Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his Afghan counterpart Mohammad Haneef Atmar in Dushanbe to discuss the crisis in the war-torn country. He will also attend the SCO foreign ministers' meet where Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi will be present.

Indian EAM Jaishankar meets Afghan counterpart in Dushanbe ahead of key SCO summit

After the talks, Jaishankar said he highlighted that unilateral change of status quo was not acceptable to India and that both sides agreed on convening an early meeting of the senior military commanders.

S. Jaishankar meets Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Dushanbe

Ahead of SCO summit, Indian EAM Jaishankar meets Afghan counterpart in Dushanbe

"Peace negotiations in earnest is the only answer. An acceptable compromise that reflects Doha process, Moscow format and Istanbul process is essential. The future of Afghanistan cannot be its past. A whole new generation has different expectations. We should not let them down,’’ Jaishankar said at the meeting.

Peace negotiation only answer, says Jaishankar at SCO meeting

Dr. S. Jaishankar will also participate in the SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan that will meet on 14th of July with the participation of the Afghanistan Government.

EAM S. Jaishankar to begin two day visit to Tajikistan from today

Afghanistan will be the key focus with SCO-Afghanistan FMs meet to happen on 14th July. Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has 8 member states--Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and 4 central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to be on Central Asia visit this week

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is on two days visit to Georgia. On his arrival to Georgia S Jaishankar handed over the relic of Saint Queen Ketevan to the government of Georgia. Watch this report to know more.

S Jaishankar hands holy relic of Saint Queen Ketevan to government of Georgia

Greece's Foreign minister&nbsp;Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi.

Speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Athens,&nbsp;Foreign minister&nbsp;Nikos said, "Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India.".&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam&nbsp;Jaishankar had recently visited Greece, becoming the first Indian external affairs minister&nbsp;to visit the country in 18 years. During that visit, Greece officially joined India led and headquartered the International solar alliance as well.&nbsp;

Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias also hit out at Turkey&nbsp;saying that the country is "increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda" which is a "worrying trend."

He explained that "Turkey threatens Greece with war if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights" and does not "respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter."

WION: What was the key focus during your meeting with India's EAM? It is after 18 year an Indian EAM visited, Greece. What was the key outcome in terms of furthering India-Greece ties?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Precisely as you mentioned, this was the first visit of an Indian Minister of External Affairs to Athens in almost two decades. This visit was long overdue. And I look forward to visiting New Delhi in the near future.

At first glance, Greece and India may seem to have little in common. India is an emerging global power, with almost 1.4 billion population. Greece has close to 11 million inhabitants. Geographically we are far apart.

However, such an approach is superficial and does not take into account the many things that tie us together. Greece is the birthplace of democracy. India is the biggest democracy in the world.

Both countries share the same principles. Respect for International Law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

During our discussions, we touched on the major international developments. But, we also addressed the need to enhance our bilateral ties. Through regular political dialogue, as well as people to people contacts including in the fields of trade and culture. Our aim is to develop a Strategic Partnership that will reflect the level of our bilateral relations.

We will work together in the coming months, in order to finalise a series of agreements that, unfortunately, have been pending for years. Let me also add another important dimension: Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India. In this respect, we fully support the further enhancement of EU-India relations. Last but definitely not least, the visit of my counterpart Dr. Jaishankar was an occasion to unveil the statue in Athens of a towering figure of the 20th Century, Mahatma Gandhi.

WION: You have joined the International solar alliance. How do you see the alliance at a time when climate change has been the biggest worry?&nbsp;

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;This is a very important initiative undertaken by Indian Prime Minister Modi, along with then French President Hollande, that will help in addressing the biggest global challenge that our planet is facing, namely climate change. We commend this initiative and we are very happy that we joined it.

The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mitsotakis is taking a series of initiatives in order to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, as well as increase the use of renewable energy sources. Greece, being a country that is blessed by the sun, has the potential to take advantage of solar energy. In this regard, our participation in the solar Alliance will help us in achieving our goals.

WION: You both talked about UN reforms, Do you think it is a possibility given the resistance by some countries like China. Also, your neighbour Turkey, part of the coffee group (along with Pakistan) opposing India's bid.

