India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.&nbsp;

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-veto-of-house-defence-bill-over-spending-levels-wall-234525&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj49Ke1q6rjAhUxheYKHd2aDEwQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29-_WQn5bRLvCHPQycTYv8">US trade-preference scheme</a> and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable".

"India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump.

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India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!
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During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry. "On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade-preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable". "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump. India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 9, 2019 × During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India-US trade talks to be held on July 12 in New Delhi

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.&nbsp;

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-veto-of-house-defence-bill-over-spending-levels-wall-234525&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj49Ke1q6rjAhUxheYKHd2aDEwQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29-_WQn5bRLvCHPQycTYv8">US trade-preference scheme</a> and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable".

"India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump.

During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry. "On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade-preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable". "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump. During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India has said that a UN report on the situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-one-civilian-injured-as-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-nowshera-233962">Jammu and Kashmir</a> is a mere continuation of the earlier "false and motivated narrative".

"The report of the OHCHR is merely a continuation of the earlier false and motivated narrative on the situation in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Its assertions are in violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity and ignore the core issue of cross-border terrorism," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Monday.

The report by Office of the High Commission for Human Rights (OHCHR) slammed both<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-occupied-kashmir-govt-employees-stage-protest-againtst-pakistan-discriminatory-financial-policies-232643"> India and Pakistan</a> for failing to improve situation in the state, and called for an international probe into violations.

Noting that four major armed groups in J&amp;K are believed to be based on the Pakistan side of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-army-soldier-killed-in-sniper-fire-along-line-of-control-176587">Line of Control</a>, the OHCHR report said, "No steps have been taken to resolve the main issues, including a number of highly problematic legal restrictions." This is a follow-up report by OHCHR on its first-ever report on Kashmir released last year.

"A situation created by years of cross-border terrorist attacks emanating from Pakistan has been 'analysed' without any reference to its causality. The update seems to be a contrived effort to create an artificial parity between the world's largest and the most vibrant democracy and a country that openly practices state-sponsored terrorism," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in his statement today.

It is a matter of deep concern that this update seems to accord legitimacy to terrorism that is in complete variance with the UN Security Council (UNSC) positions, he added.

Watch: New terror monitoring group for Jammu and Kashmir

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"The entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan is in the illegal and forcible occupation of a part of the Indian state, including the so-called 'Azad Jammu and Kashmir' and 'Gilgit-Baltistan' through aggression. We have repeatedly called on Pakistan to vacate these occupied territories," said Kumar.

The update, by distorting India's policies, practices, and values, has undermined its own credibility, he added.

The UN rights office shared the report with both countries last month.

The state of Jammu and Kashmir has suffered decades of unrest in bloodshed that has left tens of thousands dead, mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has said that a UN report on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is a mere continuation of the earlier "false and motivated narrative". "The report of the OHCHR is merely a continuation of the earlier false and motivated narrative on the situation in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.

India has said that a UN report on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is a mere continuation of the earlier "false and motivated narrative". "The report of the OHCHR is merely a continuation of the earlier false and motivated narrative on the situation in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Its assertions are in violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity and ignore the core issue of cross-border terrorism," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Monday. The report by Office of the High Commission for Human Rights (OHCHR) slammed both India and Pakistan for failing to improve situation in the state, and called for an international probe into violations. Noting that four major armed groups in J&K are believed to be based on the Pakistan side of the Line of Control, the OHCHR report said, "No steps have been taken to resolve the main issues, including a number of highly problematic legal restrictions." This is a follow-up report by OHCHR on its first-ever report on Kashmir released last year. "A situation created by years of cross-border terrorist attacks emanating from Pakistan has been 'analysed' without any reference to its causality. The update seems to be a contrived effort to create an artificial parity between the world's largest and the most vibrant democracy and a country that openly practices state-sponsored terrorism," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in his statement today. It is a matter of deep concern that this update seems to accord legitimacy to terrorism that is in complete variance with the UN Security Council (UNSC) positions, he added. Watch: New terror monitoring group for Jammu and Kashmir × "The entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan is in the illegal and forcible occupation of a part of the Indian state, including the so-called 'Azad Jammu and Kashmir' and 'Gilgit-Baltistan' through aggression. We have repeatedly called on Pakistan to vacate these occupied territories," said Kumar. The update, by distorting India's policies, practices, and values, has undermined its own credibility, he added. The UN rights office shared the report with both countries last month. The state of Jammu and Kashmir has suffered decades of unrest in bloodshed that has left tens of thousands dead, mostly civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

False, motivated narrative: India rejects UN report on Jammu and Kashmir

Even as the closure of Pakistan airspace impacts millions of passengers across the world, India has reacted saying its a unilateral decision by Islamabad to close their airspace and up to them to remove any restrictions.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "The decision to open their airspace has to be taken by them... This is a decision we haven't imposed on Pakistan, this is they have taken, they have to remove restrictions, ball in their court, not ours."

Asked about its cost of closure of Pak airspace, Kumar said, "You are talking about the cost to us, I hope you are aware of the cost to Pakistan."

Its been more than 4 months since Pakistan closed its airspace for any flights using Indian airspace.

Pakistan had closed its airspace in February after it launched an attack on Indian military installation in response to Indian strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Balakot on 26th February.

The united nations listed Pakistan based terror group was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 Indian security personnel.

The closure is impacting many Afghans who travelled to India on a regular basis but now have to pay more to travel. The time taken has also significantly increased from just one and a half hour to more than 3 hours now.

Afghanistan has raised the matter with Islamabad many times, but the country has not changed its position.

Its also impacting Indian students in central Asian countries like Kyrgyzstan due to non-availability and high cost of flights to India. Many International airlines have cancelled flights to India due to the closure of Pakistan airspace.

The closure of Pakistan airspace has caused a loss of&nbsp;$100&nbsp;million to Pakistan.

Various Pakistani civil aviation authorities are losing overflight charges, parking and landing charges etc to the tune of $600,000. In fact, the number of direct&nbsp;flights to Pakistan has also been cancelled and its state-run national airlines PIA-Pakistan International Airlines, which is already under tremendous pressure, is facing more loss of revenue due to the closure of airspace.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Even as the closure of Pakistan airspace impacts millions of passengers across the world, India has reacted saying its a unilateral decision by Islamabad to close their airspace and up to them to remove any restrictions.

Even as the closure of Pakistan airspace impacts millions of passengers across the world, India has reacted saying its a unilateral decision by Islamabad to close their airspace and up to them to remove any restrictions. Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "The decision to open their airspace has to be taken by them... This is a decision we haven't imposed on Pakistan, this is they have taken, they have to remove restrictions, ball in their court, not ours." Asked about its cost of closure of Pak airspace, Kumar said, "You are talking about the cost to us, I hope you are aware of the cost to Pakistan." Its been more than 4 months since Pakistan closed its airspace for any flights using Indian airspace. Pakistan had closed its airspace in February after it launched an attack on Indian military installation in response to Indian strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Balakot on 26th February. The united nations listed Pakistan based terror group was responsible for the February 14 Pulwama terror attack that killed more than 40 Indian security personnel. The closure is impacting many Afghans who travelled to India on a regular basis but now have to pay more to travel. The time taken has also significantly increased from just one and a half hour to more than 3 hours now. Afghanistan has raised the matter with Islamabad many times, but the country has not changed its position. Its also impacting Indian students in central Asian countries like Kyrgyzstan due to non-availability and high cost of flights to India. Many International airlines have cancelled flights to India due to the closure of Pakistan airspace. The closure of Pakistan airspace has caused a loss of $100 million to Pakistan. Various Pakistani civil aviation authorities are losing overflight charges, parking and landing charges etc to the tune of $600,000. In fact, the number of direct flights to Pakistan has also been cancelled and its state-run national airlines PIA-Pakistan International Airlines, which is already under tremendous pressure, is facing more loss of revenue due to the closure of airspace.

Ball in Pakistan's court: India on Pak airspace closure

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media at the weekly briefing.

