New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Religious leaders from 30 countries have pledged to confront hatred, defend persecuted communities and ensure that artificial intelligence remains in the service of humanity.

The commitments were unveiled during a 'Universal Oneness' gathering at the Madison Square Garden in New York, attended by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat and representatives of several major faiths.

More than 200 religious representatives helped prepare the call to action after negotiations at a conference held earlier on Saturday.

"We will reject the use of religion to justify hatred, humiliation, dehumanisation or violence and teach that deep conviction can coexist with respect for those who believe differently," the declaration said.

It acknowledged both the power of faith to promote reconciliation and the history of religion being used to deepen divisions.

"We know the extraordinary power of faith to heal, reconcile, and inspire. And the painful truth that religion has sometimes been used to divide, exclude, and justify violence," it said.

The declaration came against the backdrop of armed conflicts, displacement and growing mistrust across societies. It warned that hatred now travels rapidly across borders through digital platforms.

"No government, institution, or technology can carry responsibility for the moment alone. Neither can religious leaders, but there is a responsibility that is uniquely ours," it said.

The leaders affirmed the dignity of every person and rejected the idea that unity requires people to abandon their individual beliefs or identities.

"Unity does not require conformity. Conviction does not require contempt," the declaration said.

Under five commitments, religious leaders pledged to examine the teachings and practices of their own communities, speak out when people are targeted and build relationships across religious and cultural boundaries.

"Peace begins with the courage to hold our own communities accountable," it said.

The leaders also promised to bring young people from different religious and cultural backgrounds together before disputes or tragedies arise.

"The person we know is harder to hate," the declaration said.

It called for joint service to people facing hunger, illness, displacement and persecution.

Cooperation, it said, must be evident through action and not merely public declarations.

"Our cooperation should be visible not only in what we say together, but in what we do together," it added.

The declaration also addressed decisions involving war, poverty, environmental protection and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

"We will insist that human progress remain in the service of human beings and that technology strengthen rather than diminish dignity, truth, freedom and human connection," it said.

Each participating leader was asked to undertake at least one concrete initiative. These could include bringing together communities that seldom interact, confronting hatred, creating opportunities for young people or serving alongside another religious group.

"We are not naive religious leaders alone cannot enforce limited hatred or reverse every injustice, but neither are we powerless," the declaration said.

During the gathering, participants tied rakhis on one another as symbols of connection, care and mutual responsibility.

Organisers said the tradition was being extended beyond families to friends, neighbours and communities.

Mohan Bhagwat has served as the Sarsanghchalak, or chief, of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009. The RSS, founded in 1925, is marking its centenary and has organisations and affiliates operating in several countries.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prominent religious leaders have warned that hatred is spreading rapidly across borders even as humanity struggles with armed conflicts, displacement, prejudice and the disruptive effects of emerging technologies.

Addressing the 'Universal Oneness' gathering at Madison Square Garden in New York, Jewish, Christian and Muslim speakers called for dialogue, compassion and a renewed recognition of humanity's shared identity.

The gathering was attended by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat and religious representatives from several countries.

Baba Jain, Founding Secretary-General of the World Council of Religious Leaders, presented a call to action prepared after consultations involving more than 200 representatives of major faiths from 30 countries.

"We know the extraordinary power of faith to heal, reconcile, and inspire. And the painful truth that religion has sometimes been used to divide, exclude, and justify violence," Jain said.

He added that religious leaders must first examine the words, teachings, institutions and practices within their own communities.

"We will reject the use of religion to justify hatred, humiliation, dehumanisation or violence and teach that deep conviction can coexist with respect for those who believe differently," he said.

Jain also called upon faith communities to build relationships before crises arise and to bring young people together across religious and cultural boundaries.

"The person we know is harder to hate," he said.

Imam Sharif said the gathering's success would be measured by what its participants did after leaving the venue.

"The question is what will be different tomorrow because we were here today," he added.

"If we leave here with deeper relationships, renewed courage, shared responsibility, and a determination to act, then perhaps we would have helped begin something much, much greater," he said.

Sharif said unity should not be confused with uniformity.

"We do not have to become the same in order to belong to one another," he said.

"Unity does not require conformity. Conviction does not require contempt."

He warned that technological advancement had not eliminated humanity's oldest impulses.

"Hatred travels across borders and through our screens faster than ever before. Technology is advancing with breathtaking speed, all while humanity is still struggling with ancient diseases of the heart, freed, prejudice, arrogance, tribalism, dehumanisation and the thirst for domination," Sharif said.

Reverend Thorne said people were repeatedly being told whom to fear, blame or exclude.

The gathering, she said, conveyed a different message.

"Every time human beings choose to gather instead of retreat, to listen, instead of shout, to understand, instead of condemn, something sacred happens," she added.

"Before our titles, before our religions, before our politics, before the borders on a map, we are human beings, children of God," Thorne added.

Rabbi Blumenthal said Jewish teaching held that every human being carried godliness and possessed infinite value.

"Every one of us is equal, valued and loved because when God looks at us, it is like God looking at a mirror," he added.

He said religion was not only about believing in God but also recognising that God had faith in humanity.

"I am convinced that much of what troubles us in our society today is that we are lonely," Blumenthal said, calling upon people to seek "connection, love, and respect for one another".

The programme used Raksha Bandhan and the tying of a rakhi as symbols of care, protection and mutual responsibility.

Participants were encouraged to extend that bond beyond families to neighbours, strangers and different religious communities.

Bhagwat has led the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009. Founded in 1925, the RSS is marking its centenary and has used the milestone to highlight its message of social organisation and service.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has pledged the organisation's full support to religious leaders working to promote interfaith cooperation, saying sustained grassroots action can change the global climate of conflict and mistrust.

"RSS with all its might is always with you because we are on the same page," Bhagwat told an international gathering of religious leaders in New York.

Addressing the "One World, One Humanity" programme, attended by more than 180 participants from 30 countries, Bhagwat said religious diversity should be respected and protected.

He added that different faiths were paths towards the same ultimate truth.

"Diversity is a decoration for our innate unity. It has to be accepted. It has to be respected. It has to be protected," he said.

"As I protect my own specific nature, I have to protect others also."

Bhagwat said the RSS believed it had a duty to take this message beyond India.

"We as RSS, we think because we have this knowledge that all humanity is one, it is our duty to go all over the world and tell everybody that in spite of our diversity, we are one," he added.

"Diversity is the rule of nature. Unity is the truth behind it."

The RSS Chief also addressed questions surrounding the organisation's approach towards Muslims.

Recalling an interaction with Muslim participants in Delhi in 2018, he said he had been asked whether Muslims would be driven out of India under the idea of a Hindu nation.

"I said no. That is not Hindu," Bhagwat said.

"If any Hindu thinks that there should be no Muslim in Bharat. He will not remain Hindu."

"If you want to call yourself Hindu, you must believe that all paths are leading to the same. And every human has a dignity. There is no difference between humans," he added.

Bhagwat said dialogue with Muslim and Christian communities in India had continued since that 2018 meeting.

Dialogue and service, he added, must proceed together and begin within communities rather than through political intervention.

"These things do not happen through politics. Sorry to say, but the fact is, politics has now become a game of self-interest," he said.

"We and ours is the solution. So our experience in Bharat is that we have to start with the society."

Bhagwat said political policies could eventually be influenced by building a strong public consensus.

In a democracy, he said, politicians would find it difficult to disregard firmly established public opinion.

"Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such atmosphere of unity," he added.

"We should create at our own place the models of the world we want."

In his remarks, he called for interfaith dialogue to be expanded from national leadership forums to provinces, districts and local blocks.

Local engagement, he said, could correct mistrust and demonstrate how communities could cooperate through service.

"If we together start working, we can change the situation of the world," Bhagwat said.

He cautioned, however, that the effort would require patience because changing ingrained habits and public attitudes would take time.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded in Nagpur in 1925 by K.B. Hedgewar. The organisation marked its centenary in 2025 and describes itself as a volunteer-based cultural and social movement.

Bhagwat has served as the RSS Sarsanghchalak, or chief, since 2009. The organisation has a large network of volunteers and affiliated bodies working in social service, education, labour, student affairs and other fields across India.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has said politics has become a "game of self-interest" and added that lasting change must begin within society before it can influence governments and public policy.

Addressing religious leaders at the "One World, One Humanity" programme in New York, Bhagwat added that political action alone could not create unity or change deeply rooted social attitudes.

"These things do not happen through politics. Sorry to say, but the fact is, politics has now become a game of self-interest," the RSS Chief said.

He added that the emphasis on individual interests had made it harder to find solutions to social divisions.

Collective thinking, he said, offered a better path.

"Where there is me, I am I. There is no solution. We and ours is the solution," he added.

"So our experience in Bharat is that we have to start with the society."

Bhagwat said religious leaders ultimately wanted to influence political decisions, prevent wars and encourage governments to pursue the right policies.

But such efforts, he added, could not begin at the political level.

