Paris, May 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has said that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir had been banned from entering France effective immediately.

In a post on social platform X, Barrot said on Saturday that the decision followed Ben-Gvir's "unqualifiable" actions toward French and European citizens aboard the Gaza-bound Global Sumud flotilla.

"We cannot tolerate French nationals being threatened, intimidated or subjected to violence in such a manner, especially by a public official," Barrot said, Xinhua news agency reported.

He also called on the European Union to impose sanctions on Ben-Gvir.

Hundreds of members from a Gaza-bound aid flotilla were brought to Israel's Ashdod Port on Wednesday, as Ben-Gvir released the video showing some of them shackled and forced to the ground.

In the video, released by Ben-Gvir on his social media channels, dozens of activists are shown kneeling on the floor, bent forward with their heads down and hands bound behind their backs with zip ties, as the Israeli national anthem is played loudly over speakers.

Organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla said Israeli naval vessels intercepted all ships in the convoy in international waters, about 250 nautical miles off the coast of Gaza.

According to the organisers, 428 activists were "kidnapped" by Israel after the interception began on Monday morning.

Barrot on Wednesday condemned the treatment of activists from the Global Sumud flotilla, calling the actions of the Israeli side "unacceptable" and announcing that Israel's Ambassador to France, Joshua L. Zarka, would be summoned.

Earlier this week, Israeli forces seized two humanitarian aid flotillas carrying South Korean activists arriving for the Gaza Strip.

The Lina Al Nabulsi, carrying South Korean activist Kim Ah-hyun and Korean American activist Jonathan Victor Lee, the Kyriakos X aid flotilla, which was carrying South Korean activist Kim Dong-hyeon, were seized.

Kim Ah-hyun and Kim Dong-hyeo were later released by Israel, according to the South Korean Presidential office.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) BRICS member countries condemned the April 2025 Pahalgam attack and other terrorist attacks against them and reaffirmed commitment to further enhancing counter terrorism cooperation among them, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday.

The 11th Annual BRICS Counter Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) Plenary and Sub Groups' Meetings were held in New Delhi on May 21-22 under the Chairmanship of India.

The meetings marked 10 years of the establishment of the BRICS CTWG.

Ambassador Sibi George, MEA Secretary (West) , "emphasised the importance of collective and united efforts of the BRICS member countries to tackle the global menace of terrorism and urged the BRICS member countries to work together to make BRICS CTWG a more resilient, constructive, innovative, inclusive and result-oriented Working Group in the keynote address on the inaugural day."

He also thanked BRICS member countries for showing solidarity and extending support to India following the heinous terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, 2025.

Ambassador George emphasised the need for a robust collaborative approach to tackle the challenges to counter terrorism, like evolving terror funding mechanisms, radicalisation and the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorism.

He reiterated India's policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

Sibi George also expressed India's concern over cross-border terrorism and called for concerted and united efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The Indian diplomat reaffirmed India's commitment to further deepen cooperation with BRICS member countries for a secure and terror-free world.

According to the statement, during the meetings, member countries discussed the full spectrum of counter-terrorism cooperation to address existing and emerging challenges.

Vinod Bahade, MEA Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism), chaired the meetings in which senior counter terrorism officials from 10 BRICS member countries also participated.

The BRICS CTWG Plenary meeting was preceded by the meetings of the five thematic Sub Groups, the MEA said.

Source: IANS

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Jaipur, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Jaipur on May 25 as part of his India tour, with elaborate preparations underway for his arrival and security arrangements across the city.

This will be Rubio’s first visit to Jaipur.

According to the proposed schedule, Rubio will arrive in Jaipur at around 2 p.m. on May 25 and depart at 6.30 a.m. on May 26.

During his visit, he is expected to tour Amer Fort.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari is scheduled to welcome Rubio at Amer Fort, where he is expected to arrive at around 3 p.m.

Preparations for a ceremonial reception have already begun at Jaleb Chowk inside the historic fort complex.

Folk artists and cultural troupes are being mobilised to showcase Rajasthan’s traditional heritage and cultural performances as part of the welcome ceremony.

In view of the high-profile visit, the Jaipur district administration, police and security agencies have been placed on high alert.

Officials have started inspections of travel routes, event venues and accommodation facilities linked to the visit.

Security agencies are maintaining close surveillance at hotels, tourist sites and locations earmarked for VVIP movement.

A detailed traffic and crowd management plan is also being prepared to ensure smooth movement and avoid disruptions during Rubio’s stay.

Civic agencies have intensified cleanliness drives, lighting arrangements and beautification work at major tourist sites, particularly Amer Palace, ahead of the visit.

Rubio is currently on a four-day India visit from May 23 to 26, covering Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi.

The visit is focused on strengthening cooperation between India and the United States in areas such as trade, defence, energy and strategic affairs.

He is also expected to participate in high-level meetings and diplomatic engagements during his India tour, including discussions related to regional and strategic cooperation.

Officials said administrative departments had been instructed to ensure seamless arrangements and prevent any disruption during the US Secretary of State’s Jaipur visit.

It may be recalled that last year, from April 21 to 24, US Vice President J.D. Vance visited Jaipur with his family.

During the visit, he toured several tourist attractions, including Amer Fort, and also addressed an event in the city.

Source: IANS

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Tokyo, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) India's expanding maritime outreach, including its 'Necklace of Diamonds' counter-strategy, logistics agreements with Australia, France and Japan, coastal surveillance networks, naval base arrangements in Seychelles and BrahMos missile sales to the Philippines beginning in 2024 signals the most “proximate and credible structural pushback” to Chinese maritime assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

No other Quad members possess India's geographic and strategic positioning to perform this role, a report has mentioned.

"China's 'String of Pearls' strategy is, at its operational core, a strategy directed at India. The network of Chinese-funded ports at Gwadar in Pakistan, Hambantota in Sri Lanka, Kyaukpyu in Myanmar, and Chittagong in Bangladesh encircles India's maritime perimeter. Since 2008, Beijing has sent more than 45 naval missions to the Indian Ocean Region, and China now operates at least 13 ports across it,” a report in Japan Forward detailed.

According to the report, the Western discourse on the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) often overlooks a key point – India entered the framework not merely as a junior partner absorbing an external doctrine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) in March 2015 from Port Louis in Mauritius, two years before the United States formally adopted the FOIP framework.

“The doctrine prioritises trust, respect for international maritime norms, peaceful dispute resolution, and cooperative security in the Indian Ocean. It was, in essence, India's own rules-based order doctrine, rooted in its immediate strategic neighbourhood," the report highlighted.

“Over the decade that followed, the Indian Navy advanced SAGAR through anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden, humanitarian missions, COVID-19 relief dispatched to Mauritius, Maldives, Madagascar, Comoros, and Seychelles, and a network of coastal surveillance radars installed across IOR littoral states from Sri Lanka to Bangladesh,” it added.

The report noted that in March 2025, India broadened the initiative into MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), a framework explicitly framed as an inclusive alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

It added that practical implementation followed quickly, with the AIKEYME (Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement) naval exercise with Tanzania in April 2025 bringing together ten African nations, while India's IOS SAGAR mission carried out joint EEZ patrols with personnel from African and South Asian navies.

India's refusal to enter a formal security alliance with the US, the report said, is precisely what prevents FOIP from being perceived across the Global South as a Western containment project.

“Analysts argue that FOIP is also often interpreted as a framework for countering China and that emphasising inclusivity is essential to its credibility as a region-wide organising principle. India's participation, on its own terms, signals to fence-sitting nations across ASEAN, Africa and South Asia that FOIP is not a binary Cold War choice,” it stated.

Source: IANS

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Brussels, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) China is not merely a competitor but a “predatory power” in the international system that has “mastered the art of winning” without direct confrontation. While Western countries have spent decades focused on “globalisation” and “liberal reform”, Beijing has benefited from the gradual shift of the West’s industrial base to its own economy, a report mentioned.

For Chinese President Xi Jinping, the weakening of the West is not a strategic goal but something that he watches unfold, said Konstantinos Bogdanos, a Greek politician and journalist, writing for the digital news website 'Brussels Signal'.

Highlighting the recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, Bogdanos said, “On one side, we have the American president, a man who views geopolitics as a series of tactical deals and immediate shows of force – a true disciple of Thucydides (or, rather, of what the great historian attributes to the Athenians), believing that the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must. On the other side, we have the quiet emperor, who thinks in centuries, playing a game that is far more patient and lethal."

“While the cameras capture handshakes, witty exchanges and grand banquets, we must look at the strategic ghost haunting the room. There is an ancient Eastern proverb, often misattributed to Sun Tzu but rooted deeply in the Chinese strategic mind, which suggests that if you sit by the river long enough, you will eventually see the bodies of your enemies float by. This is the essence of modern China. They are not in a rush to go to war; they are waiting for the West to drown in its own decadence, its own debt, and its own ideological civil wars,” he added.

