The two leaders discussed relations as well as Parliamentary exchanges during the talks….reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met Tulia Ackson, the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania, on Tuesday in New Delhi.
The two leaders discussed relations as well as Parliamentary exchanges during the talks.
“Glad to meet President, Inter-Parliamentary Union and Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania @TuliaAckson this afternoon,” Jaishankar wrote in a post on X.
“Discussed relations as well as Parliamentary exchanges. Exchanged views on development challenges of the Global South as well as reformed multilateralism,” it added.
Earlier today, the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Speaker of the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Tulia Ackson, called on Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at the Parliament House Complex.
Birla expressed hope that Dr Ackson’s visit would further enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.
Birla emphasized that India and Tanzania share a long-standing and friendly relationship, and he hoped that Dr Ackson’s visit would serve to strengthen these relations further.
With an outlook to enhance parliamentary cooperation between India and Tanzania, Birla felt that regular exchanges of parliamentary delegations and ongoing discussions on common interests were vital.
Birla also proposed the establishment of Zonal Training Centres for Parliamentary Studies, Training, and Capacity Building to support democratic institutions globally.
Lok Sabha speaker Birla also took to his official X handle and said, “Had a warm interaction with Dr. Tulia Ackson, President of IPU Parliament and Speaker, National Assembly of Tanzania. I mentioned about the glorious democratic journey of India and our commitment to mainstream women through milestone legislations like ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Vidheyak.”
In another post, Birla added, “Also shared thoughts on strengthening cooperation between Parliament of India and IPU. Hoped that through IPU, we will be able to make democratic institutions more meaningful in the world. Both of us reaffirmed our commitment to cement parliamentary cooperation between India and Tanzania.”
At the outset, Birla extended a warm welcome to the delegation on behalf of the Parliament of India and the Indian people.
Recalling his brief interaction with the IPU President on the sidelines of the recently concluded BRICS Conference, he expressed joy at being able to welcome her to the Parliament of India to witness firsthand the proceedings of the Budget Session.
He said, “The Budget Session is one of the most critical sessions of our Parliament, where the government’s financial proposals are meticulously reviewed, debated, and approved by the House.” (ANI)
The EAM will be in Laos from July 25-27 to participate in the Foreign Ministers’ Meetings under the ASEAN framework …reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to hold significant discussions with his counterparts from several Southeast nations besides foreign ministers of Australia, Japan and the United States, over the next few days at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ gathering in the Laotian capital of Vientiane and the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo.
The EAM will be in Laos from July 25-27 to participate in the Foreign Ministers’ Meetings under the ASEAN framework in the format of ASEAN-India, East Asia Summit(EAS) and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).
The 57th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) will be attended by over 1000 delegates, including foreign ministers and representatives from 31 countries.
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.
As many as 25 ministerial meetings are being hosted by Laos in its capacity as 2024 ASEAN Chair under the theme of ‘ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience’ from July 22 to 27.
“The visit underlines India’s deep engagement with and the importance India attaches to the ASEAN-centred regional architecture, our strong commitment to ASEAN unity, ASEAN centrality, the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and taking forward the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Tuesday.
“It is of particular significance that this year marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy which was announced by Prime Minister at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014,” it added.
In Vientiane, EAM Jaishankar will not only be holding bilateral meetings with Saleumxay Kommasith, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Laos, but also with his counterparts from other countries on the margins of the ASEAN-related meetings.
The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and foreign ministers of several other countries will also be in Vientiane for the Asean meetings.
From Laos, 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.
“The Ministers will take forward discussions held during the last meeting in New York in September 2023 and exchange views on developments in the Indo-Pacific region, and review progress on Quad initiatives and working groups,” the MEA stated.
“The Ministers would discuss regional and international issues, and guide future collaboration to achieve the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region by addressing contemporary priorities of the region through delivery of public goods,” it ministry detailed.
During the Tokyo visit, EAM Jaishankar is also scheduled to hold discussions with his Japanese counterpart Yoko Kamikawa to further strengthen the growing partnership between the two countries.
The EAM, who is on a two-day visit to Mauritius, held extensive discussions with PM Pravind Jugnauth on various aspects of bilateral ties…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has launched the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Mauritius.
The launch, which took place on Wednesday, testifies to “the close cooperation between our countries, especially in the important sector of health,” the foreign affairs ministry said.
