Russian FM Sergei Lavrov is in India amid Ukraine-Russia conflict. In a recent update on Lavrov's visit, Russian foreign minister will meet Indian prime minister Narendra Modi. To get you more details, watch this report by WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

Tug-of-war diplomacy: Russian FM Sergei Lavrov to meet Indian PM Narendra Modi

Indian PM Narendra Modi virtually attended the BIMSTEC summit and said that India's focus is on strengthening the BIMSTEC. India has granted $1 million to BIMSTEC as well.

Indian PM Narendra Modi calls for regional unity, grants $1 million to BIMSTEC

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 5th BIMSTEC summit virtually on March 30th. S Jaishankar is already in Sri Lanka for the summit.

PM Narendra Modi to attend seven-nation BIMSTEC summit virtually

Israel's Prime Minister Naftali Bennett will be visiting India on April 2. This will be Bennett's first official visit to India. He is expected to meet PM Modi, and discuss trade, security, and Ukraine with him. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Israel's PM Naftali Bennett to visit India

<p>Ace Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen went down fighting against reigning Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen in the men's singles final of the All England Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Sunday (March 20). Axelsen dominated the proceedings right from the start of the final and wrapped it up in straight sets to clinch his second All England men's singles title.</p>

<p>Axelsen defeated Sen 21-10, 21-15 in straight sets to lift the prestigious trophy. Despite his heartbreaking loss in the final, Sen was lauded by many for putting up a spirited show against world no.1 Axelsen. The 20-year-old had entered the final after defeating defending champion&nbsp;Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia in the semi-final.</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to laud Sen for his spirited show against Axelsen in the final and wished him well for his future. PM Modi said he was confident that Lakshya will scale new heights of success for India in badminton in the near future.</p>

<p>"Proud of you @lakshya_sen! You've shown remarkable grit and tenacity. You put up a spirited fight. Best wishes for your future endeavours. I am confident you will keep scaling new heights of success," the Indian Prime Minister said in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud of you <a href="https://twitter.com/lakshya_sen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lakshya_sen</a>! You’ve shown remarkable grit and tenacity. You put up a spirited fight. Best wishes for your future endeavours. I am confident you will keep scaling new heights of success.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1505608920584585217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viktor-axelsen-defeats-indias-lakshya-sen-in-final-to-clinch-mens-singles-title-at-all-england-open-2022-464130">Viktor Axelsen defeats India's Lakshya Sen in final to clinch men's singles title at All England Open 2022</a></p>

<p>Apart from PM Modi, several other popular celebrities from all walks of life came together to laud Sen for his brilliant run in the All England Open Badminton Championships this year. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, India's Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and business tycoon Anand Mahindra among others lauded Sen for reaching the final and giving his all.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are no failures in life. You either win or you learn. I am sure you've learnt so much from this amazing experience, <a href="https://twitter.com/lakshya_sen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lakshya_sen</a>.<br />
<br />
Wish you the very best for upcoming tournaments. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AllEngland2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllEngland2022</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1505600747861291008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Viktor’s Imperious as a King perhaps, but <a href="https://twitter.com/lakshya_sen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lakshya_sen</a> is a Prince who will be crowned sooner or later…Bravo Lakshya, you made us all proud getting to the final of the world’s oldest badminton tournament… <a href="https://t.co/AqEZg5Lm7i">https://t.co/AqEZg5Lm7i</a></p>
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1505599883650105344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud of you <a href="https://twitter.com/lakshya_sen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lakshya_sen</a> !<br />
Keep going strong, the journey is long! <a href="https://t.co/50ZmUnl4xD">https://t.co/50ZmUnl4xD</a></p>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1505599759146389506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lakshya-sen-joins-prakash-padukone-saina-nehwal-in-elite-list-after-reaching-all-england-open-final-463943">Lakshya Sen joins Prakash Padukone, Saina Nehwal in elite list after reaching All England Open final</a></p>

<p>Sen might have lost the final but his performances in the run-up to the summit clash were sensational as the 20-year-old prodigy stunned some of the best players in the world at present. Sen became only the fifth Indian after the likes of legendary Prakash Padukone, Pullela Gopichand, Saina Nehwal and Prakash Nath to enter the final of the All England Open Badminton Championships.</p>


Ace Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen went down fighting against reigning Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen in the men's singles final of the All England Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Sunday (March 20).

