With maritime security in focus, Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi will be on a two-day India visit. He will land in New Delhi on March 23.

This is the first ever visit of the Oman FM to India after taking charge. He is expected to hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Thursday (March 24).

Oman is strategically located straddling the Strait of Hormuz in the north and Bab al-Mandab Strait in the south, and plays an important role in the maritime security of the region.

Oman is the only country in the Gulf region which holds joint exercises with India’s all three defence forces.

The West Asian country also provides key logistics support to Indian ships and aircraft in the region for anti-piracy and maritime security missions.

Badr was appointed as Omani Foreign Minister in August 2020, and had earlier served as Secretary General in Omani Foreign Ministry since 2007.

The last Omani foreign minister to visit India was in April 2017, while Jaishankar had visited the country in December 2019.

Badr and Jaishankar had met two times before. First in August 2021 in Tehran on the sidelines of oath-taking ceremony of the new president of Iran, and later in December 2021 in UAE on the sidelines of 5th Indian Ocean Conference. Both also held a virtual meeting in December 2020.

Oman is India's key interlocutor in the West Asian region. The country has been playing a constructive role in regional conflicts, including in relations to Yemen and Iran.

Recently, Oman played a critical role in the release of two British citizens of Iranian origin, Anoosheh Ashoori and Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe from Iran.

Both of them were first brought to Oman from Iran on March 16, 2022, before their departure to the UK. The country's role was widely appreciated by the UK leadership.

The visit of Omani foreign minister comes even has this year has seen a number of high-level visits from the country from, especially on the defence side

The Secretary General of Oman’s Ministry of Defence Dr Mohammed Al-Zaabi visited India on January 30 this year for a five-day visit to chair the Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC), co-chaired with the defence secretary.

During the visit, he became the first foreign dignitary to embark on India’s Indigenous Aircraft Carrier —Vikrant.

This was immediately followed by the visit of Commander of Royal Navy of Oman Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser Al Rahbi to India.

Last month also saw the latest edition of bilateral air force exercise “Eastern Bridge VI” at Air Force Station in western Jodhpur city.

Apart from security and defence ties, Oman is also one of the important trade partners for India.

India-Oman trade stood at US$ 5.443 billion (export – US $2.35 billion and imports at US $3.09 billion). In the three quarters of the financial year 2021-22, bilateral trade has increased to the US $6.5 billion.

Excluding the oil and gas sector, India is the largest investor in Oman with over 4,100 Indian enterprises and establishments in Oman with an estimated investment of US$ 7.5 billion.

Amid the Covid pandemic, India became the first country to gift 100,000 doses of Covishield vaccine to Oman in January 2021.&nbsp;

With maritime security in focus, Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi will be on a two-day India visit. He will land in New Delhi on March 23. This is the first ever visit of the Oman FM to India after taking charge.

With maritime security in focus, Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi will be on a two-day India visit. He will land in New Delhi on March 23. This is the first ever visit of the Oman FM to India after taking charge. He is expected to hold talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Thursday (March 24). Oman is strategically located straddling the Strait of Hormuz in the north and Bab al-Mandab Strait in the south, and plays an important role in the maritime security of the region. Oman is the only country in the Gulf region which holds joint exercises with India’s all three defence forces. The West Asian country also provides key logistics support to Indian ships and aircraft in the region for anti-piracy and maritime security missions. Badr was appointed as Omani Foreign Minister in August 2020, and had earlier served as Secretary General in Omani Foreign Ministry since 2007. The last Omani foreign minister to visit India was in April 2017, while Jaishankar had visited the country in December 2019. Badr and Jaishankar had met two times before. First in August 2021 in Tehran on the sidelines of oath-taking ceremony of the new president of Iran, and later in December 2021 in UAE on the sidelines of 5th Indian Ocean Conference. Both also held a virtual meeting in December 2020. Oman is India's key interlocutor in the West Asian region. The country has been playing a constructive role in regional conflicts, including in relations to Yemen and Iran. Recently, Oman played a critical role in the release of two British citizens of Iranian origin, Anoosheh Ashoori and Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe from Iran. Both of them were first brought to Oman from Iran on March 16, 2022, before their departure to the UK. The country's role was widely appreciated by the UK leadership. The visit of Omani foreign minister comes even has this year has seen a number of high-level visits from the country from, especially on the defence side The Secretary General of Oman’s Ministry of Defence Dr Mohammed Al-Zaabi visited India on January 30 this year for a five-day visit to chair the Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC), co-chaired with the defence secretary. During the visit, he became the first foreign dignitary to embark on India’s Indigenous Aircraft Carrier —Vikrant. This was immediately followed by the visit of Commander of Royal Navy of Oman Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser Al Rahbi to India. Last month also saw the latest edition of bilateral air force exercise “Eastern Bridge VI” at Air Force Station in western Jodhpur city. Apart from security and defence ties, Oman is also one of the important trade partners for India. India-Oman trade stood at US$ 5.443 billion (export – US $2.35 billion and imports at US $3.09 billion). In the three quarters of the financial year 2021-22, bilateral trade has increased to the US $6.5 billion. Excluding the oil and gas sector, India is the largest investor in Oman with over 4,100 Indian enterprises and establishments in Oman with an estimated investment of US$ 7.5 billion. Amid the Covid pandemic, India became the first country to gift 100,000 doses of Covishield vaccine to Oman in January 2021.

With maritime security in focus, Oman FM to visit India on March 23

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the sanctions imposed by the West has created a global energy crisis. Now, South Korea and Germany held energy talks in Qatar.

Qatar to help Germany cut reliance on Russian oil amid Ukraine conflict

Indian PM Narendra Modi is holding virtual talks with his Australian counterpart PM Scott Morrison. New initiatives for the partnership to be announced.

