwale, in charge of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Foreign Affairs Department. Central Hall Westminster, previously known as the Methodist Central Hall, is one of the largest multi-purpose venues in the heart of London and the site of the first-ever United Nations General Assembly in 1946. Since its opening in October 1912, the then Methodist Central Hall established itself as a prime setting for current affairs and debates and played host to Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to the UK in 1931 at the peak of India's struggle for independence. Anti-apartheid leader Martin Luther King Jr, the Dalai Lama and Princess Diana are some of the other high-profile speakers at the hall. "The venue is of great global significance and will make history with this unique niche event," said the Europe India Forum, the organisation behind the mega diaspora event attended by nearly 60,000 people at Wembley Stadium during Modi's last UK visit in November 2015. Nearly 100 young volunteers from across the UK are reportedly giving the final touches to the Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath event, scheduled for early evening on April 18, as they finalise the list of just under 2,000 attendees chosen by ballot from online registrations over the last few weeks. The organisers said they have had an "overwhelming response" to the studio-style interaction, which will see Modi in conversation with a host who will put questions to him from around the world. Modi will attend the executive session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in London on April 19 and the CHOGM leaders' retreat in Windsor Castle on April 20 before heading back to India.

On UK visit, Modi to address world from same London venue as Gandhi, Martin Luther King

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first health centre under Ayushman Bharat Scheme here today.

He also inaugurated the first phase of the Bastar Internet scheme under which a 40,000-km-long network of fibre optics cable would be spread across the seven districts of the tribal region.

The districts are Bijapur, Narayanpur, Bastar, Kanker, Kondagaon, Sukma and Dantewada.

Modi, who is the first prime minister to visit the tribal district of Bijapur, also inaugurated a new rail line and a passenger train between Gudum and Bhanupratapur, bringing north Bastar region on railways' map.

This was the prime minister's fourth visit to Chhattisgarh, where assembly elections are due later the year. He had visited Dantewada in May 2015, Naya Raipur and Rajnandgaon in February 2016 and Naya Raipur in November 2016.

Modi also inaugurated bank branches in seven villages and visited rural BPO centre developed under the India BPO promotion scheme. The BPO centre is provided Internet by the Bastar internet scheme.

He also laid foundation stones for road and bridge projects worth over Rs 1,700 crore.

The prime minister's visit to the state coincides with the birth anniversary of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh chaired the programme while Health Minister J P Nadda was the chief guest on the occasion.

Under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, the government aims to open 1.5 lakh health and wellness centre by 2022, which would be equipped to treat host of diseases, including blood pressure, diabetes, cancer and old-age illness.

Also under the scheme, the government has prepared the broad contour of the National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) and work is on to finalise parameters for identifying beneficiaries and hospital entitlement.&nbsp;

Under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, the government aims to open 1.5 lakh health and wellness centre by 2022, which would be equipped to treat host of diseases, including blood pressure, diabetes, cancer and old-age illness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first health centre under Ayushman Bharat Scheme here today. He also inaugurated the first phase of the Bastar Internet scheme under which a 40,000-km-long network of fibre optics cable would be spread across the seven districts of the tribal region. The districts are Bijapur, Narayanpur, Bastar, Kanker, Kondagaon, Sukma and Dantewada. Modi, who is the first prime minister to visit the tribal district of Bijapur, also inaugurated a new rail line and a passenger train between Gudum and Bhanupratapur, bringing north Bastar region on railways' map. This was the prime minister's fourth visit to Chhattisgarh, where assembly elections are due later the year. He had visited Dantewada in May 2015, Naya Raipur and Rajnandgaon in February 2016 and Naya Raipur in November 2016. Modi also inaugurated bank branches in seven villages and visited rural BPO centre developed under the India BPO promotion scheme. The BPO centre is provided Internet by the Bastar internet scheme. He also laid foundation stones for road and bridge projects worth over Rs 1,700 crore. The prime minister's visit to the state coincides with the birth anniversary of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh chaired the programme while Health Minister J P Nadda was the chief guest on the occasion. Under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, the government aims to open 1.5 lakh health and wellness centre by 2022, which would be equipped to treat host of diseases, including blood pressure, diabetes, cancer and old-age illness. Also under the scheme, the government has prepared the broad contour of the National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) and work is on to finalise parameters for identifying beneficiaries and hospital entitlement.

