External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held wide-ranging talks with his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah to elevate bilateral relations.

The Kuwaiti foreign minister arrived here on Wednesday evening on a nearly 18-hour visit.

"Glad to welcome this morning, along with @MOS_MEA, FM @anmas71 of Kuwait. Productive discussions on our bilateral agenda &amp; regional developments," Jaishankar said on Twitter.

"Will co-chair Joint Commission with him to elevate our relationship further," he added. Kuwait remains a reliable supplier of crude oil and LPG to India.

Historically, India-Kuwaiti ties have always had an important trade dimension. India has consistently been among the top trading partners of Kuwait.

In the financial year 2019-20, Kuwait was the 10th largest oil supplier to India and it met about 3.8 per cent of India's energy needs.

The total bilateral trade with Kuwait during 2019-20 was USD 10.86 billion, according to official data.

Various aspects of bilateral ties and regional issues are expected to be discussed in the talks between the two foreign ministers, said a diplomatic source. 
The evolving situation in the Gulf region is also expected to figure in the deliberations.

Around 641,000 Indians are living in Kuwait and the community adds an important dimension to the ties between the two countries. 
Indian nationals are the largest expatriate community in Kuwait.

Over the last few years, India has been expanding its overall ties with the Gulf region which is home to an estimated 8.5 million Indians.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held wide-ranging talks with his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah to elevate bilateral relations.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held wide-ranging talks with his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah to elevate bilateral relations. The Kuwaiti foreign minister arrived here on Wednesday evening on a nearly 18-hour visit. "Glad to welcome this morning, along with @MOS_MEA, FM @anmas71 of Kuwait. Productive discussions on our bilateral agenda & regional developments," Jaishankar said on Twitter. "Will co-chair Joint Commission with him to elevate our relationship further," he added. Kuwait remains a reliable supplier of crude oil and LPG to India. Historically, India-Kuwaiti ties have always had an important trade dimension. India has consistently been among the top trading partners of Kuwait. In the financial year 2019-20, Kuwait was the 10th largest oil supplier to India and it met about 3.8 per cent of India's energy needs. The total bilateral trade with Kuwait during 2019-20 was USD 10.86 billion, according to official data. Various aspects of bilateral ties and regional issues are expected to be discussed in the talks between the two foreign ministers, said a diplomatic source. The evolving situation in the Gulf region is also expected to figure in the deliberations. Around 641,000 Indians are living in Kuwait and the community adds an important dimension to the ties between the two countries. Indian nationals are the largest expatriate community in Kuwait. Over the last few years, India has been expanding its overall ties with the Gulf region which is home to an estimated 8.5 million Indians.

Indian EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Kuwaiti counterpart

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen received Jaishankar at Kurmitola Air Force base. The two counterparts are set for a meeting during the day.

"This is an important meeting as it is expected to lay the groundwork for the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Modi and his talks with our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," a Bangladesh foreign ministry official said.

Jaishankar, who is visiting the country at the invitation of foreign minister Momen, is also expected to hold talks on a host of bilateral and regional issues.

Prime Minister Modi is likely to pay a two-day visit to Bangladesh beginning March 26 to participate in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971.

According to officials familiar with the visit, Jaishankar would call on Prime Minister Hasina during his stay.

The two foreign ministers would take an overview of bilateral MoUs that are likely to be signed during Prime Minister Modi's visit on March 26-27, they said.

The officials said that during Modi's visit, the two premiers were likely to flag off a direct passenger train service between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.

Hasina and Modi had held a virtual summit on December 17 when they jointly flagged off the train service between Haldibari and Chilahati.

Bangladesh foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen visited India in January during which both sides extensively deliberated on Modi's visit to Dhaka.

Jaishankar's visit to Bangladesh follows on the PM-level virtual summit in December last year and will also provide an opportunity to take stock of the progress in bilateral relations, the ministry of external affairs said in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Following the summit, the Indian side had said Prime Minister Modi will visit Bangladesh in March this year to join the celebrations for 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Thursday to prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Bangladesh, and hold talks with his counterpart on the progress of bilateral ties. Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen received Jaishankar at Kurmitola Air Force base. The two counterparts are set for a meeting during the day. "This is an important meeting as it is expected to lay the groundwork for the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Modi and his talks with our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," a Bangladesh foreign ministry official said. Jaishankar, who is visiting the country at the invitation of foreign minister Momen, is also expected to hold talks on a host of bilateral and regional issues. Prime Minister Modi is likely to pay a two-day visit to Bangladesh beginning March 26 to participate in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971. According to officials familiar with the visit, Jaishankar would call on Prime Minister Hasina during his stay. The two foreign ministers would take an overview of bilateral MoUs that are likely to be signed during Prime Minister Modi's visit on March 26-27, they said. The officials said that during Modi's visit, the two premiers were likely to flag off a direct passenger train service between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. Hasina and Modi had held a virtual summit on December 17 when they jointly flagged off the train service between Haldibari and Chilahati. Bangladesh foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen visited India in January during which both sides extensively deliberated on Modi's visit to Dhaka. Jaishankar's visit to Bangladesh follows on the PM-level virtual summit in December last year and will also provide an opportunity to take stock of the progress in bilateral relations, the ministry of external affairs said in New Delhi on Wednesday. Following the summit, the Indian side had said Prime Minister Modi will visit Bangladesh in March this year to join the celebrations for 50 years of Bangladesh's Independence and India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar arrives in Bangladesh

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday.

The "Chabahar Day" will be celebrated on the last day of the mega India maritime summit that was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.

Transport minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads, Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich will be present at the virtual meet. India will be represented by 2 of its minister--India's external affairs minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for ports Mansukh Mandaviya.

Earlier this week, speaking to WION, Mandaviya said, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. 2 cranes have been put. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important"

Chabahar in Iran is key to India's westwards connectivity, providing inroads to Afghanistan and Central Asia and the key to the north-south international transport corridor linking Mumbai with Moscow. January saw India sending 2 cranes for the port, and the next few months will see four&nbsp;more cranes being sent that will increase the efficiency of the port.&nbsp;

Interest has been coming from Central Asian countries to be part of the project. A working group of India, Iran, and Uzbekistan met in December as one of the key outcomes of the India Uzbekistan virtual summit between the leaders of the 2 countries. In fact, 3 of the participating countries taking part in the "Chabahar day" are from central Asia.

Last year, the Kazakh envoy to Delhi Yerlan Alimbayev pointing out his country's interest in the project said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday.