India-Australia bilateral summit: PM Narendra Modi holds virtual talks with PM Scott Morrison

Russia and Ukraine held the fourth round of peace talks amid an escalation on the ground. Both sides signalled optimism before the negotiations began. After 19 days of fighting, is diplomacy pulling through? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Ukraine, Russia optimistic about round 4 of talks

The United States has threatened China over sanctions as their officials are set to hold a crucial meeting in Rome amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Jake Sullivan to meet top Chinese diplomat in Rome as the US, China set to hold crucial talks

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says that both the leaders met to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Iran nuclear talks in Vienna, and establish a new strategic partnership.

Germany and Israel's high-stakes meet for more Russia-Ukraine peace talks

Amid all the mounting fears of an armed conflict, diplomatic avenues for de-escalation remain open, and France has initiated a fresh attempt to defuse the simmering tension. Diplomatic advisers from Russia, Ukraine, France, and Germany, the so-called Normandy Four, will meet for talks in Paris tomorrow

4 way Normandy Talks' to be held on January 26th

Taliban delegation led by acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has started talks with Western government officials and Afghan civil society representatives in Oslo. The first day of their three-day visit will be dedicated to women activists and journalists.&nbsp;

While the Taliban claims that they have changed and are working on getting more girls back to school after allowing high schools for girls in some provinces to open, many women and rights advocates remain sceptical.&nbsp;

Facilitated by Norway, the discussion will focus on human rights and the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The talks are taking place behind closed doors at the Soria Moria Hotel, which is on the outskirts of Oslo.&nbsp;

Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt had earlier stressed that the talks would “not represent a legitimisation or recognition of the Taliban”.

“But we must talk to the de facto authorities in the country. We cannot allow the political situation to lead to an even worse humanitarian disaster," she said.&nbsp;

On Monday, the Taliban is scheduled to meet representatives of the US, France, Britain, Germany, Italy and the European Union. Tuesday will be dedicated to bilateral talks with Norwegian officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban delegation led by acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has started talks with Western government officials and Afghan civil society representatives in Oslo.

Taliban delegation led by acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has started talks with Western government officials and Afghan civil society representatives in Oslo. The first day of their three-day visit will be dedicated to women activists and journalists. While the Taliban claims that they have changed and are working on getting more girls back to school after allowing high schools for girls in some provinces to open, many women and rights advocates remain sceptical. Facilitated by Norway, the discussion will focus on human rights and the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The talks are taking place behind closed doors at the Soria Moria Hotel, which is on the outskirts of Oslo. Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt had earlier stressed that the talks would “not represent a legitimisation or recognition of the Taliban”. “But we must talk to the de facto authorities in the country. We cannot allow the political situation to lead to an even worse humanitarian disaster," she said. On Monday, the Taliban is scheduled to meet representatives of the US, France, Britain, Germany, Italy and the European Union. Tuesday will be dedicated to bilateral talks with Norwegian officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban delegation begins humanitarian talks in Oslo

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian is on a visit to China, and during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi has blamed the United States for the difficulties in renegotiating the Iranian nuclear deal.

Iran FM visits China: Beijing slams US sanctions on Iran amid Nuclear deal talks

US and Russian diplomats have wrapped up their first round of high-stakes talks in Geneva with both sides showing no signs of narrowing the differences on Ukraine.

US-Russia wraps up first round of high-stakes talks in Geneva

US: Large parts of Russian proposals are non-starters

Ahead of their talk schedule for the 10th of January next year, both Moscow and Washington have assumed a rather diplomatic tone after ratcheting up the rhetoric and rising tensions over Ukraine. An official from the Biden administration announced that the talks will take place next month where both sides will present their own concerns.

Ukraine Tensions | US, Russia to hold talks on January 10

The US says it is ready for talks with Russia amid growing tensions over Ukraine invasion fears. However, it makes it clear that any dialogue must be based on reciprocity.

US says it is ready for talks with Russia amid growing tensions over Ukraine

TS Tirumurti, the permanent representative of India to the United Nations during a UNSC meeting on Palestine, advocated for the resumption of talks between Israel and Palestine to resolve issues.

India at UNSC meeting agrees to support direct talks between Israel & Palestine to resolve issues

Diplomats are back at the table for Iran nuclear talks, they went on a deal. But are they willing to make a concession for it? The Iranians want all sanctions lifted while the Americans say, we don't trust your intentions.

Diplomats back at the table for Iran nuclear talks

Time is running out for the U.N. atomic watchdog to gain access to re-install cameras at a centrifuge-parts workshop in Iran, as the agency will soon be unable to guarantee equipment is not being diverted to make atom bombs, its chief said on Wednesday.

Iran: UN nuclear watchdog monitors Iran's nuclear program

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington D.C, Beijing, and Islamabad were all set to meet but, the United States has now decided to skip it citing logistical reasons. Watch Anas Mallick giving more details on the topic.

Regional powers engage with new rulers of Afghanistan

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington D.C, Beijing, and Islamabad were all set to meet but the United States has now decided to skip it citing logistical reasons.

Taliban, China, Pakistan and Russia set to hold talks

After the 13th round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting failed to resolve issues at the LAC, the Chinese looked to pin the blame on the Indians over the impasse. &nbsp;

People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theater Command spokesperson Senior Colonel Long Shaohua said, “The Indian side still persisted in its unreasonable and unrealistic demands, which added difficulties to the negotiations.” &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-not-agreeable-to-suggestions-says-india-after-military-talks-fail-again-419783" hreflang="en">'Chinese not agreeable to suggestions', says India after talks fail again</a>

The talks were held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on Sunday. The spokesperson said, “Instead of misjudging the situation, the Indian side should cherish the hard-won situation in China-India border areas.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

China also reiterated its long-standing rhetoric. “During the meeting, the Chinese side made great efforts to promote the easing and cooling of the border situation and fully demonstrated China’s sincerity of maintaining overall interests of bilateral military relations,” the spokesperson added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-taiwan-tensions-tsai-ing-wens-remarks-incite-confrontation-distort-facts-says-beijing-spokesperson-419777">China-Taiwan tensions: Beijing denounces Tsai’s national day speech</a>

Pointing out that China is firm in its resolve to safeguard national sovereignty, the spokesperson looked to again justify its aggressive actions at the LAC. &nbsp;

Watch | Indian Army accuses Chinese PLA of violating protocols

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-army-accuses-chinese-pla-of-violating-protocols-419837/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Putting the entire onus on India over the issue, the spokesperson added, the Indian side should abide by the relevant agreements and consensus reached between the two countries and two militaries, show sincerity and take concrete actions to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the border areas with China. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

After the 13th round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting failed to resolve issues at the LAC, the Chinese looked to pin the blame on the Indians over the impasse.

