'Sarhad hae mahfooz hamari - Our borders are safe', says Army's Twitter handle

New Delhi, Feb 27 (UNI) Poetry always has powerful message - either in peace time or at the time of conflicts and war. 
It is the poetry that helps to distract one from the rigours of life and also can draw people into the mesmerising world of letters.
Soldiers and armed forces personnel can also get emotive and cannot stay aloof from actions and perhaps 'in actions' happening around.

It is with this spirit perhaps - Indian Army's official Twitter handle from Additional Directorate General of Public Information, Ministry of Defence, passed on a few poetic lines - "Aaj Sindhu ne Vish ugla hae, Laharon ka Youvan machla hae...(Today the river is being malicious and the waves have  moved aggressively).
These words came hours after Indian Air Force executed a well planned aerial strike destroying a large terror camp at Balakot in Pakistan in an operation seen as the first ever cross border exercise by Indian Armed Forces in last five decades.
Was it also a commentary on India's defence and foreign policy - which has emerged as more muscular and pro-active in recent times.

Taken from the master piece 'Toofano Ki Oar' (meaning 'Towards the Storms') penned Shivmangal Singh Suman -- the Tweet also had the line - "Toofanon ki aur ghuma do naavik nij patvaar' ---- Please do steer the boat towards the storm, to imply that the 'storm' be made use to built up the courage in support of righteousness and in battle against the evil.
Echoing similar sentiment, on Wednesday yet again the Twitter handle went cracking putting out illustrious poetic lines -- "Sarhad hae mahfooz hamari, apne veer jawano se (The country's border is safe and sound; and all thanks to our brave soldiers).

"....Likhte hae itihas naya nit, jo apne balidan sey (It is these valiant armed personnel who pen history on daily basis with their sacrifices)".
The underlining missive perhaps being 'peace' always carry more meaning when one is a position of strength and is capable to win.
Poems, they rightly say always re-equip us with the new imagery.

In boost to India's diplomacy: China, Russia talk on 'breeding ground' of terror

Wuzhen, (China), Feb 27 (UNI) In a major boost to India's ongoing and persistent diplomatic efforts, China and Russia on Wednesday agreed to Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's argument that terrorism challenge today required a global level cooperation.
In what seen as a 'gain and endorsement of its stance' in strategic parlance, the Joint Statement issued at the end of RIC Foreign Ministers meeting here said that "the common development and close cooperation of the three countries - Russia, India and China - is conducive for world peace and stability and promoting global growth".
"We agreed to jointly combat all forms terrorism through closer policy coordination and it is especially important to eradicate the breeding grounds of terrorism and extremism," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said summing up the discussions on terrorism.

The mention of the "breeding grounds" of terrorism is largely seen as endorsement of India's stance  specially in the backdrop of the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack and the second surgical strike carried out by Indian Air Force on Tuesday. India had carried a surgical strike in 2016 after Uri attack too.

For her part, Ms Swaraj at the end of the meeting said, "We have agreed that the UN-led Global Counter Terrorism mechanism be set up and it was also agreed that India-proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism be also finalised and adopted at the earliest".

The Joint Statement said the three foreign ministers "reiterated the importance they attached to the Russia-India-China trilateral format as a platform to foster closer dialogue and practical cooperation in identified areas".

"As countries with significant international and regional influence, the three countries stand ready to expand mutual consultations and cooperation on international and regional issues of mutual interest in the spirit of mutual respect, respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, unity, mutual understanding and trust".

"The common development and close cooperation of the three countries is conducive for world peace and stability and promoting global growth," it said.

The RIC statement comes close on the heels of the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo taking to its Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and urging that Islamabad should take meaningful action against terror groups.

"I spoke to Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi to underscore the priority of de-escalating current tensions by military action, and the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating in its soil," Mr Pompeo said in a statement in Washington.
India on Tuesday bombed and destroyed JeM's biggest training camp in Balakot in a first major cross border exercise in last five decades in which "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders were eliminated.However at the media briefing, the Chinese foreign minister took a cautious lie and said "....we believe that Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism".
He, nevertheless maintained: "China, Russia and India have reaffirmed our strong opposition to terrorism in various forms and manifestations".

