India has criticized Pakistan's attempt of raising the Kashmir issue at SAARC video conference organized to talk out a strategy to fight COVID-19. Watch what Indian MEA said on this issue.

MEA: Pakistan is politicising a humanitarian issue at SAARC video conference

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said, "we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

WION Dispatch: France welcomes India's active role in G20, Lauds SAARC video conference

Following the SAARC template which came to fruition yesterday, G7 countries conducted a video conference today to address the COVID-19 outbreak. During the conference, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) expressed the conviction that ''current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilising the strengths of private enterprise''.

G7 follows SAARC's suit, conducts a video conference to chalk out COVID-19 plan

With seven new cases, the number of infections in Sri Lanka has spiked to 19. As a precautionary measure, Srilankan airlines have asked passengers to carry their own blankets and headphones.

Coronavirus cases on the rise in South Asia

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-lack-healthcare-facilities-would-be-devastated-if-swamped-by-covid-19-imran-khan-287033"><strong>We lack healthcare facilities, would be devastated if swamped by Covid-19: Imran Khan</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e4545f8-11de-4723-ad8a-b10028968b58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_32.jpg" /></p>

<p>Pakistan PM said that if a serious outbreak happens in the country, the government’s efforts to lift the economy out of near-collapse would begin an unstoppable slide backwards.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-lack-healthcare-facilities-would-be-devastated-if-swamped-by-covid-19-imran-khan-287033"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-health-ministry-issues-travel-advisory-bans-passengers-from-afghanistan-and-malaysia-287037"><strong>Coronavirus outbreak: Indian health ministry issues travel advisory, bans passengers from Afghanistan and Malaysia</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30da2ad0-d2d2-4d4f-80a6-06bb04d4c9d2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_20.jpg" /><br />
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare put up travel advisories on March 11 and 16, and the land borders of the country have also been being monitored. In continuation with these efforts, the ministry on Tuesday issued another advisory.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-health-ministry-issues-travel-advisory-bans-passengers-from-afghanistan-and-malaysia-287037"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-doctors-predict-how-long-it-would-take-for-a-patient-to-recover-from-covid-19-286972"><strong>Can doctors predict how long it would take for a patient to recover from COVID-19?</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="12368f49-29c7-44d0-92d3-cad7fc6c21b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_19.jpg" /></p>

<p>As of now, the virus has infected over 168,000 people globally with more than 6,000 deaths reported.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-doctors-predict-how-long-it-would-take-for-a-patient-to-recover-from-covid-19-286972"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attempting-to-disinfect-south-korean-church-officials-mistakenly-infect-people-with-covid-19-287013"><strong>Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19<br />
<br />
<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85990220-c7b1-4cf0-8943-200f9865341e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/4_4.jpg" /></strong></a></p>

<p>As per media reports, the church has 135 followers, out of whom 90 were in attendance on March 8.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attempting-to-disinfect-south-korean-church-officials-mistakenly-infect-people-with-covid-19-287013"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-pandemic-how-can-you-protect-yourself-all-important-questions-answered-287019"><strong>In pics: Coronavirus pandemic — How can you protect yourself? All important questions answered</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="World Health Organisation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a73572b2-848a-4629-bdaf-8c68db85b18c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5_1.jpg" /></p>

<p>The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic as the virus has infected over 183,000 people globally with more than 7,000 deaths reported.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coronavirus-pandemic-how-can-you-protect-yourself-all-important-questions-answered-287019"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

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We lack healthcare facilities, would be devastated if swamped by Covid-19: Imran Khan Pakistan PM said that if a serious outbreak happens in the country, the government’s efforts to lift the economy out of near-collapse would begin an unstoppable slide backwards.

We lack healthcare facilities, would be devastated if swamped by Covid-19: Imran Khan Pakistan PM said that if a serious outbreak happens in the country, the government’s efforts to lift the economy out of near-collapse would begin an unstoppable slide backwards.READ MORE Coronavirus outbreak: Indian health ministry issues travel advisory, bans passengers from Afghanistan and Malaysia The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare put up travel advisories on March 11 and 16, and the land borders of the country have also been being monitored. In continuation with these efforts, the ministry on Tuesday issued another advisory.READ MORE Can doctors predict how long it would take for a patient to recover from COVID-19? As of now, the virus has infected over 168,000 people globally with more than 6,000 deaths reported.READ MORE Attempting to disinfect, South Korean church officials mistakenly infect people with COVID-19 As per media reports, the church has 135 followers, out of whom 90 were in attendance on March 8.READ MORE In pics: Coronavirus pandemic — How can you protect yourself? All important questions answered The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared coronavirus outbreak a pandemic as the virus has infected over 183,000 people globally with more than 7,000 deaths reported.READ MORE

Top 10 world news: Covid-19 in Pakistan, India issues travel advisory

Wuhan virus spread across the Nation. South Asia battels against coronavirus.