Ministers from six countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Armenia will take part in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day on Thursday. The "Chabahar Day" will be celebrated on the last day of the mega India maritime summit that was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. Transport minister of Afghanistan Qudratullah Zaki, Armenia's Infrastructure minister Suren Papikyan, Iran's Minister of Roads, Mohammad Eslami, Russia's Deputy Minister of Industry Oleg N Ryazantsev and Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Transport Choriyev Jasurbek Ergashevich will be present at the virtual meet. India will be represented by 2 of its minister--India's external affairs minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Minister of State for ports Mansukh Mandaviya. Earlier this week, speaking to WION, Mandaviya said, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. 2 cranes have been put. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important" Chabahar in Iran is key to India's westwards connectivity, providing inroads to Afghanistan and Central Asia and the key to the north-south international transport corridor linking Mumbai with Moscow. January saw India sending 2 cranes for the port, and the next few months will see four more cranes being sent that will increase the efficiency of the port. Interest has been coming from Central Asian countries to be part of the project. A working group of India, Iran, and Uzbekistan met in December as one of the key outcomes of the India Uzbekistan virtual summit between the leaders of the 2 countries. In fact, 3 of the participating countries taking part in the "Chabahar day" are from central Asia. Last year, the Kazakh envoy to Delhi Yerlan Alimbayev pointing out his country's interest in the project said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

Ministers from 6 countries to participate in India's commemoration of Chabahar Day

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security."

Work on the project will be completed in two&nbsp;phases and expected to be completed in three&nbsp;years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces.

Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019.

During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs.

India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime &amp; exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit.

India will be developing a Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour at Sifvaru, Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), the pact for which was signed on Sunday. The pact was signed during Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's two-day Maldives visit. EAM in a tweet said, "Glad to sign with Defence Minister Mariya Didi the UTF Harbour Project agreement. Will strengthen Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. Partners in development, partners in security." Work on the project will be completed in two phases and expected to be completed in three years. The pact aims to "develop, support and maintain" the harbour and is part of the request made by the Maldivian government in April 2013 to the Indian government to enhance the capability of the Maldivian Defence forces. Requests were also sent by Male to Delhi in October 2015, March 2016. The coast guard pact was also key during April 2016 Action Plan for Defence Cooperation under the former Yameen government of Maldives. The terms of reference for the project were discussed during the joint staff talks held in June 2018, January 2019 and June 2019 and September 2019. During the visit, New Delhi also extended a $50 million dollar line of credit (LOC) agreement for defence projects. The LOC for defence will be used as per priorities of govt of Maldives to source equipment or projects from India like any other civilian LOCs. India and Maldives have close engagement on defence and security. India is supporting the Maldives in one of the key issues--maritime surveillance of its large Exclusive Economic Zone in the Indian ocean. Last year, India sent Dornier Maritime Surveillance aircraft for Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) that is being used in Maritime & exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster and Medical Relief.

India, Maldives sign pact on development of Coast Guard Harbour

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.&nbsp;

Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-quad-meet-pentagon-says-relationship-with-india-a-priority-364484">Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority'</a>

As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting.&nbsp;

This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-ladakh-india-revamps-defence-strategy-364381">After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy</a>

The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release. Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN. Also Read: Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority' As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting. This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release. Also Read: After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality, says Australia

Ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-hold-talks-with-quad-partners-despite-china-pressure-364402">Quad</a> foreign minister meeting later today, the Pentagon has said ties with India is a priority and is critical.

Watch:

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Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said, "India is a critical partner especially when you consider all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region" and US Defence secretary is "prioritizing this relationship, wants to see continuing to grow and develop and to get stronger".

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin and Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to each other last month with reaffirmation on Indo-Pacific vision.

When it comes to defence relationship, there has been increased engagement including the signing of operational pacts like COMCASA, LEMOA. Bilateral exercises held annually include Malabar, Cope-India (Air Force), Yudh Abhyas (Army) and Vajra Prahar (Special Forces).

The third Quad foreign minister meeting takes place today at 5.30 pm (IST) and will see the participation of US state secretary Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S. Jaishankar.

The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The ministers will exchange views on regional and global issues especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region."&nbsp;

While today's meeting will be virtual, the last meeting happened physically in Japan on October 6. The first meeting of Quad FMs took on September 6, 2019, on the sidelines of the UNGA session in New York. Last year also saw COVID plus meetings taking place on how to deal with the pandemic at the foreign secretary-level.

Ned Price, Department spokesperson on the Quad meet said, "this discussion with the Quad foreign ministers, is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our time, including coordinating our efforts on COVID-19 response as well as climate change."

All four Quad countries issued releases on the meet with a key mention on "Indo-Pacific".&nbsp;

The meet comes within a month of Biden&nbsp;presidency and shows the continuous focus of Washington from previous Trump administration on Indo-Pacific and Quad.&nbsp;

In fact, in response to a question, Pentagon spokesperson said, "US defence secretary will absolutely" support a gathering of Quad countries.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Quad foreign minister meeting later today, the Pentagon has said ties with India is a priority and is critical. Watch: Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said, "India is a critical partner especially when you consider all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region" and US Defence secretary is "prioritizing this relationship, wants to see continuing to grow and develop and to get stronger".

Ahead of the Quad foreign minister meeting later today, the Pentagon has said ties with India is a priority and is critical. Watch: Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said, "India is a critical partner especially when you consider all the challenges in the Indo-Pacific region" and US Defence secretary is "prioritizing this relationship, wants to see continuing to grow and develop and to get stronger". US defence secretary Lloyd Austin and Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to each other last month with reaffirmation on Indo-Pacific vision. When it comes to defence relationship, there has been increased engagement including the signing of operational pacts like COMCASA, LEMOA. Bilateral exercises held annually include Malabar, Cope-India (Air Force), Yudh Abhyas (Army) and Vajra Prahar (Special Forces). The third Quad foreign minister meeting takes place today at 5.30 pm (IST) and will see the participation of US state secretary Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S. Jaishankar. The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "The ministers will exchange views on regional and global issues especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region." While today's meeting will be virtual, the last meeting happened physically in Japan on October 6. The first meeting of Quad FMs took on September 6, 2019, on the sidelines of the UNGA session in New York. Last year also saw COVID plus meetings taking place on how to deal with the pandemic at the foreign secretary-level. Ned Price, Department spokesperson on the Quad meet said, "this discussion with the Quad foreign ministers, is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our time, including coordinating our efforts on COVID-19 response as well as climate change." All four Quad countries issued releases on the meet with a key mention on "Indo-Pacific". The meet comes within a month of Biden presidency and shows the continuous focus of Washington from previous Trump administration on Indo-Pacific and Quad. In fact, in response to a question, Pentagon spokesperson said, "US defence secretary will absolutely" support a gathering of Quad countries.

Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority'

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday announced 200,000 doses of COVID&nbsp;vaccines for UN Peacekeeper while speaking at United Nations Security Council meeting on covid crisis and vaccines.&nbsp;

He said, "Under the initiative of Vaccine Maitri, which translates into Vaccine Friendship, India provides vaccines to the world...Keeping in mind the UN Peacekeepers who operate in such difficult circumstances, we would like to announce today a gift of 200,000 doses for them as well."

India has so far sent COVID&nbsp;vaccines to 25 nations and in coming days will be supplying vaccines to 49 more countries. Around 60 per cent&nbsp;of the global vaccines are produced in India and last year amid the pandemic, it sent medicines to 150 countries.

During his address, EAM put forward 9 points for the world to put "Covid-19 pandemic decisively behind us and to emerge more resilient". Key was putting a stop to "vaccine nationalism" as "hoarding superfluous doses will defeat our efforts towards attaining collective health security", stopping "disinformation campaigns" taking "advantage of this pandemic to advance their nefarious objectives and activities" and "urgently resume immunization programs across the world before children’s lives are threatened by other diseases".

This is the second time EAM has spoken at UNSC. In January, EAM spoke on the issue of terror. India is a non-permanent member of the core UN Body for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday announced 200,000 doses of COVID vaccines for UN Peacekeeper while speaking at United Nations Security Council meeting on covid crisis and vaccines.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday announced 200,000 doses of COVID vaccines for UN Peacekeeper while speaking at United Nations Security Council meeting on covid crisis and vaccines. He said, "Under the initiative of Vaccine Maitri, which translates into Vaccine Friendship, India provides vaccines to the world...Keeping in mind the UN Peacekeepers who operate in such difficult circumstances, we would like to announce today a gift of 200,000 doses for them as well." India has so far sent COVID vaccines to 25 nations and in coming days will be supplying vaccines to 49 more countries. Around 60 per cent of the global vaccines are produced in India and last year amid the pandemic, it sent medicines to 150 countries. During his address, EAM put forward 9 points for the world to put "Covid-19 pandemic decisively behind us and to emerge more resilient". Key was putting a stop to "vaccine nationalism" as "hoarding superfluous doses will defeat our efforts towards attaining collective health security", stopping "disinformation campaigns" taking "advantage of this pandemic to advance their nefarious objectives and activities" and "urgently resume immunization programs across the world before children’s lives are threatened by other diseases". This is the second time EAM has spoken at UNSC. In January, EAM spoke on the issue of terror. India is a non-permanent member of the core UN Body for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.

At UNSC, EAM warns against vaccine nationalism, announces 200,000 jabs for UN peacekeepers

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is coming to Dhaka on March 4. During his two-day visit, the issues of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bangladesh will be finalized. &nbsp;

Discussions are also underway with Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen to fix a date for Jaishankar's bilateral meeting. &nbsp;

An official of the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed to the WION this.&nbsp;

It is learned that PM Narendra Modi will take part in a function on March 26 to mark the birth centenary of Bangladesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of great independence. &nbsp;

He is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina the next day. During Narendra Modi's visit, the two foreign ministers will discuss the agenda and possible agreements.&nbsp;

This is Jaishankar's second visit to Dhaka as foreign minister. 
 
There has been increased engagement between the two&nbsp;countries in the last few years. December saw the India-Bangladesh virtual summit at the level of Prime Ministers. &nbsp;

During the summit, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid rich tributes to the Indian Armed forces and thanked India for the liberation of the country from Pakistan in 1971.&nbsp; 
 
In January, Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen was in India for the foreign office consultations. He had called ties with India "deep and historic".&nbsp;

Amid the covid pandemic, India sent two&nbsp;million doses of the Covishield vaccine produced by the Serum Institute of India (SII) to Bangladesh. Later commercial consignments were also sent. The key focus has also been on reviving the pre-1965 connectivity links. The December virtual summit saw the opening of the Haldibari-Chilahati rail link connecting Bangladesh with the Indian state of West Bengal.&nbsp;

Currently, 5 out of 6 'pre-1965' rail links have been revived, which are Haldibari-Chilahati rail link, Petrapole (India) - Benapole (Bangladesh), Gede (India) – Darshana (Bangladesh), Singhabad (India)-Rohanpur (Bangladesh) and Radhikapur (India)–Birol (Bangladesh).

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is coming to Dhaka on March 4. During his two-day visit, the issues of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bangladesh will be finalized.

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar is coming to Dhaka on March 4. During his two-day visit, the issues of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bangladesh will be finalized. Discussions are also underway with Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen to fix a date for Jaishankar's bilateral meeting. An official of the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed to the WION this. It is learned that PM Narendra Modi will take part in a function on March 26 to mark the birth centenary of Bangladesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of great independence. He is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina the next day. During Narendra Modi's visit, the two foreign ministers will discuss the agenda and possible agreements. This is Jaishankar's second visit to Dhaka as foreign minister. There has been increased engagement between the two countries in the last few years. December saw the India-Bangladesh virtual summit at the level of Prime Ministers. During the summit, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid rich tributes to the Indian Armed forces and thanked India for the liberation of the country from Pakistan in 1971. In January, Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen was in India for the foreign office consultations. He had called ties with India "deep and historic". Amid the covid pandemic, India sent two million doses of the Covishield vaccine produced by the Serum Institute of India (SII) to Bangladesh. Later commercial consignments were also sent. The key focus has also been on reviving the pre-1965 connectivity links. The December virtual summit saw the opening of the Haldibari-Chilahati rail link connecting Bangladesh with the Indian state of West Bengal. Currently, 5 out of 6 'pre-1965' rail links have been revived, which are Haldibari-Chilahati rail link, Petrapole (India) - Benapole (Bangladesh), Gede (India) – Darshana (Bangladesh), Singhabad (India)-Rohanpur (Bangladesh) and Radhikapur (India)–Birol (Bangladesh).

Ahead Of PM Modi's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh on March 4 

Indian&nbsp;External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has pitched for connectivity from the "Arabian Sea to the South China Sea" even as New Delhi and Tokyo work together in tandem.

Speaking at an event in Guwahati, Jaishankar said, "approach to create connectivity to and within Assam, beyond to the North-East, then to neighbouring Myanmar and Bangladesh, but eventually push all the way by road, by sea, by air to Vietnam, to Japan."

India is working on a number of connectivity projects to connect northeast with East Asia. These include India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, with an aim to expand it to Vietnam via Laos.

The Kaladan Multimodal transport link will provide North East access via Sittwe Project and the Paletwa Inland Water Terminal. Work is on BIMSTEC masterplan on transport connectivity via 264 projects.

