Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese is on a four-day visit to India. The focus is on boosting overall bilateral engagement in a range of areas, including trade, investment and critical minerals. Albanese is set to land in New Delhi later today, his first visit to India after becoming the prime minister in may last year. Australia is the largest supplier of iron ore to china - but is seeking to diversify its customers for critical minerals. Last month, the country blocked a Chinese investment in a rare earths miner on national interest grounds. India and Australia are security partners through the quad, which also includes the united states and japan. China seeks to undermine the rules-based order with a revisionist challenge of the status quo. After his India trip, the Australian prime minister will visit the U.S. For a bilateral meeting with joe Biden. Reports say Albanese is expected to sign a long-awaited pact to build a fleet of nuclear submarines during his U.S. Visit.

QUAD member Australia seeking to diversify investment partners | After India, Albanese to visit U.S.

It is PM Albanese's first bilateral visit to India since the Labour Party government was sworn in May 2022. The visit to India aims to further strengthen India-Australia bilateral relations.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese's 4-day India visit begins | Details |

Australian Prime minister Anthony Albanese will be on a four-day visit to India from the 8th of march. The visit will focus on boosting overall bilateral engagement in a range of areas, including trade, investment and critical minerals. It will be his first visit to India after becoming the prime minister in may last year. The government of Australia is looking to diversify trade and foreign investment partners. Business leaders across transport, resources, finance, higher education, architecture and energy will accompany Albanese to India. Remember, India is Australia's sixth-largest trading partner. Australia is the largest supplier of iron ore to china - but is seeking to diversify its customers for critical minerals. Last month, the country blocked a Chinese investment in a rare earths miner on national interest grounds. Albanese will watch the fourth test match of the border-Gavaskar trophy with Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi in the city of Ahmedabad.

Australian PM to visit India, likely to ink deal in rare earth mineral sector

The Italian Prime Minister is in India.. Giorgia Meloni is the first Italian PM to visit New Delhi in 5 years. The two nations are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. India's foreign ministry stated that the countries are looking to strengthen security, defence and economic relations.

India and Italy celebrates 75 years of diplomatic relations

Giorgia Meloni meets Indian PM Narendra Modi | First Italian PM to visit New Delhi in 5 years

Ahead of the one-year anniversary of Russia's war in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has landed in Kyiv on a surprise visit. This is his first visit to Ukraine since Russia invaded the European country on 24 February last year.

U.S President Biden's surprise Kyiv visit

What is Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi doing in China? Does the visit indicate the consolidation of an anti-American alliance?

Gravitas: What is Iran's President doing in China?

Indonesian President Joko Widodo met on Monday (January 9) with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and discussed the development of Indonesia's planned new capital, Nusantara, during bilateral talks.

Malaysia PM begins first state visit & meets Indonesian President

Israeli far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to Al-Aqsa Compound in Jerusalem has caused rage not just among Palestinians but even Western governments have warned that such moves threaten the fragile status quo of Jerusalem's holy site. Israel's new far-right national security minister visited the compound on Tuesday. Watch to know more.

WION Dispatch: U.S. leads criticism of Israeli Minister's visit to Al-Aqsa Compound

Saudi Crown Prince MBS is set to visit Pakistan later this month. During the visit, he is expected to announce investments & financial relief packages for the cash-strapped country. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Why is Saudi Crown Prince visiting Pakistan?

As the war rages on in Ukraine, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is headed to Russia for a bilateral visit. He will be holding talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar heads to Russia for bilateral visit

US top diplomat Antony Blinken is in Africa to woo the nations, which have largely steered clear of backing Washington against Moscow in the Ukraine war.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken lands in Africa two weeks after Russian FM Lavrov's visit

Reports claim China's president Xi Jinping will visit Saudi Arabia next week. The kingdom is planning a grand reception for Xi, unlike the muted welcome received by US president Joe Biden in July. What explains Saudi Arabia's eastern pivot? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping to visit Saudi Arabia?

Nepal's foreign minister met with his Chinese counterpart in Beijing on Wednesday. During the meeting, the duo discussed nine cooperation agreements focusing on cross-border railway and economic technical cooperation. However, contrasting statements were issued by China and Nepal.