Answering a question on whether there were differences between India and China, Ms Swaraj  said

"As far as the joint strategy is concerned, you just heard foreign minister Wang Yi's speech. What he said during his concluding statement, he reiterated here and he said that we would cooperate on eradicating the breeding grounds of terrorism".

"This is not only a common strategy for the three of us, but it is resolution for the three of us. Wang Yi said this during his concluding remarks and reiterated it here," Ms Swaraj emphasised.

"Terrorism is a threat to the humanity that is why not only for our three countries, we also need a global strategy. We need global cooperation," she said.

"Regarding Pulwama, I just told you both during my bilateral meeting with Wang Yi and also in the trilateral platform I strongly put forth India's perspective," she said.

In her speech at the RIC Ministers meet, External Affairs Minister assured the international community that India "does not wish to see" further escalation of the situation.

"Excellencies, this was not a military operation, no military installations were targeted. The limited objective of the preemptive strike was to act decisively against terrorist infrastructure of JeM. India doesn't wish to see further escalation of the situation. India continues to act with responsibility and restraint," she said.

She said it was only after Pakistan's 'continuing refusal' to acknowledge the role of Jaish-e-Mohammad that the Government of India decided to take preemptive action.

"....the target was selected and the largest terror camp in order to avoid civilian casualties," she said.

PAK OFFICIAL-SUMMONED

India has right to take firm action to protect national security, Pak deputy envoy told

New Delhi, Feb 27 (UNI) Pakistan was 'demarched' categorically on its act of aggression against India on Wednesday.

The government also remained firm about its resolve to take 'firm and decisive action' to protect national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity and categorically told Pakistan that instead of taking credible action against terrorists, Islamabad has only acted with 'aggression' against India.

"It was clearly conveyed that India reserves the right to take firm and decisive action to protect its national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity against any act of aggression or cross-border terrorism," a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs said after Pak Deputy High Commissioner Syed Haider Shah was summoned here.

"The Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan was summoned this afternoon by MEA to lodge a strong protest at the unprovoked act of aggression by Pakistan against India earlier today, including by violation of the Indian air space by Pakistan Air Force and targeting of Indian military posts," the statement said.

It maintained clearly that such actions were "in contrast" to the India’s non-military anti-terror pre-emptive strike at a JeM terrorist camp in Balakot on February 26.

"It is unfortunate that instead of fulfilling its international obligation and bilateral commitment to take credible action against terrorist entities and individuals operating from its soil, Pakistan has acted with aggression against India," the deputy envoy was conveyed.

India also strongly 'objected' to Pakistan’s "vulgar display of an injured personnel" of the Indian Air Force in violation of all norms of International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Convention.
"It was made clear that Pakistan would be well advised to ensure that no harm comes to the Indian defence personnel in its custody. India also expects his immediate and safe return," the statement said."Regret was expressed at continuing denial by Pakistan’s political and military leadership at the presence of terrorist infrastructure in territories under its control. A dossier was handed over to Pakistan side with specific details of JeM complicity in Pulwama terror attack," it said.

The Pak deputy High Commissioner was also told about the presence of JeM terror camps and its leadership in Pakistan.
"It was conveyed that India expects Pakistan to take immediate and verifiable action against terrorism emanating from territories under its control," the statement said.
Earlier, MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar told reporters: "India had informed about Counter-Terrorism (CT) action it took yesterday against a training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Pakistan based on credible evidence that JeM intended to launch more attacks."
He said, against India's Counter Terrorism Action, Pakistan "responded this morning" by using its Air Force to target military installations on the Indian side.
"Due to our high state of readiness and alertness, Pakistan’s attempts were foiled successfully," he said.
However, while one MiG 21 was lost, pilot of Air Force has also gone 'missing in action'.
India is 'ascertaining' the claims made by Pakistan through unofficial channels about the capture of the pilot, he said.
Meanwhile, according to media reports, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has pressed for peace
and said "all wars are miscalculated and no one knows where they lead to".
In Islamabad, Pakistan’s foreign office also summoned India’s Acting High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia earlier in the day.