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) is expected to hold the meeting with senior officials of the commerce department very soon.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

"The Broad trajectory of the relationship between India and the US remains positive. The discussion Prime Minister had with Donald Trump in Osaka was very open and productive. In any multi-dimensional relationship, there are bound to be a certain difference. What we agreed was to continue to talk on all issues," Kumar added in his briefing.

During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo`s visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them. Jaishankar asserted that India is committed to making business easier between the two countries.

Last year, India had announced tariffs in retaliation to higher US import duties on steel and aluminium.

Asserting that great friends are bound to have disagreements, Pompeo, in his remarks, said that Washington and New Delhi need to solve trade issues as there are millions of opportunity before the two countries.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries. "On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon.

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries. "On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media at the weekly briefing. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) is expected to hold the meeting with senior officials of the commerce department very soon. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. "The Broad trajectory of the relationship between India and the US remains positive. The discussion Prime Minister had with Donald Trump in Osaka was very open and productive. In any multi-dimensional relationship, there are bound to be a certain difference. What we agreed was to continue to talk on all issues," Kumar added in his briefing. During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo`s visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them. Jaishankar asserted that India is committed to making business easier between the two countries. Last year, India had announced tariffs in retaliation to higher US import duties on steel and aluminium. Asserting that great friends are bound to have disagreements, Pompeo, in his remarks, said that Washington and New Delhi need to solve trade issues as there are millions of opportunity before the two countries.

India, US officials likely to meet soon to discuss trade difference: MEA

India said on Thursday that it's no "secret" that the man responsible for 1993 Mumbai blast Dawood Ibrahim is in Pakistan and Islamabad continues to be in denial mode when it comes to issues regarding terror.

Responding to WION's question if Dawood is in Pakistan, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "The location of Dawood Ibrahim is not a secret. Time and again for the last several years, we have presented to Pakistan a list of people who are in their country. We have asked repeatedly that he should be handed over. He is a UN proscribed terrorist."

"His (Dawood's) imprint on the Mumbai blasts is very clear for all of us to see. Frankly, many people from media fraternity they have managed to speak to him and its clear linkages are in Pakistan, " Kumar added.

Dawood&nbsp;is wanted for 1993 Mumbai bombings that killed 200 people. A&nbsp;designated a global terrorist, Dawood&nbsp;carries a bounty of $25 million on him.

Kumar said Pakistan continues to be in denial mode when it comes to taking action on terror groups.&nbsp;

"When we look at this episode of his presence and if we see what Pakistan has been trying to convince the international community on steps they claim they have taken against terrorist and terror groups operating from their soil, very interesting you claim to have taken action but when it comes to action against people we have demanded, you ignore and go into denial mode and in fact deny they exist and present in your country," he said referring to Pakistan.

Dawood Ibrahim is known to be living in Karachi and has at least four properties in his name in Karachi, Pakistan including one that is located in Karachi’s posh area of Clifton.

This comes even as US government on Thursday told a UK court that Dawood Ibrahim lives in Pakistan. American investigative agency FBI told Westminster Magistrates' Court during extradition of Jabir Motiwala that India's most wanted is in Pakistan.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal responding to a WION question in a weekly presser said, "Dawood Ibrahim is not, and I repeat, not in Pakistan".

US seeks to extradite Jabir Motiwala, a henchman of Dawood Ibrahim from UK on charges of extortion and money laundering.&nbsp;

Motiwala was arrested by UK last year, and if extradited could face 25 years of jail in US.

India said on Thursday that it's no "secret" that the man responsible for 1993 Mumbai blast Dawood Ibrahim is in Pakistan and Islamabad continues to be in denial mode when it comes to issues regarding terror.

India said on Thursday that it's no "secret" that the man responsible for 1993 Mumbai blast Dawood Ibrahim is in Pakistan and Islamabad continues to be in denial mode when it comes to issues regarding terror. Responding to WION's question if Dawood is in Pakistan, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "The location of Dawood Ibrahim is not a secret. Time and again for the last several years, we have presented to Pakistan a list of people who are in their country. We have asked repeatedly that he should be handed over. He is a UN proscribed terrorist." "His (Dawood's) imprint on the Mumbai blasts is very clear for all of us to see. Frankly, many people from media fraternity they have managed to speak to him and its clear linkages are in Pakistan, " Kumar added. Dawood is wanted for 1993 Mumbai bombings that killed 200 people. A designated a global terrorist, Dawood carries a bounty of $25 million on him. Kumar said Pakistan continues to be in denial mode when it comes to taking action on terror groups. "When we look at this episode of his presence and if we see what Pakistan has been trying to convince the international community on steps they claim they have taken against terrorist and terror groups operating from their soil, very interesting you claim to have taken action but when it comes to action against people we have demanded, you ignore and go into denial mode and in fact deny they exist and present in your country," he said referring to Pakistan. Dawood Ibrahim is known to be living in Karachi and has at least four properties in his name in Karachi, Pakistan including one that is located in Karachi’s posh area of Clifton. This comes even as US government on Thursday told a UK court that Dawood Ibrahim lives in Pakistan. American investigative agency FBI told Westminster Magistrates' Court during extradition of Jabir Motiwala that India's most wanted is in Pakistan. Earlier in the day, Pakistan foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal responding to a WION question in a weekly presser said, "Dawood Ibrahim is not, and I repeat, not in Pakistan". US seeks to extradite Jabir Motiwala, a henchman of Dawood Ibrahim from UK on charges of extortion and money laundering. Motiwala was arrested by UK last year, and if extradited could face 25 years of jail in US.

Dawood Ibrahim location is no secret: India

Focus on defence, security, trade and boosting strategic ties during Pompeo's 3-day visit to India

India on Sunday rejected a US State Department report which made certain critical comments regarding the status of minorities in the country, saying it has "no locus standi" to "pronounce on the state of our citizens` constitutionally protected rights".

In response to a question on the latest `Report on International Religious Freedom` published by the State Department, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar underlined that India is a vibrant democracy where the fundamental rights of all its citizens, including minorities, are protected under the Constitution.

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MEA: The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including its minority communities. We see no locus standi for a foreign entity to pronounce on the state of our citizens’ constitutionally protected rights. 2/2 <a href="https://t.co/HXb24xCY5R">https://t.co/HXb24xCY5R</a>
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"We see no locus standi for a foreign entity/government to pronounce on the state of our citizens` constitutionally protected rights," he said.

Notably, the report was released just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo`s visit to India from June 25.

"India is proud of its secular credentials, its status as the largest democracy and a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to tolerance and inclusion," Kumar said.

"The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including its minority communities," the MEA spokesperson asserted.

"It is widely acknowledged that India is a vibrant democracy where the Constitution provides protection of religious freedom, and where democratic governance and rule of law further promote and protect the fundamental rights."

India on Sunday rejected a US State Department report which made certain critical comments regarding the status of minorities in the country, saying it has "no locus standi" to "pronounce on the state of our citizens` constitutionally protected rights".

India on Sunday rejected a US State Department report which made certain critical comments regarding the status of minorities in the country, saying it has "no locus standi" to "pronounce on the state of our citizens` constitutionally protected rights". In response to a question on the latest `Report on International Religious Freedom` published by the State Department, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar underlined that India is a vibrant democracy where the fundamental rights of all its citizens, including minorities, are protected under the Constitution. MEA: The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including its minority communities. We see no locus standi for a foreign entity to pronounce on the state of our citizens’ constitutionally protected rights. 2/2 https://t.co/HXb24xCY5R — ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2019 × "We see no locus standi for a foreign entity/government to pronounce on the state of our citizens` constitutionally protected rights," he said. Notably, the report was released just ahead of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo`s visit to India from June 25. "India is proud of its secular credentials, its status as the largest democracy and a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to tolerance and inclusion," Kumar said. "The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including its minority communities," the MEA spokesperson asserted. "It is widely acknowledged that India is a vibrant democracy where the Constitution provides protection of religious freedom, and where democratic governance and rule of law further promote and protect the fundamental rights."

