Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday left for India after holding a two-day informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the central Chinese city, Wuhan.

Modi had arrived in China on Thursday for the unprecedented informal summit with Xi.

The prime minister held one-on-one talks with Xi which is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

The two leaders exchanged views on "solidifying" the India-China relationship and decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding.

They recognised terrorism as a common threat and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism.

Modi also offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year, a proposal which elicited a positive response from the Chinese president.

The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then.

This is the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10.&nbsp

Modi was seen off by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, Kong Xuanyou and Chinese Ambassador to India, Luo Zhaohui and other officials.&nbsp

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The prime minister held one-on-one talks with Xi which is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday left for India after holding a two-day informal summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the central Chinese city, Wuhan. Modi had arrived in China on Thursday for the unprecedented informal summit with Xi. The prime minister held one-on-one talks with Xi which is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year. The two leaders exchanged views on "solidifying" the India-China relationship and decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding. They recognised terrorism as a common threat and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism. Modi also offered to host the next informal summit with Xi in India next year, a proposal which elicited a positive response from the Chinese president. The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then. This is the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10. Modi was seen off by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, Kong Xuanyou and Chinese Ambassador to India, Luo Zhaohui and other officials. China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Delhi from Wuhan. pic.twitter.com/gDxjIyy3Md — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 ×

Modi leaves for India after informal summit with Xi in China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding, Foreign Secretary Vijay&nbsp;Gokhale said.

"PM Modi and President Xi also 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,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Gokhale added.

On the India-China boundary subject, Gokhale said Prime Minister Modi and President Xi decided that they will issue a strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications between them.

"The two leaders underscored that it is important to maintain peace along the India-China border region and decided that they will issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications between the two militaries in order to build trust and understanding. Information sharing arrangements will be improved to prevent and manage situations along the border areas," he said.

His remarks came at the end of the 'heart-to-heart' summit between Modi and Xi which is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam 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.

They agreed to strengthen greater strategic communications between the two sides, he said.

The two leaders recognised terrorism as the common threat and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism, the top Indian diplomat said.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

On the India-China boundary subject, Gokhale said Prime Minister Modi and President Xi decided that they will issue a strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications between them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have decided to issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications and to build trust and understanding, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. "PM Modi and President Xi also 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. On the India-China boundary subject, Gokhale said Prime Minister Modi and President Xi decided that they will issue a strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications between them. "The two leaders underscored that it is important to maintain peace along the India-China border region and decided that they will issue strategic guidance to their respective militaries to strengthen communications between the two militaries in order to build trust and understanding. Information sharing arrangements will be improved to prevent and manage situations along the border areas," he said. His remarks came at the end of the 'heart-to-heart' summit between Modi and Xi which is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam 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. They agreed to strengthen greater strategic communications between the two sides, he said. The two leaders recognised terrorism as the common threat and committed to cooperate further on counter-terrorism, the top Indian diplomat said. (With agency inputs)

Modi, Xi agree to issue strategic guidance to their militaries to strengthen communications

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping walked together at the picturesque East Lake here on Saturday.

On the second and last day of the informal summit, the two leaders were seen actively engaging with each other while walking by the lake.

Also, no aides were present with the two leaders.

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar captured the moment."Taking India-China relations on a forward-looking path, charting the future direction of the relationship! PM @narendramodi and Chinese President Xi take a walk together along the East Lake in Wuhan today morning," he wrote.

After the walk, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi will take a boat ride at the East Lake.The East Lake, a large freshwater lake in Wuhan city, is the largest urban lake in China.

It is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, with over a million visiting the lake annually.

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This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President in honour of Prime Minister Modi.At an event on Friday, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi were welcomed by a live band in Wuhan city playing an instrumental rendition of 1982 Bollywood hit song from `Yeh Vaada Raha` - `Tu, tu hai wahi, dil ne jise apna kaha.`

The Prime Minister, who is currently on a two-day visit to China, will depart for India on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

The two leaders yesterday held extensive talks amid the warmth and bonhomie.

They started the summit talks at the Hubei Provincial Museum where Xi took Modi around introducing the historic artefacts.

The museum walk scheduled for 20 minutes lasted over 40 minutes after which they began one-on-one talks.

The summit was stated to be unique as the two leaders have no pressure and obligation to strike any agreements nor make big announcements but focus mainly on candid discussions on solutions to some of the vexed problems like the boundary question and other issues.

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Their one-on-one talks were followed by delegation-level interaction with six top officials each from both sides took part, giving an impression that some of the critical issues were on the table for discussion.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and Indian Ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale were present in the meeting.

Xi headed a high-powered delegation which included Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Ding Xuexiang, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Yang Jiechi and State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi.

The delegation talks which apparently focussed on some of the most contentious issues lasted for over two hours overshooting scheduled half an hour, hinting the seriousness of the discussions, officials said.

Later Xi hosted a banquet in the honour of Modi at East Lake.&nbsp;

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Taking India-China relations on a forward-looking path, charting the future direction of the relationship! PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and Chinese President Xi take a walk together along the East Lake in Wuhan today morning. <a href="https://t.co/KzBSbgR4dB">pic.twitter.com/KzBSbgR4dB</a>
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&nbsp;

Today's talks included a walk around the famous East Lake here and an hour-long boat ride.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping walked together at the picturesque East Lake here on Saturday. On the second and last day of the informal summit, the two leaders were seen actively engaging with each other while walking by the lake. Also, no aides were present with the two leaders. #WATCH China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping take a walk along East Lake in Wuhan. pic.twitter.com/2v4nzR41da — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 × The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar captured the moment."Taking India-China relations on a forward-looking path, charting the future direction of the relationship! PM @narendramodi and Chinese President Xi take a walk together along the East Lake in Wuhan today morning," he wrote. After the walk, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi will take a boat ride at the East Lake.The East Lake, a large freshwater lake in Wuhan city, is the largest urban lake in China. It is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, with over a million visiting the lake annually. China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping inside a house boat in Wuhan's East Lake. pic.twitter.com/liYCxlRiXA — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 × This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President in honour of Prime Minister Modi.At an event on Friday, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi were welcomed by a live band in Wuhan city playing an instrumental rendition of 1982 Bollywood hit song from `Yeh Vaada Raha` - `Tu, tu hai wahi, dil ne jise apna kaha.` The Prime Minister, who is currently on a two-day visit to China, will depart for India on Saturday afternoon. The two leaders yesterday held extensive talks amid the warmth and bonhomie. They started the summit talks at the Hubei Provincial Museum where Xi took Modi around introducing the historic artefacts. The museum walk scheduled for 20 minutes lasted over 40 minutes after which they began one-on-one talks. The summit was stated to be unique as the two leaders have no pressure and obligation to strike any agreements nor make big announcements but focus mainly on candid discussions on solutions to some of the vexed problems like the boundary question and other issues. China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping inside a house boat in Wuhan's East Lake. pic.twitter.com/2VrpcPXz30 — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 × Their one-on-one talks were followed by delegation-level interaction with six top officials each from both sides took part, giving an impression that some of the critical issues were on the table for discussion. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and Indian Ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale were present in the meeting. Xi headed a high-powered delegation which included Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Ding Xuexiang, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Yang Jiechi and State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi. The delegation talks which apparently focussed on some of the most contentious issues lasted for over two hours overshooting scheduled half an hour, hinting the seriousness of the discussions, officials said. Later Xi hosted a banquet in the honour of Modi at East Lake. Taking India-China relations on a forward-looking path, charting the future direction of the relationship! PM @narendramodi and Chinese President Xi take a walk together along the East Lake in Wuhan today morning. pic.twitter.com/KzBSbgR4dB — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) April 28, 2018 ×

Day 2 of PM Modi-Xi informal summit starts with stroll by lake in Wuhan

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

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday accused Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led state government of "pocketing" the funds pumped into the state by the Centre.

"Under the 13th Finance Commission, Karnataka got Rs. 88,583 crore, which was increased to Rs. 2, 19,506 crore under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. All the money sent by the Modi government has been pocketed by the Siddaramaiah government," Shah was quoted as saying by news agency ANI while addressing a public rally at Koppal.&nbsp;

Shah said that state under the Siddaramaiah government had become one with widespread farmer suicides, atrocities against women and unemployment.

"The people of Karnataka do not have electricity supply&nbsp;nor&nbsp;jobs to sustain a livelihood, but their chief minister wears a watch worth Rs. 40 lakh. This indicates how much corruption the government is involved in," he said.

Launching a scathing attack on the incumbent chief minister, Shah claimed that the former was 'running away' and looking for a safer seat to contest in the upcoming assembly polls.

"The Congress is dependent on Siddaramaiah in this election. However, he himself is running away from the Chamundeshwari to the Badami assembly constituency to escape to a safer seat. The only achievements of the Siddaramaiah governement in the state have been a rapid increase in corruption, rapes and farmer suicides. After all this, Rahul Gandhi still thinks Siddaramaiah will win the election for him. How can anyone who has run away from his own seat win elections for his party" he said according to ANI.&nbsp;

On the second day of his two-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka, the BJP Chief is expected to address public rallies in three different regions. He is also expected to visit the Basawesawara Aikya Sthala in Kudala Sangama, and Siddhesvara Temple in Haveri district.

Karnataka will go to polls on May 12 to elect representatives to the 225-member state assembly.

Highlighting corruption prevalent in the state, Shah claimed that Karnataka under the Siddaramaiah government had become one with widespread farmer suicides, atrocities against women and unemployment.

BJP president Amit Shah on Friday accused Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led state government of "pocketing" the funds pumped into the state by the Centre. "Under the 13th Finance Commission, Karnataka got Rs. 88,583 crore, which was increased to Rs. 2, 19,506 crore under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. All the money sent by the Modi government has been pocketed by the Siddaramaiah government," Shah was quoted as saying by news agency ANI while addressing a public rally at Koppal. Shah said that state under the Siddaramaiah government had become one with widespread farmer suicides, atrocities against women and unemployment. "The people of Karnataka do not have electricity supply nor jobs to sustain a livelihood, but their chief minister wears a watch worth Rs. 40 lakh. This indicates how much corruption the government is involved in," he said. Launching a scathing attack on the incumbent chief minister, Shah claimed that the former was 'running away' and looking for a safer seat to contest in the upcoming assembly polls. "The Congress is dependent on Siddaramaiah in this election. However, he himself is running away from the Chamundeshwari to the Badami assembly constituency to escape to a safer seat. The only achievements of the Siddaramaiah governement in the state have been a rapid increase in corruption, rapes and farmer suicides. After all this, Rahul Gandhi still thinks Siddaramaiah will win the election for him. How can anyone who has run away from his own seat win elections for his party" he said according to ANI. On the second day of his two-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka, the BJP Chief is expected to address public rallies in three different regions. He is also expected to visit the Basawesawara Aikya Sthala in Kudala Sangama, and Siddhesvara Temple in Haveri district. Karnataka will go to polls on May 12 to elect representatives to the 225-member state assembly.