He lauded India Japan partnership, calling it "natural and close" and said, "India-Japan collaboration has always had a central place in our national modernization and development efforts." Japan has been involved in the funding of the Guwahati water supply project, road connectivity in the northeast, construction&nbsp;of a primary school in Manipur etc.

Recently New Delhi and Tokyo reached a pact for people from India to jo to Japan under "specified skilled workers" visa and will increase in people to people engagement.

Interestingly he pointed out to Assam becoming a "major player" in producing refined petroleum products and "a pipeline to supply Bangladesh high-speed diesel is an important beginning". &nbsp;India and Nepal recently opened a cross country oil pipeline, the first such pipeline in South Asia.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has pitched for connectivity from the "Arabian Sea to the South China Sea" even as New Delhi and Tokyo work together in tandem.

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has pitched for connectivity from the "Arabian Sea to the South China Sea" even as New Delhi and Tokyo work together in tandem. Speaking at an event in Guwahati, Jaishankar said, "approach to create connectivity to and within Assam, beyond to the North-East, then to neighbouring Myanmar and Bangladesh, but eventually push all the way by road, by sea, by air to Vietnam, to Japan." India is working on a number of connectivity projects to connect northeast with East Asia. These include India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, with an aim to expand it to Vietnam via Laos. The Kaladan Multimodal transport link will provide North East access via Sittwe Project and the Paletwa Inland Water Terminal. Work is on BIMSTEC masterplan on transport connectivity via 264 projects. He lauded India Japan partnership, calling it "natural and close" and said, "India-Japan collaboration has always had a central place in our national modernization and development efforts." Japan has been involved in the funding of the Guwahati water supply project, road connectivity in the northeast, construction of a primary school in Manipur etc. Recently New Delhi and Tokyo reached a pact for people from India to jo to Japan under "specified skilled workers" visa and will increase in people to people engagement. Interestingly he pointed out to Assam becoming a "major player" in producing refined petroleum products and "a pipeline to supply Bangladesh high-speed diesel is an important beginning". India and Nepal recently opened a cross country oil pipeline, the first such pipeline in South Asia.

EAM pitches for connectivity from Arabian Sea to South China Sea

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power".&nbsp;

"India is one of the most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region to us. We welcome India's emergence as a leading global power and its role as a net security provider in the region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying by news agency PTI to reporters in his daily media briefing.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Earlier on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken also spoke with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, where the two leaders reaffirmed the ties between both the countries and discussed mutual concerns, including the military coup in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/115-foreign-missions-send-3000-names-for-indias-covid-vaccination-drive-362377">115 foreign missions send 3000 names for India's COVID vaccination drive</a>

Blinken also talked about the importance of rule of law and the democratic process in Myanmar.&nbsp;

"Both sides look forward to expanded regional cooperation, including through the Quad, and to address the challenges of Covid and climate change," the spokesperson said.

He also said that the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is both broad as well as multi-faceted.

"We'll continue to engage at the highest levels of our government to deepen cooperation on many fronts, and we are confident that the strong and upward trajectory of our partnership will, in fact, continue," Price said.&nbsp;

The US also welcomed India again joining as the non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council last month for a two-year term, he said.&nbsp;

Price also highlighted that India is the largest and the most important trading partner of the US with the bilateral trade spiking to USD 146 billion in 2019 and said that US companies are a large source of foreign direct investment in India.&nbsp;

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power".

In a continuation of cordial ties with New Delhi, the United States on Tuesday called India as "one of the most important partners" in the Indo-Pacific region and welcomed the nation's emergence as "a leading global power". "India is one of the most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region to us. We welcome India's emergence as a leading global power and its role as a net security provider in the region," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was quoted as saying by news agency PTI to reporters in his daily media briefing. Watch | Earlier on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken also spoke with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, where the two leaders reaffirmed the ties between both the countries and discussed mutual concerns, including the military coup in Myanmar. Also read | 115 foreign missions send 3000 names for India's COVID vaccination drive Blinken also talked about the importance of rule of law and the democratic process in Myanmar. "Both sides look forward to expanded regional cooperation, including through the Quad, and to address the challenges of Covid and climate change," the spokesperson said. He also said that the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is both broad as well as multi-faceted. "We'll continue to engage at the highest levels of our government to deepen cooperation on many fronts, and we are confident that the strong and upward trajectory of our partnership will, in fact, continue," Price said. The US also welcomed India again joining as the non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council last month for a two-year term, he said. Price also highlighted that India is the largest and the most important trading partner of the US with the bilateral trade spiking to USD 146 billion in 2019 and said that US companies are a large source of foreign direct investment in India.

US welcomes India's rise as 'leading global power' as Jaishankar-Blinken talk over phone

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US State Secretary Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation, focusing on developments in the Indo-Pacific as well as cooperation under the framework of Quad.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar speaks to US State Secretary Blinken

S. Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, has condemned the remarks and hit out at the international celebrities who had commented on ongoing farmers protest in India.

Indian MEA hit out at foreign celebrities who commented on ongoing Indian farmers protest

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-remain-united-sachin-tendulkar-urges-people-to-not-fall-for-propaganda-amid-farmers-protest-361115" hreflang="en">Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest</a>

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. &nbsp;#VaccineMaitri"

Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!"

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In it together. 
Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> <a href="https://t.co/O9kWj6qVV9">pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1356234844850819073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19."

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Glad to see your affection towards India. :) 
 
We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG">https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1356980689531400192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri" Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!" In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 1, 2021 × In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19." Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2021 × As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.

Kevin Pietersen expresses his gratitude towards India; PM Modi replies

US Secretary of State&nbsp;Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored&nbsp;India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

They discussed issues of mutual concern, including COVID-19 vaccination efforts, regional developments and next steps in expanding bilateral ties, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Friday.

It was Blinken's first telephonic conversation with Jaishankar after he assumed the charge of the top American diplomat early this week.

''Both agreed to coordinate closely on global developments and look forward to meeting in person at the earliest opportunity,''&nbsp;Price said in a readout of the call, which was the first communication between them after January 20 when Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States.

''I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss US-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the US-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,''&nbsp;the Secretary of State said on Twitter.