Ace Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen went down fighting against reigning Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen in the men's singles final of the All England Open Badminton Championships 2022 on Sunday (March 20). Axelsen dominated the proceedings right from the start of the final and wrapped it up in straight sets to clinch his second All England men's singles title. Axelsen defeated Sen 21-10, 21-15 in straight sets to lift the prestigious trophy. Despite his heartbreaking loss in the final, Sen was lauded by many for putting up a spirited show against world no.1 Axelsen. The 20-year-old had entered the final after defeating defending champion Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia in the semi-final. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to laud Sen for his spirited show against Axelsen in the final and wished him well for his future. PM Modi said he was confident that Lakshya will scale new heights of success for India in badminton in the near future. "Proud of you @lakshya_sen! You've shown remarkable grit and tenacity. You put up a spirited fight. Best wishes for your future endeavours. I am confident you will keep scaling new heights of success," the Indian Prime Minister said in a tweet. Proud of you @lakshya_sen! You’ve shown remarkable grit and tenacity. You put up a spirited fight. Best wishes for your future endeavours. I am confident you will keep scaling new heights of success. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2022 × Also Read: Viktor Axelsen defeats India's Lakshya Sen in final to clinch men's singles title at All England Open 2022 Apart from PM Modi, several other popular celebrities from all walks of life came together to laud Sen for his brilliant run in the All England Open Badminton Championships this year. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, India's Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and business tycoon Anand Mahindra among others lauded Sen for reaching the final and giving his all. There are no failures in life. You either win or you learn. I am sure you've learnt so much from this amazing experience, @lakshya_sen. Wish you the very best for upcoming tournaments. #AllEngland2022 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) March 20, 2022 × Viktor’s Imperious as a King perhaps, but @lakshya_sen is a Prince who will be crowned sooner or later…Bravo Lakshya, you made us all proud getting to the final of the world’s oldest badminton tournament… https://t.co/AqEZg5Lm7i — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) March 20, 2022 × Proud of you @lakshya_sen ! Keep going strong, the journey is long! https://t.co/50ZmUnl4xD — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) March 20, 2022 × Also Read: Lakshya Sen joins Prakash Padukone, Saina Nehwal in elite list after reaching All England Open final Sen might have lost the final but his performances in the run-up to the summit clash were sensational as the 20-year-old prodigy stunned some of the best players in the world at present. Sen became only the fifth Indian after the likes of legendary Prakash Padukone, Pullela Gopichand, Saina Nehwal and Prakash Nath to enter the final of the All England Open Badminton Championships.

'You've shown remarkable grit': PM Modi lauds Lakshya Sen for spirited fight in All England Open final

29 artefacts have been returned to India by Australia. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspected the antiquities and thanked his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison for taking the initiative to return the antiquities.

Indian PM Modi thanks Morrison after Australia returns 29 artefacts

<p>Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.</p>

<p>"We (Kishida and Modi) confirmed any unilateral change to the status quo by force cannot be forgiven in any region, and it is necessary to seek peaceful resolutions of disputes based on international law," Kishida told reporters after meeting Modi in New Delhi.</p>

<p>The two leaders were meeting to strengthen security amid the Ukraine crisis and improve economic ties between the two nations.</p>

<p>Japan in recent years has supported India's urban infrastructure development and the high-speed railway based on its bullet train technology.</p>

<p>A joint statement pointedly "underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region".</p>

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<p>Kishida's office quoted him saying before meeting Modi that "Russia's aggression against Ukraine is an outrage that undermines the very foundation of the order of the international community, including Asia".</p>

<p>"Such unilateral changes to the status quo are also absolutely unacceptable in the Indo-Pacific region. During this overseas trip (to India and Cambodia) I will engage in exchanges of views with my counterparts about the situation in Ukraine and other matters and urge them to take action," Kishida's office tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ja">これからインドとカンボジアに行ってまいります。 <a href="https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA">https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA</a></p>
— 岸田文雄 (@kishida230) <a href="https://twitter.com/kishida230/status/1504953457563774976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Unlike fellow members of the Quad alliance,&nbsp;Japan, Australia and the United States,&nbsp;India has abstained in three UN votes condemning Moscow's actions, calling only for a halt to the violence.</p>