External Affairs Ministry rejects US report on minorities' status in India

Indian External Affairs Minister spokesperson on Friday said that India has decided to not send any representative to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-not-to-send-any-representative-for-pak-national-day-reception-this-year-204734">Pakistan National Day reception </a>in New Delhi after Islamabad extended invitation to Hurriyat leaders.

"I can confirm India has decided not to send any representative. This decision was taken after Pakistan decided to invite the Hurriyat representative to the reception," Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a press conference.

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"You are aware of our reaction in the past, most recently in February. We are very clear, any attempt by Pakistan leadership or High Commission to engage with the Hurriyat leadership will not be taken lightly," he added.

India has taken a tough stand against Pakistan's attempt to engage Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

The development comes on the back of Pulwama terror attack on February 14 which killed more than 40 Indian CRPF personnel.

On Pakistan National Day (March 23) Muslim League passed the Lahore resolution calling for the formation of Pakistan on March 23, 1940. Pakistan adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956.&nbsp;

This year Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade in Islamabad.

In the recent past, India had sent the minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Gen V.K. Singh, Former minister of state in the ministry of external affairs MJ Akbar and minister of state in agriculture ministry Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as New Delhi's representative to the national day.

It is part of a diplomatic tradition that a host country is invited to importation national events by any embassy or high commission and the host country deputies a political representative according to the nature of relationship it has.

India has been taking a strong stance against Pakistan's outreach to Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

Indian External Affairs Minister spokesperson on Friday said that India has decided to not send any representative to Pakistan National Day reception in New Delhi after Islamabad extended invitation to Hurriyat leaders.

Indian External Affairs Minister spokesperson on Friday said that India has decided to not send any representative to Pakistan National Day reception in New Delhi after Islamabad extended invitation to Hurriyat leaders. "I can confirm India has decided not to send any representative. This decision was taken after Pakistan decided to invite the Hurriyat representative to the reception," Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a press conference. × "You are aware of our reaction in the past, most recently in February. We are very clear, any attempt by Pakistan leadership or High Commission to engage with the Hurriyat leadership will not be taken lightly," he added. India has taken a tough stand against Pakistan's attempt to engage Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. The development comes on the back of Pulwama terror attack on February 14 which killed more than 40 Indian CRPF personnel. On Pakistan National Day (March 23) Muslim League passed the Lahore resolution calling for the formation of Pakistan on March 23, 1940. Pakistan adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956. This year Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be the chief guest at the Pakistan Day Parade in Islamabad. In the recent past, India had sent the minister of state in the ministry of external affairs Gen V.K. Singh, Former minister of state in the ministry of external affairs MJ Akbar and minister of state in agriculture ministry Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as New Delhi's representative to the national day. It is part of a diplomatic tradition that a host country is invited to importation national events by any embassy or high commission and the host country deputies a political representative according to the nature of relationship it has. India has been taking a strong stance against Pakistan's outreach to Hurriyat. In January this year, India summoned the Pakistani high commissioner Sohail Mahmood after Pakistani Foreign Minister SM Qureshi spoke to Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

Any attempt by Pakistan to engage with Hurriyat will not be taken lightly: India 

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Gokhale is visiting Washington in connection with bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his American counterparts.

During his visit, Gokhale is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress, he said in response to a query on the foreign secretary's visit.

The foreign secretary's visit to the US comes in the backdrop of growing tension between India and Pakistan.

"Foreign Secretary is visiting Washington DC on March 11-13 in connection with the bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his US counterparts, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale and Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson respectively," Kumar said.

"These are regular high-level dialogue mechanisms to review bilateral relations, exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments and coordinate respective positions on issues of common interest," he said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26.

Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans.

The Indian strike on the JeM camp was carried out 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Gokhale is visiting Washington in connection with bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his American counterparts. During his visit, Gokhale is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress, he said in response to a query on the foreign secretary's visit. The foreign secretary's visit to the US comes in the backdrop of growing tension between India and Pakistan. "Foreign Secretary is visiting Washington DC on March 11-13 in connection with the bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his US counterparts, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale and Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson respectively," Kumar said. "These are regular high-level dialogue mechanisms to review bilateral relations, exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments and coordinate respective positions on issues of common interest," he said. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans. The Indian strike on the JeM camp was carried out 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale begins three-day visit to US, likely to meet Pompeo

India has said it is "closely following the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-control-slips-in-afghanistan-amid-us-talks-with-taliban-194042">developments related to peace</a> and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan which have been undertaken by different stakeholders" and it will participate in "all formats of talks" which could "bring peace and security in the region."

Reacting to a question on recent developments in Afghan peace process, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"India supports efforts which can achieve an inclusive political settlement. In this context, it is an important presidential election in Afghanistan which takes place as per schedule."

Last week after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-not-stay-longer-than-necessary-in-afghanistan-nato-chief-193642">United States-Taliban talks in Doha</a>, it was announced that both sides may soon come up with a pact that may see American forces leave Afghanistan after 17 years.

While reiterating its official stand on the Afghan peace process, Kumar said, "We continue to support Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled process."

In 2018 at the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, India participated "non-officially" and sent two former envoys-- former Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha and former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan. Taliban was also present at the meet.

Asked if "participation in all formats" means even if Taliban is present, MEA spokesperson said, "it is speculative. It depends from meeting to meeting. Let us see for which meetings we are being invited and then we will take a decision as to what level and what capacity we participate".

India doesn't engage with the Taliban as an official policy. Russia is again planning another Moscow format talks on Afghanistan with the presence of Taliban which India expects it will be invited.&nbsp;

Raveesh also highlighted the issue of terror emanating from neighbouring countries without taking names and said: "we also feel that for enduring peace and stability in Afghanistan terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries need to be eliminated."

According to the US intelligence community report terror attacks in Afghanistan and India may increase due to Islamabad's resistance to act on terror groups on its territory.

India has said it is "closely following the developments related to peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan which have been undertaken by different stakeholders" and it will participate in "all formats of talks" which could "bring peace and security in the region.

India has said it is "closely following the developments related to peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan which have been undertaken by different stakeholders" and it will participate in "all formats of talks" which could "bring peace and security in the region." Reacting to a question on recent developments in Afghan peace process, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"India supports efforts which can achieve an inclusive political settlement. In this context, it is an important presidential election in Afghanistan which takes place as per schedule." Last week after the United States-Taliban talks in Doha, it was announced that both sides may soon come up with a pact that may see American forces leave Afghanistan after 17 years. While reiterating its official stand on the Afghan peace process, Kumar said, "We continue to support Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled process." In 2018 at the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, India participated "non-officially" and sent two former envoys-- former Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha and former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan TCA Raghavan. Taliban was also present at the meet. Asked if "participation in all formats" means even if Taliban is present, MEA spokesperson said, "it is speculative. It depends from meeting to meeting. Let us see for which meetings we are being invited and then we will take a decision as to what level and what capacity we participate". India doesn't engage with the Taliban as an official policy. Russia is again planning another Moscow format talks on Afghanistan with the presence of Taliban which India expects it will be invited. Raveesh also highlighted the issue of terror emanating from neighbouring countries without taking names and said: "we also feel that for enduring peace and stability in Afghanistan terrorist safe havens and sanctuaries need to be eliminated." According to the US intelligence community report terror attacks in Afghanistan and India may increase due to Islamabad's resistance to act on terror groups on its territory.

Will participate in all formats of talks that bring peace: India on Afghan peace process

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

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

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

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

India Wednesday said it has lodged strong protests with China and Pakistan over a proposed bus service between the two countries through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Wednesday the bus service will be a violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

According to reports, the new bus service will be launched between Lahore in Pakistan and Kashgar in China via Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on November 13.

Kumar said it has been India's consistent and well-known position that the "so-called China-Pakistan 'Boundary Agreement' of 1963 is illegal and invalid, and has never been recognised by the Government of India."

"Therefore, any such bus service through Pakistan Occupied Jammu &amp; Kashmir will be a violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he added.

The MEA spokesperson was responding to media queries regarding the proposed bus service.