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I was delighted to speak today with my good friend <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> to discuss U.S.-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1355218003990863872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After occupying Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department, Blinken has spoken to his counterparts from over a dozen countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Israel and South Africa.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken on Friday underscored India's role as a preeminent partner in the Indo-Pacific and the importance of working together to expand the regional cooperation, including through the Quad in his conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. They discussed issues of mutual concern, including COVID-19 vaccination efforts, regional developments and next steps in expanding bilateral ties, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said on Friday. It was Blinken's first telephonic conversation with Jaishankar after he assumed the charge of the top American diplomat early this week. ''Both agreed to coordinate closely on global developments and look forward to meeting in person at the earliest opportunity,'' Price said in a readout of the call, which was the first communication between them after January 20 when Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States. ''I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss US-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the US-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,'' the Secretary of State said on Twitter. I was delighted to speak today with my good friend @DrSJaishankar to discuss U.S.-India priorities. We reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-India relationship and discussed ways we can better seize new opportunities and combat shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) January 29, 2021 × After occupying Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department, Blinken has spoken to his counterparts from over a dozen countries including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Britain, Japan, Germany, France, Israel and South Africa.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken discusses Quad; reaffirms growing ties with India

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Indian External Affairs Minister: Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties

Nepal Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali met his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Friday (January 15) for talks even as the political crisis back in the Himalayan nation deepened.

Nepal Foreign Minister meets Indian counterpart in New Delhi

On a 3-day visit to Sri Lanka, India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar met Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Colombo expressed interest in importing vaccines from India.

Gravitas: India's external affairs minister visits Sri Lanka

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Sri Lanka. A port deal and financial assistance to Colombo could be on the agenda for talks.'

Gravitas: India's External Affairs Minister visits Sri Lanka

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a 3-day visit to Sri Lanka. This is his first visit in 2021 and he is also the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka in the year. Watch joint press conference held by India-Sri Lanka's external affairs ministers.

Watch: India-Sri Lanka's external affairs ministers hold joint press conference

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a 3-day visit to Sri Lanka. This is his first visit in 2021 and he is also the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka in the year.

India's Foreign Minister on 3-day visit to Sri Lanka, first foreign visit in 2021

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a visit to Sri Lanka at&nbsp;a time when growing Chinese influence is testing this relationship.

Jaishankar is on a two-day visit and he will be holding bilateral talks with his counterpart, as well as the Rajapaksa brothers — President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and&nbsp;the Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The agenda

The first agenda of this visit is the proposal to build a terminal at the Colombo port, also known as&nbsp;the East Container Terminal. India, alongside Japan, has an agreement to develop this terminal for Sri Lanka.

In 2019,&nbsp;the three countries had signed a memorandum of cooperation. The terms were that the Sri Lanka ports authority will retain 100 per cent ownership, the terminal would be run by a joint company — owned collectively by India, Japan and Sri Lanka, and&nbsp;Sri Lanka will be the majority owner with 51 per cent, India and Japan will have a 49 per cent stake.

This agreement&nbsp;is starkly different from the one Sri Lanka signed with China for the Hambantota port —a&nbsp;project that was largely funded by China.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-minister-jaishankar-to-visit-sri-lanka-in-the-first-visit-of-2021-354393" hreflang="en">Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Sri Lanka in the first visit of 2021</a>

The arrangement pushed Colombo into a debt trap. Ultimately, it had to lease the port to China for 99 years in 2017.

Now with the Indian minister in Sri Lanka, we might get an indication about Sri Lanka's thinking; which way its leaning for the Colombo port project because&nbsp;it has faced opposition from workers and some politicians.

However, the early signs are promising. Before Jaishankar's visit,&nbsp;Sri Lanka's port and shipping minister issued a statement saying&nbsp;the east container terminal will be developed and&nbsp;not sold to anyone. He claimed the terminal will be an "Economic and naval hub".

The second item on agenda could be&nbsp;financial assistance. Last year, Colombo had made a request to New Delhi. The Sri Lankan government wanted a special one billion currency swap facility with India as well as a debt moratorium.

These are testing times for the Sri Lankan economy. It faces what many are calling its "worst economic slump".

Last month, Colombo announced that its GDP for the second quarter plunged by 16.3 per cent. The Sri Lankan central bank projects a 3.9 per cent contraction this year mainly due to the coronavirus.

The pandemic has hit Sri Lanka's tourism sector badly too. International arrivals fell by close to 71 per cent in March last year. Before the pandemic, Sri Lanka reportedly lost 1.5 billion from tourism because of the easter bombings. So, the virus came as a double whammy for Colombo.

Now, Sri Lanka has ordered tight controls over foreign exchange. A ban has been imposed on all non-essential imports, including&nbsp;all types of vehicles.

Colombo's debt obligation amounts to around four billion a year, but Sri Lanka says it will honour all commitments. However, international ratings agencies have slashed the credit worthiness of Sri Lanka.

At a time like this, any assistance from India will be welcome in Colombo. More importantly,&nbsp;Jaishankar's visit could decide the future trajectory of this relationship.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a visit to Sri Lanka at a time when growing Chinese influence is testing this relationship. Jaishankar is on a two-day visit and he will be holding bilateral talks with his counterpart, as well as the Rajapaksa brothers — President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is on a visit to Sri Lanka at a time when growing Chinese influence is testing this relationship. Jaishankar is on a two-day visit and he will be holding bilateral talks with his counterpart, as well as the Rajapaksa brothers — President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. The agenda The first agenda of this visit is the proposal to build a terminal at the Colombo port, also known as the East Container Terminal. India, alongside Japan, has an agreement to develop this terminal for Sri Lanka. In 2019, the three countries had signed a memorandum of cooperation. The terms were that the Sri Lanka ports authority will retain 100 per cent ownership, the terminal would be run by a joint company — owned collectively by India, Japan and Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka will be the majority owner with 51 per cent, India and Japan will have a 49 per cent stake. This agreement is starkly different from the one Sri Lanka signed with China for the Hambantota port —a project that was largely funded by China. Also read| Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Sri Lanka in the first visit of 2021 The arrangement pushed Colombo into a debt trap. Ultimately, it had to lease the port to China for 99 years in 2017. Now with the Indian minister in Sri Lanka, we might get an indication about Sri Lanka's thinking; which way its leaning for the Colombo port project because it has faced opposition from workers and some politicians. However, the early signs are promising. Before Jaishankar's visit, Sri Lanka's port and shipping minister issued a statement saying the east container terminal will be developed and not sold to anyone. He claimed the terminal will be an "Economic and naval hub". The second item on agenda could be financial assistance. Last year, Colombo had made a request to New Delhi. The Sri Lankan government wanted a special one billion currency swap facility with India as well as a debt moratorium. These are testing times for the Sri Lankan economy. It faces what many are calling its "worst economic slump". Last month, Colombo announced that its GDP for the second quarter plunged by 16.3 per cent. The Sri Lankan central bank projects a 3.9 per cent contraction this year mainly due to the coronavirus. The pandemic has hit Sri Lanka's tourism sector badly too. International arrivals fell by close to 71 per cent in March last year. Before the pandemic, Sri Lanka reportedly lost 1.5 billion from tourism because of the easter bombings. So, the virus came as a double whammy for Colombo. Now, Sri Lanka has ordered tight controls over foreign exchange. A ban has been imposed on all non-essential imports, including all types of vehicles. Colombo's debt obligation amounts to around four billion a year, but Sri Lanka says it will honour all commitments. However, international ratings agencies have slashed the credit worthiness of Sri Lanka. At a time like this, any assistance from India will be welcome in Colombo. More importantly, Jaishankar's visit could decide the future trajectory of this relationship.