Amit Shah charges Siddaramaiah government with 'pocketing' Centre's funds

Chinese state media has praised the tone of the informal summit so far between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jingping.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The overseas edition of the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily said in a front-page commentary on Saturday "two great countries ought to have great cooperation", and showed a large picture of the two leaders shaking hands.

"There is the reason to believe that this Wuhan meeting will increase mutual trust, manage and control disputes, deepen cooperation and lead to a new phase in China-India relations," it said.

"It is quite clear that strategic agreement between the two countries far exceeds the specific differences, and the need for cooperation far exceeds local friction," it said.

Modi will take an hour-long boat ride with his host Xi on Saturday, the final day of an ice-breaking trip both are hoping will lead to better ties after a year of strains.

Modi is spending only about 24 hours in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war between the Asian nations.

Billed by both sides as an informal meeting rather than a summit, with none of the pomp and ceremony of a state visit such as 21-gun salutes, the two men held talks on Friday that lasted far longer than expected.

Modi will take a walk around a guesthouse with Xi on Saturday, then an hour-long boat trip on a lake followed by lunch, before the meeting ends, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry.

Both countries are expected to brief reporters at the end.&nbsp;

Despite the rhetoric, which on Friday included Modi inviting Xi to India for a similar informal summit next year, the nations' differences are significant.

As well as disputes over stretches of a 3,500 km (2,200 miles) border, they are bumping up against each other in the Indian Ocean and squabbling over Xi's signature Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

India signalled as recently as Tuesday its opposition to the grand trade and transport plan because one of its branches runs through Pakistani-administered Kashmir, which India claims.

India has long been suspicious of China's traditionally close ties with Pakistan.

For its part, China has been concerned about U.S. efforts to draw India into a maritime "quad" of democracies, including Japan and Australia.

China is also suspicious of India's hosting of the Dalai Lama and other exiled Tibetans.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

The overseas edition of the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily said in a front page commentary on Saturday "two great countries ought to have great cooperation", and showed a large picture of the two leaders shaking hands.

Chinese state media has praised the tone of the informal summit so far between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jingping. The overseas edition of the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily said in a front-page commentary on Saturday "two great countries ought to have great cooperation", and showed a large picture of the two leaders shaking hands. "There is the reason to believe that this Wuhan meeting will increase mutual trust, manage and control disputes, deepen cooperation and lead to a new phase in China-India relations," it said. "It is quite clear that strategic agreement between the two countries far exceeds the specific differences, and the need for cooperation far exceeds local friction," it said. Modi will take an hour-long boat ride with his host Xi on Saturday, the final day of an ice-breaking trip both are hoping will lead to better ties after a year of strains. Modi is spending only about 24 hours in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war between the Asian nations. Billed by both sides as an informal meeting rather than a summit, with none of the pomp and ceremony of a state visit such as 21-gun salutes, the two men held talks on Friday that lasted far longer than expected. Modi will take a walk around a guesthouse with Xi on Saturday, then an hour-long boat trip on a lake followed by lunch, before the meeting ends, according to the Indian Foreign Ministry. Both countries are expected to brief reporters at the end. Despite the rhetoric, which on Friday included Modi inviting Xi to India for a similar informal summit next year, the nations' differences are significant. As well as disputes over stretches of a 3,500 km (2,200 miles) border, they are bumping up against each other in the Indian Ocean and squabbling over Xi's signature Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. India signalled as recently as Tuesday its opposition to the grand trade and transport plan because one of its branches runs through Pakistani-administered Kashmir, which India claims. India has long been suspicious of China's traditionally close ties with Pakistan. For its part, China has been concerned about U.S. efforts to draw India into a maritime "quad" of democracies, including Japan and Australia. China is also suspicious of India's hosting of the Dalai Lama and other exiled Tibetans. (With inputs from Reuters)

Chinese state media praises tone of informal summit between Modi and Xi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said he held "extensive and fruitful" talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their first round of two-day informal summit at the&nbsp;picturesque Wuhan city.&nbsp;

"I am very pleased to meet with President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. We conducted extensive and fruitful talks and exchanged opinions on strengthening India-China relations and other international issues," Modi said in a post in the popular Chinese social media Weibo, where he has 1,83,112 followers.&nbsp;

"Thank you, President Xi Jinping, for the wonderful gesture of personally accompanying me in the Hubei Provincial Museum. The Museum is home to great facets of Chinese history and culture," Modi was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said he held "extensive and fruitful" talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their first round of two-day informal summit at the picturesque Wuhan city. "I am very pleased to meet with President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. We conducted extensive and fruitful talks and exchanged opinions on strengthening India-China relations and other international issues," Modi said in a post in the popular Chinese social media Weibo, where he has 1,83,112 followers. "Thank you, President Xi Jinping, for the wonderful gesture of personally accompanying me in the Hubei Provincial Museum. The Museum is home to great facets of Chinese history and culture," Modi was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Modi and Xi are due to conclude their unprecedented informal summit today, seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year.

Held 'extensive, fruitful' talks with Xi, says Modi in Chinese social media Weibo

After resuming the Day 2 of their `informal talks` with a walk along the East Lake here today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping enjoyed a boat ride.

On the second and last day of the informal summit, the two leaders were seen riding on a houseboat and chatting over tea - a `chai pe charcha` moment.

The East Lake, a large freshwater lake in Wuhan city, is the largest urban lake in China. It is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, with over a million visiting the lake annually.

This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President in honour of Prime Minister Modi.Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to China to participate in an unprecedented `informal` summit with President Xi, which is expected to reset the bilateral ties between the two Asian giants, which took a hit post the two-month-long Doklam standoff last year.

Modi will leave for India on Saturday.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

On the second and last day of the informal summit, the two leaders were seen riding on a houseboat and chatting over tea - a `chai pe charcha` moment.

After resuming the Day 2 of their `informal talks` with a walk along the East Lake here today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping enjoyed a boat ride. On the second and last day of the informal summit, the two leaders were seen riding on a houseboat and chatting over tea - a `chai pe charcha` moment. The East Lake, a large freshwater lake in Wuhan city, is the largest urban lake in China. It is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, with over a million visiting the lake annually. This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President in honour of Prime Minister Modi.Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to China to participate in an unprecedented `informal` summit with President Xi, which is expected to reset the bilateral ties between the two Asian giants, which took a hit post the two-month-long Doklam standoff last year. Modi will leave for India on Saturday. #WATCH China: Prime Minister Narendra Modi & Chinese President Xi Jinping have tea after a walk along East Lake in Wuhan. pic.twitter.com/5BuROg31Cg — ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2018 ×

PM Modi-Xi's 'chai pe charcha' on Wuhan lake

Foreign Secretary Vijay K Gokhale on Saturday said that Chinese President Xi Jinping has seen a number of Indian films, including Bollywood and regional.

In a bid to cooperate in promoting Indian films in China, more Indian films should come to China and vice-versa, he added.&nbsp

"The proposals forwarded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi included moving ahead to find ways to collaborate in terms of entertainment including films. It would be a good idea to expand this. More Indian films should come to China and vice-versa," Gokhale was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.&nbsp

Terming India and China as engines of economic growth, he said both are focussing on the importance of building an open, multipolar, pluralist and a participatory global economic order. The development of India and China can contribute to the elimination of poverty and inequality, Gokhale said.

The two sides also agreed to expand their cooperation in global healthcare, disaster risks and reduction and mitigation and ushering in digital empowerment.

On the informal summit, Gokhale said, "This is a new way of communication that the leaders are trying. President Xi hasn't hosted any foreign leader outside capital Beijing. The two leaders said the informal meeting was candid and helped in boosting strategic ties."

Both leaders also talked about the importance of balanced and sustainable trade ties between India and China. They discussed at length over how to promote culture and greater people-to-people connect between two nations. 
&nbsp

India and China agreed to expand their cooperation in global healthcare, disaster risks and reduction and mitigation and ushering in digital empowerment

Foreign Secretary Vijay K Gokhale on Saturday said that Chinese President Xi Jinping has seen a number of Indian films, including Bollywood and regional. In a bid to cooperate in promoting Indian films in China, more Indian films should come to China and vice-versa, he added. "The proposals forwarded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi included moving ahead to find ways to collaborate in terms of entertainment including films. It would be a good idea to expand this. More Indian films should come to China and vice-versa," Gokhale was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Terming India and China as engines of economic growth, he said both are focussing on the importance of building an open, multipolar, pluralist and a participatory global economic order. The development of India and China can contribute to the elimination of poverty and inequality, Gokhale said. The two sides also agreed to expand their cooperation in global healthcare, disaster risks and reduction and mitigation and ushering in digital empowerment. On the informal summit, Gokhale said, "This is a new way of communication that the leaders are trying. President Xi hasn't hosted any foreign leader outside capital Beijing. The two leaders said the informal meeting was candid and helped in boosting strategic ties." Both leaders also talked about the importance of balanced and sustainable trade ties between India and China. They discussed at length over how to promote culture and greater people-to-people connect between two nations.

President Xi has seen a number of Indian films: Foreign Secretary Gokhale

Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-wuhan-for-two-day-informal-summit-with-xi-jinping-133066">arrived at picturesque Wuhan city</a> in central China, at 12:30am on Friday, ahead of his much anticipated informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-summit-all-about-the-indo-sino-ties-from-past-to-present-133147">both India and China</a> to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's 73-day Doklam stand-off.

"In the informal summit the objective is that both of the leaders talk with each other to the maximum. There is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-no-set-agenda-for-modi-xi-talks-at-wuhan-as-many-bilateral-issues-to-be-discussed-133065">no fixed agenda</a> to this. There will be no agreements or MoUs signed," India's ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, said.

We want to give both the leaders and environment where both of them may talk to each other specifically, he added.

Prime Minister Modi will commence his meetings with Chinese President Xi at 3:30pm on Friday at the Hubei Provincial Museum. After touring the museum for about an hour, the two leaders, accompanied by six top officials from each side, will hold talks at the sprawling East Lake Guest House, where Xi is staying.

