Tag: India

  • India’s Rising Stature In Global Diplomacy: How Jaishankar’s Iran Visit, PM Modi’s Phone Call With Putin Is Changing Narratives |

    NEW DELHI: In the ever-evolving global order, India is fast emerging as a pivotal ‘World Partner,’ actively contributing to solutions for global crises. Whether it’s the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the oil crisis, Israel-Hamas tensions, or the most recent turmoil in the Red Sea, India’s global diplomacy is taking the center stage every where.

    Seas In Turmoil

    Commercial ships navigating the Red Sea face threats from rebels supported by Iran, amplifying tensions. Simultaneously, the Gulf of Aden witnessed strikes on Houthi positions by the US and UK. India, with the Arabian Sea at its doorstep, feels the impact. In the past 24 hours, Prime Minister Modi made a phone call to Russia’s President, while in Tehran, Foreign Minister Jaishankar addressed the escalating crisis.

    Jaishankar’s Strategic Discussions in Iran

    In Tehran, Jaishankar emphasized the critical importance of securing the Red Sea, urging swift action against maritime threats. The route from the Red Sea to the Suez Canal is vital for global trade, and India’s rerouting of ships increases travel time but ensures safety. Meanwhile, Qatar’s refusal to send LNG tankers through the Red Sea raises concerns about heightened costs.

    Collaborative Efforts By The US, India, And Iran

    Jaishankar conveyed India’s concern to Iran about attacks on ships near its waters, emphasizing the direct impact on India’s energy needs and economic interests. His visit coincides with discussions with the US Secretary of State on the Red Sea crisis. Diplomatically active, India engages with Iran on issues ranging from Ukraine and Afghanistan to the situation in Gaza. The discussions extend to the strategic Chabahar Port, strengthening the robust ties between the two nations.

    A Unified Global Stand

    Despite challenges, India navigates geopolitics with finesse. PM Modi’s conversation with Vladimir Putin and Jaishankar’s talks in Iran underscore the collaborative approach to addressing shared concerns. Both leaders express mutual wishes for success in upcoming elections in their respective countries. The recent strengthening of military and technological cooperation between India and Russia further solidifies their alliance.

    In conclusion, India’s diplomatic leadership in today’s world assures the global community that collective efforts can bring security and prosperity. The events in the Red Sea serve as a testament to India’s role as a responsible global player, ensuring stability and progress for all.

  • Maldives Says India Agreed To ‘Fast-Track Withdrawal’ Of Forces | world news

    MALE: India and Maldives have “agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel” from the island nation, according to Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The first meeting of the High-Level Core Group between the Maldives and India took place in Male’ on Sunday.

    “During the meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, both sides reviewed the existing bilateral cooperation. Discussions were held on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including development cooperation,” the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release.

    “Both sides expressed willingness to intensify cooperation and agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel,” it also said. “It was agreed that the second meeting of the High-Level Core Group will be held at a mutually convenient time,” it added.

    Earlier in the day, the Ministry of External Affairs said that India and the Maldives discussed finding a mutually workable solution to continue the operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives.

    India and Maldives also discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation and expediting the implementation of ongoing projects. Maldives local media today also reported that Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has asked the Indian government to withdraw the Indian troops from the island nation before March 15.

    Notably, the removal of Indian troops in the Maldives was the main campaign of Muizzu’s party. Currently, there are around 70 Indian troops, along with Dornier 228 maritime patrol aircraft and two HAL Dhruv helicopters, stationed in the Maldives.

    On the second day of assuming office, Muizzu officially requested the Indian government to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives. In December last year, President Muizzu claimed that, after dialogue with the Indian government, an agreement was reached to withdraw Indian military personnel.

  • India, Maldives Agree To ‘Fast-Track Withdrawal Of Indian Troops’: Maldives Foreign Ministry | India News

    MALE: In a major diplomatic development, India and the Maldives have reached a consensus to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation. The decision emerged from the first meeting of the High-Level Core Group between the two countries, held in Male’ on Sunday.

    BILATERAL COOPERATION REVIEW AND DISCUSSIONS

    At the meeting hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, both sides meticulously reviewed their existing bilateral cooperation. The discussions encompassed a broad spectrum of mutual interests, with a particular focus on development cooperation, as detailed in the press release by the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    WILLINGNESS TO INTENSIFY COOPERATION

    Expressing a shared commitment to intensify cooperation, both nations agreed on the swift withdrawal of Indian military personnel. The official statement emphasized this joint decision, and plans were set for the second meeting of the High-Level Core Group at a time convenient for both parties.