"We want to change, influence the policies before they happen, influence them in the right way. We want to stop wars, we want to do all these things," he said.

"Therefore we want to influence the politics. We have to at some point of time. But we cannot start with those."

Bhagwat said the process should begin by building public opinion through dialogue, service and practical examples of cooperation.

Democratic governments, he said, depend on the views of citizens.

"Politics today, especially in democracy, it depends on the public view," he said.

"If there is public opinion, then no politician will dare to go against it."

Bhagwat urged participants to take their common commitments back to their countries and begin working within local communities.

"Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such atmosphere of unity," he said.

The RSS Chief said communities should develop working models of the kind of world they wanted to build.

These efforts should then be connected through sustained dialogue, he added.

"We should create at our own place the models of the world we want," Bhagwat said.

"And we should connect. We should keep on this dialogue."

He called for interfaith engagement to move beyond senior religious leaders and reach communities at the provincial, district and block levels.

"If we start at this level and start instructing our own people and then try to have this dialogue in all the countries, in the provinces of those countries, district level, block level, if you go like that, then the atmosphere will change," he said.

Bhagwat cautioned that changing public attitudes would be a long and difficult process.

Knowledge alone, he said, was insufficient unless it shaped conduct and daily practice.

"If we together start working, we can change the situation of the world," he said.

"But it will take long time. It is not so easy to clean up public mind."

Bhagwat has led the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009. The Sarsanghchalak (Chief) is the organisation's highest-ranking office-bearer and provides its broad ideological and organisational direction.

Founded in Nagpur in 1925 by K.B. Hedgewar, the RSS marked its centenary in 2025. It describes itself as a volunteer-based cultural organisation and has a nationwide network of local branches and affiliated bodies.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged religious leaders to create local models of unity and selfless service, saying global change must begin in communities and be sustained through dialogue at every level.

Addressing the "One World, One Humanity" programme in New York, Bhagwat said participants should carry their common resolve back to their countries and turn it into visible action.

"Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such atmosphere of unity," he added.

Bhagwat said that religious leaders should demonstrate through local initiatives how people from different communities could work together.

Successful projects could then be connected across regions and countries, he added.

"We should create at our own place the models of the world we want," he said.

"And we should connect. We should keep on this dialogue."

The RSS Chief called for interfaith engagement to move beyond international conferences and senior religious figures.

Dialogue, he said, should reach people in provinces, districts and smaller administrative blocks.

"This dialogue also we should take to the lower level," Bhagwat added.

"If we start at this level and start instructing our own people and then try to have this dialogue in all the countries, in the provinces of those countries, district level, block level, if you go like that, then the atmosphere will change," he said.

Bhagwat added that the RSS had gained practical experience through its dialogue with Muslim and Christian communities in India.

The engagement began after his 2018 address in Delhi and had continued despite frustration over the slow pace of results.

"So we started that dialogue. Mainly with Muslims and Christians of Bharat," he said.

"And step by step we are going ahead."

He cautioned that changing social attitudes would require patience.

People might understand the principles of goodness and love but still struggle to translate that knowledge into behaviour, he added.

"But now we have to create a situation wherein this knowledge prevails. And this knowledge rules the human behaviour," Bhagwat said.

He added that intellectual understanding alone was not enough.

"Good conduct had to become a habit strong enough to resist the attractions of material gain, power and superiority."

"We have to instill the practice," he said.

"Habit should be changed so radically and new habit should be so strong that it should fight this deflection of the lure of material happiness."

Bhagwat acknowledged that some participants in the continuing interfaith dialogue had questioned whether it was producing results.

"We have sat for seven times, nothing has happened," he quoted participants as telling him.

His response, he said, was: "Okay, continuously, something will happen."

The RSS Chief urged religious leaders not to abandon the effort because results were slow.

He said the work would be laborious and time-consuming but must continue without despair.

"We have to add one more resolve there. That we will pursue this code untiringly for the time it takes," he added.

Bhagwat has served as Sarsanghchalak (Chief) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009. The position is the highest office in the organisation and carries responsibility for its broad ideological and organisational direction.

The RSS was established in Nagpur in 1925 by K.B. Hedgewar and completed 100 years in 2025.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has said the organisation serves people without religious discrimination, citing its response to an air disaster involving two planes from Arab countries whose passengers were predominantly Muslim.

Addressing the "One World, One Humanity" gathering of religious leaders in New York, Bhagwat noted that dialogue between communities must be accompanied by service.

"Dialogue is the first step. Service is another. Not one step after that. It had to start simultaneously," he said.

Bhagwat said service had been central to the RSS since its inception.

Volunteers did not ask about the religion or identity of people who needed assistance, he added.

"Right from our conception. We are serving. And while serving, we don't say, we don't see this discrimination," Bhagwat said.

"Whoever is needing, we are serving."

He said RSS volunteers, supported by society, were operating 130,000 service initiatives of different sizes.

Bhagwat cited the collision of two planes over Haryana to underline his assertion.

He said RSS volunteers reached the site and helped the victims without considering the religion of those on board.

"Both were from Arab countries. Most of the passengers were Muslims," he added.

Bhagwat said the volunteers treated the few survivors, recovered bodies, helped arrange funeral rites and later assisted relatives in identifying the victims.

"We never thought at that time that these are Muslims," he added.

The RSS Chief said the organisation could work in this manner because it was not motivated by politics or the prospect of receiving something in return.

"We could do this because we are not in politics," he said.

"We do it. We only give. We don't want anything."

Bhagwat acknowledged that perceptions had developed about the RSS because it had not publicised much of its work.

He invited people to observe the organisation from within before forming conclusions.

"That is why in publicity matters we are much behind," he said.

"There are many perceptions created by wrong narratives."

"But when you come and see us from inside, all those will be displayed within a day," he added.

Bhagwat said service could also change those receiving assistance.

"People who recovered from hardship through such projects often returned later to help others, without being asked to do so."

"This project has given me so much. I have to give back," Bhagwat said, describing the response of some beneficiaries.

"We don't preach them to do this. But that urge develops."

He urged religious leaders to establish similar examples of selfless service in their countries and connect them through continuing dialogue.

The 1996 Charkhi Dadri mid-air collision over Haryana involved a Saudi Arabian Airlines aircraft and a Kazakhstan Airlines plane. All 349 people aboard the two aircraft were killed in one of the deadliest mid-air collisions in aviation history.

The RSS was founded in Nagpur in 1925 by K.B. Hedgewar and marked its centenary in 2025. The organisation has a nationwide volunteer network, while its affiliated bodies work in areas including education, social service, labour and tribal welfare.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that knowledge alone cannot overcome religious and social divisions, calling for sustained practices that make service, love and respect part of everyday human behaviour.

Speaking at the "One World, One Humanity" programme in New York, Bhagwat added that traditions around the world already contained the knowledge needed to promote peace and unity.

"The problem is not knowledge of human beings," he said.

"In our knowledge, traditional knowledge, all over the world, every society in its tradition has this knowledge somewhere."

The challenge, the RSS Chief said, was to create conditions in which that wisdom guided human conduct.

"But now we have to create a situation wherein this knowledge prevails. And this knowledge rules the human behaviour," Bhagwat said.

"Knowledge of goodness. Knowledge of love. That we have to do."

He said that people often knew the right course but acted differently because of personal preferences and temptations.

Using his own diabetes as an example, Bhagwat said he knew that he should avoid sugar but could still find excuses to eat sweets.

"I know everything," he said.

"But still, when that comes, I say, oh, once I find it, it is all right. I find excuses. I do it."

Human beings behaved similarly despite knowing that religious leaders were offering the right message, Bhagwat added.

Intellectual education by itself could not overcome deeply embedded habits.

"This is a matter not of educating them, intellect twice," Bhagwat said.

"We have to instill the practice."

Religious rituals could help build those habits because they taught people to give, the RSS Chief added.

"Rituals of all religions teach the practice of giving," Bhagwat said.

The RSS Chief cited Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the spiritual teacher of Swami Vivekananda, who studied and practised multiple religious traditions, including Islam and Christianity.

"He (Ramakrishna Paramahamsa) practiced all the religions," Bhagwat said.

"Those of Bharatiya origin and also Islam and Christianity."

Bhagwat said Ramakrishna's conclusion was that different faiths led towards the same destination.

"And then he told us, don't worry. As many ways, as many thoughts. But all lead to one goal," he said.

"That is not theory. Real experience."

He also referred to philosopher and academic R.D. Ranade, who studied mystical traditions across different faiths and cultures.

"He tells that whatever the path, the experience people get are strikingly similar," Bhagwat said.

"There are documented experiences. He has studied all those."

Such teachings, the RSS Chief said, needed to reach ordinary people.

"Individuals must recognise that personal change was necessary before society could resist the desire for material gain, influence and superiority."

"Habit should be changed so radically and new habit should be so strong that it should fight this deflection of the lure of material happiness," he said.