Nepal foreign minister wraps up China visit

Pope Francis has taken off for a visit to Canada to apologise to indigenous survivors of abuse at residential schools run mostly by the catholic church. He will address a crowd of 15,000 people there.

Pope takes off for visit to Canada to address a crowd of 15,000 people

In a bid to strengthen defence and security ties, Australian defence Minister Richard Marles is in India on a four-day visit. Richard said, China is our bigges security anxiety and so is for India.

"China is our security anxiety and so is for India," says Australian defence minister

In a bid to strengthen defence and security ties, Australian defence Minister Richard Marles held talks with his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh. Marles is in India on a four-day trip.

Australian defence minister Richard Marles in India on a four-day visit

US President Joe Biden will make history next month with a direct flight between Israel and Saudi Arabia where he will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Molly Gambhir decodes Washington's foreign policy pivot on WION Fineprint

From 'Pariah' to US Partner: Biden to visit Saudi Arabia, Israel & West Bank

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit. The G7 summit is due to take place from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. 
&nbsp; 
High-level visits between India, and UAE have been taking place routinely. The last visit by the PM to UAE was in August 2019 during which he received the UAE’s highest award, the 'Order of Zayed’ conferred upon him by UAE leadership. The visit also witnessed the official launch of ‘RuPay Card’ in UAE and the release of a set of stamps commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Previously PM travelled to UAE in 2015 and 2018.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-secret-of-keeping-jetlag-away-during-busy-foreign-trips-revealed-416173">&nbsp;PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed</a>&nbsp;

In fact, PM was expected to travel to UAE earlier this year, to visit the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. &nbsp;This year has been important for both countries as they signed a key Free Trade Agreement or FTA pact. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India (after the US) with an amount of over US$ 30 billion for the year 2018-19. For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner in 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade).&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The diaspora forms the main pillar of ties. Indian expatriate community of approximately 3.4 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 35 per cent of the country’s population. 15% of the diaspora is in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the rest in 6 Northern Emirates including Dubai.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-uae-counterpart-to-hold-virtual-meet-trade-pact-to-be-signed-452989">PM Modi, UAE counterpart to hold virtual meet; Trade pact to be signed</a>

During the visit, PM Modi will pay his condolences on the demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa. India had sent its vice President Naidu as world leaders gathered in the country to pay homage. India had also announced a day of mourning with the national flag at half-mast. 
&nbsp; 
The visit of Indian PM Modi happens even as ties were tensed with Islamic countries last week over remarks by now suspended members of the ruling BJP party. The inflammatory remarks against the Prophet by suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma &amp; expelled leader Naveen Jindal had led to the summoning of Indian envoys and statements by over 15 Islamic nations. UAE also issued a statement, even as its neighbouring country Qatar was the first to issue a statement and summon the Indian envoy.

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Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit.

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the last week of this month. The visit will be part of his visit to Germany, where he will be going to take part in the G7 summit. The G7 summit is due to take place from 26 to 28 June 2022 at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. High-level visits between India, and UAE have been taking place routinely. The last visit by the PM to UAE was in August 2019 during which he received the UAE’s highest award, the 'Order of Zayed’ conferred upon him by UAE leadership. The visit also witnessed the official launch of ‘RuPay Card’ in UAE and the release of a set of stamps commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Previously PM travelled to UAE in 2015 and 2018. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed In fact, PM was expected to travel to UAE earlier this year, to visit the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. This year has been important for both countries as they signed a key Free Trade Agreement or FTA pact. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India (after the US) with an amount of over US$ 30 billion for the year 2018-19. For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner in 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade). The diaspora forms the main pillar of ties. Indian expatriate community of approximately 3.4 million is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 35 per cent of the country’s population. 15% of the diaspora is in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the rest in 6 Northern Emirates including Dubai. Also Read: PM Modi, UAE counterpart to hold virtual meet; Trade pact to be signed During the visit, PM Modi will pay his condolences on the demise of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa. India had sent its vice President Naidu as world leaders gathered in the country to pay homage. India had also announced a day of mourning with the national flag at half-mast. The visit of Indian PM Modi happens even as ties were tensed with Islamic countries last week over remarks by now suspended members of the ruling BJP party. The inflammatory remarks against the Prophet by suspended BJP leader Nupur Sharma & expelled leader Naveen Jindal had led to the summoning of Indian envoys and statements by over 15 Islamic nations. UAE also issued a statement, even as its neighbouring country Qatar was the first to issue a statement and summon the Indian envoy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi to travel to UAE this month