South Asia tackles Covid 19-spread

<p>As SAARC leaders gathered to fight novel coronavirus outbreak, India proposed a series of measures, including setting up an emergency fund where New Delhi offered $10 million to get it going.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-must-act-succeed-together-pm-modi-at-saarc-conference-286516">'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to leaders of other countries from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in a video conference, PM Narendra Modi said said "any of us" can use the fund for "immediate actions" to deal with the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/collective-response-needed-to-tackle-coronavirus-outbreak-saarc-leaders-286546">Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>PM&nbsp; Modi also said that India would offer rapid response teams of experts and specialists to member nations, which include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>He also suggested of creating&nbsp;a common research platform "to coordinate research on controlling epidemic diseases within our South Asian region". He said Indian Council of Medical Research could offer help in coordinating such association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have set up an Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to better trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted. We could share this Disease Surveillance software with SAARC partners," the Indian prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi in its message to SAARC leaders said, "We must all act together, we must all succeed together". The other SAARC nations also agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SAARC, which didn't gain much success in recent years, was revived recently when PM Modi on Friday proposed a video-conference of SAARC members to chalk out a "strong strategy" to fight the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


As SAARC leaders gathered to fight novel coronavirus outbreak, India proposed a series of measures, including setting up an emergency fund where New Delhi offered $10 million to get it going.

As SAARC leaders gathered to fight novel coronavirus outbreak, India proposed a series of measures, including setting up an emergency fund where New Delhi offered $10 million to get it going. Also read | 'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference Speaking to leaders of other countries from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in a video conference, PM Narendra Modi said said "any of us" can use the fund for "immediate actions" to deal with the pandemic. Also read | Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders PM Modi also said that India would offer rapid response teams of experts and specialists to member nations, which include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. He also suggested of creating a common research platform "to coordinate research on controlling epidemic diseases within our South Asian region". He said Indian Council of Medical Research could offer help in coordinating such association. "We have set up an Integrated Disease Surveillance Portal to better trace possible virus carriers and the people they contacted. We could share this Disease Surveillance software with SAARC partners," the Indian prime minister said. PM Modi in its message to SAARC leaders said, "We must all act together, we must all succeed together". The other SAARC nations also agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. The SAARC, which didn't gain much success in recent years, was revived recently when PM Modi on Friday proposed a video-conference of SAARC members to chalk out a "strong strategy" to fight the pandemic.

Emergency fund, rapid response team: All what India offered to SAARC

All leaders in the 8-nation regional grouping (SAARC) welcomed PM Modi’s suggestion and agreed to join the conference, except Pakistan PM Imran Khan, who has deputed his special advisor on health to participate in.

Coronavirus Pandemic: SAARC Nations come together to fight virus

The underlying message of the video conference was unitedly taking on the virus, but Pakistan used the occasion to raise the Kashmir issue, calling for immediate lifting of the "lockdown" there to allow disease containment measures.

Coronavirus SAARC Meet: Pakistan's attempt to belittle India?

<p>Nepal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led initiative of calling a SAARC conference on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, and has termed it "timely". He said it shows the grouping is not "dead" and at the time of need can "come together... irrespective of any differences".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an exclusive conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent, Nepal envoy Nilambar Acharya also said it was not the time to discuss things that "disunite us" when asked about Pakistan raking up the Kashmir issue while discussing coronavirus in the video conference of SAARC countries.</p>

<p><strong>Excerpts from the interview --</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see the India-led initiative to revive SAARC?</p>

<p><strong>Nilambar Acharya:</strong> It is an exemplary conference and a great initiative by PM Modi. It was very timely, and appropriate in combining our efforts to control the spread of coronavirus. It was the first video conference and first coming together of eight countries -- leaders of SAARC after 2014, the last summit of the SAARC.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> The conference instils&nbsp;hope that SAARC can be revived, given no meet has happened since 2014. Isn't it?</p>

<p><strong>Nilambar Acharya:</strong> First of all, it shows SAARC is not dead; it shows SAARC can come together in time of need, irrespective of differences. It shows the SAARC region has many things in common, and that it is one force in protecting the region from disasters and pandemics. PM Modi's initiative also shows India's&nbsp;role, and its place in this region. Collective problems should be addressed collectively.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see PM Modi announcing measures for SAARC region -- a $10 million fund and response teams?</p>