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Greece is in favour of UN reform, including the expansion of the UN Security Council, as well as other multilateral institutions, in order to make them more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and reflect today's geopolitical realities. Allow me to take this opportunity to commend India's participation in the Security Council, where she is seating since January this year and will be presiding it in a few weeks' time. Let me also stress that Greece has also presented its candidacy for a non-permanent seat for the period 2025-26. India's support in our bid will be of paramount importance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: You discussed Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya. Can you elaborate on what kind of discussion happened?&nbsp;

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;I took the opportunity to brief my counterpart on the developments in the region adjoining Greece. Geographically speaking this region may be far away from India. However, in a globalized world, in which India is increasingly playing a larger role, distances are shrinking.

Therefore, I underlined that what happens in this part of the world is having an effect in other parts of the world. I underlined that the pursuance of aggressive and revisionist policies by one particular state are destabilizing not just the immediate neighbourhood, but the wider region as well. I also stressed that the state in question is using religious affinities in its attempt to revive empire dreams. Or rather, ghosts of the past.

I also commended India's contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus, as well as India's efforts, as a leader of the non-aligned movement in reaching a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus issue in line with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions. That is a bizonal, bicommunal federation.

Moreover, opportunities for new schemes are emerging. And we want India to be actively engaged in them. We have developed a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates. And we look forward to establish a trilateral dialogue [including India] in the near future.

WION: How much Turkey was discussed with India. What was India's response?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Let me start by your second question. I cannot speak on behalf of India. However, from my side, apart from outlining Turkey's [neo-Ottoman] ambitions in the region, as well as its [aggressive] behaviour against almost all its neighbours, there is a need to highlight two points, that should be of concern to India as well.

First, Turkey, is trying to establish a military permanent presence in many countries. This could be a destabilizing factor.

Second, Turkey is increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda. We have seen examples of this in our immediate neighbourhood, in the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean, but increasingly also in other parts of the world. Especially in Africa, in particular East Africa. This is a worrying trend.

WION: How much do you think Turkey has been a worry for you in the region. And how much you think, India can be an ally in the cause that brings New Delhi and Athens together?

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;The biggest challenge that Turkey is posing, not just to Greece, but to the whole region, is that she does not respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter. She threatens Greece with war, if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights.

Furthermore, Turkey refuses to address the sole bilateral issue she has with Greece on the basis of International Law. The challenge is not Turkey as a country. It is the fact that Turkey refuses to abide by the rules defined and accepted by the International Community. In this regard, India, a country that upholds these rules, can play a major role internationally.

WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific vision? The joint press release mentioned the term.

Nikos Dendias:&nbsp;Greece is a maritime nation. And we uphold basic principles such as the freedom of navigation and respect for the International Law of the Sea. In this vein, we highly appreciate the fact that the Quad Leaders meeting that took place, virtually, a few months ago, underlined these principles, which in turn were specifically mentioned in the Communiqué.&nbsp;

Allow me to conclude by stressing one more point: India has reached agreements with almost all of its neighbours on the delimitation of Exclusive Economic Zones on the basis of International Law. In one case, together with Bangladesh, India has referred the issue to the International Court of Justice. This reflects exactly Greece's position on the issue.

Only one of India's neighbours is still refusing to abide by these principles. Greece is facing a similar situation whereby only one neighbour is refusing to respect the same rules.

Greece's Foreign minister Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi.