US President Joe Biden said that his Saudi Arabia visit is possible. He added that he will try to bring stability to the middle east.

Biden visit to bolster ties? US President Joe Biden says Saudi Arabia visit possible

Israel's national security adviser Eyal Hulata will be going to Washington next week. He will be meeting his White House counterpart Jake Sullivan. Talks are expected to focus on Israel's ties with Saudi Arabia.

Israeli NSA to visit the US next week, Biden's Israel trip may be discussed

Ahead of the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, six terrorists were killed in two different operations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in the Jalalabad area of Sunjwan in Jammu in an encounter led by a joint team of police and paramilitary forces. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police had a specific input about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a ‘cordon and search operation’ was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on the forces resulting in a gun-battle. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/two-arrested-terrorists-met-pak-army-major-who-is-seen-in-photo-with-iafs-abhinandan-report-472685" hreflang="en">2 terrorists held in India met Pak Army Major who is seen in photo with IAF's Abhinandan</a>

''Till now, two terrorists have been killed. Two AK-47 rifles, arms and ammunition, satellite phones (besides) some documents have been recovered. It seems like they were 'Fidayeen' attackers. Operation is underway,” said Mukesh Singh, ADGP, Jammu Zone. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the same operation, an assistant sub inspector of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was killed, and four other soldiers were injured. The chief education officer of Jammu ordered the closure of all the schools, which fall in a radius of 5 km of the encounter site. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another operation is underway in the Baramulla district of North Kashmir. The encounter, which had started on April 21, continues even after the killing of four terrorists in the gunfight. Security forces say another terrorist is hiding in the area. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | India: UK PM Boris Johnson at Rajghat, visits Gandhi memorial

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''Another terrorist killed (total four) in the Baramulla encounter. The operation is still in progress. Further details shall follow,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG, Kashmir.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has called it very successful as they said that they have managed to kill longest surviving terrorist commander of Lashker Toiba, Mohammad Yousuf Kantroo in the operation. He was among the top 10 wanted terrorists of the Valley. And was active since 2017 and associated with terror groups since 2000. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, six terrorists were killed in two different operations. Two terrorists were killed in the Jalalabad area of Sunjwan in Jammu in an encounter led by a joint team of police and paramilitary forces.

Ahead of the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, six terrorists were killed in two different operations. Two terrorists were killed in the Jalalabad area of Sunjwan in Jammu in an encounter led by a joint team of police and paramilitary forces. Jammu and Kashmir Police had a specific input about the presence of terrorists in the area after which a ‘cordon and search operation’ was launched. During the search, terrorists fired on the forces resulting in a gun-battle. Also Read: 2 terrorists held in India met Pak Army Major who is seen in photo with IAF's Abhinandan ''Till now, two terrorists have been killed. Two AK-47 rifles, arms and ammunition, satellite phones (besides) some documents have been recovered. It seems like they were 'Fidayeen' attackers. Operation is underway,” said Mukesh Singh, ADGP, Jammu Zone. In the same operation, an assistant sub inspector of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) was killed, and four other soldiers were injured. The chief education officer of Jammu ordered the closure of all the schools, which fall in a radius of 5 km of the encounter site. Another operation is underway in the Baramulla district of North Kashmir. The encounter, which had started on April 21, continues even after the killing of four terrorists in the gunfight. Security forces say another terrorist is hiding in the area. Watch | India: UK PM Boris Johnson at Rajghat, visits Gandhi memorial × ''Another terrorist killed (total four) in the Baramulla encounter. The operation is still in progress. Further details shall follow,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG, Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Police has called it very successful as they said that they have managed to kill longest surviving terrorist commander of Lashker Toiba, Mohammad Yousuf Kantroo in the operation. He was among the top 10 wanted terrorists of the Valley. And was active since 2017 and associated with terror groups since 2000.