<p><strong>Nilambar Acharya:</strong> PM Modi has taken a very timely and a very wise initiative, and he&nbsp;has given hope that this region can set an example of how it can confront problems collectively. A rapid response team of doctors has been placed. It will be at the disposal of SAARC countries. Additionally, an emergency fund of $10 million from India side and other countries will also come. There are follow up actions planned, and that too within a week. Another video conference will happen; meetings will happen. This is a crisis, but it has brought leaders of the region together.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> One country raked bilateral issues at the SAARC conference meet. What do you have to say about it?</p>

<p><strong>Nilambar Acharya:</strong> We should not discuss what disunites us. It is time to discuss what unites us in order to collectively face the crisis.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> What are the measures Nepal has taken to contain the virus?</p>

<p><strong>Nilambar Acharya:</strong> We are vigilant. Prepared but not panicking, as PM Modi said. Preparations are going on, and we are very cautious -- like we are maintaining hygiene, and not taking up foreign visits.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Nepal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led initiative of calling a SAARC conference on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, and has termed it "timely".

Nepal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led initiative of calling a SAARC conference on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, and has termed it "timely". He said it shows the grouping is not "dead" and at the time of need can "come together... irrespective of any differences". In an exclusive conversation with WION's diplomatic correspondent, Nepal envoy Nilambar Acharya also said it was not the time to discuss things that "disunite us" when asked about Pakistan raking up the Kashmir issue while discussing coronavirus in the video conference of SAARC countries. Excerpts from the interview -- WION: How do you see the India-led initiative to revive SAARC? Nilambar Acharya: It is an exemplary conference and a great initiative by PM Modi. It was very timely, and appropriate in combining our efforts to control the spread of coronavirus. It was the first video conference and first coming together of eight countries -- leaders of SAARC after 2014, the last summit of the SAARC. WION: The conference instils hope that SAARC can be revived, given no meet has happened since 2014. Isn't it? Nilambar Acharya: First of all, it shows SAARC is not dead; it shows SAARC can come together in time of need, irrespective of differences. It shows the SAARC region has many things in common, and that it is one force in protecting the region from disasters and pandemics. PM Modi's initiative also shows India's role, and its place in this region. Collective problems should be addressed collectively. WION: How do you see PM Modi announcing measures for SAARC region -- a $10 million fund and response teams? Nilambar Acharya: PM Modi has taken a very timely and a very wise initiative, and he has given hope that this region can set an example of how it can confront problems collectively. A rapid response team of doctors has been placed. It will be at the disposal of SAARC countries. Additionally, an emergency fund of $10 million from India side and other countries will also come. There are follow up actions planned, and that too within a week. Another video conference will happen; meetings will happen. This is a crisis, but it has brought leaders of the region together. WION: One country raked bilateral issues at the SAARC conference meet. What do you have to say about it? Nilambar Acharya: We should not discuss what disunites us. It is time to discuss what unites us in order to collectively face the crisis. WION: What are the measures Nepal has taken to contain the virus? Nilambar Acharya: We are vigilant. Prepared but not panicking, as PM Modi said. Preparations are going on, and we are very cautious -- like we are maintaining hygiene, and not taking up foreign visits.

Wise initiative by PM Modi to call SAARC conference on coronavirus outbreak: Nepal

<p>Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wise-initiative-by-pm-modi-to-call-saarc-conference-on-coronavirus-outbreak-nepal-286778">Wise initiative by PM Modi to call SAARC conference on coronavirus outbreak: Nepal</a></strong></p>

<p>"I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVID19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend the fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity," Rajapaksa tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thank PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> for his initiative to combat <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID%E3%83%BC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDー19</a> with cooperation among <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARCNations?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARCNations</a>.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a> will extend fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity</p>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1239363147271565313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Participants from all eight SAARC nations India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Bhutan held a video conference to exchange their views and share experiences in fighting the pandemic that has killed more than 6000 people globally.</p>

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<p>The conference witnessed Prime Minister Modi proposing the creation of a COVID-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund.</p>

<p>During the conference, Rajapaksa had recommended that SAARC leaders work together to help the economy tide over the difficult period.</p>

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<p>"He (Rajapaksa) also recommended the establishment of a SAARC ministerial-level group to share best practices and coordinate regional matters on combating COVID-19," as per a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.</p>


Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Wise initiative by PM Modi to call SAARC conference on coronavirus outbreak: Nepal "I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVID19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend the fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity," Rajapaksa tweeted. I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVIDー19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) March 16, 2020 × Participants from all eight SAARC nations India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Bhutan held a video conference to exchange their views and share experiences in fighting the pandemic that has killed more than 6000 people globally. × The conference witnessed Prime Minister Modi proposing the creation of a COVID-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund. During the conference, Rajapaksa had recommended that SAARC leaders work together to help the economy tide over the difficult period. × "He (Rajapaksa) also recommended the establishment of a SAARC ministerial-level group to share best practices and coordinate regional matters on combating COVID-19," as per a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Sri Lankan president thanks PM Modi for SAARC conference; promises Colombo's support to combat COVID-19

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/precaution-not-panic-here-are-narratives-of-people-who-have-successfully-recovered-from-covid-19-286789"><strong>Precaution, not panic: Here are narratives of people who have successfully recovered from Covid-19</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d42ca906-6e60-4ac0-8e83-8afebeb44469" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/coronavirus1.jpg" /></p>

<p>Here are the narratives of a few patients from around the world who have now recovered and are exercising restraint. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/precaution-not-panic-here-are-narratives-of-people-who-have-successfully-recovered-from-covid-19-286789"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

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<p>The World Health Organization has declared Europe to be the new "epicentre" of the virus as cases of the virus had ebbed in China. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-situation-deteriorating-very-fast-says-france-as-death-toll-rises-in-europe-286658"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

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<p>In an exclusive chat with WION, mutliple-time World Chess Champion, Viswanathan Anand opened up about his extended stay in Frankfurt, Germany amid coronavirus pandemic.<strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-left-with-no-choice-viswanathan-anand-stuck-in-germany-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-286783">READ MORE</a></strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-posts-controversial-tweet-on-kashmir-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-faces-severe-backlash-from-netizens-286724"><strong>Shoaib Akhtar posts controversial tweet on Kashmir amid coronavirus pandemic, faces severe backlash from netizens</strong></a></p>

<p><strong><img alt="Shoaib Akhtar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3df204c3-a266-40e8-a9fd-f3e9f90cb2ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/shoaib.jpg" /></strong></p>

<p>Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar took to Twitter to post a controversial tweet on Kashmir amid the coronavirus pandemic. As soon as Akhtar posted the controversial tweet, he was subject to widespread backlash from the netizens.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-posts-controversial-tweet-on-kashmir-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-faces-severe-backlash-from-netizens-286724">&nbsp;<strong>READ MORE</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/16-myths-on-coronavirus-pandemic-286655"><strong>In pictures: 16 myths on coronavirus pandemic</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="coronavirus myths" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70100828-cef8-4973-96e5-32576c2b43ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/133127-untitled-design38.jpg" /></p>

<p>Here are certain myth busters to eliminate the misconceptions among the people regarding the virus.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Precaution, not panic: Here are narratives of people who have successfully recovered from Covid-19 Here are the narratives of a few patients from around the world who have now recovered and are exercising restraint.

Precaution, not panic: Here are narratives of people who have successfully recovered from Covid-19 Here are the narratives of a few patients from around the world who have now recovered and are exercising restraint. READ MORE Coronavirus: Situation deteriorating very fast, says France as death toll rises in Europe The World Health Organization has declared Europe to be the new "epicentre" of the virus as cases of the virus had ebbed in China. READ MORE EXCLUSIVE: 'Left with no choice,' Viswanathan Anand stuck in Germany amid coronavirus pandemic In an exclusive chat with WION, mutliple-time World Chess Champion, Viswanathan Anand opened up about his extended stay in Frankfurt, Germany amid coronavirus pandemic. READ MORE Shoaib Akhtar posts controversial tweet on Kashmir amid coronavirus pandemic, faces severe backlash from netizens Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar took to Twitter to post a controversial tweet on Kashmir amid the coronavirus pandemic. As soon as Akhtar posted the controversial tweet, he was subject to widespread backlash from the netizens. READ MORE In pictures: 16 myths on coronavirus pandemic Here are certain myth busters to eliminate the misconceptions among the people regarding the virus.

Top 10 world news: Covid-19 survivors speak out, chess maestro stuck in Germany and more

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that religious, social, cultural and political ceremonies, as well as protests by more than 50 people, would not be allowed until 31 March in view of the outbreak of coronavirus in the national capital.

Delhi CM Kejriwal takes measures to contain COVID-19 outbreak, stoppage on public gatherings!

In this video, WION exclusively speaks to Dr Sanjeev Choubey, Medical Director at St. Michel Hospital who stayed back in Wuhan to help COVID-19 patients day-night.

LIVE : Doctor who stayed back in Wuhan to help COVID-19 patients day-night!

