India ‘s foreign minister Dr S. Jaishankar has discussed the issue with Laos Prime Minister and the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand, reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that he had called on the Prime Minister of Laos and during their meeting, he had taken up the issue of the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centres.
Jaishankar also discussed relief and rescue of Indians with the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand.
In a post on X, he said, “During my call on the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, took up the issue of the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers. Appreciate the ongoing cooperation of Lao PDR government in the rescue and relief of our citizens. Also discussed the matter with the Foreign Ministers of Cambodia and Thailand.”
On the sidelines of ASEAN events in Vientiane, Laos, on Friday, Jaishankar held meetings with his counterparts from South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and the European Union.
The EAM met with Cho Tae-yul, the Foreign Minister of South Korea and held a wide ranging conversation on Special Strategic Partnership.
“A pleasure to meet RoK @FMChoTaeyul today in Vientiane. Wide ranging conversation on Special Strategic Partnership. Our shared convergences in the Indo-Pacific region is also opening new avenues of cooperation,” Jaishankar posted on X.
He also met with Josep Borrell Fontelles, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The leaders discussed enhancing the India-EU ties in areas of trade, clean energy transition and advanced technologies.
EAM Dr S. Jaishankar meets EU counterpart Josep Borrell
The EAM held conversation with Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and thanked Singapore for steering ASEAN-India relations.
The Foreign Minister also met Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. He congratulated her stint as Foreign Minister and appreciated her contribution towards India-Indonesia and India-ASEAN relations.
Jaishankar met Malaysian Foreign Minister, Mohamad Haji Hasan, and discussed the initiatives in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
The ministers also exchanged views on several regional and international issues of common interest and concern. (ANI)
Kamala Harris’s campaign hit back saying “America can do better than the bitter, bizarre, and backward looking delusions of criminal Donald Trump.”
Former President Donald Trump ramped up his attacks against Vice President Kamala Harris, the likely Democrative nominee for the US presidential poll, in front of a conservative audience in Florida, claiming that she doesn’t like Jews and Israel.
Trump criticised Harris for declining to attend Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent address to Congress.
“She doesn’t like Jewish people, she doesn’t like Israel,” he alleged about Harris whose husband, Doug Emhoff, is Jewish.
In his Friday’s address at the Turning Point USA’s Believers’ Summit in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump asked the crowd, “Does everyone here understand the radical left ideology Kamala supports is really militantly hostile towards Americans of faith?”
Trump termed Harris as “the most incompetent, unpopular and far-left vice president in American history.”
The Republican nominee also called Harris a “bum”. “She was a bum three weeks ago,” Trump said adding. “She was a bum, a failed vice president.”
Kamala Harris’s campaign immediately responded to “Trump’s strange speech.”
“Donald Trump… insulted the faith of Jewish and Catholic Americans, lied about the election (again)… bragged about repealing Roe, proposed cutting billions in education funding, announced he would appoint more extremist judges, revealed he planned to fill a second Trump term with more criminals like himself, attacked lawful voting,” read a statement put out by her campign.
“America can do better than the bitter, bizarre, and backward looking delusions of criminal Donald Trump. Vice President Kamala Harris offers a vision for America’s future focused on freedom, opportunity, and security,” James Singer, a spokesperson for Harris’s campaign, said in a statement on Friday night.
Meanwhile, in his Florida address, Trump focused on reaching conservative voters and promised attendees that in a second term, we would once again “appoint rock solid conservative judges who will protect religious liberty”.
He also announced that he “just took off the last bandage” after his assassination attempt nearly two weeks ago. Trump also said that he will return to Butler, Pennsylvania, at the scene of the attempt on his life on July 13 to hold a “big and beautiful” rally to pay a tribute to firefighter Corey Comperatore, who died that day when struck by gunfire.
“We want to thank each and every one of the believers in this room for your prayers and your incredible support, I really did appreciate it,” said Trump at the event.
