India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.&nbsp;

India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009.

The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative (DPR),&nbsp;both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be&nbsp;Deputy&nbsp;Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra.&nbsp;

Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic &amp; Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing.

With a strong Beijing connection, four&nbsp;diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018.&nbsp;

India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, &nbsp;Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police.

India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries.&nbsp;

It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021.

India will increase its diplomatic presence at its mission to the United Nations ahead of taking the role as a non-permanent member at UNSC from 1st January 2021. India will be appointing four more diplomats who will serve at the Indian mission to UN in New York viz. R Ravindran IFS 1999, Pratik Mathur IFS 2007, Ashish Sharma IFS 2009, Rajesh Parihar IFS 2009. The mission is led by Ambassador T S Tirumurti who is India's top diplomat at the Indian mission to UN--India's Permanent Representative(PR) and Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR), both of which are Ambassador level ranks. R Ravindra currently Joint Secretary (Central and West Africa) will be the Political Coordinator for UNSC matter and his designation will be Deputy Permanent Representative. All UNSC member countries have political coordinators, which in India's case will be--R Ravindra. Pratik Mathur is currently Deputy Secretary PMO, Ashish Sharma is in protocol division of MEA and Rajesh Parihar is first secretary (Economic & Commerce) at the Indian mission in Bejing. With a strong Beijing connection, four diplomats -- Deputy envoy Nagaraj Naidu, Madhu Sudan, Prateek Mathur and Siddharth Malik, are Mandarin speakers. Madhu Sudan was Prime Minister Modi's interpreter at the informal Wuhan summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April of 2018. India has 14 diplomats at its mission in the UN and with the addition of four, strength will go up to 18. Other Indian diplomats are Amarnath, Mayank Singh, Vidisha Maitra, Yedla Umashankar, Deepak Misra, Paulomi Tripathi, Mijito Vinito, Gopal K Wadhwa with Col. Sandeep Kapoor looking into Peacekeeping and Thirugnana Sambandan into Peacekeeping issues relating to Police. India got elected to the UNSC in June with the overwhelming support of 184 votes out of 192 countries. It was elected unopposed, as New Delhi was the sole candidate for the Asia-Pacific seat. As the founding member of the world body, India has already served seven times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

India to send 4 diplomats to New York as it takes seat at UNSC high table

India has once again raised the issue of cross-border terrorism at the UNSC. New Delhi described itself as "a victim of terrorism" sponsored from across the Pakistani border. Watch report.

India at UNSC | "We are a victim of terror" | Calls out Pak for harbouring terrorists

The world has been facing an omnipresent enemy called terrorism. India recently raised the issue at United Nations Security Council. Major General (Retd) Shashi Asthana explains what this means.

Video opinion: Terrorism and the global response to it

A team of United Nations Security Council in its report has said that Islamic State (IS) is working in the Maldives with "network of supporters".

The monitoring team of the UNSC's 1267 committee which is responsible for listing global terrorists in its reports to President of the council highlighted IS's role in the Indian Ocean Island country.

The report said,"The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K works with a network of supporters in the Maldives"

On 15th of April five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack in Mahibadhoo harbour in an attack claimed by Islamic State.

The IS claimed it to be the first attack in the country.

The UNSC report said,"according to member state information, the attack was a retaliation against government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking". Adding,"member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives"

The attack was extensively covered in IS media network in South Asia. The responsibility of the attack was taken via Al Naba, which is IS's weekly newsletter. The claim of responsibility was even translated to Dhivehi.

A team of United Nations Security Council in its report has said that Islamic State (IS) is working in the Maldives with "network of supporters". The monitoring team of the UNSC's 1267 committee which is responsible for listing global terrorists in its reports to President of the council highlighted IS's role in the Indian Ocean Island country.

A team of United Nations Security Council in its report has said that Islamic State (IS) is working in the Maldives with "network of supporters". The monitoring team of the UNSC's 1267 committee which is responsible for listing global terrorists in its reports to President of the council highlighted IS's role in the Indian Ocean Island country. The report said,"The monitoring team was informed that ISIL-K works with a network of supporters in the Maldives" On 15th of April five government speedboats were damaged in an arson attack in Mahibadhoo harbour in an attack claimed by Islamic State. The IS claimed it to be the first attack in the country. The UNSC report said,"according to member state information, the attack was a retaliation against government investigations into extremism and drug trafficking". Adding,"member states remain concerned about the radicalisation and recruitment in the Maldives" The attack was extensively covered in IS media network in South Asia. The responsibility of the attack was taken via Al Naba, which is IS's weekly newsletter. The claim of responsibility was even translated to Dhivehi.

Islamic State working with 'network of supporters' in the Maldives: UNSC report

After months of deadlock, the United Nations Security Council has finally adopted a resolution to combat COVID-19. The resolution was drafted by France and Tunisia. Watch report.

UNSC to meet at 8 PM IST: Lauds role of women in COVID-19 response

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term.

This is for the 8th time that India has been elected to UNSC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/India%20vows%20to%20'overcome%20fault%20lines'%20as%20it%20takes%20charge%20at%20UNSC">Also read: India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC</a>

India hopes to utilize its eighth term to additionally construct its case for a permanent seat in United Nations Security Council, something that it has been pushing throughout recent years.