<p>Ahead of Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese premier since 2017, a Japanese foreign ministry official said Tokyo was "aware" of Delhi's "geographical location and historical ties to Russia".</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi had spoken to PM Kishida on phone in October 2021 soon after he assumed office. Both sides expressed a desire to further strengthen the special strategic and global partnership.</p>

<p>This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.</p>

<p>The annual summit between Prime Minister Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam capital over the amended citizenship law.</p>

<p>The summit could not be held in 2020 as well as in 2021 primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>In 2014, then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced 3.5 trillion yen in investment and financing over five years during a visit to India.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Saturday announced a 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) investment in India over the next five years during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. "We (Kishida and Modi) confirmed any unilateral change to the status quo by force cannot be forgiven in any region, and it is necessary to seek peaceful resolutions of disputes based on international law," Kishida told reporters after meeting Modi in New Delhi. The two leaders were meeting to strengthen security amid the Ukraine crisis and improve economic ties between the two nations. Japan in recent years has supported India's urban infrastructure development and the high-speed railway based on its bullet train technology. A joint statement pointedly "underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region". Kishida's office quoted him saying before meeting Modi that "Russia's aggression against Ukraine is an outrage that undermines the very foundation of the order of the international community, including Asia". "Such unilateral changes to the status quo are also absolutely unacceptable in the Indo-Pacific region. During this overseas trip (to India and Cambodia) I will engage in exchanges of views with my counterparts about the situation in Ukraine and other matters and urge them to take action," Kishida's office tweeted. これからインドとカンボジアに行ってまいります。 https://t.co/WcfwP4WyIA — 岸田文雄 (@kishida230) March 18, 2022 × Unlike fellow members of the Quad alliance, Japan, Australia and the United States, India has abstained in three UN votes condemning Moscow's actions, calling only for a halt to the violence. Ahead of Kishida's visit, the first by a Japanese premier since 2017, a Japanese foreign ministry official said Tokyo was "aware" of Delhi's "geographical location and historical ties to Russia". Prime Minister Modi had spoken to PM Kishida on phone in October 2021 soon after he assumed office. Both sides expressed a desire to further strengthen the special strategic and global partnership. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The annual summit between Prime Minister Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam capital over the amended citizenship law. The summit could not be held in 2020 as well as in 2021 primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2014, then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced 3.5 trillion yen in investment and financing over five years during a visit to India. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan PM Fumio Kishida announces $42 billion investment in India

<p data-attrid="title" data-local-attribute="d3bn" data-ved="2ahUKEwiks-eTm6_2AhX87XMBHd4jCc0Q3B0oAXoECCEQCw">World Wushu Championships&nbsp;gold medallist Sadia Tariq&nbsp;from Srinagar dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi. Sadia is an Indian wushu player who recently won a gold medal for India at the Moscow Wushu Stars&nbsp;event.&nbsp;Sadia is the first Kashmiri girl to win a world championship in Wushu. At 15, Sadia is a two-time Junior National Wushu Championship gold medallist as well.</p>

<p>Sadia received an overwhelming response on her return to Srinagar today. She was lauded by all. Hundreds of young students had gathered in the Gindun park,&nbsp;a recreational park for sportsmen in Srinagar.</p>

<p>She is the first Kashmiri girl to win a world championship in Wushu. She thanked her coaches for training her to achieve such a goal at such a young age. Sadia said her parents are her main inspiration and she got emotional when PM Modi tweeted about her win. Now her only&nbsp;wish is to meet PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to Sadia Tariq on winning the Gold medal at the Moscow Wushu Stars Championship. Her success will inspire many budding athletes. Wishing her the very best for her future endeavours.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1497593763237019655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>''I want to thank everyone here for such a grand event. I got a great welcome in Delhi too. When PM Modi Sir tweeted about my win, I got so emotional that I had tears in my eyes. It was a dream come true and I want to thank PM Modi and now I have a wish to meet him once. '' said Sadia Tariq, World Wushu Champion.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sir, I want to sincerely thank you for congratulating me on my recent achievement. It's a proud moment for our nation and i will definitely continue trying to make my India Proud..</p>
— Sadia Tariq🥊 (@Stariq0089) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stariq0089/status/1497597503104946178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sadia has been fully supported by her family. Her father, Tariq Lone has been a pillar of strength for her. She says all her inspiration comes from her parents. She also says that her coaches have been working day and night for this championship with her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'' I am extremely happy and Proud of my daughter for what she has achieved at this young age. She got a medal for India. Everyone has been continuously&nbsp;calling and congratulating me for her success. People across the country are happy about her win. Although I was worried as when she was there, the war between Russia&nbsp;and Ukraine had started. I am happy that PM Narendra Modi appreciated her win. '' said Tariq Lone, Sadia's Father.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sadia now wants to participate in the Youth Asian games.&nbsp;</p>


World Wushu Championships gold medallist Sadia Tariq from Srinagar dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi. Sadia is an Indian wushu player who recently won a gold medal for India at the Moscow Wushu Stars event.