    AVIATION PLATFORMS AND ONGOING PROJECTS

    Earlier in the day, the Ministry of External Affairs disclosed that discussions also revolved around finding a mutually workable solution to sustain the operation of Indian aviation platforms, crucial for providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives. The talks further extended to enhancing bilateral cooperation and expediting the implementation of ongoing projects.

    MALDIVES PRESIDENT’S MARCH 15 DEADLINE FOR TROOPS WITHDRAWAL

    Local media in the Maldives reported that President Mohamed Muizzu urged the Indian government to withdraw its troops from the island nation before March 15. Notably, this move aligns with Muizzu’s party’s campaign promise, making the removal of Indian troops a focal point.

    FOLLOWING THROUGH ON CAMPAIGN PROMISE

    Muizzu, soon after assuming office, officially requested the Indian government to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives. Last December, he claimed that, after a constructive dialogue with the Indian government, an agreement had been reached to withdraw Indian military personnel, marking a significant development in the diplomatic relations between the two nations.

  • ‘We May Be Small But No One Has License To Bully Us’: Maldives President Amid Row With India | India News

    MALE: Returning from his high-profile five-day state visit to China, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu took an apparent dig at India, emphasizing that the size of his nation doesn’t grant others the authority to bully them. Muizzu’s statement follows a diplomatic dispute with India over derogatory social media posts by three Maldivian ministers targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    Oceanic Sovereignty

    President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, asserted Maldives’ significance, highlighting its extensive exclusive economic zone of 900,000 square km. He declared, “This ocean does not belong to a specific country. This (Indian) Ocean also belongs to all countries situated in it,” in a veiled reference to India.

    ‘We Aren’t In Anyone’s Backyard’

    Addressing the media on his return, Muizzu emphasized, “We aren’t in anyone’s backyard. We are an independent and sovereign state,” reaffirming Maldives’ autonomy amid regional tensions.

    Strategic Agreements With China

    During his visit to China, Muizzu engaged in discussions with President Xi Jinping, culminating in the signing of 20 agreements. The joint statement highlighted mutual support in safeguarding core interests, emphasizing China’s backing for Maldives’ sovereignty and opposition to external interference.

    China’s Financial Assistance To Male

    China has extended substantial support to Maldives, granting USD 130 million in assistance. Muizzu revealed that the funds would primarily be allocated to the redevelopment of roads in the capital, Male. This support follows the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

    China’s Ambassador to Maldives, Wang Lixin, outlined three key factors contributing to the robust ties between the two nations: mutual political trust, alignment with President Xi’s initiatives, and adherence to the principles of extensive consultation, joint construction, and shared benefits.

    Diplomatic Challenges With India

    Muizzu’s visit to China was overshadowed by a diplomatic row with India, stemming from derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers against Prime Minister Modi. Additionally, a report by the EU Election Observation Mission accused the ruling coalition of deploying anti-India sentiments and spreading disinformation in the 2023 presidential elections.

    Despite the diplomatic tensions, China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million agreement for an integrated tourism zone in Hulhumale’ and the construction of 30,000 social housing units in Rasmale’. Further collaborations include the development of a 100-bed tertiary hospital in Vilimale’, signaling an expanded and sustained cooperation between the two nations.

    Agreement On Flight Operations

    During the visit, an agreement was reached to permit Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian, to conduct domestic flight operations in China. This move adds a new dimension to the growing partnership between the two countries.

    The significance of this collaboration becomes even more pronounced considering the historical context, with India’s substantial contributions to the development of Maldives, including the establishment and enhancement of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Male.

  • ‘Normal Relations With China Not Possible If…’: S Jaishankar Talks Tough On Border Issues |

    NEW DELHI: In a candid revelation on the strained relations between India and China, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Saturday emphasized that the resolution of border issues is paramount for the restoration of normalcy in diplomatic ties.

    ‘Border Solution Essential For Normal Relations’

    EAM Jaishankar, addressing the complexities surrounding India-China relations, stated, “I have explained to my Chinese counterpart that unless you find a solution on the border, if the forces will remain face-to-face and there will be tension, then you should not expect that the rest of the relations will go on in a normal manner, it is impossible.”