The EAM, who is on a two-day visit to Mauritius, held extensive discussions with PM Pravind Jugnauth on various aspects of bilateral ties, including the development partnership, defence and maritime cooperation, economic and trade ties, and people-to-people linkages.
“Delighted to inaugurate along with Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Mauritius,” EAM Jaishankar said in a post on social media platform X.
“This Aushadhi Kendra is the delivery of the promise made by PM Narendra Modi earlier this year,” he added.
On the India-Mauritius health partnership project, the foreign minister said that it “will supply cost-effective, Made-in-India medicines to augment public healthcare and enhance well-being”.
In addition, Jugnauth and the EAM virtually inaugurated 12 India-assisted community development projects, as well as a Mediclinic in Grand Bois.
During the visit, Jaishankar also presented Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards to the first two 7th-generation Mauritian citizens and handed over a royalty cheque for the sale of nautical charts, as per the bilateral MoU on sales of navigational charts.
“The visit of EAM underscores the importance India attaches to Mauritius as an important pillar of India’s Vision SAGAR, and ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy,” the ministry said.
It also reaffirms “the continued commitment of both countries to strengthening their multi-dimensional bilateral relationship and deepening their close people-to-people ties,” it added.
Dr S. Jaishankar recalled that he had the privilege of calling on Mauritius PM Jugnauth and conveying the greetings of PM Modi…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s consistent and continued support for Mauritius in its quest for progress, and expressed pride in being a partner of Mauritius in its journey towards modernity.
EAM Jaishankar is on a two-day official visit to Mauritius. He made the remarks at the inauguration of projects and the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Mauritius in Port Louis, in the presence of Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth.
This marks his first bilateral visit to Port Louis after being re-appointed in the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
“India is truly proud to be a partner of Mauritius in your journey towards modernity and progress,” Jaishankar said in his remarks.
“Mauritius is one of the first countries that I am visiting in my current term as External Affairs Minister. It underscores the strength and depth of our bilateral ties. It is also an opportunity to underline India’s unwavering commitment to its special and enduring partnership with Mauritius,” he added.
Jaishankar further recalled that he had the privilege of calling on Mauritius PM Jugnauth and conveying the greetings of PM Modi. “I also told the Prime Minister that the people of India appreciated very deeply his presence as the Modi government was sworn in for the third time, last month,” he said.
Jaishankar reiterated that during his meeting with the Mauritius PM, they discussed various aspects of bilateral ties, including the Development Partnership, Defence and Maritime Corporation, economic and trade ties, and people-to-people linkages.
“I reiterated India’s consistent and continued support for Mauritius in its quest for progress and prosperity. After all, our ties with Mauritius benefit from four Indian priority foreign policy approaches,” the EAM said.
Jaishankar added that Mauritius is part of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, of our Vision SAGAR, of our Africa Forward Initiative, as well as of our commitment to the Global South. “In addition, we share the closest of bonds from history and kinship,” he said.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties, Jaishankar recalled President Draupadi Murmu’s visit to Mauritius this year as the chief guest of Mauritius National Day celebrations
“As announced then, I was honoured today to hand over the first Overseas Citizen of India cards to two very fine specimens of seventh-generation Indian origin Mauritians. This special carve-out for Mauritius further demonstrates our special and enduring ties,” he said.
Emphasising that India-Mauritius relations have actually blossomed into a robust and multifaceted partnership, Jaishankar said that it serves as a role model for India’s successful development collaboration abroad.
“…I am privileged to join him tomorrow, in inaugurating the Mediclinic in Grand Bois, built with Indian grant assistance, adding to a list of signature projects here. I will also visit another Indian assisted project, the Civil Service College in Moka, which will be ready for inauguration soon,” he noted.
Highlighting the community development projects, Jaishankar underscored that they have virtually inaugurated 12 of them today, and with this, 37 out of 96 such community projects have become operational in the span of just one year.
“Eight more, I understand, will be inaugurated in the next two months in Rodrigues and Agalega,” he added.
On space cooperation, he said that it has been translated into a concrete project with the exchange of Project Plan Document between India’s ISRO and Mauritius MRIC.
“We look forward to its early implementation so as to launch a satellite for Mauritius,” EAM said.
Jaishankar expressed pleasure in handing over the royalty payment cheque of 1.3 million Mauritian rupees towards revenues earned from the sale of Mauritian nautical charts produced by our joint hydrography service.
“This maritime collaboration is now nearly two decades old and has added value to our multifaceted cooperation,” he stressed.