India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012.

The UNSC consists of 15 members: 10 non-permanent and five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the UK and US.

The 10 non-permanent seats are distributed on a regional basis as follows: five for African and Asian states; one for the Eastern European States; two for the Latin American and Caribbean States; and two for Western European and other States.

(With inputs from agencies)

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term.

Registering a comfortable victory, India got elected on Thursday as a non-permanent member of the 15 member United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from the Asia-Pacific category for 2021-22 term. This is for the 8th time that India has been elected to UNSC. Also read: India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC India hopes to utilize its eighth term to additionally construct its case for a permanent seat in United Nations Security Council, something that it has been pushing throughout recent years. India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the Council for the years 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012. The UNSC consists of 15 members: 10 non-permanent and five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the UK and US. The 10 non-permanent seats are distributed on a regional basis as follows: five for African and Asian states; one for the Eastern European States; two for the Latin American and Caribbean States; and two for Western European and other States. (With inputs from agencies)

India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council

India, on May 5 listed out its priorities as it is all set to be elected as a non-permanent seat for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) from January 2021. India stated that it will help "overcome faultline" in a world in which the "normal process of international governance" has come under "strain as frictions have occurred.''

India's 5 point agenda at UNSC: Vows to 'overcome fault lines'

The former President of the United Nations Security Council has said "differences over the role of the World Health Organization" has "stalled" any outcomes over COVID resolution at the core UN body.

The former President of the United Nations Security Council has said "differences over the role of the World Health Organization" has "stalled" any outcomes over COVID resolution at the core UN body. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from New York, Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations José Singer Weisinger said that "Security Council can’t remain silent" and "cannot remain inactive towards the response." While the first case of COVID was first reported China's Wuhan in December, it was only during the Presidency of the Dominican Republic in April that it was formally discussed. President of UNSC decides the agenda of the body and it is president for one month. All 15 countries rotationally become the president of UNSC each month, with Estonia being the President for the current month. WION: What has been the key outcome of your Presidency of UNSC for April Month? Jose Singer: We believe the most important outcome of the Dominican Presidency of the UN Security Council in April 2020, was transparency. From the very beginning of our Presidency, our goal was to make the Council’s discussions on Open VTCs, public. Halfway through the month, after reaching consensus from members, we managed to live feed, through the UN Web TV platform, the entirety of the Open VTCs, including briefers and UN Security Council Member statements. Additionally, as another example of a milestone, a historical moment took place on April 21st. For the first time in history, the Council held a public online discussion (Open Debate). In this case, the issue discussed was the protection of civilians from conflict-induced hunger. Furthermore, we were able to reach consensus on: 1) 5 Press Elements (MINUSMA, Covid-19, Yemen, Great Lakes and UNAMID) 2) 2 Press Statements (Colombia and Yemen) 3) 1 PRST (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict: Protecting Civilians from Conflict Induced Hunger) WION: Finally, talks started on COVID, what has been the progress? How soon we can see consensus on COVID resolutions? Jose Singer: The Security Council has been holding discussions around the possible adoption of a resolution on COVID-19. Last May 5th, the Security Council held a closed consultation on this issue to discuss the way forward. At this moment progress has been achieved throughout different areas that a resolution of this kind should address from a peace and security angle. However, as you are aware there are differences regarding the role of the World Health Organization and these differences, in part, have stalled the process for a while. Tunisia and France as the leads on this resolution have been working tenaciously in order to arrive at an agreement. The reality is that the Security Council can’t remain silent it cannot remain inactive towards the response. The members of the Security Council are on the same line in this respect, which brings an environment of deep commitment to arrive at a consensus in the coming days, but as I said, we would have to continue engaging and hope for an expedited agreement. WION: How do u see India's role when it comes coordinated action on COVID, they have sent your country medicines too? Jose Singer: From our point of view, India is currently an important key player in the present global order, and we are confident it will continue to do so through these hard and unprecedented times. After the COVID-19 crisis hit our nation, the Dominican Government requested our Missions around the world for some assistance and cooperation, from friendly countries and India rose to the occasion. Showing its unique solidarity and friendship towards our people, it was one of the first respondents to our request, not only including us in the 13 countries able to purchase some of the medicines being used to treat this virus, but also donating 200,000 tablets to our country. WION: How has UNSC adopted tech, because it was under your presidency they started meeting regularly via video conference. Jose Singer: Initially, the platform was a bit unstable and we were all trying to figure things out, including new working methods that would allow the Council to continue its work remotely. In this regard, the Dominican Presidency expresses its deepest congratulations and appreciation to the team of hard-working technical personnel of the United Nations. Without their tireless efforts to make possible all the technological arrangements, we would have not been able to proceed with our ambitious plans of keeping the work of the Council as open, transparent and fluid as possible, during the uncertain times that the global COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly brought along.

Covid-19: UNSC can’t remain inactive towards the response, says José Singer Weisinger

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council&nbsp;(UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame."