Trump asserted he “accepted” an “apology” from the FBI after Bureau confirmed he had been shot by a bullet during an assassination attempt earlier this month. The FBI confirmed Trump had been clipped in the ear by a gunman’s bullet, on July 13 at a Pennsylvania rally.
“What struck former President Trump in the ear was a bullet, whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces, fired from the deceased subject’s rifle,” the bureau said in a statement. (ANI)
US Vice President Kamala Harris officially declared her 2024 presidential candidacy, assuring that her people-powered campaign will secure victory in November.
US Vice President Kamala Harris signed the forms, officially declaring her candidature for the US presidential elections, assuring that her people’s-powered campaign will win in November.
Harris took to social media X, and emphasised that in November, her people-powered campaign will win.
She further reiterated that she would work hard to earn every vote.
“Today, I signed the forms officially declaring my candidacy for President of the United States. I will work hard to earn every vote. And in November, our people-powered campaign will win,” Kamala Harris said in her post.
The upcoming US presidential election on November 5 will see Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, following Biden’s endorsement.
Earlier on Friday, former US President Barack Obama publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the US presidential post after Joe Biden exited the race recently.
Obama said he and former US First Lady Michelle Obama will do everything they can to make sure Harris wins the presidential election in November.
In a post on X, Barack Obama said, “Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend @KamalaHarris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support. At this critical moment for our country, we’re going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in November. We hope you’ll join us.”
Earlier on Wednesday, Actor and prominent Democratic fundraiser George Clooney publicly endorsed Harris for the US Presidential post.
While addressing the nation from the Oval Office earlier this week, US President Joe Biden thanked Kamala Harris, calling her a “great vice president.”
“She’s experienced. She’s tough, and she’s capable. She’s been an incredible partner to me and a leader for our country. Now the choice is up to you, the American people,” Biden said.
Moreover, White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean Pierre emphasised that no one is more qualified to step in as the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee than US Vice President Kamala Harris. (ANI)
Paris is hosting the Olympics for the third time after 100 years and the city is leaving no stone unturned to make it a big success.
Let the Games begin! Amid thunderclouds and heavy rains, the 2024 Paris Olympics got off to a stunning start as the Organising Committee (OC) made sure that the world got to see why the French capital is called ‘la Ville Lumiere’ — the city of light.
For the first time in the history of the Olympic Summer Games, the Opening Ceremony didn’t take place in a stadium; it was held in the heart of the city along its main artery: the Seine river.
The event started with representatives from Greece leading the athletes from nearly 200 countries in the Parade of the Nations on boats on the river.
And it was the American singer and songwriter Lady Gaga who set the pulses racing with a mesmerising show, setting the stage for more scintillating performances to come in what is expected to be a nearly three-hour ceremony showcasing the French culture and heritage.
The global superstar sang the French classic ‘Mon truce en plume’ by Zizi Jeanmaire and received thunderous cheers from the fans who had lined up the riverbank since the afternoon.
The ceremony was bold, original and no doubt unique. Taking on a new guise, the parade of athletes was held on the Seine with boats for each national delegation. These boats were equipped with cameras to allow television and online viewers to see the athletes up close.
A majority of the 10,500 athletes crossed through the centre of Paris, the overall playing field for the Games on which these competitors will display their sporting prowess over the next 16 days. The parade came to the end of its 6-km route in front of the Trocadero.
Eighty giant screens and strategically placed speakers allowed everyone to enjoy the magical atmosphere of this show reverberating throughout the French capital.
(Source: X@Paris2024)
Athletes onboard the parade boats got glimpses of some of the official Games venues, including Parc Urbain La Concorde, the Esplanade des Invalides, the Grand Palais, and lastly the Iena Bridge where the parade will come to a stop before the ceremony’s finale at the Trocadero.
But the best part of the ceremony was when legendary Zinedine Zidane passed the Olympic Flame to Rafael Nadal. The crowd went berserk and shouted their lungs out, cheering for the two stars.
The torch was then taken down the Seine in a boat with Nadal, Serena Williams, Carl Lewis, and Nadia Comaneci.