According to the expert, Trump’s visit to Beijing reflects an attempt to steer a “turbulent" relationship through personal diplomacy and economic pressure driven by the belief that China only respects strength.

“But even if a deal on trade or a temporary truce on Taiwan materialises, they will not be reversing the flow. China’s global expansionism – its bid to control European trade routes and African mines – is not a series of arbitrary business moves. It is the steady construction of a world where the West becomes a historical relic,” Bogdanos further stated.

He noted that from the Covid-19 pandemic to China’s social credit systems, Beijing has offered a clear view of its vision for the future – “a world without the individual, a world where the state is the only god.”

“While the EU issues strategic autonomy memos that nobody reads, China is busy ensuring that every solar panel and every electric car battery in Europe is provided by their Communist Party. They are waiting for us to become so dependent that ‘sovereignty’ becomes a word with no meaning,” Bogdanos said, raising concerns.

Source: IANS

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Oslo/New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) The recent third India–Nordic Summit in Norway underscored India's standing as a great power in 2026 and how the nation is actively shaping coalitions, setting international agendas.

Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, describing India as "one of the greatest powers", carried significant weight because it came from a European head of government — “a signal to Western policy circles that the old taxonomy no longer applies”, a report mentioned.

“The Norwegian capital, Oslo, hosted the third edition of the India–Nordic Summit, a gathering that, on the surface, brought together the leaders of India and five small Nordic states around a shared agenda of climate and technology. Beneath the surface, however, something more consequential was taking shape,” a report in One World Outlook detailed.

'Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen looked across the table at India’s delegation and said aloud what many in Western policy circles had long been reluctant to declare: India is "not a middle power, but one of the world’s greatest powers."' That statement, delivered in Oslo, may well serve as a marker for when Europe’s official perception of India permanently shifted,” it added.

More than another "diplomatic rendezvous", the report said, the summit marked an important moment in India’s expanding global outreach.

“It was the moment a relationship that had been, at best, a ‘nice-to-have’ arrangement crystallised into a strategic alignment, one explicitly framed around green technology, digital governance, Arctic affairs, and the architecture of a new global order," One World Outlook report mentioned.

The report highlighted the elevation of India–Nordic ties to a 'Green Technology and Innovation Strategic Partnership' as the summit’s most concrete development.

“This is not mere semantic upgrading. By explicitly linking cooperation to the clean energy transition, trade and investment flows, and the blue economy — covering oceans, shipping, and fisheries — the five Nordic states and India committed to a structured, purpose-driven relationship rather than the generalist political dialogue that had characterised earlier summits,” it added.

Emphasising the significance of the partnership, the report said that Nordic innovation can translate into global impact only through access to markets and manufacturing capabilities on the scale of India.

While India’s green and digital ambitions require the technological depth that Nordic economies have built over decades, the strategic partnership institutionalises this complementary relationship.

Spotlighting India's position as a major global player, the report said, “India arrived in Oslo not to be lectured or assisted but to co-author. That is the difference the 3rd India–Nordic Summit inscribed into the record of global affairs — and it is a difference that will compound in the years ahead.”

Source: IANS

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Washington/New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Saturday, emphasised that the United States will not let Iran hold the global energy market hostage and affirmed that US energy products have the potential to diversify India’s energy supply, the US State Department has detailed.

"The Secretary and Prime Minister discussed the current situation in the Middle East. The Secretary emphasised that the United States will not let Iran hold the global energy market hostage and affirmed that US energy products have the potential to diversify India’s energy supply. The two officials reflected upon recent bilateral achievements, including significant investments that advance the President and Prime Minister's 'Mission 500' to double trade by 2030," read a statement issued by Tommy Pigott, spokesperson of the US State Department.

According to the spokesperson, Secretary Rubio underscored the strategic importance of the US-India partnership which remains rooted in shared democratic values, profound economic and commercial opportunity, and the strong personal ties between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi.

"In New Delhi, I met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to underscore the importance of the US-India relationship. We discussed the situation in the Middle East and US-India partnership in energy, securing critical supply chains, and collaboration on emerging technologies. I was pleased to invite Prime Minister Modi to the White House on behalf of the President," Rubio posted on X after the meeting.

The visiting Secretary also extended an invitation, on behalf of President Trump, to Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House.

"The Secretary and Prime Minister agreed to deepen trade and defence cooperation and accelerate collaboration on critical and emerging technologies," Pigott mentioned.

Rubio also shared his appreciation for India hosting the upcoming Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and looked forward to advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region alongside Australia, India, and Japan.

The US Secretary of State called on Prime Minister Modi soon after his arrival in New Delhi. After the meeting, PM Modi said that both countries will continue to work closely for the global good.

"Happy to receive the US Secretary of State, Mr. Marco Rubio. We discussed sustained progress in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and issues related to regional and global peace and security. India and the United States will continue to work closely for the global good," PM Modi wrote on X.

The PMO stated the visiting US Secretary of State briefed PM Modi on the sustained progress in bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defence, strategic technologies, trade and investment, energy security, connectivity, education and people-to-people ties.

"Secretary Rubio shared US perspective on various regional and global issues, including the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister reaffirmed India's consistent support for peace efforts and reiterated the call for peaceful resolution of the conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy," read a statement issued by the PMO following the meeting.

"Prime Minister requested Secretary Rubio to convey his warm greetings to President Trump and said that he looked forward to their continued exchanges," it added.

Taking to X, US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor stated that, during the meeting, both sides had a "productive discussion" on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across various sectors.

He also mentioned that India remains a "vital partner" to the United States.

"Great to join Secretary Rubio for a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We had a productive discussion on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across security, trade, and critical technologies - areas that strengthen both our nations and advance a free and open Indo-Pacific. India is a vital partner to the United States!" Gor posted on X.

"News! Secretary Marco Rubio extended an invite on behalf of President Donald Trump, for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House in the near future!", he added in another post.

Earlier in the day, Rubio arrived in Kolkata, kicking off his four-day visit to India. He was welcomed by Ambassador Gor at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Accompanied by his wife, Jeanette Rubio, the US Secretary of State visited Mother House, the global headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata.

Rubio's India itinerary, scheduled from May 23 to 26 and also covering Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi, is being viewed as diplomatically significant because of planned energy discussions with India and meetings involving ministers from the Quad nations.

India is set to host the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi on May 26. At the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will also be arriving in India to attend the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting along with Rubio.

Ahead of his visit to India, Rubio said that Washington wants to expand energy ties with New Delhi and deepen coordination through the Quad, while describing India as a "great ally" and "great partner" amid global supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Saturday that Rubio's visit will add further strength to India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) Asserting that India-US partnership continues to deepen, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday said that relationship with New Delhi remains at the cornerstone of Washington's approach to the Indo-Pacific and both countries will have some "exciting and new announcements" to make about the development and the strengthening of the relationship in the coming months.

Addressing the gathering before inaugurating the US Embassy's Support Annex building in New Delhi, Rubio spotlighted the "important role" India plays in the US approach to the Indo-Pacific.

"It is a sign of our commitment to this important relationship between the United States and India. This relationship between our two countries is at the cornerstone of our approach to the Indo-Pacific," said Rubio.

Rubio recalled that the first major discussions he held after being sworn in as the US Secretary of State in January 2025 were during the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Washington DC, a grouping that also includes India.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Rubio had also met shortly after the Quad meeting, which was the first foreign policy engagement, not only for Rubio but also for the Trump administration in its second term.

"A lot of people aren't aware of this, but I was sworn in as Secretary of State on Tuesday, or Wednesday, it was a Tuesday after the inauguration. Within the hour, I was at the State Department, spoke briefly, as is tradition, in the lobby of that building to our staff. And then went immediately upstairs to the eighth floor. And my first meeting, my very first meeting officially as Secretary of State, was a meeting of the Quad. And we were going to renew that. We did it again last year in a second, in a different setting, and we chose to do it here," Rubio said on Saturday.

"We wanted to do it here, not just because of our commitment to that structure of work, but also as a tangible sign of what an important role India plays in the United States and in our posture and in our approach to the Indo-Pacific," he asserted.

He highlighted that "personal relationship" between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump continues to solidify the India-US ties.

"Anchoring that is the relationship between the President and the Prime Minister. It's a personal relationship that dates back to the first administration, when the President had a chance to visit here. And it has carried over into this second administration, and you can just see the connection between them. And I think that's incredibly important. It is. The connection between leaders is incredibly important. These are two very serious leaders that are focused not just on the short term, but on the long term," he said.

The US Secretary of State asserted that the partnership between Washington and New Delhi has deepened "in ways that don't often make headlines or aren't splashy", but are important and real and tangible and enduring.