At the virtual press conference by Permanent Representative of Estonia to the United Nations Ambassador Sven Jürgenson said, "it is really a shame we have not been able to fulfill&nbsp;our responsibility. There are stumbling blocks, the situation is blocked at the moment, but the talks are continuing, continuing at a high level. And I hope we come out of the gridlock."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-lockdown-extension-will-lead-to-a-faster-recovery-says-top-economist-arvind-panagariya-296260">EXCLUSIVE: Lockdown extension will lead to a faster recovery, says top economist Arvind Panagariya</a>

Estonia has been pushing for COVID-19 meeting and a press statement since March but could not get support because few permanent members of UNSC, notably China had some issues regarding it. The matter finally came up on April 9 under the presidency of the Dominican Republic and now a Franco-Tunisian draft resolution is being discussed.

"It is shame that we have not able to take leadership. There are certain reasons, Estonia has been one of the most active in pushing, pushing very very strongly for more than a month to be there and for the security council to stand were it should stand", the envoy said.

Highlighting the difference, Sven Jürgenson said, "There is no political agreement especially among 2 members of the council and we are expecting to see development and everyone wants council to move forward".

The China-US tiff continues to block the move at UNSC and with Washington and Bejing publicly involved in a war of words, no one knows, when any consensus emerges.&nbsp;

Jürgenson explained, "Still no consensus...(due to) some security council member state...work continues and hope differences will be solved. I do feel as a member of the council UNSC should be active on the matter"

Asked about another initiative on COVID-19, he said, "it would be stuck exactly with the same problem"

United Nations, especially the core body--United Nations Security Council is found missing during the COVID-19 crisis. It was G20 that took the responsibility for a global strategy to deal with the crisis and leaders of the group&nbsp;in March did a video conference to chalk out an action plan to deal with the challenge.&nbsp;

The idea of the meet was discussed by Indian PM Narendra Modi with his G20 counterparts including the chair of G20 Saudi Arabia. PM Modi had in the month of March taken the global lead in the call for a video conference of SAARC countries for a common approach to deal with the crisis.

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame.

Estonia, the country which will chair the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of May, has termed the body's inability to come out with COVID-19 resolution as a "shame." At the virtual press conference by Permanent Representative of Estonia to the United Nations Ambassador Sven Jürgenson said, "it is really a shame we have not been able to fulfill our responsibility. There are stumbling blocks, the situation is blocked at the moment, but the talks are continuing, continuing at a high level. And I hope we come out of the gridlock." Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Lockdown extension will lead to a faster recovery, says top economist Arvind Panagariya Estonia has been pushing for COVID-19 meeting and a press statement since March but could not get support because few permanent members of UNSC, notably China had some issues regarding it. The matter finally came up on April 9 under the presidency of the Dominican Republic and now a Franco-Tunisian draft resolution is being discussed. "It is shame that we have not able to take leadership. There are certain reasons, Estonia has been one of the most active in pushing, pushing very very strongly for more than a month to be there and for the security council to stand were it should stand", the envoy said. Highlighting the difference, Sven Jürgenson said, "There is no political agreement especially among 2 members of the council and we are expecting to see development and everyone wants council to move forward". The China-US tiff continues to block the move at UNSC and with Washington and Bejing publicly involved in a war of words, no one knows, when any consensus emerges. Jürgenson explained, "Still no consensus...(due to) some security council member state...work continues and hope differences will be solved. I do feel as a member of the council UNSC should be active on the matter" Asked about another initiative on COVID-19, he said, "it would be stuck exactly with the same problem" United Nations, especially the core body--United Nations Security Council is found missing during the COVID-19 crisis. It was G20 that took the responsibility for a global strategy to deal with the crisis and leaders of the group in March did a video conference to chalk out an action plan to deal with the challenge. The idea of the meet was discussed by Indian PM Narendra Modi with his G20 counterparts including the chair of G20 Saudi Arabia. PM Modi had in the month of March taken the global lead in the call for a video conference of SAARC countries for a common approach to deal with the crisis.

New UNSC Prez says council's inability to come out with coronavirus resolution a 'shame'

The President of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the ambassador of the Dominican Republic, José Singer told WION that an urgent global response is needed to tackle the global coronavirus crisis. He added that the UNSC has an important role to play. The Dominican Republic is the chair of the council for the current month and decides the agenda of the top United Nations body. Speaking from New York, Ambassador Singer said, "COVID-19 is racing its way around the world. There’s growing concern about the unprecedented magnitude of its outbreak globally and its impact on international peace and security."

WION Exclusive conversation with UNSC President José Singer

The United Nations Security Council will hold a closed session to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, the first time the powerful UN organ is holding a meeting on coronavirus that has killed more than 74,000 people. However, the question that arises is how will China and Russia access their veto powers at UNSC. Will they vote against the resolution?

How will China and Russia access their veto powers at UNSC?

The United Nations Security Council held a closed session to discuss the pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19), first time the powerful UN organ held a meeting on Coronavirus that has killed people in millions. But, it looks like, UNSC discussion on pandemic COVID-19 ended up without any concrete outcome.

UNSC discussion on pandemic COVID-19 ended up without any concrete outcome

The United Nations Security Council held a closed session to discuss the pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19), first time the powerful UN organ held a meeting on Coronavirus that has killed people in millions.

UNSC discusses pandemic COVID-19, all 15 members attend meeting via video conference

The United Nations Security Council will hold a closed session on Thursday to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, the first time the powerful UN organ is holding a meeting on coronavirus that has killed more than 74,000 people

UNSC to discuss coronavirus pandemic: Will there be a UNSC resolution?