He said that both nations will support the Mahatma Gandhi Institute in digitising the documented records of indentured workers, as well as provide training to MGI staff through the National Archives of India.
They also agreed to renew the term of the ICCR Chair in Sanskrit and Indian Philosophy at the MGI for another five years, Jaishankar said.
Highlighting the issue of Chagos, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for Mauritius.
“India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations,” he said.
Jaishankar’s visit to Port Louis comes around a month after PM Jugnauth visited India for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with his new cabinet and Council of Ministers. (ANI)
Jugnauth lauds scope of India-Mauritius space cooperation
Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth said that the overall scope of space cooperation between India and Mauritius will foster a new era, that would allow the flow of data relating to the territory.
He made the remarks at the inauguration of projects and the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Mauritius in Port Louis. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was present on the occasion. Pravind Jugnauth spoke about his meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
He said, “This morning, I had a bilateral meeting with His Excellency, Dr Jaishankar. During this, we had truthful discussions on the future contours of a strategic partnership between Mauritius and India. A moment ago, we proceeded with an e-inauguration of 12 high-impact community development projects which will benefit the entire population.”
Speaking about the exchange of project plan document for India-Mauritius joint satellite between ISRO and MRIC, Jugnauth said, “Following the launching ceremony, we had exchange of instruments, cooperation which relate to development of National institute for curriculum research, Mauritius for the Mauritius Institute of Education, the digitisation of the Indian immigration archives at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, and the Chair for Sanskrit and Indian philosophy at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, the exchange of the project plan document for India-Mauritius joint satellite between the Indian Space Research Organisation and Mauritius Research and Innovation Council.”
He stressed that Mauritius remains committed to maximise the use of renewable energy as mentioned in the renewable energy roadmap 2030.
Stressing that space cooperation will foster a new era, Jugnauth said, “The overall scope of the India-Mauritius space cooperation will foster a new era, which will allow the flow of data pertaining to our territory, the establishment of India-Mauritius space portal providing value-added services and will unlock new avenues for the utilisation of space technologies. Mauritius remains committed to maximise the use of renewable energy as laid out in the renewable energy roadmap 2030. I know we can count on India’s support in achieving these objectives.”
He recalled his participation at the G20 Summit held under India’s Presidency in Delhi in September last year.
Jugnauth said, “Invitation extended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi which allowed me to represent Mauritius at 2023 G20 summit, held in New Delhi provided our republic with a high-level platform to voice our concerns and ambitions regarding the various challenges posed by climate change.”
He announced that the Mauritius government has setup a committee to devise a set of guidelines and a master plan to revive the Ganga Talao spiritual sanctuary compound into a religious and cultural hub.
Mauritius PM said, “You will recall that during the recent of President Droupadi Murmu, it was announced that the government of India will support Mauritius in redevelopment of the sacred Ganga Talao spiritual sanctuary compound into religious and cultural hub. In that regard, I am pleased to announce that the government of Mauritius has setup a committee to devise a set of guidelines and masterplan to revive the sacred place. The government of India will help us in implementing the project.”
Stating that Kazakhstan has also carried forward the spirit of that Joint Statement, Jaishankar also laid emphasis on the importance of implementation of these statements…reports Asian Lite News
Stating that terrorism is a major challenge faced by the world today, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has to play a major role in the region’s security.
In an interview with Kazinform News Agency in Astana, Kazakhstan, the EAM said that SCO’s priority is to fight against the three evils — Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism.
“There is no doubt that the major challenge faced by the world today is terrorism. It has become a threat to regional and global peace, and it demands urgent action from all of us. In this aspect, I am happy that Kazakhstan during their Chairmanship have negotiated an updated program to combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism, which was adopted in Astana Summit,” he said.
“Fight against the three evils- Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism- is a priority in SCO,” EAM Jaishankar added.
He further said that some joint statements were adopted on theme during India’s presidency of SCO last year.
Stating that Kazakhstan has also carried forward the spirit of that Joint Statement, Jaishankar also laid emphasis on the importance of implementation of these statements.
“During the New Delhi Summit last year, one of the two Joint Statements adopted was on ‘Countering Radicalization leading to Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism’. The statements included various elements of radicalization — including ideology, media campaigns, as well as radical and terrorist content on internet,” the Foreign Minister said.