<p>While the Saarc video conference was attended by either the heads of states or the heads of governments, of South Asian nations, a notable miss was Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan.</p>

<p>Imran Khan was represented by his special advisor on health Zafar Mirza.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/collective-response-needed-to-tackle-coronavirus-outbreak-saarc-leaders-286546">Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>What this goes on to demonstrate is that perhaps Pak prime minister did not find the novel coronavirus an issue pressing enough.</p>

<p>Sources within the Indian ministry of external affairs have hit out at what they call was a politicisation of a regional platform in times of duress.</p>

<p>Sources also said that it was petty and churlish of Imran Khan not to attend the video conference.</p>

<p>While leaders from all other nations thanked prime minister Narendra Modi for getting them together in the saarc video conference. Pak's representative Zafar Mirza subtly bypassed this.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-must-act-succeed-together-pm-modi-at-saarc-conference-286516">'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference</a></strong></p>

<p>He began his address by wishing good health to Nepalese pm Kp Sharma Oli and moved on with a status report on how Pakistan was dealing with the virus.</p>

<p>Zafar Mirza didn't even acknowledge the Indian prime minister.</p>

<p>What also came as a total surprise was the mention of china.</p>

<p>Saarc is a group of south Asian nations. China is not a south Asian nation hence, not a member.</p>

<p>But Pakistan made it a point to praise China for its efforts in tackling coronavirus.</p>


While the Saarc video conference was attended by either the heads of states or the heads of governments, of South Asian nations, a notable miss was Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan.

While the Saarc video conference was attended by either the heads of states or the heads of governments, of South Asian nations, a notable miss was Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan. Imran Khan was represented by his special advisor on health Zafar Mirza. Also Read: Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders What this goes on to demonstrate is that perhaps Pak prime minister did not find the novel coronavirus an issue pressing enough. Sources within the Indian ministry of external affairs have hit out at what they call was a politicisation of a regional platform in times of duress. Sources also said that it was petty and churlish of Imran Khan not to attend the video conference. While leaders from all other nations thanked prime minister Narendra Modi for getting them together in the saarc video conference. Pak's representative Zafar Mirza subtly bypassed this. Also Read: 'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference He began his address by wishing good health to Nepalese pm Kp Sharma Oli and moved on with a status report on how Pakistan was dealing with the virus. Zafar Mirza didn't even acknowledge the Indian prime minister. What also came as a total surprise was the mention of china. Saarc is a group of south Asian nations. China is not a south Asian nation hence, not a member. But Pakistan made it a point to praise China for its efforts in tackling coronavirus.

Imran Khan misses SAARC video conference amid coronavirus outbreak

In this video, WION tries to give the answers to some basic and important questions on Coronavirus (COVID-19) that is spreading across the globe and has been emerged as a 'pandemic' by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

WION answers the top-5 questions on 'pandemic' COVID-19

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in & lead a video conference with leaders and representatives of SAARC countries to formulate a joint strategy to fight the coronavirus outbreak that killed more than 6,000 people worldwide. PM Modi proposed setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said India can start with a contribution of 10 million USD and any of the SAARC nations can use this fund.

India leads the way to combat coronavirus outbreak

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in & lead a video conference with leaders and representatives of SAARC countries to formulate a joint strategy to fight the coronavirus outbreak that killed more than 5,000 people worldwide. PM Modi proposed setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said India can start with a contribution of 10 million USD and any of the SAARC nations can use this fund.

SAARC nations come together to combat coronavirus

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in & lead a video conference with leaders and representatives of SAARC countries to formulate a joint strategy to fight the coronavirus outbreak that killed more than 5,000 people worldwide.

PM Modi holds SAARC video conference, Watch to know major key takeaways!

Former Ambassador to the United States Mr Arun Singh shares his thoughts over SAARC video conference on COVID-19 held on Sunday at 5 PM.

Ex-Ambassador to US shares his thoughts over SAARC video conference on COVID-19

PM Modi on Friday proposed a joint strategy by SAARC nations to fight coronavirus, a suggestion that was supported by all member states. He also called for the creation of a coronavirus emergency fund.