"We've expanded commercial ties now with more than $20 billion in investments, $20 billion in investments from Indian companies in the United States. We've deepened a security partnership through military exercises in the Indo-Pacific. And of course, as part of that, we recognise that an orderly and a secure consular system is vital to solidifying this important relationship. That's why we're introducing a new America First visa scheduling tool that prioritises business professionals that strengthen these ties," Rubio stated.

He ended his remarks by reiterating that the partnership between US and India remains an "incredibly important" one.

"It's the reason why I'm here on this visit to reaffirm those ties, to build upon them. And we think in the months ahead, we're going to have even more exciting and new announcements to make about the development and the strengthening of the relationship between the two countries," remarked Rubio.

Source: IANS

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Seoul, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Saturday vowed to continue the legacy of late former President Roh Moo-hyun by building a nation founded on fairness, inclusion and respect for human dignity.

"After you left, so many 'Roh Moo-hyuns' were born, and I am one of them," Lee said in his eulogy delivered at a ceremony marking the 17th anniversary of Roh's death held in the southeastern rural village of Bongha, where the late President lived after his retirement.

On North Korea, Lee said he will uphold the spirit of the October 4 Inter-Korean Declaration signed by Roh and the late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, the father of current North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The declaration aimed at improving inter-Korean relations and reducing military tensions.

"We will firmly walk on the path toward peaceful coexistence and mutual growth," he said, Yonhap news agency reported.

"As President, I feel the immense responsibility and weight that comes with the position. I will carry on your legacy," Lee said.

Lee pledged to realise Roh's vision of a society where success is possible without privilege, hard work is fairly rewarded, people embrace one another regardless of background, and balanced development allows both the capital region and the rest of the country to prosper together.

"I will press ahead with reform to root out rule-breaking and privilege, undeterred by resistance from the established order," he said, adding, "This government will bring to fruition the dreams you left unfulfilled."

Roh, a liberal politician who ran the country from 2003 to 2008 as the ninth president of South Korea, leapt to his death from a cliff behind his retirement home in 2009 amid a corruption investigation involving his family and aides.

Lee attended the same memorial event last year as the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party.

–IANS

ksk/as

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the "sustained progress" in bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stated on Saturday.

Rubio called on Prime Minister Modi soon after his arrival in New Delhi and also extended an invite on behalf of US President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the White House in the near future.

After the meeting, PM Modi said that both countries will continue to work closely for the global good.

"Happy to receive the US Secretary of State, Mr. Marco Rubio. We discussed sustained progress in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and issues related to regional and global peace and security. India and the United States will continue to work closely for the global good," PM Modi wrote on X.

The PMO stated the visiting US Secretary of State briefed PM Modi on the sustained progress in bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defence, strategic technologies, trade and investment, energy security, connectivity, education and people-to-people ties.

"Secretary Rubio shared US perspective on various regional and global issues, including the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister reaffirmed India's consistent support for peace efforts and reiterated the call for peaceful resolution of the conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy," read a statement issued by the PMO following the meeting.

"Prime Minister requested Secretary Rubio to convey his warm greetings to President Trump and said that he looked forward to their continued exchanges," it added.

Taking to X, US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor stated that, during the meeting, both sides had a "productive discussion" on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across various sectors.

He also mentioned that India remains a "vital partner" to the United States.

"Great to join Secretary Rubio for a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We had a productive discussion on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across security, trade, and critical technologies - areas that strengthen both our nations and advance a free and open Indo-Pacific. India is a vital partner to the United States!" Gor posted on X.

"News! Secretary Marco Rubio extended an invite on behalf of President Donald Trump, for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House in the near future!", he added in another post.

Earlier in the day, Rubio arrived in Kolkata, kicking off his four-day visit to India. He was welcomed by Ambassador Gor at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Accompanied by his wife, Jeanette Rubio, the US Secretary of State visited Mother House, the global headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata.

"Secretary Marco Rubio has landed in Kolkata. This is his first trip to India. Later today, we will call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Trade, Technology, Defence, QUAD, and many other items to discuss and advance over the next few days!", Gor stated on X after Rubio's arrival in Kolkata.

Rubio is the first US Secretary of State to visit Kolkata since Hillary Clinton travelled to the city in May 2012. His visit comes only weeks after West Bengal witnessed a major political change with a BJP-led government assuming power in the state

Rubio's India itinerary, scheduled from May 23 to 26 and also covering Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi, is being viewed as diplomatically significant because of planned energy discussions with India and meetings involving ministers from the Quad nations.

India is set to host the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi on May 26. At the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will also be arriving in India to attend the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting along with Rubio.

Ahead of his visit to India, Rubio said that Washington wants to expand energy ties with New Delhi and deepen coordination through the Quad, while describing India as a "great ally" and "great partner" amid global supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Saturday that Rubio's visit will add further strength to India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) Visiting US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, on Saturday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon after his arrival in New Delhi and extended an invite on behalf of US President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the White House in the near future.

After the meeting, PM Modi said that both countries will continue to work closely for the global good.

"Happy to receive the US Secretary of State, Mr. Marco Rubio. We discussed sustained progress in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and issues related to regional and global peace and security. India and the United States will continue to work closely for the global good," PM Modi wrote on X.

Taking to X, US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor stated that, during the meeting, both sides had a "productive discussion" on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across various sectors.

He also mentioned that India remains a "vital partner" to the United States.

"Great to join Secretary Rubio for a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We had a productive discussion on ways to deepen US-India cooperation across security, trade, and critical technologies - areas that strengthen both our nations and advance a free and open Indo-Pacific. India is a vital partner to the United States!" Gor posted on X.

"News! Secretary Marco Rubio extended an invite on behalf of President Donald Trump, for Prime Minister Modi to visit the White House in the near future!", he added in another post.

Earlier in the day, Rubio arrived in Kolkata, kicking off his four-day visit to India. He was welcomed by Ambassador Gor at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Accompanied by his wife, Jeanette Rubio, the US Secretary of State visited Mother House, the headquarters of Saint Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata.

"Secretary Marco Rubio has landed in Kolkata. This is his first trip to India. Later today, we will call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Trade, Technology, Defence, QUAD, and many other items to discuss and advance over the next few days!", Gor stated on X after Rubio's arrival in Kolkata.

Rubio was the first US Secretary of State to visit Kolkata since Hillary Clinton travelled to the city in May 2012. His visit comes only weeks after West Bengal witnessed a major political change with a BJP-led government assuming power in the state

Rubio's India itinerary, scheduled from May 23 to 26 and also covering Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi, is being viewed as diplomatically significant because of planned energy discussions with India and meetings involving ministers from the Quad nations.

India is set to host the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi on May 26. At the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will also be arriving in India to attend the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting along with Rubio.

Ahead of his visit to India, Rubio said that Washington wants to expand energy ties with New Delhi and deepen coordination through the Quad, while describing India as a "great ally" and "great partner" amid global supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that Rubio's visit will add further strength to India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Source: IANS

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Moscow, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) The recent BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi held under India's 2026 chairship showed that the bloc has navigated the intense geopolitical turbulence, successfully insulating its core agenda from the escalating tensions of the Gulf War.

According to a report in the think tank Politeia Research Foundation (PRF), although the forum has weathered the crisis, the real challenges lie ahead, making "quiet and smart diplomacy" essential for the Delhi summit’s success.

Following the meeting held on May 14-15, the members agreed not to issue a joint statement, opting instead for a 'Chair's Statement and Outcome Document'.

According to India’s Sherpa for BRICS and Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Sudhakar Dalela, the document reflected the "common position" of members on almost all subjects.

"A close reading of the long document, which runs to 63 paragraphs, shows that despite persistent differences over the Gulf War, the central BRICS agenda has advanced, with progress in strengthening the forum and its essential goals. Hence, some observers who rushed to announce the demise or downfall of BRICS may have got it wrong," the report noted.

The BRICS meeting, it said, was widely anticipated to witness a direct confrontation, with delegates from Iran and the UAE accusing each other over the outbreak of armed hostilities and the continuing war involving Israel and the US.

As the BRICS chair, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar acknowledged without hesitation, "There were differing views among some members regarding the situation in West Asia/the Middle East".

The report highlighted that most participants called for an early resolution of the current conflict through dialogue and diplomacy while stressing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

At the same time, there was also broad agreement on ensuring safe maritime trade routes and protecting civilian infrastructure and lives — reflecting convergence alongside differences.

"Beyond the Middle East, BRICS foreign ministers had before them a rich menu of ideas and proposals to address, keeping in mind that their meeting was a bridge between the successful summit held in July 2025 in Rio de Janeiro and the forthcoming summit in Delhi, which is likely to take place in September this year,” the report stated.

Highlighting the successful outcome of the meeting, the report said that document mirrored almost all of India’s key priorities, including "stronger formulations on UN Security Council reform, disaster management, food security, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and terrorism."

