Asserting that every issue raised by the Congress on Rafale deal has been clarified by the Supreme Court, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said in Rajya Sabha that there is no controversy in the matter, except in minds of the opposition party leaders.&nbsp;

Unsatisfied by the minister’s reply during the Question Hour, the Congress members including former prime minister Manmohan Singh staged a walkout.

Congress leader Anand Sharma in his supplementary query demanded that the government make public the minutes of the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former French President Fracois Hollande held last year on the Rafale deal in a bid to settle the controversy once for all. To this, Swaraj said, “Anandji, there is no controversy. Controversy is there in your mind. All the controversial issues that you (Congress) raised, the Supreme Court has clarified on each of them. Please don’t use the word controversy again.”

She said, “The whole country knows there is no controversy. The Supreme Court has cleared each issue. If you still think there is a controversy, then no one can reply.” To a query raised by Shiv Sena member Sanjay Raut if there was any discussion on the Rafale deal during the recent visit of French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to India, Swaraj said, “There was no discussion on the matter.”

“On that day, the Supreme Court verdict (on Rafale deal) was pronounced. He (French Minister) was very happy. He expressed joy and felt there was no need to have a discussion,” she said.&nbsp;

On the Indo-French fund for developing a script for co-production of films, the Minister said the French delegation had visited Mumbai and had a discussion with representatives of Bollywood besides meeting the state chief minister.

To another query on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power project, Swaraj said that an agreement was signed on March 22, 2016, to set up a plant. France’s EDF and India’s NPCL are looking into it. “Six EPR units are to be set with each unit having a capacity of 1650 megawatt. Once it is ready, it will be the world’s largest nuclear plant,” she said. The project was reviewed in March last year when the rate of power per unit and setting up of a reference plant were also discussed. “We will proceed after seeing the model plant. We have decided about the dates,” she added.

Asserting that every issue raised by the Congress on Rafale deal has been clarified by the Supreme Court, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said in Rajya Sabha that there is no controversy in the matter, except in minds of the opposition party leaders.

Asserting that every issue raised by the Congress on Rafale deal has been clarified by the Supreme Court, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday said in Rajya Sabha that there is no controversy in the matter, except in minds of the opposition party leaders. Unsatisfied by the minister’s reply during the Question Hour, the Congress members including former prime minister Manmohan Singh staged a walkout. Congress leader Anand Sharma in his supplementary query demanded that the government make public the minutes of the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former French President Fracois Hollande held last year on the Rafale deal in a bid to settle the controversy once for all. To this, Swaraj said, “Anandji, there is no controversy. Controversy is there in your mind. All the controversial issues that you (Congress) raised, the Supreme Court has clarified on each of them. Please don’t use the word controversy again.” She said, “The whole country knows there is no controversy. The Supreme Court has cleared each issue. If you still think there is a controversy, then no one can reply.” To a query raised by Shiv Sena member Sanjay Raut if there was any discussion on the Rafale deal during the recent visit of French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to India, Swaraj said, “There was no discussion on the matter.” “On that day, the Supreme Court verdict (on Rafale deal) was pronounced. He (French Minister) was very happy. He expressed joy and felt there was no need to have a discussion,” she said. On the Indo-French fund for developing a script for co-production of films, the Minister said the French delegation had visited Mumbai and had a discussion with representatives of Bollywood besides meeting the state chief minister. To another query on the Jaitapur Nuclear Power project, Swaraj said that an agreement was signed on March 22, 2016, to set up a plant. France’s EDF and India’s NPCL are looking into it. “Six EPR units are to be set with each unit having a capacity of 1650 megawatt. Once it is ready, it will be the world’s largest nuclear plant,” she said. The project was reviewed in March last year when the rate of power per unit and setting up of a reference plant were also discussed. “We will proceed after seeing the model plant. We have decided about the dates,” she added.

All issues raised by Congress on Rafale deal clarified by SC, says Sushma Swaraj

India has officially confirmed that Pakistani High Commission has "misplaced" passports of 23 Indian pilgrims.&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in a written statement in the parliament while confirming the development said, "The Ministry of External Affairs has received information that a total of twenty-three (23) passports have been misplaced by the High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi."

To prevent misuse of these misplaced passports, all the passports have been declared as ‘lost’ in the passport database. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has instructed all the Passport issuing authorities to ensure that if these applicants apply for reissue of passports "caution may be exercised'' while processing their passport applications.

The incident happened in November of 2018 and was 1st reported in December. Pakistan high commission had issued 3800 visas to Sikh pilgrims in India to participate in the 549th birth anniversary celebration of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Pakistan from 21 to 30 November 2018.

The development comes even as India and Pakistan announced the building of Kartarpur corridor in 2018. Pakistani Draft proposal as seen by WION says Islamabad will be issuing a permit, 500 per day to pilgrims and India has to hand over the list 3 days ahead of the visit.

India has officially confirmed that Pakistani High Commission has "misplaced" passports of 23 Indian pilgrims. India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in a written statement in the parliament while confirming the development said, "The Ministry of External Affairs has received information that a total of twenty-three (23) passports have been misplaced by the High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi.

India has officially confirmed that Pakistani High Commission has "misplaced" passports of 23 Indian pilgrims. India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in a written statement in the parliament while confirming the development said, "The Ministry of External Affairs has received information that a total of twenty-three (23) passports have been misplaced by the High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi." To prevent misuse of these misplaced passports, all the passports have been declared as ‘lost’ in the passport database. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has instructed all the Passport issuing authorities to ensure that if these applicants apply for reissue of passports "caution may be exercised'' while processing their passport applications. The incident happened in November of 2018 and was 1st reported in December. Pakistan high commission had issued 3800 visas to Sikh pilgrims in India to participate in the 549th birth anniversary celebration of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Pakistan from 21 to 30 November 2018. The development comes even as India and Pakistan announced the building of Kartarpur corridor in 2018. Pakistani Draft proposal as seen by WION says Islamabad will be issuing a permit, 500 per day to pilgrims and India has to hand over the list 3 days ahead of the visit.

Pakistan High Commission has misplaced 23 Indian passports: Sushma Swaraj

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/conversion-to-christianity-remains-a-sensitive-issue-in-nepal-and-india-185608">Nepal-India relations</a> saw an upward trend in 2018 as high-level bilateral visits gradually helped remove the mistrust, with<a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pm-modi-has-changed-tack-cooperated-closely-with-nepal-178364"> Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> saying New Delhi was ready to be the 'Sherpa' in the land-locked Himalayan nation's quest to scale the mountain of success.

India was able to recover its lost ground in Nepal in recent months after a period of unease in bilateral ties following the violent agitation in 2015 by Madhesis, mostly of Indian-origin, who blocked Indo-Nepal border demanding more representation in Parliament and redrawing of provincial boundaries.

The economic blockade severely affected Nepal, its economy and its ties with India.

India's bilateral engagement with Nepal in 2018 began with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in February meeting Left alliance leader K P Sharma Oli days before his swearing in as prime minister.

After Nepal witnessed political instability for several years, the Left alliance came to power in the historic polls in December 2017.

Known for his pro-China stance, Oli became Nepal's Prime Minister for the second time in February. His first term as the premier from 2015 to 2016 saw straining of ties with New Delhi over the 2015 blockade.

Oli, who publicly criticised New Delhi for allegedly interfering in Nepal's internal matters and accused it of toppling his government, however, changed his tone after his sweeping poll victory and said he wants to "update" relations with India "in keeping with the times".

Oli said he favours a review of all special provisions of the Indo-Nepal relations. He also vowed to deepen Nepal's ties with China to explore more options and get more leverage in his dealings with India.

The prime ministers of Nepal and India agreed to review, adjust and update the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 and other bilateral agreements.

China, which has been investing heavily in Nepal blunting India's influence in the country, was quick to congratulate the new Nepalese government and said that India, China and Nepal should step up "sound interaction for win-win outcomes".

The highest level of visit between India and Nepal came in April when Prime Minister Oli, leading a 53-member jumbo delegation, visited India for a three-day visit which, he said, helped in clearing misunderstanding and mistrust and strengthening mutual trust between the two neighbours.

During talks between Oli and Modi, the two countries agreed to conduct feasibility studies <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-help-nepal-build-rail-link-to-kathmandu-162857">regarding construction of Raxaul-Kathmandu railway line </a>and operating Nepalese steamers to transport goods and people from Nepal to other countries.

In May, Prime Minister Modi travelled to Nepal for a two-day state visit, his third visit to the country in four years.

Modi visited the famed 20th century Janaki temple in Janakpur, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sita. He and his Nepalese counterpart jointly inaugurated a direct bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya - the two sacred cities for Hindus - to promote religious tourism in Nepal and India.

Describing his trip to Nepal as a reflection of his government's commitment to "neighbourhood first" policy, Modi said Nepal has entered a new era and India would continue to support it.

He said India supports a "united, prosperous and strong" Nepal as he called for transforming the land-locked Himalayan nation into land- and water-linked country.

Oli said Nepal is sensitive to India's interests and would not allow its territory to be used against it.

Modi said India was ready to be the 'Sherpa' — a member of the Himalayan community renowned for mountaineering skills — to help Nepal scale the mountain of success, hailing the Himalayan nation's successful journey from bullets to ballots.

Oli, briefing Nepal's Parliament on Modi's state visit, said the visit has elevated bilateral ties to new heights.