This will be followed by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/modi-xi-all-set-for-heart-to-heart-summit-133136">leaders' walk</a>. Dinner will be hosted by Chinese President Xi at the guest house in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-wuhan-the-venue-for-informal-modi-xi-meet-132911">central Wuhan</a>.

"Indians should see this as a very sincere effort on the path of improving their relationship. It is in our national interest to succeed. There is a very strong sense that the India-China factor can bring a lot of stability. Asia would welcome the news of the informal summit as well as India," India's former foreign secretary S Jaishankar said.

On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake. This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President.

"One of the main objectives of the informal summit is discussion between the two leaders. Otherwise the objective is to give opportunity to the two leaders to speak to each other. They might have a walk in the park, they might go for boating in East Lake in Wuhan and thereby discussing some of the most important issues from the world," said Bambawale.

"When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues," he said, adding, "India, China will be setting a new trend with the informal meeting."

No joint statement or communique will be issued after the informal talks.

According to the sources, the informal talks will be broad-based and over arching and no specific issues will be discussed. The idea is to open strategic communication channel at the highest level.

On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at picturesque Wuhan city in central China, at 12:30am on Friday, ahead of his much anticipated informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting comes in the backdrop of the efforts made by both India and China to move past the tensions, which rose out of last year's 73-day Doklam stand-off. "In the informal summit the objective is that both of the leaders talk with each other to the maximum. There is no fixed agenda to this. There will be no agreements or MoUs signed," India's ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, said. We want to give both the leaders and environment where both of them may talk to each other specifically, he added. Prime Minister Modi will commence his meetings with Chinese President Xi at 3:30pm on Friday at the Hubei Provincial Museum. After touring the museum for about an hour, the two leaders, accompanied by six top officials from each side, will hold talks at the sprawling East Lake Guest House, where Xi is staying. This will be followed by the leaders' walk. Dinner will be hosted by Chinese President Xi at the guest house in central Wuhan. "Indians should see this as a very sincere effort on the path of improving their relationship. It is in our national interest to succeed. There is a very strong sense that the India-China factor can bring a lot of stability. Asia would welcome the news of the informal summit as well as India," India's former foreign secretary S Jaishankar said. On Saturday, the two leaders will have opportunity to spend time without their aides as with Xi taking Modi for a lakeside walk and a boat ride on the picturesque East Lake. This will be followed by a private lunch hosted by the Chinese President. "One of the main objectives of the informal summit is discussion between the two leaders. Otherwise the objective is to give opportunity to the two leaders to speak to each other. They might have a walk in the park, they might go for boating in East Lake in Wuhan and thereby discussing some of the most important issues from the world," said Bambawale. "When two leaders of big countries meet, then they don’t talk about specific micro issues," he said, adding, "India, China will be setting a new trend with the informal meeting." No joint statement or communique will be issued after the informal talks. According to the sources, the informal talks will be broad-based and over arching and no specific issues will be discussed. The idea is to open strategic communication channel at the highest level.

Private lunch, candid dialogue but no set agenda for Modi-Xi talks at Wuhan

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-happy-if-we-can-have-informal-summit-in-india-next-year-pm-modi-tell-president-xi-during-delegation-level-talks-133246">'Will be happy if we can have </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-happy-if-we-can-have-informal-summit-in-india-next-year-pm-modi-tell-president-xi-during-delegation-level-talks-133246">informal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-happy-if-we-can-have-informal-summit-in-india-next-year-pm-modi-tell-president-xi-during-delegation-level-talks-133246"> summit in India,' Modi to President Xi during delegation-level talks</a>

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;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/my-democratic-right-to-vote-in-karnataka-elections-says-vijay-mallya-133253">'My democratic right to vote in Karnataka elections,' says Vijay Mallya</a>

As the extradition battle continued in a UK court, ex-liquor baron Vijay Mallya said even though it is his "democratic right" to vote in the impending Karnataka Assembly elections but his bail conditions won't allow him to leave the UK.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-speed-with-which-you-constructed-it-and-the-scale-inspired-me-says-modi-to-president-xi-133224">Watch: PM Modi on museum tour with Xi at Wuhan</a>

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping began talks during the two-day summit on Friday, the Indian PM said the speed and scale with which China constructed the three gorges dam 'inspired him'.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/key-takaways-from-korean-leaders-joint-statement-from-historic-summit-133240">Key </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/key-takaways-from-korean-leaders-joint-statement-from-historic-summit-133240">takaways</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/key-takaways-from-korean-leaders-joint-statement-from-historic-summit-133240"> from Korean leaders' joint statement from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/key-takaways-from-korean-leaders-joint-statement-from-historic-summit-133240">historic</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/key-takaways-from-korean-leaders-joint-statement-from-historic-summit-133240"> summit</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a joint statement on Friday after meeting at the heavily fortified demilitarised zone between their countries.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-avengers-infinity-war-review-the-film-is-worth-all-the-hype-and-some-more-133230">'Avengers: Infinity War' is worth all the hype and some more</a>

It boils down to this. 10 years of marvellous films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe culminates into one epic finale called Avengers Infinity War - a film that will make you pant in excitement from the first shot and leave you dumbstruck by the ending.&nbsp;

'Will be happy if we can have informal summit in India,' Modi to President Xi during delegation-level talks 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. 'My democratic right to vote in Karnataka elections,' says Vijay Mallya As the extradition battle continued in a UK court, ex-liquor baron Vijay Mallya said even though it is his "democratic right" to vote in the impending Karnataka Assembly elections but his bail conditions won't allow him to leave the UK. Watch: PM Modi on museum tour with Xi at Wuhan As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping began talks during the two-day summit on Friday, the Indian PM said the speed and scale with which China constructed the three gorges dam 'inspired him'. Key takaways from Korean leaders' joint statement from historic summit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a joint statement on Friday after meeting at the heavily fortified demilitarised zone between their countries. 'Avengers: Infinity War' is worth all the hype and some more It boils down to this. 10 years of marvellous films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe culminates into one epic finale called Avengers Infinity War - a film that will make you pant in excitement from the first shot and leave you dumbstruck by the ending.

News brief: Big stories of the day

As Prime Minister Narendra <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-xi-welcomes-pm-modi-as-informal-wuhan-summit-begins-133136">Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping</a> began talks during the two-day summit on Friday, the Indian PM said the speed and scale with which China constructed the three gorges dam 'inspired him'.

Modi visited the&nbsp;Hubei Provincial Museum with President Xi as both leaders took a keen interest in looking at antique Chinese artefacts. They also&nbsp;exchanged views on boosting dialogue between their two ancient civilisations and exchanged notes on living peacefully together, China's state news agency Xinhua said.

"When I was chief minister of Gujarat, I had the opportunity to visit this province. I had heard a lot about the Three Gorges Dam. The speed with which you constructed it and the scale inspired me. So I came on a study tour, spent a day at the dam".

He added, "culture of both India and China is based along the river banks, if we talk about Mohenjo Daro and Harappa civilizations in India, all the development happened along river banks."

Received by Chinese President Xi at the guesthouse in Wuhan City, Modi arrived in China today for a two-day visit to participate in an unprecedented "informal summit".

"Resetting"&nbsp;and "stabling bilateral ties"&nbsp;between both countries is the main goal of this summit after India-China&nbsp;ties hit an unprecedented low during the 73-day standoff at Doklam last year.

President Xi will&nbsp;also host a dinner for Prime Minister Modi at Meiling Hall in the EastGuest Lake House.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-xi-welcomes-pm-modi-as-informal-wuhan-summit-begins-133136">Modi-Xi bonhomie on full display as Wuhan summit gets underway</a>

(With inputs from news agencies)

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China president Xi-Jinping began talks during informal two-summit on Friday

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping began talks during the two-day summit on Friday, the Indian PM said the speed and scale with which China constructed the three gorges dam 'inspired him'. Modi visited the Hubei Provincial Museum with President Xi as both leaders took a keen interest in looking at antique Chinese artefacts. They also exchanged views on boosting dialogue between their two ancient civilisations and exchanged notes on living peacefully together, China's state news agency Xinhua said. "When I was chief minister of Gujarat, I had the opportunity to visit this province. I had heard a lot about the Three Gorges Dam. The speed with which you constructed it and the scale inspired me. So I came on a study tour, spent a day at the dam". He added, "culture of both India and China is based along the river banks, if we talk about Mohenjo Daro and Harappa civilizations in India, all the development happened along river banks." Received by Chinese President Xi at the guesthouse in Wuhan City, Modi arrived in China today for a two-day visit to participate in an unprecedented "informal summit". "Resetting" and "stabling bilateral ties" between both countries is the main goal of this summit after India-China ties hit an unprecedented low during the 73-day standoff at Doklam last year. President Xi will also host a dinner for Prime Minister Modi at Meiling Hall in the EastGuest Lake House. Also read: Modi-Xi bonhomie on full display as Wuhan summit gets underway (With inputs from news agencies)

Watch: PM Modi on museum tour with Xi at Wuhan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President&nbsp;Xi Jinping are holding a friendly, informal and one-on-one conversations focussing on global, regional and bilateral issues at Hubei Provincial Museum in&nbsp;the central Chinese city of Wuhan on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The dialogue between two Asian powerhouses&nbsp;is expected to cement India-China ties although no agenda has been set up for the meeting.

Earlier&nbsp;Modi was accorded a red carpet welcome as Xi welcomed him with a handshake and cultural extravaganza&nbsp;for the 'informal summit'.&nbsp;

This is PM Modi's fourth visit to China since he took over as prime minister of India.&nbsp;

This is the first time both the leaders are meeting post-Doklam&nbsp;tensions.

The dialogue will be followed by talks between the two leaders accompanied by six top officials from each side. The two will have one-on-one dinner at the famous East Lake, a favourite holiday destination of China's revolutionary leader Mao Zedong.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

They will resume their one-on-one interaction tomorrow at 10 a.M (local time) with walks by the lakeside, boat ride and wind up their talks over lunch, official sources here said.

The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then.

But this will be their "heart-to-heart" informal summit. There will be no agreement signed or a joint statement issued.

It is a summit, according to the officials, to forge consensus to resolve the issues with follow up actions by officials than announcing any agreements. This is something the leaders of the two countries have never tried so far, they said.