     

    #WATCH | On India & China relations, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, “…I have explained to my Chinese counterpart that unless you find a solution on the border, if the forces will remain face-to-face and there will be tension, then you should not expect that the rest of the relations… pic.twitter.com/ej06WcCdzz
    — ANI (@ANI) January 13, 2024

     

    Deterioration In India-China Ties Over The Past Three Years

    Expressing a desire for improved relations with China, Jaishankar highlighted the unfortunate turn of events over the last three years, attributing the strain to China’s failure to uphold agreements at the border. He asserted, “We would certainly like our relation with China to be better than what it is today, but things have taken a turn for the worse in the last 3 years, not because of us. They have chosen not to observe the agreements at the border.”

    Jaishankar pointed out the disregard for mutual agreements in 2020, emphasizing that the foundational principles of the relationship were not adhered to. He stated, “In 2020, agreements were disregarded; mutuality at which this relationship is predicated has not been followed.”

    India’s Changing Global Role

    Asserting India’s growing influence on the world stage, Jaishankar emphasized that no major global issue is decided without New Delhi’s consultation. He highlighted India’s transformation, becoming the fifth-largest economy and underlining the nation’s evolving global perception.

    Addressing concerns about India’s participation in groups with conflicting interests, Jaishankar emphasized India’s independence and the need to manage its interests by engaging with diverse nations. He stated, “Our nature is to be independent. We cannot and we should not be part of somebody else’s subsidiary or enterprise.”

    Quad And BRICS: Balancing Conflicting Interests

    Discussing India’s involvement in Quad and BRICS, Jaishankar explained that India, being a 5000-year-old civilization, must navigate its interests independently. Quad aims to secure a rules-based global order, while BRICS focuses on enhancing economic cooperation among member nations.

    Transformative Decade For India

    Jaishankar reflected on the transformative decade for India, highlighting the country’s rapid development in infrastructure, education, and digitalization. He underscored the world’s increasing interest in India, citing the rise in talent and attracting substantial foreign investments.

    Looking Ahead: The Next 25 Years

    In conclusion, Jaishankar echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Amrit Kaal’ and envisioned the current decade as the foundation for the next 25 years of India’s growth and global influence.

  • ‘A Major Power’: Why Is China’s Global Times Praising India’s Progress Under PM Modi? |

    New Delhi: China’s Global Times has lauded India’s evolving global stature under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Zhang Jiadong, Director of the Center for South Asian Studies at Fudan University, Shanghai, notes India’s substantial advancements in economic growth, social governance, and foreign policy over the past four years. The Global Times recognizes India’s strategic confidence, attributing it to the nation’s proactive efforts in shaping a compelling “Bharat narrative.” The article emphasizes India’s departure from traditional Western-centric democratic ideals, now spotlighting the distinctive “Indian feature” of democratic politics.

    “In the political and cultural spheres, India has moved from emphasizing its democratic consensus with the West to highlighting the ‘Indian feature’ of democratic politics.” This shift signifies India’s ambition to break free from its historical colonial legacy and emerge as a global influencer both politically and culturally.

    India’s Economic Resilience And Trade Reorientation

    India’s economic resilience is spotlighted, particularly its robust growth and urban governance improvements. Zhang notes a pivotal change in India’s approach to trade discussions with China, shifting focus from China’s measures to reduce trade imbalances to India’s burgeoning export potential. “For example, when discussing the trade imbalance between China and India, Indian representatives earlier used to primarily focus on China’s measures to reduce the trade imbalance. But now they are placing more emphasis on India’s export potential.”

    Foreign Policy Triumphs Under PM Modi

    The article applauds Modi’s foreign policy strategy, commending India’s multi-alignment approach. India’s adept management of global relationships, including strengthened ties with the US, Japan, and Russia, is highlighted. Notably, India’s nuanced stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict underscores its evolving great power strategy. “Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power, he has advocated for a multi-alignment strategy, promoting India’s relations with the US, Japan, Russia and other countries and regional organisations,” the Global Times article stated

    A Rapid Shift Towards Multipolarity

    Since PM Modi assumed office, India has strategically aligned itself with key global players, transitioning from multi-balancing to multi-alignment. The article underscores the unprecedented speed of India’s transformation towards becoming a pole in the multipolar world, a feat rarely witnessed in international relations history. “India has always considered itself a world power. However, it has only been less than 10 years since India shifted from multi-balancing to multi-alignment, and now it is rapidly transforming toward a strategy of becoming a pole in the multipolar world. The speed of such changes is rarely seen in the history of international relations.”

    India: A New Geopolitical Force

    In conclusion, Zhang asserts that a transformed, stronger, and more assertive India has emerged as a significant geopolitical factor demanding consideration from nations worldwide. As India takes centre stage on the global platform, its strategic achievements reverberate across diplomatic, economic, and cultural spheres, marking a major milestone in the nation’s trajectory.