India makes useful suggestions in SAARC video conference to fight COVID-19

<p><strong>Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/collective-response-needed-to-tackle-coronavirus-outbreak-saarc-leaders-286546"><strong>Read more</strong></a>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Coronavirus: 113 new deaths in Iran, toll reaches 724</strong></p>

<p>Iran on Sunday reported 113 more coronavirus deaths, health ministry official confirmed. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-113-new-deaths-in-iran-toll-reaches-724-286512"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Czech Prime Minister eyes nationwide quarantine, expects rise in coronavirus cases</strong></p>

<p>Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said on Sunday the government would likely declare a quarantine for the entire country to fight the coronavirus outbreak. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/czech-prime-minister-eyes-nationwide-quarantine-expects-rise-in-coronavirus-cases-286548"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Trump tests negative for coronavirus, extends travel ban to Britain, Ireland</strong></p>

<p>Donald Trump tested negative for the coronavirus, his doctor said on Saturday, as the US president extended a travel ban to Britain and Ireland to try to slow the spread of a pandemic that has shut down much of the daily routine of American life. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tests-negative-for-coronavirus-extends-travel-ban-to-britain-ireland-286447"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Syria's brutal war enters 10th year</strong></p>

<p>Syria's brutal conflict entered its 10th year Sunday with President Bashar al-Assad's regime consolidating its hold over a war-wracked country where foreign powers are flexing their muscle. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-brutal-war-enters-10th-year-286518"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Virus 'god's punishment' of west: Zimbabwe minister</strong></p>

<p>Zimbabwe's defence minister has called the coronavirus pandemic a "punishment" of the US and Europe for imposing sanctions against members of the ruling regime over human rights abuses. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-gods-punishment-of-west-zimbabwe-minister-286515"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>UK to bring legislate to force people to quarantine: Health Secretary</strong></p>

<p>Britain will have the power to force people to quarantine if necessary as part of its strategy to fight coronavirus, Health Secretary Matt Hancock told BBC television on Sunday (March 15). <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-bring-legislate-to-force-people-to-quarantine-health-secretary-286521">Read more</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Coronavirus crisis delays start of Netanyahu corruption trial</strong></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial was delayed on Sunday for two months, until May, due to the coronavirus crisis. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-crisis-delays-start-of-netanyahu-corruption-trial-286472"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Singapore opposition parties urge government against elections amid coronavirus</strong></p>

<p>Singapore's opposition parties are calling on the government to not hold a general election during the coronavirus outbreak, with one party saying such a move would be "irresponsible". <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-opposition-parties-urge-government-against-elections-amid-coronavirus-286470"><strong>Read more</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>South Korea designates hard-hit regions as disaster zones</strong></p>

<p>South Korea on Sunday reported 76 new coronavirus cases and three more deaths, a fall in new cases to double-digits for the first time in over three weeks, as President Moon Jae-in declared the hardest-hit provinces "special disaster zones". <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-designates-hard-hit-regions-as-disaster-zones-286469"><strong>Read more</strong></a><br />
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Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak.

Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Read more Coronavirus: 113 new deaths in Iran, toll reaches 724 Iran on Sunday reported 113 more coronavirus deaths, health ministry official confirmed. Read more Czech Prime Minister eyes nationwide quarantine, expects rise in coronavirus cases Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said on Sunday the government would likely declare a quarantine for the entire country to fight the coronavirus outbreak. Read more Trump tests negative for coronavirus, extends travel ban to Britain, Ireland Donald Trump tested negative for the coronavirus, his doctor said on Saturday, as the US president extended a travel ban to Britain and Ireland to try to slow the spread of a pandemic that has shut down much of the daily routine of American life. Read more Syria's brutal war enters 10th year Syria's brutal conflict entered its 10th year Sunday with President Bashar al-Assad's regime consolidating its hold over a war-wracked country where foreign powers are flexing their muscle. Read more Virus 'god's punishment' of west: Zimbabwe minister Zimbabwe's defence minister has called the coronavirus pandemic a "punishment" of the US and Europe for imposing sanctions against members of the ruling regime over human rights abuses. Read more UK to bring legislate to force people to quarantine: Health Secretary Britain will have the power to force people to quarantine if necessary as part of its strategy to fight coronavirus, Health Secretary Matt Hancock told BBC television on Sunday (March 15). Read more Coronavirus crisis delays start of Netanyahu corruption trial Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial was delayed on Sunday for two months, until May, due to the coronavirus crisis. Read more Singapore opposition parties urge government against elections amid coronavirus Singapore's opposition parties are calling on the government to not hold a general election during the coronavirus outbreak, with one party saying such a move would be "irresponsible". Read more South Korea designates hard-hit regions as disaster zones South Korea on Sunday reported 76 new coronavirus cases and three more deaths, a fall in new cases to double-digits for the first time in over three weeks, as President Moon Jae-in declared the hardest-hit provinces "special disaster zones". Read more

Top 10 world news: SAARC conference, 113 new deaths in Iran, and more

SAARC leaders are set to hold a summit on video-conference on coronavirus on Sunday, 5 pm, after Pakistan late Friday night accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposal to hold such a meeting.