Bhagwat urged religious leaders to continue their work even when visible progress was slow.

The task would be difficult, he said, but abandoning it could allow humanity to return to conflict.

The Ramakrishna movement traces its spiritual foundation to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a 19th-century mystic whose teachings influenced Swami Vivekananda.

Vivekananda introduced Vedanta and yoga to a wider Western audience during his 1893 address in Chicago.

Bhagwat has led the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh since 2009. The organisation was founded in Nagpur in 1925 and marked its centenary in 2025.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has outlined a long-term global outreach strategy built around interfaith dialogue, non-discriminatory service and local cooperation, while saying that social movements must shape public opinion before attempting to influence political decisions.

His address to the "One World, One Humanity" gathering in New York went beyond a broad appeal for religious harmony. It set out how the RSS believes that harmony can be pursued: begin within society, combine dialogue with service, create working models at the community level and continue the effort even when results are slow.

The gathering brought together more than 180 religious leaders and participants from 30 countries. Speakers representing Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and other traditions called for cooperation against war, hatred, poverty and religious persecution.

Bhagwat positioned the RSS as a partner in that effort.

"RSS with all its might is always with you because we are on the same page," he said.

"The starting point of his argument was the idea that religions may differ, but humanity remains one. People describe the same truth in different ways because their experiences and perceptions vary," the RSS Chief said.

"I am working in a society which traditionally says that religions might be different but humanity is one," Bhagwat added.

He distinguished between the destination offered by religion and the rituals used to reach it.

Rituals were necessary to maintain spiritual discipline, he said, but they should not distract followers from religion's central purpose.

"What for religion is there? It is leading us to truth," the RSS Chief said.

Bhagwat compared religious practices to a finger pointing towards a light.

A person who remained focused on the finger would fail to see the light it was indicating, he said.

"Paths are bound to be there and they are bound to be many because there is a difference between our perception," Bhagwat added.

This philosophical argument formed the basis for the RSS chief's call to protect religious pluralism.

"Diversity is a decoration for our innate unity," Bhagwat said.

"It has to be accepted. It has to be respected. It has to be protected."

"As I protect my own specific nature, I have to protect others also," he said.

"Because diversity is the rule of nature. Unity is the truth behind it."

The second major element of the address was service. Bhagwat said interfaith dialogue could not remain confined to conferences or statements. It had to be accompanied by practical work from the beginning.

"Dialogue is the first step. Service is another. Not one step after that. It had to start simultaneously," the RSS Chief added.

He said that RSS volunteers, with support from society, operated 130,000 service projects of different sizes.

Those initiatives helped people without considering their religious identity, he added.

"Whoever is needing, we are serving," Bhagwat said.

"And they serve everywhere, they serve equally."

He cited the response to a collision involving two aircraft over Haryana.

Most of the passengers were Muslim, he said, but RSS volunteers who reached the site did not consider their religion while recovering bodies, assisting the wounded and helping relatives.

"We never thought at that time that these are Muslims," Bhagwat said.

He linked that approach to the RSS' stated distance from electoral politics.

"We could do this because we are not in politics," he said.

"We do it. We only give. We don't want anything."

The address, however, did not suggest that religious and social organisations should remain detached from policymaking.

Bhagwat said they eventually needed to influence governments, including in efforts to prevent wars. His argument was that they should first build social strength and public support.

"These things do not happen through politics. Sorry to say, but the fact is, politics has now become a game of self-interest," he added.

"We and ours is the solution. So our experience in Bharat is that we have to start with the society," Bhagwat said.

He added that democratic politics responded to public opinion.

Creating a social consensus was therefore the most effective route to changing government policy, he said.

"If there is public opinion, then no politician will dare to go against it," the RSS Chief added.

The third component of his approach was decentralisation. Bhagwat asked religious leaders to take dialogue beyond international gatherings and senior institutions.

"Whatever we decide to do today, we should start in our own country and create pockets of such selfless service, such atmosphere of unity," he said.

"We should create at our own place the models of the world we want," he added.

Those local models should be linked through continuing dialogue, he said.

Engagement should eventually extend to provinces, districts and blocks so that relationships between communities were built from the ground up.

The final element was persistence, Bhagwat said.

In his remarks, the RSS Chief acknowledged that dialogue might not produce immediate or easily measurable results.

He referred to continuing engagement with Muslim and Christian communities in India following a speech he delivered in Delhi in 2018.

"So we started that dialogue. Mainly with Muslims and Christians of Bharat," he said.

"And step by step we are going ahead."

Bhagwat said knowledge of goodness and love already existed in religious traditions.

"The harder task was turning it into habitual conduct capable of resisting the attractions of wealth, influence and superiority."

"We have to instill the practice," the RSS Chief said.

"If we together start working, we can change the situation of the world," Bhagwat added.

"But it will take long time."

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh was founded by K.B. Hedgewar in Nagpur in 1925 and completed its centenary in 2025. It describes itself as a volunteer-based cultural organisation, with a nationwide network of local branches and affiliated bodies working in social service, education, labour and other fields.

Mohan Bhagwat, a Veterinary Sciences graduate, became the organisation's sixth Sarsanghchalak (Chief) in 2009.

As the RSS chief, Bhagwat provides its broad ideological and organisational direction and has in recent years participated in outreach and dialogue with representatives of different religious communities.

Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Indian diaspora is a living bridge between India and Uzbekistan as he was greeted by a large gathering of the Indian community in Tashkent during his bilateral visit to the Central Asian nation.

"Overwhelmed by the warmth and affection of the Indian community in Tashkent. Our diaspora is a living bridge between India and Uzbekistan, strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations," PM Modi said on Saturday on social media platform X.

He also appreciated the Indian-Uzbek fusion cultural performances during the welcome, and said that it showcased a deep cultural connect.

"A captivating fusion of Indian and Uzbek musical traditions! The Tabla blends beautifully with the Doira and Chang, showcasing the deep cultural connect between India and Uzbekistan," Prime Minister Modi said, sharing a glimpse of a Tabla performance on X.

A few women from the Indian community also tied a rakhi to PM Modi's hand as he was greeting the Indian community members.

He also witnessed cultural performances by artists. PM Modi was seen intriguingly observing dance performances by children and shook their hands after the performance.

Earlier, PM Modi visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument and said that it reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people.

"Upon landing in Tashkent, went to lay a wreath at the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument with President Mirziyoyev. The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here," he noted on X.

PM Modi was accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as both leaders examined the artwork representing Uzbek culture and history at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park.

PM Modi thanked President Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation.

In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years.

"Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi said on X after landing in Tashkent.

Source: IANS

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Hyderabad, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Mauritius Minister for Public Service and Administrative Reforms Luchmanen Pethia met the Telangana Minister for IT and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat here.

Both Ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Mauritius and Telangana across multiple sectors, a press statement from the state government said on Saturday.

According to the statement, the discussions focused on public administration, tourism, information technology and IT-enabled services (ITeS), emerging technologies, skill development and education.

Pethia said Mauritius considered Telangana a trusted partner and expressed interest in greater collaboration in capacity building and modern administrative practices.

He sought the Telangana government's support in strengthening the capabilities of Mauritius government employees through training programmes, knowledge-sharing and exposure to best practices.

The Mauritius Minister also expressed interest in establishing closer cooperation with the Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute (MCRHRD), Young India Skills University and other educational and skill-development institutions in Telangana.

Sridhar Babu said Telangana was ready to extend its cooperation to Mauritius across sectors and highlighted the importance the state government attaches to international partnerships and knowledge exchange.

He added that Telangana had developed considerable expertise in areas such as information technology, emerging technologies, skills and public administration, which could provide opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation with Mauritius.

Sridhar Babu also invited Pethia to participate in the Telangana Rising Global Summit 2026, scheduled to be organised by the state government on December 7 and 8.

Industries Department Special Secretary Krishna Aditya and Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Joint Secretary Anudeep Durishetty, among others, were also present.

According to officials, the meeting underlined the growing scope for institutional cooperation and knowledge exchange between Telangana and Mauritius.

The focus was on governance, technology, education and skill development.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Saturday said that a 4th flight from India with an additional 11 tonnes of assistance has been dispatched to Nepal in a C-130 aircraft, as the Himalayan Nation was hit with devastating floods on Wednesday.

“The 4th flight from India with 11 tonnes of assistance is now airborne. The C-130 aircraft is carrying: A Tunnel technical contingent along with equipment for search & rescue operations. A team of forensic experts for DNA analysis along with Forensic equipment. Relief supplies, including blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulin, plastic sheets and hygiene kits,” EAM Jaishankar stated on X.

He noted that 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot Single Lane Modular Steel Bridge have reached Nepal, and Equipment for installation of seven more Bailey bridges will be supplied soon.

According to him, technical teams for their installation are expected to reach shortly. So far, a total of 68.5 tonnes of relief material comprising essential medicines, portable generator sets, food packets, water purification tablets and technical equipment have been airlifted to Kathmandu.