The details of the informal summit was not disclosed but officials said it included walks by the two leaders in the East Lake where they will have a boat ride and take walks just accompanied by their translators.

The summit is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year among other contentious issues.

In a pre-departure statement, Prime Minister Modi said he and President Xi will review the developments in Sino-Indian relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.

"President Xi and I will exchange views on a range of issues of bilateral and global importance. We will discuss our respective visions and priorities for national development, particularly in the context of current and future international situation," Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

China's state media said the informal Xi-Modi meeting heralds a new chapter in Sino-Indian relations.

During the last year's Doklam standoff the two sides came close to war, an article in the state-run Global Times said.

It dragged Sino-Indian relations down to their lowest level since the 1962 Sino-Indian border War. Obviously, the Doklam standoff did not happen all of a sudden, but was the result of the accumulation of mistrust between the two countries," it said.

The Xi-Modi meeting in 2018 following the 2017 Dokalam standoff will, without doubt, promote mutual trust and reciprocity between the two countries, and will be a cornerstone of a stable long-term relationship between China and India," the article said.&nbsp;

This will be the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are holding a friendly, informal and one-on-one conversations focussing on global, regional and bilateral issues at Hubei Provincial Museum in the central Chinese city of Wuhan on Friday. The dialogue between two Asian powerhouses is expected to cement India-China ties although no agenda has been set up for the meeting. Earlier Modi was accorded a red carpet welcome as Xi welcomed him with a handshake and cultural extravaganza for the 'informal summit'. This is PM Modi's fourth visit to China since he took over as prime minister of India. This is the first time both the leaders are meeting post-Doklam tensions. The dialogue will be followed by talks between the two leaders accompanied by six top officials from each side. The two will have one-on-one dinner at the famous East Lake, a favourite holiday destination of China's revolutionary leader Mao Zedong. They will resume their one-on-one interaction tomorrow at 10 a.M (local time) with walks by the lakeside, boat ride and wind up their talks over lunch, official sources here said. The two leaders began their informal meetings way back in 2014 when Xi was hosted by Modi at the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi in Gujarat. They have met and interacted with each other in about a dozen international meetings since then. But this will be their "heart-to-heart" informal summit. There will be no agreement signed or a joint statement issued. It is a summit, according to the officials, to forge consensus to resolve the issues with follow up actions by officials than announcing any agreements. This is something the leaders of the two countries have never tried so far, they said. The details of the informal summit was not disclosed but officials said it included walks by the two leaders in the East Lake where they will have a boat ride and take walks just accompanied by their translators. The summit is being seen as an effort by India and China to rebuild trust and improve ties that were hit by the 73-day-long Dokalam standoff last year among other contentious issues. In a pre-departure statement, Prime Minister Modi said he and President Xi will review the developments in Sino-Indian relations from a strategic and long-term perspective. "President Xi and I will exchange views on a range of issues of bilateral and global importance. We will discuss our respective visions and priorities for national development, particularly in the context of current and future international situation," Modi said. China's state media said the informal Xi-Modi meeting heralds a new chapter in Sino-Indian relations. During the last year's Doklam standoff the two sides came close to war, an article in the state-run Global Times said. It dragged Sino-Indian relations down to their lowest level since the 1962 Sino-Indian border War. Obviously, the Doklam standoff did not happen all of a sudden, but was the result of the accumulation of mistrust between the two countries," it said. The Xi-Modi meeting in 2018 following the 2017 Dokalam standoff will, without doubt, promote mutual trust and reciprocity between the two countries, and will be a cornerstone of a stable long-term relationship between China and India," the article said. This will be the fourth visit of Modi to China after he came to power in 2014. He is again due to visit China to take part in the SCO summit to be held at Qingdao city on June 9-10.

Modi-Xi bonhomie on full display as Wuhan summit gets underway

Google is certainly the know-all of our time but the same was not exhibited when the global search engine was recently asked&nbsp;who the first Prime Minister of India was.

The query threw up a search page that had Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru's name on the Wikipedia page of 'List of Indian Prime Ministers' with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's picture on the side.&nbsp;

In its first, Google India seemed to have the present Indian Prime Minister mixed up with the first that the country got after independence.&nbsp;

Once a user clicked on the webpage link, it redirected to a Wikipedia page that correctly displayed all the details of the Prime Ministers of the country along with their correct pictures.&nbsp;

<img alt="first.pm.google.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/first.pm.google.jpg" width="770" />

The goof-up stirred a wave of reactions on social media, here's taking a look at someone of them.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Your search keywords should have been- 
'First prime minister of India' or 'Jawahar Lal Nehru' then u wd hv got d desired results. 
Here u are searching- 
'India first PM' 
So google is suggesting the foto of the PM who keeps 'India First'.
— #Assam ? ?? (@AssamElection16) <a href="https://twitter.com/AssamElection16/status/989369525484142592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
What good is <a href="https://twitter.com/Google?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Google</a> when it does not even know India's 1st Prime Minister?
— Rohin Makkar (@Rohino) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rohino/status/989195615459422209?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>

The Google glitch seems to be currently under repair after getting much flaking.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I always thought <a href="https://twitter.com/Google?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Google</a> is a best search engine of the world but today I searched about India's first prime minister and <a href="https://twitter.com/GoogleIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GoogleIndia</a> showed picture of Narendra modi. 
 
Now I am not surprised, why I reached in wrong direction by Google map.<a href="https://twitter.com/divyaspandana?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@divyaspandana</a><a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankac19</a> <a href="https://t.co/fUU5A1BsOL">pic.twitter.com/fUU5A1BsOL</a>
— Ashfaque Khan (@ashfaaaque) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashfaaaque/status/989196264339206145?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>

Some even started trolling Congress social media in-charge Divya Spandana for not knowing the first Prime Minister of the country.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Oh..You had to google to know name of India first Prime Minister!!!!! 
 
Tch...Tch....So Sad.. <a href="https://t.co/36f8KoFSG9">https://t.co/36f8KoFSG9</a>
— Praveen Agrawal (@agrawalp2001) <a href="https://twitter.com/agrawalp2001/status/989177790640590848?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>

&nbsp;

In its first, Google India seemed to have the present Indian Prime Minister mixed up with the first that the country got after its independence

Google is certainly the know-all of our time but the same was not exhibited when the global search engine was recently asked who the first Prime Minister of India was. The query threw up a search page that had Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru's name on the Wikipedia page of 'List of Indian Prime Ministers' with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's picture on the side. In its first, Google India seemed to have the present Indian Prime Minister mixed up with the first that the country got after independence. Once a user clicked on the webpage link, it redirected to a Wikipedia page that correctly displayed all the details of the Prime Ministers of the country along with their correct pictures. The goof-up stirred a wave of reactions on social media, here's taking a look at someone of them. Your search keywords should have been- 'First prime minister of India' or 'Jawahar Lal Nehru' then u wd hv got d desired results. Here u are searching- 'India first PM' So google is suggesting the foto of the PM who keeps 'India First'. — #Assam ? ?? (@AssamElection16) April 26, 2018 × What good is @Google when it does not even know India's 1st Prime Minister? — Rohin Makkar (@Rohino) April 25, 2018 × The Google glitch seems to be currently under repair after getting much flaking. I always thought @Google is a best search engine of the world but today I searched about India's first prime minister and @GoogleIndia showed picture of Narendra modi. Now I am not surprised, why I reached in wrong direction by Google map.@divyaspandana@priyankac19 pic.twitter.com/fUU5A1BsOL — Ashfaque Khan (@ashfaaaque) April 25, 2018 × Some even started trolling Congress social media in-charge Divya Spandana for not knowing the first Prime Minister of the country. Oh..You had to google to know name of India first Prime Minister!!!!! Tch...Tch....So Sad.. https://t.co/36f8KoFSG9 — Praveen Agrawal (@agrawalp2001) April 25, 2018 ×

Google thinks 'India's first PM' looks like this

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is flying to China today for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, which has piqued the interest of media as well as international affairs experts across the globe.

PM Modi and President Xi will be meeting in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province and a commercial centre divided by the Yangtze and Han rivers. As per Encyclopaedia Britannica, the government of newly-formed People's Republic of China merged three cities namely Hankou, Hanyang and Wuchang into one single entity of Wuhan.

Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality - it is almost equidistant from capital Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Chongqing - gives it commercial significance.

The continuous recording of settlement in Wuhan and neighbouring areas dates back to thousands of years. The three cities - which were merged into one to carve out Wuhan - had served as capital cities of many dynasties in imperial Chinese, including the Ming dynasty.

The region has also served as the base for major revolutions in 20th century China, like the Chinese revolution in 1911 and workers' strike in 1923, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. Mao Zedong also used to run a Peasant Movement Institute in Wuchang.

Hanyag was the site of China's first modern-day steel plant, and Wuhan later became second most important metallurgical centre of China. The iron and steel base has attracted other industries Wuhan is the largest centre of heavy machine tools manufacturing in China.

Wuhan is at the centre of a wide network of river, rail and road transportation from almost every direction which makes it a key collecting and distribution point for different products.

Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality gives it commercial significance.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is flying to China today for an 'informal meeting' with President Xi Jinping, which has piqued the interest of media as well as international affairs experts across the globe. PM Modi and President Xi will be meeting in Wuhan, the capital of China's Hubei province and a commercial centre divided by the Yangtze and Han rivers. As per Encyclopaedia Britannica, the government of newly-formed People's Republic of China merged three cities namely Hankou, Hanyang and Wuchang into one single entity of Wuhan. Wuhan is a strategically located city and its geographical centrality - it is almost equidistant from capital Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Chongqing - gives it commercial significance. The continuous recording of settlement in Wuhan and neighbouring areas dates back to thousands of years. The three cities - which were merged into one to carve out Wuhan - had served as capital cities of many dynasties in imperial Chinese, including the Ming dynasty. The region has also served as the base for major revolutions in 20th century China, like the Chinese revolution in 1911 and workers' strike in 1923, according to Encyclopaedia Britannica. Mao Zedong also used to run a Peasant Movement Institute in Wuchang. Hanyag was the site of China's first modern-day steel plant, and Wuhan later became second most important metallurgical centre of China. The iron and steel base has attracted other industries Wuhan is the largest centre of heavy machine tools manufacturing in China. Wuhan is at the centre of a wide network of river, rail and road transportation from almost every direction which makes it a key collecting and distribution point for different products.