Ahead of Indian PM Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir, six terrorists killed in two operations

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported.

The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing.

Earlier in the day, China congratulated Sharif for becoming the 23rd prime minister of Pakistan, saying that Beijing looks forward to building a "high quality" US $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)”.

As soon as it was made clear that Imran Khan would lose the no-confidence motion moved by the joint opposition led by Sharif on April 10, the Chinese state media projected that the all-weather ties between the two countries would get better under him than during Khan's government.

Sharif had spoken highly of China-Pakistan ties in his victory speech.

He spoke about the special relations with China, calling the country "the most faithful friend and a partner through thick and thin".

"No matter what happens, no one can deprive the two countries of their friendship. This friendship will last till the day of judgment," he said and announced to speed up work on CPEC projects.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-threat-letter-to-china-to-kashmir-issue-key-points-from-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharifs-address-470294" hreflang="en">From threat letter to Kashmir issue: Key points from Pak PM Sharif's address</a>

Meanwhile, immediately after assuming the office, Sharif on Tuesday cancelled two weekly-off days in the government offices.

He also announced changes in office timings. It will now start operating at 8 am instead of 10 am, reports ARY news.

The prime minister also issued directions for the implementation of relief measures announced by him yesterday in the National Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/man-with-corruption-cases-of-billions-of-rupees-imran-khan-on-shehbaz-sharif-470238" hreflang="en">Man with corruption cases of billions of rupees: Imran Khan on Shehbaz Sharif</a>

He has directed concerned authorities to ensure strict monitoring of Ramadan Bazars in order to ensure the provision of quality items to the people at reduced rates.

“No negligence in this regard will be tolerated,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan has a new Prime Minister

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(With inputs from agencies)

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported. The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing.

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported. The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing. Earlier in the day, China congratulated Sharif for becoming the 23rd prime minister of Pakistan, saying that Beijing looks forward to building a "high quality" US $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)”. As soon as it was made clear that Imran Khan would lose the no-confidence motion moved by the joint opposition led by Sharif on April 10, the Chinese state media projected that the all-weather ties between the two countries would get better under him than during Khan's government. Sharif had spoken highly of China-Pakistan ties in his victory speech. He spoke about the special relations with China, calling the country "the most faithful friend and a partner through thick and thin". "No matter what happens, no one can deprive the two countries of their friendship. This friendship will last till the day of judgment," he said and announced to speed up work on CPEC projects. Also read | From threat letter to Kashmir issue: Key points from Pak PM Sharif's address Meanwhile, immediately after assuming the office, Sharif on Tuesday cancelled two weekly-off days in the government offices. He also announced changes in office timings. It will now start operating at 8 am instead of 10 am, reports ARY news. The prime minister also issued directions for the implementation of relief measures announced by him yesterday in the National Assembly. Also read | Man with corruption cases of billions of rupees: Imran Khan on Shehbaz Sharif He has directed concerned authorities to ensure strict monitoring of Ramadan Bazars in order to ensure the provision of quality items to the people at reduced rates. “No negligence in this regard will be tolerated,” the prime minister was quoted as saying. Watch | Gravitas: Pakistan has a new Prime Minister (With inputs from agencies)

Newly elected Pak PM Sharif to visit China, Saudi Arabia: Report

Syrian President embarked to the UAE, making it a first visit by a Syrian President to an Arab nation in 11 years. Meanwhile, the US says it is disappointed by Assad's visit.