The USD 50-billion CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.&nbsp;

India Wednesday said it has lodged strong protests with China and Pakistan over a proposed bus service between the two countries through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

India Wednesday said it has lodged strong protests with China and Pakistan over a proposed bus service between the two countries through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Wednesday the bus service will be a violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. According to reports, the new bus service will be launched between Lahore in Pakistan and Kashgar in China via Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on November 13. Kumar said it has been India's consistent and well-known position that the "so-called China-Pakistan 'Boundary Agreement' of 1963 is illegal and invalid, and has never been recognised by the Government of India." "Therefore, any such bus service through Pakistan Occupied Jammu & Kashmir will be a violation of India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he added. The MEA spokesperson was responding to media queries regarding the proposed bus service. The USD 50-billion CPEC, launched in 2015, is a planned network of roads, railways and energy projects linking China's resource-rich Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region with Pakistan's strategic Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea.

India lodges strong protests with Pakistan, China over PoK bus service

India said Sunday that it was closely following <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-camp-says-will-seize-pm-home-office-if-wickremesinghe-does-not-resign-today-173930">political developments in Sri Lanka</a> and that it hoped that democratic values and constitutional processes would be respected in the island nation.

In fast-paced political developments, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena suspended Parliament on Saturday, a day after sacking Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister.

"India is closely following the recent political developments in Sri Lanka. As a democracy and a close friendly neighbour, we hope that democratic values and constitutional process will be respected," External Affairs Ministry Spokeperson Raveesh Kumar said.

He said India will continue to extend its developmental assistance to the friendly people of Sri Lanka. India has been involved in a number of projects in the island nation.

Sirisena on Saturday suspended Parliament till November 16 after Wickremesinghe sought an emergency session to prove his majority. Former president Rajapaksa was sworn in as the country's new PM on Friday. The political turmoil came amid growing tensions between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe on several policy matters. 
Reacting sharply to his sacking, Wickremesinghe asserted that the swearing-in of Rajapaksa is "illegal and unconstitutional" and he will prove his majority in Parliament.

The political developments unfolded after Sirisena's broader political front UPFA announced that it has decided to quit the current unity government with Wickremesinghe's UNP.

The unity government was formed in 2015 when Sirisena was elected President with Wickremesinghe's support, ending a nearly decade-long rule by Rajapaksa. 
Rajapaksa's return to power ends a more than three-year-old coalition government that was formed by Sirisena and Wickremesinghe on a promise to combat corruption and financial irregularities.

The unity government was thrown into a crisis after Rajapaksa's new party pulled off a stunning victory in local elections in February seen as a referendum on the ruling alliance.

Sri Lanka nearly faced economic sanctions from the West over Rajapakse's military crackdown on the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE sought a separate Tamil homeland in the northern and eastern provinces of the island nation for nearly 30 years before its collapse in 2009 after the Sri Lankan Army killed the outfit's supreme leader Velupillai Prabhakaran.&nbsp;

India said Sunday that it was closely following political developments in Sri Lanka and that it hoped that democratic values and constitutional processes would be respected in the island nation.

India said Sunday that it was closely following political developments in Sri Lanka and that it hoped that democratic values and constitutional processes would be respected in the island nation. In fast-paced political developments, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena suspended Parliament on Saturday, a day after sacking Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister. "India is closely following the recent political developments in Sri Lanka. As a democracy and a close friendly neighbour, we hope that democratic values and constitutional process will be respected," External Affairs Ministry Spokeperson Raveesh Kumar said. He said India will continue to extend its developmental assistance to the friendly people of Sri Lanka. India has been involved in a number of projects in the island nation. Sirisena on Saturday suspended Parliament till November 16 after Wickremesinghe sought an emergency session to prove his majority. Former president Rajapaksa was sworn in as the country's new PM on Friday. The political turmoil came amid growing tensions between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe on several policy matters. Reacting sharply to his sacking, Wickremesinghe asserted that the swearing-in of Rajapaksa is "illegal and unconstitutional" and he will prove his majority in Parliament. The political developments unfolded after Sirisena's broader political front UPFA announced that it has decided to quit the current unity government with Wickremesinghe's UNP. The unity government was formed in 2015 when Sirisena was elected President with Wickremesinghe's support, ending a nearly decade-long rule by Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa's return to power ends a more than three-year-old coalition government that was formed by Sirisena and Wickremesinghe on a promise to combat corruption and financial irregularities. The unity government was thrown into a crisis after Rajapaksa's new party pulled off a stunning victory in local elections in February seen as a referendum on the ruling alliance. Sri Lanka nearly faced economic sanctions from the West over Rajapakse's military crackdown on the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE sought a separate Tamil homeland in the northern and eastern provinces of the island nation for nearly 30 years before its collapse in 2009 after the Sri Lankan Army killed the outfit's supreme leader Velupillai Prabhakaran.

Hope democratic values will be respected: India on political turmoil in Sri Lanka

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

Pakistan's "deceitful stand" on dialogue, while supporting terror and violence, "stands exposed" to the whole world, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters while replying to queries on Khan's remarks.&nbsp;

Referring to incidents of violence in Kashmir, Khan, in a tweet, said that time has come for<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-calls-for-dialogue-to-resolve-kashmir-issue-172803"> India to realise that it must move to resolve the Kashmir dispute</a> through dialogue in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

"Strongly condemn the new cycle of killings of innocent Kashmiris....By Indian security forces," he tweeted.

Responding to Khan's remarks, the MEA Spokesperson said the Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. He said Islamabad should stop supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours.

"The remarks made by Pakistan's Prime Minister in his tweet today are deeply regrettable. Instead of making comments on India's internal affairs, Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues.

"Pakistan would serve the interest of the people of the region by taking credible action against all kind of support to terrorism and terror infrastructure from all territories under its control rather than supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours," Kumar said.

It is not the first time Khan has spoken about Kashmir.

In his victory speech after the July elections, Khan expressed his willingness to improve Pakistan's ties with India and said that his government would like the leaders of the two sides to resolve all disputes, including the "core issue" of Kashmir, through talks.&nbsp;

He had said good India-Pakistan relations will be beneficial for the entire region.

A meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan was announced on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly. However, in September, New Delhi called it off, citing killings of Indian security personnel by Pakistan-based entities and the release of Pakistani postage stamps "glorifying a terrorist and terrorism".&nbsp;

India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and Pakistan is in illegal occupation of a part of the state's territory. &nbsp;

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

Terming as "deeply regrettable" Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's remarks on Kashmir, India on Monday said that instead of making comments on internal affairs of another country, Islamabad should take "credible action" to dismantle terror infrastructure operating from its soil. Pakistan's "deceitful stand" on dialogue, while supporting terror and violence, "stands exposed" to the whole world, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters while replying to queries on Khan's remarks. Referring to incidents of violence in Kashmir, Khan, in a tweet, said that time has come for India to realise that it must move to resolve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. "Strongly condemn the new cycle of killings of innocent Kashmiris....By Indian security forces," he tweeted. Responding to Khan's remarks, the MEA Spokesperson said the Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. He said Islamabad should stop supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours. "The remarks made by Pakistan's Prime Minister in his tweet today are deeply regrettable. Instead of making comments on India's internal affairs, Pakistan leadership should look inwards and address its own issues. "Pakistan would serve the interest of the people of the region by taking credible action against all kind of support to terrorism and terror infrastructure from all territories under its control rather than supporting and glorifying terrorists and terror activities against India and its other neighbours," Kumar said. It is not the first time Khan has spoken about Kashmir. In his victory speech after the July elections, Khan expressed his willingness to improve Pakistan's ties with India and said that his government would like the leaders of the two sides to resolve all disputes, including the "core issue" of Kashmir, through talks. He had said good India-Pakistan relations will be beneficial for the entire region. A meeting between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan was announced on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly. However, in September, New Delhi called it off, citing killings of Indian security personnel by Pakistan-based entities and the release of Pakistani postage stamps "glorifying a terrorist and terrorism". India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and Pakistan is in illegal occupation of a part of the state's territory.