All you need to know about Wuhan, the venue for 'informal' Modi-Xi meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday arrived at Wuhan city in China ahead of his scheduled informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

President Jinping and Prime Minister Modi are expected to hold bilateral talks on Friday as part of the two-day informal summit between India and China.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. <a href="https://t.co/Kuq2k2j8gy">pic.twitter.com/Kuq2k2j8gy</a>
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Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders.

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.

The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas.

It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit.

Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit.&nbsp;

They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. <a href="https://t.co/WWxWqYuO58">pic.twitter.com/WWxWqYuO58</a>
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&nbsp;

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday arrived at Wuhan city in China ahead of his scheduled informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. President Jinping and Prime Minister Modi are expected to hold bilateral talks on Friday as part of the two-day informal summit between India and China. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, #China. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. pic.twitter.com/Kuq2k2j8gy — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders. Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by. The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas. It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit. Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Wuhan, #China. The PM was received by Kong Xuanyou, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of foreign affairs of China, Luo Zhaohui (Ambassador), Tong Daochi (Vice-Governor of Hubei) and many others. pic.twitter.com/WWxWqYuO58 — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 ×

Watch: PM Modi arrives in Wuhan to meet President Xi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave for China on Thursday evening to attend an informal summit, to be hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan city on April 27 and 28.

This informal discussion is going to take place for the first time after 1954.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday at the joint press conference with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj in Beijing, "We will make sure that the informal summit (between PM Modi and Chinese President Jinping on April 27-28) will be a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations."

The informal summit is being seen as a move by the two countries to get their ties back on track following the Doklam stand-off last year, wherein troops from the two nations were engaged in an eyeball-to-eyeball standoff near Sikkim border between June to August.

The summit comes ahead of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Qingdao city in June.

No agreements will be signed between India and China and no customary joint press conference will be held during Prime Minister Modi's two-day visit.&nbsp;

This informal discussion is going to take place for the first time after 1954

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave for China on Thursday evening to attend an informal summit, to be hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan city on April 27 and 28. This informal discussion is going to take place for the first time after 1954. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday at the joint press conference with his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj in Beijing, "We will make sure that the informal summit (between PM Modi and Chinese President Jinping on April 27-28) will be a complete success and a milestone in China-India relations." The informal summit is being seen as a move by the two countries to get their ties back on track following the Doklam stand-off last year, wherein troops from the two nations were engaged in an eyeball-to-eyeball standoff near Sikkim border between June to August. The summit comes ahead of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Qingdao city in June. No agreements will be signed between India and China and no customary joint press conference will be held during Prime Minister Modi's two-day visit.

India-China informal summit: Modi to leave for Wuhan today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reset the tone in the middle of Bharatiya Janata Party's election campaign in Karnataka. Unlike Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat where the party's campaign was centered around Pakistan, national security and cemetery, his speech on Thursday morning was focused on the issues of developmental work done by his government. The message was about number and data crunching. His speech was a comparison between his work of four years and that of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for the same period in context of Karnataka. 
&nbsp; 
Why did he do so? For the simple reason that BJP is finding it difficult to handle Siddaramaiah on his own pitch. His party the Congress, which is ruling Karnataka, has built its campaign around social sector schemes for poor and backward castes, sense of regional pride centred around flag, language and injustice, and acknowledgement of Lingayats as separate religion. The Lingayat issue has become a thorn and for this reason PM Modi, without going into the detail, accused Congress of caste hunting in every election. 
&nbsp; 
Siddaramaiah's campaign also revolves around his personality. It exudes the confidence of a strong regional leader who has the capacity to take on the might of Modi. Similar narrative was successfully milked by Modi himself when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. The water of Narmada was turned into an issue of injustice. Similarly, Siddaramaiah has turned the issue of funds for the agricultural sector into sense of injustice to the state. Modi too represented regional pride when he was the chief minister so all the social development data campaign of the Congress failed repeatedly.

Modi that way has taken a risk. In 2012, when Congress built a campaign on economic index, it failed in front of 'Gujarati asmita' which Modi evoked. But from electoral perspective, BJP in Karnataka has been left with no choice.

Even Yedyurrapa has failed to campaign like a regional stalwart. The message in the electorate is that BJP president Amit Shah is calling all the shots unlike Siddaramaiah who has successfully cultivated the image of a leader who is impervious to the machinations of the Delhi-based leaders. The message is that Siddaramaiah gets his way with Congress leadership. Though Yedyrappa has been given prominence in posters with Modi and Shah, it has not achieved that standing in people's eyes. It is for this reason that the BJP is trying to shift goal posts to development and work done by the Centre. Though Modi in his speech said that he is a proud Kannadiga, it will take more than that for the BJP to turn this electoral battle around.

Till now, BJP has only been responding to the Congress's campaign. Barring Bengaluru civic issues, its campaign has really not created a buzz. If they want to wrest Karnataka, the BJP will have to strike an emotional chord with voters as to why they should be voted back as elections are purely anchored around emotive issues like identity, pride and justice.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Modi has taken a risk by focusing on developmental issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reset the tone in the middle of Bharatiya Janata Party's election campaign in Karnataka. Unlike Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat where the party's campaign was centered around Pakistan, national security and cemetery, his speech on Thursday morning was focused on the issues of developmental work done by his government. The message was about number and data crunching. His speech was a comparison between his work of four years and that of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for the same period in context of Karnataka. Why did he do so? For the simple reason that BJP is finding it difficult to handle Siddaramaiah on his own pitch. His party the Congress, which is ruling Karnataka, has built its campaign around social sector schemes for poor and backward castes, sense of regional pride centred around flag, language and injustice, and acknowledgement of Lingayats as separate religion. The Lingayat issue has become a thorn and for this reason PM Modi, without going into the detail, accused Congress of caste hunting in every election. Siddaramaiah's campaign also revolves around his personality. It exudes the confidence of a strong regional leader who has the capacity to take on the might of Modi. Similar narrative was successfully milked by Modi himself when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. The water of Narmada was turned into an issue of injustice. Similarly, Siddaramaiah has turned the issue of funds for the agricultural sector into sense of injustice to the state. Modi too represented regional pride when he was the chief minister so all the social development data campaign of the Congress failed repeatedly. Modi that way has taken a risk. In 2012, when Congress built a campaign on economic index, it failed in front of 'Gujarati asmita' which Modi evoked. But from electoral perspective, BJP in Karnataka has been left with no choice. Even Yedyurrapa has failed to campaign like a regional stalwart. The message in the electorate is that BJP president Amit Shah is calling all the shots unlike Siddaramaiah who has successfully cultivated the image of a leader who is impervious to the machinations of the Delhi-based leaders. The message is that Siddaramaiah gets his way with Congress leadership. Though Yedyrappa has been given prominence in posters with Modi and Shah, it has not achieved that standing in people's eyes. It is for this reason that the BJP is trying to shift goal posts to development and work done by the Centre. Though Modi in his speech said that he is a proud Kannadiga, it will take more than that for the BJP to turn this electoral battle around. Till now, BJP has only been responding to the Congress's campaign. Barring Bengaluru civic issues, its campaign has really not created a buzz. If they want to wrest Karnataka, the BJP will have to strike an emotional chord with voters as to why they should be voted back as elections are purely anchored around emotive issues like identity, pride and justice. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: PM Modi resets Karnataka campaign tone

A Delhi court has dismissed a plea seeking prosecution of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others for allegedly defaming Prime Minister Narendra Modi by raising questions over his educational degree, saying only aggrieved persons can file defamation complaints.

Three persons -- Yogesh Bhardwaj, Rakshpal Singh and Ijharul-Haq -- had moved the court seeking an order asking the police to lodge an FIR against Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and AAP leaders Ashutosh, Raghav Chadha, Ashish Khetan and Jitender Singh Tomar, for allegedly defaming the Prime Minister.

"Only an aggrieved person, that is a person who has been defamed, can prosecute for his defamation.&nbsp;

"Admittedly, the complainants are not the aggrieved/victims of defamatory statements, if any, made by the respondents (Kejriwal, Sisodia, Ashutosh, Chadha, Khetan and Tomar). Therefore, they have no locus to file and prosecute the present case as far as the offence of defamation is concerned," Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal said while summarily rejecting the complaint.&nbsp;

The court also noted that the complainants had not given any thought on what offence they were alleging against the respondents persons.

"The complainants state in the heading of the complaint, the commission of following other offences, that is 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code but did not elaborate how these offences are made out in this case.

All these offences except 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of IPC relates to the offence of forgery," it said.

The court also said that no offence for forgery could be attributed to the respondents as the complainants did not place on record the document which has been forged.

Regarding section 504, the court said there was nothing in the complaint to substantiate this charge.

"The complaint has no merits. Not only on merits that no case is made out, but also for want of locus to prosecute, I refuse to direct registration of FIR and refuse to take cognisance of the offence under section 499, 500, 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 of IPC against the respondents. The complaint is accordingly dismissed," the court said.&nbsp;

The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016 on the issue of his degrees and tarnished his image by showing his false degrees in press conferences and print and other social media.

However, the University of Delhi on May 11, 2016 made the Prime Minister's degrees public which had exposed the false propaganda of the accused persons, it had said.&nbsp;

The complainants also claimed to have approached the police which did not take any step against the accused persons.&nbsp;

The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016

A Delhi court has dismissed a plea seeking prosecution of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others for allegedly defaming Prime Minister Narendra Modi by raising questions over his educational degree, saying only aggrieved persons can file defamation complaints. Three persons -- Yogesh Bhardwaj, Rakshpal Singh and Ijharul-Haq -- had moved the court seeking an order asking the police to lodge an FIR against Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and AAP leaders Ashutosh, Raghav Chadha, Ashish Khetan and Jitender Singh Tomar, for allegedly defaming the Prime Minister. "Only an aggrieved person, that is a person who has been defamed, can prosecute for his defamation. "Admittedly, the complainants are not the aggrieved/victims of defamatory statements, if any, made by the respondents (Kejriwal, Sisodia, Ashutosh, Chadha, Khetan and Tomar). Therefore, they have no locus to file and prosecute the present case as far as the offence of defamation is concerned," Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal said while summarily rejecting the complaint. The court also noted that the complainants had not given any thought on what offence they were alleging against the respondents persons. "The complainants state in the heading of the complaint, the commission of following other offences, that is 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 (common intention) of Indian Penal Code but did not elaborate how these offences are made out in this case. All these offences except 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of IPC relates to the offence of forgery," it said. The court also said that no offence for forgery could be attributed to the respondents as the complainants did not place on record the document which has been forged. Regarding section 504, the court said there was nothing in the complaint to substantiate this charge. "The complaint has no merits. Not only on merits that no case is made out, but also for want of locus to prosecute, I refuse to direct registration of FIR and refuse to take cognisance of the offence under section 499, 500, 504, 467, 465, 468, 469 and 34 of IPC against the respondents. The complaint is accordingly dismissed," the court said. The complaint had alleged that the respondents had defamed the Prime Minister in May 2016 on the issue of his degrees and tarnished his image by showing his false degrees in press conferences and print and other social media. However, the University of Delhi on May 11, 2016 made the Prime Minister's degrees public which had exposed the false propaganda of the accused persons, it had said. The complainants also claimed to have approached the police which did not take any step against the accused persons.