In August, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-attends-inaugural-session-of-4th-bimstec-summit-in-kathmandu-162519">Modi visited Nepal for BIMSTEC conference</a> and held talks with Oli during which India and Nepal exchanged a memorandum of understanding to build a strategic railway line connecting Bihar's Raxual city to Kathmandu.

This was the third meeting between Modi and Oli in 2018.

China made inroads into Nepal as Kathmandu started accessing the internet through a Chinese optical fibre link laid across the Himalayan mountains, ending its sole dependency on India for connecting to the cyberspace.

Nepal and China signed the protocol of Transit and Transport Agreement in September according to which the Communist giant agreed to allow Nepal to use four of its seaports and three land ports for third-country trade, reducing its dependence on India to conduct international commerce.

The Madhesi agitation in 2015 forced Nepal to explore trade links with China and reduce its long-term dependence on India.

In September, Nepal decided not to participate in the first-ever joint military exercise of BIMSTEC nations in Pune, amid reports that Nepal's political parties had expressed concern over the drill.

In December, Nepal banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations, a move that could affect Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan nation where Indian currency is widely used.

Notwithstanding differences in India-Nepal ties and the growing Chinese influence in the Himalayan nation, the frequent high-level visits by the leaders of the two countries have helped promote goodwill, trust, understanding and cooperation and have injected fresh momentum to further consolidate age-old and multi-faceted relations.

Nepal-India relations saw an upward trend in 2018 as high-level bilateral visits gradually helped remove the mistrust, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying New Delhi was ready to be the 'Sherpa' in the land-locked Himalayan nation's quest to scale the mountain of success.

Nepal-India relations saw an upward trend in 2018 as high-level bilateral visits gradually helped remove the mistrust, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying New Delhi was ready to be the 'Sherpa' in the land-locked Himalayan nation's quest to scale the mountain of success. India was able to recover its lost ground in Nepal in recent months after a period of unease in bilateral ties following the violent agitation in 2015 by Madhesis, mostly of Indian-origin, who blocked Indo-Nepal border demanding more representation in Parliament and redrawing of provincial boundaries. The economic blockade severely affected Nepal, its economy and its ties with India. India's bilateral engagement with Nepal in 2018 began with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in February meeting Left alliance leader K P Sharma Oli days before his swearing in as prime minister. After Nepal witnessed political instability for several years, the Left alliance came to power in the historic polls in December 2017. Known for his pro-China stance, Oli became Nepal's Prime Minister for the second time in February. His first term as the premier from 2015 to 2016 saw straining of ties with New Delhi over the 2015 blockade. Oli, who publicly criticised New Delhi for allegedly interfering in Nepal's internal matters and accused it of toppling his government, however, changed his tone after his sweeping poll victory and said he wants to "update" relations with India "in keeping with the times". Oli said he favours a review of all special provisions of the Indo-Nepal relations. He also vowed to deepen Nepal's ties with China to explore more options and get more leverage in his dealings with India. The prime ministers of Nepal and India agreed to review, adjust and update the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 and other bilateral agreements. China, which has been investing heavily in Nepal blunting India's influence in the country, was quick to congratulate the new Nepalese government and said that India, China and Nepal should step up "sound interaction for win-win outcomes". The highest level of visit between India and Nepal came in April when Prime Minister Oli, leading a 53-member jumbo delegation, visited India for a three-day visit which, he said, helped in clearing misunderstanding and mistrust and strengthening mutual trust between the two neighbours. During talks between Oli and Modi, the two countries agreed to conduct feasibility studies regarding construction of Raxaul-Kathmandu railway line and operating Nepalese steamers to transport goods and people from Nepal to other countries. In May, Prime Minister Modi travelled to Nepal for a two-day state visit, his third visit to the country in four years. Modi visited the famed 20th century Janaki temple in Janakpur, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sita. He and his Nepalese counterpart jointly inaugurated a direct bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya - the two sacred cities for Hindus - to promote religious tourism in Nepal and India. Describing his trip to Nepal as a reflection of his government's commitment to "neighbourhood first" policy, Modi said Nepal has entered a new era and India would continue to support it. He said India supports a "united, prosperous and strong" Nepal as he called for transforming the land-locked Himalayan nation into land- and water-linked country. Oli said Nepal is sensitive to India's interests and would not allow its territory to be used against it. Modi said India was ready to be the 'Sherpa' — a member of the Himalayan community renowned for mountaineering skills — to help Nepal scale the mountain of success, hailing the Himalayan nation's successful journey from bullets to ballots. Oli, briefing Nepal's Parliament on Modi's state visit, said the visit has elevated bilateral ties to new heights. In August, Modi visited Nepal for BIMSTEC conference and held talks with Oli during which India and Nepal exchanged a memorandum of understanding to build a strategic railway line connecting Bihar's Raxual city to Kathmandu. This was the third meeting between Modi and Oli in 2018. China made inroads into Nepal as Kathmandu started accessing the internet through a Chinese optical fibre link laid across the Himalayan mountains, ending its sole dependency on India for connecting to the cyberspace. Nepal and China signed the protocol of Transit and Transport Agreement in September according to which the Communist giant agreed to allow Nepal to use four of its seaports and three land ports for third-country trade, reducing its dependence on India to conduct international commerce. The Madhesi agitation in 2015 forced Nepal to explore trade links with China and reduce its long-term dependence on India. In September, Nepal decided not to participate in the first-ever joint military exercise of BIMSTEC nations in Pune, amid reports that Nepal's political parties had expressed concern over the drill. In December, Nepal banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations, a move that could affect Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan nation where Indian currency is widely used. Notwithstanding differences in India-Nepal ties and the growing Chinese influence in the Himalayan nation, the frequent high-level visits by the leaders of the two countries have helped promote goodwill, trust, understanding and cooperation and have injected fresh momentum to further consolidate age-old and multi-faceted relations.

Nepal, India ties strengthened with high-level bilateral visits in 2018

India has clarified that the visit of former prime minister Kjell Magne Bondevik of Norway was a private one and "there is no scope for any third party role or mediation. Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah had questioned the motive of his visit through a tweet, "What are the Norwegians up to in Kashmir?". Seeking&nbsp;to know about the reason of former PM's visit, he had further said in his tweet, "Do we have to rely on rumours &amp; conjecture?"

In a written reply to Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "Kjell Magne Bondevik was on a private visit to India at invitation of the Art of Living International Centre (Ved Vigyan Maha Vidya Peeth), Bengaluru, and government of India was not involved in organizing the visit and meetings."

Dismissing any reports of mediation, Swaraj said there is no scope for third party role and that "there is no change in government’s consistent and principled position that under the Simla Agreement (1972) and as reiterated in the Lahore Declaration (1999), both India and Pakistan are committed to address all outstanding issues bilaterally."

Bondevik visited Jammu &amp; Kashmir on November 23 this year and met representatives of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu &amp; Kashmir Youth Development Forum and All Party Hurriyat Conference.

India has clarified that the visit of former prime minister Kjell Magne Bondevik of Norway was a private one and "there is no scope for any third party role or mediation.

India has clarified that the visit of former prime minister Kjell Magne Bondevik of Norway was a private one and "there is no scope for any third party role or mediation. Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah had questioned the motive of his visit through a tweet, "What are the Norwegians up to in Kashmir?". Seeking to know about the reason of former PM's visit, he had further said in his tweet, "Do we have to rely on rumours & conjecture?" In a written reply to Rajya Sabha, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "Kjell Magne Bondevik was on a private visit to India at invitation of the Art of Living International Centre (Ved Vigyan Maha Vidya Peeth), Bengaluru, and government of India was not involved in organizing the visit and meetings." Dismissing any reports of mediation, Swaraj said there is no scope for third party role and that "there is no change in government’s consistent and principled position that under the Simla Agreement (1972) and as reiterated in the Lahore Declaration (1999), both India and Pakistan are committed to address all outstanding issues bilaterally." Bondevik visited Jammu & Kashmir on November 23 this year and met representatives of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu & Kashmir Youth Development Forum and All Party Hurriyat Conference.

Former Norway PM Bondevik's visit private, no scope for any third party role or mediation, clarifies India

An Indian woman was Sunday rescued by authorities in Bahrain after a Bahraini “enslaver” allegedly threatened to keep her for at least 25 days.

The Indian Embassy in Bahrain announced her rescue on Twitter hours after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a tweet, directed the Indian Ambassador in the Gulf nation to intervene in the case. The Indian mission said the woman has been rescued by Bahraini authorities. 
 
On Saturday, humanitarian organisation ‘Justice Upheld’ had tweeted that an Indian woman has been enslaved by her employer in Bahrain and she feared for her life. The organisation, quoting the “enslaver”, Sunday said he was going to keep her for at least 25 days as he had paid ‘lots of money for her’. “He is extremely annoyed that the matter has been reported to the Indian authorities. 
 
We are concerned about her safety,” the organisation said. Soon after the Indian Embassy in Bahrain, headed by Ambassador Alok Kumar, tweeted that the Mission has initiated action to rescue her. However, Swaraj asked Kumar for immediate intervention, saying the situation appeared to be serious. “Alok – I know you are working for her rescue. The situation appears to be serious 
 
This requires immediate intervention on your part. Pls keep me informed,” Swaraj tweeted.

Details of the case, as well as about the woman, are not immediately available. In a separate case, Swaraj asked the Indian Embassy in Washington to assist an Indian family which sought her help saying their passports and other belongings were stolen from their hotel room in Chicago. 
 