Chhattisgarh: Modi inaugurates first health centre under Ayushman Bharat Scheme

On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, the 127th birthday of the father of the Indian constitution, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Kovind took to Twitter to extend their wishes to the nation.&nbsp

They also expressed their gratitude towards BR Ambedkar, for framing the constitution of India, which is considered the backbone for the smooth functioning of the country.

Wishing people on Dalit icon BR Ambedkar's 127th birth anniversary, Kovind tweeted: "Homage to Dr BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. An icon of our nation, Dr Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality who waged a life-long struggle for a modern India free of caste and other prejudices, ensuring equal rights for women and for the disadvantaged."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Homage to Dr B.R. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. An icon of our nation, Dr Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality who waged a life-long struggle for a modern India free of caste and other prejudices, ensuring equal rights to women and for the disadvantaged <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/984968254195027968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, Modi said in a tweet: "Pujya Babasaheb gave hope to lakhs of people belonging to the poorest and marginalised sections of society.&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Greetings on Ambedkar Jayanti. Pujya Babasaheb gave hope to lakhs of people belonging to the poorest and marginalised sections of society. We remain indebted to him for his efforts towards the making of our Constitution. 
 
सभी देशवासियों को अम्बेडकर जयंती की शुभकामनाएं। जय भीम! <a href="https://t.co/NZW6QsKgN0">pic.twitter.com/NZW6QsKgN0</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/984968515970101248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp

Saturday, April 14, marks the 127th birth anniversary of Bhim Rao Ambedkar. He was a social reformer, economist and jurist who encouraged the Dalit Buddhist Movement.

On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti, the 127th birthday of the father of the Indian constitution, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Kovind took to Twitter to extend their wishes to the nation. They also expressed their gratitude towards BR Ambedkar, for framing the constitution of India, which is considered the backbone for the smooth functioning of the country. Wishing people on Dalit icon BR Ambedkar's 127th birth anniversary, Kovind tweeted: "Homage to Dr BR Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. An icon of our nation, Dr Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality who waged a life-long struggle for a modern India free of caste and other prejudices, ensuring equal rights for women and for the disadvantaged." Homage to Dr B.R. Ambedkar on his birth anniversary. An icon of our nation, Dr Ambedkar was a multifaceted personality who waged a life-long struggle for a modern India free of caste and other prejudices, ensuring equal rights to women and for the disadvantaged #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 14, 2018 × Meanwhile, Modi said in a tweet: "Pujya Babasaheb gave hope to lakhs of people belonging to the poorest and marginalised sections of society. Greetings on Ambedkar Jayanti. Pujya Babasaheb gave hope to lakhs of people belonging to the poorest and marginalised sections of society. We remain indebted to him for his efforts towards the making of our Constitution. सभी देशवासियों को अम्बेडकर जयंती की शुभकामनाएं। जय भीम! pic.twitter.com/NZW6QsKgN0 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 14, 2018 ×

Kovind, Modi greet nation on Ambedkar Jayanti, say Babasaheb gave hope to poorest, marginalised sections

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP government strengthened the law against atrocities on Dalits.&nbsp;

Speaking after dedicating the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial to the nation in New Delhi, Modi said ''In 2015, we strengthened the law against atrocities on Dalits. We have increased the number of crimes against Dalits enlisted in the law from 22 to 47.''&nbsp;

Modi also came down heavily on the previous Congress government for not recognising the contribution of Dr. Ambedkar to the country and said that Congress insulted Baba Saheb .&nbsp;

''Congress used all its power to remove any mention of Baba Saheb from the country's history. This is the bitter truth of history that when Baba Saheb was alive, Congress left no stone unturned to insult him,''Modi said.&nbsp;

After Atal Ji's government, when Congress came to power they closed the files related to this project, Modi said and added that when he was given a chance to serve people in 2014, he dug out the files and worked on it.&nbsp;