After the 13th round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting failed to resolve issues at the LAC, the Chinese looked to pin the blame on the Indians over the impasse. People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theater Command spokesperson Senior Colonel Long Shaohua said, “The Indian side still persisted in its unreasonable and unrealistic demands, which added difficulties to the negotiations.” Also Read: 'Chinese not agreeable to suggestions', says India after talks fail again The talks were held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on Sunday. The spokesperson said, “Instead of misjudging the situation, the Indian side should cherish the hard-won situation in China-India border areas.” China also reiterated its long-standing rhetoric. “During the meeting, the Chinese side made great efforts to promote the easing and cooling of the border situation and fully demonstrated China’s sincerity of maintaining overall interests of bilateral military relations,” the spokesperson added. Also Read: China-Taiwan tensions: Beijing denounces Tsai’s national day speech Pointing out that China is firm in its resolve to safeguard national sovereignty, the spokesperson looked to again justify its aggressive actions at the LAC. Watch | Indian Army accuses Chinese PLA of violating protocols Putting the entire onus on India over the issue, the spokesperson added, the Indian side should abide by the relevant agreements and consensus reached between the two countries and two militaries, show sincerity and take concrete actions to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the border areas with China. (With inputs from agencies)

After talks fail to resolve issues at LAC, China pins blame on India

In an apparent effort to clear air after a row over a submarines contract sparked rare tensions between the allies, US President Joe Biden has requested for early talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, France said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The announcement came after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison rejected accusations that Canberra lied about plans to cancel the contract to buy French submarines. The PM said he had raised concerns over the deal "some months ago". &nbsp;

Watch:

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The decision of Australia to tear up the deal of French submarines in favour of US nuclear-powered vessels has sparked outrage in Paris. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In an unprecedented move, Macron has recalled France's ambassadors to Canberra and Washington. &nbsp;

On Sunday, French government spokesman Gabriel Attal said there would be a telephone conversation between Biden and Macron "in the coming days" at the request of the US president. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-foreign-minister-jean-yves-le-drian-seek-to-deepen-india-france-strategic-partnership-414120" hreflang="en">Jaishankar, foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian seek to deepen India-France strategic partnership</a>

After the announcement of a US-Australian-British defence pact that prompted Canberra's cancellation of the huge contract for diesel-electric French vessels, Macron will ask the US president for "clarification". &nbsp;&nbsp;

Attal said, "We want explanations." The US have to answer for "what looks a lot like a major breach of trust". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In an apparent effort to clear air after a row over a submarines contract sparked rare tensions between the allies, US President Joe Biden has requested for early talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, France said on Sunday.

In an apparent effort to clear air after a row over a submarines contract sparked rare tensions between the allies, US President Joe Biden has requested for early talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, France said on Sunday. The announcement came after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison rejected accusations that Canberra lied about plans to cancel the contract to buy French submarines. The PM said he had raised concerns over the deal "some months ago". Watch: × The decision of Australia to tear up the deal of French submarines in favour of US nuclear-powered vessels has sparked outrage in Paris. In an unprecedented move, Macron has recalled France's ambassadors to Canberra and Washington. On Sunday, French government spokesman Gabriel Attal said there would be a telephone conversation between Biden and Macron "in the coming days" at the request of the US president. Also Read: Jaishankar, foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian seek to deepen India-France strategic partnership After the announcement of a US-Australian-British defence pact that prompted Canberra's cancellation of the huge contract for diesel-electric French vessels, Macron will ask the US president for "clarification". Attal said, "We want explanations." The US have to answer for "what looks a lot like a major breach of trust". (With inputs from agencies)

Amid nuclear submarine contract row, Biden seeks early talks with Macron to clear air  

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. &nbsp;

Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. 
 
Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. 
 
Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. <a href="https://t.co/n7pNmL1d7K">pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439614842843717637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/a-day-after-bitter-power-tussle-indias-northern-punjab-state-gets-new-cm-414241" hreflang="en">A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM</a>

The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had a busy day on Sunday. After holding discussions with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on regional and bilateral issues, the minister also welcomed Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selaković. Jaishankar discussed on ways to take the strong, traditional friendship between both the countries forward. Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side. pic.twitter.com/n7pNmL1d7K — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 19, 2021 × The two leaders also reaffirmed the strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. And agreed to take forward the long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side, between the two nations. In a tweet, Jaishankar announced, “Warm and fruitful discussions with Serbian FM Nikola Selaković. Reaffirmed our strong political bonds and independent stance in global politics. Agreed to take forward our long-standing cooperation, especially on the economic side.” Watch: × In the meeting with Saudi foreign minister, Jaishankar discussed various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The two leaders also talked about ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. On Twitter, Jaishankar earlier said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." Also Read: A day after bitter power tussle, India's northern Punjab state gets new CM The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian external affairs minister meets Serbian foreign minister, holds talks

The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene.

"We had very substantial, very good discussions," Norwegian diplomat Geir Pedersen said after meeting Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal al-Meqdad.

"We discussed... the economic and humanitarian challenges here in Syria, the challenges when it comes to livelihoods, and what we all can do the help to improve that situation."

The envoy said he hoped "to move forward also on the constitutional committee" working towards a post-war constitution, and that it would be "possible to call for a sixth round" of talks between its members.