PM Modi to lead SAARC video conference on Covid-19

I propose that we create a COVID-19 Emergency Fund. It can be based on the voluntary contributions of all of us. In the SAARC countries video conference, PM Modi said that India can start with an initial offer of US $ 10 million for this fund.

PM Modi proposes emergency funds for 'pandemic' COVID-19 in SAARC nations video conference

<p>As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines &amp; basic goods".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-must-act-succeed-together-pm-modi-at-saarc-conference-286516">'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference</a></strong></p>

<p>He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibusolih</a><br />
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Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/DzAGWYbYc2">pic.twitter.com/DzAGWYbYc2</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1239157605068496897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'I propose we create a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> emergency fund... India can start with a contribution of 10m USD..... Any of us can use the fund', says PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><br />
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Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/aJTDjkA1Z9">pic.twitter.com/aJTDjkA1Z9</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1239168213843206145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'All <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> countries need to collaborate to fight this pandemic...We need to share our collective capacity, expertise, and resources', says Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh<br />
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Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a> <a href="https://t.co/nJ4fb7LPM1">pic.twitter.com/nJ4fb7LPM1</a></p>
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<p>She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'Our collective wisdom will help us in fighting the virus,' says Prime Minister of Nepal <a href="https://twitter.com/PM_Nepal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PM_Nepal</a><br />
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Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/iSR65rv97J">https://t.co/iSR65rv97J</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sltnr8kooL">pic.twitter.com/Sltnr8kooL</a></p>
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<p>Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'We should learn from and disseminate the experience of SAARC observer states, especially China', says <a href="https://twitter.com/zfrmrza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zfrmrza</a>, State Minister of Health, Pakistan<br />
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Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/U43cY2fXDa">pic.twitter.com/U43cY2fXDa</a></p>
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<p>He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".&nbsp;</p>


As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods".

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods". Also read: 'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak. Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, @ibusolih Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/DzAGWYbYc2 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks. "I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said. PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'I propose we create a #Covid19 emergency fund... India can start with a contribution of 10m USD..... Any of us can use the fund', says PM @narendramodi Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/aJTDjkA1Z9 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'All #SAARC countries need to collaborate to fight this pandemic...We need to share our collective capacity, expertise, and resources', says Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/nJ4fb7LPM1 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19. "Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'Our collective wisdom will help us in fighting the virus,' says Prime Minister of Nepal @PM_Nepal Watch live here: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J #coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/Sltnr8kooL — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences. Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should learn from and disseminate the experience of SAARC observer states, especially China', says @zfrmrza, State Minister of Health, Pakistan Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/U43cY2fXDa — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".

Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders 

PM Modi said in SAARC Video Conference that India took a "step-by-step" approach and that helped in avoiding panic. Earlier on Friday, PM Modi proposed the video-conference of SAARC nations to chalk out a "strong strategy" to fight COVID-19.

PM Modi gives introductory speech in SAARC nations video conference on COVID-19

<p>"We must all act together, we must all succeed together," was the message of PM Narendra Modi as he addressed SAARC leaders&nbsp;through a video-conference on Sunday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> coronavirus conference | 'We must all act together, we must all succeed together... Prepare, don't panic', asserts PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><br />
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<p>"Our people-to-people ties are ancient and our societies are deeply interconnected. Therefore, we must all prepare together, act together and succeed together," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>PM Modi also proposed setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said India can start with a contribution of 10 million&nbsp;USD and any of the SAARC nations can use this fund.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> coronavirus conference | 'Our SAARC vision is home to nearly 1/5th of all humanity, it is densely populated. As developing countries, all of us have significant challenges in terms of healthcare facilities', says PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><br />
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<p>PM Modi also praised steps taken by SAARC nations to control the outbreak, saying that the region reported less than 150 COVID-19 cases. However, he said, "we need to remain vigilant".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"'Prepare, but don't panic' has been India's guiding mantra in dealing with coronavirus outbreak," said PM Modi as he mentioned the various steps taken by the country to control the spread of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister said that the country started screening passengers from mid-January, gradually imposed travel restrictions and evacuated almost 1,500 people stranded abroad.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also said that India took a "step-by-step" approach and that helped in avoiding panic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, PM Modi proposed the video-conference of SAARC nations to chalk out a "strong strategy" to fight COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


"We must all act together, we must all succeed together," was the message of PM Narendra Modi as he addressed SAARC leaders through a video-conference on Sunday.