World Wushu Championships gold medallist Sadia Tariq from Srinagar dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi. Sadia is an Indian wushu player who recently won a gold medal for India at the Moscow Wushu Stars event. Sadia is the first Kashmiri girl to win a world championship in Wushu. At 15, Sadia is a two-time Junior National Wushu Championship gold medallist as well. Sadia received an overwhelming response on her return to Srinagar today. She was lauded by all. Hundreds of young students had gathered in the Gindun park, a recreational park for sportsmen in Srinagar. She is the first Kashmiri girl to win a world championship in Wushu. She thanked her coaches for training her to achieve such a goal at such a young age. Sadia said her parents are her main inspiration and she got emotional when PM Modi tweeted about her win. Now her only wish is to meet PM Modi. Congratulations to Sadia Tariq on winning the Gold medal at the Moscow Wushu Stars Championship. Her success will inspire many budding athletes. Wishing her the very best for her future endeavours. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2022 × ''I want to thank everyone here for such a grand event. I got a great welcome in Delhi too. When PM Modi Sir tweeted about my win, I got so emotional that I had tears in my eyes. It was a dream come true and I want to thank PM Modi and now I have a wish to meet him once. '' said Sadia Tariq, World Wushu Champion. Sir, I want to sincerely thank you for congratulating me on my recent achievement. It's a proud moment for our nation and i will definitely continue trying to make my India Proud.. — Sadia Tariq🥊 (@Stariq0089) February 26, 2022 × Sadia has been fully supported by her family. Her father, Tariq Lone has been a pillar of strength for her. She says all her inspiration comes from her parents. She also says that her coaches have been working day and night for this championship with her. '' I am extremely happy and Proud of my daughter for what she has achieved at this young age. She got a medal for India. Everyone has been continuously calling and congratulating me for her success. People across the country are happy about her win. Although I was worried as when she was there, the war between Russia and Ukraine had started. I am happy that PM Narendra Modi appreciated her win. '' said Tariq Lone, Sadia's Father. Sadia now wants to participate in the Youth Asian games.

World Wushu Championship gold medallist Sadia Tariq dreams of meeting Indian PM Narendra Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his thoughts with the people in the country and abroad in the 'Mann Ki Baat' programme. It was the 86th episode of the monthly radio programme of the prime minister.

Indian PM Modi addresses 86th edition of monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba are expected to hold a virtual summit in early March. The key outcomes of the summit will be a pact on delivery of fertilizers to Nepal and&nbsp;giving go-ahead to railway service between Kurtha-Jayanagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The test runs for the railway service between India's Jayanagar to Nepal's Kurtha has already been conducted. Indian Railway's Konkan railway cooperation is helping Nepal railways in the establishment of the service that will help people from both sides of the border.&nbsp;Meanwhile, under the 5-year fertilizer pact, Nepal aims to fulfill 30% of its annual fertilizer requirement. The talks for the pact have been going on for a long time.</p>

<p>Both the Prime Ministers had met on the sidelines of the Glasgow climate summit last year. That was the first in-person meet between the two sides after Deuba took charge as Nepal PM in July of that year. During that meeting,&nbsp;Nepal had sought fertilizers, covid vaccines from India. Another key focus was the opening of new air routes connecting the two&nbsp;countries. Nepal PM was expected to visit India earlier this year for the Vibrant Gujarat Investor summit but that could not happen due to Omicron covid crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-nepal-agree-on-joint-development-of-cross-border-transmission-lines-456561" hreflang="en">India, Nepal agree on joint development of cross border transmission lines</a></strong></p>

