India’s flag installed at the United Nations Security Council stakeout on Monday as the country begins its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the powerful UN body.

India's 8th term at the United Nations Security Council, becomes non-permanent member

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body.&nbsp;

Monday marked the first working day at the UN with the term starting on January 1, 2021.

Speaking at the ceremony, India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, that "India will be a voice for the developing world" and will use its "tenure to bring human-centric and inclusive solutions to matters of international peace and security" highlighting that, "India comes into the Security Council" as the "largest democracy representing 1/6th of humanity" and with a "strong commitment" to "reformed multilateralism, rule of law, a fair and equitable international system and to peace, security and development."

"From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, we stand united as one, bound by our ethos of democracy, pluralism, and commitment to fundamental rights," Tirumurti added.&nbsp;

It is the eighth time India assumes membership at the UNSC. Along with India--Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway also began their two-year term at the body.

On terror, the Indian envoy said, "We will not shy away from raising our voice against the common enemies of humanity like terrorism." Other key Focus Areas for India during its tenure will be "peacekeeping, peace-building, maritime security, women and youth, especially in conflict situations, and technology with a human face."

He also mentioned the COVID -19crisis, recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda who said “Each nation must give, in order to live. When you give life, you will have life; when you receive, you must pay for it by giving to all others.”&nbsp;

The practice of flag installation was started by Kazakhstan.

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body.

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body. Monday marked the first working day at the UN with the term starting on January 1, 2021. Speaking at the ceremony, India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, that "India will be a voice for the developing world" and will use its "tenure to bring human-centric and inclusive solutions to matters of international peace and security" highlighting that, "India comes into the Security Council" as the "largest democracy representing 1/6th of humanity" and with a "strong commitment" to "reformed multilateralism, rule of law, a fair and equitable international system and to peace, security and development." "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, we stand united as one, bound by our ethos of democracy, pluralism, and commitment to fundamental rights," Tirumurti added. It is the eighth time India assumes membership at the UNSC. Along with India--Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway also began their two-year term at the body. On terror, the Indian envoy said, "We will not shy away from raising our voice against the common enemies of humanity like terrorism." Other key Focus Areas for India during its tenure will be "peacekeeping, peace-building, maritime security, women and youth, especially in conflict situations, and technology with a human face." He also mentioned the COVID -19crisis, recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda who said “Each nation must give, in order to live. When you give life, you will have life; when you receive, you must pay for it by giving to all others.” The practice of flag installation was started by Kazakhstan.

Indian flag raised at UNSC; envoy Tirumurti says New Delhi will be voice of developing world

With India being part of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as the non-permanent member from January 1, 2021, and UN 75 years of celebration (2020) hangover rolling over to next year, the debate on UNSC reforms continues, with no worthwhile progress, despite high pitch for reforms made by many countries including India.

India begins 2-year stint at UNSC: What values will guide India's approach?

India became a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint.

India begins 8th term as non-permanent member of UNSC

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint.

India begins two-year stint at UNSC as non-permanent member

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint.

India's key focus will be on reforms, strong action on terrorism and maintaining peace among others.&nbsp;

To this end, WION brings to you the team at the Indian mission at the UN, and what they said as New Delhi took over.

Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

He said, "I am confident that India will bring with it the Indian way of doing things. And contribute to more cooperative and inclusive decision making process in the Security Council. I am happy to say that our team in the permanent mission of India in New York is all geared up for the Security Council and I am confident our team will do India proud. We are grateful for the support we have received from honourable PM Modi as well as our External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and the foreign secretary Harsh Shringla who has himself served in New York earlier."

Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

"India brings legitimacy to the council's deliberations and decision making. We look forward to our presidency of the UNSC in the month of August 2021. It is coincidental, while we are on the council, India will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. Please join us in this historic journey. We are all excited; we are all well prepared. Our teams are in place -- both in New York and New Delhi. We look forward for a very substantive and productive two year term at the council," he said.

R Ravindra, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (Political Coordinator)

He said, "The Security Council is a political body and the decision of the security council are largely political in nature. The Africa and West Asia issue dominate the council's agenda. For India, progess and prosperity of Africa, conflict free west Asia is important. While we are in the council, we will be a forceful voice and will work constructively with other council members in finding meaningfull solutions to the problems faced by Africa and West Asia."

Pratik Mathur, Counsellor

"India's approch to our tenure on the security council is guided by an emphasis on building on international system that based on respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity for all," he said.

A Amarnath, Counsellor

He said, "In its efforts to promote responsible and inclusive solutions to the challenges to international peace and security, India will bring to the security council its strong commitment to multilateralism and fare, equitable and rules based international system."

R Madhu Sudan, Counsellor

"Widespread concern that the inadequacy of the existing multilateral institutions to deliver results or meet new challenges. World order needs to be contemporary to remain credible. That is why India has called for reformed multilateralism and we will work towards this goal. This will be one our focus areas at the Security Council," he said.

Mayank Singh, Counsellor

He said, "Through bilateral assistance to member states and continue contributions to UN funds and programmes, India's approch to addressing the underline causes of conflict is also supporting demand driven and nationally owned projects."

Rajesh Parihar, First Secretary

"Solutions for post conflict recovery, not only calls for institution and capacity building but also greater involvement of women and youth in shaping the peace and security paradigm. India will work to ensure greater youth and women participation in peace process," he said.

Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary

She said, "The global security landscape is shifting. We have persistent traditional security challenges coexiting with new and emerging ones. What this demand is coherent, pragmatic, nimble and effective platform for collaboration. The post coronavirus world provides such an opportunity. India's presence at the security council at this time is essentially a clarion call for collaboration."

Siddharth Malik, First Secretary&nbsp;

"As a rule abiding democracy and a positive contributor to the secruity of the global commons, India will constructively work with our partners to overcome old and new political and economic faultlines," he said.

Mijito Vinito, First Secretary

He said, "Terrorism is an enduring and abiding critical threat to international peace and and security. India will persue concrete action at the council aimed at addressing aimed at addressing the abuse of information and communication technology by terrorist, disrupting the nexus of terrorist sponsors and trans national organised criminal entities."

Ashish Sharma, First Secretary&nbsp;

"Today's peace and security challenges require a comprehensive integrated approach. Harmonizing national choices and international priorities. India is committed to hearing and heeding the voices of all to forge consensus and common purpose," he said.

Thirugnana Sambandan S, First Secretary

He said, "Streamling of UN Peacekeeping operations is needed to infuse greater clarity, direction and professionalism. Use of innovative technology also offers promising opportunities for safe and effective mandate implementation in conflict situation."

Yedla Umasankar, First Secretary/Legal Adviser

"India during its tenure at the council will work towards the goal of saving succeeding generation from the scouge of wars by promoting peacefull settlement of international disputes," he said.