"We must all act together, we must all succeed together," was the message of PM Narendra Modi as he addressed SAARC leaders through a video-conference on Sunday. #SAARC coronavirus conference | 'We must all act together, we must all succeed together... Prepare, don't panic', asserts PM @narendramodi Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/axg7tIxGUO — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × "Our people-to-people ties are ancient and our societies are deeply interconnected. Therefore, we must all prepare together, act together and succeed together," PM Modi said. PM Modi also proposed setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said India can start with a contribution of 10 million USD and any of the SAARC nations can use this fund. #SAARC coronavirus conference | 'Our SAARC vision is home to nearly 1/5th of all humanity, it is densely populated. As developing countries, all of us have significant challenges in terms of healthcare facilities', says PM @narendramodi Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/70WO7TfsJ7 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × PM Modi also praised steps taken by SAARC nations to control the outbreak, saying that the region reported less than 150 COVID-19 cases. However, he said, "we need to remain vigilant". "'Prepare, but don't panic' has been India's guiding mantra in dealing with coronavirus outbreak," said PM Modi as he mentioned the various steps taken by the country to control the spread of the pandemic. The Indian prime minister said that the country started screening passengers from mid-January, gradually imposed travel restrictions and evacuated almost 1,500 people stranded abroad. PM Modi also said that India took a "step-by-step" approach and that helped in avoiding panic. Earlier on Friday, PM Modi proposed the video-conference of SAARC nations to chalk out a "strong strategy" to fight COVID-19.

'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference

In this video, WION Correspondent tells about the expected outcomes of the SAARC nations video conference today at 5 PM. SAARC leaders are set to hold a summit on video-conference on coronavirus on Sunday at 5 PM.

What are the expected outcomes of SAARC nations video conference over COVID-19?

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed a joint G20 strategy to fight Coronavirus after finalizing time-schedule for SAARC nations video conference. This was confirmed by Australian PM Scott Morrison at a press conference.

World leaders laud PM Modi's initiative, Australia welcomes PM Modi's calls for G20 linkup as well

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<p>The SAARC video conference on coronavirus outbreak&nbsp;proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, to&nbsp;take place on Sunday at 5 pm.</p>

<p>In a tweet, PM Modi said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus."</p>

<p>"We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy," he added.</p>

<p>All SAARC countries including Pakistan welcomed the idea and affirmed participation in the meet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan will be represented by Special Assistant to Pakistani Prime Minister (SAPM) on health Dr Zafar Mirza.</p>

<p>In a tweet, spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Aisha Farooqui said, "The threat of #COVID-19 requires coordinated efforts at global and regional level. We have communicated that SAPM on Health will be available to participate in the video conference of SAARC member countries on the issue."</p>

<p>This has been conveyed to the Indian side through diplomatic channels as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The measure is also seen as revival SAARC which as a grouping has been defunct since 2016 following a terror attack in Uri, India in which 19 Indian soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack was planned by Pakistan based terrorist which led to India boycotting the summit in Islamabad that year. New Delhi was joined by other SAARC countries to boycott the 2016 Islamabad summit and since then India has been focusing on BIMSTEC grouping whose leaders were invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi after he won the second term in 2019.&nbsp;</p>


The SAARC video conference on coronavirus outbreak proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, to take place on Sunday at 5 pm. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus.

The SAARC video conference on coronavirus outbreak proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, to take place on Sunday at 5 pm. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus." "We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy," he added. All SAARC countries including Pakistan welcomed the idea and affirmed participation in the meet. Pakistan will be represented by Special Assistant to Pakistani Prime Minister (SAPM) on health Dr Zafar Mirza. In a tweet, spokesperson of Pakistani Foreign Ministry Aisha Farooqui said, "The threat of #COVID-19 requires coordinated efforts at global and regional level. We have communicated that SAPM on Health will be available to participate in the video conference of SAARC member countries on the issue." This has been conveyed to the Indian side through diplomatic channels as well. The measure is also seen as revival SAARC which as a grouping has been defunct since 2016 following a terror attack in Uri, India in which 19 Indian soldiers. The attack was planned by Pakistan based terrorist which led to India boycotting the summit in Islamabad that year. New Delhi was joined by other SAARC countries to boycott the 2016 Islamabad summit and since then India has been focusing on BIMSTEC grouping whose leaders were invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi after he won the second term in 2019.

SAARC video conference on coronavirus to take place on Sunday 

As the world grapples with the coronavirus outbreak, India is taking a leadership position in South Asia. PM Modi has made an appeal to SAARC nations for a united fight against the Wuhan virus. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why this move matters on WION Edit.

WION Edit: Wuhan Virus: India pushes for a united front with SAARC nations

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