<p>Ties between India and Nepal were frayed under the previous Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli who had come out with a new map of Nepal irking New Delhi. With the change of guard in Kathmandu, both sides are working to improve ties. Nepal's new foreign minister Dr.Narayan Khadka and EAM Jaishankar had met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York a few months ago.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Nepal's Parliament on Sunday ratified the $500 million American grant under Millennium Challenge Cooperation (MCC) compact. In a show of remarkable display of political acumen, PM Deuba was able to keep his ruling coalition intact while also able to fulfill the February 28 deadline given to Washington for ratification of MCC.&nbsp;Projects under the compact include transmission lines between Nepal and India. It is also expected to boost India's energy connectivity initiatives and Nepal's efforts to develop its hydropower sector for exports.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, PM Modi had held a virtual summit with his UAE counterpart. During that summit the much-awaited India UAE free trade agreement was signed.&nbsp; In January, PM Modi had virtually participated in the first India-Central Asia summit, involving leaders of all five&nbsp;central Asian countries.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba are expected to hold a virtual summit in early March. The key outcomes of the summit will be a pact on delivery of fertilizers to Nepal and giving go-ahead to railway service between Kurtha-Jayanagar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba are expected to hold a virtual summit in early March. The key outcomes of the summit will be a pact on delivery of fertilizers to Nepal and giving go-ahead to railway service between Kurtha-Jayanagar. The test runs for the railway service between India's Jayanagar to Nepal's Kurtha has already been conducted. Indian Railway's Konkan railway cooperation is helping Nepal railways in the establishment of the service that will help people from both sides of the border. Meanwhile, under the 5-year fertilizer pact, Nepal aims to fulfill 30% of its annual fertilizer requirement. The talks for the pact have been going on for a long time. Both the Prime Ministers had met on the sidelines of the Glasgow climate summit last year. That was the first in-person meet between the two sides after Deuba took charge as Nepal PM in July of that year. During that meeting, Nepal had sought fertilizers, covid vaccines from India. Another key focus was the opening of new air routes connecting the two countries. Nepal PM was expected to visit India earlier this year for the Vibrant Gujarat Investor summit but that could not happen due to Omicron covid crisis. Also read | India, Nepal agree on joint development of cross border transmission lines Ties between India and Nepal were frayed under the previous Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli who had come out with a new map of Nepal irking New Delhi. With the change of guard in Kathmandu, both sides are working to improve ties. Nepal's new foreign minister Dr.Narayan Khadka and EAM Jaishankar had met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York a few months ago. Meanwhile, Nepal's Parliament on Sunday ratified the $500 million American grant under Millennium Challenge Cooperation (MCC) compact. In a show of remarkable display of political acumen, PM Deuba was able to keep his ruling coalition intact while also able to fulfill the February 28 deadline given to Washington for ratification of MCC. Projects under the compact include transmission lines between Nepal and India. It is also expected to boost India's energy connectivity initiatives and Nepal's efforts to develop its hydropower sector for exports. Earlier this month, PM Modi had held a virtual summit with his UAE counterpart. During that summit the much-awaited India UAE free trade agreement was signed. In January, PM Modi had virtually participated in the first India-Central Asia summit, involving leaders of all five central Asian countries.

PM Modi, Nepal PM Deuba virtual summit in March

India and the United Arabs Emirates signed a historic trade deal. Both countries eye a $100 billion in annual trade. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Dubai Expo 2020 during the virtual summit.

India & UAE sign historic trade deal, eye $100 billion in annual trade

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual summit with Abu Dhabi crown prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during which India-UAE free trade agreement was signed.

PM Modi holds India-UAE summit with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, free trade pact signed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a virtual summit with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan today (February 18, 2022). The two leaders are likely to discuss bilateral cooperation and international issues of mutual interest.

PM Modi to hold India-UAE summit with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince virtually

"BJP began winning after losing again and again. When we win, we try to connect to grassroots and leave no stone unturned in winning hearts," says Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an big interview before assembly elections in 5 states of the country.

Big Interview: BJP tries to leave no stone unturned in winning hearts, says Indian PM Narendra Modi

Sri Lanka on Monday approved to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with India to introduce a framework for personal identity verification of the people. The government of India had given its agreement to the proposal during the bilateral talks between the Sri Lankan President and the Prime Minister of India held in December 2019.

Sri Lanka govt to sign MoU with India for unitary digital identity project

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in the Lok Sabha in the ongoing Budget Session of the Parliament.