'Pak is not your enemy' - Imran Khan's cricketing friend Wasim Akram tells Indians

New Delhi/Islamabad, Feb 28 After Pakistan made a failed attempt to target India's military installations and got a strong rebuttal from New Delhi, number of Pakistani celebrities and prominent citizens too have now started coming forward pushing the cause of peace.


"With my heavy heart I appeal to yours, India, Pakistan is not your enemy....," came in a tweet late Wednesday night from cricket legend Wasim Akram, who used to be hailed once as 'Sultan of Swing' deliveries. 

"Your enemy is our enemy," he tried to make a common cause with Indians and went onto write-
"How much more blood needs to be spilled before we realise we are both fighting the same battle.
We need brothers in arm if we want to beat this war on terror".

The tweet from Akram, also a dedicated lieutenant of senior cricket star and present Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, had the hashtags ' #TogetherWeWin' and ' #NoToWar'.

Author and daughter of late Pakistani politician Murtaza Bhutto, Fatima Bhutto in an Op-Ed for 'The New York Times' also made a cause for peace and urged the Pakistani government to release captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan.

"I and many other young Pakistanis have called upon our country to release the captured Indian pilot as a gesture of our commitment to peace, humanity and dignity. We have spent a lifetime at war. I do not want to see Pakistani soldiers die. I do not want to see Indian soldiers die. We cannot be a subcontinent of orphans. My generation of Pakistanis have fought for the right to speak, and we are not afraid to lend our voices to that most righteous cause: peace."

PM Modi dares Imran to fight POVERTY: Pak Hindu lawmaker Vankwani meets Sushma: Pitches for peace

Amid tension, Pak Hindu lawmaker Vankwani meets Sushma: Pitches for peace

New Delhi, Feb 23 Is back channel diplomacy already on between India and Pakistan amid these tensed moments?
In a dramatic development after the US President Donald Trump described the face-off between the two South Asian neighbours as “very, very bad” and stated that the hostilities should end, a Pakistani Hindu lawmaker from the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party Ramesh Kumar Vankwani met Indian leaders including foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Minister of State for External Affairs Gen V K Singh.
In fact posting a snap of his meeting with Ms Swaraj, Mr Vankwani also tweeted: "Nice meeting with @Sushma Swaraj. Peace is in the best interest of people of both countries, Pakistan and India".

Mr Vankwani was here as part of a large international visiting team of foreign nationals who were on a day-long trip to Prayagraj Kumbh on Friday.

Vankwani's Twitter profile also describes him as a Patron-in-chief of Pakistan Hindu Council.
In fact, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj among others met the visiting foreign nationals from as many as 182 countries. There was no confirmation till evening on whether Mr Vankwani met Prime Minister Modi separately.
A resident of Karachi Mr Vankwani had a brief interaction with MoS External Affairs V K Singh during the lunch break.

When asked to comment on the present impasse in ties between India and Pakistan, the visiting lawmaker (member of the National Assembly of Pakistan) said - "my government in Pakistan does not want any problem....and I can speak to Indian leaders and Prime Minister Narendra Modi if there are problems between the two countries".

Indian officials declined to divulge details about the visiting MP, who is also the chairman of Pak National Assembly Standing Committee on Statistics.
One source in the ICCR, which initiated this marathon Kumbh visit for representatives from 182 countries, merely said, "Mr Vankwani is from Sindh area, this much I know".

Another source said - "He is here in individual capacity, we cannot say Pakistan government has nominated him. Moreover, the visit was essentially aimed at Kumbh".  

The dramatic visit of the Pakistani politician - without oft repeated any row over Visas and in utter secrecy and turning it as a non-event - took place on a day when Prime Minister Modi made a sort of a climb down from the hawkish stance and urged his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan to prove himself as true 'Pathan' by taking steps to fight poverty and illiteracy in the two countries.