Court dismisses plea against Kejriwal for defaming PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday left for China, to attend first of its kind 'informal summit'.

PM Modi in a statement, said the two Asian giants will review development in the relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.

Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders.

Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Narendra Modi leaves for Wuhan, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. He will hold an informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 27th & 28th April. <a href="https://t.co/k5P8DprVtW">pic.twitter.com/k5P8DprVtW</a>
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It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit.

Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. Later in the evening, Prime Minister Modi will depart for Beijing.

They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday left for China, to attend first of its kind 'informal summit'. PM Modi in a statement, said the two Asian giants will review development in the relations from a strategic and long-term perspective. Security has been beefed up in China's Wuhan city ahead of the summit between two leaders. Teams of security personnel have been deployed at various locations where the convoy of the Asian leaders is expected to pass by.The airport of the Wuhan city and other places are expected to be on high-alert as the two leaders are scheduled to hold talks over two days, probably in open areas. #WATCH: PM Narendra Modi leaves for Wuhan, #China. He will hold an informal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on 27th & 28th April. pic.twitter.com/k5P8DprVtW — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × It is an unprecedented summit to be held between the two global leaders where no memorandum of understanding or statement is expected to be issued after the summit. Earlier in the day, Xi arrived at the Wuhan City ahead of the informal summit. Later in the evening, Prime Minister Modi will depart for Beijing. They are expected to visit certain places in the Wuhan City, including the East Lake or Wuhan botanical garden, which is said to be the famous sight-seeing places of the Chinese commercial hub. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Narendra Modi leaves for China; security beefed up in Wuhan

Security has been beefed up Wuhan on Thursday as China gears up to&nbsp;host Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Modi and&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping are to hold an informal summit in Wuhan.

The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit.

News agency Reuters report quoting&nbsp;Indian ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale stated that&nbsp;&nbsp;Modi's meeting with Xi will bear no agenda and will have a very friendly setting. However, he also said that the two leaders may still hold a candid dialogue on the pressing global issues and their outlook for the world and set a course for the development of bilateral ties.

Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues.

The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit.

Security has been beefed up Wuhan on Thursday as China gears up to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are to hold an informal summit in Wuhan. The last meeting between Xi and Modi took place in China's eastern city of Xiamen last September after the ninth BRICS summit. News agency Reuters report quoting Indian ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale stated that Modi's meeting with Xi will bear no agenda and will have a very friendly setting. However, he also said that the two leaders may still hold a candid dialogue on the pressing global issues and their outlook for the world and set a course for the development of bilateral ties. Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

China gears up to welcome Modi for informal summit with Xi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today set out on the agenda to address Bhartiya Janta Party Karnataka candidates. In a live address, PM Modi entertained some of the BJP candidates' queries and talked on a range of topics concerning the state of Karnataka.&nbsp;

"Parties fear discussions on development as it is measurable," PM Modi noted.&nbsp;

Development is the only agenda of the BJP, the Prime Minister noted further adding that development is not an issue for the ones who deal in caste-based politics, "they give a lollipop of fake promises to a particular community and then do same with another community in next elections".&nbsp;

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We are fighting elections only on the issue of development. There is one aspect on which they can never defeat us, that is our power as a party & the power of the party's youth force: PM Modi to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> BJP workers <a href="https://t.co/Ujkz3e83Bh">pic.twitter.com/Ujkz3e83Bh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/989355144151207936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He went on to note that for Karnataka, the party has the agenda of development that is fast paced&nbsp;and all rounded.

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Parties fear discussions on development as it is measurable. Development is not an issue for ones who do in caste-based politics, they give a lollipop of fake promises to particular community & then do same with another community in next elections: PM to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> BJP workers <a href="https://t.co/OnaZKZSYRu">pic.twitter.com/OnaZKZSYRu</a>
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The Prime Minister stated that the BJP will form a government in Karnataka with a majority, "there is one aspect on which they can never defeat us, that is our power as a party and the power of the party's youth force," he noted.

PM Modi also stressed the significance of empowering the poor.

He lashed out at the Congress alleging that the party spread lies and by hiring foreign agencies, "We need to purify the culture by removing Congress," he stated.&nbsp;

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Looking forward to interacting with all candidates, office bearers, elected representatives and Karyakartas of <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Karnataka</a> through the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' at 9 AM. <a href="https://t.co/ZFxnxXvOF6">https://t.co/ZFxnxXvOF6</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/989330981642493953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rahul Gandhi-led Congress and the Bhartiya Janta Party are currently in full swing to lure the voters for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.

The polls to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

Modi spoke on Thursday to the BJP's candidates for the upcoming Karnataka elections and the party's workers via his NaMo app. He also took questions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today set out on the agenda to address Bhartiya Janta Party Karnataka candidates. In a live address, PM Modi entertained some of the BJP candidates' queries and talked on a range of topics concerning the state of Karnataka. "Parties fear discussions on development as it is measurable," PM Modi noted. Development is the only agenda of the BJP, the Prime Minister noted further adding that development is not an issue for the ones who deal in caste-based politics, "they give a lollipop of fake promises to a particular community and then do same with another community in next elections". We are fighting elections only on the issue of development. There is one aspect on which they can never defeat us, that is our power as a party & the power of the party's youth force: PM Modi to #Karnataka BJP workers pic.twitter.com/Ujkz3e83Bh — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × He went on to note that for Karnataka, the party has the agenda of development that is fast paced and all rounded. Parties fear discussions on development as it is measurable. Development is not an issue for ones who do in caste-based politics, they give a lollipop of fake promises to particular community & then do same with another community in next elections: PM to #Karnataka BJP workers pic.twitter.com/OnaZKZSYRu — ANI (@ANI) April 26, 2018 × The Prime Minister stated that the BJP will form a government in Karnataka with a majority, "there is one aspect on which they can never defeat us, that is our power as a party and the power of the party's youth force," he noted. PM Modi also stressed the significance of empowering the poor. He lashed out at the Congress alleging that the party spread lies and by hiring foreign agencies, "We need to purify the culture by removing Congress," he stated. Looking forward to interacting with all candidates, office bearers, elected representatives and Karyakartas of @BJP4Karnataka through the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' at 9 AM. https://t.co/ZFxnxXvOF6 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 26, 2018 × Rahul Gandhi-led Congress and the Bhartiya Janta Party are currently in full swing to lure the voters for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. The polls to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 12. The southern state is slated to witness a three-corner contest involving the ruling Congress, the BJP and the H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). The result of the polls will be announced on May 15.

We cannot be defeated because of power of party: PM Modi before Karnataka elections

India is expected to host South Korean President Moon Jae-in this year to add more strategic heft to its growing bilateral economic partnership. The two countries will look to build on convergences between Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Act East Policy" and President moon's new "Southern Policy", which seek better ties with countries in the Indo-pacific region.

Bilateral consular relations were established between the two countries in 1962 which were upgraded to Ambassador-level in 1973. In course of time, Seoul's open market policies found resonance with India's economic liberalisation and "Look East" as well as "Act East" policies. Consistent Indian support for peaceful reunification of the two Koreas has been well received in the South.

A good indication of growing ties between South Korea and India is the fact that Hyundai, Samsung and LG are household names in India. South Korea's traditional food kimchi, made from fermented vegetables such as cabbage, and K-pop star Psy of Gangnam style fame are popular, too.

But the dramatic upturn in ties did not happen overnight.

India-South Korea ties took off at the turn of the new millennium, with president APJ Abdul Kalam's visit to Seoul in the year 2006. It led to the launch of a joint task force to conclude an agreement called bilateral comprehensive economic partnership or CEPA. It was operationalised on January 1, 2010.

Trade and economic relations started to gather momentum following the implementation of CEPA in 2010 and the bilateral trade in 2011 crossed US $20.5 billion,&nbsp registering a 70 per cent growth over a two-year period. 
&nbsp 
The same year, South Korea's then President Lee Myung-bak visited New Delhi as the chief guest of India's Republic Day celebrations. He raised the ties to the strategic level.

One year later, in July 2011, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil paid a reciprocal visit to South Korea and a civil nuclear energy cooperation was signed during her visit. 
&nbsp 
In the following year, 2012, Prime Minister Manmohan singh travelled to Seoul for bilateral talks and to attend the nuclear security summit. Both sides signed a visa simplification agreement.

Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye travelled to New Delhi in January 2014. The joint statement for expansion of strategic partnership issued during the visit unveiled a blue print for further expanding the political, security, defence and economic relations.

India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj was in Seoul in December 2014, and the defence minister in April, 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited South Korea in May, 2015. During the visit, the bilateral relationship was upgraded to special strategic partnership.

The relationship witnessed new momentum following the inauguration of President Moon Jae-in's administration. PM Modi was the fourth international leader to congratulate President Moon on his election victory. PM Modi's congratulatory tweet in Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon, Korean media and common people.

President Moon reciprocated by sending Chung Dongchea, former culture minister, as his special envoy to India, first such instance in the bilateral relationship, and through subsequent announcement to upgrade the relationship with India equivalent to four traditional partners under the "New Asia Community Plus" framework.

India-South Korea ties took off at the turn of the new millennium, with president APJ Abdul Kalam's visit to Seoul in the year 2006.