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) The State Visit of Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides to India concluded on Saturday with both nations announcing a major upgrade in bilateral relations by elevating ties to a Strategic Partnership.

The visit is being seen as a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between New Delhi and Nicosia across diplomacy, trade, education and security sectors.

Sharing details of the conclusion of the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “A productive visit concludes. President Christodulides departed from New Delhi after a successful State Visit. He was seen off by Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Ajay Tamta. The visit gave a significant boost to India–Cyprus ties and marked a new chapter with the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership.”

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had described India’s partnership with Cyprus as “strong and futuristic” which remains rooted in shared democratic values.

After holding delegation-level talks with President Christodoulides at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, PM Modi stated that both countries had decided to elevate their relationship into a Strategic Partnership considering the growing closeness between the two nations.

“Ours is indeed a strong and futuristic partnership rooted in shared values. The growing investment linkages between our nations are a matter of immense joy, and we hope to increase trade and economic ties in the times to come,” PM Modi posted on X after the meeting.

According to the MEA, several key outcomes emerged from the bilateral discussions, including agreements on the establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG) on Counter-Terrorism, cooperation between the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and Cyprus’ Diplomatic Academy, as well as collaboration in higher education and research.

President Christodoulides also shared a warm moment with PM Modi during the visit as the two leaders posed for a selfie at Hyderabad House. Sharing the photograph on X, the Cyprus President wrote, “Prime Minister Modi, my good friend Narendra, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to you personally, and to the people of India, for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and my delegation.”

President Christodoulides also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat before attending official engagements in the national capital on Friday.

Source: IANS

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Kolkata, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, on Saturday visited Mother House, the headquarters of Saint Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata.

Rubio arrived in Kolkata on Saturday morning, as part of his four-day visit to India, and was welcomed by US Ambassador Sergio Gor at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

Marco Rubio was accompanied by his wife Jeanette D. Rubio. They left from The Mother Teresa House of the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata after spending some time there. He visited the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity and spoke with its officials. US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor was also present during the visit.

The Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa in Kolkata, is a Catholic congregation dedicated to serving the poor, sick and destitutes across the world.

In a post on X, Gor, the US Ambassador to India, said, "Secretary Marco Rubio has landed in Kolkata. This is his first trip to India. Later today, we will call on Prime Minister @narendramodi in New Delhi. Trade, Technology, Defence, QUAD, and many other items to discuss and advance over the next few days!"

Rubio became the first US secretary of state to visit Kolkata since Hillary Clinton travelled to the city in May 2012. The visit came only weeks after West Bengal witnessed a major political change with a BJP-led government assuming power in the state

The US Department of State said Rubio would also visit the Children's Home in the city during his Kolkata stopover.

Rubio's India itinerary, scheduled from May 23 to 26 and also covering Agra, Jaipur and New Delhi, is being viewed as diplomatically significant because of planned energy discussions with India and meetings involving ministers from the Quad nations.

India is set to host the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi on May 26. At the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Marco Rubio, Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will visit India to attend the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

Ahead of his visit to India, Rubio said that Washington wants to expand energy ties with New Delhi and deepen coordination through the Quad, while describing India as a “great ally” and “great partner” amid global supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz.

Source: IANS

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London, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) A joint statement was released by nine Western countries -- The UK, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Norway and the Netherlands on the serious situation in Israel's West Bank.

"Over the past few months, the situation in the West Bank has deteriorated significantly. Settler violence is at unprecedented levels. The policies and practices of the Israeli government, including a further entrenchment of Israeli control, are undermining stability and prospects for a two-State solution," the statement said on Friday.

It added that the International law is clear on Israeli settlements in the West Bank terming them as "illegal" and the construction projects in the E1 area would not be an exemption.

According to the statement, The E1 settlement development would divide the West Bank in two and marks a serious breach of international law.

It said, "businesses should not bid for construction tenders for E1 or other settlement developments. They should be aware of legal and reputational consequences of participating in settlement construction, including the risk of involving themselves in serious breaches of international law."

The countries jointly in the statement called on the "Israeli government to end its expansion of settlements and administrative powers, ensure accountability for settler violence and investigate allegations against Israeli forces".

They also called on the "Israeli government to respect the Hashemite custodianship over Jerusalem's Holy Sites and the historic status quo arrangements, and lift financial restrictions on the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian economy".

The countries strongly opposed those "who argue for annexation and forcible displacement of the Palestinian population, including members of the Israeli governmen".

"We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on a negotiated two-State solution in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions where two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace and security within secure and recognised borders," the statement noted.

–IANS

ksk/khz

Source: IANS

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Geneva, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, has said that he is allocating up to $60 million from the world body's Central Emergency Response Fund to accelerate the response to the Ebola outbreak in Congo and the wider region.

"We need to get ahead of this Ebola outbreak," Fletcher said on Friday in a statement.

While the humanitarian community is fully mobilised, he said, "the epidemiological context is challenging: there are not yet licensed vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo strain", as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Noting that these are some of the most difficult operating environments in the world for the life-saving work, with conflict and high population movement, Fletcher said the United Nations is working to secure safe and sustained access for frontline responders, including to areas controlled by armed groups.

"It is essential that there is no obstruction to our response. We must have access to all routes -- air, land and water -- across the affected areas," he added.

The UN Relief Chief underscored that containment depends on fast, coordinated action at the community level, stressing the importance of strong communication with governments, and effective early warning and detection systems.

Fletcher said he is in close contact with UN humanitarian coordinators and the teams in Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, and more staff from key UN agencies and partners are being deployed this weekend to reinforce the effort.

"Meanwhile, Norway will contribute 50 million Norwegian kroner ($5.39 million) to the World Health Organisation (WHO)'s Contingency Fund for Emergencies following a new Ebola outbreak in Congo, with confirmed imported cases in Uganda," the Norwegian government said on Friday.

"When dangerous diseases break out, every hour counts. We must be able to respond immediately, before the situation escalates," Norwegian Minister of International Development Aasmund Aukrust said in a press statement.

"The fund can release resources within 24 hours, and WHO has already disbursed $3.9 million to support the response to the Ebola outbreak," according to the statement.

"Several of Norway's partners are supporting efforts in contact tracing, laboratory capacity, treatment and community information. Norway's long-term partnerships with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, and the Pandemic Fund will also play a role in the continued response," according to the statement.

The WHO on Friday revised its risk assessment to "very high" at the national level, while remaining "high" at the regional level and "low" globally.

–IANS

int/ksk/khz

Source: IANS

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Washington, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) President Donald Trump has said that Iran was eager to reach a deal with the United States but warned that Washington would continue to pressure Tehran because "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon".

Trump made the remarks on Friday at the White House during the swearing-in ceremony of new Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, where he mixed economic messaging with comments on national security and America's military posture.

"We have the greatest military in the world," the US President said while discussing his administration's economic and defence policies.

Referring to Iran, Trump added, "Iran is dying to make a deal. We'll see what happens, but we hit them hard, and we had no choice because Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon."

The US President did not provide details about possible talks with Tehran or explain what actions he was referring to when he said the US had "hit them hard". But the comments reflected his continued focus on Iran's nuclear ambitions and the broader US strategy of military and economic pressure.

Trump linked American military strength with what he described as a broader national revival driven by manufacturing investment, tariffs and economic growth.

"We're going to be submitting a military budget for $1.5 trillion," he said.

He also added that the United States was witnessing unprecedented investment and industrial expansion.

"We're building factories, car plants, everything, AI, everything all over the country," Trump said.

"Nobody's ever seen anything like it."

Trump added that economic growth and military power were closely connected.

He said tariffs had helped bring manufacturing back to the United States and claimed the country had secured "$18 trillion being invested in the United States" during the first 11 months of his administration.

The US President also referenced a conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping while discussing US military capabilities.

"I was with President Xi, and I said to him, 'We have the greatest military in the world'," Trump said.

The remarks came as the Trump administration continues to frame Iran's nuclear programme as one of the top threats facing US' national security.

Trump has repeatedly said Tehran must never acquire a nuclear weapon and has linked that position to broader US efforts to strengthen military readiness and expand defence spending.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (SocialNews.XYZ) President Droupadi Murmu has received the Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital and hosted a banquet in his honour.

President Murmu said on Friday that the elevation of India–Cyprus relations to the level of a Strategic Partnership reflects the trust that has existed between our two countries for decades, and opens new opportunities for expanding mutual cooperation.

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Christodoulides held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

PM Modi announced that ties between India and Cyprus have been elevated to a strategic partnership.

He said that Cyprus President Christodoulides' visit to India marks the "next milestone" in the shared journey of the two nations.

"Today's meeting stands as a confirmation that Cyprus and India are not simply strengthening bilateral ties. We are building a partnership with strategic depth and global relevance. For our countries, our peoples, and for our respective regions," Christodoulides said on social media platform X after the meeting.