Gopal K Wadhwa, Second Secretary&nbsp;

He said, "While we are on the security council monitoring the media is important for gauging the response to our policies. We are constantly and actively engaged in this process and this works as a feedback loop for us."

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint. India's key focus will be on reforms, strong action on terrorism and maintaining peace among others. To this end, WION brings to you the team at the Indian mission at the UN, and what they said as New Delhi took over. Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations He said, "I am confident that India will bring with it the Indian way of doing things. And contribute to more cooperative and inclusive decision making process in the Security Council. I am happy to say that our team in the permanent mission of India in New York is all geared up for the Security Council and I am confident our team will do India proud. We are grateful for the support we have received from honourable PM Modi as well as our External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and the foreign secretary Harsh Shringla who has himself served in New York earlier." Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations "India brings legitimacy to the council's deliberations and decision making. We look forward to our presidency of the UNSC in the month of August 2021. It is coincidental, while we are on the council, India will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. Please join us in this historic journey. We are all excited; we are all well prepared. Our teams are in place -- both in New York and New Delhi. We look forward for a very substantive and productive two year term at the council," he said. R Ravindra, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (Political Coordinator) He said, "The Security Council is a political body and the decision of the security council are largely political in nature. The Africa and West Asia issue dominate the council's agenda. For India, progess and prosperity of Africa, conflict free west Asia is important. While we are in the council, we will be a forceful voice and will work constructively with other council members in finding meaningfull solutions to the problems faced by Africa and West Asia." Pratik Mathur, Counsellor "India's approch to our tenure on the security council is guided by an emphasis on building on international system that based on respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity for all," he said. A Amarnath, Counsellor He said, "In its efforts to promote responsible and inclusive solutions to the challenges to international peace and security, India will bring to the security council its strong commitment to multilateralism and fare, equitable and rules based international system." R Madhu Sudan, Counsellor "Widespread concern that the inadequacy of the existing multilateral institutions to deliver results or meet new challenges. World order needs to be contemporary to remain credible. That is why India has called for reformed multilateralism and we will work towards this goal. This will be one our focus areas at the Security Council," he said. Mayank Singh, Counsellor He said, "Through bilateral assistance to member states and continue contributions to UN funds and programmes, India's approch to addressing the underline causes of conflict is also supporting demand driven and nationally owned projects." Rajesh Parihar, First Secretary "Solutions for post conflict recovery, not only calls for institution and capacity building but also greater involvement of women and youth in shaping the peace and security paradigm. India will work to ensure greater youth and women participation in peace process," he said. Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary She said, "The global security landscape is shifting. We have persistent traditional security challenges coexiting with new and emerging ones. What this demand is coherent, pragmatic, nimble and effective platform for collaboration. The post coronavirus world provides such an opportunity. India's presence at the security council at this time is essentially a clarion call for collaboration." Siddharth Malik, First Secretary "As a rule abiding democracy and a positive contributor to the secruity of the global commons, India will constructively work with our partners to overcome old and new political and economic faultlines," he said. Mijito Vinito, First Secretary He said, "Terrorism is an enduring and abiding critical threat to international peace and and security. India will persue concrete action at the council aimed at addressing aimed at addressing the abuse of information and communication technology by terrorist, disrupting the nexus of terrorist sponsors and trans national organised criminal entities." Ashish Sharma, First Secretary "Today's peace and security challenges require a comprehensive integrated approach. Harmonizing national choices and international priorities. India is committed to hearing and heeding the voices of all to forge consensus and common purpose," he said. Thirugnana Sambandan S, First Secretary He said, "Streamling of UN Peacekeeping operations is needed to infuse greater clarity, direction and professionalism. Use of innovative technology also offers promising opportunities for safe and effective mandate implementation in conflict situation." Yedla Umasankar, First Secretary/Legal Adviser "India during its tenure at the council will work towards the goal of saving succeeding generation from the scouge of wars by promoting peacefull settlement of international disputes," he said. Gopal K Wadhwa, Second Secretary He said, "While we are on the security council monitoring the media is important for gauging the response to our policies. We are constantly and actively engaged in this process and this works as a feedback loop for us."

Meet India's team at UN as it becomes UNSC non-permanent member

With the beginning of the new year, India will begin a new journey at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as it will become its non-permanent member for the eighth time.&nbsp;

India will enter UNSC along with Norway, Kenya, Ireland and Mexico for the 15-member UNSC for a two-year term.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

India will be presented with a unique opportunity to demonstrate its ability as a global power and strengthen its claim to a permanent seat.&nbsp;

So what will be India's agenda and approach at UNSC? Here's a report to answer all such questions related to India and UNSC.&nbsp;

India has been a non-permanent member of the UNSC for a total of seven times in the past. There was a 19-year break when India was not the member of the council after a term from 1991-1992.&nbsp;

<h2>The values India will hold at UNSC</h2>

In the words of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, India's approach will be guided by 5s: samman, samvad, sahyog, shanti, samriddhi (respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity).&nbsp;

With these values in mind, India vows to emerge as a mediating force as frictions between world powers emerge.&nbsp;

Key priorities that could lead to a permanent seat

Counter-terrorism, maritime security, scientific research, technological development with a human touch and maintaining international peace will be the main agendas that could pave the way for a permanent seat at the UNSC.&nbsp;

Let's look at some of the statistics which strengthens Indiá's demand for being awarded a permanent seat.

India is the fourth-highest troop-contributing country at the United Nations. A total 6,700 Indian troops are deployed in UN peacekeeping currently and over 200,000 Indians have served in several such UN missions since 1948.&nbsp;

As many as 160 Indians have lost their lives serving under the UN flag.&nbsp;

In 2007, India became the first country to deploy an all-women contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission.&nbsp;

India will seek to leverage its strength to improve peacekeeping efforts around the world.&nbsp;

Also, India is the vaccine manufacturing hub of the world.

Almost 60 per cent of vaccines distributed around the world come from India, which means one out of every three vaccines.&nbsp;

The cost of production and clinical trials is the lowest in the world in India.

As the world's pharmacy, India would seek to reform the global institution to respond better to health crises in the future.&nbsp;

The next reason is the most important one which is India's clear position on combating international terrorism.&nbsp;

As a non-permanent member, India would push for an effective response to global terrorism, abuse of information technology by terrorists, disrupting their nexus with sponsors, stemming the flow of terror financing and strengthening cooperation with other multilateral forums.&nbsp;

The common perception suggests that the non-permanent members are powerless as they don't have the power of veto.&nbsp;

However, this is not entirely true as these members have what is called as 'collective veto'.&nbsp;

To pass any resolution in the council, at least seven non-permanent members should agree to it.