Blind opposition is a disrespect to democracy, says Indian PM Narendra Modi in Parliament

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Mutual cooperation between India & Central Asia necessary for regional security, says PM Modi

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India-Central Asia Summit: We share concerns on regional security, says Indian PM Modi

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Tamil Lawmakers from Sri Lanka have written a letter to India's PM Narendra Modi asking for help. They're seeking his intervention to implement a 'contentious amendment' which ensures their rights. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the ‘State of the World’ special address at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Davos Agenda 2022 Summit via video conference,

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China has been using different tactics at the border areas over the years. From aerial incursions into Taiwan’s defence zone to unfurling flag at Galwan valley, China’s aggressive approach continues in border and territorial issues. All of this comes at a time when Xi Jinping led government rolled out a new ‘border law’. China’s National People’s Congress passed the law last year which said that PLA shall take measures to strengthen the border defence, support economic and social development in border areas. Among other things, the law allows PLA to work closely with civilians living near the border. The law can affect the neighbouring countries of China. It is suspected that China may have stalled negotiations with India over the LAC standoff for the border law to be implemented. China shares nearly 22,000 km border land with 14 other countries. China is yet to finalise border agreements with India and Bhutan.

Explained: China’s border law & how India, other neighboring countries are affected

<p>Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday expressed regret after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had to cut short his visit to the state, but asserted that there was no security lapse</p>

<p>Modi, who landed in Bathinda and had to take the road route to Hussainiwala in Ferozepur because of inclement weather, was stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes due to a blockade by some protesters, an incident the Union Home Ministry described as a "major lapse" in his security.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/major-lapse-in-indian-pm-narendra-modis-security-convoy-stuck-on-a-flyover-for-20-minutes-442397" hreflang="en">Major lapse in Indian PM's security, convoy stuck on a flyover for 20 minutes</a></strong></p>

<p>The CM said the entire incident will be probed and denied any security lapse or situation of any attack.</p>

<p>There was a sudden change in the PM's travel plan from Bathinda to Ferozepur and everything was handled by central agencies, he told reporters.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes in Punjab's Bathinda, a major security lapse, says government <a href="https://t.co/3hCNm764Ak">pic.twitter.com/3hCNm764Ak</a></p>
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<p>"It is wrong to say that there was a security lapse," the CM said, stressing that the Punjab Police had limited role.</p>

<p>"The prime minister was to visit for the inauguration (of development projects) and address a political rally. We regret that he had to return due to the blockade en route," Channi told reporters.</p>

<p>"After all, he is the prime minister of the country. We respect him. There is a democratic system and federal system," said Channi.</p>

<p>"We regret that he had to go back and we are pained. We respect our prime minister," the CM said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pms-security-lapse-bjp-slams-congress-over-modi-ji-hows-the-josh-tweet-442447" hreflang="en">PM's security lapse: BJP slams Congress over 'Modi ji, How's the Josh?' tweet</a></strong></p>

<p>The Punjab CM said some agitators who had gathered on the road previous night were removed.</p>

<p>But if someone suddenly came during the day, it does not mean this posed any danger, asserted Channi, saying farmers had also been protesting for over a year at Delhi's borders but they did not harm anyone, apparently referring to the stir against the central farm laws, which were withdrawn last year.</p>

<p>At the same time, he said, "There were 70,000 chairs which had been put up at the Ferozepur public rally venue of the BJP, but only 700 turned up (for the BJP event), what can I do in this??</p>

<p>Replying to another question, Channi said he did not say that there wasn't enough gathering in the rally and that could be the reason (for his return).</p>

<p>When asked that the Centre has sought a report into the security lapse, Channi replied, "The entire incident will be probed."</p>

<p>When asked if the Punjab DGP had given clearance for the route for the PM to travel, Channi said though using road route is a joint decision but police role had been made limited and everything was being handled by the SPG, IB and other central agencies.</p>

<p>Seating arrangement for dignitaries at the function in Ferozepur was even decided by them, he said.</p>

<p>"If agitators suddenly turn up, what will you say, you will have to say give alternative route or wait for some time before they are cleared. But the prime minister decided to return," said Channi.</p>

<p>When a reporter asked who were the officials at the Bathinda airport who were reportedly told by the prime minister that they should thank Channi as his life was saved in the situation, the CM replied, "If he (PM) has said something in anger or with political thought, I don't want to make any comment."</p>