“Pakistan’s prime minister told me (last year) ‘I am the son of a Pathan. I do what I say.’ It is time to test his words," Mr Modi said at a rally at Tonk in Rajasthan.
Recalling his first telephonic talk with Mr Khan after latter's poll victory in 2018, Mr Modi said - ''I had told him you are from the world of sports... Come, let India and Pakistan get their act together and fight poverty and illiteracy.

''In response, he had told me that he (Imran) is a son of a Pathan and he will always speak the truth and also do things in the right manner.... Thus time has come for him to prove his own words,'' the Prime Minister said.

All these also happened on a day when the apex body of Islamic nations invited India - for the the first time in its 50 years history - to attend the plenary session of OIC in Abu Dhabi on March 1.

According to observers, the growing international support to the Modi government including strong statement from UNSC and FATF naming JeM for Pulwama attack and the OIC invite are only making things paradoxical and could stall government's hot pursuit against Pakistan.

"The UNSC resolution and anti-money laundering body FATF also taking Pak-based groups by name is a clear recognition of India's grievance and anguish against Pakistan. Thus the onus seems to be coming on the Indian side now and it will not be advisable to give away the high moral ground," a source said.

Interacting with foreign nationals who visited Kumbh and that supposedly also included the Pak lawmaker from Imran Khan's ruling party, Prime Minister Modi said - "I request you all that when you go back to your country, you spread the word about India's culture and heritage and your own positive experience in India".

Amid high-volage tension, PM dares Imran to prove his words on fight against poverty

Tonk, Rajasthan, Feb 23 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday dared his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan to stick to his own words as a 'Pathan' and dedicate all efforts to fight poverty and illiteracy in the two countries.

''Aaj Pakistan ke pradhan mantri ke shabdoan ko kasauti pe kasne ki jarurat hai...(Time has come for him to prove his own words) Let me see whether he can prove to be truthful to his own words,'' the Prime Minister said addressing a rally here.

Recalling his first telephone talk with Mr Khan after his poll victory in 2018 and said ''I had told him you are from the world of sports... Come let India and Pakistan get their act together and fight poverty and illiteracy.''In response, he had told me that he (Imran) is a son of a Pathan and he will always speak the truth and also do things in the right manner.... Thus time has come for him to prove his own words,'' the Prime Minister said amid escalated tension between two neighbours in the wake of Pulwama attack.

Modi Govt achieves another 'first' in diplomacy: OIC invites Sushma

New Delhi, Feb 23 India on Saturday accepted the invitation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to attend the 46th session of council of foreign ministers of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on March 1 and 2 in Abu Dhabi.

"We see this invitation as the desire of the enlightened leadership of the UAE to go beyond our rapidly growing close bilateral ties and forge a true multifaceted partnership at the multilateral and international level," an MEA statement said here.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will be attending the meet as a 'guest of honour', it confirmed.
Notably, the UAE has sought to record its recognition and appreciation of India in the contemporary setting and said Ms Swaraj's presence at the OIC meet will mark presence of "the friendly Republic of India with all its international political weight and diverse cultural heritage, and an important Islamic component, as a guest of honor".
"We see this invitation as a milestone in our comprehensive strategic partnership with the UAE. We also see this invitation as a welcome recognition of the presence of 185 million Muslims in India and of their contribution to its pluralistic ethos, and of India’s contribution to the Islamic world,"
the MEA statement said.

Sources said it is for the first time, the coveted grouping of Islamic nations have invited India to be an 'observer' for this year's session."India is, therefore, happy to accept the invitation to attend the Inaugural Plenary of the OIC meeting and we thank the leadership of the UAE for their invitation," the statement said.This gesture from the OIC which more often in the past has taken an indifferent approach to India only reflects "India's growing diplomatic influence".Ms Swaraj has been invited by UAE foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to be the guest of honour and address the inaugural session, an MEA statement said here on Saturday.The 46th OIC session this year will be held under the theme: "Fifty years of Islamic cooperation: the road map for prosperity and development", coinciding with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the organisation.

Diplomatic sources said India-UAE bilateral relations have received impetus from time-to-time with exchange of high-level visits from both sides.