Even, if the permanent members have already said 'yes' to a resolution, it still needs the backing of at least seven non-permanent members. This is called a collective veto.&nbsp;

Also, along with the permanent members, the non-permanent members assume the monthly presidency of the UNSC.

As president, they can decide the topics of debate and issues they think are important to be discussed at the high table.&nbsp;

Non-permanent members also preside over several committees and working groups at the UNSC.

Keeping all these aspects on perspective, Indis has plenty of room to lead from the front and strengthen its case to grab permanent membership. 
&nbsp;

With the beginning of the new year, India will begin a new journey at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as it will become its non-permanent member for the eighth time.

With the beginning of the new year, India will begin a new journey at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as it will become its non-permanent member for the eighth time. India will enter UNSC along with Norway, Kenya, Ireland and Mexico for the 15-member UNSC for a two-year term. Watch | India will be presented with a unique opportunity to demonstrate its ability as a global power and strengthen its claim to a permanent seat. So what will be India's agenda and approach at UNSC? Here's a report to answer all such questions related to India and UNSC. India has been a non-permanent member of the UNSC for a total of seven times in the past. There was a 19-year break when India was not the member of the council after a term from 1991-1992. The values India will hold at UNSC In the words of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, India's approach will be guided by 5s: samman, samvad, sahyog, shanti, samriddhi (respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity). With these values in mind, India vows to emerge as a mediating force as frictions between world powers emerge. Key priorities that could lead to a permanent seat Counter-terrorism, maritime security, scientific research, technological development with a human touch and maintaining international peace will be the main agendas that could pave the way for a permanent seat at the UNSC. Let's look at some of the statistics which strengthens Indiá's demand for being awarded a permanent seat. India is the fourth-highest troop-contributing country at the United Nations. A total 6,700 Indian troops are deployed in UN peacekeeping currently and over 200,000 Indians have served in several such UN missions since 1948. As many as 160 Indians have lost their lives serving under the UN flag. In 2007, India became the first country to deploy an all-women contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission. India will seek to leverage its strength to improve peacekeeping efforts around the world. Also, India is the vaccine manufacturing hub of the world. Almost 60 per cent of vaccines distributed around the world come from India, which means one out of every three vaccines. The cost of production and clinical trials is the lowest in the world in India. As the world's pharmacy, India would seek to reform the global institution to respond better to health crises in the future. The next reason is the most important one which is India's clear position on combating international terrorism. As a non-permanent member, India would push for an effective response to global terrorism, abuse of information technology by terrorists, disrupting their nexus with sponsors, stemming the flow of terror financing and strengthening cooperation with other multilateral forums. The common perception suggests that the non-permanent members are powerless as they don't have the power of veto. However, this is not entirely true as these members have what is called as 'collective veto'. To pass any resolution in the council, at least seven non-permanent members should agree to it. Even, if the permanent members have already said 'yes' to a resolution, it still needs the backing of at least seven non-permanent members. This is called a collective veto. Also, along with the permanent members, the non-permanent members assume the monthly presidency of the UNSC. As president, they can decide the topics of debate and issues they think are important to be discussed at the high table. Non-permanent members also preside over several committees and working groups at the UNSC. Keeping all these aspects on perspective, Indis has plenty of room to lead from the front and strengthen its case to grab permanent membership.

As India set to begin another journey in UNSC this year, a playbook of how it can showcase its ability

Germany`s U.N. envoy, during his last scheduled U.N. Security Council meeting, appealed to China to free two detained Canadians for Christmas, prompting China`s deputy U.N. envoy to respond: "Out of the bottom of my heart: Good riddance."

Germany finishes a two-year term on the 15-member council at the end of this month and Ambassador Christoph Heusgen plans to retire after more than 40 years as a diplomat.

"Let me end my tenure on the Security Council by appealing to my Chinese colleagues to ask Beijing for the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Christmas is the right moment for such a gesture," Heusgen told the council session, whose official agenda topic was Iran.

Kovrig, a former Canadian diplomat who was working as an adviser for the International Crisis Group think tank, and businessman Spavor were detained by Beijing in 2018 shortly after Canadian police picked up Huawei Technologies Co Ltd Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. warrant.

China`s deputy U.N. ambassador, Geng Shuang, accused Heusgen of abusing the Security Council to launch "malicious" attacks on other members "in an attempt to poison the working atmosphere".

"I wish to say something out of the bottom of my heart: Good riddance, Ambassador Heusgen," Geng said. "I am hoping that the council in your absence in the year 2021 will be in a better position to fulfil the responsibilities...for maintaining international peace and security."

Heusgen also used the Security Council meeting to advise Russia`s deputy U.N. ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, to read certain articles about Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, who said he had tricked a Russian secret agent into disclosing details of a botched plot to kill him. Russia`s FSB security service dismissed the recording as a fake.

Polyanskiy replied: "It seems he`s developed a certain dependency on the council, there`s never a meeting without criticism of Russia even if that`s not suitable for the subject matter. I hope that after Jan. 1 that Christoph`s symptoms will improve."

Germany`s U.N. envoy, during his last scheduled U.N. Security Council meeting, appealed to China to free two detained Canadians for Christmas, prompting China`s deputy U.

Germany`s U.N. envoy, during his last scheduled U.N. Security Council meeting, appealed to China to free two detained Canadians for Christmas, prompting China`s deputy U.N. envoy to respond: "Out of the bottom of my heart: Good riddance." Germany finishes a two-year term on the 15-member council at the end of this month and Ambassador Christoph Heusgen plans to retire after more than 40 years as a diplomat. "Let me end my tenure on the Security Council by appealing to my Chinese colleagues to ask Beijing for the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Christmas is the right moment for such a gesture," Heusgen told the council session, whose official agenda topic was Iran. Kovrig, a former Canadian diplomat who was working as an adviser for the International Crisis Group think tank, and businessman Spavor were detained by Beijing in 2018 shortly after Canadian police picked up Huawei Technologies Co Ltd Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. warrant. China`s deputy U.N. ambassador, Geng Shuang, accused Heusgen of abusing the Security Council to launch "malicious" attacks on other members "in an attempt to poison the working atmosphere". "I wish to say something out of the bottom of my heart: Good riddance, Ambassador Heusgen," Geng said. "I am hoping that the council in your absence in the year 2021 will be in a better position to fulfil the responsibilities...for maintaining international peace and security." Heusgen also used the Security Council meeting to advise Russia`s deputy U.N. ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, to read certain articles about Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, who said he had tricked a Russian secret agent into disclosing details of a botched plot to kill him. Russia`s FSB security service dismissed the recording as a fake. Polyanskiy replied: "It seems he`s developed a certain dependency on the council, there`s never a meeting without criticism of Russia even if that`s not suitable for the subject matter. I hope that after Jan. 1 that Christoph`s symptoms will improve."