This is not an exception that China is trying to take a hold of the United Nations (UN), one post at a time.&nbsp;

Former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping had a motto, "Hide your strength. Bide your time." However, the current leader, Xi Jinping does not people in that in that.

The Chinese President wants to project strength, both at home and abroad!

China is flexing its diplomatic muscle by going after the top jobs at UN agencies.

It is installing its diplomats in key positions across UN agencies.

The Director-General of the UN food and agriculture organisation is now Chinese. Qu Dongyu had defeated an American to win the top job.

China is entering another major wing of the UN this year. The board of auditors they keep an eye on the account books of the world body.

India's CAG Rajiv Mehrishi's term will expire in three months.

The Auditor-General of the national audit office of China will take charge in July.

The UN has 15 specialised agencies out of which four are led by China while it has exerted its influence on many others.

These jobs may not boost China's public profile, but, they give Beijing the ability to influence key decisions in the un ecosystem.

Unlike in the past, China is voting actively on key Security Council resolutions.

Since 2011, China has exercised the veto nine times.

This shift in strategy has a direct connection with Xi Jinping's rise to power. The Chinese President wants his country to play a big role in the UN.

And, as a result, China is now the second-largest contributor to the regular budget of the UN. It has become a leader in UN peacekeeping missions.

In 1990, it had just five soldiers deployed in the operations and by Mid 2015, this surged to over three thousand.

Even today, China has over two thousand troops in un peacekeeping efforts.

These contributions come with strings attached as they legitimise the dictatorship of the Communist Party and limit the independence of global platforms against Chinese pressure.

&nbsp;The UN has long been the handmaiden of the United States, now it is being taken over by China, one post at a time.&nbsp;

This is not an exception that China is trying to take a hold of the United Nations (UN), one post at a time. Former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping had a motto, "Hide your strength.

This is not an exception that China is trying to take a hold of the United Nations (UN), one post at a time. Former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping had a motto, "Hide your strength. Bide your time." However, the current leader, Xi Jinping does not people in that in that. The Chinese President wants to project strength, both at home and abroad! China is flexing its diplomatic muscle by going after the top jobs at UN agencies. It is installing its diplomats in key positions across UN agencies. The Director-General of the UN food and agriculture organisation is now Chinese. Qu Dongyu had defeated an American to win the top job. China is entering another major wing of the UN this year. The board of auditors they keep an eye on the account books of the world body. India's CAG Rajiv Mehrishi's term will expire in three months. The Auditor-General of the national audit office of China will take charge in July. The UN has 15 specialised agencies out of which four are led by China while it has exerted its influence on many others. These jobs may not boost China's public profile, but, they give Beijing the ability to influence key decisions in the un ecosystem. Unlike in the past, China is voting actively on key Security Council resolutions. Since 2011, China has exercised the veto nine times. This shift in strategy has a direct connection with Xi Jinping's rise to power. The Chinese President wants his country to play a big role in the UN. And, as a result, China is now the second-largest contributor to the regular budget of the UN. It has become a leader in UN peacekeeping missions. In 1990, it had just five soldiers deployed in the operations and by Mid 2015, this surged to over three thousand. Even today, China has over two thousand troops in un peacekeeping efforts. These contributions come with strings attached as they legitimise the dictatorship of the Communist Party and limit the independence of global platforms against Chinese pressure. The UN has long been the handmaiden of the United States, now it is being taken over by China, one post at a time.

China extends its influence over United Nations Security Council, one post at a time!

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has called for an emergency session on Syria, as tensions between Syrian and Turkish forces are escalating. In this segment, know what can be a possible outcome of UN emergency meet on Syria.

What can be possible outcome from UN emergency meet on Syria?

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has called for an emergency session on Syria, as tensions between Syrian and Turkish forces are escalating.

UNSC calls emergency session on Syria

India's Ministry of External Affairs has responded to China's attempt to raise the Kashmir issue at the United Nations Security Council. MEA spokesperson Ravish Kumar said that Pakistan has misused the UN Security Council's stage through China. He added that the issue of Kashmir has to be solved bilaterally by India and Pakistan.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan peddling baseless allegations, says India MEA spokesperson Ravish Kumar

A proposal by China and Russia to ease UN&nbsp;sanctions on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-biegun-to-north-korea-were-here-you-know-how-to-reach-us-268526">North Korea</a> increases pressure on the United States and signals what is the likely end of unified efforts to persuade Pyongyang to give up its growing nuclear and missile arsenal.

On Monday China and Russia proposed the United Nations Security Council lift a ban on North Korea exporting statues, seafood, and textiles, and ease restrictions on infrastructure projects and North Koreans working overseas, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters.

The plan comes at a crucial moment just weeks before the deadline set by North Korea for Washington to offer more concessions and highlights deepening divides over how to engage with North Korea.

Russia and China, which both wield veto power on the Security Council, were key votes in imposing the sanctions in recent years under the "maximum pressure" campaign championed by US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-democrats-seek-testimony-from-bolton-and-other-trump-aides-268609">Donald Trump</a>'s administration.

The United States says it would be premature for the UN&nbsp;to consider lifting sanctions right now and has called for North Korea to return to the negotiating table.