Syrian President visits the UAE, making it a first visit to an Arab nation in 11 years

Pics: Bridge collapses in Pittsburg just hours before Biden's visit

On a two-day visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday. The leader will meet the top leadership of the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The occasion will also mark the 65th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the two nations. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-tough-balancing-act-oil-tanks-for-india-compensation-for-chinese-fertiliser-442858" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka's ploy: Oil tanks for India, compensation for Chinese fertiliser</a>

Arriving from the Maldives, Wang will meet President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister G L Peiris, said Foreign Secretary Jayanath Colombage. &nbsp;

This visit comes as the relations between the two countries are under stress. The issue of contaminated organic fertiliser being provided to Sri Lanka by a Chinese company has been the bone of contention in last some months. This attempt can be seen as a damage control by the Chinese. &nbsp;

During the visit, new Chinese investment opportunities might get sealed by Sri Lanka, Colombage said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/foreigners-marrying-lankan-nationals-need-clearance-from-defence-ministry-opposition-slams-move-440406" hreflang="en">Foreigners marrying Lankan nationals need clearance from defence ministry; opposition slams move</a>

Earlier, a Sri Lankan parliamentarian has shot off a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping to stop its economic invasion of the island nation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a 45-point letter to the Chinese president, Sri Lankan lawyer and Member of Parliament Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe said that most of the projects carried out with Chinese funds have been wasteful and large commissions have been paid to the corrupt politicians and officials to secure such projects. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On a two-day visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday. The leader will meet the top leadership of the country. The occasion will also mark the 65th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

On a two-day visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday. The leader will meet the top leadership of the country. The occasion will also mark the 65th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between the two nations. Also Read | Sri Lanka's ploy: Oil tanks for India, compensation for Chinese fertiliser Arriving from the Maldives, Wang will meet President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister G L Peiris, said Foreign Secretary Jayanath Colombage. This visit comes as the relations between the two countries are under stress. The issue of contaminated organic fertiliser being provided to Sri Lanka by a Chinese company has been the bone of contention in last some months. This attempt can be seen as a damage control by the Chinese. During the visit, new Chinese investment opportunities might get sealed by Sri Lanka, Colombage said. Also Read: Foreigners marrying Lankan nationals need clearance from defence ministry; opposition slams move Earlier, a Sri Lankan parliamentarian has shot off a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping to stop its economic invasion of the island nation. In a 45-point letter to the Chinese president, Sri Lankan lawyer and Member of Parliament Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe said that most of the projects carried out with Chinese funds have been wasteful and large commissions have been paid to the corrupt politicians and officials to secure such projects. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaches Sri Lanka for two-day visit

Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla is on a two-day visit to Myanmar. This is the first high-level outreach from India since the Myanmar military coup.

Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla visits Myanmar

As a part of the parliamentary delegation, some lawmakers from France visit Taiwan amid tensions with China.

French lawmakers part of parliamentary delegation embarks to Taiwan amid China tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a short visit to India on December 6. He is expected to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the evening during which the focus of the talks will be the ongoing delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems.&nbsp;

Putin will be in India for a period of six to seven hours.

Russian envoy Nikolay R Kudashev on Friday said that India and Russia will achieve “military understandings” during his visit.&nbsp;

The day will begin with defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoygu convening the Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation. Also, external affairs minister Jaishankar will be meeting his counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/military-understandings-will-be-achieved-during-putins-india-visit-russian-envoy-kudashev-433934">Also read |&nbsp;‘Military understandings’ will be achieved during Putin’s India visit: Russian envoy Kudashev</a>

After this, there will be an inaugural meeting of the newly instituted 2 + 2 mechanism.

The 21st India-Russia Annual Summit is expected to begin in the afternoon.&nbsp;This is being considered as an eventful day for India-Russia ties.

Earlier, Jaishankar had said that the relation between India and Russia have been among the steadiest&nbsp;in the world after the second world war.