“Kazakhstan, during their Chairmanship, carried forward the spirit of that Joint Statement. The updated program to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism is critical and timely. But I want to emphasize that what is more important is the actual implementation of the program that we have now successfully drawn up, which includes unambiguous commitment by all the Member States in getting rid of all forms and manifestations of terrorism in the region, including cross-border terrorism,” he further stated.
Jaishankar, represented India at the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) held under Kazakhstan’s Presidency in Astana.
He delivered remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The EAM also held several bilateral meetings and engagements with counterparts and other global leaders.
Emphasising SCO’s role in the region’s security, Jaishankar said SCO as an organization should be allowed to fully utilize its potential, and also highlighted the theme of SCO Summit ‘Towards a SECURE SCO’ in 2023 under India’s presidency.
“In fact, India’s priorities for the Chairmanship last year were on the theme ‘Towards a SECURE SCO’ — with SECURE being an acronym which stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment,” the Foreign Minister said.
“When we say regional security in the context of SCO, the most important issues that stand out is terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. Today, after decades of taking measures against terrorism in global forums, including through the UNSC, terrorism continues to be a threat to the region. The UN designated terror outfits are still functioning in the region,” he added.
He further said that combating terrorism requires a very comprehensive approach, not just against the perpetrators of heinous acts of terrorism, but also against the facilitators, financiers and sponsors of terrorism.
“They all need to be identified and punished,” he said.
Jaishankar said Regional Anti-Terrrorist Structure (RATS) has a reasonable standing to propose measures against terrorism in the region.
“We stand ready to strengthen SCO mechanisms in this front. I hope that the proposed Universal Centre to be established within the RATS in Tashkent, along with the other specialized centers under the Universal Centre, will grow to become foremost anti-terrorist structure in the region,” he said.
Stressing on the need to build consensus, the Foreign Minister said any security related initiative or paradigm should be formulated taking into consideration territorial integrity and sovereignty of all the countries that will be involved
The Foreign Minister also elaborated on the threat of drug trafficking. He said there is a consensus on the establishment of Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe, Tajikistan and along with Universal Centre, it will be an effective weapon to combat drug trafficking.
“Drug Trafficking is another issue that we need to combat together, and is very closely related to two other issues in the region — terrorism and stability in Afghanistan. There is a consensus on the establishment of Anti-Drug Centre in Dushanbe. This is a welcome move and is much needed. The Anti-Drug Centre, together with the proposed Universal Centre, will be an effective weapon in combating drug trafficking,” Jaishankar said. (ANI)
EAM Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with the Thai Minister on Friday and hosted a lunch in his honour…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Thailand counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa reiterated their commitment to closer cooperation in sub-regional, regional, and multilateral forums.
Thailand Foreign Affairs Minister Sangiampongsa concluded his visit to New Delhi on Saturday.
The Thailand minister visited the national capital from July 11 to 13 for the 2nd Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Foreign Ministers’ Retreat hosted by EAM Jaishankar and for his first official visit to India.
EAM Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with the Thai Minister on Friday and hosted a lunch in his honour.
During the meeting, the two ministers reviewed progress across various areas of partnership, covering political exchanges, defence and security ties, trade and investment opportunities, connectivity, science & technology collaboration, health cooperation, culture, and people-to-people interaction.
“The two ministers also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to closer cooperation in sub-regional, regional, and multilateral fora,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
In accordance with the vision of the two prime ministers, the foreign affairs ministers reaffirmed the mutual desire for a stronger India-Thailand partnership.
Thailand is a key partner of India in ASEAN. The ‘Act East’ Policy of India, which marks its 10th year in 2024, finds convergence with the ‘Act West’ Policy of Thailand.
The interactions between the External Affairs Minister and the Thai Minister of Foreign Affairs have contributed to the further strengthening of bilateral ties.
The BIMSTEC Retreat presented an opportunity for the Foreign Ministers of BIMSTEC nations to discuss avenues to broaden and deepen cooperation in various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade and investment, people-to-people contacts, etc in the Bay of Bengal region and littoral, according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Thailand’s Bangkok on July 17, 2023.
BIMSTEC is a regional organisation that connects countries around the Bay of Bengal to promote economic growth, trade, and cooperation in areas like transportation, energy, and counter-terrorism. (ANI)
EAM thanks outgoing foreign secretary Kwatra
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar thanked outgoing Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra for his dedication and contributions in the field of foreign policy and national security, as his tenure ended on Saturday.
EAM Jaishankar thanked Vinay Kwatra for helping strategize and execute many key policies in the last decade.