“Dear @SushmaSwaraj Ji, an unusual incident of theft has left us devastated here in Chicago while returning back to India. All our belongings, including passports, were stolen from our hotel room booked at Edward Hotel and there’s no one willing to help. Please intervene,” Jyoti, a member of the family, tweeted.

An Indian woman was Sunday rescued by authorities in Bahrain after a Bahraini “enslaver” allegedly threatened to keep her for at least 25 days. The Indian Embassy in Bahrain announced her rescue on Twitter hours after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a tweet, directed the Indian Ambassador in the Gulf nation to intervene in the case.

An Indian woman was Sunday rescued by authorities in Bahrain after a Bahraini “enslaver” allegedly threatened to keep her for at least 25 days. The Indian Embassy in Bahrain announced her rescue on Twitter hours after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a tweet, directed the Indian Ambassador in the Gulf nation to intervene in the case. The Indian mission said the woman has been rescued by Bahraini authorities. On Saturday, humanitarian organisation ‘Justice Upheld’ had tweeted that an Indian woman has been enslaved by her employer in Bahrain and she feared for her life. The organisation, quoting the “enslaver”, Sunday said he was going to keep her for at least 25 days as he had paid ‘lots of money for her’. “He is extremely annoyed that the matter has been reported to the Indian authorities. We are concerned about her safety,” the organisation said. Soon after the Indian Embassy in Bahrain, headed by Ambassador Alok Kumar, tweeted that the Mission has initiated action to rescue her. However, Swaraj asked Kumar for immediate intervention, saying the situation appeared to be serious. “Alok – I know you are working for her rescue. The situation appears to be serious This requires immediate intervention on your part. Pls keep me informed,” Swaraj tweeted. Details of the case, as well as about the woman, are not immediately available. In a separate case, Swaraj asked the Indian Embassy in Washington to assist an Indian family which sought her help saying their passports and other belongings were stolen from their hotel room in Chicago. “Dear @SushmaSwaraj Ji, an unusual incident of theft has left us devastated here in Chicago while returning back to India. All our belongings, including passports, were stolen from our hotel room booked at Edward Hotel and there’s no one willing to help. Please intervene,” Jyoti, a member of the family, tweeted.

Indian woman in captivity of ‘enslaver’ in Bahrain rescued: Indian mission

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj Monday expressed grief over the loss of life in a volcano-triggered<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-indonesia-regularly-hit-by-quakes-and-tsunamis-185962"> tsunami in Indonesia</a> and said India stands by Indonesians in this hour of grief.&nbsp;

On Sunday, a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-tsunami-death-toll-climbs-to-222-over-800-injured-185999">powerful tsunami hit Indonesia</a>, known for its thousands of islands stretching from the Andaman Sea to the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, killing at least 281 people and injuring thousands.

"My deepest condolences to the families of victims who lost their lives in the Tsunami that struck the coast of Sunda Straits in Indonesia. Our prayers are with them as we stand by our Indonesian brothers in this hour of grief @Menlu_RI," Swaraj tweeted tagging the foreign ministry of Indonesia Menteri Luar Negeri.

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My deepest condolences to the families of victims who lost their lives in the Tsunami that struck the coast of Sunda Straits in Indonesia. Our prayers are with them as we stand by our Indonesian brothers in this hour of grief <a href="https://twitter.com/Menlu_RI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Menlu_RI</a>
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1077042094877954048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In October, when a deadly tsunami hit Indonesia India had pressed its Air Force and Navy for rescue and humanitarian work.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj Monday expressed grief over the loss of life in a volcano-triggered tsunami in Indonesia and said India stands by Indonesians in this hour of grief.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj Monday expressed grief over the loss of life in a volcano-triggered tsunami in Indonesia and said India stands by Indonesians in this hour of grief. On Sunday, a powerful tsunami hit Indonesia, known for its thousands of islands stretching from the Andaman Sea to the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, killing at least 281 people and injuring thousands. "My deepest condolences to the families of victims who lost their lives in the Tsunami that struck the coast of Sunda Straits in Indonesia. Our prayers are with them as we stand by our Indonesian brothers in this hour of grief @Menlu_RI," Swaraj tweeted tagging the foreign ministry of Indonesia Menteri Luar Negeri. My deepest condolences to the families of victims who lost their lives in the Tsunami that struck the coast of Sunda Straits in Indonesia. Our prayers are with them as we stand by our Indonesian brothers in this hour of grief @Menlu_RI — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) December 24, 2018 × In October, when a deadly tsunami hit Indonesia India had pressed its Air Force and Navy for rescue and humanitarian work.

India stands by tsunami-hit Indonesia: Sushma Swaraj

Eyeing a new chapter in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-was-a-milestone-pm-modi-president-xi-have-personal-connect-sushma-swaraj-185698">Sino-India ties</a>, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

In her media statement, Swaraj said the armies of the two countries are working to strengthen communication and striving to implement confidence-building measures that will help in maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas, which she said, is an important prerequisite for development of ties.

Referring to trade ties, Swaraj said there was a need to find a solution to India's expanding trade deficit with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sino-india-ties-actively-moving-forward-president-xi-185704">China</a> and hoped that China will provide support for market access to Indian goods and services.

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MEA: EAM Sushma Swaraj &amp; Chinese State Councilor &amp; FM Wang Yi jointly inaugurated a Photo Exhibition at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra portraying the various facets of enhanced exchanges between India &amp; China. <a href="https://t.co/4mOPPMl2QA">pic.twitter.com/4mOPPMl2QA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076143544375508992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj said the special relationship between the two countries is not only important for the region but also for the world. "At a time of global uncertainty, the relationship between the two countries are a factor of stability," she said.

In their talks under the 'High Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges', the two foreign ministers deliberated for around two hours on ways to boost people-to-people contact and cultural exchanges between the two neighbours.

The setting up of the new mechanism was decided upon during the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

"Our leaders had realised that unless we have better people-to-people cooperation, we cannot have close cooperation between the two countries," said Swaraj.

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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. <a href="https://t.co/ilVvycgB0G">pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076050084666589185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I am very happy over outcome of our talks... I am confident that the new mechanism will help both the countries in building greater synergies in bilateral ties," she said in her media statement in the presence of Wang.&nbsp;

Since the resolution of the Doklam face-off, the two countries have taken a series of measures to enhance overall ties.

Wang, who arrived here early Friday morning, said he had a "very successful" meeting with Swaraj.

"India-China relations have reached a new historical stage," he said at the inaugural session of 3rd India-China High Level Media Forum.

Swaraj said she and Wang held a series of bilateral meetings in the last few years and talks on people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges were for not more than 10 minutes in each of the meetings.&nbsp;

"But today, the meeting was very unique and very different. And the reason for it was that we focused on two subjects during the two-hour deliberations -- people-to-people relations and cultural exchanges," she said.

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EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic &amp; youth exchanges <a href="https://t.co/GzWnMgRPud">pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076052889565609986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj said India and China have agreed on '10 pillars' of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

These pillars are cultural exchange, cooperation in films and television, museum administration and sports, exchanges between youths, cooperation on tourism, exchanges between states and cities, cooperation in traditional medicine, yoga and education.

Swaraj said both sides made good progress in ties in 2018 and an ambitious agenda is being prepared for next year.

"We are confident that the visit of Xi Jinping to India next year for the second informal summit will add another new facet to our continuously expanding ties," Swaraj said.&nbsp;

Wang described the new mechanism for cultural and people-to-people exchanges as a "major initiative" in the history of India-China ties.&nbsp;

Eyeing a new chapter in Sino-India ties, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Eyeing a new chapter in Sino-India ties, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday held extensive talks under a new set up framework and agreed on "ten pillars" of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. In her media statement, Swaraj said the armies of the two countries are working to strengthen communication and striving to implement confidence-building measures that will help in maintaining peace and tranquillity in border areas, which she said, is an important prerequisite for development of ties. Referring to trade ties, Swaraj said there was a need to find a solution to India's expanding trade deficit with China and hoped that China will provide support for market access to Indian goods and services. MEA: EAM Sushma Swaraj & Chinese State Councilor & FM Wang Yi jointly inaugurated a Photo Exhibition at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra portraying the various facets of enhanced exchanges between India & China. pic.twitter.com/4mOPPMl2QA — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × Swaraj said the special relationship between the two countries is not only important for the region but also for the world. "At a time of global uncertainty, the relationship between the two countries are a factor of stability," she said. In their talks under the 'High Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges', the two foreign ministers deliberated for around two hours on ways to boost people-to-people contact and cultural exchanges between the two neighbours. The setting up of the new mechanism was decided upon during the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping. "Our leaders had realised that unless we have better people-to-people cooperation, we cannot have close cooperation between the two countries," said Swaraj. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × "I am very happy over outcome of our talks... I am confident that the new mechanism will help both the countries in building greater synergies in bilateral ties," she said in her media statement in the presence of Wang. Since the resolution of the Doklam face-off, the two countries have taken a series of measures to enhance overall ties. Wang, who arrived here early Friday morning, said he had a "very successful" meeting with Swaraj. "India-China relations have reached a new historical stage," he said at the inaugural session of 3rd India-China High Level Media Forum. Swaraj said she and Wang held a series of bilateral meetings in the last few years and talks on people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges were for not more than 10 minutes in each of the meetings. "But today, the meeting was very unique and very different. And the reason for it was that we focused on two subjects during the two-hour deliberations -- people-to-people relations and cultural exchanges," she said. EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic & youth exchanges pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × Swaraj said India and China have agreed on '10 pillars' of cooperation to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. These pillars are cultural exchange, cooperation in films and television, museum administration and sports, exchanges between youths, cooperation on tourism, exchanges between states and cities, cooperation in traditional medicine, yoga and education. Swaraj said both sides made good progress in ties in 2018 and an ambitious agenda is being prepared for next year. "We are confident that the visit of Xi Jinping to India next year for the second informal summit will add another new facet to our continuously expanding ties," Swaraj said. Wang described the new mechanism for cultural and people-to-people exchanges as a "major initiative" in the history of India-China ties.