The UN-backed committee made up of 45 people, 15 delegates each representing the Damascus regime, the opposition and civil society&nbsp; was created in September 2019 but has since made little headway.

Pedersen said a fifth session in January had been "a missed opportunity and disappointment".

Since then, Bashar al-Assad in July took the oath of office for a fourth term as Syria's president, after officially winning 95 percent of the vote in an election dismissed abroad.

After clawing back large parts of the country from rebels and jihadists with key Russian backing over the years, he vowed to make "liberating those parts of the homeland that still need to be" one of his top priorities.

Endless rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem Syria's war, which has killed around 500,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal suppression of anti-government protests in 2011.

In recent years UN efforts have instead focused around the work of the constitutional committee.

The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene.

The UN's Syria envoy said he held "very good discussions" in Damascus Saturday, and expressed hopes that a committee to discuss a post-war constitution for the country could soon reconvene. "We had very substantial, very good discussions," Norwegian diplomat Geir Pedersen said after meeting Syria's Foreign Minister Faisal al-Meqdad. "We discussed... the economic and humanitarian challenges here in Syria, the challenges when it comes to livelihoods, and what we all can do the help to improve that situation." The envoy said he hoped "to move forward also on the constitutional committee" working towards a post-war constitution, and that it would be "possible to call for a sixth round" of talks between its members. The UN-backed committee made up of 45 people, 15 delegates each representing the Damascus regime, the opposition and civil society was created in September 2019 but has since made little headway. Pedersen said a fifth session in January had been "a missed opportunity and disappointment". Since then, Bashar al-Assad in July took the oath of office for a fourth term as Syria's president, after officially winning 95 percent of the vote in an election dismissed abroad. After clawing back large parts of the country from rebels and jihadists with key Russian backing over the years, he vowed to make "liberating those parts of the homeland that still need to be" one of his top priorities. Endless rounds of UN-backed peace talks have failed to stem Syria's war, which has killed around 500,000 people and displaced millions since it started with the brutal suppression of anti-government protests in 2011. In recent years UN efforts have instead focused around the work of the constitutional committee.

UN envoy hopeful Syria constitution talks to resume

Israeli&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Benny Gantz met&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;president&nbsp;Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official&nbsp;Israeli-Palestinian&nbsp;talks&nbsp;since Prime&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Naftali Bennett took office in June.

Gantz travelled to the West Bank city of Ramallah for security and economic discussions with the 85-year-old&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;leader, officials said on Monday.

They came hours after&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;premier Bennett returned from Washington where he met with US&nbsp;President&nbsp;Joe Biden at the White House.

"Defence&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Benny Gantz met with&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;Authority Chairman Mahmud Abbas (Sunday) evening to discuss security policy, civilian and economic issues," Israel's&nbsp;defence&nbsp;ministry said in a statement. &nbsp;

Gantz, head of a centrist party in Israel's government coalition, told Abbas "that Israel seeks to take measures that will strengthen the PA's economy. They also discussed shaping the security and economic situations in the West Bank and in Gaza," it added.&nbsp;

"They agreed to continue communicating further."

The meeting included the head of the&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;military branch responsible for civil affairs in the&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;territories, Ghasan Alyan,&nbsp;senior PA official Hussein Al Sheikh and&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;intelligence chief Majid Faraj.&nbsp;

Al Sheikh confirmed the meeting on Twitter. Gantz's office said the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister&nbsp;and Abbas held "a one-on-one meeting" after the larger&nbsp;talks.&nbsp;

Relations between Israel and the PA, which is based in the&nbsp;Israeli-occupied West Bank, have deteriorated substantially in recent years.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-on-lgbtq-community-across-uk-sparks-fear-409311">Also read |&nbsp;Attacks on LGBTQ+ community across UK sparks fear</a>

Former&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;prime&nbsp;minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu, in power from 2009 to 2021, was derided by Palestinians.&nbsp;

He made no substantive efforts towards resolving the decades-old conflict while overseeing a steady expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, communities regarded as illegal under international law.&nbsp;

Bennett is a hardline nationalist who opposes&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;statehood and previously led a powerful settler lobbying council.&nbsp;

His office has made clear that Israel's ideologically disparate coalition, which includes left-wingers and hawks like the premier, has no plans to initiate a new round of peace&nbsp;talks.&nbsp;

But top&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;officials have indicated a desire to boost the PA amid concern over a fresh conflict with Hamas Islamists who control Gaza, an&nbsp;Israeli-blockaded&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;territory that is separate from the West Bank.&nbsp;

Eleven days of conflict between Israel and&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;militants in Gaza in May marked the worst hostilities in the area since 2014 and unrest has persisted despite an Egypt-brokered ceasefire.&nbsp;

Abbas's PA has also come under mounting global criticism over an alleged crackdown on key rights following the death in&nbsp;Palestinian&nbsp;custody of a prominent activist.&nbsp;

The United Nations and European Union last week expressed alarm over a spate of arrests targeting leading critics of Abbas and the PA.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official Israeli-Palestinian talks since Prime Minister Naftali Bennett took office in June.