Since North Korea and the United States established a detente in 2018, however, both Moscow and Beijing have increasingly voiced support for easing sanctions. Now, the official proposal represents a new level of public pressure on the United States, analysts said.

Last week, China's ambassador to the UN&nbsp;said a major cause of the deadlock and rising tensions was a failure to respond to "positive steps" taken by North Korea toward denuclearisation.

"The Russia-China initiative at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-security-council-to-meet-over-north-korea-on-wednesday-at-us-request-267389">UNSC</a> is likely coordinated with Pyongyang as the proposal reflects North Korea's demands to be rewarded for the concessions it has already taken," said Artyom Lukin, a professor at Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. "Pyongyang's recent threats of escalatory action are now backed by the Sino-Russian diplomatic offensive."

China and Russia are effectively undercutting the United States’ current strategy on North Korea, he said. "Pyongyang has again demonstrated its unrivaled capacity to exploit the rivalry between great powers."

China hopes the UN&nbsp;Security Council forms a consensus on the draft resolution, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday, urging North Korean and the United States to keep talking.

Other analysts noted Beijing and Moscow have shown increasing unity on the issue of security on the Korean peninsula.

Sanctions relief is crucial for both China's Northeast Area Revitalisation Plan as well as Russia's economic interests in the Russian Far East, said Anthony Rinna, a specialist in Korea-Russia relations at Sino-NK, a website that analyses the region.

"Recently the Chinese government has stated that sanctions relief for North Korea is imperative, and Beijing has a much higher chance than Moscow of being taken seriously in Washington," he said. "Furthermore, sanctions are a part of the joint Sino-Russian action plan for peace on the Korean Peninsula."&nbsp;

The call to lift sanctions affecting rail infrastructure and foreign workers, for example, are two areas that are key economic interests for Moscow, Rinna added.

North Korea has set a year-end deadline for Washington to make concessions like easing sanctions. Otherwise, leader Kim Jong Un has said he may be forced to choose an unspecified "new path."

China and Russia appear concerned about what North Korea's next steps may be, and the call for sanctions relief is a way to try to avoid a return to the nuclear weapons tests and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launches that led the two countries to join the United States and its allies in imposing the strict sanctions, analysts said.

"Moscow generally feels that pressure is the wrong tack to take with North Korea, yet if Pyongyang engages in more provocations in the coming year this could be a serious test for both China and Russia's tolerance of North Korea," Rinna said.

China, meanwhile, appears to be wielding ever-greater economic clout over North Korea.

A recent report by a South Korean trade association found China's proportion of the North's overall external trade rose to 91.8 percent last year, compared with 17.3 percent in 2001. Thousands of Chinese tourists provide a further, much-needed economic lifeline.

Behind the scenes, there are reports that unofficial trade between China and North Korea has also increased.

"This could give Pyongyang pause if they're pondering a hardline approach for next year," said Andray Abrahamian, a visiting scholar at George Mason University Korea. "That said, they traditionally have pushed back hard against supposed Chinese leverage, aware that China is willing to punish North Korea."

Daniel DePetris, a fellow at Defense Priorities, a Washington-based think tank, said he hopes Russia and China teaming up could keep Kim restrained for the time being.

"We don’t know what China and Russia’s red-lines are, but it’s reasonably safe to assume another ICBM or nuclear test would force both countries to recalculate its current position," he said.

A proposal by China and Russia to ease UN sanctions on North Korea increases pressure on the United States and signals what is the likely end of unified efforts to persuade Pyongyang to give up its growing nuclear and missile arsenal.