“Our support to the relief and rescue efforts of Nepal continues,” he added.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on Wednesday, an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J Hercules airlifted 10 tonnes of emergency relief material such as temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, and medicines.

On Thursday, an IAF C-17 Globemaster airlifted 37.5 tonnes of relief items, including 28.5 tonnes of tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, dewatering pumps, kitchen sets, gensets; 8 tonnes of medicines; and 1 tonne of food items.

Subsequently, on Friday, a C-130J Hercules airlifted a 5-member Indian Army tunnel rescue recce team and a 6-member medical team, and another 10 tonnes of material including portable gensets, dignity kits, food, water purification tablets, and medicines. The technical team for tunnel rescue started working today to assist in tunnel rescue in the impacted area.

“Further targeted assistance, as per the requirements of Nepal, is being mobilised. This includes Bailey bridges and associated technical teams for restoring connectivity and helping in relief efforts. One Bailey bridge is already in Nepal and can be deployed in the affected parts,” the MEA stated.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday said that contact has been reestablished with 50 Indian nationals and rescued a total of 108 members, reducing the number of missing Indian nationals in Nepal to 275, after the devastating floods on Wednesday.

“Till date, 108 Indian nationals have been rescued in Nepal, and contact was re-established with around 50 Indian nationals who were earlier uncontactable. Furthermore, 598 Indian nationals have safely crossed into Nepal from China in the last two days, as per local Government sources in China. Around 900 Indian nationals are still on the Chinese side but are safe and contactable. Unfortunately, more than 275 Indian nationals and 128 persons of Indian origin remain missing or non-contactable,” MEA stated.

According to the Ministry, the Indian Embassies in Kathmandu and Beijing have also remained engaged with all the relevant stakeholders to ensure effective coordination of search, rescue and relief efforts, in connection with Indian nationals impacted by the flash flood.

“Our Missions have also ensured sustained efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of rescued Indian nationals apart from facilitating their return to India, wherever required, and are monitoring and facilitating the transit of Indian nationals returning from the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra through Nepal,” MEA said.

“As neighbours, India and Nepal share special and close relations, underpinned by civilizational ties and extensive people-to-people linkages. With many Indian nationals having also lost their lives, the people of India share in the grief caused by these devastating flash floods. India stands in solidarity with Nepal in this tragic time, and remains committed to providing all possible assistance,” the MEA said.

Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Nepal said that the Nepal government has been releasing photographs and descriptions of the deceased, which can be accessed through the nepal police website.

“The Embassy of India, Kathmandu, is working closely with Nepali authorities, including the Nepal Police, to ensure that the mortal remains of Indian nationals can be handed over to the next of kin after identification. The Embassy will provide further updates on this matter in coordination with Nepali authorities,” the Embassy noted in a statement.

Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday received a grand welcome from India community in Uzbekistan, with people cheering and chanting “Modi Modi”, Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

A few women from the Indian community also tied a rakhi to PM Modi’s hand as he was greeting the community members.

He also witnessed cultural performances by artists. PM Modi was seen intriguingly observing dance performances by children and shook their hands after the performance.

Earlier, PM Modi visited the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument and said that it reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people.

“Upon landing in Tashkent, went to lay a wreath at the Yangi Uzbekistan Monument with President Mirziyoyev. The Yangi Uzbekistan Monument reflects the aspirations and progress of the Uzbek people. Glad to begin my visit by coming here,” PM Modi stated on X.

PM Modi was accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as both leaders examined the artwork representing Uzbek culture and history at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park.

Earlier, PM Modi thanked President Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation.

In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years.

"Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi posted on X after landing in Tashkent.

During the visit, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev, advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.

"In recent years, the India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

Source: IANS

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Washington, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The White House has declared that the United States controls the Strait of Hormuz, claiming American forces have cleared Iranian mines, protected nearly 1,500 commercial vessels and prevented Tehran from exporting oil through the strategic waterway.

In a statement citing the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the White House said American forces were keeping global energy supplies moving while denying Iran revenue that Washington says could be used to threaten international commerce.

The assertions were presented by the administration as evidence supporting President Donald Trump’s repeated statements that the US Navy had gained control over the strait. The White House release did not include a response from Iran.

According to the administration, Iranian mines have been cleared from international shipping lanes in the strait.

It said nearly 1,500 commercial vessels had travelled through the waterway under US protection, carrying 750 million barrels of crude oil to international markets.

The White House also claimed that Iran had exported no oil from its shores since an American blockade resumed in July. It said US forces had turned around 75 vessels that attempted to break the blockade.

Gulf oil exports have recovered to about two-thirds of the levels recorded before the US operation and continue to rise, the statement said.

“The only one that has control of the Strait of Hormuz right now is the United States Navy,” Trump said on August 10.

“We have a blockade that’s been infallible. It’s a steel wall… We control the Strait, 100%,” he added.

Trump has repeated the assertion several times during August. On Thursday, he said the United States had control of the strait while Iran was receiving nothing through it.

“The Strait of Hormuz is open. We have control, and we have the blockade. Iran is not getting anything; nothing is going through,” Trump said.

The administration argued that Iran’s ability to use the strategically important passage as leverage had been weakened by American military operations and the blockade on Iranian exports.

Former deputy national security adviser KT McFarland said Iran had overplayed its hand by closing the strait.

“For 50 yrs Iran blackmailed world. No longer. That card is dead,” McFarland said in remarks cited by the White House.

John Spencer, chair of urban warfare studies at West Point, said the US blockade was effective despite statements coming from Tehran.

“Iran’s claims that it has closed the Strait of Hormuz are false. It has neither closed the strait nor effectively stopped maritime traffic,” he said.

The White House said the blockade formed part of a broader campaign of economic pressure designed to cut Iran off from sources of revenue.

“The economic pressure on the Iranian regime is only tightening,” the administration said.

It cited Operation Economic Outcast, a US campaign aimed at isolating Iran economically and disrupting what Washington describes as Tehran’s remaining financial lifelines.

The White House said Trump would continue applying pressure on Iran until the country was no longer able to threaten the international community. It did not specify what military or diplomatic conditions would lead Washington to end the blockade.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Oil and liquefied natural gas exports from several Gulf countries move through the waterway, making its security important to energy-importing countries, including India.

Source: IANS

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Colombo, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Acting High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Maitrey Kulkarni, on Saturday inaugurated a RO Water Treatment Plant at Monaragala District General Hospital, along with R M Jayawardena, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security and Cooperative Development.

“Acting High Commissioner Maitrey Kulkarni inaugurated a RO Water Treatment Plant at Monaragala District General Hospital, together with Hon. R. M. Jayawardena, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security and Cooperative Development. This gift from the people of India will ensure access to clean and safe drinking water for patients, visitors and hospital staff, further strengthening India–Sri Lanka development partnership in the healthcare sector,” the Consulate General of India in Hambantota, Sri Lanka stated on X.

On Thursday, the High Commissioner met the Governor of Southern Province, Susiripala Manawadu. Discussions centred on various initiatives underway.

“Acting HC Maitrey Kulkarni met Hon’ble Governor of Southern Province, Prof. Susiripala Manawadu. Discussions centred on various India-Sri Lanka initiatives underway, particularly those focused on further strengthening cultural, educational and people-to-people ties between India and the Southern Province,” the Consulate stated on X.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, co-chaired the 41st Board Meeting of the India–Sri Lanka Foundation in New Delhi, along with the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, Mahishini Colonne.

“Today, co-chaired the 41st Board Meeting of the India–Sri Lanka Foundation in New Delhi, along with the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, Mahishini Colonne.

Board Members Mohan Kumar, Ashok Malik, and Prasad Kariyawasam also attended the meeting, Ambassador Jha stated on X.

“The meeting reviewed the Foundation’s ongoing initiatives and examined new project proposals to deepen India-Sri Lanka ties across education, culture, science, technology, and other areas,” he added.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Vientiane, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, on Saturday visited the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage City of Luang Prabang, which is being preserved by Government of India (GoI) funded projects.

“Delighted to visit the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang and witness GoI-funded Quick Impact Projects preserving our shared heritage, promoting tourism and benefiting communities at the grassroots,” MoS Margherita stated on X.

“Witnessed the signing of the MoU between India and Laos for the conservation and restoration of the mural paintings at Wat Pa Khae Temple, with GoI assistance, and unveiled a plaque marking the project. The Ramayana and Jataka-themed paintings beautifully reflect the deep civilizational and cultural connect between India and Laos,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Margherita interacted with the Indian diaspora in Laos and appreciated their contribution in strengthening ties between the two nations.

“Wonderful interacting with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Lao PDR. Appreciated their immense contribution to strengthening the close, friendly ties between our two nations. Our community continues to serve as an invaluable living bridge,” MoS Margherita stated on X.

He also interacted with the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) alumni in Vientiane.