Jaishankar wished the outgoing Foreign Secretary the best for his future endeavours.
“Thank outgoing Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra for his dedication and many contributions in the field of foreign policy and national security. Particularly in the last decade, he has helped strategize and execute so many of our key policies. Wish him well in his future endeavours,” EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X.
Vikram Misri, who is currently serving as the Deputy National Security Adviser, has been appointed as India’s new Foreign Secretary.
The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) approved the proposal made by the Ministry of External Affairs for appointing Vikram Misri as the next Foreign Secretary, succeeding Vinay Mohan Kwatra as Foreign Secretary.
Misri’s tenure as Foreign Secretary will begin on July 15 as the extension granted to Kwatra ended on July 14.
Kwatra had been given a six-month extension in March this year.
Misri, 59, has the unique honour of having served as private secretary to three Prime Ministers – Inder Kumar Gujral in 1997, Manmohan Singh in 2012, and Narendra Modi in 2014.
Born in Srinagar, Misri was India’s ambassador to China and played a significant part in discussions between India and China following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes that resulted from the actions of the Chinese military in Eastern Ladakh. (ANI)
The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Thailand’s Bangkok on 17 July 2023. BIMSTEC comprises seven Member States – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will host his counterparts for the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi on July 11-12.
The Retreat will present an opportunity for the Foreign Ministers of BIMSTEC nations to discuss avenues to broaden and deepen cooperation in various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade and investment, people-to-people contacts etc in the Bay of Bengal region and littoral, according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In a press release, MEA said, “The Retreat will present an opportunity for the Foreign Ministers of the BIMSTEC countries to discuss, in an informal setting, avenues to broaden and deepen cooperation across various sectors including in the fields of security, connectivity, trade and investment, people to people contacts etc, in the Bay of Bengal region and littoral.”
The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Thailand’s Bangkok on 17 July 2023. BIMSTEC comprises seven Member States – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
The MEA noted, “The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), brings together seven countries of South and South East Asia for multifaceted cooperation.”
Bhutan’s Foreign Minister DN Dhungyel and Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister U Than Swe on Wednesday arrived in New Delhi to attend the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Dhungyel’s visit will further strengthen the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Bhutan.
In a post on X, Jaiswal stated, “Warm welcome to @FMBhutan D.N. Dhungyel as he arrives in New Delhi for the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat. The visit will further strengthen close bonds of friendship and cooperation between India & Bhutan and advance regional cooperation.”
Sharing details regarding Myanmar Deputy PM’s visit, Jaiswal in a post on X stated, “Deputy PM & FM U Than Swe of Myanmar arrives to a warm welcome in New Delhi for the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat. Productive discussions on strengthening regional cooperation for a prosperous, connected and secure Bay of Bengal region lie ahead.”
For India, the BIMSTEC regional forum acts as a convergence of its “Neighbourhood First” policy, or “Act East” outlook and the interests of the Indian Ocean.
Earlier in June, EAM Jaishankar extended wishes on BIMSTEC Day and reiterated India’s commitment to achieve shared prosperity through a resilient and open BIMSTEC region.
Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, “Warm wishes on BIMSTEC Day! India reiterates its commitment to achieve shared prosperity through a resilient and open BIMSTEC region. May our time-honoured links grow even stronger.”
The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was held in Bangkok, Thailand, on July 17, 2023. That inaugural meeting laid the groundwork for this year’s discussions, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation among the BIMSTEC member states. The Bangkok retreat was noted for setting a precedent in fostering a cooperative environment that goes beyond formal diplomatic engagements.
Bhutan’s Foreign Minister DN Dhungyel and Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister U Than Swe have already arrived in New Delhi to participate in the retreat.
MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the significance of these visits in strengthening bilateral and regional ties. He posted on social media platform X, “Warm welcome to @FMBhutan D.N. Dhungyel as he arrives in New Delhi for the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat. The visit will further strengthen close bonds of friendship and cooperation between India & Bhutan and advance regional cooperation.”
Jaiswal also welcomed Myanmar’s Deputy PM with a post stating, “Deputy PM & FM U Than Swe of Myanmar arrives to a warm welcome in New Delhi for the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat. Productive discussions on strengthening regional cooperation for a prosperous, connected and secure Bay of Bengal region lie ahead.”
For India, the BIMSTEC forum aligns seamlessly with its “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” policies, providing a strategic platform to engage with its immediate and extended neighbors. India’s proactive role in BIMSTEC underscores its commitment to fostering regional cooperation, connectivity, and economic integration.