  • Indian Army To Deploy Apache Attack Helicopters In Jodhpur Near Pakistan Border

    The Indian Air Force already has a fleet of 22 Apache helicopters deployed at both western and northern borders and the Army inductions would take the joint inventory to 28. 

  • WATCH: Masood Azhar Dead? Twitter Flooded With Blast Video; Netizens React |

    Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are abuzz with claims that India’s most wanted terrorist Masood Azhar has been killed in a blast carried out by unknown men in Pakistan. The social media sites are flooded with videos and photos with netizens reacting hilariously to the development.

    “BIG BREAKING NEWS – As per unconfirmed reports, a Most wanted terrorist, Kandhar hijacker Masood Azhar, has been killed in a bomb explosion by Unknown Men at 5 am,” said a user.

    BIG BREAKING NEWS – As per unconfirmed reports, Most wanted terrorist, Kandhar hijacker Masood Azhar, has been kiIIIed in a bomb expIosion by  at 5 am. pic.twitter.com/NCsntm0XTP
    — Oxomiya Jiyori (@SouleFacts) January 1, 2024

    BIG BREAKING NEWS – As per unconfirmed reports, Most wanted terrorist, Kandhar hijacker Masood Azhar, has been kiIIIed in a bomb expIosion by UNKNOWN MEN at 5 am 

    He was going back from Bhawalpur mosque. UNKNOWN MEN working even on New Year day 

    He was the chief of Terror… pic.twitter.com/XG97TMmIE8
    — Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) January 1, 2024

    “After Dawood Ibrahim, now unknown assailants have sent India’s most wanted Terror!st and Kandahar hijacker Masood Azar to 72 hoor by blasting a bomb at 5 in the morning on this New Year. Thank you “ Unknown men” for the New Year gift,” said another user.

    #BigBreaking After Dawood Ibrahim, now unknown assailants have sent India’s most wanted Terror!st and Kandahar hijacker Masood Azar to 72 hoor by blasting a bomb at 5 in the morning on this New Year.

    Thank you “ Unknown men” for the New Year gift .#MasoodAzhar pic.twitter.com/RtjRlrVlRU


    — P!YU$H S!NGH (@SpeaksKshatriya) January 1, 2024

    Maulana Masood Azhar killed by unknown people in Pakistan.

    LKFC Rana Arfa Saba with 786 others: pic.twitter.com/tXhWCr30eB
    — rae (@ChillamChilli) January 1, 2024

    Kandhar hijacker,Chief of Terror group Jaish-E-Mohammad, Masood Azhar has been killed in a bomb explosion by ‘Unknown Men’
    pic.twitter.com/sV8gw4n003
    — Kadak (@kadak_chai_) January 1, 2024

    2023 was an example, see the new style of unknown men in 2024…

    Most wanted terrorist, Kandhar hijacker Masood Azhar, has been Horrified in a bomb expIosion by UNKNOWN MEN at 5 am.

    Hopefully unknown men will continue giving gifts this year too.pic.twitter.com/UZa6mhCyBT
    — Pandit Balkrishna Dwivedi (@Balkrishnagurh) January 1, 2024

    Masood Azhar, has been kiIIIed in a bomb expIosion by UNKNOWN MEN. #UnknownMan #MasoodAzhar pic.twitter.com/6SsVUebOey


    — Savlon Bhoi (@First_follow_me) January 1, 2024

    Earlier in November 2023, Azhar’s right hand Maulana Rahimullah Tariq was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Pakistan. Several wanted terrorists have been eliminated recently in Pakistan by unknown men. While Pakistan has failed to nab any culprits so far, it believes that Indian spy agency RAW is behind the killings.

    Masood Azhar has been key conspirator behind numerous terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament attack, the 2005 Ram Janambhoomi temple attack in Ayodhya and the Pulwama attack on men of Indian armed forces in February 2019. Azhar was reportedly living under the protective custody of the Pakistani deep state in Islamabad.

  • ‘Wish Our Friends Every Success…’: Russian President Putin On Lok Sabha Polls 2024

    Putin also said that Russia is gratified that despite the global turmoil, the relationship between New Delhi and Moscow has been progressing incrementally.

  • 280 Indians Out Of 303 Onboard Grounded Charter Plane Allowed To Fly Out Of France

    Every individual onboard, including a 21-month-old toddler, had remained confined within the airport terminal since Thursday.