India-China relations have reached new historical stage: Chinese foreign minister

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges'&nbsp;took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties. The meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Calling Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping a "milestone in bilateral relations", Swaraj said, "PM Modi and President Xi have established a personal connection and laid our strategic guidance."

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EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic &amp; youth exchanges <a href="https://t.co/GzWnMgRPud">pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud</a>
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She added, "the armies of both the countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for smooth development of bilateral relations."

The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the informal summit between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Wuhan in April 2018.&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi said, "we agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations."

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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. <a href="https://t.co/ilVvycgB0G">pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076050084666589185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also called on to increase people-to-people exchanges between India and China which he said: "will serve as progress for the entire mankind."

Both the sides agreed on 10 priority areas which include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic and youth exchanges."

The High-Level Mechanism will bring all the existing bilateral, cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella.

This was the last high-level meeting between India and China this year. This year, PM Modi met Chinese President Jinping four times -- from Wuhan informal summit in April to the meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit, BRICS Summit and the G20 summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India in 2019 for the second informal summit between India and China.

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges' took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties.

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges' took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties. The meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Calling Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping a "milestone in bilateral relations", Swaraj said, "PM Modi and President Xi have established a personal connection and laid our strategic guidance." EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic & youth exchanges pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × She added, "the armies of both the countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for smooth development of bilateral relations." The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the informal summit between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Wuhan in April 2018. Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi said, "we agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations." Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × He also called on to increase people-to-people exchanges between India and China which he said: "will serve as progress for the entire mankind." Both the sides agreed on 10 priority areas which include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic and youth exchanges." The High-Level Mechanism will bring all the existing bilateral, cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella. This was the last high-level meeting between India and China this year. This year, PM Modi met Chinese President Jinping four times -- from Wuhan informal summit in April to the meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit, BRICS Summit and the G20 summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India in 2019 for the second informal summit between India and China.

Wuhan was a milestone, PM Modi and President Xi have personal connect: Sushma Swaraj

Jinnah House to be converted into a venue along the lines of Hyderabad House, says Sushma Swaraj

Hamid Ansari expected to meet minister Sushma Swaraj at 11 AM

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-jail-sets-free-hamid-ansari-after-6-years-185086">Hamid Nehal Ansari</a>, who was, who was released on Tuesday from Mardan Central Jail of Pakistan, met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday in New Delhi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hamid-nihal-ansaris-emotional-homecoming-kisses-indian-soil-hugs-and-consoles-teary-eyed-mother-185173">Ansari reached Delhi</a> early morning the same day. He told reports upon landing that he is very happy to be back home.

Having been detained and imprisoned in Pakistan for a total of six years over charges of espionage, 33-year-old Mumbai-based Hamid Ansari returned to India on Tuesday.

A former teacher at the Mumbai Management College, Ansari went to Pakistan in 2012 to meet a woman whom he had befriended through social media.&nbsp;

Ansari went missing after he was apprehended by the Pakistan intelligence agencies and local police from Kohat district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan in November 2012.

He was awarded a three-year imprisonment sentence by a military court in December 2015 after being slapped with charges of espionage and involvement in anti-state activities.

The court gave the verdict after Pakistan`s Ministry of Interior appraised that Ansari will be repatriated to India after completion of his prison term on December 15.

Pakistani security agencies had claimed that Hamid had used fake identity card in the name of "Hamza" and had entered Pakistan through Afghanistan without travel documents.

(With inputs from ANI)

Hamid Nehal Ansari, who was, who was released on Tuesday from Mardan Central Jail of Pakistan, met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday in New Delhi.

Hamid Nehal Ansari, who was, who was released on Tuesday from Mardan Central Jail of Pakistan, met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday in New Delhi. Ansari reached Delhi early morning the same day. He told reports upon landing that he is very happy to be back home. Having been detained and imprisoned in Pakistan for a total of six years over charges of espionage, 33-year-old Mumbai-based Hamid Ansari returned to India on Tuesday. A former teacher at the Mumbai Management College, Ansari went to Pakistan in 2012 to meet a woman whom he had befriended through social media. Ansari went missing after he was apprehended by the Pakistan intelligence agencies and local police from Kohat district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan in November 2012. He was awarded a three-year imprisonment sentence by a military court in December 2015 after being slapped with charges of espionage and involvement in anti-state activities. The court gave the verdict after Pakistan`s Ministry of Interior appraised that Ansari will be repatriated to India after completion of his prison term on December 15. Pakistani security agencies had claimed that Hamid had used fake identity card in the name of "Hamza" and had entered Pakistan through Afghanistan without travel documents. (With inputs from ANI)

Video: Day after release from Pak prison, Hamid Ansari meets Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi

Hamid Ansari meets EAM Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi

India will raise the issue of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-soon-get-kim-davy-denmark-pm--131258">the extradition of Kim Davy</a>, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen.&nbsp;

Davy aka Niels Holck is accused of air dropping arms and ammunition, including hundreds of AK-47 rifles and anti-tank grenades, in Purulia 23 years ago in December 1995.&nbsp;

Anders will be on a two-day visit to India on December 17 and 18 and will be meeting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu.

Top government sources told WION, "All issues will be discussed including consular access."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Danish PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen during the India-Nordic summit in April this year with both deciding to enhance ties.&nbsp;

India had decided to scale down ties with Denmark in 2012 after a lower court in that country refused Davy's extradition.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION in Stockholm back in April, Løkke Rasmussen had said about Davy, "These issues... we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political track, we will restart joint commission."

India's ministry of external affairs had sent Denmark's ministry of justice, through its ministry of foreign affairs, a formal request for Davy's extradition in 2016.

Back in April, Rasmussen also called for stronger ties between Copenhagen and New Delhi. "We have strong historical ties and we have bilateral relation for 400 years. I have agreed with your PM its time to enhance it. We are restarting Indo-Danish Joint Commission," he told WION.&nbsp;

The inaugural meeting of the India-Denmark Joint Commission took place in 2010.

India will raise the issue of the extradition of Kim Davy, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen.

India will raise the issue of the extradition of Kim Davy, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen. Davy aka Niels Holck is accused of air dropping arms and ammunition, including hundreds of AK-47 rifles and anti-tank grenades, in Purulia 23 years ago in December 1995. Anders will be on a two-day visit to India on December 17 and 18 and will be meeting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu. Top government sources told WION, "All issues will be discussed including consular access." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Danish PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen during the India-Nordic summit in April this year with both deciding to enhance ties. India had decided to scale down ties with Denmark in 2012 after a lower court in that country refused Davy's extradition. Speaking to WION in Stockholm back in April, Løkke Rasmussen had said about Davy, "These issues... we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political track, we will restart joint commission." India's ministry of external affairs had sent Denmark's ministry of justice, through its ministry of foreign affairs, a formal request for Davy's extradition in 2016. Back in April, Rasmussen also called for stronger ties between Copenhagen and New Delhi. "We have strong historical ties and we have bilateral relation for 400 years. I have agreed with your PM its time to enhance it. We are restarting Indo-Danish Joint Commission," he told WION. The inaugural meeting of the India-Denmark Joint Commission took place in 2010.

India to raise extradition of Kim Davy with visiting Danish FM

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her France counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian discussed a host of issues from counter-terror, cooperation in Africa to increasing people to people ties.&nbsp;

The French Foreign minister is on a two-day visit to India.&nbsp;

The two ministers also issued a joint press statement in which French Foreign minister said his meeting with India's external affairs minister was marked by a "great convergence of views and shared ambition".&nbsp;

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20 years of a dynamic and multi-faceted strategic partnership! 
 
EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> welcomed Foreign Minister of France <a href="https://twitter.com/JY_LeDrian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JY_LeDrian</a> ahead of the delegation-level talks. This is their second bilateral meeting in six months continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges! <a href="https://t.co/pdQR8dlm0Y">pic.twitter.com/pdQR8dlm0Y</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1073817180423274496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"France and India are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their strategic partnership this year is not by chance. It's because we attach the same importance to multilateralism, respect for the rule of law, the same ambition to usher in a just and sustainable world," he said.&nbsp;

Exuding confidence in India France ties, Le Drian said, "India knows that in France it has a partner that has never failed it and on which it can count on in the future."

Sushma Swaraj said both India and France will take forward cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Defence ties between both countries are deep and multifaceted.

Both India and France discussed counter terror with EAM Sushma saying "India and France have cooperation on counter-terror especially at FATF". French FM talked about the "shared commitment to fighting terrorism, as we mark ten years since the deadly Mumbai attacks."

Both countries are also planning to launch joint projects in Africa. On people to people front, France plans to host 10,000 Indian students annually by 2020.

This is the second meeting between the External Affairs Minister and French foreign minister this year. They earlier met this year during EAM's visit to Paris. 
&nbsp; 
The French Foreign Minister also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Earlier Le Drian visited Mumbai where he met Bollywood producers and conferred the French honour of Knight of the National Order of Merit on producer Ashok Amritraj.