"A partnership built on trust and on the conviction that dialogue and cooperation, not confrontation, is the path forward," he added.

While addressing a joint press meet with President Christodoulides following their talks at Hyderabad House on Friday, PM Modi said, "Cyprus is one of India's top 10 investors. In the last decade, investments from Cyprus in India have nearly doubled. Trust between the two countries has grown. The India-EU FTA has opened up new opportunities. Leveraging this, we aim to double this investment once again over the next five years, and to realise this commitment, today we are elevating our trusted partnership to the level of a strategic partnership."

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the meeting outcomes include elevation of ties to a strategic partnership, besides signing of several agreements -- including on a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, diplomatic training between Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) and the Diplomatic Academy of Cyprus's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and also in the field of higher education and research.

–IANS

ksk/khz

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Government has initiated special measures to ease container movement at Mumbai’s Jawahar Lal Nehru Port Authority which include rail evacuation, waiver of handling charges, green channels and trailer pooling to ease bottlenecks caused by disruptions due to the Middle East conflict.

A high-level meeting chaired by Minister of Ports and Shipping Sarbananda Sonowal and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday focused on better container movement as the Gulf-bound containers have also been rerouted to JNPA, placing additional pressure on port and logistics infrastructure.

Responding swiftly to the situation, JNPA implemented a series of operational interventions to relieve terminals and expedite cargo evacuation. Containers were evacuated through rail movement even to nearby Container Freight Stations (CFSs) equipped with railway sidings, while simultaneous scanning of double containers was introduced to reduce processing time, according to an official statement.

“Held a highly productive meeting with my senior colleague Union Minister Piyush Goyal to address the challenges emerging from the global situation and to ensure seamless trade facilitation for the trading community. Guided by a ‘Whole of Government’ approach, we are taking coordinated and proactive measures across ports and logistics systems to sustain Ease of Doing Business (EODB), Sonowal said.

To provide relief to trade stakeholders, Intern-Terminal Railway Handling Operation (ITRHO) charges and Change of Mode of Transport charges were waived. Port terminals also extended waivers and discounts on ground rent charges on a case-to-case basis.

Dedicated green channels for empty trailers were established across terminals to facilitate faster turnaround. In another major initiative, leading CFS operators pooled nearly 100 trailers to lift entire container stacks, enabling the evacuation of long-pending and buried containers from congested yards. These coordinated efforts have significantly improved yard management, reducing the number of relatively old containers lying at terminals.

“In line with the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government is committed to building a resilient, efficient and future-ready trade and logistics ecosystem. We are resolved to take swift, coordinated measures to protect the interests of the EXIM community, the minister added.

As part of a long-term resilience strategy, JNPA has also outlined a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen logistics preparedness and future cargo handling capabilities.

The measures include intensified efforts by CFS operators and transporters to increase driver availability, enhanced cargo evacuation through railways, and engagement with motor driving training schools to build a larger pool of trained trailer drivers. The port authority is also planning a gradual transition to electric vehicles to improve operational sustainability and driver comfort. In addition, a Truck Appointment System is being introduced to improve movement at terminal gates, while terminals are being encouraged to deploy additional handling equipment to support rising cargo volumes.

Source: IANS

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Imphal, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi presenting the GI-tagged black rice 'Chak Hao' to the Queen Mother of the UAE was a matter of immense pride for the people of the state.

In different social media posts, the Chief Minister said the gesture of the Prime Minister showcased Manipur’s unique identity on the global stage and honoured the hard work of the state’s farmer’s community.

In a Facebook post, Singh wrote : “It is a matter of immense pride for every Manipuri that Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji chose to present Manipur’s renowned GI-Tagged Chak Hao (Black Rice) to the Queen Mother of the UAE.”

“This thoughtful gesture not only showcases the unique identity of Manipur on the global stage but also honours the hard work of our farmers, the richness of our land, and the enduring traditions that have nurtured this extraordinary crop for generations,” the Chief Minister said.

According to Singh, Chak Hao is more than a delicacy, it is a symbol of Manipur’s heritage, resilience, and agricultural excellence.

“Its recognition at the highest international level reflects the growing appreciation for our indigenous products and the immense potential of our state. Let us continue to support our farmers, promote local products, and take pride in sharing the best of Manipur with the world,” the Chief Minister stated.

Prime Minister Modi recently concluded a landmark five-nation tour covering the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy.

Meanwhile, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla recently while addressing at and event in Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Imphal pointed out that products such as Chak Hao (black rice), Kachai Lemon, and Tamenglong Orange reflect the state's cultural and ecological wealth.

With scientific support, value addition, and improved market access, these products can drive rural prosperity and achieve global recognition, the Governor added. He had emphasised the need to integrate traditional agricultural practices with modern technology, promote climate-resilient farming, strengthen infrastructure and market linkages, and foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem among youth.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his recent five-day foreign tour, highlighted Odisha's rich handicraft heritage by presenting a traditional silver filigree boat, crafted in Cuttack's historic Tarakasi art, to Norway's King Harald V.

The silver sailboat model crafted using Tarakasi, the ancient art of silver filigree from Cuttack in Odisha, is often referred to as India's "Silver City".

With Prime Minister personally showcasing state-specific handicrafts and cultural legacy before world leaders, this has drawn him effusive admiration from many local artisans in Odisha.

They are also enthused and excited over the showcasing of their handicraft heritage on the world scale.

They said the special gesture by Prime Minister in promoting Odisha's Tarakasi silver filigree and Pattachitra art has helped local artisans gain recognition and respect.

Many artisans from Cuttack said that they feel proud and encouraged that their craftsmanship is reaching a global platform and bringing honour to Odisha's traditional art.

Girish Chandra Prusti, Utkal Swarna Rupa Sangha Secretary, praised the welcome initiative by PM Modi and hoped that this would give fillip to the industry, lately under pressure due to rising global prices.

"With Prime Minister promoting this good at international scale, this will give fresh impetus to the business, boost workers' morale and also give new momentum to the sector as a whole," he said.

Bijay Kumar De, a silver tarakasi artisan praised the Prime Minister for promoting Odisha's cultural heritage and artefacts on the global stage.

"We feel proud and happy that the Prime Minister has not only acknowledged our work but also tried to promote it in foreign countries," he said.

The exquisite silver sailboat is a masterpiece of Tarakasi, the ancient art of silver filigree from Odisha's Cuttack, often referred to as India's "Silver City".

This delicate craft, which has flourished for more than 500 years, involves meticulously twisting and soldering hair-thin silver wires into intricate, lace-like patterns, showcasing extraordinary precision and craftsmanship.

Handcrafted by skilled artisans, the sailboat reflects Odisha's rich maritime legacy and commemorates the voyages of ancient Indian traders who sailed to distant shores across the Indian Ocean.

Source: IANS

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Nicosia/New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Cyprus, which expressed solidarity and unwavering support to India in its fight against cross-border terrorism during President Nikos Christodoulides' meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday, continues to align closely with New Delhi, particularly on the security framework, because of Pakistan’s behavior.

Nicosia, experts reckon, has a lot of issues with Pakistan, considering its close relations with Turkey.

Last year, during PM Modi's historic two-day visit to Cyprus, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in over two decades, Christodoulides took the visiting leader on a guided tour along the ceasefire line in the historic city of Nicosia.

"Tour with the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi along the ceasefire line, in old Nicosia. Where the signs of the Turkish occupation remain visible," the Government of the Republic of Cyprus posted on X along with the photographs of the two leaders visiting the area.

PM Modi's visit to Cyprus was significant as it came in the middle of India's tensions with Turkey over the latter's continuous support to Pakistan. Ankara's recognition of the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the northern region that was seized by Turkish forces in 1974 and differences over gas exploration rights in the Eastern Mediterranean remain a constant source of tensions between Turkey and Cyprus.

The Joint Declaration adopted later demonstrated in practice the new page in bilateral relations between India and Cyprus, also more generally at the European and international level.

"Cyprus is a predictable and secure ally of India in a region of particular geostrategic importance, such as the Eastern Mediterranean, the wider Middle East. At the same time, it is a Member State of the European Union (EU) that constitutes India's gateway to Europe, and in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU that will begin on 1 January 2026, we will work to further strengthen India's strategic relations with the EU," said Christodoulides then.

'I also want to publicly thank you for your long-standing stance on the Cyprus issue and our efforts to end the Turkish occupation and reunite our homeland. At the same time, I want to publicly express the support of the Republic of Cyprus in your efforts to confront both international and cross-border terrorism," he had added.

On Friday, when they met again, both Leaders categorically and unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism.

"The Leaders called for strengthening multilateral efforts to combat terrorism and the expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework. They urged for strong and concerted action against all UN- and EU-designated terrorists and terrorist entities, including those under 1267 UNSC Sanctions Committee, their associated proxy groups, facilitators, sponsors, financiers and backers," read the Joint Statement issued after their meeting at the Hyderabad House.