Greece's Foreign minister Nikos Dendias has said that India, Greece, and UAE will soon establish a trilateral dialogue even as Athens is working to "develop a Strategic Partnership" with New Delhi. Speaking exclusively to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Athens, Foreign minister Nikos said, "Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India.". India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar had recently visited Greece, becoming the first Indian external affairs minister to visit the country in 18 years. During that visit, Greece officially joined India led and headquartered the International solar alliance as well. Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias also hit out at Turkey saying that the country is "increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda" which is a "worrying trend." He explained that "Turkey threatens Greece with war if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights" and does not "respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter." WION: What was the key focus during your meeting with India's EAM? It is after 18 year an Indian EAM visited, Greece. What was the key outcome in terms of furthering India-Greece ties? Nikos Dendias: Precisely as you mentioned, this was the first visit of an Indian Minister of External Affairs to Athens in almost two decades. This visit was long overdue. And I look forward to visiting New Delhi in the near future. At first glance, Greece and India may seem to have little in common. India is an emerging global power, with almost 1.4 billion population. Greece has close to 11 million inhabitants. Geographically we are far apart. However, such an approach is superficial and does not take into account the many things that tie us together. Greece is the birthplace of democracy. India is the biggest democracy in the world. Both countries share the same principles. Respect for International Law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as non-interference in the internal affairs of other states. During our discussions, we touched on the major international developments. But, we also addressed the need to enhance our bilateral ties. Through regular political dialogue, as well as people to people contacts including in the fields of trade and culture. Our aim is to develop a Strategic Partnership that will reflect the level of our bilateral relations. We will work together in the coming months, in order to finalise a series of agreements that, unfortunately, have been pending for years. Let me also add another important dimension: Greece as an EU Member-State has the capacity to act as a bridge between the European Union and India. In this respect, we fully support the further enhancement of EU-India relations. Last but definitely not least, the visit of my counterpart Dr. Jaishankar was an occasion to unveil the statue in Athens of a towering figure of the 20th Century, Mahatma Gandhi. WION: You have joined the International solar alliance. How do you see the alliance at a time when climate change has been the biggest worry? Nikos Dendias: This is a very important initiative undertaken by Indian Prime Minister Modi, along with then French President Hollande, that will help in addressing the biggest global challenge that our planet is facing, namely climate change. We commend this initiative and we are very happy that we joined it. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mitsotakis is taking a series of initiatives in order to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, as well as increase the use of renewable energy sources. Greece, being a country that is blessed by the sun, has the potential to take advantage of solar energy. In this regard, our participation in the solar Alliance will help us in achieving our goals. WION: You both talked about UN reforms, Do you think it is a possibility given the resistance by some countries like China. Also, your neighbour Turkey, part of the coffee group (along with Pakistan) opposing India's bid. Nikos Dendias: Greece is in favour of UN reform, including the expansion of the UN Security Council, as well as other multilateral institutions, in order to make them more inclusive, transparent, accountable, and reflect today's geopolitical realities. Allow me to take this opportunity to commend India's participation in the Security Council, where she is seating since January this year and will be presiding it in a few weeks' time. Let me also stress that Greece has also presented its candidacy for a non-permanent seat for the period 2025-26. India's support in our bid will be of paramount importance. WION: You discussed Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus and Libya. Can you elaborate on what kind of discussion happened? Nikos Dendias: I took the opportunity to brief my counterpart on the developments in the region adjoining Greece. Geographically speaking this region may be far away from India. However, in a globalized world, in which India is increasingly playing a larger role, distances are shrinking. Therefore, I underlined that what happens in this part of the world is having an effect in other parts of the world. I underlined that the pursuance of aggressive and revisionist policies by one particular state are destabilizing not just the immediate neighbourhood, but the wider region as well. I also stressed that the state in question is using religious affinities in its attempt to revive empire dreams. Or rather, ghosts of the past. I also commended India's contribution to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus, as well as India's efforts, as a leader of the non-aligned movement in reaching a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus issue in line with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions. That is a bizonal, bicommunal federation. Moreover, opportunities for new schemes are emerging. And we want India to be actively engaged in them. We have developed a strategic partnership with the United Arab Emirates. And we look forward to establish a trilateral dialogue [including India] in the near future. WION: How much Turkey was discussed with India. What was India's response? Nikos Dendias: Let me start by your second question. I cannot speak on behalf of India. However, from my side, apart from outlining Turkey's [neo-Ottoman] ambitions in the region, as well as its [aggressive] behaviour against almost all its neighbours, there is a need to highlight two points, that should be of concern to India as well. First, Turkey, is trying to establish a military permanent presence in many countries. This could be a destabilizing factor. Second, Turkey is increasingly playing the religious card in order to advance its geopolitical agenda. We have seen examples of this in our immediate neighbourhood, in the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean, but increasingly also in other parts of the world. Especially in Africa, in particular East Africa. This is a worrying trend. WION: How much do you think Turkey has been a worry for you in the region. And how much you think, India can be an ally in the cause that brings New Delhi and Athens together? Nikos Dendias: The biggest challenge that Turkey is posing, not just to Greece, but to the whole region, is that she does not respect the basic principles of International Law, including fundamental provisions of the UN Charter. She threatens Greece with war, if Greece exercises her inherent sovereign rights. Furthermore, Turkey refuses to address the sole bilateral issue she has with Greece on the basis of International Law. The challenge is not Turkey as a country. It is the fact that Turkey refuses to abide by the rules defined and accepted by the International Community. In this regard, India, a country that upholds these rules, can play a major role internationally. WION: How do you see the Indo Pacific vision? The joint press release mentioned the term. Nikos Dendias: Greece is a maritime nation. And we uphold basic principles such as the freedom of navigation and respect for the International Law of the Sea. In this vein, we highly appreciate the fact that the Quad Leaders meeting that took place, virtually, a few months ago, underlined these principles, which in turn were specifically mentioned in the Communiqué. Allow me to conclude by stressing one more point: India has reached agreements with almost all of its neighbours on the delimitation of Exclusive Economic Zones on the basis of International Law. In one case, together with Bangladesh, India has referred the issue to the International Court of Justice. This reflects exactly Greece's position on the issue. Only one of India's neighbours is still refusing to abide by these principles. Greece is facing a similar situation whereby only one neighbour is refusing to respect the same rules.

Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey

“At the end of the day, who governs Afghanistan has a legitimacy aspect of it. I think that is something which cannot and should not be ignored,” said Jaishankar

'Peace in Afghanistan is crucial for the region', says EAM S Jaishankar

S. Jaishankar, delivering a speech on India-Russia ties in a changing world at the Primakov Institute of World Economy and International Relations here. During his address, Jaishankar said India’s strategic, diplomatic and cultural ties with Russia are important in today’s world.

'India-Russia ties among steadliest in the world': EAM S Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi. Jaishakar is the first foreign minister to meet the new president of Iran, who was elected last month.

During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi. In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. <a href="https://t.co/Ef7iEutkZi">pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1412769835470180355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Afghanistan was one of the key topics of discussion during his meet with Zarif, this comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country.&nbsp;"The two sides also stressed the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan which leads to a comprehensive political solution,"&nbsp;Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-president-hassan-rouhani-issues-rare-apology-for-power-cuts-396591" hreflang="en">Iran's President, Hassan Rouhani, issues rare apology for power cuts</a>

Interestingly, hours before Jaishankar reached Tehran, Iran hosted Intra-Afghan talks. The talks saw the presence of both Taliban and Afghan government representatives. While the Afghan government's delegation was headed by Yunus Qanuni, the former foreign minister of Afghanistan, the Taliban was led by Abbas Stanikzai.

"Referring to the ongoing talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban in Tehran, the Indian Foreign Minister thanked Iran for its efforts to bring the two sides closer to a comprehensive political solution", the Iranian foreign ministry statement read.

During the talks, Vienna talks about the JCPOA or the Iran nuclear deal, cooperation in Chabahar port was also discussed. Iran's Chabahar port has been a key connectivity project that New Delhi has been invested in as it provides connectivity not only to Afghanistan but also to central Asia.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, on Wednesday, made a halt en route Moscow. During the brief stopover, he not only held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif but also called on Iran's President-Elect Ebrahim Raisi. Jaishakar is the first foreign minister to meet the new president of Iran, who was elected last month. During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi. In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues." Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM @narendramodi. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 7, 2021 × Afghanistan was one of the key topics of discussion during his meet with Zarif, this comes even as the Taliban makes territorial gains in the country. "The two sides also stressed the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan which leads to a comprehensive political solution," Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement. Also read | Iran's President, Hassan Rouhani, issues rare apology for power cuts Interestingly, hours before Jaishankar reached Tehran, Iran hosted Intra-Afghan talks. The talks saw the presence of both Taliban and Afghan government representatives. While the Afghan government's delegation was headed by Yunus Qanuni, the former foreign minister of Afghanistan, the Taliban was led by Abbas Stanikzai. "Referring to the ongoing talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban in Tehran, the Indian Foreign Minister thanked Iran for its efforts to bring the two sides closer to a comprehensive political solution", the Iranian foreign ministry statement read. During the talks, Vienna talks about the JCPOA or the Iran nuclear deal, cooperation in Chabahar port was also discussed. Iran's Chabahar port has been a key connectivity project that New Delhi has been invested in as it provides connectivity not only to Afghanistan but also to central Asia.

Jaishankar calls on new President in Iran, discusses Afghanistan

EAM Jaishankar will meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday and hold talks on bilateral cooperation at the various multilateral forums and compare notes on major global and regional issues.