Many governments came to power after independence but what should have been done much before has happened now, after decades, Modi noted. This memorial is a tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar, he further said during his address.&nbsp;

Baba Saheb would not have imagined that after independence govt with a working culture of 'latkana, atkana & bhatkana' will come to power. In the last 4 years our government has re-started work on programs and schemes that have been pending for many-many years, Modi said.&nbsp;

Earlier Modi interacted with the Delhi metro commuters and posed for selfies on his way to 26, Alipur Road, where he dedicated Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial to the nation.&nbsp;

'Congress used all its power to remove any mention of Baba Saheb from the country's history. This is the bitter truth of history that when Baba Saheb was alive, Congress left no stone unturned to insult him,' Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP government strengthened the law against atrocities on Dalits. Speaking after dedicating the Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial to the nation in New Delhi, Modi said ''In 2015, we strengthened the law against atrocities on Dalits. We have increased the number of crimes against Dalits enlisted in the law from 22 to 47.'' Modi also came down heavily on the previous Congress government for not recognising the contribution of Dr. Ambedkar to the country and said that Congress insulted Baba Saheb . ''Congress used all its power to remove any mention of Baba Saheb from the country's history. This is the bitter truth of history that when Baba Saheb was alive, Congress left no stone unturned to insult him,''Modi said. After Atal Ji's government, when Congress came to power they closed the files related to this project, Modi said and added that when he was given a chance to serve people in 2014, he dug out the files and worked on it. Many governments came to power after independence but what should have been done much before has happened now, after decades, Modi noted. This memorial is a tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar, he further said during his address. Baba Saheb would not have imagined that after independence govt with a working culture of 'latkana, atkana & bhatkana' will come to power. In the last 4 years our government has re-started work on programs and schemes that have been pending for many-many years, Modi said. Earlier Modi interacted with the Delhi metro commuters and posed for selfies on his way to 26, Alipur Road, where he dedicated Dr. Ambedkar National Memorial to the nation.

BJP government strengthened law against atrocities on Dalits: Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104">Inflation falls for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104">third</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104"> straight month, is at 4.28% in March</a>

Retail inflation slowed to 4.28 per cent in March, the third consecutive month of decline, mainly on account of easing food prices including vegetables, government data showed today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-star-shuttler-kidambi-srikanth-is-new-world-no-1-130094">Indian star shuttler Kidambi Srikanth is new World No. 1</a>

Kidambi Srikanth reached the top of men's singles rankings with 76895 points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) chart which was released today. He became the first Indian shuttler to achieve the number one rank in the modern ranking system. Though legendary Indian shuttler Prakash Padukone had reached the number one spot in 1980 but at that time computerized ranking system was not implemented.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089">'Laziness, incompetence' of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089">previous</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089"> govt hurt India's defence: Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hit out at the previous UPA government for "policy paralysis" in the defence sector and told foreign companies that it will not take a decade to take a decision on procurement of a batch of 110 fighter jets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-could-face-us-aid-cuts-over-human-trafficking-sources-130086">Pakistan could face US aid cuts over human trafficking: Sources</a>

The Trump administration is warning Pakistan it could lose US civilian aid worth tens of millions of dollars this year if Washington finds that the South Asian nation has not done enough to combat human trafficking, US officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-says-has-proof-assad-regime-behind-syria-chemical-attack-130110">Macron says has 'proof' Assad regime behind Syria chemical attack</a>

Speaking to a television interview France President Emmanuel Macron has admitted to having proof about the Syrian government using chemical weapons on its civilians.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Inflation falls for third straight month, is at 4.28% in March Retail inflation slowed to 4.28 per cent in March, the third consecutive month of decline, mainly on account of easing food prices including vegetables, government data showed today. Indian star shuttler Kidambi Srikanth is new World No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth reached the top of men's singles rankings with 76895 points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) chart which was released today. He became the first Indian shuttler to achieve the number one rank in the modern ranking system. Though legendary Indian shuttler Prakash Padukone had reached the number one spot in 1980 but at that time computerized ranking system was not implemented. 'Laziness, incompetence' of previous govt hurt India's defence: Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hit out at the previous UPA government for "policy paralysis" in the defence sector and told foreign companies that it will not take a decade to take a decision on procurement of a batch of 110 fighter jets. Pakistan could face US aid cuts over human trafficking: Sources The Trump administration is warning Pakistan it could lose US civilian aid worth tens of millions of dollars this year if Washington finds that the South Asian nation has not done enough to combat human trafficking, US officials said. Macron says has 'proof' Assad regime behind Syria chemical attack Speaking to a television interview France President Emmanuel Macron has admitted to having proof about the Syrian government using chemical weapons on its civilians.