India slams Imran's remarks on Kashmir, asks Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure on its soil

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/antiguan-prime-minister-government-committed-extraditing-choksi-ministry-external">Antiguan Prime Minister, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/antiguan-prime-minister-government-committed-extraditing-choksi-ministry-external">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/antiguan-prime-minister-government-committed-extraditing-choksi-ministry-external"> committed to extraditing Choksi: Ministry of External Affairs</a>

Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Wednesday shared information on fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi's extradition to India, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-supreme-court-pick-kavanaugh-says-could-change-mind-167882">Trump defends Supreme Court pick Kavanaugh but says could change </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-supreme-court-pick-kavanaugh-says-could-change-mind-167882">mind</a>

US President Donald Trump praised his Supreme Court pick Brett Kavanaugh on Wednesday but said he would be open to withdrawing his nomination if he finds sexual assault allegations against him to be credible.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-verdict-babri-masjid-ram-mandir-today-timeline-key-events-167874">SC verdict on Babri Masjid-Ram Mandir today: A timeline of key events&nbsp;</a>

The Supreme Court is set to pronounce its landmark judgement today on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute.&nbsp;

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer will give its verdict on a batch of pleas by Muslim groups on title dispute seeking reconsideration of the 1994 verdict that stated that a mosque was not integral to Islam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-foreign-minister-claims-he-had-informal-meeting-trump-white-house-says-only">Pak foreign minister claims he had 'informal meeting' with Trump, US says only handshake&nbsp;</a>

US President Donald Trump had a handshake with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a luncheon in New York, the White House said, but Qureshi described it as an "informal meeting" when they discussed bilateral ties.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-abe-agree-two-way-trade-talks-japan-dodges-us-auto-tariffs-167878">Trump, Abe </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-abe-agree-two-way-trade-talks-japan-dodges-us-auto-tariffs-167878">agree</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-abe-agree-two-way-trade-talks-japan-dodges-us-auto-tariffs-167878"> two-way trade talks, Japan dodges US auto tariffs</a>

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed on Wednesday to start trade talks in an arrangement that, for now, protects Japanese automakers from further tariffs, seen as a major threat to the export-dependent economy.

Antiguan Prime Minister, government committed to extraditing Choksi: Ministry of External Affairs Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Wednesday shared information on fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi's extradition to India, news agency ANI reported.

Antiguan Prime Minister, government committed to extraditing Choksi: Ministry of External Affairs Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, on Wednesday shared information on fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi's extradition to India, news agency ANI reported. Trump defends Supreme Court pick Kavanaugh but says could change mind US President Donald Trump praised his Supreme Court pick Brett Kavanaugh on Wednesday but said he would be open to withdrawing his nomination if he finds sexual assault allegations against him to be credible. SC verdict on Babri Masjid-Ram Mandir today: A timeline of key events The Supreme Court is set to pronounce its landmark judgement today on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer will give its verdict on a batch of pleas by Muslim groups on title dispute seeking reconsideration of the 1994 verdict that stated that a mosque was not integral to Islam. Pak foreign minister claims he had 'informal meeting' with Trump, US says only handshake US President Donald Trump had a handshake with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a luncheon in New York, the White House said, but Qureshi described it as an "informal meeting" when they discussed bilateral ties. Trump, Abe agree two-way trade talks, Japan dodges US auto tariffs US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed on Wednesday to start trade talks in an arrangement that, for now, protects Japanese automakers from further tariffs, seen as a major threat to the export-dependent economy.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India confirms meeting of Indo-Pak Foreign ministers 

India is waiting for Malaysia's response on the extradition of Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) president and preacher Zakir Naik, as informed in Ministry of External Affairs'&nbsppress conference on Thursday.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "India and Malaysia have an extradition treaty and we have made an extradition request to Malaysia, we are waiting for their response in this matter."

He further said that the legal process for the same is near completion.

"Once it is complete, we will make an official request to Malaysian government very soon to send back Zakir Naik to India" Kumar said.

Earlier in March, the Indian government sought Naik's extradition from Malaysia accusing him of inciting youth to take up jihad.

There were reports that Naik had been given permanent residency in Malaysia.

Earlier in 2017, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against Naik in a special court in Mumbai as part of which it said it would explore all the legal options to bring Naik back to India.&nbsp

There were reports that Naik had been given permanent residency in Malaysia

India is waiting for Malaysia's response on the extradition of Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) president and preacher Zakir Naik, as informed in Ministry of External Affairs'&nbsppress conference on Thursday. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "India and Malaysia have an extradition treaty and we have made an extradition request to Malaysia, we are waiting for their response in this matter." He further said that the legal process for the same is near completion. "Once it is complete, we will make an official request to Malaysian government very soon to send back Zakir Naik to India" Kumar said. Earlier in March, the Indian government sought Naik's extradition from Malaysia accusing him of inciting youth to take up jihad. There were reports that Naik had been given permanent residency in Malaysia. Earlier in 2017, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against Naik in a special court in Mumbai as part of which it said it would explore all the legal options to bring Naik back to India.

India waiting for Malaysia's response on Zakir Naik's extradition

An orchid was named after Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark his visit to the National Orchid Garden of Singapore on Saturday. Modi is here on a three-day visit.

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"Dendrobrium Narendra Modi - an orchid named after PM @narendramodi on the occasion of his visit to the National Orchid Garden in Singapore," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

"A strong and robust tropical orchid which produces upright inflorences up to 38 cm long with 14-20 well-arranged flowers," he said.&nbsp;

The distinguished and well twisted petals of the orchid are mahogany, while sepals are reddish brown and lined with a fine margin. They are beautifully complimented with an attractive dark purple lip.&nbsp;

Later, the prime minister visited Singapore's oldest Hindu temple Sri Mariamman and participated in prayers.

"Reinforcing our strong cultural connect, PM @narendramodi visited the Mariamman Temple," Kumar said.

Built in 1827, the temple was constructed for worship by immigrants from the Nagapatnam and Cuddalore districts of South India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for her power in curing epidemic illnesses and diseases. The temple is located in the heart of Chinatown.&nbsp;

He also visited Chulia mosque in Chinatown which was built by Chulia Muslim merchants from India's Coromandal Coast under the leadership of Anser Sahib. Demonstrating the age-old people-to-people contact between our two countries. This is one of the earliest mosques in Singapore. The mosque was established in 1826.

The Prime Minister also visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.

"Shared Buddhist heritage! PM @narendramodi visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Singapore accompanied by the Culture Minister Grace Fu Hai Yien," Kumar said.

<img alt="DeqKDMHV4AA0cCZ_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="552" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/DeqKDMHV4AA0cCZ_0.jpg" width="736" />

An orchid was named after Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark his visit to the National Orchid Garden of Singapore on Saturday. Modi is here on a three-day visit

An orchid was named after Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark his visit to the National Orchid Garden of Singapore on Saturday. Modi is here on a three-day visit. × "Dendrobrium Narendra Modi - an orchid named after PM @narendramodi on the occasion of his visit to the National Orchid Garden in Singapore," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. "A strong and robust tropical orchid which produces upright inflorences up to 38 cm long with 14-20 well-arranged flowers," he said. The distinguished and well twisted petals of the orchid are mahogany, while sepals are reddish brown and lined with a fine margin. They are beautifully complimented with an attractive dark purple lip. Later, the prime minister visited Singapore's oldest Hindu temple Sri Mariamman and participated in prayers. "Reinforcing our strong cultural connect, PM @narendramodi visited the Mariamman Temple," Kumar said. Built in 1827, the temple was constructed for worship by immigrants from the Nagapatnam and Cuddalore districts of South India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for her power in curing epidemic illnesses and diseases. The temple is located in the heart of Chinatown. He also visited Chulia mosque in Chinatown which was built by Chulia Muslim merchants from India's Coromandal Coast under the leadership of Anser Sahib. Demonstrating the age-old people-to-people contact between our two countries. This is one of the earliest mosques in Singapore. The mosque was established in 1826. The Prime Minister also visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. "Shared Buddhist heritage! PM @narendramodi visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Singapore accompanied by the Culture Minister Grace Fu Hai Yien," Kumar said.

To mark Modi's Singapore visit, orchid named after PM Narendra Modi

It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and &#39;&#39;We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,&#39;&#39; said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood.