'Good riddance,' China says as Germany leaves UN Security Council

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has allowed payment of Pakistani Rs 1.5 lakh a month to Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, the operations head of terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba.

UNSC allows Pak to pay Lashkar-e-Taiba's Lakhvi Rs1.5 lakh for his monthly expenses

The United Nations Security Council has allowed Pakistan to pay basic expenses to the 26\11 Mumbai terror attack planner Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi on the request of the Imran Khan government.

UNSC allows Pakistan to pay basic expenses to the 26\11 Mumbai attack planner Lakhvi

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. Both have been listed by the UN as international terrorists. Lakhvi had a role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while Sultan, once at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission came under the scanner for his meetings with Al Qaeda's Osama Bin Laden. Sultan has been awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the third-highest civilian award of Pakistan. There may be more such developments coming.

Has it happened before?

Yes. Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council for Hafiz Saeed last year to get his basic expense with the body approving Islamabad's request. Saeed is responsible for 26/11 Mumbai attack and has a bounty of $10 million on him by the US. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee".

What is a basic expense for UN Listed terrorists?

According to the security council resolution, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses. These include provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums, and public utility charges, or exclusively for payment of reasonable professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses associated with the provision of legal services, etc. 1267 sanctions include three impacts--Assets Freeze, Travel Ban and Arms Embargo.

What is the procedure?

The procedure is that someone puts in a request with the 1267 UNSC Committee, and then if all 15 members do not object within three days, approval is granted. In this case, the request came from the Imran Khan government. The provision that all 15 members should object, thus disapproval of the request requires unanimity. &nbsp;Even if one or two or even 14 members objected, it would still have come through because of this requirement.

Why did no one object to it?

UNSC committee members generally do not disapprove of basic expense requests unless they are blatantly disproportionate, because it goes into all the humanitarian and human rights angles.

Basic expense at 150,000 Pakistani rupees. Too much?

One could legitimately ask the question of whether Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month is just "basic" expense. 150,000 Pak Rupees a month is equivalent in cost of living terms to about USD 6,500 in New York per month or Rupees Indian Rs 70,000.

Benefit for Pakistan?

For someone like Pakistan, it is gaming the system, using the UN Loopholes. Technically and procedurally they are well within their rights. Understanding is, Pakistan is not paying Lashkar. They are using the loophole to allow Lashkar to draw its own funds from its bank accounts which are frozen.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. Both have been listed by the UN as international terrorists. Lakhvi had a role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while Sultan, once at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission came under the scanner for his meetings with Al Qaeda's Osama Bin Laden. Sultan has been awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the third-highest civilian award of Pakistan. There may be more such developments coming. Has it happened before? Yes. Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council for Hafiz Saeed last year to get his basic expense with the body approving Islamabad's request. Saeed is responsible for 26/11 Mumbai attack and has a bounty of $10 million on him by the US. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee". What is a basic expense for UN Listed terrorists? According to the security council resolution, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses. These include provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums, and public utility charges, or exclusively for payment of reasonable professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses associated with the provision of legal services, etc. 1267 sanctions include three impacts--Assets Freeze, Travel Ban and Arms Embargo. What is the procedure? The procedure is that someone puts in a request with the 1267 UNSC Committee, and then if all 15 members do not object within three days, approval is granted. In this case, the request came from the Imran Khan government. The provision that all 15 members should object, thus disapproval of the request requires unanimity. Even if one or two or even 14 members objected, it would still have come through because of this requirement. Why did no one object to it? UNSC committee members generally do not disapprove of basic expense requests unless they are blatantly disproportionate, because it goes into all the humanitarian and human rights angles. Basic expense at 150,000 Pakistani rupees. Too much? One could legitimately ask the question of whether Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month is just "basic" expense. 150,000 Pak Rupees a month is equivalent in cost of living terms to about USD 6,500 in New York per month or Rupees Indian Rs 70,000. Benefit for Pakistan? For someone like Pakistan, it is gaming the system, using the UN Loopholes. Technically and procedurally they are well within their rights. Understanding is, Pakistan is not paying Lashkar. They are using the loophole to allow Lashkar to draw its own funds from its bank accounts which are frozen.

Eyebrows raised as after Hafiz Saeed, Lakhvi gets 'basic expense' approval from UNSC over Pakistan's request

After India handed a dossier against Pakistan to the UNSC, Islamabad has retaliated with a dossier of its own. India's Permanent Representative to UN PR Tirumurti has called it a 'dossier of lies'. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: India-Pakistan dossier war

In a strong statement India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilising Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand Line should stop".

India slams Pakistan at the UNSC for destabilising Afghanistan

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.&nbsp;

India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable."

The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-may-have-died-in-afghanistan-report-344314">Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report</a>

Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan."

To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis.&nbsp;

On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society."

He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded."&nbsp;

This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue.&nbsp;

India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building.

As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan."

New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop".

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable." The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals. Also Read | Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan." To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis. On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society." He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded." This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue. India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building. As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan." New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

India slams Pakistan at UNSC for destabilising Afghanistan; says 'terror flow across Durand Line should stop'

The United Nations celebrated its&nbsp;75th-anniversary this year with the&nbsp;mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity''.

However, there has been growing criticism of the body, which has not been reformed in decades.

UN General Assembly president Volkan Bozkir on Tuesday criticised the Security Council, saying it was failing to respond to the world's biggest challenges due to "competing interests."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-un-general-assembly-president-volkan-bozkir-assails-security-council-343756" hreflang="en">Now, UN General Assembly president Volkan Bozkir assails Security Council</a>

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador T S Tirumurti, speaking in the UN General Assembly, said ''Today's Security Council is an impaired organ. It has been unable to act with credibility essentially due to its unrepresentative nature. But then, what is happening inside the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN)&nbsp;process, which we seem to be wedded to?''

Earlier,&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday called&nbsp;for an overhaul of international cooperation mechanisms adding that the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is out of ''useful solutions''.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-out-of-useful-solutions-says-emmanuel-macron-343498" hreflang="en">United Nations Security Council out of 'useful solutions', says Emmanuel Macron</a>

For years, India, Germany, Japan, and Brazil have been trying to get a permanent seat to the UN security council but the UN charter is such that it gives permanent members the veto power to any resolution, including the expansion of membership.

The members of the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council include the United States, China, Britain, France, and Russia.

While the first four have backed India's permanent membership, China has time and again stalled it.&nbsp;China has also stonewalled the IGN&nbsp;or the inter-governmental negotiations by laying out impossible conditions.

China is&nbsp;using the IGN as a smoke-screen to prevent&nbsp;identification by paying lip-service to Security Council reform.