"The historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to UAE in August 2015 marked the beginning of a new and comprehensive and strategic partnership. In the Joint Statement issued after the visit, both leaders agreed to work together not only to consolidate achievements in the existing domains but also to explore newer areas of cooperation," the source said.
UAE Foreign Minister will open the OIC meeting on March 1 (next Friday) in the presence of Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation  Dr Yousef Al-Othaimeen.
Representatives from 56 member states and five observer states are expected to attend the two-day meet.

OIC invite, global backing may halt Modi's hot pursuit policies against Pakistan

New Delhi/Tonk, Feb 23 (UNI) Having mustered global support post-Pulwama and a strongly worded statement against Pakistan from the powerful organ of the United Nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended an olive branch to Imran Khan to stick to his own words as a 'Pathan' and take steps to fight poverty and illiteracy in the two countries.

''Aaj Pakistan ke pradhan mantri ke shabdoan ko kasauti pe kasne ki jarurat hai...(Time has come for him to prove his own words) Let me see whether he can prove to be truthful to his own words,'' the Prime Minister said addressing a rally at Tonk in western state of Rajasthan.

Recalling his first telephone talk with Mr Khan after his poll victory in 2018, Mr Modi said - ''I had told him you are from the world of sports... Come let India and Pakistan get their act together and fight poverty and illiteracy.

''In response, he had told me that he (Imran) is a son of a Pathan and he will always speak the truth and also do things in the right manner.... Thus time has come for him to prove his own words,'' the Prime Minister said amid escalated tension between two neighbours in the wake of Pulwama attack.

However, in his speech, the Prime Minister asserted that everything will be done to 'crush terrorism'.

A sort of moderate climbdown and mixed message in Prime Minister's speech comes amid immense support from the international community in favour of India even as the US President Donald Trump described the current situation between India and Pakistan as “very, very bad”.

"A very dangerous situation. We would like to see it hostilities stop. A lot of people were just killed. We want to see it just stop. We are very much involved in that process," President Trump had said interacting with media at the Oval Office on Friday hinting that Washington will not like any major military fight in the South Asian theatre.

In yet another testimony to India's growing influence diplomatically, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has been invited at the 46th session of council of foreign ministers of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on March 1 and 2.

"First time as Guest of Honour," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted and also confirming about India's acceptance of the unprecedented invite.

Hailing India's emergence in the comity of nations in the contemporary setting, a UAE statement also said: "The friendly country of India has been named as the guest of honour (at the 46th OIC session) in view of its great global political stature as well as its time-honoured and deeply rooted cultural and historical legacy, and its important Islamic component".

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), in a resolution on Thursday, condemned the terror act at Pulwama and also named Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) for the first time.

In fact, welcoming the UNSC statement, India’s permanent representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the UNSC resolution calling it - “A statement with many firsts takes more time than expected. In complex diplomatic situations, however, it is better to be late than never".

France and the United States have backed India's stance solidly for about a week aftermath the Pulwama attack and despite initial skirmishes raised by China, all the 15 permanent and non-permanent members finally adopted the resolution 'unanimously' that condemned in the “strongest terms” the “heinous and cowardly” attack.

Indian government sources also said it contains specific 'language' that India had proposed via partner countries including on the naming of JeM.

India's stand that perpetrators should be brought to justice was also accepted even as India's formidable competitors and rivals in the region, China and Pakistan tried to do everything to either 'dilute' the content or even total avoidance of a statement altogether.

However, observers of political and strategic affairs have said there is a surcharged and hawkish atmosphere in the country with a section of BJP leaders and workers also expecting a kind of do or die stance against Pakistan.

For its part, the Modi government has taken a number of diplomatic steps and also tightened the noose on Islamabad, commercially withdrawing MFN status and also enhanced the import duties on Pakistani goods to 200 per cent.

Taking these further, Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that even water flowing into Pakistan will be 'diverted'

"Expectations are made from a leader like PM Modi - who can deliver," BJP MP Maheish Giri said.