It&#39;s not a question of recall. It&#39;s routine, he added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-high-commissioner-to-india-summoned-by-pak-government-to-report-on-harassment-row-35911">Our ambassadors do come for consultation</a>&nbsp;and there is no linkage, he said.&nbsp;

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I am surprised why is this question being raised. He has been called for consultation. This is pretty normal &amp; routine. It is not a recall: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood <a href="https://t.co/TbpGtcLMmw">pic.twitter.com/TbpGtcLMmw</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/974234509666287618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier Pakistan government called its&nbsp;High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Raveesh Kumar said&nbsp;&#39;&#39;We want that our Commission in Islamabad functions smoothly, the officials are not harassed, their work is not obstructed and&nbsp;that the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 is abided by.&#39;&#39;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;We have seen reports on issues raised by Pakistan. We will not like to respond through media but will take it up diplomatic channels.We have raised this through diplomatic channels in the past for the safety and security of our envoys,&#39;&#39; he added.

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We won&#39;t give details of the issue which we&#39;ve taken up with Pak Govt. This is something which should be taken up through established diplomatic channels &amp; not published in media. We expect them to look into &amp; resolve those issues: MEA Spox on Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/saRlLGXJSE">pic.twitter.com/saRlLGXJSE</a>
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On Wednesday, the Pakistan government had summoned India&#39;s Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over the issue.

JP Singh was summoned by Director General (South Asia &amp; SAARC) Mohammad Faisal and a strong protest was lodged at the &quot;maltreatment being meted out to the officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi&quot;, according to a statement by the Office of Spokesperson of Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry

A demarche was earlier made to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and the external affairs ministry in Delhi, a diplomatic source was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

The Pakistan High Commission had lodged complaints of harassment with the external affairs ministry last week.

India&#39;s external affairs ministry had assured Pak officials of investing.

&nbsp;

Pakistan government called Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi

It is pretty normal for any High Commissioner to go back for consultation and ''We have no comments to offer on why he has gone back,'' said Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood. It's not a question of recall. It's routine, he added. Our ambassadors do come for consultation and there is no linkage, he said. I am surprised why is this question being raised. He has been called for consultation. This is pretty normal & routine. It is not a recall: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on Pakistan High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood pic.twitter.com/TbpGtcLMmw — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2018 × Earlier Pakistan government called its High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood for consultation over the alleged harassment of officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Speaking to reporters, Raveesh Kumar said ''We want that our Commission in Islamabad functions smoothly, the officials are not harassed, their work is not obstructed and that the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 is abided by.'' ''We have seen reports on issues raised by Pakistan. We will not like to respond through media but will take it up diplomatic channels.We have raised this through diplomatic channels in the past for the safety and security of our envoys,'' he added. We won't give details of the issue which we've taken up with Pak Govt. This is something which should be taken up through established diplomatic channels & not published in media. We expect them to look into & resolve those issues: MEA Spox on Indian High Commissioner in Pakistan pic.twitter.com/saRlLGXJSE — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2018 × On Wednesday, the Pakistan government had summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner J P Singh over the issue. JP Singh was summoned by Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal and a strong protest was lodged at the "maltreatment being meted out to the officials and families of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi", according to a statement by the Office of Spokesperson of Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry A demarche was earlier made to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and the external affairs ministry in Delhi, a diplomatic source was quoted as saying by the Dawn. The Pakistan High Commission had lodged complaints of harassment with the external affairs ministry last week. India's external affairs ministry had assured Pak officials of investing.

Routine, not recall: MEA on Pak High Commissioner to India being called back

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

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

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

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

&nbsp;India has said that it did not impose any restrictions on pilgrims travelling to Pakistan amid heightened tensions between the two nations following a string of terror attacks in the Kashmir Valley.

&quot;Of course not,&quot; External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday when asked if India had imposed any restriction on pilgrims.

The clarification comes after Pakistan reportedly blamed India for withdrawing visa applications of pilgrims from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

'Of course not,' External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Friday when asked if India had imposed any restriction on pilgrims

India has said that it did not impose any restrictions on pilgrims travelling to Pakistan amid heightened tensions between the two nations following a string of terror attacks in the Kashmir Valley. "Of course not," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday when asked if India had imposed any restriction on pilgrims. The clarification comes after Pakistan reportedly blamed India for withdrawing visa applications of pilgrims from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

Not imposed any restriction on pilgrims traveling to Pakistan: Ministry of External Affairs

India today said it was waiting to see what steps the Maldives government would take after the 15-day Emergency declared by President Abdulla Yameen gets over in the next few days.

External Affairs Minister spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India had called on the government of Maldives to lift the state of Emergency and restore the democratic process, including the functioning of judiciary, which is &quot;free of intimidation&quot;.

&quot;We have noticed that the Emergency in Maldives is valid for the next few days and we will wait to see the steps which will be taken by the government of Maldives after this,&quot; Kumar said.

Maldives, an archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean, plunged into turmoil after Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency on February 5, amid a standoff between the president and the Supreme Court.

When asked about China, which has opposed any military intervention in the Maldives, Kumar said India had made its stand clear on it.

&quot;We note that China said the Maldives government has the ability to protect the security of Chinese personnel and institutions in Maldives. We hope that all countries can play a constructive role in Maldives, instead of doing the opposite,&quot; Kumar said.

India urged Maldives government to lift the Emergency and restore the democratic process

India today said it was waiting to see what steps the Maldives government would take after the 15-day Emergency declared by President Abdulla Yameen gets over in the next few days. External Affairs Minister spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said India had called on the government of Maldives to lift the state of Emergency and restore the democratic process, including the functioning of judiciary, which is "free of intimidation". "We have noticed that the Emergency in Maldives is valid for the next few days and we will wait to see the steps which will be taken by the government of Maldives after this," Kumar said. Maldives, an archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean, plunged into turmoil after Yameen declared a 15-day state of emergency on February 5, amid a standoff between the president and the Supreme Court. When asked about China, which has opposed any military intervention in the Maldives, Kumar said India had made its stand clear on it. "We note that China said the Maldives government has the ability to protect the security of Chinese personnel and institutions in Maldives. We hope that all countries can play a constructive role in Maldives, instead of doing the opposite," Kumar said.

India awaiting Maldives' action post Emergency

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday that they were not aware of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-nirav-modi-left-india-on-january-1-say-officials-32966" target="_blank">location of Nirav Modi</a>.

MEA&nbsp; Raveesh Kumar said &quot; I can say with confidence that this gentleman is not in touch with any of our officials and frankly at this stage, we are not aware of his location&quot;.

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I can say with confidence that this gentleman is not in touch with any of our officials &amp; frankly at this stage we are not aware about his location: Raveesh Kumar, MEA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NiravModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NiravModi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PNBFraudCase?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PNBFraudCase</a> <a href="https://t.co/1fMUamd1pg">pic.twitter.com/1fMUamd1pg</a>
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Billionaire jewellery designer Nirav Modi left the country on January 1 much before the CBI received a complaint from Punjab National Bank on January 29 about a Rs 280-crore fraud.

His wife Ami, a US citizen, and business partner Mehul Choksi also left the country on January 6, while his brother Nishal left on January 1.&nbsp;

A lookout notice was issued&nbsp;against all the four after registering an FIR.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/passports-of-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-suspended-mea-gives-one-week-to-respond-33087" target="_blank">MEA also suspended with immediate effect the passports </a>of diamantaire Nirav Modi and his business partner Mehul Choksi for four weeks.

The ministry gave them one week to respond why their passports should not be revoked.

MEA Raveesh Kumar said 'I can say with confidence that this gentleman is not in touch with any of our officials and frankly at this stage, we are not aware of his location'

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday that they were not aware of the location of Nirav Modi. MEA Raveesh Kumar said " I can say with confidence that this gentleman is not in touch with any of our officials and frankly at this stage, we are not aware of his location". I can say with confidence that this gentleman is not in touch with any of our officials & frankly at this stage we are not aware about his location: Raveesh Kumar, MEA #NiravModi #PNBFraudCase pic.twitter.com/1fMUamd1pg — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2018 × Billionaire jewellery designer Nirav Modi left the country on January 1 much before the CBI received a complaint from Punjab National Bank on January 29 about a Rs 280-crore fraud. His wife Ami, a US citizen, and business partner Mehul Choksi also left the country on January 6, while his brother Nishal left on January 1. A lookout notice was issued against all the four after registering an FIR. The MEA also suspended with immediate effect the passports of diamantaire Nirav Modi and his business partner Mehul Choksi for four weeks. The ministry gave them one week to respond why their passports should not be revoked.