At last, the Games were declared open.
Rain pain, no way!
Rain tried to spoil the mood of the organisers but the fans remained on their seats to see the history in the making.
Notably, Paris is hosting the Olympics for the third time after 100 years and the city is leaving no stone unturned to make it a big success.
Indian contingent led by P.V. Sindhu and Sharath Kamal
As many as 78 Indian athletes and officials from 12 disciplines participated in the parade. Women athletes were wearing blue sarees while the men were in blue blazers and blue trousers.
Action begins on Saturday
Indian athletes will be in action on the first day of the quadrennial event in seven sports disciplines including hockey, shooting and badminton.
As per the schedule for Saturday (July 27), Indian rower Balraj Panwar will compete in the men’s single sculls (Heat 1) at 12:30 p.m. IST.
In shooting, Elavenil Valarivan & Sandeep Singh and Arjun Babuta & Ramita Jindal will compete in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team Qualification at 12:30 p.m. followed by 10m Air Pistol Men’s Qualification, in which Arjun Singh Cheema and Sarabjot Singh would be in action.
Manu Bhaker and Rhythm Sangwan will also start their campaign on Saturday with the 10m Air Pistol Women’s Qualification at 4 p.m.
In tennis, Rohan Bopanna and Sriram Balaji will take on the French pair of Fabian Reboul and Edouard Roger Vasselin in the men’s doubles first-round match at 3:30 p.m.
In badminton, Lakshya Sen will be up against Kevin Gua Cordon in the men’s singles group stage match at 7:10 p.m.
In the men’s doubles category, India’s top pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will lock horns with France’s Lucas Corvee and Ronan Labar in their opening match at 8:30 p.m.
In the women’s doubles category, Ashwini Ponappa and Tanisha Crasto will play against the Korean pair of Kim So Yeong and Kong Hee Yong in their first group stage match at 11:50 p.m.
Harmeet Desai will start his campaign against Jordan’s Yaman Zaid Jor Abo in the men’s singles table tennis event in the preliminary round at 7:15 p.m.
After the historic bronze finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team will aim to change the colour of their medal as they start their journey against New Zealand in a Pool B match at 9 pm (IST).
In boxing, Preeti Pawar will be up against Vietnam’s Vo Thi Kim Anh in the women’s 54kg round of 32 clash at 11:40 pm.
Escape the heat and spark your summer with endless energy at Oman’s premier indoor sports festival at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. This is a fantastic opportunity to stay fit, have fun, and connect with your community, reports VINOD RAGHAVAN
July is the month of summer and mercury touches 40+ degrees centigrade in the Sultanate of Oman, hitting badly sports enthusiasts, the health conscious and physical fitness regulars have to curtail their routine outdoor activities as unable to bear the scorching heat.
But, no more, as Sports Spark! has arranged all your favourite sports under one cool-roof, to enjoy fitness fun at Muscat’s premier indoor summer sports festival at the sprawling Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) during this summer for a month, until August 24.
However, get ready to dive into your favourite sports and enjoy fitness fun at Muscat’s premier indoor summer sports festival, Sports Spark!
The event, organised by the OCEC in collaboration with Muscat Governorate, with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth as a strategic partner, and logistical support from Sabco Sport, is poised to become a leading destination for locals looking to exercise and stay fit this summer, the organisers revealed at a press briefing at the sprawling newly decked sports venue.
Sports Spark is designed to provide the community with an exciting opportunity to stay active and healthy during the summer months. With a wide range of sports and fitness activities, participants of all ages can engage in their favourite physical activities in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment.
From football to cricket, volleyball or basketball, Table Tennis, Archery, Board games, Running tracks for athletes, Tennis amongst other sports available at Sports Spark with professional coach and trainers guiding participants through each sport. The event will include a daily morning summer camp from 9 am to 1 pm for children aged 6-14 and will be open until midnight daily, with activities available upon registration on the Sports Spark website, said Dr Hashil Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group and added, most the games are free and rest are charged a minimum.