A  virtual panic driven Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has in the meantime written a letter to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) president, Francisco Antonio Cortorreal and drew attention to the 'deteriorating security situation' in the region.  

"The situation poses a threat to international peace and security.....," he wrote urging the world body to "defuse the current tensions".

On the home front, the Modi government, has, however pursued hot pursuits policy in Jammu and Kashmir and could escalate these actions further against separatist leaders.

While security and other government facilities given to them have been withdrawn, JKLF chairman Yasin Malik was on Friday late night detained.  

According to observers, the growing international support to the government is actually paradoxical in a manner.

"The UNSC resolution and anti-money laundering body FATF also taking Pak-based groups by name is a clear recognition of India's grievance and anguish against Pakistan. Thus the onus seems to be coming on the Indian side now and it will not be advisable to give away the high moral ground New Delhi's diplomacy has achieved," a source said.

PM Modi urges foreign nationals of 182 nations to work as India's cultural envoys

New Delhi, Feb 23 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged representatives and nationals of as many as 182 countries including one Sindh-based Pakistani citizen to work as India's cultural ambassadors and spread the word about India's culture and heritage.




"I request you all that when you go back to your country, you spread the word about India's culture and heritage and your own positive experience in India," Mr Modi said in an interaction with delegates from around the globe who were on a day long trip to Prayagraj Kumbh to see the "largest gathering of humanity". 


He said that until one actually visits the Kumbh Mela, one cannot appreciate completely, what a great heritage it is. He said that this tradition has continued uninterrupted for thousands of years.
He said the Kumbh is as much about social reform as it is about spirituality.


He said that the Kumbh has been a forum for discussion among spiritual leaders and social reformers, to chart a roadmap for the future, and monitor progress.
The Prime Minister said that the effort is now to blend "modernity and technology, with faith, spirituality, and cultural consciousness, at the Kumbh Mela".


External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Minister of State for External Affairs and President of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Vinay Sahasrabuddhe were present on the occasion.


"It is a great occasion when we are seeing the cultural amalgamation. People from across the globe following different religions and social ethos are here to know more about Indian culture and tradition. All these individuals and citizens of countries like Myanmar, Poland, Mali and Somalia during last two days are taking keen interest in the affairs of India," Mr Sahasrabuddhe told UNI.


The visiting delegation also included one Pakistani citizen from Sindh region, an ICCR source said.


He also said all these individuals will play the role "cultural ambassadors" for India and whenever there is any "wrong perception" about India anywhere, it is they who will be highlighting "India's pluralism and the inner faith in democratic traditions".



A large number of foreign delegates visited the famous Kumbh mela at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on Friday.
At the initiatives of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), delegates from around the globe were on a day long trip to Prayagraj Kumbh to see the 'largest gathering of humanity'.

"This kind of visit is happening for the first time in the history of the Kumbh," Mr Sahasrabuddhe said.

"I will a new chapter has been written in the history of Kumbha today. Prime Minister has taken a giant step to set the agenda for G-All.....something extra ordinary in a world which was more committed with a group of 20 nations or seven or five nations. All were excited by lifetime experience," he said.

Fight is for Kashmir not against Kashmiris: PM

Tonk, Rajasthan, Feb 23 (UNI) In the wake of anxiety expressed by National Conference and PDP that Kashmiri students and people in general require adequate security in the rest of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that the anti-terror fight post Pulwama fight is in effect a fight for the northern state and not against Kashmiris.
''Our fight is against terrorism, against enemies of humanity. Hamari ladai Kashmir ke liye hai, Kashmir ke khilaaf nahi hai, Kashmiriyon ke khilaaf nahi hai,(This fight is never against the people of Kashmir),'' he said at a rally here.
''We are going to move ahead with a strong resolution as 130 crore people are supporting us on this,'' he said, adding it will be erroneous to bring the division of us-and-them syndrome between the People of India and the Kashmiri Muslims, and said there have been occasions when the local Muslims have saved Hindus and also given them protection during Amarnath yatra.
The Prime Minister took strong exception that in some states, Kashmiri students were targetted aftermath Pulwama attack.