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank on Sunday for the first official Israeli-Palestinian talks since Prime Minister Naftali Bennett took office in June. Gantz travelled to the West Bank city of Ramallah for security and economic discussions with the 85-year-old Palestinian leader, officials said on Monday. They came hours after Israeli premier Bennett returned from Washington where he met with US President Joe Biden at the White House. "Defence Minister Benny Gantz met with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmud Abbas (Sunday) evening to discuss security policy, civilian and economic issues," Israel's defence ministry said in a statement. Gantz, head of a centrist party in Israel's government coalition, told Abbas "that Israel seeks to take measures that will strengthen the PA's economy. They also discussed shaping the security and economic situations in the West Bank and in Gaza," it added. "They agreed to continue communicating further." The meeting included the head of the Israeli military branch responsible for civil affairs in the Palestinian territories, Ghasan Alyan, senior PA official Hussein Al Sheikh and Palestinian intelligence chief Majid Faraj. Al Sheikh confirmed the meeting on Twitter. Gantz's office said the defence minister and Abbas held "a one-on-one meeting" after the larger talks. Relations between Israel and the PA, which is based in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, have deteriorated substantially in recent years. Also read | Attacks on LGBTQ+ community across UK sparks fear Former Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in power from 2009 to 2021, was derided by Palestinians. He made no substantive efforts towards resolving the decades-old conflict while overseeing a steady expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank, communities regarded as illegal under international law. Bennett is a hardline nationalist who opposes Palestinian statehood and previously led a powerful settler lobbying council. His office has made clear that Israel's ideologically disparate coalition, which includes left-wingers and hawks like the premier, has no plans to initiate a new round of peace talks. But top Israeli officials have indicated a desire to boost the PA amid concern over a fresh conflict with Hamas Islamists who control Gaza, an Israeli-blockaded Palestinian territory that is separate from the West Bank. Eleven days of conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza in May marked the worst hostilities in the area since 2014 and unrest has persisted despite an Egypt-brokered ceasefire. Abbas's PA has also come under mounting global criticism over an alleged crackdown on key rights following the death in Palestinian custody of a prominent activist. The United Nations and European Union last week expressed alarm over a spate of arrests targeting leading critics of Abbas and the PA.

Palestinian president, Israeli defence minister hold rare talks

The US&nbsp;special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. 
 
Sung Kim arrived in Seoul on Saturday for a four-day visit. He met with Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong at the minister's residence on Sunday, where they discussed ways for a speedy resumption of the peace process on the Korean peninsula, a foreign ministry official said. 
 
On Monday Kim will meet with his South Korean counterpart, Noh Kyu-duk, and on Tuesday with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov in Seoul. 
 
The visit comes as a brief thaw in inter-Korean relations in July gave way to a new standoff over US-South Korean military exercises that North Korea has warned could trigger a security crisis. 
 
The nine-day exercise began on August&nbsp;16, with silence so far from North Korean state media despite fears that the country could conduct a missile test or take other actions to underscore its disapproval. 
 
North Korea has said it is open to diplomacy, but that the American overtures appear hollow while "hostile acts" such as the drills continue. 
 
US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration has said it will explore diplomacy to achieve North Korean denuclearisation, but shown no willingness to ease sanctions.

The US special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.

The US special envoy for North Korea was due to meet his South Korean counterpart on Monday, as the two allies look for ways to entice Pyongyang back to talks over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. Sung Kim arrived in Seoul on Saturday for a four-day visit. He met with Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong at the minister's residence on Sunday, where they discussed ways for a speedy resumption of the peace process on the Korean peninsula, a foreign ministry official said. On Monday Kim will meet with his South Korean counterpart, Noh Kyu-duk, and on Tuesday with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov in Seoul. The visit comes as a brief thaw in inter-Korean relations in July gave way to a new standoff over US-South Korean military exercises that North Korea has warned could trigger a security crisis. The nine-day exercise began on August 16, with silence so far from North Korean state media despite fears that the country could conduct a missile test or take other actions to underscore its disapproval. North Korea has said it is open to diplomacy, but that the American overtures appear hollow while "hostile acts" such as the drills continue. US President Joe Biden's administration has said it will explore diplomacy to achieve North Korean denuclearisation, but shown no willingness to ease sanctions.

US, South Korea envoys discuss jumpstarting talks with North Korea

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation. 
 
Unlike previous negotiation efforts, the talks will include more than a dozen countries, among them the Netherlands, Russia, Bolivia, Turkey and Norway, which will act as the facilitator. 
 
At the National Museum of Anthropology, the parties agreed to a memorandum of understanding containing the road map that will guide the dialogue process. 
 
For the talks to advance to a potential agreement, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demands that sanctions imposed by the United States and Europe on officials and institutions be lifted. Venezuela says the sanctions are responsible for the OPEC member's economic crisis. 
 
For its part, the opposition coalition calls to allow humanitarian aid, including vaccines against COVID-19, to enter into Venezuela; the release of dozens of supporters whom it considers "political prisoners;" and guarantees it will be allowed to participate in regional elections in November. 
 
"We already know what we do not agree on. ... The job now is to find points of confluence to guarantee the future and the happiness of the people of Venezuela," Jorge Rodriguez, president of Venezuela's parliament, said at the beginning of the talks. 
 
The return to the negotiating table represents a turnaround for the opposition, which in the past accused Maduro of using dialogue to buy time and defuse international pressure. The Venezuelan government abandoned the 2019 dialogue, which took place in Barbados and Norway, after the United States tightened sanctions. 
 
"Today we are beginning the second stage of a negotiation process that we know will be complex, which will surely have very difficult moments," said Gerardo Blyde, chair of the Venezuelan opposition delegation. 
 
"Between these two sidewalks where each party supports narratives that seem diametrically opposed is a street full of hopeless and suffering citizens, our people," he added.

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation.

Representatives of the Venezuelan government and the opposition began a round of talks on Friday in Mexico City aimed at overcoming Venezuela's acute political and economic crisis, which has caused millions to flee the Latin American nation. Unlike previous negotiation efforts, the talks will include more than a dozen countries, among them the Netherlands, Russia, Bolivia, Turkey and Norway, which will act as the facilitator. At the National Museum of Anthropology, the parties agreed to a memorandum of understanding containing the road map that will guide the dialogue process. For the talks to advance to a potential agreement, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro demands that sanctions imposed by the United States and Europe on officials and institutions be lifted. Venezuela says the sanctions are responsible for the OPEC member's economic crisis. For its part, the opposition coalition calls to allow humanitarian aid, including vaccines against COVID-19, to enter into Venezuela; the release of dozens of supporters whom it considers "political prisoners;" and guarantees it will be allowed to participate in regional elections in November. "We already know what we do not agree on. ... The job now is to find points of confluence to guarantee the future and the happiness of the people of Venezuela," Jorge Rodriguez, president of Venezuela's parliament, said at the beginning of the talks. The return to the negotiating table represents a turnaround for the opposition, which in the past accused Maduro of using dialogue to buy time and defuse international pressure. The Venezuelan government abandoned the 2019 dialogue, which took place in Barbados and Norway, after the United States tightened sanctions. "Today we are beginning the second stage of a negotiation process that we know will be complex, which will surely have very difficult moments," said Gerardo Blyde, chair of the Venezuelan opposition delegation. "Between these two sidewalks where each party supports narratives that seem diametrically opposed is a street full of hopeless and suffering citizens, our people," he added.