In June 2024, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar extended his wishes on BIMSTEC Day, reaffirming India’s dedication to a resilient and open BIMSTEC region. He stated, “Warm wishes on BIMSTEC Day! India reiterates its commitment to achieve shared prosperity through a resilient and open BIMSTEC region. May our time-honoured links grow even stronger.”
The retreat is expected to address key challenges and opportunities in the region. Security discussions will likely focus on combating terrorism, maritime security, and transnational crime. Connectivity will cover infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and transport links to enhance trade and people-to-people ties. Economic cooperation will include discussions on enhancing trade, investment, and economic integration among member states.
The informal setting of the retreat is anticipated to facilitate open and frank discussions, enabling the ministers to address sensitive issues more effectively. This approach aims to build trust and foster a cooperative spirit among the BIMSTEC nations.
Looking forward, Jaishankar expressed optimism for further enhancing India-Qatar relations and continuing a constructive dialogue on areas of mutual interest…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, in Doha and the two held talks on strengthening bilateral ties across various sectors and addressing key regional challenges.
During his day-long official visit, Jaishankar conveyed warm greetings and wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to The Amir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Prime Minister Al Thani.
He underscored the robust nature of the India-Qatar relationship, emphasizing cooperation in political, trade, investment, energy, technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
“We reviewed our bilateral relationship focusing on political, trade, investment, energy, technology, culture and people to people ties,” said Jaishankar in a post on X.
The discussions also delved into regional and global issues of mutual concern. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for the insights shared by Prime Minister Al Thani on the Gaza situation, reflecting the depth of dialogue between the two nations on pressing international matters.
“Exchanged views on regional and global issues. Appreciate his sharing insights on the Gaza situation,” Jaishankar’s post also said.
Looking forward, Jaishankar expressed optimism for further enhancing India-Qatar relations and continuing a constructive dialogue on areas of mutual interest.
“Look forward to the further enhancement of India-Qatar relations and continued dialogue on issues of mutual interest,” he added.
“India and Qatar share historic and friendly relations marked by regular exchange of high-level visits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Qatar on 14-15 February 2024 and held discussions with Qatar’s Amir H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani,” the MEA said in a release earlier.
Jaishankar’s visit to the Gulf nation will enable both sides to review various aspects of bilateral relations including political, trade, investment, energy, security, cultural, and people-to-people as well as the regional and international issues of mutual interest. (ANI)
Jaishankar’s visit underscores the central place that Sri Lanka occupies in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy and SAGAR Vision…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his one-day official visit to Sri Lanka. He said that India will always be a “reliable friend and a dependable partner” for Sri Lanka. He also shared a video of glimpses of his visit to Sri Lanka.
In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, “Concluded a productive visit to Sri Lanka, my first in this new term. We will always be a reliable friend and a dependable partner for our Sri Lankan friends.”
His visit underscores the central place that Sri Lanka occupies in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy and SAGAR Vision, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release.
In a press release, the MEA stated, “The visit of the External Affairs Minister underscores the central place Sri Lanka occupies in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy and SAGAR Vision. Following Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and stabilization, forging deeper long-term economic cooperation was underlined as a priority for sustainable and equitable growth of Sri Lanka, and mutual prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.”
It was S Jaishankar’s first bilateral visit as External Affairs Minister after his re-appointment. His visit to Colombo comes after Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent visit to India to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 9.
During his visit, Jaishankar called on Sri Lanka’s President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Wickremesinghe received him at the President’s Office in a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks that included Sri Lanka’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry and Sri Lanka’s Minister of Power and Energy, Kanchana Wijesekera.
Jaishankar also held meetings with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry. Jaishankar and Wickremesinghe jointly handed over 48 houses under the Model Village Housing Project in the Colombo and Trincomalee districts; and 106 houses under Phase III of the Indian Housing Project in the Kandy, Matale and Nuwara Eliya districts. In the press release, MEA noted, “In the recent past, EAM visited Sri Lanka four times in January 2021, March 2022, January 2023 and October 2023.”
MEA stated, “In a testament to the comprehensive and people-centric nature of India-Sri Lanka development cooperation, President Wickremesinghe and EAM jointly handed over 48 houses under Model Village Housing Project in Colombo and Trincomalee districts; 106 houses under Phase III of the Indian Housing Project in Kandy, Matale and Nuwara Eliya Districts. Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), a nerve centre for Search and Rescue operations at sea established with an Indian grant of USD 6 million was also jointly commissioned in the virtual ceremony.”