PM Modi will arrive in Chennai today to officially inaugurate the four-day-long DefExpo on the outskirts of Chennai.

Heavy security is in place as PM Modi arrives in Chennai with DMK working president M K Stalin declaring that people would hoist black flags atop their houses during PM Modi's visit over the government's &nbsp;"inaction" on the Cauvery issue.

On Wednesday, the Indian Premier League(IPL) cricket tournament was shifted from the city over the Cauvery row after protesters demonstrated outside the stadium. Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth had called for IPL venue to be shifted out of Chennai in view of the ongoing Cauvery row and the plight of the farmers.

&nbsp;Rajinikanth had said&nbsp;he felt "embarrassed" that the IPL matches are being held in the city. The BCCI confirmed on Wednesday evening that Chennai will no longer host the IPL matches in the city as a result.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Security tightened outside Chennai airport ahead of PM Modi's arrival. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryProtests?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryProtests</a> <a href="https://t.co/LogJRIMYRF">pic.twitter.com/LogJRIMYRF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/984263419531538432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said though the Prime Minister will be fasting, he will be inaugurating the defence expo in Chennai.

Modi and other BJP leaders are slated to observe a day-long fast today to protest against the "washout" of the Budget session of Parliament due to disruptions by the Opposition.

According to the Defence Ministry, over 670 defence firms including 154 foreign manufacturers are participating in the exhibition of weapons and military hardware.

It is being attended by official delegations from over 47 countries including the US, the UK, Russia, Afghanistan and Sweden, Finland, Italy, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Portugal, Seychelles and Vietnam.

Heavy security is in place as PM Modi arrives in Chennai with DMK working president M K Stalin declaring that people would hoist black flags atop their houses

PM Modi will arrive in Chennai today to officially inaugurate the four-day-long DefExpo on the outskirts of Chennai. Heavy security is in place as PM Modi arrives in Chennai with DMK working president M K Stalin declaring that people would hoist black flags atop their houses during PM Modi's visit over the government's "inaction" on the Cauvery issue. On Wednesday, the Indian Premier League(IPL) cricket tournament was shifted from the city over the Cauvery row after protesters demonstrated outside the stadium. Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth had called for IPL venue to be shifted out of Chennai in view of the ongoing Cauvery row and the plight of the farmers. Rajinikanth had said he felt "embarrassed" that the IPL matches are being held in the city. The BCCI confirmed on Wednesday evening that Chennai will no longer host the IPL matches in the city as a result. Security tightened outside Chennai airport ahead of PM Modi's arrival. #CauveryProtests pic.twitter.com/LogJRIMYRF — ANI (@ANI) April 12, 2018 × Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said though the Prime Minister will be fasting, he will be inaugurating the defence expo in Chennai. Modi and other BJP leaders are slated to observe a day-long fast today to protest against the "washout" of the Budget session of Parliament due to disruptions by the Opposition. According to the Defence Ministry, over 670 defence firms including 154 foreign manufacturers are participating in the exhibition of weapons and military hardware. It is being attended by official delegations from over 47 countries including the US, the UK, Russia, Afghanistan and Sweden, Finland, Italy, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Portugal, Seychelles and Vietnam.