Venezuelan government and opposition talks open in Mexico City

Pakistan’s National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf&nbsp;said&nbsp;no US official or lawmaker asked for a military base in Pakistan, a Dawn report said.&nbsp;

Yusuf gave the statement while leaving for&nbsp;Islamabad on Thursday night.&nbsp;He was on&nbsp;a&nbsp;10-day visit to the United States capital.&nbsp;

Summing up the visit, the&nbsp;national security adviser told&nbsp;US-based Pakistani journalists,&nbsp;“The word base was not mentioned, not even once, during our talks, except in the media.&nbsp;Bases were not discussed at all from either side during this trip because we have already made our position clear. That chapter is closed."&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;there were&nbsp;reports in both&nbsp;the&nbsp;US and Pakistani media, which&nbsp;said&nbsp;that the&nbsp;US&nbsp;was seeking military bases in Pakistan to influence developments in Afghanistan,&nbsp;especially&nbsp;if the Taliban seized Kabul.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;US officials&nbsp;also&nbsp;did talk about using Pakistani airspace&nbsp;to&nbsp;reach Afghanistan and having bases in the region but&nbsp;there was no mention of the location&nbsp;at&nbsp;a recent congressional hearing.&nbsp;

Underlining&nbsp;Pakistan’s desire to maintain good ties with both&nbsp;Washington&nbsp;and&nbsp;Beijing,&nbsp;Yusuf&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“If there are tensions between the United States and China, we cannot say that our relations with both will remain seamless.”&nbsp;

Pakistan’s National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf said no US official or lawmaker asked for a military base in Pakistan, a Dawn report said. Yusuf gave the statement while leaving for Islamabad on Thursday night.

Pakistan’s National Security Adviser Moeed Yusuf said no US official or lawmaker asked for a military base in Pakistan, a Dawn report said. Yusuf gave the statement while leaving for Islamabad on Thursday night. He was on a 10-day visit to the United States capital. Summing up the visit, the national security adviser told US-based Pakistani journalists, “The word base was not mentioned, not even once, during our talks, except in the media. Bases were not discussed at all from either side during this trip because we have already made our position clear. That chapter is closed." Earlier, there were reports in both the US and Pakistani media, which said that the US was seeking military bases in Pakistan to influence developments in Afghanistan, especially if the Taliban seized Kabul. The US officials also did talk about using Pakistani airspace to reach Afghanistan and having bases in the region but there was no mention of the location at a recent congressional hearing. Underlining Pakistan’s desire to maintain good ties with both Washington and Beijing, Yusuf said, “If there are tensions between the United States and China, we cannot say that our relations with both will remain seamless.”

Pakistan NSA says, word ‘base’ never mentioned in talks with US 

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks.

The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA.

In a pair of tweets from his verified account, Abbas Aragchi said the nuclear talks in Vienna could not resume until Iran's hardline president-elect is inaugurated in early August.

"We're in a transition period as a democratic transfer of power is underway in our capital," he said.

"The nuclear talks must thus obviously await our new administration. This is what every democracy demands," Aragchi said. He added that the US and Britain 'need to understand this and stop linking a humanitarian exchange ready to be implemented with the JCPOA'.

"Keeping such an exchange hostage to political aims achieves neither," said Aragchi, who is Iran's chief negotiator at the Vienna talks.&nbsp;"10 prisoners on all sides may be released tomorrow if US &amp; UK fulfill their part of deal."

A sixth round of nuclear talks ended last month without agreement ahead of Iran's presidential election won by Ebrahim Raisi.

The US has repeatedly said it is ready for a seventh round as soon as Iran is ready while also calling for the immediate release of American citizens detained in Iran.

In response to Aragchi's remarks, State Department spokesman Ned Price categorically rejected the claim, denied there was already an agreement on a swap, and said the US was prepared to continue talks on prisoners even while waiting for the resumption of the nuclear negotiations.

"These comments are an outrageous effort to deflect blame for the current impasse on a potential mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA," Price said.

"We stand ready to return to Vienna to complete work on a mutual return to the JCPOA once Iran has made the necessary decisions."

Price called Aragchi's reference to the possible imminent release of 10 prisoners on all sides 'just another cruel effort to raise the hopes of their families.'&nbsp;"If Iran were truly interested in making a humanitarian gesture, it would simply release the detainees immediately," he said.

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks. The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA.

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks. The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA. In a pair of tweets from his verified account, Abbas Aragchi said the nuclear talks in Vienna could not resume until Iran's hardline president-elect is inaugurated in early August. "We're in a transition period as a democratic transfer of power is underway in our capital," he said. "The nuclear talks must thus obviously await our new administration. This is what every democracy demands," Aragchi said. He added that the US and Britain 'need to understand this and stop linking a humanitarian exchange ready to be implemented with the JCPOA'. "Keeping such an exchange hostage to political aims achieves neither," said Aragchi, who is Iran's chief negotiator at the Vienna talks. "10 prisoners on all sides may be released tomorrow if US & UK fulfill their part of deal." A sixth round of nuclear talks ended last month without agreement ahead of Iran's presidential election won by Ebrahim Raisi. The US has repeatedly said it is ready for a seventh round as soon as Iran is ready while also calling for the immediate release of American citizens detained in Iran. In response to Aragchi's remarks, State Department spokesman Ned Price categorically rejected the claim, denied there was already an agreement on a swap, and said the US was prepared to continue talks on prisoners even while waiting for the resumption of the nuclear negotiations. "These comments are an outrageous effort to deflect blame for the current impasse on a potential mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA," Price said. "We stand ready to return to Vienna to complete work on a mutual return to the JCPOA once Iran has made the necessary decisions." Price called Aragchi's reference to the possible imminent release of 10 prisoners on all sides 'just another cruel effort to raise the hopes of their families.' "If Iran were truly interested in making a humanitarian gesture, it would simply release the detainees immediately," he said.