“Interacted with the vibrant ITEC and ICCR alumni in Vientiane. Truly inspiring to see how India's capacity-building partnerships continue to contribute to the developmental journey of Lao PDR and reinforce our profound people-to-people ties. Our alumni remain the strongest pillars of our bilateral friendship, fostering deeper civilizational connects, goodwill, and mutual trust. Actively advancing India's Act East Policy!” MoS stated on X.

He also inaugurated the performance of the iconic Phra Lak Phra Lam at the National Theatre in Vientiane.

“Delighted to inaugurate the performance of the iconic 'Phra Lak Phra Lam' at the National Theatre in Vientiane today. Supported through Indian grant assistance, this showcase of the Lao adaptation of the Ramayana highlights our deep-rooted civilizational links and vibrant cultural exchange. Proud to witness our shared heritage coming alive on stage, further strengthening the close bond between our peoples,” noted Margherita.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid a wreath at Yangi Uzbekistan Park in Tashkent, honouring Uzbekistan’s rich history, heritage and national spirit.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at Yangi Uzbekistan Park in Tashkent, honouring Uzbekistan’s rich history, heritage and national spirit. The occasion underscored the deep-rooted and longstanding friendship between India and Uzbekistan,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on X.

PM Modi was accompanied by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev as both leaders examined the artwork representing Uzbek culture and history at the Yangi Uzbekistan Park.

Earlier, PM Modi thanked President Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation.

In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years.

"Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi posted on X after landing in Tashkent.

During the visit, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev, advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.

"In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

Prime Minister Modi said that he will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, which he called "a tribute to the close cultural and people-to-people ties" that bind India and Uzbekistan together.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday thanked Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for the warm welcome at Tashkent airport as he began his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation.

In a special gesture, Mirziyoyev travelled to the airport and received PM Modi, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years.

"Landed in Tashkent to a warm welcome by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Grateful to him for the special gesture. This is my fourth visit to Uzbekistan, reflecting the depth and growing momentum of our bilateral relations," PM Modi posted on X after landing in Tashkent.

During his visit, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev, advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.

"In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

Prime Minister Modi said that he will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, which he called "a tribute to the close cultural and people-to-people ties" that bind India and Uzbekistan together.

People of Uzbekistan have been eagerly looking forward to welcoming PM Modi in Tashkent and hope that his visit will add new momentum to the friendly ties between both countries.

“Welcome Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. We Uzbek people are very happy to hear the news of your arrival. We wish that the friendly ties between the two countries keep on growing…..Jai Hind, Jai Bharat, Jai Uzbekistan,” an Uzbek woman said ahead of PM Modi’s arrival.

This will be PM Modi's fourth visit to Uzbekistan. He had earlier visited Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries in 2015, followed by visits in 2016 and 2022 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summits.

India and Uzbekistan have maintained extensive and fruitful engagements both in bilateral and multilateral formats over the past many years. The Uzbek President visited India for a State Visit in 2018, and he also participated in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2019.

From Tashkent, PM Modi will travel to Bishkek at the invitation of Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov to participate in the 26th SCO Summit, marking 25 years of the organisation.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Jakarta/New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) India's interest in Indonesia's Sabang port has been evident since the 2018 “Shared Vision of India-Indonesia on Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific”, which envisaged stronger connectivity between the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Sumatra, a report has stated.

The initiative led to the formation of joint task forces, feasibility discussions and proposals for a Sabang-Port Blair connection, although most of the plans have yet to translate into commercial operations.

Situated at a strategically important location, Sabang port strengthens the maritime link between India and Indonesia, according to a report in the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI).

“India’s interest in developing Sabang port in northern Sumatra is often interpreted as a response to China’s expanding maritime presence in the Indian Ocean. This does not capture India’s more immediate priorities. Sabang will acquire strategic weight only if it first succeeds as a commercial, locally beneficial, Indonesian-led project. It is not an Indian base-in-waiting,” the report mentioned.

“During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July visit to Jakarta, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed India’s interest in the integrated development of Sabang port. Its location at the northern tip of Sumatra, across the Andaman Sea from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, invites speculation about naval access, but the project’s more immediate promise is the creation of a maritime corridor that supports trade, local development and regular cooperation,” it added.

The report noted that the July joint statement issued by India and Indonesia gives the project greater substance, identifying cruise and marine tourism, ship repair, shipbuilding and shore-based services for offshore energy activities. It also directed officials to clarify the project’s scope, financing and development phases.

“For India, the Sabang project is an opportunity to explore the economic potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands are not merely a security asset but a platform for transhipment, tourism and regional engagement, developed through the Great Nicobar Project. Sabang can boost the islands’ commercial links with Indonesia along a Sabang-Port Blair corridor that supports passenger and cargo services, repair contracts, offshore-energy activity and skills exchanges, as well as greater movement of people and goods across the Andaman Sea,” the ASPI report detailed.

“For Indonesia, Sabang could attract investment, technology and employment to Aceh, strengthen maritime industries and reinforce Indonesia’s role as the gateway between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The project needs to be visibly Indonesian-led, consistent with national regulations and tied to local economic priorities, rather than presented as infrastructure that primarily benefits another country,” it stated.

According to the report, Sabang should not be viewed as India’s answer to China’s ‘String of Pearls’, or a “prospective Indian base”. It stated that the agreement makes no provision for permanent operational access or a standing security presence, while Indonesia’s long-guarded sovereignty makes such an arrangement unlikely.

“India’s objective is more modest and realistic – to improve maritime awareness, build logistical familiarity and deepen cooperation with regional partners in the eastern Indian Ocean. Sabang fits a strategy of presence through partnership rather than dominance through access,” it stressed.

Source: IANS

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Vientiane, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, on Saturday interacted with the Indian diaspora in Laos and appreciated their contribution in strengthening ties between the two nations.

“Wonderful interacting with the vibrant Indian diaspora in Lao PDR. Appreciated their immense contribution to strengthening the close, friendly ties between our two nations. Our community continues to serve as an invaluable living bridge,” MoS Margherita stated on X.

He also interacted with the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) alumni in Vientiane.

“Interacted with the vibrant ITEC and ICCR alumni in Vientiane. Truly inspiring to see how India's capacity-building partnerships continue to contribute to the developmental journey of Lao PDR and reinforce our profound people-to-people ties. Our alumni remain the strongest pillars of our bilateral friendship, fostering deeper civilizational connects, goodwill, and mutual trust. Actively advancing India's Act East Policy!” MoS stated on X.

Earlier in the day, Margherita held an interaction with stakeholders from the tourism and textile sectors of Laos.

“Had a productive interaction with prominent stakeholders from the tourism and textile sectors of Lao PDR in Vientiane. Explored avenues to enhance bilateral trade, promote sustainable tourism, and revive traditional textile links. Our shared and rich civilizational heritage offers immense potential to boost economic synergy, create livelihoods, and deepen business-to-business (B2B) connect,” Margherita said on X.

He also inaugurated the performance of the iconic Phra Lak Phra Lam at the National Theatre in Vientiane.

“Delighted to inaugurate the performance of the iconic 'Phra Lak Phra Lam' at the National Theatre in Vientiane today. Supported through Indian grant assistance, this showcase of the Lao adaptation of the Ramayana highlights our deep-rooted civilizational links and vibrant cultural exchange. Proud to witness our shared heritage coming alive on stage, further strengthening the close bond between our peoples,” noted Margherita.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Kathmandu, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) A specialised technical team from India has begun on-site reconnaissance of hydropower tunnels in Nepal’s flash flood-affected areas to facilitate the search and rescue of people stranded inside the tunnels, the Indian Embassy in Nepal said on Saturday.

India sent an 11-member rescue team comprising doctors, paramedics and personnel specialising in tunnel rescue operations at Nepal's request.

The specialised technical team reached the Trishuli 3A Hydropower Project in Rasuwa district, where rescue efforts are underway for people believed to be trapped inside a tunnel following the flash flood.

According to Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the Indian team planned to conduct an initial aerial reconnaissance of the Chilime and Langtang areas by helicopter before proceeding with further rescue operations as required.

A joint team of 82 Nepali security personnel, including 62 members of the Nepali Army and 20 personnel from the Armed Police Force Nepal and Nepal Police, has been continuously deployed since Friday night to clear the tunnel entrance and accelerate the search operation, the PMO said.

“The rescue efforts have become highly challenging due to the adverse weather conditions prevailing in the area,” the PMO said in a statement.

With the rescue operation progressing slowly due to the limitations of local expertise, Nepal sought cooperation from India and China.

The Embassy said India continues to support Nepal’s ongoing relief and rescue efforts and remains engaged with Nepali authorities in the search and rescue of Indian nationals affected by the flash floods.

The Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN), an association representing the country’s private power producers, said as many as 934 people associated with 11 hydropower projects in Nepal’s flood-affected Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts remain out of contact.

According to the association, 730 people associated with six hydropower projects in Rasuwa and 204 people linked to five projects in Nuwakot remain out of contact following the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi River on August 26. The floods caused extensive damage to hydropower projects and other infrastructure in the two districts.