Watch: PM Modi to arrive in Chennai today as Cauvery row takes centrestage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with BJP lawmakers will be observing a day-long fast on Thursday in Delhi&nbsp;against the recent Parliment washout by the opposition parties.&nbsp;

The decision was announced by the BJP on the last day of the Budget session last week after accusing the opposition, mainly Congress, of practicing divisive politics.&nbsp;

While Modi will go about his day and fast from his residence in Lok Kalyan Marg, BJP president Amit Shah, on the other hand, will be sitting on a dharna (silent protest) in Hubli-Dharwad against the Siddaramaiah government in poll-bound Karnataka.&nbsp;

BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said that the idea of the fast was mooted by Modi to communicate to the nation that BJP is aware of the suffering imposed on them by the logjam in Parliament. "This is why all NDA MPs decided to forego their salaries for 23 days of the Budget session," Rao added.

This year’s Budget session has been the most unproductive in the last eight years and the BJP has tried to put the blame on Congress for stopping deliberation in both Houses.&nbsp;

The Congress had stopped important bills from being passed, which led to a "criminal wastage" of the taxpayer's money, parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar had told reporters.

The BJP's announcement of a fast comes just a day after Congress chief Rahul Gandhi led his party on a nationwide fast targeting the Modi government over the washout of the Parliament session and a host of other issues, including the alleged caste and communal violence.&nbsp;

Modi will address all BJP MLAs (nearly 1,600) through video conferencing on Wednesday and interact with some of them&nbsp;when the MPs will be holding "Samata Diwas" in their respective constituencies on the occasion of Jyotiba Phule birth anniversary. All BJP MPs will go on a fast in their respective constituencies.

Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said the "farce of a fast by the Modi government and BJP" on the April 12 should really be a fast to seek an apology over a range of issues including the banking frauds, leak of CBSE paper and dilution of SC/ST Act.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The decision was announced by the BJP on the last day of the Budget session last week after accusing the opposition, mainly Congress, of practicing divisive politics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with BJP lawmakers will be observing a day-long fast on Thursday in Delhi against the recent Parliment washout by the opposition parties. The decision was announced by the BJP on the last day of the Budget session last week after accusing the opposition, mainly Congress, of practicing divisive politics. While Modi will go about his day and fast from his residence in Lok Kalyan Marg, BJP president Amit Shah, on the other hand, will be sitting on a dharna (silent protest) in Hubli-Dharwad against the Siddaramaiah government in poll-bound Karnataka. BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao said that the idea of the fast was mooted by Modi to communicate to the nation that BJP is aware of the suffering imposed on them by the logjam in Parliament. "This is why all NDA MPs decided to forego their salaries for 23 days of the Budget session," Rao added. This year’s Budget session has been the most unproductive in the last eight years and the BJP has tried to put the blame on Congress for stopping deliberation in both Houses. The Congress had stopped important bills from being passed, which led to a "criminal wastage" of the taxpayer's money, parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar had told reporters. The BJP's announcement of a fast comes just a day after Congress chief Rahul Gandhi led his party on a nationwide fast targeting the Modi government over the washout of the Parliament session and a host of other issues, including the alleged caste and communal violence. Modi will address all BJP MLAs (nearly 1,600) through video conferencing on Wednesday and interact with some of them when the MPs will be holding "Samata Diwas" in their respective constituencies on the occasion of Jyotiba Phule birth anniversary. All BJP MPs will go on a fast in their respective constituencies. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said the "farce of a fast by the Modi government and BJP" on the April 12 should really be a fast to seek an apology over a range of issues including the banking frauds, leak of CBSE paper and dilution of SC/ST Act.

PM Modi, BJP lawmakers to fast tomorrow over Parliament 'washout'

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged&nbsp;dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.&nbsp;

The strike call&nbsp;was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/scheduled-caste-and-scheduled-tribe-act-why-the-dalits-are-protesting-127874">Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting</a>

Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as&nbsp;a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike&nbsp;and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. <a href="https://t.co/WstiaLqCmA">pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983181439738015744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-dalit-community-being-tortured-during-bharat-bandh-bjp-lawmaker-udit-raj-129068">Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj</a>

As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line.

Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community.

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-reaches-out-to-dalit-community-says-no-one-respected-ambedkar-the-way-our-govt-has-128296">Narendra Modi </a>on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had.

Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs.