French company Atos and India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) signed MoU for developing supercomputers in India on the occasion.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her France counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian discussed a host of issues from counter-terror, cooperation in Africa to increasing people to people ties.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her France counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian discussed a host of issues from counter-terror, cooperation in Africa to increasing people to people ties. The French Foreign minister is on a two-day visit to India. The two ministers also issued a joint press statement in which French Foreign minister said his meeting with India's external affairs minister was marked by a "great convergence of views and shared ambition". 20 years of a dynamic and multi-faceted strategic partnership! EAM @SushmaSwaraj welcomed Foreign Minister of France @JY_LeDrian ahead of the delegation-level talks. This is their second bilateral meeting in six months continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges! pic.twitter.com/pdQR8dlm0Y — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) December 15, 2018 × "France and India are celebrating the 20th anniversary of their strategic partnership this year is not by chance. It's because we attach the same importance to multilateralism, respect for the rule of law, the same ambition to usher in a just and sustainable world," he said. Exuding confidence in India France ties, Le Drian said, "India knows that in France it has a partner that has never failed it and on which it can count on in the future." Sushma Swaraj said both India and France will take forward cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Defence ties between both countries are deep and multifaceted. Both India and France discussed counter terror with EAM Sushma saying "India and France have cooperation on counter-terror especially at FATF". French FM talked about the "shared commitment to fighting terrorism, as we mark ten years since the deadly Mumbai attacks." Both countries are also planning to launch joint projects in Africa. On people to people front, France plans to host 10,000 Indian students annually by 2020. This is the second meeting between the External Affairs Minister and French foreign minister this year. They earlier met this year during EAM's visit to Paris. The French Foreign Minister also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Earlier Le Drian visited Mumbai where he met Bollywood producers and conferred the French honour of Knight of the National Order of Merit on producer Ashok Amritraj. French company Atos and India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) signed MoU for developing supercomputers in India on the occasion.

In France, India has a partner that has never failed it: French Foreign Minister

French FM to meet Indian counterpart

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Remember, this was one of the outcomes agreed upon during the Wuhan informal summit which took place in China earlier this year.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, "the High-Level Mechanism reflects the desire on both the sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports and academic and youth exchanges."

The release added that the High-Level Mechanism "will bring all the existing bilateral cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella and, thus, add more substance and purpose to the efforts on both sides to promote greater cultural and people-to-people exchanges between them."

Several events will also be held on the sidelines of the meeting of the High-Level Mechanism, including an India-China think tanks forum and a High-Level media forum.

This year saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting for a record four times. They first met at the Informal Wuhan Summit in China, followed by a meeting during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa. The two leaders finally met in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The development comes in the backdrop of the worst stand-off between Indian and Chinese forces at the Doklam Plateau in Bhutan.

During the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-summit-in-wuhan-removed-several-misconceptions-between-india-and-china-indian-envoy-177673">informal meet in China's Wuhan</a>, India and China also agreed on taking up joint projects in Afghanistan. The first one was the joint training of Afghan Diplomats in Delhi and Bejing which took place in the month of April.&nbsp;

India and China, earlier this month, resumed the joint military exercise "Hand In Hand" in which Indian and Chinese forces were seen sharing lighter moments and doing the Bhangra together.&nbsp;

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The first meeting of the newly constituted India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges will take place on December 21. The meeting will be co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Remember, this was one of the outcomes agreed upon during the Wuhan informal summit which took place in China earlier this year. According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, "the High-Level Mechanism reflects the desire on both the sides to build greater synergies in the people-to-people ties between the two countries through enhanced exchanges in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports and academic and youth exchanges." The release added that the High-Level Mechanism "will bring all the existing bilateral cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella and, thus, add more substance and purpose to the efforts on both sides to promote greater cultural and people-to-people exchanges between them." Several events will also be held on the sidelines of the meeting of the High-Level Mechanism, including an India-China think tanks forum and a High-Level media forum. This year saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting for a record four times. They first met at the Informal Wuhan Summit in China, followed by a meeting during the Shanghai Cooperation Summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa. The two leaders finally met in Argentina on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The development comes in the backdrop of the worst stand-off between Indian and Chinese forces at the Doklam Plateau in Bhutan. During the informal meet in China's Wuhan, India and China also agreed on taking up joint projects in Afghanistan. The first one was the joint training of Afghan Diplomats in Delhi and Bejing which took place in the month of April. India and China, earlier this month, resumed the joint military exercise "Hand In Hand" in which Indian and Chinese forces were seen sharing lighter moments and doing the Bhangra together.

Indian, Chinese foreign ministers to meet in Delhi on December 21

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday defended his controversial "googly" comments, which drew sharp criticism from India, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading.

On Thursday, Qureshi had said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor.

A googly is a leg-spinner's prize weapon, which is almost undetectable.

Qureshi noted that it was the same Indian government that had said it will not engage with Pakistan sent two ministers to the groundbreaking ceremony.

Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border in Kartarpur in Punjab province.&nbsp;

Union ministers from India, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, attended the event in Pakistan Punjab province's Narowal area.&nbsp;

Qureshi's remarks drew strong criticism from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who came down heavily on her Pakistani counterpart saying his comments "exposed" him and that Pakistan has "no respect for Sikh sentiments".

Qureshi took to Twitter on Sunday to respond to the criticisms.&nbsp;

"Dragging my comment towards 'Sikh sentiments' is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent &amp; mislead. What I said was strictly with ref to bilateral interaction with the Indian Govt," he tweeted.

"We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it," he said.

Qureshi also said the Kartarpur Corridor was opened to fulfil the desires of the Sikh community.

"In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur Corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith," he tweeted.

Earlier in a series of tweets on Saturday, Swaraj said,"Mr. Foreign Minister of Pakistan - Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'."&nbsp;

"Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," she said.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday defended his controversial "googly" comments, which drew sharp criticism from India, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday defended his controversial "googly" comments, which drew sharp criticism from India, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading. On Thursday, Qureshi had said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor. A googly is a leg-spinner's prize weapon, which is almost undetectable. Qureshi noted that it was the same Indian government that had said it will not engage with Pakistan sent two ministers to the groundbreaking ceremony. Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border in Kartarpur in Punjab province. Union ministers from India, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, attended the event in Pakistan Punjab province's Narowal area. Qureshi's remarks drew strong criticism from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who came down heavily on her Pakistani counterpart saying his comments "exposed" him and that Pakistan has "no respect for Sikh sentiments". Qureshi took to Twitter on Sunday to respond to the criticisms. "Dragging my comment towards 'Sikh sentiments' is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent & mislead. What I said was strictly with ref to bilateral interaction with the Indian Govt," he tweeted. "We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it," he said. Qureshi also said the Kartarpur Corridor was opened to fulfil the desires of the Sikh community. "In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur Corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith," he tweeted. Earlier in a series of tweets on Saturday, Swaraj said,"Mr. Foreign Minister of Pakistan - Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'." "Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," she said.

Qureshi defends 'googly' comments, says linking it to Sikh sentiments misleading

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday reacted to Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-googly-ensured-presence-of-indian-ministers-at-kartarpur-corridor-event-pakistan-foreign-minister-180412">Qureshi's "googly" remark</a>, stating that the two Indian ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib "to offer prayers."

Swaraj added that the "googly" remark has exposed Pakistan, showing that they have no respect for Sikh sentiments. &nbsp;

"Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'," she said.&nbsp;

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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj: Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KartarpuraCorridor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KartarpuraCorridor</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068912294657019904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," Swaraj stated.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Thursday said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor.

Qureshi's remarks came a day after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj categorically ruled out the possibility of resumption of bilateral talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terror activities against India, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Pakistan earlier invited Swaraj for Wednesday's ceremony. But Swaraj said she was unable to travel to Kartarpur Sahib due to prior commitments. India was represented at the events by Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday reacted to Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's "googly" remark, stating that the two Indian ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib "to offer prayers.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday reacted to Pak foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's "googly" remark, stating that the two Indian ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib "to offer prayers." Swaraj added that the "googly" remark has exposed Pakistan, showing that they have no respect for Sikh sentiments. "Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'," she said. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj: Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara. #KartarpuraCorridor — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2018 × "Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," Swaraj stated. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Thursday said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor. Qureshi's remarks came a day after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj categorically ruled out the possibility of resumption of bilateral talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terror activities against India, news agency PTI reported. Pakistan earlier invited Swaraj for Wednesday's ceremony. But Swaraj said she was unable to travel to Kartarpur Sahib due to prior commitments. India was represented at the events by Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri.

'Googly' remark shows Pak has no respect for Sikh sentiments: Sushma Swaraj  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.&nbsp;

"We are not responding to it (Pakistan's invitation to Modi to the SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue. So we will not participate in SAARC," ANI quoted Swaraj as saying.&nbsp;

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EAM Sushma Swaraj: We are not responding to it( invitation by Pakistan for SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue, so we will not participate in SAARC <a href="https://t.co/ufb2H9UDuD">pic.twitter.com/ufb2H9UDuD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1067686478627700736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj had earlier said that India and Pakistan were not going to start talking just becuase they are in the process of opening the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179875">Kartarpur Corridor</a>.&nbsp;

The foundation stone-laying ceremony fo the corridor is taking place today in Kartarpur, Pakistan.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-not-connected-with-dialogue-process-with-pak-sushma-swaraj-179919">Terror and talks cannot go together</a>, Swaraj said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Faisal recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan had said in his victory speech that if India takes one step forward, Pakistan would take two.