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During the debate on reform, the 193 UN members discussed the right to veto, the privilege of the five permanent members of the Security Council (United States, China, Russia, France and the United Kingdom), enlarging the forum and its regional balance.

The Security Council, which can decide on international sanctions and the use of force, has 15 members. In addition to the five permanent nations, it has 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

The United Nations celebrated its 75th-anniversary this year with the mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity''. However, there has been growing criticism of the body, which has not been reformed in decades.

The United Nations celebrated its 75th-anniversary this year with the mantra that "multilateralism is not an option but a necessity''. However, there has been growing criticism of the body, which has not been reformed in decades. UN General Assembly president Volkan Bozkir on Tuesday criticised the Security Council, saying it was failing to respond to the world's biggest challenges due to "competing interests." Also read: Now, UN General Assembly president Volkan Bozkir assails Security Council India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador T S Tirumurti, speaking in the UN General Assembly, said ''Today's Security Council is an impaired organ. It has been unable to act with credibility essentially due to its unrepresentative nature. But then, what is happening inside the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) process, which we seem to be wedded to?'' Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday called for an overhaul of international cooperation mechanisms adding that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is out of ''useful solutions''. Also read: United Nations Security Council out of 'useful solutions', says Emmanuel Macron For years, India, Germany, Japan, and Brazil have been trying to get a permanent seat to the UN security council but the UN charter is such that it gives permanent members the veto power to any resolution, including the expansion of membership. The members of the United Nations Security Council include the United States, China, Britain, France, and Russia. While the first four have backed India's permanent membership, China has time and again stalled it. China has also stonewalled the IGN or the inter-governmental negotiations by laying out impossible conditions. China is using the IGN as a smoke-screen to prevent identification by paying lip-service to Security Council reform. × During the debate on reform, the 193 UN members discussed the right to veto, the privilege of the five permanent members of the Security Council (United States, China, Russia, France and the United Kingdom), enlarging the forum and its regional balance. The Security Council, which can decide on international sanctions and the use of force, has 15 members. In addition to the five permanent nations, it has 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.

How China is stonewalling reforms at United Nations Security Council

India says the United Nations Security Council has been reduced to an impaired organ after China stonewalled reforms. Why is Beijing afraid of expanding UNSC membership and giving India a permanent seat?

Gravitas: China blocks UNSC reforms

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue".

Comments come even as India has urged the international community for urgent reforms at the world body to reflect current geopolitical realities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-is-stonewalling-reforms-at-united-nations-security-council-343771" hreflang="en">How China is stonewalling reforms at United Nations Security Council</a>

Jaishankar, speaking at an event said, "The fact that different people in different parts of the world are pointing out to the shortcoming and relevance of the UN, is something that UN should take seriously. It's common sense."

Explaining," In our life, what is it, which is 75 years old and you are still using. Everything requires refreshing, updating...The longer we let this stalemate, gridlock continue, it's harming the UN."

The UN this year marks the 75th anniversary of its coming into being in the aftermath of World War 2.

On reforms at the UN and United Nations Security Council (UNSC), intergovernmental negotiations&nbsp;are underway but these are informal, and even United Nations general assembly rules don't apply. China, while calling for reforms, has been scuttling any application of UNGA rules.

Beijing is also blocking any move to a single text-based negotiation. When it comes to any support for India's candidature for UNSC, it is the only permanent member of the body that has not to voice any support.

Indian PM Modi has spoken at the United Nations General assembly, SCO, BRICS meeting for urgent reforms, and India's candidature at the United Nations Security Council.

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue".

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue". Comments come even as India has urged the international community for urgent reforms at the world body to reflect current geopolitical realities. Also read: How China is stonewalling reforms at United Nations Security Council Jaishankar, speaking at an event said, "The fact that different people in different parts of the world are pointing out to the shortcoming and relevance of the UN, is something that UN should take seriously. It's common sense." Explaining," In our life, what is it, which is 75 years old and you are still using. Everything requires refreshing, updating...The longer we let this stalemate, gridlock continue, it's harming the UN." The UN this year marks the 75th anniversary of its coming into being in the aftermath of World War 2. On reforms at the UN and United Nations Security Council (UNSC), intergovernmental negotiations are underway but these are informal, and even United Nations general assembly rules don't apply. China, while calling for reforms, has been scuttling any application of UNGA rules. Beijing is also blocking any move to a single text-based negotiation. When it comes to any support for India's candidature for UNSC, it is the only permanent member of the body that has not to voice any support. Indian PM Modi has spoken at the United Nations General assembly, SCO, BRICS meeting for urgent reforms, and India's candidature at the United Nations Security Council.

EAM on UN reforms: One or two countries want to freeze one moment of history

India on Tuesday said that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) had become an "impaired organ" as it "failed to act with credibility essentially due to its unrepresentative nature".

WION Dispatch: UNSC an impaired organ, failed to act with credibility; says India

At the 75th session of United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) said that United Nation Security Council (UNSC) has become a 'Imapaired Organ' and unable to act with credibility due to it's Unpresentative Nature.

UNSC has become a 'impaired organ' and unable to act credibility :India

French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday called&nbsp;for an overhaul of international cooperation mechanisms adding that the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is out of ''useful solutions''.

In an interview, Macron said that ''multilateral frameworks are weakened today because they are blocked."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-registers-1-million-coronavirus-cases-in-less-than-a-week-343370" hreflang="en">US registers 1 million coronavirus cases in less than a week</a>

"I cannot help but observe that the United Nation's Security Council no longer produces useful solutions today," he added.

UNSC has not communicated on the global Covid pandemic except for one video conference in April.

The members of the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council include the United States, China, Britain, France, and Russia.

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Macron said "everybody is jointly responsible when some institutions become hostages of the crisis in multilateralism", such as the World Health Organization.

President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of being too close to the Chinese government and has started a procedure to withdraw the US from the organisation.

Now was the right time to "strengthen and structure a political Europe" which could be at the heart of a "new multilateralism", Macron said.

A strong Europe, he said, "is the only way to impose our values" to avoid a Chinese-US duopoly and "the return of hostile regional powers".

In a speech before the UN General Assembly in September, Macron had already called on the international community to avoid being reduced to the status of "depressed observer" of a China-US rivalry.

In Monday's interview, Macron said he "deeply" disagreed with German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer who said recently that Europe would not be able to replace the United States as a guarantor of its own security.

"I think that is a misinterpretation of history," Macron said. "Luckily, the Chancellor (Angela Merkel) does not share that view if I've understood correctly."

The United States would respect Europeans as allies only "once we are serious about ourselves and once we have sovereignty over our own defence".

He added: "We need to build our own autonomy, just like the United States builds its own, and China builds its own."