Jaishankar visits Sri Lanka as island faces economic crisis

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived here on Tuesday on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka during which he will hold talks with the country's top leadership and discuss issues of mutual and bilateral interests,

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaches Sri Lanka to meet President & PM

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The visit is arranged through the air-bubble due to Covid-19 travel restrictions in both countries.

During the visit, EAM will call on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-okays-emergency-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-354050">Indian government okays emergency use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine</a>

A Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement said, "While this official visit marks the first arrival of a high-level foreign dignitary in Sri Lanka in 2021, it becomes also the first foreign visit for External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar in the New Year."

One of the key focuses during the visit will the Covid-19 vaccine. India has assured that it will be providing the Covid-19 vaccine to its neighbours on priority. Over the weekend India's drug regulator gave approval to vaccines: Covishield and Covaxin for use.

The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said that the visit "signifies the priority both countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest."

EAM has been to UAE, Bahrain, Seychelles, Qatar, Iran, Russia and Japan in the latter half of 2020 as the pandemic impacted the world.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The visit is arranged through the air-bubble due to Covid-19 travel restrictions in both countries. During the visit, EAM will call on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Also read | Indian government okays emergency use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine A Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement said, "While this official visit marks the first arrival of a high-level foreign dignitary in Sri Lanka in 2021, it becomes also the first foreign visit for External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar in the New Year." One of the key focuses during the visit will the Covid-19 vaccine. India has assured that it will be providing the Covid-19 vaccine to its neighbours on priority. Over the weekend India's drug regulator gave approval to vaccines: Covishield and Covaxin for use. The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said that the visit "signifies the priority both countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest." EAM has been to UAE, Bahrain, Seychelles, Qatar, Iran, Russia and Japan in the latter half of 2020 as the pandemic impacted the world.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Sri Lanka in the first visit of 2021

India is setting the ground for the post-pandemic world and is&nbsp;slowly but surely stepping into a leadership role. The proofs are the&nbsp;unprecedented visits, cementing of ties, outreach programs, formation of startegic alliances and tapping into opportunities.

In October this year, India's army chief, General MM Naravane&nbsp;was in Myanmar and the next month&nbsp;he was in Nepal. Between the second and the third week of December, General MM Naravane visited Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The army chief's visit to Saudi Arabia was unprecedented. It came on the heels of Riyadh's deteriorating ties with Islamabad. Pakistan's army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa was not allowed to meet the Saudi crown prince in August but the Indian army chief was welcomed by the top Saudi generals.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-meets-qatari-amir-pm-discusses-economic-and-security-cooperation-353013" hreflang="en">Jaishankar meets Qatari Amir, PM; discusses economic and security cooperation</a>

General's visit also came on the heels of India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar's visit to the UAE and Bahrain.

As we speak, Jaishankar is in Qatar for a two-day visit. He attended an India-Qatar business roundtable and interacted with the Indian community there. He is also expected to meet the Qatari deputy prime minsiter and foreign minister&nbsp;Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani.

At least 700,000 Indians live in Qatar. Many Indian workers have benefited from Qatar's recent labour reforms which includes a 25 per cent&nbsp;hike in the minimum wage and dilution of a clause that required workers to take the employer's consent before switching jobs.

In 2019, the bilateral trade between Qatar and India was worth $10.95 billion. The Qatar investment authority has invested $600 million in two Indian firms.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-meets-south-koreas-top-military-brass-to-enhance-bilateral-ties-353007" hreflang="en">Indian Army chief meets South Korea's top military brass to enhance bilateral ties</a>

Jaishankar's visit is expected to focus on trade and energy cooperation. You will also see&nbsp;that the visit goes beyond all of this as it&nbsp;has a lot to do with West Asia's shifting sands and an emerging post-pandemic world — one that's being built on strategic alliances.

India views West Asia at its extended neighbourhood. West Asia is putting an end to historical and regional disputes. In the last five months, four Arab countries have formalised ties with Israel: UAE, Sudan, Morocco and Bahrain.

The gulf cooperation council countries recently held talks on ending a rift with Qatar. It is talking about lifting air, land and water blockade of Qatar because the region has a common enemy — Iran.

It just so happens that Iran is getting closer to China. However, another interesting observation is that China is also a country that India has a stand-off with in Ladakh.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-tells-indian-community-in-qatar-economic-confidence-visible-in-india-352884" hreflang="en">EAM tells Indian community in Qatar, economic confidence visible in India</a>

India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on just oil, diaspora and remittances. The relationship is now strategic as there are common foes.

West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, it is coming together against Iran and both —&nbsp;Iran and Pakistan — are close to China.

The virtual GCC discussion was held this morning at a time when India's foreign affairs minister is in Qatar.

There is another very significant visit that's underway. India's Army Chief is on a three-day visit to South Korea. Seoul has been one of India's major weapon suppliers. It also happens to be a country that is witnessing growing rift with China.

On General Naravane's agenda is bolstering of military cooperation. He will be calling on the Korean defence minister,&nbsp;Army chief,&nbsp;chairman of joint chiefs of staff and Korea's minister of defence aquisition planning administration.

Another point to consider is that South Korea is fighting Chinese aggression at East China sea. It is pushing for maritime rules-based order. There is also an online war as the South Korean band BTS faced a backlash from Chinese state media. The common foe is very clearly visible in these developments.

India is setting the ground for the post-pandemic world and is slowly but surely stepping into a leadership role. The proofs are the unprecedented visits, cementing of ties, outreach programs, formation of startegic alliances and tapping into opportunities.