The 2016 SAARC summit was also supposed to have been held in Islamabad.&nbsp;

But after a deadly terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in September that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances".

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad. The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad. The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. "We are not responding to it (Pakistan's invitation to Modi to the SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue. So we will not participate in SAARC," ANI quoted Swaraj as saying. EAM Sushma Swaraj: We are not responding to it( invitation by Pakistan for SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue, so we will not participate in SAARC pic.twitter.com/ufb2H9UDuD — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × Swaraj had earlier said that India and Pakistan were not going to start talking just becuase they are in the process of opening the Kartarpur Corridor. The foundation stone-laying ceremony fo the corridor is taking place today in Kartarpur, Pakistan. Terror and talks cannot go together, Swaraj said. Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Faisal recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan had said in his victory speech that if India takes one step forward, Pakistan would take two. The 2016 SAARC summit was also supposed to have been held in Islamabad. But after a deadly terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in September that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances". The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative. (With inputs from PTI)

Modi turns down Pakistan invite to SAARC summit

India's Foreign Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that the Kartarpur Corridor is not connected with dialogue process with Pakistan.

India has been asking for a corridor, which will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, for many years and she said she was happy that Pakistan had for the first time responded positively.

"But that does not mean that bilateral talks will start only on this," she said, adding that terror and talks can't go together.

Swaraj, who is campaigning in Hyderabad ahead of the Telangana elections on December 7, was addressing a press conference.

"The moment Pakistan stops terrorist activities in India, the dialogue can start but the dialogue is not connected with only the Kartarpur corridor," she said.

Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan will <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179875">lay the foundation stone</a> for the Kartarpur corridor on Wednesday.

Pakistan had invited Swaraj for the ceremony but she expressed her inability to attend the deremony due to prior commitments. The minister had said that India would be represented by Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri.

Pakistan had also invited Punjab Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sidhus-decision-to-visit-pakistan-his-way-of-thinking-amarinder-singh-179604">Captain Amarinder Singh</a> and his cabinet colleague Navjot Singh Sidhu. While Singh declined to attend the event, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan's armed forces, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/hope-that-kartarpur-corridor-will-be-a-bridge-of-peace-between-india-pakistan-navjot-singh-sidhu-179759">Sidhu left for Pakistan</a> on Tuesday.

The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid at Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Singh on Monday.

The corridor will facilitate easy passage for Sikh pilgrims to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.

The decision to build passage from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to the International Border was taken by the Union Cabinet on November 22.

It has been a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Kartarpur is located in Shakargarh in Narowal district of Pakistan's Punjab. Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, had spent more than 18 years of his life there.

The Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara is located on the banks of the Ravi river, about three-four kilometres from the border in Pakistan.

India's Foreign Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that the Kartarpur Corridor is not connected with dialogue process with Pakistan. India has been asking for a corridor, which will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, for many years and she said she was happy that Pakistan had for the first time responded positively.

India's Foreign Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that the Kartarpur Corridor is not connected with dialogue process with Pakistan. India has been asking for a corridor, which will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, for many years and she said she was happy that Pakistan had for the first time responded positively. "But that does not mean that bilateral talks will start only on this," she said, adding that terror and talks can't go together. Swaraj, who is campaigning in Hyderabad ahead of the Telangana elections on December 7, was addressing a press conference. "The moment Pakistan stops terrorist activities in India, the dialogue can start but the dialogue is not connected with only the Kartarpur corridor," she said. Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan will lay the foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor on Wednesday. Pakistan had invited Swaraj for the ceremony but she expressed her inability to attend the deremony due to prior commitments. The minister had said that India would be represented by Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri. Pakistan had also invited Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and his cabinet colleague Navjot Singh Sidhu. While Singh declined to attend the event, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan's armed forces, Sidhu left for Pakistan on Tuesday. The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid at Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Singh on Monday. The corridor will facilitate easy passage for Sikh pilgrims to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan. The decision to build passage from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to the International Border was taken by the Union Cabinet on November 22. It has been a long-pending demand of the Sikh community. Kartarpur is located in Shakargarh in Narowal district of Pakistan's Punjab. Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, had spent more than 18 years of his life there. The Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara is located on the banks of the Ravi river, about three-four kilometres from the border in Pakistan.

Kartarpur Corridor not connected with dialogue process with Pak: Sushma Swaraj

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. India will be represented by Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing &amp; Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri.&nbsp;

In a tweet, External Affairs Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/swaraj-invited-to-pakistan-to-attend-ceremony-of-kartarpur-corridor-qureshi-179200">Sushma Swaraj</a> said, "We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India"&nbsp;

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Please do not spread disinformation. We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India. <a href="https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy">https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy</a>
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1066385488267755522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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She also hoped that the Government of Pakistan will "expedite the construction of the corridor" in order to ensure that "our citizens can pay their respects at the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor as soon as possible."

This comes after Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab tourism minister Navjot Singh Sidhu. Navjot Singh Sidhu has already confirmed that he will be going for the ceremony on November 28.

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On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ,Capt Amarinder Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> &amp; Navjot Singh Sidhu <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sherryontopp</a> to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kartarpura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kartarpura</a> on 28 Nov, 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanKartarpuraSpirit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit</a>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1066336238129618944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Senator Faisal Javed Khan telephoned Navjot Singh Sidhu to extend the invitation.

The Indian cabinet announced that India will be building the corridor till the international border on Thursday and urged Islamabad to build it soon. Citing the fall of the Berlin wall, PM Modi also backed the building of the corridor and said, "Kisne socha that ki Berlin ki deewar gir sakti hai, shayad Guru Nanak Dev Ji ke aashirwad se, Kartarpur ka corridor sirf corridor nahi, Jan Jan ko jodne ka bahut bada karan ban sakta hai" (Who would have thought that Berlin wall would fall. With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Kartarpur corridor will not be just a corridor but will act as a bridge to connect people).

President Ram Nath Kovind along with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh will be laying the foundation for the corridor on November 26 while Pakistan's PM Imran Khan will be laying the foundation on November 28. It was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India and New Delhi had been pursuing it for many years.&nbsp;

The corridor issue was again highlighted during Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu's visit to the swearing-in ceremony of Pak PM Imran Khan in which according to Sidhu, Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa told him that the corridor should be open.

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan.

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. India will be represented by Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing & Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri. In a tweet, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India" Please do not spread disinformation. We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India. https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 24, 2018 × She also hoped that the Government of Pakistan will "expedite the construction of the corridor" in order to ensure that "our citizens can pay their respects at the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor as soon as possible." This comes after Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab tourism minister Navjot Singh Sidhu. Navjot Singh Sidhu has already confirmed that he will be going for the ceremony on November 28. On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj @SushmaSwaraj ,Capt Amarinder Singh @capt_amarinder & Navjot Singh Sidhu @sherryontopp to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at #Kartarpura on 28 Nov, 2018.#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) November 24, 2018 × Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Senator Faisal Javed Khan telephoned Navjot Singh Sidhu to extend the invitation. The Indian cabinet announced that India will be building the corridor till the international border on Thursday and urged Islamabad to build it soon. Citing the fall of the Berlin wall, PM Modi also backed the building of the corridor and said, "Kisne socha that ki Berlin ki deewar gir sakti hai, shayad Guru Nanak Dev Ji ke aashirwad se, Kartarpur ka corridor sirf corridor nahi, Jan Jan ko jodne ka bahut bada karan ban sakta hai" (Who would have thought that Berlin wall would fall. With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Kartarpur corridor will not be just a corridor but will act as a bridge to connect people). President Ram Nath Kovind along with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh will be laying the foundation for the corridor on November 26 while Pakistan's PM Imran Khan will be laying the foundation on November 28. It was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India and New Delhi had been pursuing it for many years. The corridor issue was again highlighted during Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu's visit to the swearing-in ceremony of Pak PM Imran Khan in which according to Sidhu, Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa told him that the corridor should be open.

Kartarpur corridor: India to send 2 ministers to breaking ground ceremony in Pakistan

Kartarpur Groundbreaking on November 28

Pakistan has invited External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to visit the country to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday.&nbsp;

A long-pending demand of the Sikh community to build a religious corridor linking India's border district of Gurdaspur with a historic gurudwara in Pakistan may finally be fulfilled with both the countries announcing that stretches would be developed in their respective areas.

Prime Minister Imran Khan will inaugurate the groundbreaking ceremony of&nbsp;the facilities at on the Pakistan side on November 28.&nbsp;

Apart from Swaraj, Qureshi also invited Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and cabinet minister Navjot Singh Sidhu to the ceremony.

"On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj @SushmaSwaraj , Capt Amarinder Singh @capt_amarinder &amp; Navjot Singh Sidhu @sherryontopp to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at #Kartarpura on 28 Nov, 2018," Qureshi tweeted.&nbsp;

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On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ,Capt Amarinder Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> &amp; Navjot Singh Sidhu <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sherryontopp</a> to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kartarpura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kartarpura</a> on 28 Nov, 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanKartarpuraSpirit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit</a>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1066336238129618944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India's Cabinet had cleared a proposal Thursday to develop a corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district to the International Border to facilitate Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan has invited External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to visit the country to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday.