Nicosia admits that Pakistan has not been supportive of its territorial integrity in the way that it should have been under the UN Charter.

On the other hand, Cyprus believes that its close relationship with India is grounded in shared principles regarding the international system, multilateralism, etc.

The very fact that Pakistan is on the opposite side in relation to these issues does not help the situation.

Cyprus continues to work with India on a "very specific positive agenda" irrespective of what Turkey is doing.

This includes the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) which both leaders recognised has "transformational potential" in reshaping and promoting global trade, connectivity and prosperity.

"They reiterated their shared commitment to promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East and emphasised the importance of fostering deeper engagement and corridors of interconnection from India through the wider Middle East to Europe. They discussed the establishment of a Bilateral Connectivity Dialogue," the Joint Statement mentioned.

"The Leaders reaffirmed their shared vision of Cyprus and India as strategic partners and vital connectors between Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Indo-Pacific, committed to advancing peace, stability, connectivity, and prosperity," it added.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at their meeting held here on Friday, agreed to elevate the relations between the two countries to a strategic level with deeper cooperation in defence and transport connectivity, according to senior government officials.

Noting that Prime Minister Modi visited Cyprus last year, the officials said that the "traditionally excellent relations" have now been elevated to a strategic level. "Over the past year, we have seen several important developments in our bilateral relations," an official said.

"Cyprus is interested in strengthening cooperation with the Indian defence industry and also wants the defence industries of the two countries to work together. President Nikos Christodoulides is reported to have highlighted that the European Union is investing more than 150 billion euros through the SAFE instrument to enhance defence and security across the EU and its member states. Cyprus is eligible for 1.2 billion euros, and is interested in enhancing its military capabilities and exploring the possibility of procuring from India," an official said.

The two sides agreed that the Defence Minister will visit soon to discuss defence cooperation and specific products of interest, the official said.

In order to enhance transport connectivity, the relevant Transport Minister will hold meetings with Air India and IndiGo regarding the possibility of starting direct flights. There is interest from both companies, and the direct connectivity is expected to be established by the end of the year.

Indian companies have already invested in Cyprus and have full access to the European market in a number of sectors, including defence, manufacturing, and technology. Cyprus serves as an important gateway to Europe.

In Mumbai, there is already strong business cooperation between the companies of the two countries across various sectors, and there is potential for further expansion. Cyprus has decided to open a trade office in Mumbai from September 1 this year. It will be sending additional high-level diplomats to its mission in New Delhi.

The shooting of the first Bollywood film in Cyprus has been announced. Filming of the romantic story will begin this June, and the film is expected to be released on 14 February next year.

In Mumbai, Eurobank has also opened its first representative office. It is important that this bank is working on integrating systems, including UPI, which will be operational in Cyprus next year. This will enable users in Cyprus to use the system, and in the future, it will also support non-Indian users, including those investing between the two countries.

The Cyprus presidency began with the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement in January. The country is now working with the European Commission and India to prepare the legal documents so that the agreement can be signed as soon as possible.

Several other agreements are also under negotiation with the European Union, including an Investment Protection Agreement and cooperation on climate and security projects. A Security of Information Agreement is already in place, along with a Security and Defence Partnership. Sectoral engagements planned for 2026 include a maritime security dialogue, a cyber dialogue, a counter-terrorism dialogue, and a Green Hydrogen Task Force.

Source: IANS

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Saharanpur, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Padma Shri awardee farmer Seth Pal Singh hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for receiving the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation's (FAO) highest honour, the 'Agricola Medal' for 2026, calling it a matter of pride for the entire country and the farming community.

Speaking to IANS, Seth Pal Singh said the recognition by the Food and Agriculture Organisation reflects the growing global stature of India's agriculture sector under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.

The FAO conferred the honour on PM Modi in recognition of his contribution towards farmers' welfare, strengthening food security, increasing agricultural productivity, and poverty eradication. FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu praised India's welfare measures, including free ration distribution to 80 crore people, direct income support to more than 11 crore farmers under the PM-Kisan scheme, promotion of millets and digital public infrastructure.

Reacting to the honour, Seth Pal Singh said, "This award is not just recognition for the Prime Minister, but for the entire nation. Under his leadership, India's agriculture sector has reached a new level. His vision of empowering farmers through FPOs, startups, skill development, and diversification in farming has earned global respect for the country."

The Padma Shri awardee said India has witnessed historic changes in agriculture and food security since 2014.

"When Prime Minister Modi assumed office, several revolutionary steps were taken for farmers. Initiatives like PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi directly benefited crores of farmers. Whenever farmers receive messages about PM-Kisan instalments being credited, there is a sense of happiness among them," he said.

He also highlighted the Prime Minister's push for millets and traditional grains at the global level.

"Earlier, millets were neglected despite being nutritious and requiring fewer resources. Farmers did not receive proper prices for coarse grains. Prime Minister Modi took millets to the international stage, which improved soil fertility, reduced cultivation costs, and increased the market value of these grains," he added.

On global pressures related to agriculture, Seth Pal Singh said PM Modi has consistently protected the interests of Indian farmers.

"The Prime Minister has repeatedly said that he will never compromise on farmers' rights, no matter the pressure. Even in challenges related to fertilisers, subsidies were provided so that farmers do not face additional burdens," he said.

He further stated that PM Modi's growing international popularity has strengthened India's agricultural diplomacy and enhanced the country's image globally.

"Whenever he visits foreign countries, leaders break protocol to welcome him. The work done in India is being recognised worldwide. His dream is to make India a developed nation by 2047, and we are confident India will achieve that goal under his leadership," Seth Pal Singh told IANS.

Source: IANS

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Washington, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Nato allies must urgently expand defence production and protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte said after talks in Sweden.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the Nato Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Helsingborg on Thursday ahead of the alliance summit scheduled in Ankara later this year.

The discussions focused on defence spending, military production, Iran and maritime security.

Rubio and Rutte discussed "strategic imperatives for the Alliance, including increased Allied defence spending, the upcoming Nato Summit in Ankara, and expanded Transatlantic defence production," State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a readout of the meeting.

The readout also added that the two leaders discussed "US opposition to protectionist measures that risk Nato interoperability and readiness, weaken the Transatlantic defence industrial base, and jeopardise the ability to deliver equipment to our warfighters."

Rutte said Nato countries were now sharply increasing defence budgets.

"The good news is the money is now coming in," the Nato Chief added.

"Defence spending is rapidly ramping up."

But he warned that Nato's defence industrial base was struggling to meet demand.

"This is a problem in Europe, this is a problem in the US," Rutte said.

"This will be a big issue at the Ankara Summit."

Rubio said the alliance needed to accelerate weapons and munitions production to prepare for future threats.

"It is clear to the world, to all of us in the Alliance and beyond, that we simply are not able to produce munitions today at a rate that are necessary for future needs," he added.

He described the upcoming summit as "probably one of the more important leaders' summit in the history of Nato".

Rubio also referred to divisions within the alliance over recent US military actions in the Middle East.

"The President's views -- frankly, disappointment -- at some of our Nato Allies and their response to our operations in the Middle East, they are well documented," he said.

Iran and maritime security emerged as another key issue during the talks.

Rutte said Nato Ministers were deeply concerned about threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

"I hear from many of my colleagues here that it's not acceptable that freedom of navigation is basically trampled upon as it is at the moment," he added.

He also praised US actions against Iran's military capabilities.

"The US degrading the nuclear capability of Iran but also the long-range missile capability of Iran, is crucial for the Middle East, for Europe, for the whole world," Rutte said.

Rubio accused Iran of attempting to impose a "tolling system" in the Strait of Hormuz.

"There is not a country in the world that should accept that," he said, adding: "That's just not acceptable. It can't happen."

He said the US was supporting a Bahrain-backed resolution at the United Nations Security Council aimed at protecting freedom of navigation in international waters.

Rubio also repeated Washington's long-standing position that "Iran can never have a nuclear weapon".

Source: IANS

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Algiers, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) An Algerian law criminalising French colonisation has officially entered into force following its publication in the country's Official Gazette, according to local media.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the "strong and futuristic partnership" between India and Cyprus, which he said remains rooted in shared values.

"Happy to have met President Nikos Christodoulides in Delhi. We held extensive deliberations on further strengthening the India-Cyprus friendship. Considering the close ties between our nations, we have decided to elevate our friendship into a Strategic Partnership," PM Modi wrote on X after meeting Christodoulides at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

"Ours is indeed a strong and futuristic partnership rooted in shared values. The growing investment linkages between our nations are a matter of immense joy, and we hope to increase trade and economic ties in the times to come," he added.

Both leaders held extensive discussions on India-Cyprus bilateral ties.