Regarding the discussions held between the Sri Lankan government’s leadership and Jaishankar, MEA stated, “Interaction of EAM with the leadership of the Government of Sri Lanka provided an opportunity to review and accelerate progress in the multifaceted India-Sri Lanka partnership. One of the key focus areas of discussion was the Vision Document adopted by President Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the former’s visit to India in July 2023.”
“Discussions added momentum to the ongoing projects as well as initiatives for promoting connectivity in all its dimensions, particularly in domains of energy, physical infrastructure as well as economic and people-to-people ties,” it added.
During his visit, Jaishankar also held separate meetings with Sri Lanka’s former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, and leaders of the various political parties from the North, East and the upcountry region.
Sharing details regarding his meeting with Sajith Premadasa, he stated, “Nice to meet leader of opposition @sajithpremadasa and his delegation during my Sri Lanka visit. Thank GL Peiris, @EranWick, Niroshan Perera, Palini Thigambaram @Rauff_Hakeem and V Radhakrishnan for joining. Appreciate the bipartisan support for stronger India-Sri Lanka relationship. An insightful discussion on making our partnership even more robust.”
Jaishankar and Mahinda Rajapaksa discussed the current progress of bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, “Glad to call on former President @PresRajapaksa
of Sri Lanka. Discussed the current progress of India-Sri Lanka bilateral cooperation. Appreciate his continued support.”
In a press release, MEA stated, “Across party lines, a stronger India-Sri Lanka partnership was seen as beneficial for continued growth and prosperity of the peoples of both countries.”
Jaishankar also interacted with the leadership of Indian-origin Tamils. After the meeting, EAM in a post on X wrote, “Interacted with leadership of Indian Origin Tamils. Thank @S_Thondaman, @JeevanThondaman, A. Aravindh Kumar, M Rameshwaran, V. Radhakrishnan, Velu Kumar, Udayakumar and Vadivel Suresh for joining. Discussed our development partnership and further cooperation in respect of IOTs.”
During his visit, Jaishankar also met an 8-member delegation of Tamil leaders from northern and eastern provinces.
Regarding his discussion with Tamil leaders, Jaishankar stated, “Good meeting with 8 member delegation of Tamil Leaders from Northern and Eastern Provinces. Thank @ShanakiyanR, @Mavai_S, @MASumanthiran, @ImShritharan, @SAdaikalanathan, Dharmalingam Sithadthan, @CWigneswaran and @skajendren for joining. Discussed issues pertaining to development & devolution in their provinces.” (ANI)
US delegation led by Congressman Michael McCaul includes former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Representatives…reports Asian Lite News
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with a bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by Congressman Michael McCaul on Wednesday. He appreciated their “strong and continued” support for the strategic partnership between India and the US.
The US Congressional delegation includes former US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, US Representatives – Gregory Meeks, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Nicole Malliotakis, Ami Bera and Jim McGovern.
In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, “Pleasure to meet with the bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by @RepMcCaul. Thank @SpeakerPelosi, @RepGregoryMeeks, @RepMMM, @NMalliotakis, @RepBera and @RepMcGovern for joining. Appreciate their strong and continued support for the strategic partnership.”
The US Congressional delegation, which arrived in India on Tuesday, was received by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration at Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Airport. Upon arrival, the US lawmakers headed to Dharamshala to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama.
On Wednesday, the high-level US Congressional delegation, led by US Congressman Michael McCaul, met Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamshala.
Before meeting the Dalai Lama, the US delegates attended a public felicitation programme at the main Tibetan temple. The disciples of the Dalai Lama were also seen in the temple complex this morning. Children performed and displayed Tibetan culture at the felicitation ceremony in the courtyard of the Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala.
During their meeting at his residence in Dharamshala today, McCaul presented Dalai Lama with a framed copy of The Resolve Tibet Act, a bipartisan bill passed by the US Congress to enhance US support for Tibet.
Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet.
The legislation rejects Beijing’s stance that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times and urges China to “cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama,” Radio Free Asia reported.
The Dalai Lama presented Buddha Statue to Pelosi at the end of the meeting with the US Congressional delegation, the office of the Dalai Lama said.
The members of the US Congressional delegation also posed for a group photo with the Tibetan spiritual leader after their meeting. (ANI)