According to IPPAN, the August 26 floods affected 13 hydropower projects in Rasuwa and Nuwakot, with a combined installed capacity of 675.6 MW.

Meanwhile, the First Secretary (Commerce) at the Embassy of India met Indian workers recently rescued from the Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower project to ascertain their safety and well-being, the Embassy said.

The flash flood caused extensive damage to infrastructure and disrupted hydropower projects and access routes in the affected areas, prompting Nepal and India to intensify search, rescue and relief operations.

Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tashkent Saturday evening, kicking off his two-day State Visit to the Central Asian nation. In a special gesture, Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received PM Modi at the airport, highlighting the friendship between both countries that has grown immensely over the last 12 years.

During his visit, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with President Mirziyoyev, advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030.

"In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

Prime Minister Modi said that he will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, which he called "a tribute to the close cultural and people-to-people ties" that bind India and Uzbekistan together.

People of Uzbekistan have been eagerly looking forward to welcoming PM Modi in Tashkent and hope that his visit will add new momentum to the friendly ties between both countries.

“Welcome Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. We Uzbek people are very happy to hear the news of your arrival. We wish that the friendly ties between the two countries keep on growing…..Jai Hind, Jai Bharat, Jai Uzbekistan,” an Uzbek woman said ahead of PM Modi’s arrival.

This will be PM Modi's fourth visit to Uzbekistan. He had earlier visited Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries in 2015, followed by visits in 2016 and 2022 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summits.

India and Uzbekistan have maintained extensive and fruitful engagements both in bilateral and multilateral formats over the past many years. The Uzbek President visited India for a State Visit in 2018, and he also participated in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2019.

From Tashkent, PM Modi will travel to Bishkek at the invitation of Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov to participate in the 26th SCO Summit, marking 25 years of the organisation.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday stated that four more Indian nationals were rescued from a hydropower project in Nepal's Rasuwa, bringing the total number of rescued Indian nationals to 88.

The ministry confirmed that the rescued individuals are Ripu Kumar, Chaneshwar Narzary, Kripa Shankar and Mohammed Minhajuddin.

The MEA also stated that 120 Indian nationals crossed into Nepal from China on Saturday.

It mentioned that 287 Indian nationals still remain missing and 128 persons of Indian origin also remain missing as of 5 pm on Saturday.

A six-member forensic experts team from India is expected to reach Kathmandu on Saturday to assist in the analysis of DNA samples for identification of mortal remains.

“A specialised technical team for tunnel rescue reconnaissance reached Kathmandu yesterday and started working from today to assist in tunnel rescue in the impacted area. Based on their recommendation, a specialised tunnel rescue team from India with equipment is expected to reach Nepal today,” MEA stated.

Meanwhile, Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Saturday expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu for her concern and the support extended by the government of India following the devastating flash floods in Nepal that left hundreds dead and caused widespread destruction.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Nepal, I extend our deepest gratitude to Your Excellency Smt Droupadi Murmu for your kind concern and also for the generous support and solidarity extended by your government following the recent calamity in Nepal,” the Office of the President of Nepal posted on X.

Paudel also conveyed condolences over the tragic loss of Indian lives in the aftermath of the catastrophic flood on Wednesday.

“We also offer our heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Government and the people of India for the tragic loss of Indian lives in the disaster of August 26, 2026," he stated.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Kathmandu, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Nepal is in close communication and coordination with its immediate neighbours and the international community following the devastating floods that have left several foreign nationals missing, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said on Saturday.

Addressing mediapersons in Kathmandu, Khanal said the Nepali government had established a dedicated Emergency Control Room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate information and assistance related to foreign nationals affected by the disaster.

“As many foreign nationals are also missing, a dedicated Emergency Control Room has been established at the Ministry,” Khanal said.

He said Nepal’s diplomatic missions abroad are constantly sharing and updating verified information while facilitating communication with the families of those affected.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), at least 517 foreign nationals remain missing, while India’s Ministry of External Affairs has reported that at least 288 Indian nationals are out of contact.

The Foreign Minister said Nepal’s diplomatic missions abroad have also been extending necessary assistance for the identification and repatriation of foreign nationals.

Nepal has sought specialised assistance from its friendly neighbours to strengthen search-and-rescue operations in areas severely affected by the floods, including efforts to rescue people trapped inside tunnels, Khanal said.

“Nepal has requested specific technical support in opening tunnels where people may be trapped, using technologies to locate survivors in affected areas, conducting rapid forensic and DNA analysis, and providing mortuary facilities for the safe preservation of recovered bodies,” he said.

According to Khanal, an 11-member specialised technical reconnaissance team from India has been mobilised to support tunnel rescue operations.

The Chinese Embassy in Nepal has also announced on social media that Chinese tunnel experts have arrived in Nepal to support rescue and relief efforts. The embassy also shared a video showing the experts arriving by helicopter.

Khanal expressed gratitude to Nepal’s friends and international partners for their solidarity, goodwill and generous offers of assistance during the crisis.

“From India, we have already received more than 57 tonnes of relief materials,” he said.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also announced on Saturday on social media that a third flight carrying assistance from India had arrived in Kathmandu.

“Relief supplies and an 11-member medical and tunnel rescue team are now on the ground,” Jaishankar said.

According to Khanal, essential relief items were also being received from China, Japan, Australia and other partner countries.

“As relief operations continue, further assessments are being made and we will reach out to our neighbours and international partners for additional assistance and support as needed,” Khanal said.

He also said Nepal could seek international assistance for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of infrastructure and other assets damaged by the devastating floods.

Khanal said a detailed assessment of the damage and needs was currently underway following extensive destruction of critical infrastructure, houses, roads, bridges and hydropower facilities.

“A detailed assessment of the needs is currently underway, and a report will be ready soon,” he said.

Source: IANS

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Cape Town, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) The expanding influence of BRICS in the global economy reflects a major transformation towards a more balanced, inclusive and multipolar world order. Against this backdrop, the September Summit in New Delhi could prove decisive in advancing deeper climate cooperation and shaping global resilience to climate change, a report has stated.

For New Delhi, the host of this year’s Summit, the term “Viksit Bharat”, India's vision of becoming a developed country by 2047, is particularly apt — reflecting an aspiration that the country hopes can extend to all developing nations, according to a report in South African news website ‘The National’.

“Developing countries will gather in New Delhi in September for the 18th edition of the summit, with a key pillar focusing on building resilience in agriculture and in disaster risk reduction. Climate-related risks are ever present in developing economies - severe droughts, floods, heatwaves, and cyclones—that threaten high-exposure infrastructure, food security, and macroeconomic stability, prompting coordinated disaster risk reduction frameworks and local-currency climate financing strategies,” the report detailed.

“BRICS countries are adapting to climate change and introducing green energy as developing countries embrace the solutions for the challenges that will come in the years to come. Climate cooperation is essential to India's hosting of the summit, with climate experts stressing that the climate agenda is increasingly shifting from discussions about the pace of emissions reductions to practical adaptation measures,” it added.

The report noted that climate cooperation has remained a key focus of previously held BRICS Summits. At the 2015 Summit in Ufa, Russia, member countries expressed their readiness to tackle climate change at both the global and national levels. Additionally, at the 17th Summit in Rio de Janeiro, leaders agreed on key documents, including the BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance and a broader Climate Leadership Agenda.

“Across BRICS nations, a clean energy transition is already full speed ahead, with wind and solar projects outnumbering planned fossil fuel plants. What is missing is a joint financial architecture to match that momentum. India’s BRICS presidency is about a joint financial architecture to match the speed of the transition to clean energy and the opportunity to build it beyond declaration and toward delivery,” The National mentioned.

According to the report, India as BRICS chair could accelerate the implementation of three specific mechanisms.

“First, BRICS can amplify the reach of Project Bridge, the blockchain-enabled multi-CBDC platform developed by BRICS’ central banks, as a settlement layer for climate finance transactions, reducing dollar intermediation and transaction costs for cross-border green investment within the bloc. Second, India can push a formal framework for strategically utilising Gulf Sovereign Wealth Fund co-investment in NDB climate projects,” the report highlighted

“Third, accelerate the rupee bond program across BRICS currencies, leveraging India’s expertise in building large-scale, low-cost digital public infrastructure (DPI) frameworks,” it stressed.

Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday appreciated the enthusiasm of kids from Uzbekistan who had expressed their excitement in a video ahead of his arrival in Tashkent.

“As I am about to begin my Uzbekistan visit, I am very happy to see the enthusiasm of my young friends from Uzbekistan, beautifully expressed in this video. What makes it even more special is the fact that they did it in Hindi and they did it so well!” PM Modi stated on X, sharing the video of Uzbeki kids expressing their excitement.

“Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, welcome to Tashkent. My name is Samandhar, and we are students of Tashkent. We are eagerly waiting for your arrival in Tashkent, Shri Narendra Modi ji. We are waiting for you in Tashkent,” a young student from Uzbekistan said in Hindi.