'India-Russia relationship among steadiest in the world', says EAM Jaishankar

India's Foreign Minister has left for Iran & Russia. The aim is to work with a broad alliance to counter the Taliban. How does the Taliban pose a threat to Iran? How can Tehran help India secure its interests?

Gravitas: S. Jaishankar in Iran, Taliban on the agenda

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue&nbsp;to make significant gains.

Jaishankar is expected to reach the country at around 3 pm (IST). He will make&nbsp;a stopover in Iran's capital Tehran while going to Moscow. He is going to Russia for the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC).&nbsp; 
 
Jaishankar had made a similar stopover in Iran in September of 2020 while on his Moscow visit.

Both countries have been working on the Chabahar port project which has been the key pillar of connectivity between, especially Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India supplied cranes for the post. India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar.&nbsp;

In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13000 TEUs of container cargo.

India used the&nbsp;port&nbsp;to send 75,000 MT of wheat to&nbsp;Afghanistan in 2020&nbsp;as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic.&nbsp;

India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96% ULV to Iran via&nbsp;Chabahar&nbsp;port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue to make significant gains.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran today and meet the country’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. The main focus of the meeting will be the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban continue to make significant gains. Jaishankar is expected to reach the country at around 3 pm (IST). He will make a stopover in Iran's capital Tehran while going to Moscow. He is going to Russia for the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC). Jaishankar had made a similar stopover in Iran in September of 2020 while on his Moscow visit. Both countries have been working on the Chabahar port project which has been the key pillar of connectivity between, especially Afghanistan. Earlier this year, India supplied cranes for the post. India is involved with the development of phase-I of the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. In December 2018, an Indian company, India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) took over the port operations, and as of December 2020, the port has handled 1.75 million tonnes of bulk cargo and more than 13000 TEUs of container cargo. India used the port to send 75,000 MT of wheat to Afghanistan in 2020 as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic. India also supplied 20,000 litres of the pesticide Malathion 96% ULV to Iran via Chabahar port in 2020 to help Iran curb the menace of desert locusts.

With Afghanistan in focus, India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar to land in Iran today

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on&nbsp;Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three&nbsp;ministers of state.

In the biggest cabinet reshuffle since 2014, it got two&nbsp;new ministers of state - Meenakshi Lekhi and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The ministry already has one minister of state - V Muraleedharan. Lekhi will also be a minister of state in the ministry of culture, while RR Singh will have the additional responsibility of MoS in the ministry of education.

Meenakshi Lekhi is MP from high profile New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency and is a lawyer by profession. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh represents the inner Manipur constituency of Manipur state.

MP Lekhi in the past had attended the Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's swearing-in ceremony. In 2019&nbsp;she represented India at the Asian Parliamentary Assembly meet in Antalya, Turkey&nbsp;and had hit out at Pakistan after it raked the Kashmir issue.

Wednesday's cabinet reshuffle saw 12 ministers resigning including heavyweights Prakash Javadekar who was the information and broadcasting minister along with Ravi Shankar Prasad who was the law and information technology minister&nbsp;and Dr Harsh Vardhan who was the health minister.

Several new faces were inducted into the Union Cabinet. The new cabinet has 12 SC ministers, 8 ST ministers, 27 OBC, five&nbsp;from the minority communities and&nbsp;eleven&nbsp;women ministers.

&nbsp;

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three ministers of state.

India's external affairs ministry has seen a major expansion in the cabinet reshuffle which took place on Wednesday. The ministry led by cabinet minister Dr. S Jaishankar now has three ministers of state. In the biggest cabinet reshuffle since 2014, it got two new ministers of state - Meenakshi Lekhi and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh. The ministry already has one minister of state - V Muraleedharan. Lekhi will also be a minister of state in the ministry of culture, while RR Singh will have the additional responsibility of MoS in the ministry of education. Meenakshi Lekhi is MP from high profile New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency and is a lawyer by profession. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh represents the inner Manipur constituency of Manipur state. MP Lekhi in the past had attended the Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's swearing-in ceremony. In 2019 she represented India at the Asian Parliamentary Assembly meet in Antalya, Turkey and had hit out at Pakistan after it raked the Kashmir issue. Wednesday's cabinet reshuffle saw 12 ministers resigning including heavyweights Prakash Javadekar who was the information and broadcasting minister along with Ravi Shankar Prasad who was the law and information technology minister and Dr Harsh Vardhan who was the health minister. Several new faces were inducted into the Union Cabinet. The new cabinet has 12 SC ministers, 8 ST ministers, 27 OBC, five from the minority communities and eleven women ministers.