<p>"However, I want to say one thing that I would have spilled my own blood before any harm to him, this is the spirit of Punjabis," said Channi, adding that a Punjabi will prefer to die rather than attack the guest visiting the state.</p>

<p>When specifically asked that if the PM is to travel by road or other route, the responsibility of securing that lies with the state agencies, Channi said the main control was of the SPG and the IB.</p>

<p>The Home Ministry was directly involved, he said, adding that the Punjab government did not have much role.</p>

<p>He said this issue should not be unnecessarily politicised. "Farmers have been sitting peacefully at Delhi's borders. How can I fire bullets at them and use lathis against them to remove them," he said.</p>

<p>In a statement, the Union Home Ministry had earlier in the day said after a "major security lapse" in the prime minister's travel in Punjab, his convoy decided to return.</p>

<p>The ministry also asked the Punjab government to fix responsibility for the lapse and take strict action, the statement said.<br />
Modi on Wednesday returned without dedicating development projects and addressing a rally in the poll-bound Punjab.</p>


Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday expressed regret after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had to cut short his visit to the state, but asserted that there was no security lapse Modi, who landed in Bathinda and had to take the road route to Hussainiwala in Ferozepur because of inclement weather, was stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes due to a blockade by some protesters, an incident the Union Home Ministry described as a "major lapse" in his security.

Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Wednesday expressed regret after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had to cut short his visit to the state, but asserted that there was no security lapse Modi, who landed in Bathinda and had to take the road route to Hussainiwala in Ferozepur because of inclement weather, was stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes due to a blockade by some protesters, an incident the Union Home Ministry described as a "major lapse" in his security. Also read | Major lapse in Indian PM's security, convoy stuck on a flyover for 20 minutes The CM said the entire incident will be probed and denied any security lapse or situation of any attack. There was a sudden change in the PM's travel plan from Bathinda to Ferozepur and everything was handled by central agencies, he told reporters. Indian PM @narendramodi stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes in Punjab's Bathinda, a major security lapse, says government pic.twitter.com/3hCNm764Ak — WION (@WIONews) January 5, 2022 × "It is wrong to say that there was a security lapse," the CM said, stressing that the Punjab Police had limited role. "The prime minister was to visit for the inauguration (of development projects) and address a political rally. We regret that he had to return due to the blockade en route," Channi told reporters. "After all, he is the prime minister of the country. We respect him. There is a democratic system and federal system," said Channi. "We regret that he had to go back and we are pained. We respect our prime minister," the CM said. Also read | PM's security lapse: BJP slams Congress over 'Modi ji, How's the Josh?' tweet The Punjab CM said some agitators who had gathered on the road previous night were removed. But if someone suddenly came during the day, it does not mean this posed any danger, asserted Channi, saying farmers had also been protesting for over a year at Delhi's borders but they did not harm anyone, apparently referring to the stir against the central farm laws, which were withdrawn last year. At the same time, he said, "There were 70,000 chairs which had been put up at the Ferozepur public rally venue of the BJP, but only 700 turned up (for the BJP event), what can I do in this?? Replying to another question, Channi said he did not say that there wasn't enough gathering in the rally and that could be the reason (for his return). When asked that the Centre has sought a report into the security lapse, Channi replied, "The entire incident will be probed." When asked if the Punjab DGP had given clearance for the route for the PM to travel, Channi said though using road route is a joint decision but police role had been made limited and everything was being handled by the SPG, IB and other central agencies. Seating arrangement for dignitaries at the function in Ferozepur was even decided by them, he said. "If agitators suddenly turn up, what will you say, you will have to say give alternative route or wait for some time before they are cleared. But the prime minister decided to return," said Channi. When a reporter asked who were the officials at the Bathinda airport who were reportedly told by the prime minister that they should thank Channi as his life was saved in the situation, the CM replied, "If he (PM) has said something in anger or with political thought, I don't want to make any comment." "However, I want to say one thing that I would have spilled my own blood before any harm to him, this is the spirit of Punjabis," said Channi, adding that a Punjabi will prefer to die rather than attack the guest visiting the state. When specifically asked that if the PM is to travel by road or other route, the responsibility of securing that lies with the state agencies, Channi said the main control was of the SPG and the IB. The Home Ministry was directly involved, he said, adding that the Punjab government did not have much role. He said this issue should not be unnecessarily politicised. "Farmers have been sitting peacefully at Delhi's borders. How can I fire bullets at them and use lathis against them to remove them," he said. In a statement, the Union Home Ministry had earlier in the day said after a "major security lapse" in the prime minister's travel in Punjab, his convoy decided to return. The ministry also asked the Punjab government to fix responsibility for the lapse and take strict action, the statement said. Modi on Wednesday returned without dedicating development projects and addressing a rally in the poll-bound Punjab.