''Is desh mein aisa hona nahi chahiye (such attacks should not happen in this country),'' the Prime Minister categorically said.

The remarks come at the backdrop of former J & K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah meeting Home Minister Rajnath Singh and pressing for security of Kashmiri students in states like Uttarakhand. 
State Governor Satya Pal Malik had last week directed the police to take strict action against those indulging in any type of violence, arson or rumour mongering in Jammu regon.
The Union Home ministry on Friday has directed all Chief Secretaries in all states to take adequate measures to ensure security of Kashmiri citizens in their respective states.
''Kashmiris have suffered the most due to terrorism,'' the Prime Minister said and maintained the country needs to support them in their stand.

In the wake of reports of violence against the Kashmiri people aftermath Pulwama attack on February 14, he said the issue is not what happened to Kashmiri children in any corner of the country, but the fact is that Kashimiri youth is tired of terrorism.

Mr Modi said India has won all wars with India in the past and ''the trend will continue''.

People are full of anger, he said, adding that ''we are not going to sit quiet, we know how to crush terror.''

Mr Modi dared his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan to stick to his own words as a 'Pathan' and dedicate all efforts to fight poverty and illiteracy in the two countries.
''Aaj Pakistan ke pradhan mantri ke shabdoan ko kasauti pe kasne ki jarurat hai...(Time has come for him to prove his own words) Let me see whether he can prove to be truthful to his own words,'' the Prime Minister said.

Recalling his first telephone talk with Mr Khan after his poll victory in 2018 and said ''I had told him you are from the world of sports... Come let India and Pakistan get their act together and fight poverty and illiteracy.
''In response, he had told me that he (Imran) is a son of a Pathan and he will always speak the truth and also do things in the right manner.... Thus time has come for him to prove his own words,'' the Prime Minister said amid escalated tension between two neighbours in the wake of Pulwama attack.

Pak Foreign Minister writes to UNSC Prez, seeks UN help to 'defuse' Indo-Pak tension

New Delhi/Islamabad, Feb 23 (UNI) Virtually pressing a panic button Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has written a letter to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) president, Francisco Antonio Cortorreal and drew attention to the 'deteriorating security situation' in the region resulting from the Indian threats of use of  'force against Pakistan'.

"The situation poses a threat to international peace and security....It is clear that India is making the attempt to present its fallacious assumptions as established facts, seek to cover up its own operational and policy failures, and shift the blame to Pakistan," Mr Qureshi said in his letter - a soft of copy of which has been made available in Delhi.

Pakistan Foreign Minister further said that he has already 'apprised' the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres of the serious situation and underlined that the United Nations "must step into defuse the current tensions".

"It is with a sense of urgency that I draw your attention to the deteriorating security situation in our region resulting from Indian belligerence and threats of use of force against Pakistan," he wrote.

Mr Qureshi further said - "Simultaneously, for domestic political reasons, India has deliberately ratcheted up hostile rhetoric against Pakistan and created a tense environment".

He also accused that Prime Minister Narendra Modi in several public statements has threatened a “befitting response".

"Separately, senior members of the Indian Government are threatening to use water as a weapon. The long-standing legal arrangements agreed under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) are thus being imperiled," he wrote.

ends

'Good beginning is half the battle' - says PM on a day UNSC condemns Pak on terror

Seoul, Feb 22 (UNI) "Shichagi Bhanida ......", - Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Friday referring to a Korean saying meaning -- "A good beginning is half the battle''.This came on a day when the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution condemning the Pulwama attack and urging Pakistan to take convincing steps to intensify its actions against terror groups.

The top UN body has urged all states, in accordance with their obligations under international law and Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Government of India and all other relevant authorities in fight against terror especially in the context of Pulwama attack.

Addressing an impressive gathering after receiving the prestigious Seoul Peace Prize here, the Prime Minister said "time has come" for all those who believe in humanity to join hands to completely eradicate terrorist networks and their financing, supply channels, and to counter terrorist ideology and propaganda.


"Only by doing so can we replace hate with harmony; destruction with development and transform the landscape of violence and vendetta into a post-card for peace," he said.