India's foreign ministry sees major expansion in cabinet reshuffle

India's Foreign minister S. Jaishankar is set to leave for Russia this week to meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. It is expected that both the ministers would talk over Afghanistan's current situation. Russia has been a time-tested partner for India and the country has been a key pillar of New Delhi’s foreign policy.

Afghanistan turmoil to be focus on S Jaishankar's visit to Russia

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is going to visit the Russian Federation from 7-9 July. During the visit, External Affairs Minister will meet his counterpart, Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Russian Federation

Jaishankar’s remarks came against the backdrop of a tussle between social media giant Twitter and the Indian government following the implementation of controversial new digital media rules.

Jaishankar calls for debate on responsibility, accountability of Big Tech firms

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there.&nbsp;

This visit appears to be the first official confirmation of recent rumours that New Delhi has directly engaged the Taliban.&nbsp;

Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, who is the Special Envoy of Qatar’s foreign minister for counter-terrorism and conflict resolution, said at a virtual seminar: "India, as we know, has invested a lot economically and wants Afghanistan to be more peaceful and stable.

"I believe there has been a quiet visit by Indian officials to speak to the Taliban. Why because not everybody believes that the Taliban will dominate and take over but because the Taliban is a key component of the future of Afghanistan.”

The Qatari diplomat advised that such discussions with Afghan stakeholders should aim to persuade the parties to resolve their disagreements through peaceful methods.&nbsp;

Since 2013, the Qatari government has hosted the Taliban's main headquarters in Doha, and it is the organiser of the Intra Afghan Dialogue, or Afghan-Taliban talks, which began in September of last year.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Doha ceremony, as did an Indian delegation led by Joint Secretary for Iran-Pakistan-Afghanistan JP Singh from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there.

Indian diplomats paid a 'quiet visit' to Doha on Monday, according to Qatar's Special Envoy Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, to have talks with the Afghan Taliban's political leadership based there. This visit appears to be the first official confirmation of recent rumours that New Delhi has directly engaged the Taliban. Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, who is the Special Envoy of Qatar’s foreign minister for counter-terrorism and conflict resolution, said at a virtual seminar: "India, as we know, has invested a lot economically and wants Afghanistan to be more peaceful and stable. "I believe there has been a quiet visit by Indian officials to speak to the Taliban. Why because not everybody believes that the Taliban will dominate and take over but because the Taliban is a key component of the future of Afghanistan.” The Qatari diplomat advised that such discussions with Afghan stakeholders should aim to persuade the parties to resolve their disagreements through peaceful methods. Since 2013, the Qatari government has hosted the Taliban's main headquarters in Doha, and it is the organiser of the Intra Afghan Dialogue, or Afghan-Taliban talks, which began in September of last year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Doha ceremony, as did an Indian delegation led by Joint Secretary for Iran-Pakistan-Afghanistan JP Singh from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Indian delegation engaged in talks with Taliban in Doha: Qatar special envoy

In early March, Jaishankar and Khalilzad spoke over phone and discussed the developments pertaining to the Afghan peace talks.

EAM S.Jaishankar holds talks with US Special Representative for Afghanistan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held a “productive” online interaction with a cross section of Indian diaspora in Kenya.

EAM S Jaishankar interacts with Indian diaspora in Kenya

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law.&nbsp;

The pact, on the anvil for a long time, was signed during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. It streamlines the recruitment process for Indian workers. The MoU focusses on the signing of contracts that ensure the rights and obligations of both Kuwaiti employers and Indian domestic workers.&nbsp;

EAM speaking to the Indian Diaspora in Kuwait said that the MoU, "streamlines and strengthens the position of our workers in Kuwait" and it is "an important step which would encourage greater Indian presence" in the country.

The MoU was signed by India's Ambassador to Kuwait Sibi George and Kuwait's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmad Al–Dhafiri. Under the MoU, a 24-hour mechanism will be established to assist domestic workers. Also, a joint committee will be established for periodic review and assessment and a follow-up to the implementation of MoU.