"Namaste Shri Narendra Modi ji, the land of Tashkent is calling you; we are eagerly waiting for the beautiful meeting. Modi ji, we are waiting for you in Tashkent,” a young Uzbek student said in the video message.

Expressing her excitement as she got ready to welcome PM Modi, another student mentioned that they learn Hindi and noted that there is a lot of influence from Indian culture in the Central Asian country,

Earlier in the day, PM Modi emplaned on a two-nation tour to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. He expressed confidence that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia. PM Modi is travelling to Tashkent on a two-day bilateral visit at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan."

The Prime Minister said that he will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, which he called "a tribute to the close cultural and people-to-people ties" that bind India and Uzbekistan together.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) People of Uzbekistan are eagerly looking forward to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tashkent Saturday evening and hope that his visit will add new momentum to the friendly ties between both countries.

“Welcome Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. We Uzbek people are very happy to hear the news of your arrival. We wish that the friendly ties between the two countries keep on growing…..Jai Hind, Jai Bharat, Jai Uzbekistan,” an Uzbeki woman said ahead of PM Modi’s arrival.

A senior Hindi Teacher and Indologist, Bayot Rakhmatov, said that PM Modi’s upcoming visit to the University of Oriental Studies in Tashkent is notable and that it will encourage the people to work harder.

“This is a very good thing. Our University of Oriental Studies, we can say, is very advanced in the field of Indology in Central Asia; we can say it holds the first position. The researchers and teachers at our university have published many books related to India, and in the last 10 years there has been a lot of focus on the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi… Narendra Modi ji coming to our university is a notable thing, and the people he is going to meet will be more motivated to work in this university,” Rakhmatov told IANS

A senior journalist and Indologist, Akhmadjan Kasimov, said that the relations between India and Uzbekistan became strong since PM Modi became Prime Minister and noted that the current visit will play an important role in furthering cooperation.

"Over the past 12 years, since Prime Minister Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the friendship between our two countries has become stronger, and year by year, the friendship between our two countries has been growing. In this direction, I think Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Uzbekistan will play a very important role in further strengthening cooperation between our two countries," Kasimov told IANS.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi emplaned for his two-nation tour to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and expressed confidence that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia.

He is travelling to Tashkent for a two-day bilateral visit at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

"In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will lead the Indian delegation for a High-Level Commemorative Meeting scheduled from August 31-September 1 in Serbia's capital Belgrade, marking the 65th anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday.

According to the MEA, the meeting will commemorate the First Conference of Heads of State or Government (HoS/HoG) of NAM.

The theme for the High-Level Commemorative Meeting is 'The Legacy of Non-Alignment: Lessons for Today's World'.

"India is a founding member of the movement which brings together 121 developing countries on a platform of historical significance. India remains committed to the principles and values of the movement," the MEA mentioned.

The NAM traces its origins to the 1955 Bandung Conference in Indonesia, where Asian and African nations promoted principles of sovereignty, peaceful coexistence, non-interference and opposition to colonialism.

Six years later, the movement was formally established at its first summit in Belgrade. Today, NAM continues to champion multilateralism and the interests of developing countries, especially within the United Nations system.

Earlier in October 2025, at the 19th NAM Mid-Term Ministerial in Uganda's Kampala, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh had underscored the need for global cooperation against the shared threat of cross-border terrorism, highlighting India's perspective.

Addressing the session, Singh had said, "Terrorism is a shared threat that can be addressed only through deeper international cooperation. For decades, India has been a victim of barbaric cross-border terrorist attacks, most recently on April 22, 2025, when innocent tourists were slaughtered in Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir.

"When nations declare terror as state policy, when terror hubs are allowed to proliferate with impunity, when terrorists are glorified by the functionaries of a State, such actions deserve nothing but unequivocal condemnation," he had said, taking a clear dig at Pakistan.

The MoS had also emphasised that virtually every member of NAM is cognisant of the challenge posed by terrorism and is committed to combating it.

Referring to Pakistan, Singh said, "It is a matter of deep regret that when the UN Security Council deliberated on the Pahalgam terrorist attack, a member state chose to defend the perpetrator – The Resistance Front – to the extent of seeking a deletion of any public reference to them.

"It is imperative that the Non-Aligned Movement display zero tolerance for terrorism. Any sponsorship, support, justification or cover-up of terrorism will come back to bite those who do so," he stressed.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 29 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplaned for his two-nation tour to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on Saturday, and expressed confidence that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia.

He will first travel to Tashkent for a two-day bilateral visit at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

In his departure statement, PM Modi said, "In recent years, India-Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership has seen significant advancement. I look forward to my discussions with President Mirziyoyev on further deepening our cooperation in trade and investment, digital connectivity, defence, energy, and on advancing our shared visions of Viksit Bharat and Yangi Uzbekistan."

The Prime Minister said that he will also visit the Shastri Memorial and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, which he called "a tribute to the close cultural and people-to-people ties" that bind India and Uzbekistan together.

This will be PM Modi's fourth visit to Uzbekistan. He had earlier visited Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries in 2015, followed by visits in 2016 and 2022 to attend the SCO Summits.

India and Uzbekistan have maintained extensive and fruitful engagements both in bilateral and multilateral formats over the past many years. The Uzbek President visited India for a State Visit in 2018, and he also participated in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2019.

From Tashkent, PM Modi will travel to Bishkek at the invitation of Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov to participate in the 26th SCO Summit, marking 25 years of the organisation.

"India has been an active and constructive member of the SCO since 2017. I look forward to advancing India's vision for the region, anchored in Security, Connectivity and Opportunity, and to working with fellow members for a region free from the scourge of terrorism, separatism and extremism, which continue to threaten peace and stability in our neighbourhood and beyond," he said in the departure statement.

"I also look forward to meeting President Zhaparov and other SCO leaders, and to attending the Opening Ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games, a celebration of the rich living heritage of Central Asia that India holds in deep respect," the Prime Minister said.

"I am confident that this visit will strengthen India's strategic partnerships in Central Asia, deepen our civilisational connect with the region, and advance our shared pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity, values that lie at the heart of India's engagement with the world," PM Modi added.

Source: IANS

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Washington, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau will travel to four Pacific island countries next week, officials here said.

Landau will visit Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Solomon Islands and Kiribati from August 31 to September 11, the State Department said on Friday.

The tour comes as the United States seeks to strengthen its diplomatic and security presence across the Pacific amid growing strategic competition with China.

Beijing was not mentioned in the State Department’s announcement.

In Palau, Landau will represent the United States at a meeting between leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum and the organisation’s dialogue partners.

The forum brings together Pacific governments to discuss regional priorities, including maritime security, climate resilience, economic development, fisheries and disaster preparedness.

Landau is expected to hold talks with government officials and business leaders during the four-country tour.

The State Department said the meetings would advance economic and security priorities and underscore Washington’s commitment to the Pacific region.

US Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday will accompany Landau during his stops in Palau, Micronesia and the Solomon Islands.

The department said Lunday’s participation recognised the Coast Guard’s important role in promoting maritime security across the region.

Pacific island countries oversee large Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) despite having relatively small populations and limited maritime enforcement resources. Illegal fishing, trafficking and unauthorised activity by foreign vessels are continuing concerns.

The Coast Guard works with regional governments through training, joint patrols and shiprider agreements. Such arrangements allow local enforcement personnel to travel aboard US vessels and exercise their country’s legal authority within its territorial waters.

Lieutenant-General George Rowell, a deputy commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, will also join the delegation in Palau.

Bill Hague, the Interior Department’s assistant secretary for insular and international affairs, will participate in the Palau portion of the trip.

The presence of senior diplomatic, military, Coast Guard and Interior Department officials reflects the range of Washington’s relationships in the Pacific.

The Interior Department administers programmes connected with the United States’ Compacts of Free Association with Palau, Micronesia and the Marshall Islands.

Under those agreements, the three countries are sovereign states but maintain close economic and security ties with Washington.

The United States provides financial support and access to some federal programmes. In return, Washington receives extensive defence rights and assumes responsibility for the countries’ security.

Palau and Micronesia occupy strategically important locations across the western Pacific. Both have also supported the United States in international forums.

The Solomon Islands and Kiribati do not have compacts with Washington. US engagement with them is conducted through diplomatic, development, commercial and security channels.

Both countries switched diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 2019. Their subsequent relations with Beijing have attracted attention in Washington and other Indo-Pacific capitals.

The Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with China in 2022, prompting concern in the United States and Australia about the possibility of a greater Chinese security presence in the South Pacific.

Beijing and Honiara have said their cooperation is intended to support domestic security and development and does not involve establishing a Chinese military base.

The United States reopened its embassy in the Solomon Islands in 2023 after a nearly three-decade absence. Washington has also expanded diplomatic and development engagement with other Pacific island governments.