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday called for an overhaul of international cooperation mechanisms adding that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is out of ''useful solutions''.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday called for an overhaul of international cooperation mechanisms adding that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is out of ''useful solutions''. In an interview, Macron said that ''multilateral frameworks are weakened today because they are blocked." Also read: US registers 1 million coronavirus cases in less than a week "I cannot help but observe that the United Nation's Security Council no longer produces useful solutions today," he added. UNSC has not communicated on the global Covid pandemic except for one video conference in April. The members of the United Nations Security Council include the United States, China, Britain, France, and Russia. Macron said "everybody is jointly responsible when some institutions become hostages of the crisis in multilateralism", such as the World Health Organization. President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of being too close to the Chinese government and has started a procedure to withdraw the US from the organisation. Now was the right time to "strengthen and structure a political Europe" which could be at the heart of a "new multilateralism", Macron said. A strong Europe, he said, "is the only way to impose our values" to avoid a Chinese-US duopoly and "the return of hostile regional powers". In a speech before the UN General Assembly in September, Macron had already called on the international community to avoid being reduced to the status of "depressed observer" of a China-US rivalry. In Monday's interview, Macron said he "deeply" disagreed with German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer who said recently that Europe would not be able to replace the United States as a guarantor of its own security. "I think that is a misinterpretation of history," Macron said. "Luckily, the Chancellor (Angela Merkel) does not share that view if I've understood correctly." The United States would respect Europeans as allies only "once we are serious about ourselves and once we have sovereignty over our own defence". He added: "We need to build our own autonomy, just like the United States builds its own, and China builds its own."

United Nations Security Council out of 'useful solutions', says Emmanuel Macron

India at the United Nations Security Council has warned that artificial intelligence-enabled "deep learning" to create "deepfakes" which can be used for misinformation across the World and terror groups are using the internet for many things from recruitment to purchase of weapons.

India's envoy to UN, T.S. Tirumurti, "Terrorist and radical extremist groups today have unprecedented access to the general public through the internet, which allows for more efficient and effective recruitment, incitement, and propaganda, as well as the purchase of weapons and illegal money transfers"

Explaining, "both state and non-state actors" can use "Artificial Intelligence-enabled deep learning to create ‘deepfakes,’ which have the potential to fuel misinformation, divisions, and political instability."

The envoy pointed out that "advances in AI and 3D printing" could facilitate attacks by "automating the development and deployment of weapons and weapon systems" thereby transferring "responsibility over life and death from human moral systems to complex data systems, devoid of an ethical compass."

India's statement was on the issue, "Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace Contemporary Drivers of Conflict and Insecurity" on which it highlighted its role in countries like Afghanistan, Gambia and more.

Envoy Tirumurti highlighted that in Afghanistan, "even in the face of repeated terrorist attacks, India has persisted and invested in grass-root and impactful development partnership projects worth over US$ 3 billion" covering all provinces of the country. Other than major infrastructure projects like Afghan Parliament building, India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat, India has assisted the Government of Afghanistan in setting up first of its kind Afghanistan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University in Kandahar.

In the Gambia just last year, India had trained 25 senior civil servants which Solicitor General and Legal Secretary, Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries from key governmental ministries.

Indian envoy giving an overarching view of New Delhi's outreach, said, "Going forward, India will continue to be a force multiplier for peacebuilding with an emphasis on the “people-centric” approach not just in our neighbourhood but also in Africa, the Pacific and Caribbean Islands and beyond."

India at the United Nations Security Council has warned that artificial intelligence-enabled "deep learning" to create "deepfakes" which can be used for misinformation across the World and terror groups are using the internet for many things from recruitment to purchase of weapons.

India at the United Nations Security Council has warned that artificial intelligence-enabled "deep learning" to create "deepfakes" which can be used for misinformation across the World and terror groups are using the internet for many things from recruitment to purchase of weapons. India's envoy to UN, T.S. Tirumurti, "Terrorist and radical extremist groups today have unprecedented access to the general public through the internet, which allows for more efficient and effective recruitment, incitement, and propaganda, as well as the purchase of weapons and illegal money transfers" Explaining, "both state and non-state actors" can use "Artificial Intelligence-enabled deep learning to create ‘deepfakes,’ which have the potential to fuel misinformation, divisions, and political instability." The envoy pointed out that "advances in AI and 3D printing" could facilitate attacks by "automating the development and deployment of weapons and weapon systems" thereby transferring "responsibility over life and death from human moral systems to complex data systems, devoid of an ethical compass." India's statement was on the issue, "Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace Contemporary Drivers of Conflict and Insecurity" on which it highlighted its role in countries like Afghanistan, Gambia and more. Envoy Tirumurti highlighted that in Afghanistan, "even in the face of repeated terrorist attacks, India has persisted and invested in grass-root and impactful development partnership projects worth over US$ 3 billion" covering all provinces of the country. Other than major infrastructure projects like Afghan Parliament building, India-Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat, India has assisted the Government of Afghanistan in setting up first of its kind Afghanistan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University in Kandahar. In the Gambia just last year, India had trained 25 senior civil servants which Solicitor General and Legal Secretary, Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries from key governmental ministries. Indian envoy giving an overarching view of New Delhi's outreach, said, "Going forward, India will continue to be a force multiplier for peacebuilding with an emphasis on the “people-centric” approach not just in our neighbourhood but also in Africa, the Pacific and Caribbean Islands and beyond."

At UNSC, India warns of artificial intelligence created 'deepfakes' being used to create misinformation

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc."

The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted.&nbsp;

FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country.&nbsp;

MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists".

Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc." The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted. FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country. MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists". Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Islamabad has not taken action on terrorists, says India ahead of FATF's decision on Pakistan’s listing

Calling for "urgency of reform" at the United Nations Security Council "to better reflect contemporary realities", G4 countries--India, Japan, Germany &amp; Brazil in a strongly worded joint statement have said the top UN body risks becoming "obsolete". G4 countries are a group of countries who have been calling for reforms at the UNSC.

The statement said, "As part of reforming the Security Council an expansion of the Security Council in both categories will be indispensable to make this body" more "representative, legitimate and effective.... to deal with the complex challenges the world faces today on questions of international peace and security".&nbsp;

Explaining, "Only if we manage to reform the Security Council will we stop it from becoming obsolete...which will allow it to preserve its credibility and create the political backing needed for the peaceful resolution of today’s international crises".

The G4 statement "expressed disappointment" and without taking China's name called out "attempts to derail this process".

So far over the decade-old Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council reform has seen no movement forward. The statement said, "The recent session demonstrated yet again that the IGN lacks the necessary openness and transparency and is constrained by flawed working methods."