"The visit of President Nikos Christodoulides to India will greatly benefit the people of India and Cyprus. At the same time, it will contribute to a prosperous and sustainable planet as well!" PM Modi stated in another post Friday evening.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the meeting outcomes include elevation of ties to a strategic partnership, besides signing of several agreements -- including on a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, diplomatic training between Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) and the Diplomatic Academy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cyprus and also in the field of higher education and research.

Before the meeting, President Christodoulides shared a light moment with PM Modi as both posed for a selfie at the Hyderabad House.

"Prime Minister Modi, my good friend Narendra, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to you personally, and to the people of India, for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and my delegation," Christodoulides wrote on X, sharing the selfie.

"I feel exceptionally honoured and privileged to be in Delhi for this State Visit, almost a year since your historic visit to Cyprus," he added.

Earlier in the day, President Christodoulides paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar also called on President Christodoulides and expressed appreciation for his positive sentiments and guidance for the bilateral ties and cooperation between India and the European Union.

Following the meeting, EAM Jaishankar posted on X, "Delighted to call on President Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus in New Delhi today. Value his positive sentiments and guidance for strengthening our bilateral ties and India - EU cooperation."

The Cyprus President arrived in the national capital on Thursday from Mumbai and was received at the airport by Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides discussed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) during their meeting in New Delhi on Friday, recognising that the initiative has transformational potential in reshaping and promoting global trade, connectivity and prosperity.

Addressing a special briefing on Cyprus President's ongoing State Visit to India in New Delhi on Friday, Secretary (West) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, termed connectivity as an "important aspect" of India's engagement with European Union (EU) and Cyprus. He announced that the two nations have set up a bilateral connectivity dialogue.

When asked about PM Modi and President Christodoulides discussing IMEC, George responded, "It was discussed. IMEC is a very important project for us. Both leaders recognised that it has transformational potential in reshaping and promoting global trade, connectivity and prosperity. They reiterated their shared commitment to promoting stability in the eastern Mediterranean and the wider Middle East and emphasised the importance of fostering deeper engagement and corridors of interconnection from India through the wider Middle East to Europe."

"They discussed the establishment of a bilateral connectivity dialogue. So, connectivity is a very important aspect of our engagement with the European Union, engagement with the Cyprus, engagement with the countries in the region. So, IMEC was discussed in this context and it's important note that we have set up a bilateral connectivity dialogue in that regard. So, discussions will continue," he added.

It was on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit held in New Delhi in 2023 that the leaders of India, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UAE and US signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) committing to work together to develop IMEC.

The IMEC will comprise two separate corridors, the east corridor connecting India to the Gulf and the northern corridor connecting the Gulf to Europe. The corridor intends to enhance connectivity, increase efficiency, reduce costs, secure regional supply chains, increase trade accessibility and generate jobs, resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and Middle East.

During the special briefing, George termed President Christodoulides' visit to India an "important milestone" in bilateral relations. Stressing that India and Cyprus share "close and time-tested relationship", he said that the two nations will mark will mark 65 years of establishment of diplomatic relationship in 2027, which will be commemorated with various activities in both the countries.

"This visit is an important milestone in India-Cyprus relations as the two leaders have decided to elevate the bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership. Following the talks, both sides exchanged various government-to-government MoUs and agreements signed during the visit," he said.

Source: IANS

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Stockholm, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that Iran imposing tolls for transit in the Strait of Hormuz is "simply unacceptable" and "cannot happen". If this were to occur in the Strait of Hormuz, he said during a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Sweden's Helsingborg, then it would also happen in five other places around the world.

"Why shouldn't countries around the world say 'we want to do that too?' Not to mention how vital and crucial that Strait is for every country represented here today, but frankly, also for countries not represented here, particularly those in the Indo-Pacific," Rubio continued, adding that the Iranians "are trying, among other things, to convince Oman to join them in this toll system."

According to the US Secretary of State, "there is no country in the world that should accept such a claim, and I don't know of any country in the world that declares itself in favour of it - with the exception of Iran, of course - but, in any case, there is no country in the world that should accept it".

Rubio, reported Adnkronos news agency, then highlighted that a resolution promoted by Bahrain is currently under discussion at the United Nations.

"The resolution boasts the highest number of co-sponsors ever recorded for a text submitted to the Security Council. Unfortunately, a couple of Security Council member states are considering vetoing it. That would be a regrettable outcome. However, we are doing everything possible to build the global consensus needed to prevent that from happening," he continued.

"We will see if the United Nations still works. It is there that we will try to achieve a concrete result. I believe that almost all countries represented here today have joined as co-sponsors of this resolution. And if they haven't yet, I am sure they will do so soon," he added.

Regarding the ongoing negotiations with Iran, "we are awaiting updates on the current talks, but slight progress has been made. I don't want to exaggerate, but there has been some movement, and that is positive," the US Secretary of State further stated, emphasising: "The fundamental principles remain the same: Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon. It simply cannot. This regime can never have nuclear weapons. And to ensure that, we will have to address the issue of enrichment."

As for the United States' decision to review its military presence in Europe, it is not a "punitive measure", he stated. "It is clear that the United States continues to have global commitments to honour in terms of force deployment: this requires us to constantly review the deployment of our troops. This is not a punitive measure," Rubio affirmed, adding that it is "a process that will continue and that, I am convinced, will allow us to reach decisions in a very positive and productive way, thanks to collaboration with our allies. Ultimately, however - as in any alliance - the relationship must be beneficial for all involved parties."

"We are here to lay the groundwork for what, in my opinion, will probably be one of the most important leaders' summits in NATO history." Rubio then concluded: "The President's views," meaning "his disappointment with some of our NATO allies and their response to our operations in the Middle East, are well documented. The issue will have to be addressed. It will not be resolved or addressed today; it is a topic for discussion at the leaders' level."

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Gandhinagar, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) India-Russia cooperation in maritime, shipbuilding and education sectors was discussed during a high-level courtesy meeting held in Gandhinagar between Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Russian Federation's Consul General in Mumbai, Ivan Fetisov, with both sides exchanging invitations to major investment summits in Gujarat and St. Petersburg.

The discussions focused on avenues to strengthen bilateral engagement, particularly in maritime infrastructure, shipbuilding and education, with both sides expressing interest in expanding institutional and industrial cooperation in these areas.

During the meeting, the Russian Consul General expressed readiness for deeper collaboration with Gujarat in these sectors, indicating interest in expanding institutional and industry-level engagement.

He also referred to Russia's participation as a partner country in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2024, as well as its role as a partner organisation in the recent Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference.

The Chief Minister highlighted Gujarat's established position as a key maritime state, noting its extensive coastline and the development of a port-led growth model under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He said that around 40 per cent of India's cargo handling takes place through ports in Gujarat, underlining "the state's significance in national trade logistics".

He also outlined Gujarat's progress in ship recycling and shipbuilding, describing the sector as "an area of growing industrial strength".

He also pointed to the development of specialised educational institutions, including the Gujarat Maritime University, along with other sector-specific universities, which he said are contributing to Gujarat's emergence as a "modern education hub" aligned with industry requirements.

The Russian Consul General extended an invitation to the Chief Minister to attend an upcoming business summit scheduled in Russia's St. Petersburg.

He also reiterated Russia's interest in continuing engagement with Gujarat through investment and institutional cooperation platforms.

In response, Chief Minister Patel invited a Russian delegation to participate in the next edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, emphasising opportunities for further collaboration between Russian industries and Gujarat's economic ecosystem.

Both sides agreed on continuing dialogue to explore practical avenues for cooperation in identified sectors.

Source: IANS

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Seoul, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Korea on Friday finalised a plan to acquire US Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) shipborne missile interceptors by 2034, in a bid to boost its missile defence capabilities, the state arms procurement agency said.

The Defence Project Promotion Committee, a decision-making body for arms procurement under the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), approved the 530 billion-won (USD 351.5 million) project to acquire the SM-6 long-range ship-to-air missile interceptors and related equipment, the agency said.

An SM-6 interceptor is an advanced defence missile interceptor for warships that can track and destroy a wide range of incoming threats, Yonhap news agency reported.

It has a maximum range of 460 kilometres, with an altitude of up to 36 km, and is built to directly track targets with its own radar, allowing ships to deal with multiple threats at the same time.

The military plans to equip the 8,200-ton Aegis destroyer ROKS Dasan Jeong Yakyong, which is scheduled to enter service later this year, as well as the ROKS Daeho Kim Jong Seo, another vessel of the same class, with the SM-6 interceptors.

The SM-6 interceptors will also be installed on the already-deployed ROKS Jeongjo the Great through future capability upgrades.

"The project is expected to enhance ship-to-air defence capabilities of Aegis destroyers against enemy anti-ship ballistic missiles, aircraft and cruise missiles, as well as improve their anti-ballistic missile defence," the DAPA said.