A proposal by China and Russia to ease UN sanctions on North Korea increases pressure on the United States and signals what is the likely end of unified efforts to persuade Pyongyang to give up its growing nuclear and missile arsenal. On Monday China and Russia proposed the United Nations Security Council lift a ban on North Korea exporting statues, seafood, and textiles, and ease restrictions on infrastructure projects and North Koreans working overseas, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters. The plan comes at a crucial moment just weeks before the deadline set by North Korea for Washington to offer more concessions and highlights deepening divides over how to engage with North Korea. Russia and China, which both wield veto power on the Security Council, were key votes in imposing the sanctions in recent years under the "maximum pressure" campaign championed by US President Donald Trump's administration. The United States says it would be premature for the UN to consider lifting sanctions right now and has called for North Korea to return to the negotiating table. Since North Korea and the United States established a detente in 2018, however, both Moscow and Beijing have increasingly voiced support for easing sanctions. Now, the official proposal represents a new level of public pressure on the United States, analysts said. Last week, China's ambassador to the UN said a major cause of the deadlock and rising tensions was a failure to respond to "positive steps" taken by North Korea toward denuclearisation. "The Russia-China initiative at UNSC is likely coordinated with Pyongyang as the proposal reflects North Korea's demands to be rewarded for the concessions it has already taken," said Artyom Lukin, a professor at Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. "Pyongyang's recent threats of escalatory action are now backed by the Sino-Russian diplomatic offensive." China and Russia are effectively undercutting the United States’ current strategy on North Korea, he said. "Pyongyang has again demonstrated its unrivaled capacity to exploit the rivalry between great powers." China hopes the UN Security Council forms a consensus on the draft resolution, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday, urging North Korean and the United States to keep talking. Other analysts noted Beijing and Moscow have shown increasing unity on the issue of security on the Korean peninsula. Sanctions relief is crucial for both China's Northeast Area Revitalisation Plan as well as Russia's economic interests in the Russian Far East, said Anthony Rinna, a specialist in Korea-Russia relations at Sino-NK, a website that analyses the region. "Recently the Chinese government has stated that sanctions relief for North Korea is imperative, and Beijing has a much higher chance than Moscow of being taken seriously in Washington," he said. "Furthermore, sanctions are a part of the joint Sino-Russian action plan for peace on the Korean Peninsula." The call to lift sanctions affecting rail infrastructure and foreign workers, for example, are two areas that are key economic interests for Moscow, Rinna added. North Korea has set a year-end deadline for Washington to make concessions like easing sanctions. Otherwise, leader Kim Jong Un has said he may be forced to choose an unspecified "new path." China and Russia appear concerned about what North Korea's next steps may be, and the call for sanctions relief is a way to try to avoid a return to the nuclear weapons tests and intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launches that led the two countries to join the United States and its allies in imposing the strict sanctions, analysts said. "Moscow generally feels that pressure is the wrong tack to take with North Korea, yet if Pyongyang engages in more provocations in the coming year this could be a serious test for both China and Russia's tolerance of North Korea," Rinna said. China, meanwhile, appears to be wielding ever-greater economic clout over North Korea. A recent report by a South Korean trade association found China's proportion of the North's overall external trade rose to 91.8 percent last year, compared with 17.3 percent in 2001. Thousands of Chinese tourists provide a further, much-needed economic lifeline. Behind the scenes, there are reports that unofficial trade between China and North Korea has also increased. "This could give Pyongyang pause if they're pondering a hardline approach for next year," said Andray Abrahamian, a visiting scholar at George Mason University Korea. "That said, they traditionally have pushed back hard against supposed Chinese leverage, aware that China is willing to punish North Korea." Daniel DePetris, a fellow at Defense Priorities, a Washington-based think tank, said he hopes Russia and China teaming up could keep Kim restrained for the time being. "We don’t know what China and Russia’s red-lines are, but it’s reasonably safe to assume another ICBM or nuclear test would force both countries to recalculate its current position," he said.

US led pressure fractures as China, Russia push for North Korea sanctions relief

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person. He also spoke on UNSC reforms, issue of terrorism. WION: India sent a young diplomat Vidisha Maitra to reply to Pakistan using the “right of reply” option. What was the intent behind it? Syed Akbaruddin: You know, we are a country with a tradition, a country with a very consistent approach. We also know Pakistan and its approach very well. So if its focus is on one issue, and this issue with which we are very familiar with, we always field our young diplomats who are confident, who reflect a new India, who have the ability to articulate India’s position in very nuanced manner but also very forcefully. They bring to the table the zest and the energy of the young and an understanding of the issues which is historical in nature. It is a tradition for us to field a young officer to clearly indicate and articulate India’s consistent position. WION: How do see the speech of Pakistani PM from the UNGA podium? Syed Akbaruddin: So, India’s articulation across the UN was on themes that was listed by the President of the General Assembly. If other countries want to stray away from that it is their choice. UN is a place where people work in partnerships. Partnerships can be forged on issues of common interest, not on individual interest. So if Pakistan wants to project an issue of individual interest, this is their choice, they wasted it, as you said. WION: What was PM Modi’s big message from his speech at UNGA? Syed Akbaruddin: Global development is sustainable development. Climate action is a key part of that development. PM Modi has made it clear that India’s ambition levels for sustainable development far exceeded with what was thought of even a decade ago. PM’s mention that from the high target we have already set off in terms of renewable energy of 175 GWs, we are now moving to a target of more than 400 GW. That is considerable, similarly on climate action, on whole range of front we are active, including working with the UN, we have set up Gandhi Solar park. Globally we are trying to work we partners to form a collation for disaster resilient infrastructure, so we are working in multifaceted ways, in different ways as well as doing our focus against climate action in India. Watch video: × WION: India sets record in the number of bilaterals held. Syed Akbaruddin: Never before have we been intensely engaged in a manner that we did during this week. PM had 17 bilateral engagements and number of plurilateral level, we have engaged in leaders levels in an unprecedented manner. For the first time, we have plurilateral meetings of India engaging with regions. It has never been done before. For the first summit between India and CARICOM was held. The CARICOM was, we all are familiar with there cricketing abilities. But there are a lot more commonalities between CARICOM and India. Similarly, Indopacific has become a major issue of political importance. This was the first effort of India engaging with Pacific countries on the sidelines of UNGA. In addition, Foreign Minister Jaishankar engaged in as many as 40+ bilateral meetings and a host of plurilateral meetings—The brick, the SAARC, G4, etc. MoS MEA was engaged with the NAM, the commonwealth, the G77. So I told you it is unprecedented in its intensity, in its expanse, in its focus. It is an expression of India’s willingness, and expansiveness to embrace the world and multilateralism. WION: What were the key takeaways for the world? Syed Akbaruddin: Key takeaway is that India is reaching out to the world in a peaceful and harmonious manner. It is an outreach which is extensive. Its an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is all embracive. WION: How big is the issue of terror at the UN? What is the world doing about it? Syed Akbaruddin: There are two ways. One is the normative way of working towards a normative agreement on the issues of terrorism and that is the convention. But there is action-oriented way and that way has progressed and it has progressed considerably because terrorism is considered antithetical to everything that UN stands for or, countries in UN stand for and they have progressed in many, many practical ways to counter terrorism through UNSC resolutions and resolutions through other bodies. So, it depends on how you see it. Normative efforts have been stalled but practical efforts continue. For example this year, you see it for the first time, an attack on Indian paramilitary troops was condemned by the United Nations. It has never happened before. Similarly, after a period of 10 years, Masood Azhar was listed as a terrorist individual. All these things show on the practical front we are moving ahead. And new areas are emerging and how do we tackle the promotion of hate speech and violent extremism and terrorism through cyberspace. There was a meeting of leaders, where they focused on efforts we need to do to prevent the use of internet and cyberspace for promoting violent extremist narrative. This is a new theme and was led by the king of Jordan and Christchurch call countries and President of France made special mention of India’s participation in this and PM Modi’s interest in this and so this is growing area of convergence. WION: How hopeful are you about UNSC reforms? Syed Akbaruddin: We have to understand that the global situation today is one of great volatility. It is one where things are not being done. The world is changing and it is changing dramatically and exponentially. UNSC has been resistant to change. Organizations that don’t change, may become less and less effective. It is a call for them to take, do they want to be relevant to the issues of the day, to addressing and resolving the primary issues that impact global peace and security or other ways will be found. Contemporary reality has to be adjusted. It is the norm in every segment of life for example, in business, companies dominated 70 or 100 years ago are not dominant today. That is the law of nature, it will happen with time but how it happens, when it happens, the situation may arrive. Crisis always required to change. Today there is a crisis, UNSC can’t act on whole hosts of issues. People are bypassing it. The last big institutional change was on the basis of the cataclysmic event. Change happens, sometimes by chance, it happens in ways you do not understand, but it will happen.