Hosted and organised by the OCEC in collaboration with Muscat Governorate and OMRAN Group with strategic partnership of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and logistical support from Sabco Sport, this event highlights the shared commitment from various organisations in Oman to promote accessible physical activity and community engagement. With each facility created in collaboration with local SMEs and sports associations, the OCEC is confident that this event will appeal to a wide range of individuals, from children to well-known athletes, he said.
“We believe in the importance of promoting health and wellness among our community members,” commented Dr Mahrouqi, “Sports Spark is a fantastic initiative that encourages the community to stay active and healthy through a variety of sports and fitness activities. By supporting this event, we aim to provide a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to showcase their facilities and services, thereby contributing to the growth of our local economy. It is also a chance for families and friends to come together and enjoy shared activities, strengthening the bonds within our community.”
Engineer Said Al Shanfari, CEO of the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, remarked: “We are thrilled to host such a fantastic event at the OCEC, underscoring our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Sports Spark perfectly aligns with our mission to promote a healthy and active lifestyle in a secure environment, offering a diverse array of indoor sports and fitness options that keep the community engaged, energized, and healthy. Many of these activities are free to access, including our fitness corner and running track, ensuring everyone can benefit. I look forward to seeing everyone explore our facilities and register on our website to book their next fitness or sports session.”
Al Shanfari further said, “I am also deeply grateful to organise this event in collaboration with the Muscat Governorate and our strategic partner, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, with additional support from OMRAN Group and Sabco Sport. The long-lasting benefits for both physical and mental well-being are immense, and we are proud that these companies recognise the power of Sports Spark in fostering such positive outcomes.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer gives a press conference at the European Political Community (EPC) Summit bringing together world leaders at Blenheim Palace. Picture by Tim Hammond / No 10 Downing Street
Britain is back in the EU fold to tackle its key issues of safeguarding borders, security, and economic growth. The caravan will march on despite the heckles from the Reform Party, Nigel Farage, and a section of Tories … writes Anasudhin Azeez
Here is bad news for the Brexiteers. Whether you like it or not, Britain is limping back to its roots to become part of the greater European family. The recent European Political Community meeting at Blenheim Palace indicates the new Labour government’s intention to be part of the European family rather than stay isolated as “Little Britain” to address two key issues threatening its existence: security and immigration. With Donald Trump swinging the US electorate to regain the White House, it’s a valid reason for Europe to consider self-reliance on security.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer took the initiative to host the fourth meeting of the European Political Community at Blenheim Palace, a place steeped in the memories of Sir Winston Churchill, a controversial figure for the children of the empire but an inspiration for Europhiles. The meeting of the European Union leaders and representatives from the wider European Community is bad news for hardcore Brexiteers like Nigel Farage and Rishi Sunak. However, they fail to recognise the ground realities regarding the broader issues of security and immigration plaguing the United Kingdom.
The meeting was held at the Palace in a cordial atmosphere. They discussed the economy, security, and immigration. However, the elephant in the room was President Trump and his resurgent MAGA campaign. Trump is now supported by charismatic Yale graduate J.D. Vance. The meeting discussed a scenario: if America suddenly tires of helping defend Europe and Russia strikes, then what? If Trump wins, it will be a 12-year reign of Trumpism. Vance is Trump’s heir apparent, and a sitting president has many advantages to retain power, provided he does not falter on security and the economy.
Vance embodies a badge of the true American story that will resonate with Rust Belt voters. He believes the American elites betrayed communities like his. International trade, he says, is one of the culprits: American jobs being shipped to China while fentanyl is shipped back to America. Communities sent their children to die in Iraq and Afghanistan. He sees aid to Ukraine and NATO membership in the context of such exploitation: American taxpayers being bled to fight foreign wars or subsidize European military underspending. He led the campaign in the US Congress to halt the $61 billion Ukraine aid package. Although it failed, it caused fateful delays, allowing Russia to capture Avdiivka and force Ukrainian troops to retreat miles from the Donetsk region.