No official is in touch with Nirav Modi: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat.

Prime Minister Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah.

The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the compound of Presidential Headquarters (Al-Muqata&#39;a).

After paying homage to Yasser Arafat at the Mausoleum, the Prime Minister will take a short tour, accompanied by Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum.

Prime Minister Modi, who is on his maiden trip to Palestine, will be received by President Mahmoud Abbas before the ceremonial welcome in the compound of the Presidential Headquarters, also known as Muqata&#39;a.

The Presidential Headquarters in Ramallah is the compound that encompasses the Office of the President, offices of Advisors to President, in addition to the headquarters of the Presidential Guard.

The Prime Minister on his first day of the three-nation tour will hold meetings and exchange agreements with ministers in Ramallah in the West Bank.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Prime Minister Modi&#39;s visit to Ramallah in Palestine was the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister there.

Prime Minister Modi&#39;s visit to Palestine comes a month after India hosted Israel&#39;s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which is his transit to Palestine. The prime minister&#39;s office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit.

After Palestine, the Prime Minister would visit United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman.

The Prime Minister will leave for the UAE tomorrow and then on the final leg, to Muscat on February 11, before returning to Delhi the following day.

Prior to Prime Minister Modi, former President Pranab Mukherjee and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had visited Palestine in October 2015 and January 2016 respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat. Prime Minister Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah. The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the compound of Presidential Headquarters (Al-Muqata'a). After paying homage to Yasser Arafat at the Mausoleum, the Prime Minister will take a short tour, accompanied by Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum. Prime Minister Modi, who is on his maiden trip to Palestine, will be received by President Mahmoud Abbas before the ceremonial welcome in the compound of the Presidential Headquarters, also known as Muqata'a. The Presidential Headquarters in Ramallah is the compound that encompasses the Office of the President, offices of Advisors to President, in addition to the headquarters of the Presidential Guard. The Prime Minister on his first day of the three-nation tour will hold meetings and exchange agreements with ministers in Ramallah in the West Bank. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Prime Minister Modi's visit to Ramallah in Palestine was the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister there. Prime Minister Modi's visit to Palestine comes a month after India hosted Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which is his transit to Palestine. The prime minister's office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit. After Palestine, the Prime Minister would visit United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. The Prime Minister will leave for the UAE tomorrow and then on the final leg, to Muscat on February 11, before returning to Delhi the following day. Prior to Prime Minister Modi, former President Pranab Mukherjee and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had visited Palestine in October 2015 and January 2016 respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Palestine: All you need to know

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

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

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

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

Panicked gripped the Indian embassy in Kabul as a rocket landed on its premises Monday night causing minor damage to a structure at the rear of the embassy compound.&nbsp;

According to Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, the incident caused no fire or casualties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;Our Charge d&#39; Affairs informs that all Embassy employees are safe,&#39;&#39; he added.

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A rocket landed in the premises of our Embassy in Kabul a while ago causing minor damage to a structure at rear side of the Embassy compound. No fire or casualties. Our Charge d&#39; Affaires informs that all Embassy employees are safe.
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/952939973451268097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Till now, no outfit has claimed the attack, even though the Taliban and Haqqani Network have carried out similar strikes in the past.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also tweeted about the incident.&nbsp;

She said the rocket clipped the top of the three-storied ITBP barracks. But that there were no casualties and that all Indians and staff were safe.&nbsp;

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Kabul - A rocket has landed in our Chancery compound in Kabul. The rocket has clipped the top of the three storied ITBP barracks. There are no casualties. All Indians and staff are safe.
&mdash; Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/952947647706316801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, said there were no casulties

Panicked gripped the Indian embassy in Kabul as a rocket landed on its premises Monday night causing minor damage to a structure at the rear of the embassy compound. According to Raveesh Kumar, official spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, the incident caused no fire or casualties. ''Our Charge d' Affairs informs that all Embassy employees are safe,'' he added. A rocket landed in the premises of our Embassy in Kabul a while ago causing minor damage to a structure at rear side of the Embassy compound. No fire or casualties. Our Charge d' Affaires informs that all Embassy employees are safe. — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 15, 2018 × Till now, no outfit has claimed the attack, even though the Taliban and Haqqani Network have carried out similar strikes in the past. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also tweeted about the incident. She said the rocket clipped the top of the three-storied ITBP barracks. But that there were no casualties and that all Indians and staff were safe. Kabul - A rocket has landed in our Chancery compound in Kabul. The rocket has clipped the top of the three storied ITBP barracks. There are no casualties. All Indians and staff are safe. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 15, 2018 ×

Rocket lands on Indian embassy premises in Kabul, no casualties reported

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met his Pakistani counterpart Lt Gen Nasser Khan Janjua (retd) in Thailand last month.

During the NSA-level talks, India reiterated its stand to Pakistan that terrorism and talks cannot go together and raised the issue of cross-border firing, the MEA said.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the focus of talks between India and Pakistan was on cross-border terror.&nbsp;

&quot;India and Pakistan have a dialogue process and we have said terror and talks cannot go together. However, there are other dialogue mechanisms like at the DGMO level or between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers.

&quot;Similarly, the NSA-level engagement is part of operational-level talks. We have said terror and talks cannot go together, but talks on terror can definitely go ahead,&quot; Kumar said.

India today made it clear that for talks with Pakistan to go ahead, there has to be a conducive environment and atmosphere free of terror.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the focus of talks between India and Pakistan was on cross-border terror

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met his Pakistani counterpart Lt Gen Nasser Khan Janjua (retd) in Thailand last month. During the NSA-level talks, India reiterated its stand to Pakistan that terrorism and talks cannot go together and raised the issue of cross-border firing, the MEA said. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the focus of talks between India and Pakistan was on cross-border terror. "India and Pakistan have a dialogue process and we have said terror and talks cannot go together. However, there are other dialogue mechanisms like at the DGMO level or between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers. "Similarly, the NSA-level engagement is part of operational-level talks. We have said terror and talks cannot go together, but talks on terror can definitely go ahead," Kumar said. India today made it clear that for talks with Pakistan to go ahead, there has to be a conducive environment and atmosphere free of terror.

Talks on terror can go ahead: India told Pakistan in NSA-level talks

The mother and wife of Kulbhushan Jadhav on Tuesday met External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj at her residence in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The meeting took place a day after the two officially went to Pakistan to meet their son and husband respectively. &nbsp;

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Mother and wife of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KulbhushanJadhav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KulbhushanJadhav</a> leave from residence of EAM Sushma Swaraj in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/FFWIb4HcvJ">pic.twitter.com/FFWIb4HcvJ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/945545635175866369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar were also present at the meeting.

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Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar at the residence of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/C5MCnuUz6Z">pic.twitter.com/C5MCnuUz6Z</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/945544453837660160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Jadhav, the Indian national sentenced to death in Pakistan, was allowed to meet his family, from behind a glass barrier at the Pakistan foreign ministry in Islamabad.

It was Jadhav&#39;s first meeting with his family, more than a year after he was arrested by the Pakistani Army over alleged espionage and spying activities in March last year.

Mother Avanti and wife Chetankul Jadhav were accompanied to the ministry by Indian deputy high Commissioner JP Singh and three Indian foreign ministry officials.&nbsp;

Only Jadhav&rsquo;s family was allowed into the room where he was sitting, while Singh and other officials monitored the meeting from outside the room.

The meeting lasted for 40 minutes.