We field young diplomats to articulate new India's position: Syed Akbaruddin speaks to WION on India's right to reply

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/high-drama-at-saarc-meet-as-pakistans-foreign-minister-qureshi-boycotts-jaishankars-statement-252290">Pakistan</a> has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps.

Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">rising tensions between India and Pakistan</a>.

"Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a&nbsp;statement.

Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a&nbsp;response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot.

"Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added.

On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into <a href="wionews.com/world/pakistan-called-out-by-us-for-staying-mum-over-chinas-treatment-of-muslims-252323">Pakistan</a> to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then,&nbsp;tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.&nbsp;

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan. "Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a statement. Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot. "Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). "It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added. On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then, tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.

Pakistan invites United Nations Security Council permanent members to inspect terror camps

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over a threat to international peace and security. This is after U.S. announces its plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles.

Russia, China seek UNSC meeting on US missile developments

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters.

Moscow and Beijing want to convene the 15-member council under the agenda item "threats to international peace and security" and have requested that UN disarmament affairs chief Izumi Nakamitsu brief the body.

The Pentagon said on Monday it had tested a conventionally configured cruise missile that hit its target after more than 500 km (310 miles) of flight, the first such test since the United States pulled out Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).

US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Mark Esper was asked in a Fox News Channel interview on Wednesday whether the test was aimed at sending a message to China, Russia or North Korea and indicated that the main concern was China.&nbsp;

"We want to make sure that we, as we need to, can deter Chinese bad behaviour by having our capability to be able to strike at intermediate ranges," he said.

Esper said on a visit to Australia this month he was in favour of placing ground-launched, intermediate-range missiles in Asia relatively soon. 
Esper was also asked about a rocket test accident in Russia this month which U.S. officials believe was associated with the Kremlin`s hypersonic cruise missile program.

“They are trying to expand their strategic nuclear arsenal to deal with the United States," he said, adding that all such new weapons would have to be included in any future strategic arms reduction treaty.

"Right now Russia has possibly nuclear-tipped ... INF-range cruise missiles facing toward Europe, and that`s not a good thing,” he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday the United States was in a position to deploy a new land-based cruise missile in Romania and Poland, a scenario he considered a threat that Moscow would need to respond to.&nbsp;

The United States has said it has no imminent plans to deploy new land-based missiles in Europe.

This week's US test would have been banned under the INF, which prohibited land-based missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,400 miles, reducing the ability of the United States and Russia to launch a nuclear strike at short notice. China was not a party to the INF treaty and has a large arsenal of land-based intermediate-range missiles.

Washington formally withdrew from the landmark 1987 pact with Russia on Aug. 2 after determining that Moscow was violating the treaty, an accusation the Kremlin has denied.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that the US&nbsp;test showed the United States was stoking a new arms race and confrontation, which would have a serious negative impact on regional and global security.&nbsp;

A North Korean spokesman said on Thursday the US&nbsp;test and plans to deploy F-35 jets and offensive military equipment around the Korean peninsula were "dangerous" moves that would "trigger a new Cold War" in the region.&nbsp;

Asked whether he thought it was appropriate for Washington to continue to seek negotiations with Pyongyang after its repeated recent tests of short-range missiles, Esper said the biggest US concern was about North Korea's long-range missiles, tests of which it has frozen since 2017.

"I think you need to take a look at the bigger picture," he said when asked if recent U.S. statements playing down the short-range tests amounted to giving North Korea permission to conduct them.