Kuwait hosts, over one million Indian community members. They form the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country. The Indian embassy has an Indian Workers’ Welfare Centre which provides a toll-free 24x7 telephonic helpline for Indian domestic workers, a labour complaint redressal mechanism and accommodation for domestic workers in distress and other services.

India's External Affairs Minister was on a 3-day visit to the country as part of increased political engagement between the 2 countries. During the meeting, he called on Kuwait's PM Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and held delegation-level talks with FM Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah.

Indian foreign minister during the talks conveyed to Kuwaiti leadership the country's efforts and role amid the 2nd wave of Covid pandemic in India. Kuwait and India had established an air and sea bridge under which the West Asian country had sent Liquid Medical Oxygen and Oxygen containers to deal with the crisis.

Later this year, India and Kuwait will hold the first meeting of the Kuwait-India joint commission and will also plan early meeting of joint working groups on health, hydrocarbon and manpower. This year both sides celebrate the 60th year of diplomatic ties, one that will continue through the year 2021-2022.

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law.

In a significant move, India and Kuwait have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation that will protect the rights of Indian domestic workers in Kuwait by introducing employment contracts that provides them with the protection of Law. The pact, on the anvil for a long time, was signed during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. It streamlines the recruitment process for Indian workers. The MoU focusses on the signing of contracts that ensure the rights and obligations of both Kuwaiti employers and Indian domestic workers. EAM speaking to the Indian Diaspora in Kuwait said that the MoU, "streamlines and strengthens the position of our workers in Kuwait" and it is "an important step which would encourage greater Indian presence" in the country. The MoU was signed by India's Ambassador to Kuwait Sibi George and Kuwait's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmad Al–Dhafiri. Under the MoU, a 24-hour mechanism will be established to assist domestic workers. Also, a joint committee will be established for periodic review and assessment and a follow-up to the implementation of MoU. Kuwait hosts, over one million Indian community members. They form the largest expatriate community in the West Asian country. The Indian embassy has an Indian Workers’ Welfare Centre which provides a toll-free 24x7 telephonic helpline for Indian domestic workers, a labour complaint redressal mechanism and accommodation for domestic workers in distress and other services. India's External Affairs Minister was on a 3-day visit to the country as part of increased political engagement between the 2 countries. During the meeting, he called on Kuwait's PM Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and held delegation-level talks with FM Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah. Indian foreign minister during the talks conveyed to Kuwaiti leadership the country's efforts and role amid the 2nd wave of Covid pandemic in India. Kuwait and India had established an air and sea bridge under which the West Asian country had sent Liquid Medical Oxygen and Oxygen containers to deal with the crisis. Later this year, India and Kuwait will hold the first meeting of the Kuwait-India joint commission and will also plan early meeting of joint working groups on health, hydrocarbon and manpower. This year both sides celebrate the 60th year of diplomatic ties, one that will continue through the year 2021-2022.

India, Kuwait sign pacts to protect rights of Indian domestic workers

Why is Dr. S Jaishankar in America? Who all is the foreign minister meeting? What is being discussed? Palki Sharma tells you about the significance of the visit.

Gravitas: Why is Dr. Jaishankar in America?

The White House said that US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan (NSA) and India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar met on Thursday to "review a strong partnership between the world's largest democracies".

EAM S. Jaishankar meets US NSA Sullivan, will meet US Secy of State on Friday

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar held a comprehensive personal meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday and discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and effective global vaccine solutions.

S. Jaishankar discusses 'effective global vaccine solutions' with UN Secretary-General

S. Jaishankar meets Antonio Guterres in New York, discusses global vaccine solutions

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York, the first-ever physical meeting between the two&nbsp;after India took the non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council earlier this year.

During the talks&nbsp;at United Nations headquarters,&nbsp;the key focus was India's presidency of the council in the month of August during which India will be leading a number of events on maritime security, technology, and peacekeeping.&nbsp;

A tweet statement by EAM said that he, "highlighted India's constructive role in UNSC and conveyed priorities of our presidency in August."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A warm &amp; comprehensive meeting with UN Secretary General <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a>. 
 
Discussed the Covid challenge,underlining the importance of finding urgent&amp;effective global vaccine solutions.Critical to ramp up the vaccine supply chain to ensure greater production&amp;fairer distribution <a href="https://t.co/fDAwTyNCRt">pic.twitter.com/fDAwTyNCRt</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1397218262283427844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During the same meet, UN SG lauded Indian UN Peacekeepers' role in Congo over the weekend in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption.&nbsp;

Indian Army personnel are part of the MONUSCO or United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and played a key role in safeguarding civilians and UN assets.&nbsp;

India is also working with the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations for the development of a mobile tech platform – UNITE AWARE will be launched during India's August presidency.