US hits Iran for delay in nuclear, prisoner swap talks

Saudi Arabia's deputy defence minister on Tuesday became the highest-ranking Saudi envoy to visit Washington since Joe Biden became president in January, and held talks with senior officials on the Yemen war and threats from Iran. 
 
The minister, Prince Khalid bin Salman, is the younger brother of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country's de facto ruler.

A White House statement on the minister's meeting with national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Sullivan "emphasised the importance of progress in advancing human rights in the Kingdom." 
 
The two officials discussed the US&nbsp;partnership with Saudi Arabia, regional security and "the US&nbsp;commitment to help Saudi Arabia defend its territory as it faces attacks from Iranian-aligned groups." 
 
The prince also met with Colin Kahl, the US&nbsp;defence undersecretary for policy, and the two discussed 'efforts to end the war in Yemen and the shared US-Saudi commitment to counter Iran's destabilising activities' and other issues, the Pentagon said. 
 
The meetings were to give Saudi Arabia a sense of how relations with the United States have shifted from the pro-Saudi policies of former Republican President Donald Trump. 
 
A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Iran-aligned Houthi group ousted the country's government from Sanaa. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system. 
 
Yemen President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government is now in Aden, though Hadi is based in Riyadh, the Saudi capital. Tens of thousands of Yemenis, mostly civilians, have died in six years of war and millions are on the brink of famine. 
 
Psaki said talks would also cover Saudi defence needs. 
 
"They'll discuss the longstanding partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia, regional security and the US&nbsp;commitment to help Saudi Arabia defend its territory as it faces attacks from Iranian-aligned groups," she said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia's deputy defence minister on Tuesday became the highest-ranking Saudi envoy to visit Washington since Joe Biden became president in January, and held talks with senior officials on the Yemen war and threats from Iran.

Saudi Arabia's deputy defence minister on Tuesday became the highest-ranking Saudi envoy to visit Washington since Joe Biden became president in January, and held talks with senior officials on the Yemen war and threats from Iran. The minister, Prince Khalid bin Salman, is the younger brother of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country's de facto ruler. A White House statement on the minister's meeting with national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Sullivan "emphasised the importance of progress in advancing human rights in the Kingdom." The two officials discussed the US partnership with Saudi Arabia, regional security and "the US commitment to help Saudi Arabia defend its territory as it faces attacks from Iranian-aligned groups." The prince also met with Colin Kahl, the US defence undersecretary for policy, and the two discussed 'efforts to end the war in Yemen and the shared US-Saudi commitment to counter Iran's destabilising activities' and other issues, the Pentagon said. The meetings were to give Saudi Arabia a sense of how relations with the United States have shifted from the pro-Saudi policies of former Republican President Donald Trump. A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Iran-aligned Houthi group ousted the country's government from Sanaa. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system. Yemen President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi's government is now in Aden, though Hadi is based in Riyadh, the Saudi capital. Tens of thousands of Yemenis, mostly civilians, have died in six years of war and millions are on the brink of famine. Psaki said talks would also cover Saudi defence needs. "They'll discuss the longstanding partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia, regional security and the US commitment to help Saudi Arabia defend its territory as it faces attacks from Iranian-aligned groups," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi official in US for talks on Yemen, Iran

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces. 
 
Hundreds of Afghan security force members have fled into neighbouring Tajikistan in the face of Taliban advances since the United States vacated its main Afghan base, centrepiece of US&nbsp;and NATO might for almost two decades in the country, as part of a plan to withdraw all foreign troops by September&nbsp;11. 
 
While the transfer of Bagram Air Base to the Afghan army added momentum to a Taliban drive to seize control over new districts, Taliban leaders renewed the long stalled talks with Afghan government envoys in Qatar's capital Doha last week. 
 
"The peace talks and process will be accelerated in the coming days ... and they are expected to enter an important stage,&nbsp;naturally it will be about peace plans," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told Reuters on Monday. 
 
"Possibly it will take a month to reach that stage when both sides will share their written peace plan," he said, adding that the latest round of talks were at a critical juncture. 
 
"Although we (Taliban) have the upper hand on the battlefield, we are very serious about talks and dialogue." 
 
The upsurge in fighting and the flight of thousands of members of the tattered Afghan security forces have raised grave doubt about the US-backed peace negotiations, which began last year under the then-President Donald Trump's administration. 
 
Responding to a request for comment on the Taliban representative's remarks, a spokesperson for the US&nbsp;State Department said a negotiated settlement was the only way to end 40 years of war in Afghanistan. 
 
"We urge the sides to engage in serious negotiations to determine a political roadmap for Afghanistan’s future that leads to a just and durable settlement, the official said. 
 
"The world will not accept the imposition by force of a government in Afghanistan," the official added. "Legitimacy and assistance for any Afghan government can only be possible if that government has a basic respect for human rights."

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces.