In November 2023, the United States approved a USD 650 million sale of up to 38 SM-6 missiles and related equipment to South Korea through the government-to-government Foreign Military Sales program.

Friday's announcement by DAPA suggests that the acquisition may have been scaled back from the earlier plan. The timeline for the acquisition has also been revised to 2023-34, from the original 2023-31 schedule.

The committee also approved a research and development (R&D) plan for a new military communications satellite system to replace older satellite and ground equipment.

The plan calls for developing and acquiring a dedicated geostationary military communications satellite and related ground infrastructure through an R&D program led by the Agency for Defence Development.

The project will run from this year through 2032, with an estimated cost of about 1.27 trillion won.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Stockholm, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Italy's support for Ukraine's full European Union membership is unwavering, but work must be done with Ukraine to "lay the groundwork" allowing the country to complete the bloc's rigorous accession process, especially in the area of combatting corruption, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Friday.

“We are in favour of Ukraine joining the EU as a full member, but we must lay the groundwork to achieve this goal," Tajani told reporters on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Helsingborg, Sweden.

"The ultimate goal is to see Ukraine enter the EU as a full member, alongside Western Balkan countries. This aspect is of crucial importance to us (Italy)," he continued.

"Certain rules must be respected,” said Tajani, adding that he had discussed Italy’s potential role in combating graft with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a recent visit to Ukraine, Adnkronos news agency reported.

Italy was prepared to deploy officers from its tax police, which have extensive experience in the fight against corruption and are already in contact with Ukraine's economy and finance ministry, Tajani noted.

"We are looking at how we can help combat corruption and thus help Ukraine comply with all the EU accession criteria. This is a concrete contribution," Tajani underlined.

Tajan's comments came after Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in a letter to EU leaders on Thursday, pitched the idea of "associate membership" of the EU for Ukraine, which would allow Ukrainian officials to take part in EU summits and ministerial meetings but not vote in them.

Such a move could help Zelensky sell Ukrainians a peace deal to end the more-than-four-year-old Russian invasion, Merz argued. Merz also suggested the EU make a “political commitment” to apply the bloc’s mutual assistance clause to Ukraine, arguing this would provide “a substantial security guarantee” should Ukraine not regain all of its territory or join NATO – outcomes that are both widely expected.

EU candidate countries must align with the bloc's norms in 35 policy areas, or 'chapters' - from justice standards and corruption to farm and fishing rules: a process that can take many years. All 27 EU members must agree before each chapter of negotiations can be opened and closed.

Ukraine applied for EU membership in February 2022 after Russia’s invasion and began entry negotiations in June 2024. European officials say Ukraine’s full membership of the bloc in the next few years is unrealistic. However, a 2027 entry date was pencilled into a 20-point peace proposal discussed by Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in late December.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Kochi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) In a significant boost to India's emerging deep-tech ecosystem, a Kochi-based underwater robotics firm found itself at the centre of high-level global business diplomacy as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official delegation to Norway.

This was the first standalone visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Nordic nation in more than 40 years.

Backed by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), the robitics firm participated in the India–Norway CEOs Roundtable and the High-Level Business and Research Summit held in Oslo, positioning Kerala's fast-growing startup ecosystem alongside some of the world's leading maritime and technology players.

Representing the company at the summit was the robotics firm's co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, who presented a strategic roadmap aimed at deepening India–Norway cooperation in ocean technologies, underwater robotics and the blue economy.

At the heart of the proposal was the idea of creating an 'India–Norway Marine Tech Innovation Corridor' designed to accelerate bilateral collaboration in deep-tech research, subsea engineering, green shipping and autonomous underwater systems.

The initiative also envisages joint research programmes, market access partnerships and collaborative innovation platforms between companies and institutions from both countries.

The Kochi startup also proposed cooperation in aquaculture technologies, port infrastructure modernisation, AI-powered marine monitoring systems and predictive maintenance technologies for underwater infrastructure.

"Norway's global leadership in subsea engineering, offshore technology, green shipping and aquaculture makes it a natural partner for the Kochi-based firm," the firm's Chief Technology Officer said, adding that the summit offered a rare opportunity to showcase India's growing maritime technology capabilities before a global audience.

Industry observers say the participation of a Kerala startup in such a high-level diplomatic and business engagement signals the changing profile of India's innovation economy, where specialised deep-tech firms are increasingly becoming part of strategic international collaborations.

KSUM Chief Executive Officer Anoop Ambika described the Kochi-based firm's presence at the summit as a milestone moment for Kerala's startup ecosystem and a reflection of the global recognition Indian deep-tech ventures are beginning to command.

Founded in Kochi, the robotics firm develops industrial-grade underwater drones used for inspection and monitoring of critical marine infrastructure.

The company recently secured a Rs 47 crore contract from the Indian Navy, strengthening its position in India's underwater robotics sector.

The startup has also developed an AI-powered platform named EVAP for advanced marine data analytics and predictive asset management, underlining Kerala's growing footprint in frontier technologies linked to the global blue economy.

Source: IANS

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Kabul/New Delhi, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Continuing with its humanitarian support for Afghanistan, India on Friday delivered 20 tonnes of Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) and Tetanus & Diphtheria (Td) vaccines to Kabul to boost immunisation efforts among Afghan children.

Taking to X, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir JaiswaL said, “India delivers 20 tonnes of critical dry materials for BCG and Tetanus & Diphtheria (Td) vaccines to Kabul, to augment Afghanistan’s Child Immunisation Programme. More consignments are underway. India is committed to support the friendly people of Afghanistan in the health sector.

Earlier in April, India delivered 13 tonnes of BCG vaccines and related dry material to support Afghanistan's child immunisation programme to fight Tuberculosis (TB).

In a post on X, Jaiswal stated, "India delivers 13 tonnes of BCG vaccines and related dry material to Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health to augment Afghanistan’s child immunisation programme against tuberculosis."

On April 5, India sent Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief material (HADR) to Afghanistan due to the problems faced by people after recent floods and earthquakes.

India expressed its solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and commitment to extending humanitarian assistance during this challenging time.

"At this time of hardship being faced by the Afghan people due to recent floods and earthquakes, India delivers HADR materials, including kitchen sets, hygiene kits, plastic sheets, tarpaulins, sleeping bags, and more. India stands in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and remains committed to extending humanitarian assistance and support during this challenging time," the MEA posted on X.

In March, India delivered a 2.5-tonne consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Afghanistan to support the medical treatment of those injured in Pakistan's attack on a hospital in Kabul on March 16.

India provided assistance to Afghanistan after a Pakistani strike targetted the 2,000-bed Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul’s Pul-e-Charkhi area, killing over 400 people and injuring more than 250 others.

"To support the medical treatment and swift recovery of those injured in the heinous attack on 16 March, India delivers a 2.5-tonne consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Kabul. India stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and will continue to extend all possible humanitarian support in this difficult hour," the MEA stated.

Source: IANS

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Tokyo, May 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Akie Abe, wife of late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, visited the Indian Embassy in Tokyo earlier this week, recalling her late husband's deep love for India and his friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In her interaction with India's Ambassador to Japan, Nagma M Mallick, Akie Abe also touched upon her charitable endeavours and work with young people.

"It was a rare privilege to welcome Ms Akie Abe to the Embassy earlier this week. Former Prime Minister Shinzo ABE, one of the greatest statesmen Japan has produced, was a true friend of India," the Indian Embassy in Tokyo posted on X on Friday.

"Ambassador Nagma M Mallick told the distinguished guest of how we in India continue to cherish his memory. Ms Abe recalled the great friendship between PM Abe and PM Modi. She also touched upon her charitable endeavours and work with young people," it added.

Last September, during an event held in Tokyo, Akie Abe had emphasised that her husband's ties with India went much beyond his role as Prime Minister.

"My husband’s ties with India went beyond his role as Prime Minister. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially, the two of them could feel each other’s warmth simply by exchanging a smile. There were many things my husband valued and cared for. It is my hope to carry them in my own helpful way," said Akie Abe.

Former Japanese PM Abe had made an immense contribution to elevating India-Japan relations to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. His association with PM Modi went back many years, having known the Indian leader since his long stint as Gujarat Chief Minister.

Following Shinzo Abe's death in 2022, PM Modi had in an emotional message expressed grief and shock at the "tragic demise of one of his dearest friends", and also attended the state funeral of the leader.

He called Abe a "towering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator" who dedicated his life to making Japan and the world a better place.

India had announced a one-day national mourning as a mark of respect for PM Abe, who was shot dead while making a campaign speech.

Having served as the Asian nation's longest-serving prime minister from 2006 to 2007, and then again from 2012 to 2020, Shinzo Abe worked hard to bolster India-Japan relations, which were accorded "top priority" under his tenure.

Source: IANS

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