India is setting the ground for the post-pandemic world and is slowly but surely stepping into a leadership role. The proofs are the unprecedented visits, cementing of ties, outreach programs, formation of startegic alliances and tapping into opportunities. In October this year, India's army chief, General MM Naravane was in Myanmar and the next month he was in Nepal. Between the second and the third week of December, General MM Naravane visited Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The army chief's visit to Saudi Arabia was unprecedented. It came on the heels of Riyadh's deteriorating ties with Islamabad. Pakistan's army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa was not allowed to meet the Saudi crown prince in August but the Indian army chief was welcomed by the top Saudi generals. Also read| Jaishankar meets Qatari Amir, PM; discusses economic and security cooperation General's visit also came on the heels of India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar's visit to the UAE and Bahrain. As we speak, Jaishankar is in Qatar for a two-day visit. He attended an India-Qatar business roundtable and interacted with the Indian community there. He is also expected to meet the Qatari deputy prime minsiter and foreign minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. At least 700,000 Indians live in Qatar. Many Indian workers have benefited from Qatar's recent labour reforms which includes a 25 per cent hike in the minimum wage and dilution of a clause that required workers to take the employer's consent before switching jobs. In 2019, the bilateral trade between Qatar and India was worth $10.95 billion. The Qatar investment authority has invested $600 million in two Indian firms. Also read| Indian Army chief meets South Korea's top military brass to enhance bilateral ties Jaishankar's visit is expected to focus on trade and energy cooperation. You will also see that the visit goes beyond all of this as it has a lot to do with West Asia's shifting sands and an emerging post-pandemic world — one that's being built on strategic alliances. India views West Asia at its extended neighbourhood. West Asia is putting an end to historical and regional disputes. In the last five months, four Arab countries have formalised ties with Israel: UAE, Sudan, Morocco and Bahrain. The gulf cooperation council countries recently held talks on ending a rift with Qatar. It is talking about lifting air, land and water blockade of Qatar because the region has a common enemy — Iran. It just so happens that Iran is getting closer to China. However, another interesting observation is that China is also a country that India has a stand-off with in Ladakh. Also read| EAM tells Indian community in Qatar, economic confidence visible in India India's ties with West Asia are no longer anchored on just oil, diaspora and remittances. The relationship is now strategic as there are common foes. West Asia is distancing itself from Pakistan, it is coming together against Iran and both — Iran and Pakistan — are close to China. The virtual GCC discussion was held this morning at a time when India's foreign affairs minister is in Qatar. There is another very significant visit that's underway. India's Army Chief is on a three-day visit to South Korea. Seoul has been one of India's major weapon suppliers. It also happens to be a country that is witnessing growing rift with China. On General Naravane's agenda is bolstering of military cooperation. He will be calling on the Korean defence minister, Army chief, chairman of joint chiefs of staff and Korea's minister of defence aquisition planning administration. Another point to consider is that South Korea is fighting Chinese aggression at East China sea. It is pushing for maritime rules-based order. There is also an online war as the South Korean band BTS faced a backlash from Chinese state media. The common foe is very clearly visible in these developments.

How do India's growing ties with South Korea and Qatar pose a threat to China

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues.&nbsp;

On his meeting with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Jaishankar also handed over a personal communication from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

He also praised the amir's "warm sentiments for Indian community" and for his "vision" of taking the bilateral partnership to a "new level".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Called on H.H. <a href="https://twitter.com/TamimBinHamad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TamimBinHamad</a>, Amir of Qatar. Handed over a personal communication from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level. <a href="https://t.co/3UJpkc9zP1">pic.twitter.com/3UJpkc9zP1</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343549447578464256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level," Jaishankar wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

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Warm meeting with H.H Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. His leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations. Appreciated his insights on global and regional developments. <a href="https://t.co/8g0udJWoGq">pic.twitter.com/8g0udJWoGq</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343557067798323201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also met former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and said his "leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations" in a tweet.

During his meet with Prime Minister and Interior Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Jaishankar thanked him for looking after the Indian community during the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

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Called on PM and Interior Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/KBKAlThani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KBKAlThani</a>. Thanked him for the care given to the Indian community in Qatar during COVID times. Discussed strengthening our bilateral economic and security cooperation. <a href="https://t.co/3OWVqT2yN2">pic.twitter.com/3OWVqT2yN2</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343548827828178945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also said that the duo discussed strengthening economic and security cooperation.&nbsp;

Jaishankar also met Qatar's Deputy Prime Minter Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is also his counterpart, in which they discussed regional and multilateral developments.

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Thank <a href="https://twitter.com/MBA_AlThani_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MBA_AlThani_</a> Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Qatar for a very productive visit. Reviewed the entire gamut of our growing partnership. Discussed regional and multilateral developments. Looking forward to welcoming him to India for the Joint Commission meeting. <a href="https://t.co/f1UY1gCCyK">pic.twitter.com/f1UY1gCCyK</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1343569398024560640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also called his visit "productive" in the meet with deputy PM.&nbsp;

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues.

India's foreign minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Qatar's top leaders including Qatari Amir, prime minister, deputy prime minister, foreign minister and interior minister and discussed strengthening the economic and security bilateral cooperation, among other issues. On his meeting with Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, Jaishankar also handed over a personal communication from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also praised the amir's "warm sentiments for Indian community" and for his "vision" of taking the bilateral partnership to a "new level". Called on H.H. @TamimBinHamad, Amir of Qatar. Handed over a personal communication from PM @narendramodi. Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level. pic.twitter.com/3UJpkc9zP1 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × "Deeply value H.H.'s warm sentiments for Indian community. Impressed by his vision of taking our partnership to a new level," Jaishankar wrote in a tweet. Warm meeting with H.H Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. His leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations. Appreciated his insights on global and regional developments. pic.twitter.com/8g0udJWoGq — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also met former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani and said his "leadership continues to guide India-Qatar relations" in a tweet. During his meet with Prime Minister and Interior Minister Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Jaishankar thanked him for looking after the Indian community during the coronavirus pandemic. Called on PM and Interior Minister @KBKAlThani. Thanked him for the care given to the Indian community in Qatar during COVID times. Discussed strengthening our bilateral economic and security cooperation. pic.twitter.com/3OWVqT2yN2 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also said that the duo discussed strengthening economic and security cooperation. Jaishankar also met Qatar's Deputy Prime Minter Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is also his counterpart, in which they discussed regional and multilateral developments. Thank @MBA_AlThani_ Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Qatar for a very productive visit. Reviewed the entire gamut of our growing partnership. Discussed regional and multilateral developments. Looking forward to welcoming him to India for the Joint Commission meeting. pic.twitter.com/f1UY1gCCyK — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 28, 2020 × He also called his visit "productive" in the meet with deputy PM.

Jaishankar meets Qatari Amir, PM; discusses economic and security cooperation

Qatar is home to over seven lakh Indians. The bilateral trade was USD 10.95 billion in 2019-20, according to official data.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on 2-day visit to Qatar

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.

Seventh high-level visit from India to West Asia begins as Jaishankar reaches Qatar

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests".

Speaking at a virtual event, EAM Jaishankar said, "Indo-Pacific is not tomorrow’s forecast but yesterday’s reality....This change actually reflects a regional manifestation of larger global trends."