India is expected to host South Korean President Moon Jae-in this year to add more strategic heft to its growing bilateral economic partnership. The two countries will look to build on convergences between Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Act East Policy" and President moon's new "Southern Policy", which seek better ties with countries in the Indo-pacific region. Bilateral consular relations were established between the two countries in 1962 which were upgraded to Ambassador-level in 1973. In course of time, Seoul's open market policies found resonance with India's economic liberalisation and "Look East" as well as "Act East" policies. Consistent Indian support for peaceful reunification of the two Koreas has been well received in the South. A good indication of growing ties between South Korea and India is the fact that Hyundai, Samsung and LG are household names in India. South Korea's traditional food kimchi, made from fermented vegetables such as cabbage, and K-pop star Psy of Gangnam style fame are popular, too. But the dramatic upturn in ties did not happen overnight. India-South Korea ties took off at the turn of the new millennium, with president APJ Abdul Kalam's visit to Seoul in the year 2006. It led to the launch of a joint task force to conclude an agreement called bilateral comprehensive economic partnership or CEPA. It was operationalised on January 1, 2010. Trade and economic relations started to gather momentum following the implementation of CEPA in 2010 and the bilateral trade in 2011 crossed US $20.5 billion, registering a 70 per cent growth over a two-year period. The same year, South Korea's then President Lee Myung-bak visited New Delhi as the chief guest of India's Republic Day celebrations. He raised the ties to the strategic level. One year later, in July 2011, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil paid a reciprocal visit to South Korea and a civil nuclear energy cooperation was signed during her visit. In the following year, 2012, Prime Minister Manmohan singh travelled to Seoul for bilateral talks and to attend the nuclear security summit. Both sides signed a visa simplification agreement. Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye travelled to New Delhi in January 2014. The joint statement for expansion of strategic partnership issued during the visit unveiled a blue print for further expanding the political, security, defence and economic relations. India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj was in Seoul in December 2014, and the defence minister in April, 2015. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited South Korea in May, 2015. During the visit, the bilateral relationship was upgraded to special strategic partnership. The relationship witnessed new momentum following the inauguration of President Moon Jae-in's administration. PM Modi was the fourth international leader to congratulate President Moon on his election victory. PM Modi's congratulatory tweet in Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon, Korean media and common people. President Moon reciprocated by sending Chung Dongchea, former culture minister, as his special envoy to India, first such instance in the bilateral relationship, and through subsequent announcement to upgrade the relationship with India equivalent to four traditional partners under the "New Asia Community Plus" framework.

India-South Korea relations: How friendship grew over the years

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said sons have to be made more responsible for a safe environment for daughters and asserted that the promulgation of an ordinance on rape showed the Centre acted on people's outrage on sexual crimes against minors.

Days after the government approved the ordinance allowing courts to award the death penalty to those convicted of raping girls below the age of 12 years, Modi also called for a social movement to ensure the safety of girls.

"Shivraj ji (Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan) just referred to the capital punishment provided in the ordinance for rape against minors and I could see that it (the remark) received cheers from everyone present here," Modi said while addressing a rally here.

"There is a government in Delhi which listens to your voice and takes decisions. So, the Centre has made a provision for capital punishment to the monstrous intent," he said.

The Union Cabinet had on April 21 okayed the ordinance amid a nation-wide uproar over the rape and murder of minors in Kathua and Surat and the rape of a teenager in Unnao.

"Those who commit such ghastly crimes will hang," the prime minister said.

Modi, while addressing the National Panchayati Raj Sammelan at Ramnagar in Madhya Pradesh's Mandla district, also pitched for creating an atmosphere for daughters' safety within the family.

"Families will have to enhance the honour and respect of daughters. Families should also make their sons more responsible.

"In this way, the safety of daughters would not be a difficult task. We have to launch a social movement in this direction," Modi said.

He also mentioned measures taken by the government for the welfare of tribals and farmers and asked the elected representatives of panchayats to ensure that these steps were implemented.

On the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, Modi also urged people in rural areas to focus on "Jan Dhan, Van Dhan and Gou Dhan" (human wealth, forest resources and the bounty of cows) to develop villages as envisaged by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

"By 2022, when the country celebrates the 75th anniversary of its independence, we should strive to make villages as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. It can be done by using villages' manpower for developing villages, Van Dhan by collecting neem seeds for coating urea and Gou Dhan by using cow dung for producing electricity, bio-gas and manure for becoming self-reliant," Modi said.

He also called upon them to opt for bamboo farming and honey cultivation to raise their earnings.

During his visit here, the prime minister also laid the foundation stone for an LPG bottling plant at Maneri in the district.

Days after the government approved the ordinance allowing courts to award the death penalty to those convicted of raping girls below the age of 12 years, Modi also called for a social movement to ensure the safety of girls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said sons have to be made more responsible for a safe environment for daughters and asserted that the promulgation of an ordinance on rape showed the Centre acted on people's outrage on sexual crimes against minors. Days after the government approved the ordinance allowing courts to award the death penalty to those convicted of raping girls below the age of 12 years, Modi also called for a social movement to ensure the safety of girls. "Shivraj ji (Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan) just referred to the capital punishment provided in the ordinance for rape against minors and I could see that it (the remark) received cheers from everyone present here," Modi said while addressing a rally here. "There is a government in Delhi which listens to your voice and takes decisions. So, the Centre has made a provision for capital punishment to the monstrous intent," he said. The Union Cabinet had on April 21 okayed the ordinance amid a nation-wide uproar over the rape and murder of minors in Kathua and Surat and the rape of a teenager in Unnao. "Those who commit such ghastly crimes will hang," the prime minister said. Modi, while addressing the National Panchayati Raj Sammelan at Ramnagar in Madhya Pradesh's Mandla district, also pitched for creating an atmosphere for daughters' safety within the family. "Families will have to enhance the honour and respect of daughters. Families should also make their sons more responsible. "In this way, the safety of daughters would not be a difficult task. We have to launch a social movement in this direction," Modi said. He also mentioned measures taken by the government for the welfare of tribals and farmers and asked the elected representatives of panchayats to ensure that these steps were implemented. On the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, Modi also urged people in rural areas to focus on "Jan Dhan, Van Dhan and Gou Dhan" (human wealth, forest resources and the bounty of cows) to develop villages as envisaged by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. "By 2022, when the country celebrates the 75th anniversary of its independence, we should strive to make villages as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. It can be done by using villages' manpower for developing villages, Van Dhan by collecting neem seeds for coating urea and Gou Dhan by using cow dung for producing electricity, bio-gas and manure for becoming self-reliant," Modi said. He also called upon them to opt for bamboo farming and honey cultivation to raise their earnings. During his visit here, the prime minister also laid the foundation stone for an LPG bottling plant at Maneri in the district.

Sons must also be made responsible for safe environment: Modi on rapes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit China for two days for an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-will-not-sign-agreements-at-wuhan-summit-but-build-trust-to-resolve-bilateral-issues-china-132552">'informal meeting'</a> with President Xi Jinping, as efforts at rapprochement gather pace following a testing year in ties between the two giant neighbours.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said the two would meet on Friday and Saturday in the central <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-india-china-wuhan-summit-different--132672">Chinese city of Wuhan</a>. He added that PM Modi is visiting Wuhan at the invitation of President Xi.

But the details of the meeting, which is reported to have been called suddenly, were being worked upon for the past many days. The meeting of India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval with China's State Councillor on April 13, and presence of foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman in China point towards this.

"Our common interests far outweigh our differences. The two countries have no choice other than pursuing everlasting friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation and common development," Wang told reporters after meeting Swaraj in Beijing.

Swaraj confirmed later that her discussion with Wang was to prepare for the informal summit.

<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-to-chart-a-new-course-for-india-china-ties-at-wuhan-summit--132075">Modi's visit</a> is being considered as a bold step, especially after the Doklam stand-off and other border issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in Doklam last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

This is the fourth time Modi will be visiting China after becoming the Prime Minister. He visited China for bilateral talks in 2015, then again in 2016 to take part in G-20 summit. Modi also attended the BRICS Summit last year in China.

It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place. Chinese officials said Modi will stay in the most comfortable place in Wuhan.

"The two leaders will spend two days in Wuhan. In these two days, they will engage with other on various forums. What I can tell you here is that they will spend a lot of time together one-on-one," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said. "Leaders in the past met in multilateral occasions, 30 minutes or one hour. Those meetings are important but personally speaking the meetings on the multilateral occasions are more ceremonial meetings," he added.

What's on the agenda?

Trade talks are likely to dominate the meeting between Modi and Xi. With a trade war brewing between US and China, Beijing is keen to amp up the volume of trade with New Delhi. Currently, the trade deficit between the two countries is close to Rs 3.5 lakh crore, though exports have risen by 39 per cent and imports by 14. India has been trying hard to reduce the trade deficit and has been asking Beijing to open IT and pharma sectors for Indian firms.

The second talking point between two leaders is going to be the border issue. Both Modi and Xi are likely to discuss the situation in Doklam and iron out issues pertaining to the network of roads in border areas.

However, sources in New Delhi said the meeting will not have an "issue-based discussion but a strategic conversation between the two leaders to understand each other's perspective on national and international matters". They also said that the summit is not aimed at "resetting" India-China ties.

At the informal summit, the two leaders will have strategic communication on the major changes in the international landscape unseen in more than 100 years. They will have in-depth exchange of views on the issues of overarching long-term and strategic importance in the bilateral relations, Kong said.

"This time we will make the first attempt to hold the informal summit. I am confident that with the joint efforts of both sides the new format will live up to the expectations," he added.&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp

It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession.

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. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said the two would meet on Friday and Saturday in the central Chinese city of Wuhan. He added that PM Modi is visiting Wuhan at the invitation of President Xi. But the details of the meeting, which is reported to have been called suddenly, were being worked upon for the past many days. The meeting of India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval with China's State Councillor on April 13, and presence of foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman in China point towards this. "Our common interests far outweigh our differences. The two countries have no choice other than pursuing everlasting friendship, mutually beneficial cooperation and common development," Wang told reporters after meeting Swaraj in Beijing. Swaraj confirmed later that her discussion with Wang was to prepare for the informal summit. Modi's visit is being considered as a bold step, especially after the Doklam stand-off and other border issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in Doklam last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches. This is the fourth time Modi will be visiting China after becoming the Prime Minister. He visited China for bilateral talks in 2015, then again in 2016 to take part in G-20 summit. Modi also attended the BRICS Summit last year in China. It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place. Chinese officials said Modi will stay in the most comfortable place in Wuhan. "The two leaders will spend two days in Wuhan. In these two days, they will engage with other on various forums. What I can tell you here is that they will spend a lot of time together one-on-one," Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said. "Leaders in the past met in multilateral occasions, 30 minutes or one hour. Those meetings are important but personally speaking the meetings on the multilateral occasions are more ceremonial meetings," he added. What's on the agenda? Trade talks are likely to dominate the meeting between Modi and Xi. With a trade war brewing between US and China, Beijing is keen to amp up the volume of trade with New Delhi. Currently, the trade deficit between the two countries is close to Rs 3.5 lakh crore, though exports have risen by 39 per cent and imports by 14. India has been trying hard to reduce the trade deficit and has been asking Beijing to open IT and pharma sectors for Indian firms. The second talking point between two leaders is going to be the border issue. Both Modi and Xi are likely to discuss the situation in Doklam and iron out issues pertaining to the network of roads in border areas. However, sources in New Delhi said the meeting will not have an "issue-based discussion but a strategic conversation between the two leaders to understand each other's perspective on national and international matters". They also said that the summit is not aimed at "resetting" India-China ties. At the informal summit, the two leaders will have strategic communication on the major changes in the international landscape unseen in more than 100 years. They will have in-depth exchange of views on the issues of overarching long-term and strategic importance in the bilateral relations, Kong said. "This time we will make the first attempt to hold the informal summit. I am confident that with the joint efforts of both sides the new format will live up to the expectations," he added.