G4 countries have said that the IGN process should follow working methods laid out in United Nations Charter, UN General Assembly rules and time-bound text-based negotiations should happen. China has been dragging its feet on the issue and recently said starting text-based negotiation in a haste will not conducive to building a consensus.

The grouping also batted for Africa at the high table and the joint statement mentioned support for Common African Position enshrined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC.

The statement said, “Africa needs to be represented in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of a reformed and expanded Security Council to correct the historical injustice against this continent" with regard to its under-representation in the Security Council.&nbsp;

The G4 statement comes days after IBSA grouping-- India, Brazil, South Africa issued a similar statement on the reforms.

Calling for "urgency of reform" at the United Nations Security Council "to better reflect contemporary realities", G4 countries--India, Japan, Germany & Brazil in a strongly worded joint statement have said the top UN body risks becoming "obsolete".

Calling for "urgency of reform" at the United Nations Security Council "to better reflect contemporary realities", G4 countries--India, Japan, Germany & Brazil in a strongly worded joint statement have said the top UN body risks becoming "obsolete". G4 countries are a group of countries who have been calling for reforms at the UNSC. The statement said, "As part of reforming the Security Council an expansion of the Security Council in both categories will be indispensable to make this body" more "representative, legitimate and effective.... to deal with the complex challenges the world faces today on questions of international peace and security". Explaining, "Only if we manage to reform the Security Council will we stop it from becoming obsolete...which will allow it to preserve its credibility and create the political backing needed for the peaceful resolution of today’s international crises". The G4 statement "expressed disappointment" and without taking China's name called out "attempts to derail this process". So far over the decade-old Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council reform has seen no movement forward. The statement said, "The recent session demonstrated yet again that the IGN lacks the necessary openness and transparency and is constrained by flawed working methods." G4 countries have said that the IGN process should follow working methods laid out in United Nations Charter, UN General Assembly rules and time-bound text-based negotiations should happen. China has been dragging its feet on the issue and recently said starting text-based negotiation in a haste will not conducive to building a consensus. The grouping also batted for Africa at the high table and the joint statement mentioned support for Common African Position enshrined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC. The statement said, “Africa needs to be represented in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of a reformed and expanded Security Council to correct the historical injustice against this continent" with regard to its under-representation in the Security Council. The G4 statement comes days after IBSA grouping-- India, Brazil, South Africa issued a similar statement on the reforms.

UN Security Council will become obsolete, if not reformed: G4 countries

The President of United States of America has announced the new sanctions on Iranians for violating the United Nations' arms embargo. President Donald Trump demanded the enforcement by US allies who have disputed the fact that he has any such authority to reimpose the sanctions.

US President announces new sanctions on Iranians for violating UN arms embargo

India on Tuesday rejected Pakistan’s contention that the Kashmir issue is one of the most long-standing disputes at the United Nations

India slams Pakistan for raising J&k issue at UN

The Trump administration of United States has threatened to take new measures against Iran. US has accused Iran of breaching 2015 nuclear deal. US has broken up with the UNSC members.

United States threatens to take new measures against Iran

The Trump administration has announced all UN Sanctions against Iran were restored -- a move other nations reject as illegal.

The rest of the world has, hence, set the stage for a showdown at the world body ahead of its annual General Assembly.

The administration on Saturday said that its triggering of the "snapback" mechanism in the UN Security Council resolution that enshrined the 2015 Iran nuclear deal had taken effect at 8 pm Eastern Time.

Snapback means that international sanctions eased or lifted by the nuclear deal are reimposed and must be enforced by UN member states.

That is 30 days after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo notified the council that Iran was in significant non-performance with its obligations under the accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA.

"The United States took this decisive action because, in addition to Iran's failure to perform its JCPOA commitments, the Security Council failed to extend the UN arms embargo on Iran, which had been in place for 13 years," Pompeo said in a statement.

"We initiated the snapback process to restore virtually all previously terminated U.N. Sanctions, including the arms embargo. The world will be safer as a result."

The White House plans to issue an executive order on Monday spelling out how the US plans to enforce the restored sanctions.

The US move, however, faces opposition from the other members of the Security Council. They say the US lost legal standing to invoke snapback when President Donald Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed American sanctions on Iran.

The US, on the other hand, argues it retains the right to do it as an original participant in the deal and a member of the council.

Those bans were either removed or set to expire under the terms of the deal in which Iran was granted billions of dollars in sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme.

China and Russia have been particularly adamant in rejecting the move. Even Britain, France and Germany said the sanctions relief provided by the nuclear deal will remain in place.

Also, Trump plans to address Iran in a speech to the General Assembly's annual high-level meeting on Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

The Trump administration has announced all UN Sanctions against Iran were restored -- a move other nations reject as illegal. The rest of the world has, hence, set the stage for a showdown at the world body ahead of its annual General Assembly.

The Trump administration has announced all UN Sanctions against Iran were restored -- a move other nations reject as illegal. The rest of the world has, hence, set the stage for a showdown at the world body ahead of its annual General Assembly. The administration on Saturday said that its triggering of the "snapback" mechanism in the UN Security Council resolution that enshrined the 2015 Iran nuclear deal had taken effect at 8 pm Eastern Time. Snapback means that international sanctions eased or lifted by the nuclear deal are reimposed and must be enforced by UN member states. That is 30 days after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo notified the council that Iran was in significant non-performance with its obligations under the accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA. "The United States took this decisive action because, in addition to Iran's failure to perform its JCPOA commitments, the Security Council failed to extend the UN arms embargo on Iran, which had been in place for 13 years," Pompeo said in a statement. "We initiated the snapback process to restore virtually all previously terminated U.N. Sanctions, including the arms embargo. The world will be safer as a result." The White House plans to issue an executive order on Monday spelling out how the US plans to enforce the restored sanctions. The US move, however, faces opposition from the other members of the Security Council. They say the US lost legal standing to invoke snapback when President Donald Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed American sanctions on Iran. The US, on the other hand, argues it retains the right to do it as an original participant in the deal and a member of the council. Those bans were either removed or set to expire under the terms of the deal in which Iran was granted billions of dollars in sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. China and Russia have been particularly adamant in rejecting the move. Even Britain, France and Germany said the sanctions relief provided by the nuclear deal will remain in place. Also, Trump plans to address Iran in a speech to the General Assembly's annual high-level meeting on Tuesday.

US says all UN sanctions on Iran restored. Other nations reject move

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The joint statement was issued after virtual IBSA foreign ministers meet.

The statement said: "expressing frustration with the slow pace of progress on Security Council reforms in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations process which lacks transparency in its working methods." &nbsp;

"We insist that the time has come to move towards a result-oriented process with provision for substantive negotiations based on a single comprehensive text in a formal setting," it added.