Pakistan has invited External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to visit the country to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday. A long-pending demand of the Sikh community to build a religious corridor linking India's border district of Gurdaspur with a historic gurudwara in Pakistan may finally be fulfilled with both the countries announcing that stretches would be developed in their respective areas. Prime Minister Imran Khan will inaugurate the groundbreaking ceremony of the facilities at on the Pakistan side on November 28. Apart from Swaraj, Qureshi also invited Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and cabinet minister Navjot Singh Sidhu to the ceremony. "On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj @SushmaSwaraj , Capt Amarinder Singh @capt_amarinder & Navjot Singh Sidhu @sherryontopp to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at #Kartarpura on 28 Nov, 2018," Qureshi tweeted. On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj @SushmaSwaraj ,Capt Amarinder Singh @capt_amarinder & Navjot Singh Sidhu @sherryontopp to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at #Kartarpura on 28 Nov, 2018.#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) November 24, 2018 × India's Cabinet had cleared a proposal Thursday to develop a corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district to the International Border to facilitate Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan.

Swaraj invited to Pakistan to attend Kartarpur corridor inauguration: Qureshi

India condemns Pakistan over diplomat's harassment

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The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

"It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons.&nbsp;

 
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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) estimates that Indian banks will have capacity to lend an extra 2.5 trillion rupees to 3.0 trillion rupees ($35 billion to $42 billion) over the next year after it decided to relax a deadline for lenders to boost capital ratios, two sources aware of discussions on the matter said on Tuesday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-khashoggi-murder-some-saudi-royals-turn-against-kings-favourite-son-178419">After Khashoggi murder, some Saudi royals turn against king’s favourite son</a>

Amid international uproar over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, some members of Saudi Arabia's ruling family are agitating to prevent Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman from becoming king, three sources close to the royal court said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-demands-details-of-pakistans-financial-assistance-deal-with-china-report-178365">IMF demands details of Pakistan's financial assistance deal with China: Report</a>

The IMF has demanded Pakistan provide all details of China's financial support to the cash-strapped country to avail a bailout package from it, according to media reports.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">China believes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">Maldives</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402"> will make 'correct choice' to continue with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402">free</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-believes-maldives-will-make-correct-choice-on-trade-deal-178402"> trade deal</a>

China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact.

Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy.

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below). News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons. After RBI relaxes deadline, banks will be able to lend extra $35-42 billion: Sources The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) estimates that Indian banks will have capacity to lend an extra 2.5 trillion rupees to 3.0 trillion rupees ($35 billion to $42 billion) over the next year after it decided to relax a deadline for lenders to boost capital ratios, two sources aware of discussions on the matter said on Tuesday. After Khashoggi murder, some Saudi royals turn against king’s favourite son Amid international uproar over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, some members of Saudi Arabia's ruling family are agitating to prevent Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman from becoming king, three sources close to the royal court said. IMF demands details of Pakistan's financial assistance deal with China: Report The IMF has demanded Pakistan provide all details of China's financial support to the cash-strapped country to avail a bailout package from it, according to media reports. China believes Maldives will make 'correct choice' to continue with free trade deal China believes the Maldives will make the "correct choice" to continue with a bilateral free trade deal, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, after a Maldives politician said the tiny nation would pull out of the pact. Mohamed Nasheed, the chief of the Maldivian Democratic Party, which leads the ruling federal alliance, told Reuters this week that it was a mistake to strike such a deal with the world's second biggest economy.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The BJP's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-attempt-glorify-terrorism-will-backfire-says-sushma-swaraj-unga-168457">Sushma Swaraj</a> said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

"It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," says External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://t.co/ao8FIee2I0">pic.twitter.com/ao8FIee2I0</a>
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It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections: External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://t.co/G3cHC6pKGh">pic.twitter.com/G3cHC6pKGh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064803440877023232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj is currently India's external affairs minister, MP from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, and one of the BJP's tallest leaders.&nbsp;

Swaraj made her announcement to reporters in Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

Posters had come up recently in Vidisha questioning Swaraj's prolonged absence from the town. When it was brought up at a press conference, Swaraj said she would not be contesting the next elections.&nbsp;

News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons.&nbsp;

Swaraj has a kidney transplant. She took time off from work in 2016 because of a diabetes condition.&nbsp;

The reports however quoted BJP sources as saying the party might bring Sushma back to Parliament via the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below).

The BJP's Sushma Swaraj said Wednesday that she will not contest the 2019 elections. "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," Swaraj said (watch video below). #WATCH: "It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections," says External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/ao8FIee2I0 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × It is the party which decides, but I have made up my mind not to contest next elections: External Affairs Minister and Vidisha MP Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/G3cHC6pKGh — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × Swaraj is currently India's external affairs minister, MP from Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh, and one of the BJP's tallest leaders. Swaraj made her announcement to reporters in Madhya Pradesh. Posters had come up recently in Vidisha questioning Swaraj's prolonged absence from the town. When it was brought up at a press conference, Swaraj said she would not be contesting the next elections. News reports said Swaraj was stepping down for health reasons. Swaraj has a kidney transplant. She took time off from work in 2016 because of a diabetes condition. The reports however quoted BJP sources as saying the party might bring Sushma back to Parliament via the Rajya Sabha.

Have made up my mind not to contest next elections: Sushma Swaraj

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday departed for a four-day visit to the Gulf countries of Qatar and Kuwait.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "For an enhanced engagement with India`s extended neighbourhood. EAM @SushmaSwaraj emplanes for the first leg of a four day visit to the Gulf region. EAM will visit Qatar &amp; Kuwait to take forward discussions &amp; decisions for strengthing the bilateral relationships."

Swaraj will have engagements in Qatar on October 28-29 and in Kuwait on October 30-31.

This will be her first visit to both the countries.

In Qatar, Swaraj will interact with her counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar.

She will also call on His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar.

During her visit, the External Affairs Minister will also interact with the Indian community in Doha.

Qatar hosts about seven lakh Indians who form the largest expatriate community there.

The tiny Gulf nation is a reliable energy partner, supplying more than 50 per cent of India`s natural gas imports.

The bilateral trade between the two countries was USD 9.9 billion in 2017-18.

In Kuwait, Swaraj will hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart, His Excellency Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait.

She will also call on His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and interact with the Indian community.

Kuwait is a reliable energy supplier to India and hosts about ten lakh Indians forming the largest expatriate community.

India`s bilateral trade with Kuwait was USD 8.5 billion in 2017-18.

The two-nation visit is in pursuit of India`s objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region which is in India`s extended neighbourhood, the MEA said in a statement.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday departed for a four-day visit to the Gulf countries of Qatar and Kuwait. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "For an enhanced engagement with India`s extended neighbourhood.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday departed for a four-day visit to the Gulf countries of Qatar and Kuwait. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "For an enhanced engagement with India`s extended neighbourhood. EAM @SushmaSwaraj emplanes for the first leg of a four day visit to the Gulf region. EAM will visit Qatar & Kuwait to take forward discussions & decisions for strengthing the bilateral relationships." Swaraj will have engagements in Qatar on October 28-29 and in Kuwait on October 30-31. This will be her first visit to both the countries. In Qatar, Swaraj will interact with her counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar. She will also call on His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar. During her visit, the External Affairs Minister will also interact with the Indian community in Doha. Qatar hosts about seven lakh Indians who form the largest expatriate community there. The tiny Gulf nation is a reliable energy partner, supplying more than 50 per cent of India`s natural gas imports. The bilateral trade between the two countries was USD 9.9 billion in 2017-18. In Kuwait, Swaraj will hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart, His Excellency Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait. She will also call on His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and interact with the Indian community. Kuwait is a reliable energy supplier to India and hosts about ten lakh Indians forming the largest expatriate community. India`s bilateral trade with Kuwait was USD 8.5 billion in 2017-18. The two-nation visit is in pursuit of India`s objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region which is in India`s extended neighbourhood, the MEA said in a statement.

Sushma Swaraj leaves for four-day visit to Qatar, Kuwait

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will travel to Qatar and Kuwait from October 28 to 31 in pursuit of India's objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region.

She will have engagements in Qatar on October 28 and 29 and in Kuwait on October 30 and 31, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

During her visit to Qatar, Swaraj will interact with her counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister. She will also call on Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar. During her visit, she will also interact with the Indian community in Doha, the MEA said.

India and Qatar share millennia old historic multi-dimensional, relations.

The bilateral visit of the Emir of Qatar in March 2015 and Prime Minister of Qatar to India in December 2016 and that of the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar in June 2016 have further boosted traditionally cordial and close ties between the two countries, the MEA said.

Qatar hosts about seven lakh Indians who form the largest expatriate community there. Qatar is a reliable energy partner, supplying more than 50 per cent of India's natural gas imports, it said.

India's bilateral trade with Qatar in 2017-18 was $ 9.9 billion, the MEA said.

The next leg of the visit would be to Kuwait, where Swaraj will hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait.

She will also call on the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and interact with the Indian community.

India and Kuwait have close and friendly bilateral relations. Kuwait is a reliable energy supplier to India and hosts about 10 lakh Indians forming the largest expatriate community. India's bilateral trade with Kuwait in 2017-18 was $ 8.5 billion, the MEA said.

This will be Swaraj's first visit as External Affairs Minister to both the countries.

The visit is in pursuit of India's objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region which is in India's extended neighbourhood.