With trade deficit on mind, Modi heads to Wuhan for 'informal meeting' with Xi Jinping

Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has said that he had spoken to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts to resume the stalled SAARC process by sorting out their differences.

Unveiling a book titled 'Effectiveness of SAARC and Regional Conference' at a function organised by the Federal Parliament Secretariat here yesterday, Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region.

The 19th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit was to be held in Islamabad in 2016 but after a major terror attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate. There has been no progress since then.

Oli, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to India and Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during his trip to Nepal recently, had discussed about the need to restart the SAARC process.&nbsp;

"Nepal is the current chair of SAARC. There is a misunderstanding among some members. However, it is necessary to create cordial environment among them," Oli said, stressing the need for sorting out the differences between SAARC neighbours.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Krishna Bahadur Mahara, while expressing concern over the delay in convening the biennial summit, urged all the member states to take the SAARC process forward actively and effectively.

SAARC Summits are usually held biennially, hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association.

The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu.

Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region

Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has said that he had spoken to both his Indian and Pakistani counterparts to resume the stalled SAARC process by sorting out their differences. Unveiling a book titled 'Effectiveness of SAARC and Regional Conference' at a function organised by the Federal Parliament Secretariat here yesterday, Prime Minister Oli said that building friendly relations based on mutual understanding, cooperation and collaboration among SAARC member states were essential for maintaining peace and prosperity in the region. The 19th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit was to be held in Islamabad in 2016 but after a major terror attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate. There has been no progress since then. Oli, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit to India and Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during his trip to Nepal recently, had discussed about the need to restart the SAARC process. "Nepal is the current chair of SAARC. There is a misunderstanding among some members. However, it is necessary to create cordial environment among them," Oli said, stressing the need for sorting out the differences between SAARC neighbours. Speaker of the House of Representatives Krishna Bahadur Mahara, while expressing concern over the delay in convening the biennial summit, urged all the member states to take the SAARC process forward actively and effectively. SAARC Summits are usually held biennially, hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association. The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu.

Oli speaks to prime ministers of India, Pakistan to resume stalled SAARC process

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 will be on a two-day state visit to Nepal from May 11. Modi's Nepali counterpart KP Sharma Oli visited India recently to mend ties that had taken a hit due to the economic blockade along the Nepal-India border in 2015-16.

PM Modi's visit to the Himalayan country was decided during Oli's visit to India.

The Prime Minister is likely to visit Janakpur which he couldn't during his visit in 2014. PM Modi may also pay the holy Hindu pilgrimage site Muktinath a visit.&nbsp;

According to reports, PM Modi will Modi be received with a civic reception.

Meanwhile, on Sunday Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Sigh Puri met Lal Babu Raut, the Chief Minister of Province no 2 in Janakpur. The officials discussed Modi's Nepal visit.&nbsp;

PM Modi's visit to the Himalayan country was decided during Oli's visit to India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day state visit to Nepal from May 11. Modi's Nepali counterpart KP Sharma Oli visited India recently to mend ties that had taken a hit due to the economic blockade along the Nepal-India border in 2015-16. PM Modi's visit to the Himalayan country was decided during Oli's visit to India. The Prime Minister is likely to visit Janakpur which he couldn't during his visit in 2014. PM Modi may also pay the holy Hindu pilgrimage site Muktinath a visit. According to reports, PM Modi will Modi be received with a civic reception. Meanwhile, on Sunday Indian Ambassador to Nepal Manjeev Sigh Puri met Lal Babu Raut, the Chief Minister of Province no 2 in Janakpur. The officials discussed Modi's Nepal visit.

PM Modi's 2-day-visit to Nepal will begin on May 11

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;

Xi's meeting with PM Modi is seen as a something that could unnerve Islamabad.

The "all weather" allies, China and Pakistan, have enjoyed close ties that are often viewed with suspicion by India.

At a meeting&nbsp;in Beijing, Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi told Pakistan's Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif that China will continue to firmly support Pakistan.&nbsp;

"We are ready to work together with our Pakistani brothers to undertake the historical mission of national rejuvenation and achieve the great dream of national prosperity and development," Wang said.

"In this way, our iron friendship with Pakistan will never rust and be tempered into steel."

The officials did not make any comments on the upcoming Xi-Modi meeting.&nbsp;

PM Modi has tried to reset relations with Beijing after years of disagreements over issues ranging from border disputes to exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

An informal summit between Modi and Xi will be held in China on Friday and Saturday.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui on Sunday hoped that an informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping later this week in the Chinese city of Wuhan will enhance "good chemistry" between the two leaders and strengthen bilateral ties.

After a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced in Beijing that Modi and Xi will hold an informal summit in Wuhan city from April 27 to 28.&nbsp;

"The summit will highlight the personal friendship and enhance the good chemistry between the two leaders. I believe with the guidance of our two leaders and through joint efforts of the Chinese and Indian people including you and me, China-India relations will turn a new page," Luo said in a video message while making a debut on Twitter.

(With inputs from agencies)

China will continue to firmly support Pakistan, its top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, told Pakistan`s Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif at a meeting in Beijing

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. Xi's meeting with PM Modi is seen as a something that could unnerve Islamabad. The "all weather" allies, China and Pakistan, have enjoyed close ties that are often viewed with suspicion by India. At a meeting in Beijing, Chinese State Councillor Wang Yi told Pakistan's Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif that China will continue to firmly support Pakistan. "We are ready to work together with our Pakistani brothers to undertake the historical mission of national rejuvenation and achieve the great dream of national prosperity and development," Wang said. "In this way, our iron friendship with Pakistan will never rust and be tempered into steel." The officials did not make any comments on the upcoming Xi-Modi meeting. PM Modi has tried to reset relations with Beijing after years of disagreements over issues ranging from border disputes to exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama. An informal summit between Modi and Xi will be held in China on Friday and Saturday. Meanwhile, China's Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui on Sunday hoped that an informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping later this week in the Chinese city of Wuhan will enhance "good chemistry" between the two leaders and strengthen bilateral ties. After a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced in Beijing that Modi and Xi will hold an informal summit in Wuhan city from April 27 to 28. "The summit will highlight the personal friendship and enhance the good chemistry between the two leaders. I believe with the guidance of our two leaders and through joint efforts of the Chinese and Indian people including you and me, China-India relations will turn a new page," Luo said in a video message while making a debut on Twitter. (With inputs from agencies)

Ties will 'never rust': China reassures Pakistan ahead of Xi's meeting with PM Modi

Former Indian Foreign Secretary&nbspS&nbspJaishankar termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to China later this week for an informal meeting with President Xi Jinping a bold step on Sunday (April 22) in New Delhi.

Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues.

The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches.

Jaishankar said if the two countries could settle their differences amicably, then it would benefit the whole world.

Modi's previously unannounced Wuhan trip is even more unusual in that he will visit China again in June for a summit in Qingdao of the China and Russia-led security grouping, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which India joined last year.

It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China twice in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place.

Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues.

Former Indian Foreign Secretary&nbspS&nbspJaishankar termed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to China later this week for an informal meeting with President Xi Jinping a bold step on Sunday (April 22) in New Delhi. Modi has sought to re-set ties after disputes over issues including their disputed border with Tibet and other issues. The Asian giants were locked in a 73-day military stand-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of that boundary last year. At one point, soldiers from the two sides threw stones and punches. Jaishankar said if the two countries could settle their differences amicably, then it would benefit the whole world. Modi's previously unannounced Wuhan trip is even more unusual in that he will visit China again in June for a summit in Qingdao of the China and Russia-led security grouping, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which India joined last year. It is almost unheard of for foreign leaders to visit China twice in such close succession. Xi is also extending Modi the rare honour of a meeting outside of Beijing, which almost never happens unless there is a multilateral summit taking place.

Modi's visit to China a bold step, says former Indian foreign secretary S Jaishankar

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the state government is against the formation of Cauvery Management Board (CMB) as it is 'unconstitutional'.

In his letter, he mentioned that the Supreme Court has not directed any mechanism towards the formation of the CMB.

"Our government is strongly opposed to the formation of Cauvery Management Board because such board is not constitutional and the Supreme Court has not directed any mechanism," Siddaramaiah said.

He mentioned that according to the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, the formation of CMB is in the "nature of a recommendation and not a direction".

The Chief Minister has sought an early appointment to meet the Prime Minister over the issue.The Supreme Court, in its ruling, had reduced Tamil Nadu's share in the Cauvery water to 177.25 TMC and increased Karnataka's share of water.

On February 16, the apex court had ordered the Central government to set up the CMB and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) within six weeks.&nbsp; 
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the state government is against the formation of Cauvery Management Board (CMB) as it is 'unconstitutional'

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the state government is against the formation of Cauvery Management Board (CMB) as it is 'unconstitutional'. In his letter, he mentioned that the Supreme Court has not directed any mechanism towards the formation of the CMB. "Our government is strongly opposed to the formation of Cauvery Management Board because such board is not constitutional and the Supreme Court has not directed any mechanism," Siddaramaiah said. He mentioned that according to the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal, the formation of CMB is in the "nature of a recommendation and not a direction". The Chief Minister has sought an early appointment to meet the Prime Minister over the issue.The Supreme Court, in its ruling, had reduced Tamil Nadu's share in the Cauvery water to 177.25 TMC and increased Karnataka's share of water. On February 16, the apex court had ordered the Central government to set up the CMB and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) within six weeks.

Siddaramaiah writes to Modi, says Cauvery Management Board 'unconstitutional'

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