The Pacific Islands Forum was founded in 1971 and is the region’s principal political organisation. Its members include Australia, New Zealand and Pacific island states and territories.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Friday had a farewell call with the outgoing Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union (EU) to India, Herve Delphin, and appreciated his contribution towards concluding the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

“Had a warm farewell call with the outgoing Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union (EU) to India, Herve Delphin. Appreciated his contributions towards concluding the India-EU FTA and further strengthening India-European Union (EU) Strategic Partnership. Wished him the very best for his future endeavours,” EAM Jaishankar stated on X.

Last month, EAM Jaishankar met the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, in Brussels as part of a high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at further strengthening the India-European Union Strategic Partnership.

The meeting came during EAM Jaishankar’s official visit to Belgium from July 14–15, where he participated in the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting alongside senior Indian ministers and officials.

Following his meeting with President Costa, EAM Jaishankar shared details on X, saying: “Pleased to call on President of the European Council Antonio Costa alongside CIM Piyush Goyal, MoS MEITY Jitin Prasada and Principal Scientific Advisor Prof Ajay K Sood. Conveyed warm wishes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Joined my colleagues to recognise the significant progress in our partnership since the landmark India - EU summit earlier this year. Valued his guidance and warm sentiments for advancing our trade and technology cooperation.”

The meeting underscored the growing momentum in India-EU ties, particularly in trade, technology, innovation, and strategic collaboration, following the landmark India-EU Summit held earlier this year.

Earlier, announcing the start of his Brussels visit, EAM Jaishankar said he held wide-ranging discussions with the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas.

In a post on X, the External Affairs Minister stated: “Started my visit to Brussels, meeting with EU HRVP Kaja Kallas. Had useful discussions on West Asia and the need to ensure peace and stability. Exchanged views on the importance of safe and unimpeded maritime commerce. Also spoke about advancing the India - EU Strategic Partnership to ensure supply chain resilience.”

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) A third special flight carrying over 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance along with a team of doctors and paramedics departed New Delhi for Kathmandu, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday as India ramped up efforts to help the neighbouring Himalayan nation following Wednesday's devastating flash floods.

“A third flight carrying 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance has departed for Kathmandu. The assistance includes portable generator sets, dignity kits, food packets and water purification tablets. An 11-member team of doctors, paramedics and a Recce team for Tunnel rescue operations is also on board. India continues to support Nepal’s ongoing relief & rescue efforts,” External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar stated on X.

Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar received 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu who arrived at the Delhi airport from Kathmandu after being rescued from the floods.

“I welcomed a group comprising 21 tourists from Tamil Nadu who were rescued from the floods that occurred in Nepal. I was deeply moved upon hearing their experiences firsthand. I express my gratitude to the Nepali Army and the government of that country for carrying out this rescue operation. I commend the efforts of the Indian Embassy in Nepal in smoothly coordinating their return to India,” EAM Jaishankar stated on X.

The 21 Indian nationals were part of the groups that had travelled for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through various travel agents.

India continues to send further assistance to Nepal, including mobilising Bailey bridges to assist in rescue and relief efforts. New Delhi has also set up a control room here in the Ministry of External Affairs which is functioning round the clock.

The MEA officials are also in touch with the state governments from where people have travelled for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Addressing a bi-weekly press briefing in New Delhi on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that 84 Indian nationals, including 63 Indian nationals who were working at the Trishuli-1 hydropower project, have been rescued so far. He further stated that 96 Indian nationals who were stranded on the Chinese side have safely crossed into Nepal by land.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Tashkent, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) India’s Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Smita Pant, on Friday said that the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Uzbekistan is very important and will set direction for the future.

“It is a very important visit. It is happening after a gap of almost 11 years. It will lay a very strong foundation of further cementing strategic partnership between both sides. The agenda that will be discussed is comprehensive, extremely multifaceted,” Ambassador Pant told IANS.

“Be it trade and investment, connectivity, bottlenecks, critical minerals, rare earth, development cooperation, cultural cooperation, defence and security matters, cooperation under UN and other multilateral fora, cooperation in health, pharmaceuticals. All of these issues will be discussed,” she emphasised.

The Indian diplomat noted that PM Modi last visited Uzbekistan in 2015 and since then there has been 'tremendous development' in many areas, including an increase of 300 per cent in trade and 700 per cent in investment.

“Indian tourists are coming here. Uzbekistan is India's third largest source of medical tourism. Indian students are pursuing medical studies here. The overall visit will cement our already strong strategic partnership. New areas will be identified, like FinTech and artificial intelligence. Space and nuclear energy cooperation will be discussed,” said Ambassador Pant.

She mentioned that discussions will also include agriculture cooperation, challenges related to climate change, and Regional and geopolitical developments.

"Defence and security will be discussed. It will be a comprehensive and multifaceted agenda. It will also set the direction for the future. It is a very important visit," stated Ambassador Pant.

She noted that there are ongoing discussions on enhancing bilateral trade, which currently stands at USD 1.3 billion.

“We can, for example, export more surgical equipment, medical devices, and machinery. We can import more from Uzbekistan in terms of natural resources and other value-added products. There is a tremendous amount of work that is happening in identifying those areas of Cooperation,” the Indian Ambassador highlighted.

She said that the bilateral trade can be increased with improved connectivity.

“We are also working in the area of digital connectivity. And finally, people-to-people connectivity, which we call connectivity of hearts. There is a very strong connection between the people of India and Uzbekistan. There is a lot of love for Indian culture here. So when you go to the market here, you will feel it,” the Ambassador highlighted.

Prime Minister Modi will be on a two-day State Visit to Uzbekistan, starting Saturday.

During the visit, which is taking place at the invitation of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with Mirziyoyev to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

This will be Prime Minister’s fourth visit to Uzbekistan and the two leaders would review cooperation in trade and investment, defence, digital connectivity, energy, education and people-to-people domains and set the agenda for the road ahead.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), they will also share perspectives on advancing the shared developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Uzbekistan-2030. Prime Minister is also expected to visit the Shastri Memorial in Tashkent and the Mahatma Gandhi Centre at the Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Vientiane, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, on Friday called on Thongsavanh Phomvihane, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Laos during his ongoing visit to Vientiane.

“Pleased to call on H.E. Thongsavan Phomvihane, Dy. Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Lao PDR. Conveyed greetings from EAM Shri S Jaishankar Ji. Reaffirmed India’s warm and friendly ties with Lao PDR and our commitment to strengthening the India-Lao PDR partnership for shared progress and prosperity as we mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. IndiaLaoPDR 70,” MoS Margherita stated on X after the meeting.

Earlier in the day, MoS Margherita addressed members of the Laos Ministry of Foreign Affairs and senior dignitaries at a joint seminar titled ‘India and Lao PDR at 70: From Development Partnership to Comprehensive Partnership', highlighting the long-standing historical ties between the two countries built on mutual trust.

He also underlined the growing cooperation between the two nations as partners in the Global South and the potential for future collaboration in the years ahead.

The seminar was organised by the Institute of Foreign Affairs of Laos and the Embassy of India in Vientiane.

“Privileged to address members of the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs and senior dignitaries at the Joint Seminar on India-Lao PDR at 70, organised by the Institute of Foreign Affairs of Lao PDR and the Embassy of India, Vientiane. Spoke on ‘India-Lao PDR at 70: From Development Partnership to Comprehensive Partnership’, underscoring our historic ties, mutual trust and deep engagement as partners in the Global South, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead,” Margherita stated on X.

During his ongoing visit, the MoS visited the iconic That Luang in Vientiane, a revered symbol of Laos’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage

He also visited the Patuxay Monument, a prominent war memorial commemorating those who fought for the country’s independence from French colonial rule.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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Oslo, Aug 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Embassy of India in Norway on Friday expressed its condolences on the passing of King Harald V, highlighting that he will be remembered for his selfless service to the country.

“The Embassy of India in Oslo expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway. His Majesty will be remembered for his selfless service to Norway and for his warmth, wisdom and commitment to his people,” the Embassy stated on X.

“Our heartfelt sympathies are with the Royal Family and the people of Norway during this time of profound sorrow. May the soul of His Majesty King Harald V rest in eternal peace,” it added.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the passing of Norway's King Harald V and also offered condolences to the royal family and the people of the country.

PM Modi recalled his meeting with King Harald V during his two-day visit to Norway in May. PM Modi was conferred with Norway's top honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, by the Norwegian King.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of His Majesty King Harald V of the Kingdom of Norway. I fondly recall meeting His Majesty during my visit to Norway earlier this year and was deeply touched by his warmth and profound sense of service to his nation. My heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Norway," PM Modi posted on X.

Norway's King Harald V passed away at the age of 89 on Friday, the Royal House of Norway said in the statement.

The King passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet at 6:35 am (local time) on Friday, the Royal House of Norway said.

Under Norway's rules of succession, 53-year-old Crown Prince Haakon immediately succeeded to the throne and became the country's new king.

–IANS

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Source: IANS

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