The Taliban plan to present a written peace proposal to the Afghan government side as soon as next month, a spokesman for the Islamist insurgents said even as they make major territorial gains in the breach left by departing foreign forces. Hundreds of Afghan security force members have fled into neighbouring Tajikistan in the face of Taliban advances since the United States vacated its main Afghan base, centrepiece of US and NATO might for almost two decades in the country, as part of a plan to withdraw all foreign troops by September 11. While the transfer of Bagram Air Base to the Afghan army added momentum to a Taliban drive to seize control over new districts, Taliban leaders renewed the long stalled talks with Afghan government envoys in Qatar's capital Doha last week. "The peace talks and process will be accelerated in the coming days ... and they are expected to enter an important stage, naturally it will be about peace plans," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid told Reuters on Monday. "Possibly it will take a month to reach that stage when both sides will share their written peace plan," he said, adding that the latest round of talks were at a critical juncture. "Although we (Taliban) have the upper hand on the battlefield, we are very serious about talks and dialogue." The upsurge in fighting and the flight of thousands of members of the tattered Afghan security forces have raised grave doubt about the US-backed peace negotiations, which began last year under the then-President Donald Trump's administration. Responding to a request for comment on the Taliban representative's remarks, a spokesperson for the US State Department said a negotiated settlement was the only way to end 40 years of war in Afghanistan. "We urge the sides to engage in serious negotiations to determine a political roadmap for Afghanistan’s future that leads to a just and durable settlement, the official said. "The world will not accept the imposition by force of a government in Afghanistan," the official added. "Legitimacy and assistance for any Afghan government can only be possible if that government has a basic respect for human rights."

Taliban aim to present written peace plan at talks as soon as next month

Iran reported 'good progress' on Tuesday in talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia but said some of their disputes are complex and may take time to resolve. 
 
Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies continue to pressure Iran, which backs the opposite side in conflicts in the region, over its nuclear programme, which Tehran says is entirely peaceful, its ballistic missiles, and its support for militant groups. 
 
Iran has criticised the Gulf Arab states' close ties with Tehran's long-term foe Washington and moves by some of them to normalise relations with Israel, a country that Iran, which supports the Palestinians, does not recognise. 
 
"Good progress has been achieved in these talks ... In some cases, disputes may have complexities that take time to resolve," Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei told a news conference carried by state media. 
 
In a bid to contain tensions between them, Saudi Arabia and Iran began direct talks in April. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Iran reported 'good progress' on Tuesday in talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia but said some of their disputes are complex and may take time to resolve. Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies continue to pressure Iran, which backs the opposite side in conflicts in the region, over its nuclear programme, which Tehran says is entirely peaceful, its ballistic missiles, and its support for militant groups.

Iran reported 'good progress' on Tuesday in talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia but said some of their disputes are complex and may take time to resolve. Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies continue to pressure Iran, which backs the opposite side in conflicts in the region, over its nuclear programme, which Tehran says is entirely peaceful, its ballistic missiles, and its support for militant groups. Iran has criticised the Gulf Arab states' close ties with Tehran's long-term foe Washington and moves by some of them to normalise relations with Israel, a country that Iran, which supports the Palestinians, does not recognise. "Good progress has been achieved in these talks ... In some cases, disputes may have complexities that take time to resolve," Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei told a news conference carried by state media. In a bid to contain tensions between them, Saudi Arabia and Iran began direct talks in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran says Saudi talks progress but time needed to resolve disputes

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact. 
 
The standoff could delay plans to pump more oil through to the end of the year to cool oil prices that have soared to 2-1/2 year highs. 
 
Without a deal, the OPEC+ alliance could keep tighter restraints on output with oil prices now trading around $75 a barrel, more than 40% up this year. Consumers want more crude to aid a global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
The rise in oil prices is contributing to global inflation, slowing the economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis. 
 
OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and their allies, voted on Friday to increase output by around 2 million barrels per day (bpd) from August to December 2021 and to extend remaining cuts to the end of 2022, instead of ending in April 2022, OPEC+ sources said. 
 
The UAE agreed to releasing more oil into the market but refused to support the extension of the cuts. 
 
Talks resume on Monday, OPEC+ said in a statement. 
 
Responding to oil demand destruction caused by the COVID crisis, OPEC+ agreed last year to cut output by almost 10 million bpd from May 2020, with plans to phase out the curbs by the end of April 2022. Cuts now stand at about 5.8 million bpd. 
 
If the UAE blocks a deal, the remaining cuts would likely stay in place, although there is a slim chance the pact could fall apart and all countries could pump as much as they wanted. 
 
Alternatively, the group could agree to increase output to the end of 2021 but postpone discussion about extending the deal beyond April 2022. OPEC+ sources said UAE had proposed this. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact.

OPEC+ will resume talks on Monday after failing to reach a deal on oil output policy for a second day running on Friday because the United Arab Emirates blocked some aspects of the pact. The standoff could delay plans to pump more oil through to the end of the year to cool oil prices that have soared to 2-1/2 year highs. Without a deal, the OPEC+ alliance could keep tighter restraints on output with oil prices now trading around $75 a barrel, more than 40% up this year. Consumers want more crude to aid a global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in oil prices is contributing to global inflation, slowing the economic recovery from the coronavirus crisis. OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and their allies, voted on Friday to increase output by around 2 million barrels per day (bpd) from August to December 2021 and to extend remaining cuts to the end of 2022, instead of ending in April 2022, OPEC+ sources said. The UAE agreed to releasing more oil into the market but refused to support the extension of the cuts. Talks resume on Monday, OPEC+ said in a statement. Responding to oil demand destruction caused by the COVID crisis, OPEC+ agreed last year to cut output by almost 10 million bpd from May 2020, with plans to phase out the curbs by the end of April 2022. Cuts now stand at about 5.8 million bpd. If the UAE blocks a deal, the remaining cuts would likely stay in place, although there is a slim chance the pact could fall apart and all countries could pump as much as they wanted. Alternatively, the group could agree to increase output to the end of 2021 but postpone discussion about extending the deal beyond April 2022. OPEC+ sources said UAE had proposed this. (With inputs from agencies)

OPEC+ to resume oil policy talks on Monday after UAE roadblock

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