During the meeting,&nbsp;both India and Russia, are expected to seal a few deals.&nbsp;

"One can expect a set of agreements and deals (to be signed). One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, science and technology, education, arts and culture, and also some military understandings, reflecting the growing level of confidence," said Kudhashev during his conversation with WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a short visit to India on December 6. He is expected to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the evening during which the focus of the talks will be the ongoing delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay a short visit to India on December 6. He is expected to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the evening during which the focus of the talks will be the ongoing delivery of the S-400 missile defence systems. Putin will be in India for a period of six to seven hours. Russian envoy Nikolay R Kudashev on Friday said that India and Russia will achieve “military understandings” during his visit. The day will begin with defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoygu convening the Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation. Also, external affairs minister Jaishankar will be meeting his counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. Also read | ‘Military understandings’ will be achieved during Putin’s India visit: Russian envoy Kudashev After this, there will be an inaugural meeting of the newly instituted 2 + 2 mechanism. The 21st India-Russia Annual Summit is expected to begin in the afternoon. This is being considered as an eventful day for India-Russia ties. Earlier, Jaishankar had said that the relation between India and Russia have been among the steadiest in the world after the second world war. During the meeting, both India and Russia, are expected to seal a few deals. "One can expect a set of agreements and deals (to be signed). One could easily await some new understandings in the spheres like connectivity, space, science and technology, education, arts and culture, and also some military understandings, reflecting the growing level of confidence," said Kudhashev during his conversation with WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin to arrive in India on December 6 for a short visit

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." &nbsp;

Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." &nbsp;

WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-lunar-lander-japanese-rover-to-explore-moon-in-lupex-mission-says-jaxa-official-431774" hreflang="en">Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official</a>

&nbsp;

WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-foreign-secretary-harsh-shringla-says-carefully-assessing-trade-ties-with-china-431720" hreflang="en">India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China</a>

&nbsp;

WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? &nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis.

Pablo Tettamanti, deputy foreign minister, Argentina has called for a "better UN" and other multilateral organisations like WTO amid challenges like Covid crisis. The minister is in India for the sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations. Speaking to WION Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Tettamanti said, "We think whole machinery has to be revamped. We have to discuss this as there are different views and details have to be put somehow." Foreign office consultations took place between Riva Ganguly Das, Secretary (East), India and Argentine deputy foreign minister on Wednesday. According to MEA, "Both countries recalled their mutual assistance during Covid and reiterated their joint resolve to continue mutual cooperation in their fight against the pandemic and post-pandemic recovery." WION: What is the key focus of your Delhi visit? Pablo Tettamanti: I came for our bilateral regular meetings with the foreign affairs ministry of India. We have a strategic association and created a mechanism by which ministry of foreign affairs meet regularly. Covid had made it very difficult. We had a meeting last year, which was virtual and I took advantage of the opening up to come to India to meet my counterpart Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das and was honoured to meet EAM Jaishankar and discuss our bilateral relationship. Also Read: Indian lunar lander, Japanese rover to explore Moon in LUPEX mission, says JAXA Official WION: How will you characterise the relationship between the two countries? Pablo Tettamanti: Officially, we have a strategic association but it goes beyond that. There is a common view of many of the global issues and agenda, and we have same kind of approach too. It has been true in different periods of history, Argentina and India have always had a common vision as to how we believe things have to be solved. There are issues in which we have to find common ground but in general, we have an approach, which is very similar and I think that is the basis. We could see that in discussions. WION: What is the key outcome of dialogue in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have a series of mechanism that we have to put again, moving on. We will have meetings to discuss this issue but to be more specific, we have already been able to discuss MoUs on mining, which should show results in investments to the benefits of the two sides. We have been discussing how we can improve trade, possibility of cooperation in scientific and technological field, how to respond to Covid, having exchanges, etc. WION: How has been the cooperation to deal with Covid and people-to-people movement? Pablo Tettamanti: We are accepting international travellers who are fully vaccinated. We have been working on similar vaccines, both in India and Argentina. Many people, including myself have received Covishield vaccine so this is something that is naturally recognised. There is paper work, which is normal things, PCR test, etc. But all in all, we are going back to normalisation. In both countries, tourism was hit hard by Covid. But it is also something both countries plan to increase, as it crucial to recovery on economic side. Also Read: India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla says 'carefully' assessing trade ties with China WION: Engagement at multilateral organisations like UN? Pablo Tettamanti: Before Covid and afterwards, we have been talking about multilateralism. We think whole machinery is to be revamped. We have to discuss this. Though there are different views and details have to be somehow put in proportion and see how it works out. We have to work for better United Nations, WTO, etc. We both are members of the G20 and have voiced the concern of the emerging economies. We believe there is a possibility of our points of views being discussed and heard. With India, we have a common approach. WION: Your views on the Indo-Pacific vision? Was there any conversation in Delhi? Pablo Tettamanti: We have been exchanging views on how we can respond to challenges we face. We have seen the common ground, we believe in dialogue, human rights, negations and we need to put terrorism behind us. Realities are different in one region and another. Latin America faces more Pacific situation but approach is the same and we have exchanged views.