Trump accuses Zelensky of fleecing Americans. Vance accuses Europe of fleecing US taxpayers’ money to safeguard their backyards. Vance is practically a Mini-Me of Trump.
The changed equations in the US are prompting Europe to rethink its defence strategies. Only the United Kingdom and France can lead the Europeans in defending themselves; they are the only serious military powers in Europe. Here is an opportunity for Starmer to shape Europe’s post-Brexit defense policy. But is it a good idea to do this through the EU?
Britain wants to reset its relationship with the EU and wider Europe, as well as address international and global issues. Eighty years on from the D-Day landings and the Liberation of France, the leaders remembered the immense common sacrifices both countries have made to defend their shared values and protect their societies. As fellow members of the G7, G20, NATO, and permanent members of the UN Security Council, the UK and France continue to work together to provide global leadership in an era of renewed geopolitical instability.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer meets French President Emmanuel Macron for the Anglo French Summit at Blenheim Palace. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street
They are now committed to continuing to invest in the European Political Community format to bring together Europe’s democracies and contribute to regional stability and security through political dialogue and concrete cooperation.
“We cannot let the challenges of the recent past define our relationships of the future,” said Starmer before the summit. “That is why European security will be at the forefront of this government’s foreign and defence priorities, and why I am focused on seizing this moment to renew our relationship with Europe.
“The European Political Community will fire the starting gun on this government’s new approach to Europe, one that will not just benefit us now, but for generations to come, from dismantling the people-smuggling webs trafficking people across Europe to standing up to Putin’s barbaric actions in Ukraine and destabilizing activity across Europe.”
Britain is back in the EU fold to tackle its key issues of safeguarding borders, security, and economic growth. The caravan will march on despite the heckles from the Reform Party, Nigel Farage, and a section of Tories.
During the phone call, the Obamas told Harris that they’ll “do everything” to get her through the upcoming US elections and into the Oval Office….reports Asian Lite News
Former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama, on Friday, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidential race.
“Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend Kamala Harris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States and that she has our full support. At this critical moment for our country, we’re going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in November. We hope you’ll join us,” Barack Obama posted on X along while also sharing the video of the conversation.
During the phone call, the Obamas told Harris that they’ll “do everything” to get her through the upcoming US elections and into the Oval Office.
“I am proud of you. This is going to be historic,” Michelle Obama told Harris.
Expressing her gratitude, Harris said, “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I am looking forward to doing this with the two of you.”
Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend @KamalaHarris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support. At this critical moment for our country, we’re going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in… pic.twitter.com/0UIS0doIbA
“The words that you have spoken and the friendship that you have given over all these years mean more than I can express. So thank you both; it means so much to me…And we’re gonna have some fun with this, too,” she added.
The Obamas are among the last major Democratic party figures to formally endorse Kamala Harris in her presidential bid after US President Joe Biden dropped out of the race under mounting pressure from those sceptical of his chances.
Harris is believed to have already picked the endorsements from the majority of the Congressional Democrats and Governors.
The Governors backing her included most of those who were expected to throw their hats in the ring, such as Gavin Newsom of California, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan.
ASEAN countries are a key part of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indo-Pacific Vision, highlighted by PM Modi’s SAGAR initiative….reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated Friday that ASEAN remains the cornerstone of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and the Indo-Pacific vision.
Addressing the opening session of the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in the Laotian capital of Vientiane, the EAM stated that it was “encouraging” to note that India-ASEAN partnership continues to acquire ever more dimensions with each passing year.
“For India, ASEAN is the cornerstone of its Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific vision that was thereafter built on it. For us, political, economic and security cooperation with ASEAN is of the utmost priority. So too are people-to-people linkages, that we are constantly seeking to expand,” Jaishankar said in his opening remarks at the meeting.
The 57th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Vientiane is being attended by over 1000 delegates, including foreign ministers and representatives from 31 countries.
“While our achievements are substantial, our ambitions must always remain high,” Jaishankar told the gathering.