It will provide an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with the political leadership on a wide range of global, regional and bilateral issues and will advance India's growing engagement with these countries in particular and the region in general, the MEA added.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will travel to Qatar and Kuwait from October 28 to 31 in pursuit of India's objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will travel to Qatar and Kuwait from October 28 to 31 in pursuit of India's objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region. She will have engagements in Qatar on October 28 and 29 and in Kuwait on October 30 and 31, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. During her visit to Qatar, Swaraj will interact with her counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister. She will also call on Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar. During her visit, she will also interact with the Indian community in Doha, the MEA said. India and Qatar share millennia old historic multi-dimensional, relations. The bilateral visit of the Emir of Qatar in March 2015 and Prime Minister of Qatar to India in December 2016 and that of the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar in June 2016 have further boosted traditionally cordial and close ties between the two countries, the MEA said. Qatar hosts about seven lakh Indians who form the largest expatriate community there. Qatar is a reliable energy partner, supplying more than 50 per cent of India's natural gas imports, it said. India's bilateral trade with Qatar in 2017-18 was $ 9.9 billion, the MEA said. The next leg of the visit would be to Kuwait, where Swaraj will hold a bilateral meeting with her counterpart Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait. She will also call on the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and interact with the Indian community. India and Kuwait have close and friendly bilateral relations. Kuwait is a reliable energy supplier to India and hosts about 10 lakh Indians forming the largest expatriate community. India's bilateral trade with Kuwait in 2017-18 was $ 8.5 billion, the MEA said. This will be Swaraj's first visit as External Affairs Minister to both the countries. The visit is in pursuit of India's objective of enhanced engagement with the Gulf region which is in India's extended neighbourhood. It will provide an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with the political leadership on a wide range of global, regional and bilateral issues and will advance India's growing engagement with these countries in particular and the region in general, the MEA added.

Sushma Swaraj to visit Qatar, Kuwait from October 28

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday met visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and reviewed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation, according to news agency ANI.

The two leaders also&nbsp;discussed ways to boost ties between the two countries, the report added.

Earlier in the day, Home Minister Rajnath Singh called on Wickremesinghe and discussed issues related to security and anti-terror cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.

"Continuing commitment to deepen our partnership with a close friend. EAM @SushmaSwaraj called on Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe @RW_UNP. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations and reviewed progress on development projects," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted after the meeting.

The Lankan PM also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit to boost ties in a range of areas, including trade, investment and maritime security.&nbsp;

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External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday met visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and reviewed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation, according to news agency ANI.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday met visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and reviewed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation, according to news agency ANI. The two leaders also discussed ways to boost ties between the two countries, the report added. Earlier in the day, Home Minister Rajnath Singh called on Wickremesinghe and discussed issues related to security and anti-terror cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. "Continuing commitment to deepen our partnership with a close friend. EAM @SushmaSwaraj called on Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe @RW_UNP. Exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations and reviewed progress on development projects," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted after the meeting. The Lankan PM also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Wickremesinghe arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit to boost ties in a range of areas, including trade, investment and maritime security. Delhi: Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe meets Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/6FC2xMeNmK — ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2018 ×

Sushma Swaraj, Rajnath Singh meet Sri Lankan PM Wickremesinghe

Former Maldives foreign affairs minister Dunya Maumoon on Sunday extended the hand of friendship towards India and said that the trust should be regained between the two countries.

The statement from Maumoon, who is the daughter of former President of the Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi.

Taking to Twitter, Maumoon said, "It was such a pleasure to call on my friend HE @SushmaSwaraj to pass on greetings from my father. HE @maumoonagayoom built a warm friendship between our countries while he was in office. We need to regain the trust between our countries."

India-Maldives relations have been strained recently after Male snubbed helicopters and work permit of India.

The rift between the two countries escalated after the Maldives inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan to get help for developing its infrastructure in power sector in July.

The statement from Maumoon came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi.

Former Maldives foreign affairs minister Dunya Maumoon on Sunday extended the hand of friendship towards India and said that the trust should be regained between the two countries. The statement from Maumoon, who is the daughter of former President of the Maldives Maumoon Abdul Gayoom came after meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi. Taking to Twitter, Maumoon said, "It was such a pleasure to call on my friend HE @SushmaSwaraj to pass on greetings from my father. HE @maumoonagayoom built a warm friendship between our countries while he was in office. We need to regain the trust between our countries." India-Maldives relations have been strained recently after Male snubbed helicopters and work permit of India. The rift between the two countries escalated after the Maldives inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pakistan to get help for developing its infrastructure in power sector in July.

Need to regain trust between India, Maldives: Ex-foreign minister Dunya Maumoon

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday urged the SCO members including Pakistan to assume their national responsibility and cooperate with each other, saying terrorism remains the most overwhelming threat to development and prosperity.

In an apparent reference to the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Swaraj said that all connectivity initiatives must be based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, consultations, good governance, transparency, viability and sustainability.

India has opposed the CPEC projects and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir

Swaraj, who is in Tajikistan's capital to attend a two-day conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)'s Council of Heads of Government (CHG), said: "terrorism remains the most overwhelming threat to our common goals of development and prosperity".

As the footprint of terrorism expands, governments must assume their national responsibility and cooperate with each other, she said in the presence of Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

"We have all benefited from globalisation. We must further develop our trade and investment cooperation. We support an open, stable international trade regime based on centrality of the World Trade Organization," Swaraj said.

India has actively supported the SCO Qingdao Summit Leaders' "Appeal to Youth" against radicalisation of youth, she said and congratulated all her colleagues on the successful completion of the 'SCO Peace Mission 2018'.

It was the first time that India participated in these counter-terrorism exercises.

India stands committed to a peace process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled, that can help Afghanistan emerge as a peaceful, secure, stable, inclusive and economically vibrant nation, Swaraj said.

"In this context, we welcome the signing of the Protocol of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group on the sidelines of the Qingdao Summit. We would be happy to co-host with Afghanistan, the next meeting of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group in India," she said.

India is determined to work together in the SCO on environmentally friendly energy alternatives to ensure sustainable development, Swaraj said.

"India shares the desire of the SCO members for enhanced connectivity. All connectivity initiatives must be based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, consultations, good governance, transparency, viability and sustainability," she said.

The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects.

"I am happy to note that SCO has taken a positive step in this direction by organising the first meeting of the Heads of Railways of the SCO Member States last month," she added.

It is the second CHG meeting since India became a full member of the SCO in June 2017.

India was an observer at the SCO since 2005 and has generally participated in the ministerial-level meetings of the grouping which focus mainly on security and economic cooperation in the Eurasian region.

India became a full member of the China-dominated grouping last year and New Delhi's entry into it is expected to increase the bloc's heft in regional geo-politics and trade negotiations besides giving it a pan-Asian hue.

Along with India, Pakistan was also granted membership of the SCO last year.

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members last year.

The bloc currently has eight member countries which represent around 42 per cent of the world's population and 20 per cent of the global GDP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led an official delegation to the SCO Summit in Chinese city of Qingdao in June.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday urged the SCO members including Pakistan to assume their national responsibility and cooperate with each other, saying terrorism remains the most overwhelming threat to development and prosperity.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday urged the SCO members including Pakistan to assume their national responsibility and cooperate with each other, saying terrorism remains the most overwhelming threat to development and prosperity. In an apparent reference to the USD 50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Swaraj said that all connectivity initiatives must be based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, consultations, good governance, transparency, viability and sustainability. India has opposed the CPEC projects and protested to China as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Swaraj, who is in Tajikistan's capital to attend a two-day conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)'s Council of Heads of Government (CHG), said: "terrorism remains the most overwhelming threat to our common goals of development and prosperity". As the footprint of terrorism expands, governments must assume their national responsibility and cooperate with each other, she said in the presence of Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. "We have all benefited from globalisation. We must further develop our trade and investment cooperation. We support an open, stable international trade regime based on centrality of the World Trade Organization," Swaraj said. India has actively supported the SCO Qingdao Summit Leaders' "Appeal to Youth" against radicalisation of youth, she said and congratulated all her colleagues on the successful completion of the 'SCO Peace Mission 2018'. It was the first time that India participated in these counter-terrorism exercises. India stands committed to a peace process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled, that can help Afghanistan emerge as a peaceful, secure, stable, inclusive and economically vibrant nation, Swaraj said. "In this context, we welcome the signing of the Protocol of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group on the sidelines of the Qingdao Summit. We would be happy to co-host with Afghanistan, the next meeting of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group in India," she said. India is determined to work together in the SCO on environmentally friendly energy alternatives to ensure sustainable development, Swaraj said. "India shares the desire of the SCO members for enhanced connectivity. All connectivity initiatives must be based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, consultations, good governance, transparency, viability and sustainability," she said. The CPEC is the flagship project of the multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a pet project of President Xi Jinping aimed at enhancing China's influence around the world through China-funded infrastructure projects. "I am happy to note that SCO has taken a positive step in this direction by organising the first meeting of the Heads of Railways of the SCO Member States last month," she added. It is the second CHG meeting since India became a full member of the SCO in June 2017. India was an observer at the SCO since 2005 and has generally participated in the ministerial-level meetings of the grouping which focus mainly on security and economic cooperation in the Eurasian region. India became a full member of the China-dominated grouping last year and New Delhi's entry into it is expected to increase the bloc's heft in regional geo-politics and trade negotiations besides giving it a pan-Asian hue. Along with India, Pakistan was also granted membership of the SCO last year. The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India and Pakistan became its members last year. The bloc currently has eight member countries which represent around 42 per cent of the world's population and 20 per cent of the global GDP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led an official delegation to the SCO Summit in Chinese city of Qingdao in June.

Terrorism remains most overwhelming threat to development: Sushma Swaraj

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