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters.

Russia and China have asked the United Nations Security Council to meet on Thursday over "statements by US officials on their plans to develop and deploy medium-range missiles," according to the request seen by Reuters. Moscow and Beijing want to convene the 15-member council under the agenda item "threats to international peace and security" and have requested that UN disarmament affairs chief Izumi Nakamitsu brief the body. The Pentagon said on Monday it had tested a conventionally configured cruise missile that hit its target after more than 500 km (310 miles) of flight, the first such test since the United States pulled out Cold War-era Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF). US Defense Secretary Mark Esper was asked in a Fox News Channel interview on Wednesday whether the test was aimed at sending a message to China, Russia or North Korea and indicated that the main concern was China. "We want to make sure that we, as we need to, can deter Chinese bad behaviour by having our capability to be able to strike at intermediate ranges," he said. Esper said on a visit to Australia this month he was in favour of placing ground-launched, intermediate-range missiles in Asia relatively soon. Esper was also asked about a rocket test accident in Russia this month which U.S. officials believe was associated with the Kremlin`s hypersonic cruise missile program. “They are trying to expand their strategic nuclear arsenal to deal with the United States," he said, adding that all such new weapons would have to be included in any future strategic arms reduction treaty. "Right now Russia has possibly nuclear-tipped ... INF-range cruise missiles facing toward Europe, and that`s not a good thing,” he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday the United States was in a position to deploy a new land-based cruise missile in Romania and Poland, a scenario he considered a threat that Moscow would need to respond to. The United States has said it has no imminent plans to deploy new land-based missiles in Europe. This week's US test would have been banned under the INF, which prohibited land-based missiles with a range of between 310 and 3,400 miles, reducing the ability of the United States and Russia to launch a nuclear strike at short notice. China was not a party to the INF treaty and has a large arsenal of land-based intermediate-range missiles. Washington formally withdrew from the landmark 1987 pact with Russia on Aug. 2 after determining that Moscow was violating the treaty, an accusation the Kremlin has denied. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that the US test showed the United States was stoking a new arms race and confrontation, which would have a serious negative impact on regional and global security. A North Korean spokesman said on Thursday the US test and plans to deploy F-35 jets and offensive military equipment around the Korean peninsula were "dangerous" moves that would "trigger a new Cold War" in the region. Asked whether he thought it was appropriate for Washington to continue to seek negotiations with Pyongyang after its repeated recent tests of short-range missiles, Esper said the biggest US concern was about North Korea's long-range missiles, tests of which it has frozen since 2017. "I think you need to take a look at the bigger picture," he said when asked if recent U.S. statements playing down the short-range tests amounted to giving North Korea permission to conduct them.

Russia, China seek United Nations Security Council meeting on US missile developments

After failing to censure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/matter-related-to-article-370-of-indian-constitution-entirely-internal-issue-india-reiterates-after-unsc-meet-on-kashmir-concludes-243517">India at United Nations Security Council</a>, baffled Pakistan government has called high-level meeting on Saturday to discuss its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mediation-off-table-as-trump-calls-for-bilateral-between-india-and-pakistan-243529">future plan of action on Kashmir issue</a>.

It will see the participation of various Pakistani institutions.

Speaking to media following the&nbsp;UNSC closed-door meeting, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "I have called for a meeting tomorrow at 11 am in which various Pakistani institutions would take part."

"We will deliberate on the future course of action and what further steps can be taken to help and support the people of Kashmir," he said.

Earlier in the day, the UNSC held a closed-door consultation on Kashmir. The meeting was called by China on the behest of Pakistan.

However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position.

China and Pakistan stood isolated as a member after member refused to endorse their position.

When asked whether Pakistan is ready for dialogue with India, Qureshi said: "Pakistan has always pushed for engagement and a peaceful resolution. There is no chance of bilateral talks until the curfew is lifted in Kashmir".

However, India has always maintained that it will not initiate a dialogue with Pakistan until it takes actions against terror groups operating from its soil.

After failing to censure India at United Nations Security Council, baffled Pakistan government has called high-level meeting on Saturday to discuss its future plan of action on Kashmir issue.

After failing to censure India at United Nations Security Council, baffled Pakistan government has called high-level meeting on Saturday to discuss its future plan of action on Kashmir issue. It will see the participation of various Pakistani institutions. Speaking to media following the UNSC closed-door meeting, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said: "I have called for a meeting tomorrow at 11 am in which various Pakistani institutions would take part." "We will deliberate on the future course of action and what further steps can be taken to help and support the people of Kashmir," he said. Earlier in the day, the UNSC held a closed-door consultation on Kashmir. The meeting was called by China on the behest of Pakistan. However, the China-Pakistan axis failed at the UNSC closed-door meeting when a majority of the Council members refused to take up the Kashmir matter and rejected the Chinese position. China and Pakistan stood isolated as a member after member refused to endorse their position. When asked whether Pakistan is ready for dialogue with India, Qureshi said: "Pakistan has always pushed for engagement and a peaceful resolution. There is no chance of bilateral talks until the curfew is lifted in Kashmir". However, India has always maintained that it will not initiate a dialogue with Pakistan until it takes actions against terror groups operating from its soil.

Pakistan calls for high-level meeting to deliberate future course of action on Kashmir