The EAM also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jakarta in September 2023 to attend the 20th ASEAN-India Summit and 18th East Asia Summit, the first major event for the grouping since the elevation of India-ASEAN relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.
“The priority that India attaches to ASEAN and EAS platforms is evident from Prime Minister Modi visiting Jakarta last year on the very eve of our own G20 Summit. He had announced a 12-point plan that has been largely acted upon,” Jaishankar said on Friday.
The EAM called the meeting as “productive”, stating that digital, defence, maritime, connectivity, security, health and traditional medicine and cultural heritage preservation continue to be priority areas for India-ASEAN cooperation.
“Also spoke about the situation in Myanmar, keeping the Sea Lines of Communication open and free, Quad’s outlook on ASEAN & AOIP and the conflict in Gaza,” he said.
ASEAN countries remain an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and key partner of its Indo-Pacific Vision underlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) vision.
From Vientiane, the EAM will travel to Tokyo to participate in the next meeting of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ on July 29 along with the Foreign Ministers of Australia, and the United States.
Wickremesinghe’s lawyers placed a monetary bond before the Election Commissioner for his candidacy in the forthcoming election…reports Asian Lite News
Hours after the Election Commission announced the date for the presidential elections in Sri Lanka, incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday announced that he would be contesting the polls as an independent candidate.
Wickremesinghe’s lawyers placed a monetary bond before the Election Commissioner for his candidacy in the forthcoming election.
Announcing the election on September 21, the poll panel asked the presidential candidates to deposit money till August 14.
A candidate from a recognised political party has to deposit 50,000 Sri Lankan Rupees while a candidate nominated by an elector has to deposit 75,000 Sri Lankan Rupees, the Election Commission said.
Wickremesinghe took office as the President in July 2022 when his predecessor Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country and later resigned amid a severe economic crisis. His term will end on November 17.
Publishing the gazette notification, the Election Commission announced that the presidential poll has to be conducted not less than one month after and no more than two months before the expiration of the President’s term.
Wickremesinghe ran the country with the majority parliamentary mandate of the Rajapaksa party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).
The SLPP, which has broken into several factions now, is undecided whether to support Wickremesinghe or not. While a section of those holding cabinet portfolios insist on supporting Wickremesinghe as the common candidate, the successor of the Rajapaksa dynasty, Namal Rajapaksa, eldest son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has accused Wickremesinghe of dividing his father’s party.
The SLPP is likely to announce its decision on Monday.
While “pro-China” Rajapaksas worked closely with Beijing, even building some multi-million dollar white elephant projects with Chinese loans, which critics claimed were connected to corruption, Wickremesinghe turned to the immediate neighbour India and Japan for support.
India came to the rescue of Sri Lanka, which was suffering from a severe financial crisis with no essentials like food, fuel and medicine, with more than $4 billion in monetary aid while Japan started some major funded projects which were suspended during the Rajapaksa regime.
Indian Navy’s Spokesperson hailed the tri-service team’s accomplishment as “a proud moment for India”…reports Asian Lite News
Two teams representing the Indian Armed forces have planted India’s tri-colour on the summit of Europe’s highest mountain, Mt. Elbrus, during the Third ‘Climb for Peace’ event of the International Military Sports Council (CISM).
Lt. Colonel Manoj Joshi led the six-member Tri-Services team that climbed the 5,642-metre mountain in Russia on Thursday.
The team included a woman Navy mountaineer, Shristi Thakur.
The other team comprised three Army personnel.
In a post X, the Indian Navy’s Spokesperson hailed the tri-service team’s accomplishment as “a proud moment for India”.
Thirteen countries, including Russia, China and Brazil, were represented in the ‘Climb for Peace’ event, according to Russia’s Defence Ministry.
Mt. Elbrus, which also ranks as the 10th highest mountain in the world is located in southern Russia in the Russian Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria.
The CISM, based in Brussels, organises various sporting events for the armed forces of its 141 member countries.