Punjab CM expresses regret, denies security lapse after PM Modi cuts short visit

<p>Nepal’s CPN (Maoist Centre) has pledged to fight for the protection of disputed lands including&nbsp;Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh&nbsp;with India, announcing the amendment in a political document released last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A week-long 8th General Convention of the CPN (Maoist Centre) has concluded, selecting 236 Central Committee(CC) members and endorsing a political document tabled by party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Monday, Dahal presented his political report titled&nbsp;“The Path to Socialism in the 21st Century”&nbsp;before the seven-member closed session.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bimstec-secretary-general-lekphell-on-4-day-visit-to-nepal-appreciates-nepals-contribution-442388" hreflang="en">BIMSTEC Sec Gen on 4-day visit to Nepal, appreciates Nepal’s contribution</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, the party included a few lines demanding the “government to strengthen the spirit of nationalism by including the complete map passed by the federal parliament in the curriculum.”</p>

<p>This line has been included while amending the political report of the Maoists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This General Convention makes a special appeal to the Government of Nepal, all the political parties of the country and the stakeholders to repeal all the unequal treaties and agreements including the treaty of 1950 and to take necessary steps in the new treaty as required on the basis of universal equality and mutual benefit,” the document added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-grounds-six-made-in-china-planes-calls-them-liability-442288" hreflang="en">Nepal grounds six Made-in-China planes, calls them liability</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, the party has also demanded the Government of Nepal to take diplomatic initiative for action and compensation to those involved in the Darchula incident where a Nepalese man was washed away in the Mahakali river along the Indian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dahal in his document has outlined the Nepali way to achieve socialism in the 21st century. He added that the party should strive to ensure identity-based federalism from three fronts,&nbsp;street, parliament, and the government.</p>

<p>The amendments in the document comes&nbsp;just days before Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s visit to India. The PM is scheduled&nbsp;to attend the 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' and hold meetings with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in November, a similar statement was made by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oil during his party CPN-UML convention. He vowed to fight for Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh if he returns to power.</p>


Nepal’s CPN (Maoist Centre) has pledged to fight for the protection of disputed lands including Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh with India, announcing the amendment in a political document released last week.

Nepal’s CPN (Maoist Centre) has pledged to fight for the protection of disputed lands including Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh with India, announcing the amendment in a political document released last week. A week-long 8th General Convention of the CPN (Maoist Centre) has concluded, selecting 236 Central Committee(CC) members and endorsing a political document tabled by party Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’. Earlier on Monday, Dahal presented his political report titled “The Path to Socialism in the 21st Century” before the seven-member closed session. Also read | BIMSTEC Sec Gen on 4-day visit to Nepal, appreciates Nepal’s contribution On Wednesday, the party included a few lines demanding the “government to strengthen the spirit of nationalism by including the complete map passed by the federal parliament in the curriculum.” This line has been included while amending the political report of the Maoists. “This General Convention makes a special appeal to the Government of Nepal, all the political parties of the country and the stakeholders to repeal all the unequal treaties and agreements including the treaty of 1950 and to take necessary steps in the new treaty as required on the basis of universal equality and mutual benefit,” the document added. Also read | Nepal grounds six Made-in-China planes, calls them liability In addition, the party has also demanded the Government of Nepal to take diplomatic initiative for action and compensation to those involved in the Darchula incident where a Nepalese man was washed away in the Mahakali river along the Indian border. Dahal in his document has outlined the Nepali way to achieve socialism in the 21st century. He added that the party should strive to ensure identity-based federalism from three fronts, street, parliament, and the government. The amendments in the document comes just days before Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s visit to India. The PM is scheduled to attend the 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit' and hold meetings with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. Earlier in November, a similar statement was made by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oil during his party CPN-UML convention. He vowed to fight for Kalapani, Limpiyadhura, and Lipulekh if he returns to power.

Nepal Maoist party pledges to fight for disputed land with India

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