The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

Dalits have been protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

Dalit organisations staging fresh protests and called for a strike in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, on Monday over alleged dilusion of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The strike call was called by 30 Dalit organisations, reports said. It was also reported that the protestors blocked vehicles and shutdown shops, Dalit activists are laying siege on road at Thiruvananthapuram. Meanwhile, Police arrested Dalit activist and Aadivasi Gothra Mahasabha leader Geethanandan and held 15 others as well for allegedly blocking vehicles at Kochi. Also read: Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Act: Why the Dalits are protesting Police have beefed up security across the state with reports of violence expected as a result of the strike-call. Kerala Vypari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samiti refused to support the strike and announced shops will be open on Monday, reports said. #Kerala: Members of Dalit community organisations stage protest in Thiruvananthapuram over SC/ST Act issue. pic.twitter.com/WstiaLqCmA — ANI (@ANI) April 9, 2018 × Also read: Dalit community being 'tortured' after Bharat Bandh: BJP lawmaker Udit Raj As the Dalit agitation continued on Sunday, Congress leader Nitin Raut said Dalits, who are "angry" with the NDA government, will play a key role in deciding the country's next prime minister a year down the line. Newly-appointed chairman of the Congress' SC department Raut said Dalit youth will get attracted to Gandhi's leadership for a positive future than other non-BJP/NDA leaders, including those representing the community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 4 had said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs. The violence swept across north India, with Dalits protesting against a recent Supreme Court order on the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court order bans the automatic arrest and filing of cases against people accused under the act.

SC/ST Act: Dalit organisations call for shutdown in Kerala

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday escalated attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he called a re-tendering of an approximately USD 15 billion fighter jet deal.

In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal.

"Modi Scam Alert!

15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners.

RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends, "Gandhi said.

The Ministry of Defence on April 6 said India is in process of acquiring 110 fighter aircraft. This is one of the world's biggest military procurement in recent years as it could cost the Indian government a huge USD 15 billion, reports noted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" data-lang="en">
Modi Scam Alert! 
 
15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. 
 
RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends.<a href="https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK">https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/982483009336217600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Request for Information for procurement of fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force for 110 fighter aircraft has been released by the Ministry of Defence.

"Procurement should have a maximum of 15 percent aircraft in flyway condition and 85 percent will be manufactured in India under 'Make in India'," said the Ministry of Defence.

It added that 25 percent fighter aircraft will be twin seat and 75 percent single seat.

The Nationalist Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had earlier signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation of France to purchase 36 Rafale jets.

This is not the first time that Gandhi has alleged corruption in the Rafale deal.

In February, Gandhi posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal and alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and changed the deal.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday escalated attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he called a re-tendering of an approximately USD 15 billion fighter jet deal. In a tweet, Gandhi speculated that Prime Minister Modi could re-tender the contract and "favour friends" involved with the controversial Rafale deal. "Modi Scam Alert! 15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends, "Gandhi said. The Ministry of Defence on April 6 said India is in process of acquiring 110 fighter aircraft. This is one of the world's biggest military procurement in recent years as it could cost the Indian government a huge USD 15 billion, reports noted. Modi Scam Alert! 15 Billion $ fighter jet deal re-tendered. PM's friends race to tie up STRATEGIC partners. RAFALE, 40,000 Cr. loss to exchequer was "Sayonara" money to French, so PM could re-tender contract and favour friends.https://t.co/X4oTNjkXTK — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 7, 2018 × Request for Information for procurement of fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force for 110 fighter aircraft has been released by the Ministry of Defence. "Procurement should have a maximum of 15 percent aircraft in flyway condition and 85 percent will be manufactured in India under 'Make in India'," said the Ministry of Defence. It added that 25 percent fighter aircraft will be twin seat and 75 percent single seat. The Nationalist Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had earlier signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation of France to purchase 36 Rafale jets. This is not the first time that Gandhi has alleged corruption in the Rafale deal. In February, Gandhi posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal and alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and changed the deal.

Rahul steps up attack on PM Modi over 110 fighter aircraft purchase plan to 'favour friends'

modi

Modi, News on Modi, stories on Modi, articles on Modi, Modi stories at Wion, Modi news, Modi latest news