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

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

Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife, mother meet Sushma Swaraj

Pakistan has justified the release of Mumbai terror attack mastermind and JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, claiming that Islamabad was committed to the implementation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)&nbsp;sanctions regime on terrorists.&nbsp;

Hafiz Saeed,&nbsp;who was freed by Pakistan on&nbsp;November&nbsp;24, is the&nbsp;founder of the terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba and the head of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah. He has&nbsp;10 million dollars of American bounty on his head for terror activities and is also a UN and US-designated terrorist.

Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan was committed to the implementation of UNSC 1267 sanctions regime and has taken several steps in this regard while responding to the comments made by the MEA.

&quot;The (MEA) spokesperson took exception to self-serving insinuations,&quot; Faisal said in a statement issued late last night.

Faisal said that courts in Pakistan, pursuant to their constitutional duty, were determined to uphold rule of law and due process for all citizens of Pakistan.

Legal processes were anchored in rule of law, not dictates of politics and posturing, he added.

&quot;It is in the interest of all States to speak and act in a manner that is consistent with the imperatives of adhering to rule of law at the national and international levels,&quot; Faisal said.

He said that Pakistan&#39;s resolve, actions, and successes in the fight against terrorism, terrorist violence and terrorists are unmatched in the world.

&quot;Pakistan condemns and opposes all forms of terrorism by any individual or group,&quot; Faisal further said.

&quot;Saeed&#39;s release confirmed once again the lack of seriousness by the Pakistan government in bringing to justice perpetrators of terrorism, including individuals and entities designated by the UN&quot;, said Raveesh Kumar, the spokesperson of Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).&nbsp;

&quot;It also appears to be an attempt by the Pakistani system to mainstream proscribed terrorists. Pakistan has not changed its policy of shielding and supporting non-state actors and its true face is visible for all to see,&quot; the external affairs ministry spokesperson added.

Hafiz Saeed was under house arrest for 297 days since January.

Saeed&#39;s release after midnight came ahead of the 9th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan has justified the release of Mumbai terror attack mastermind and JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, claiming that Islamabad was committed to the implementation of UNSC sanctions regime on terrorists.?

Pakistan has justified the release of Mumbai terror attack mastermind and JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, claiming that Islamabad was committed to the implementation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions regime on terrorists. Hafiz Saeed, who was freed by Pakistan on November 24, is the founder of the terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba and the head of the Jamaat-ud-Dawah. He has 10 million dollars of American bounty on his head for terror activities and is also a UN and US-designated terrorist. Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan was committed to the implementation of UNSC 1267 sanctions regime and has taken several steps in this regard while responding to the comments made by the MEA. "The (MEA) spokesperson took exception to self-serving insinuations," Faisal said in a statement issued late last night. Faisal said that courts in Pakistan, pursuant to their constitutional duty, were determined to uphold rule of law and due process for all citizens of Pakistan. Legal processes were anchored in rule of law, not dictates of politics and posturing, he added. "It is in the interest of all States to speak and act in a manner that is consistent with the imperatives of adhering to rule of law at the national and international levels," Faisal said. He said that Pakistan's resolve, actions, and successes in the fight against terrorism, terrorist violence and terrorists are unmatched in the world. "Pakistan condemns and opposes all forms of terrorism by any individual or group," Faisal further said. "Saeed's release confirmed once again the lack of seriousness by the Pakistan government in bringing to justice perpetrators of terrorism, including individuals and entities designated by the UN", said Raveesh Kumar, the spokesperson of Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). "It also appears to be an attempt by the Pakistani system to mainstream proscribed terrorists. Pakistan has not changed its policy of shielding and supporting non-state actors and its true face is visible for all to see," the external affairs ministry spokesperson added. Hafiz Saeed was under house arrest for 297 days since January. Saeed's release after midnight came ahead of the 9th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed. (With inputs from PTI)

Pakistan justifies Hafiz Saeed's release

The United State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert has&nbsp;condemned the Egypt mosque attack and stated it as an &#39;act of evil.&#39;

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/several-injured-in-mosque-attack-in-egypt-25033">attack took place</a> near the provincial capital of El-Arish during weekly prayers on Thursday.

US has also expressed its condolences to the families and friends of the victims and wished everyone a speedy recovery.&nbsp;

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-images-of-mosque-in-egypts-sinai-province-6954">Images of mosque in Egypt&#39;s Sinai province</a>

&nbsp;Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar also condemned the attack via Twitter.&nbsp;

&quot;Government of Indian strongly condemns the heinous act of terrorism that has claimed innocent lives in Bir-al-Abed, North Sinai in Egypt today. In this hour of tragedy, the government and the people of India stand by the government and the people of Egypt,&quot; Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.&nbsp;

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Government of Indian strongly condemns the heinous act of 
terrorism that has claimed innocent lives in Bir-al-Abed, North Sinai in Egypt today. In this hour of tragedy, the goverment and the people of India stand by the government and the people of Egypt./1
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/934097179123130369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those affected in this attack. 
This incident is another stark reminder of the need to develop a global strategy to fight this menace of terrorism./2
&mdash; Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/934098536135770112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;This terror attack on those at prayer is an unconscionable act of evil. We will continue to stand with Egypt and the Egyptian people as they face the scourge of terrorism,&quot; State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement.

Trump had further tweeted that he will be contacting the President of Egypt soon to talk about the attack and has claimed to become &#39;TOUGHER AND SMARTED THAN EVER.&#39;

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Will be calling the President of Egypt in a short while to discuss the tragic terrorist attack, with so much loss of life. We have to get TOUGHER AND SMARTER than ever before, and we will. Need the WALL, need the BAN! God bless the people of Egypt.
&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/934131805409697792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&quot;There can be no tolerance for barbaric groups that claim to act in the name of a faith but attack houses of worship and murder the innocent and defenceless while at prayer,&quot; White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement that followed Trump&#39;s tweet.&nbsp;

The death toll in the mosque attack in Egpyt&#39;s northern Sinai province rose to 235 with over 125 injured, state TV reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, assailants had surrounded the mosque with &quot;all-terrain vehicles&quot; then planted a bomb outside.

No organization has claimed responsibility for the attack&nbsp;yet.&nbsp;

Expressing deepest condolences to the families and friends of those affected in this attack, India stated that this incident is another stark reminder of the need to develop a global strategy to fight this menace of terrorism.

The United State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert has condemned the Egypt mosque attack and stated it as an 'act of evil.' The attack took place near the provincial capital of El-Arish during weekly prayers on Thursday. US has also expressed its condolences to the families and friends of the victims and wished everyone a speedy recovery. Also Watch: Images of mosque in Egypt's Sinai province Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar also condemned the attack via Twitter. "Government of Indian strongly condemns the heinous act of terrorism that has claimed innocent lives in Bir-al-Abed, North Sinai in Egypt today. In this hour of tragedy, the government and the people of India stand by the government and the people of Egypt," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Government of Indian strongly condemns the heinous act of terrorism that has claimed innocent lives in Bir-al-Abed, North Sinai in Egypt today. In this hour of tragedy, the goverment and the people of India stand by the government and the people of Egypt./1 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) November 24, 2017 × We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those affected in this attack. This incident is another stark reminder of the need to develop a global strategy to fight this menace of terrorism./2 — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) November 24, 2017 × "This terror attack on those at prayer is an unconscionable act of evil. We will continue to stand with Egypt and the Egyptian people as they face the scourge of terrorism," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement. Trump had further tweeted that he will be contacting the President of Egypt soon to talk about the attack and has claimed to become 'TOUGHER AND SMARTED THAN EVER.' Will be calling the President of Egypt in a short while to discuss the tragic terrorist attack, with so much loss of life. We have to get TOUGHER AND SMARTER than ever before, and we will. Need the WALL, need the BAN! God bless the people of Egypt. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 24, 2017 × "There can be no tolerance for barbaric groups that claim to act in the name of a faith but attack houses of worship and murder the innocent and defenceless while at prayer," White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement that followed Trump's tweet. The death toll in the mosque attack in Egpyt's northern Sinai province rose to 235 with over 125 injured, state TV reported. According to reports, assailants had surrounded the mosque with "all-terrain vehicles" then planted a bomb outside. No organization has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

Egypt mosque attack as an 'act of evil': US

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