It will increase situational awareness and provides terrain-related information to peacekeepers, with India contributing $1.64 million towards the project.

During the meeting, EAM conveyed to António Guterres that India will back him for his re-election for a second term as the UN Secretary-General.&nbsp;

Elections will take place later this year to choose the tenth Secretary-General of the United Nations whose tenure will begin from January 1 next year.

The meeting expectedly saw a focus on the Covid crisis, with EAM appreciating the efforts of the Secretary-General to facilitate ‘Vaccines for All" and both sides discussing the need to ramp up global vaccine production through expanded supply chains.

EAM's tweet statement said, "Discussed the Covid challenge, underlining the importance of finding urgent &amp; effective global vaccine solutions".

There was a mention of the India South Africa proposal of Covid vaccine patent waiver, which has seen increased global support ever since US President Biden administration extended support for it.

Other key issues were climate change&nbsp;and two&nbsp;key regional issues - on Afghanistan and Myanmar.

On climate change, EAM apprised the Secretary-General on India’s efforts to meet its Paris commitments&nbsp;pointing out to its projects like the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

On Afghanistan, his statement said,"Shared our concerns about ensuring that the gains of the last two decades in Afghanistan are adequately protected."

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York, the first-ever physical meeting between the two after India took the non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council earlier this year.

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York, the first-ever physical meeting between the two after India took the non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council earlier this year. During the talks at United Nations headquarters, the key focus was India's presidency of the council in the month of August during which India will be leading a number of events on maritime security, technology, and peacekeeping. A tweet statement by EAM said that he, "highlighted India's constructive role in UNSC and conveyed priorities of our presidency in August." A warm & comprehensive meeting with UN Secretary General @antonioguterres. Discussed the Covid challenge,underlining the importance of finding urgent&effective global vaccine solutions.Critical to ramp up the vaccine supply chain to ensure greater production&fairer distribution pic.twitter.com/fDAwTyNCRt — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 25, 2021 × During the same meet, UN SG lauded Indian UN Peacekeepers' role in Congo over the weekend in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption. Indian Army personnel are part of the MONUSCO or United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and played a key role in safeguarding civilians and UN assets. India is also working with the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations for the development of a mobile tech platform – UNITE AWARE will be launched during India's August presidency. It will increase situational awareness and provides terrain-related information to peacekeepers, with India contributing $1.64 million towards the project. During the meeting, EAM conveyed to António Guterres that India will back him for his re-election for a second term as the UN Secretary-General. Elections will take place later this year to choose the tenth Secretary-General of the United Nations whose tenure will begin from January 1 next year. The meeting expectedly saw a focus on the Covid crisis, with EAM appreciating the efforts of the Secretary-General to facilitate ‘Vaccines for All" and both sides discussing the need to ramp up global vaccine production through expanded supply chains. EAM's tweet statement said, "Discussed the Covid challenge, underlining the importance of finding urgent & effective global vaccine solutions". There was a mention of the India South Africa proposal of Covid vaccine patent waiver, which has seen increased global support ever since US President Biden administration extended support for it. Other key issues were climate change and two key regional issues - on Afghanistan and Myanmar. On climate change, EAM apprised the Secretary-General on India’s efforts to meet its Paris commitments pointing out to its projects like the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. On Afghanistan, his statement said,"Shared our concerns about ensuring that the gains of the last two decades in Afghanistan are adequately protected."

Jaishankar discusses India's August UNSC presidency with UN chief

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar his on a five day trip to the United States, where he will hold the key bilateral meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He is also scheduled to meet the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to pitch for vaccine equity in meeting with UN chief

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has started his week long trip to the United States, where he has been scheduled to meet the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and also hold a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to meet Blinken, UN Chief Guterres during US visit

India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in New York on Monday to begin his 5-day United States visit, meeting senior United States officials and discussing COVID-related cooperation between the two countries.

Indian External Affairs Minister on COVID vaccine mission to the United States

S. Jaishankar set to meet US Secy of State and UN Chief during 5-day US visit

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