Watch |&nbsp;

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His comments come even as globally the concept is being adopted and welcomed.&nbsp;

India, the US, Japan, and Australia have been the main supporter of it and just last year ASEAN came out with its outlook on it. Many European countries like France, Germany, and The Netherlands have enunciated their official policies, and just earlier this week, British foreign secretary Dominic Raab briefed the Indian side about London's "Indo Pacific tilt"

Defining the region encompassing the concept, he said it is a "maritime space that connects Africa, Asia, Eurasia’s Pacific Coast, Oceania, and the Pacific Coast of the Americas." About 50% of global trade traverses the region and is home to 64% of the world population and 62% of global GDP.

India has been increasing its engagement with countries in the region under initiatives such as Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI).

EAM said, "The IPOI is an inclusive and open initiative, seeking to better manage, conserve, sustain and secure the maritime domain. It does not envisage creating a new institutional framework and will rely on ASEAN-led EAS framework, though not necessarily limited to it"

Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) has 7 pillars and was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019. Under the initiative, India and Australia will together host a conference on combating Marine Pollution &amp; Marine Plastic Debris which will bring together many countries of the region next year.

The EAM, interestingly raised the issue of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing saying, "IUU fishing in particular has emerged as an important issue and there is a need to address this through a regional framework of cooperation. India has undertaken to organize an EAS Conference in that regard."

When it comes to IUU fishing, it is the Chinese vessels that have been indulging in such activity, draining oceanic regions near Latin America to North Korea out of resources.

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests".

Batting yet again for the Indo Pacific concept, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "Indo-Pacific is actually a bread-and-butter expression" of "our political, economic, connectivity, travel, and societal interests". Speaking at a virtual event, EAM Jaishankar said, "Indo-Pacific is not tomorrow’s forecast but yesterday’s reality....This change actually reflects a regional manifestation of larger global trends." Watch | His comments come even as globally the concept is being adopted and welcomed. India, the US, Japan, and Australia have been the main supporter of it and just last year ASEAN came out with its outlook on it. Many European countries like France, Germany, and The Netherlands have enunciated their official policies, and just earlier this week, British foreign secretary Dominic Raab briefed the Indian side about London's "Indo Pacific tilt" Defining the region encompassing the concept, he said it is a "maritime space that connects Africa, Asia, Eurasia’s Pacific Coast, Oceania, and the Pacific Coast of the Americas." About 50% of global trade traverses the region and is home to 64% of the world population and 62% of global GDP. India has been increasing its engagement with countries in the region under initiatives such as Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI). EAM said, "The IPOI is an inclusive and open initiative, seeking to better manage, conserve, sustain and secure the maritime domain. It does not envisage creating a new institutional framework and will rely on ASEAN-led EAS framework, though not necessarily limited to it" Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative (IPOI) has 7 pillars and was proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in November 2019. Under the initiative, India and Australia will together host a conference on combating Marine Pollution & Marine Plastic Debris which will bring together many countries of the region next year. The EAM, interestingly raised the issue of Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing saying, "IUU fishing in particular has emerged as an important issue and there is a need to address this through a regional framework of cooperation. India has undertaken to organize an EAS Conference in that regard." When it comes to IUU fishing, it is the Chinese vessels that have been indulging in such activity, draining oceanic regions near Latin America to North Korea out of resources.

Indo-Pacific is a 'bread-and-butter expression' says EAM

Minister of State in the ministry of external affairs V. Muraleedharan will on a visit to Oman in the 3rd high-level visit from India to West Asia amidst the pandemic. The last few weeks have seen External affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar visiting Bahrain and UAE, followed by the visit of Indian army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane to UAE and Saudi Arabia. &nbsp;

MoS will embark on a visit to Oman on December 16&nbsp;and 17&nbsp;and will meet Oman's foreign and labour minister and the large Indian community members. Oman hosts more than 600,000 Indians. &nbsp;

PM Modi has spoken to Sultan of Oman Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik in April and both Indian and Omani Foreign ministers had a virtual meeting earlier this month.

Amidst the pandemic, India ensured that supply chains for food and other essential items functioned smoothly and facilitated the return of health professionals to Oman. Both countries event have an air bubble arrangement for travel and recently Oman announced that Indians will be exempted from entry visas for visiting Oman for a period of ten days.

The MEA release announcing the visit said, "India and Oman are linked by geography, history and culture and enjoy warm and cordial relations."

India sees west Asia as part of its extended neighborhood, and the past few years have been increased engagement and high-level visits. The region which hosts a large number of Indians, mostly Blue-collar worker is also vital for India's energy security in terms of crude oil import.

Increasingly, India is engaging in defense cooperation and connectivity in the region.

The recent normalization of ties of Arab states with Israel under the Abraham accords has been welcomed by India, as it sees many of its allies in the region, once estranged, now coming together.

Minister of State in the ministry of external affairs V. Muraleedharan will on a visit to Oman in the 3rd high-level visit from India to West Asia amidst the pandemic.

Minister of State in the ministry of external affairs V. Muraleedharan will on a visit to Oman in the 3rd high-level visit from India to West Asia amidst the pandemic. The last few weeks have seen External affairs minister Dr. S Jaishankar visiting Bahrain and UAE, followed by the visit of Indian army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane to UAE and Saudi Arabia. MoS will embark on a visit to Oman on December 16 and 17 and will meet Oman's foreign and labour minister and the large Indian community members. Oman hosts more than 600,000 Indians. PM Modi has spoken to Sultan of Oman Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik in April and both Indian and Omani Foreign ministers had a virtual meeting earlier this month. Amidst the pandemic, India ensured that supply chains for food and other essential items functioned smoothly and facilitated the return of health professionals to Oman. Both countries event have an air bubble arrangement for travel and recently Oman announced that Indians will be exempted from entry visas for visiting Oman for a period of ten days. The MEA release announcing the visit said, "India and Oman are linked by geography, history and culture and enjoy warm and cordial relations." India sees west Asia as part of its extended neighborhood, and the past few years have been increased engagement and high-level visits. The region which hosts a large number of Indians, mostly Blue-collar worker is also vital for India's energy security in terms of crude oil import. Increasingly, India is engaging in defense cooperation and connectivity in the region. The recent normalization of ties of Arab states with Israel under the Abraham accords has been welcomed by India, as it sees many of its allies in the region, once estranged, now coming together.

Minister of State in MEA to visit Oman in third high-level visit from India to West Asia amid coronavirus pandemic

UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab arrives for his official visit to India. India-UK partnership is poised for greater synergy in a post-COVID, post-Brexit context.

WION Dispatch: 'UK, India committed to build strong defence-security ties', says Dominic Raab

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on 4-day India visit, hold talks with S Jaishankar

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