It must be remembered that 10 years after inter-governmental negotiations began, the negotiations remain in the informal stage. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but its conversation is considered "informal" in nature and United Nations General Assembly UNGA rule of procedure doesn't apply.&nbsp;

The statement said, "failure to reform the Security Council has serious implications for international peace and security", calling for, "significant and accelerated reform" which "is critical to ensure that this organ is more representative, effective and responsive, and remains capable of delivering on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter."

The statement also extended support for Africa at the high table. It said, "Africa must be equitably represented in a reformed Security Council, we reiterate our support for the representation of Africa in the Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories and express our unequivocal support for the Common African Position, as stated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration."

Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC.

India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, South African FM Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor and Brazilian FM Ambassador Fabio Marzano. During the virtual meet, ministers discussed issues like terror, climate change, sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and on-going COVID-19 situation.

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The joint statement was issued after virtual IBSA foreign ministers meet. The statement said: "expressing frustration with the slow pace of progress on Security Council reforms in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations process which lacks transparency in its working methods." "We insist that the time has come to move towards a result-oriented process with provision for substantive negotiations based on a single comprehensive text in a formal setting," it added. It must be remembered that 10 years after inter-governmental negotiations began, the negotiations remain in the informal stage. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but its conversation is considered "informal" in nature and United Nations General Assembly UNGA rule of procedure doesn't apply. The statement said, "failure to reform the Security Council has serious implications for international peace and security", calling for, "significant and accelerated reform" which "is critical to ensure that this organ is more representative, effective and responsive, and remains capable of delivering on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter." The statement also extended support for Africa at the high table. It said, "Africa must be equitably represented in a reformed Security Council, we reiterate our support for the representation of Africa in the Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories and express our unequivocal support for the Common African Position, as stated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration." Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC. India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, South African FM Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor and Brazilian FM Ambassador Fabio Marzano. During the virtual meet, ministers discussed issues like terror, climate change, sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and on-going COVID-19 situation.

India, Brazil, South Africa IBSA grouping issue joint statement calling for 'accelerated & comprehensive' UNSC reforms

8 member nations of the UNSC have urged Myanmar to ensure that the Rohingyas can participate in the general elections. Watch report.

8 UNSC members appeal to Myanmar: Appeal for Rohingya participation in general elections

Slamming Pakistan at United Nations Security Council, India on Thursday highlighted how UN listed cross-border terrorists are impacting child rights.&nbsp;

Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict, India in a statement said, "Terror networks spread their tentacles across borders threatening peace and stability. Children are worst affected as they live with a looming sense of fear and uncertainty and are often deprived of their right to education."

Without taking Pakistan's name directly India called on "member states" to "demonstrate the greater political will to hold the perpetrators of terrorism and their collaborators and sponsors, especially those sanctioned by the Council, to account, to fulfil Council’s child protection obligations."

The number of Pakistani nationals listed on the UN list are among the maximum. These include the likes of Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed who are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India.&nbsp;

India's statement urged the United Nations Security Council that "counter-terrorism needs to be translated into action" &amp; "terrorist outfits and individuals proscribed by the Council are directly or indirectly responsible for abusing child rights."

Explaining,"greater recognition and comprehensive action to counter threats to children posed by terrorist groups in different parts of the world."

Slamming Pakistan at United Nations Security Council, India on Thursday highlighted how UN listed cross-border terrorists are impacting child rights. Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict, India in a statement said, "Terror networks spread their tentacles across borders threatening peace and stability.

Slamming Pakistan at United Nations Security Council, India on Thursday highlighted how UN listed cross-border terrorists are impacting child rights. Speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict, India in a statement said, "Terror networks spread their tentacles across borders threatening peace and stability. Children are worst affected as they live with a looming sense of fear and uncertainty and are often deprived of their right to education." Without taking Pakistan's name directly India called on "member states" to "demonstrate the greater political will to hold the perpetrators of terrorism and their collaborators and sponsors, especially those sanctioned by the Council, to account, to fulfil Council’s child protection obligations." The number of Pakistani nationals listed on the UN list are among the maximum. These include the likes of Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed who are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India. India's statement urged the United Nations Security Council that "counter-terrorism needs to be translated into action" & "terrorist outfits and individuals proscribed by the Council are directly or indirectly responsible for abusing child rights." Explaining,"greater recognition and comprehensive action to counter threats to children posed by terrorist groups in different parts of the world."

UN listed cross-border terrorists impacting child rights: India

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. 
&nbsp; 
In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently."

Since the abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcation into 2 union territories in August of last year, Pakistan along with China tried to raise the matter 3 times.

The attempts have met with failure with informal closed-door discussions happening with no outcomes and other members of the council reiterating that Kashmir is a bilateral India Pakistan issue. The last time Kashmir was formally raised at UNSC was in 1965, according to UN records.

India in its statement also highlighted how Islamabad has attempted to "rebrand itself as contributing to international peace" but "unfortunately fails to recognize that it is globally known for being the fountainhead of international terror and the hub for terror syndicates."

A UN report earlier this year showed that around 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are operating in Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, the statement called on UNSC report should not be just "statistical compilation of events, a bland summary and listing of meetings and outcome documents" and must "highlight and analyze the measures that it has decided upon or taken to maintain international peace and security during the reporting period".

New Delhi pointed out how the report was "short of analysis on the UN peacekeeping operations" and since most peacekeepers are contributed by non-Council members "who put the lives of their troops at risk to serve the cause of international peace" a better partnership between the "Security Council and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) is needed"

The India Statement asked Security Council "to prove its credibility and improve its performance" as "performance assessment has become one of the focus areas at the United Nations'.

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently.

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently." Since the abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcation into 2 union territories in August of last year, Pakistan along with China tried to raise the matter 3 times. The attempts have met with failure with informal closed-door discussions happening with no outcomes and other members of the council reiterating that Kashmir is a bilateral India Pakistan issue. The last time Kashmir was formally raised at UNSC was in 1965, according to UN records. India in its statement also highlighted how Islamabad has attempted to "rebrand itself as contributing to international peace" but "unfortunately fails to recognize that it is globally known for being the fountainhead of international terror and the hub for terror syndicates." A UN report earlier this year showed that around 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are operating in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the statement called on UNSC report should not be just "statistical compilation of events, a bland summary and listing of meetings and outcome documents" and must "highlight and analyze the measures that it has decided upon or taken to maintain international peace and security during the reporting period". New Delhi pointed out how the report was "short of analysis on the UN peacekeeping operations" and since most peacekeepers are contributed by non-Council members "who put the lives of their troops at risk to serve the cause of international peace" a better partnership between the "Security Council and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) is needed" The India Statement asked Security Council "to prove its credibility and improve its performance" as "performance assessment has become one of the focus areas at the United Nations'.

Remove Kashmir from UNSC agenda permanently, says India

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