Have to work for a better UN, says Argentina's deputy foreign minister during India visit

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6. The one-day visit will see number of pacts being signed, especially between navies of the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Russia has started supplying S-400 air defence system to India, the first division will be delivered by the end of 2021," said Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Director Dmitry Shugaev. FSMTC is managed by the president of the Russian Federation. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-summits-on-the-anvil-japan-in-2022-india-in-2023-australia-in-2024-429119" hreflang="en">Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024</a>

Putin last visited India in 2018 for the annual summit. Interestingly, it was during that visit, the contract for S400 system was signed between India and Russia. The visit by Russian president will be his second only foreign visit this year, the first one being to Geneva for summit level meeting with US President Joe Biden. &nbsp;

Defence forms main pillar of the India-Russia relationship as Moscow is New Delhi's largest defence partner. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The manufacture and co-production of four Project 1135.6 Frigates, manufacture in India of assault rifle - AK-203, through 100% indigenisation, additional supplies of Su-30 MKI, as well as the MiG-29s, additional supplies of the MANGO ammunition and VSHORAD systems are among the key projects. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/even-as-air-quality-deteriorates-india-reports-lowest-active-covid-cases-since-march-2020-429165" hreflang="en">Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020</a>

Earlier, Russia's top defence export body, Rosoboronexport, had expressed its readiness to give India technology for production of defence equipment. The company has worked together with Indian authorities for licensed production of multirole Su-30MKI fighter jets in India, the modernisation and transfer of the Vikramaditya aircraft carrier to the Indian Navy. &nbsp;

Rosoboronexport has also offered to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Remember, India and Russia in 2019 signed an intergovernmental agreement for setting up Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture to manufacture the AK-203 assault rifles. The project will see production of Russia's iconic assault rifles in India with 100% localisation.&nbsp;

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6.

Russia has started the delivery of S400 air defence system to India ahead of President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi. Putin is going to visit the country for the annual India-Russia summit on December 6. The one-day visit will see number of pacts being signed, especially between navies of the two countries. "Russia has started supplying S-400 air defence system to India, the first division will be delivered by the end of 2021," said Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Director Dmitry Shugaev. FSMTC is managed by the president of the Russian Federation. Also Read: Quad summits on the anvil: Japan in 2022, India in 2023, Australia in 2024 Putin last visited India in 2018 for the annual summit. Interestingly, it was during that visit, the contract for S400 system was signed between India and Russia. The visit by Russian president will be his second only foreign visit this year, the first one being to Geneva for summit level meeting with US President Joe Biden. Defence forms main pillar of the India-Russia relationship as Moscow is New Delhi's largest defence partner. The manufacture and co-production of four Project 1135.6 Frigates, manufacture in India of assault rifle - AK-203, through 100% indigenisation, additional supplies of Su-30 MKI, as well as the MiG-29s, additional supplies of the MANGO ammunition and VSHORAD systems are among the key projects. Also Read: Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020 Earlier, Russia's top defence export body, Rosoboronexport, had expressed its readiness to give India technology for production of defence equipment. The company has worked together with Indian authorities for licensed production of multirole Su-30MKI fighter jets in India, the modernisation and transfer of the Vikramaditya aircraft carrier to the Indian Navy. Rosoboronexport has also offered to train Indian specialists for the AK-203 Kalashnikov project in Amethi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Remember, India and Russia in 2019 signed an intergovernmental agreement for setting up Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture to manufacture the AK-203 assault rifles. The project will see production of Russia's iconic assault rifles in India with 100% localisation.

Ahead of Putin visit, Russia begins delivery of S400 air defence system to India

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