Earlier in a joint media briefing with the South Koren President Moon Jae-in, the Prime Minister said "Ab samay aa gaya hae ki vaishwik samuday....batton se agey barkar, is samasya ke virodh mein ek jut hokar karwa-wahi karey (Now the time has come for the global community to go beyond mere talks and stay united and take concrete actions against terror menace)".

Prime Minister's resolute remarks hours came after the UN Security Council named JeM, which claimed responsibility for February 14 terror attack, and underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice.

India’s permanent representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin tweeted to say that the UNSC statement had "many firsts takes more time than expected".

"In complex diplomatic situations, however, it is better to be late than never,” Akbaruddin wrote.

Sources said the UNSC resolution was adopted despite Pakistan lobbying with UNSC top brass and initial skirmishes raised by China.

Sources also said India had pushed for adoption of its 'stand and language' in the resolution through 'partner countries' including on the naming of Jaish-e-Mohammad and "to bring perpetrators to justice".
France has played a key role in pushing the resolution, sources said and so did countries like the US.

In his speech after receiving the award, Prime Minister Modi also referred to the "progress over the past year towards peace on the Korean peninsula"

"President Moon deserves all the praise for the role he has played in overcoming the legacy of mutual distrust and suspicion between North Korea and the international community, and bringing them to the discussion table," he said adding this is "no small achievement".


"I state again my Government's strong support to the ongoing dialogue process between the two Koreas and between the US and North Korea," Mr Modi said.

"I am deeply honoured to be awarded the Prize....the award belongs to the people of India," Mr Modi said.

The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 and the awardees receives a diploma, a plaque and honorarium of USD 200,000."May there be peace everywhere......may there be eternal peace," Mr Modi said on the occasion quoting Sanskrit mantras.
The Prime Minister said the entire monetary prize amount would be dedicated to the Namami Gange project - committed to clean Ganga.

Setback to Imran regime: FATF slams Pak for 'limited progress' on terror financing

Paris, Feb 22 (UNI) In yet another set back to Pakistan and its beleaguered Imran Khan-led regime vis-a-vis its flip flip on terror financing, the anti-money global body Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Friday said it will continue to keep Islamabad in the 'grey list'.

This move is also seen as a minor win for India's efforts as post-Pulwama, Indian agencies submitted dossiers to the FATF urging it that Pakistan should not given any relief.

The FATF held its plenary sitting from February 17 and the deliberations completed on Friday.


In a statement, the FATF said: "Due to the limited progress on action plan item due in January 2019, the FATF urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its action plan, particularly those with timeliness of May 2019". The international financial watchdog in effect warned Pakistan to stick to the deadlines and not miss them again - as they have this time.


The FATF list matters vis-a-vis terror funding will be reviewed again in June and October later this year. Sources say India is keen to push for inclusion of Pakistan in the FATF 'black list' like Iran and North Korea.


The blacklisting of Pakistan could only add to the economic woes for the cash-strapped nation which is faced with balance of payment crisis.
Indian government sources say the FATF can 'blacklist' Pakistan if convinced of its role in the Pulwama attack and its complicity in terror funding.
Actions from FATF may lead to "downgrading" of Pakistan by global lenders such as IMF, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and European Union.
In a desperate move on Thursday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday 'reinstated' ban on Hafeez Saeed-led Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JuD).

The JuD is a front organisation of the Lashkar-e-Toiba terror group which had carried out the 2008 Mumbai terror attack in which 166 people were killed.

The Pakistan government has also decided to ban JuD’s charity wing Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF).

India owes historic statement 'with many firsts' UNSC resolution to US and France

New Delhi/United Nations, Feb 22 (UNI) Diplomatically, things could not be going better for the Modi government.

Over five months after India and the US held their first '2 Plus 2 Dialogue', the American administration stood by India steadfastly post-Pulwama attack and finally ensured a strong UNSC negation against Pakistan.


The UN Security Council comprising 15 permanent and non-permanent members on Thursday finally adopted the resolution 'unanimously' that condemned in the “strongest terms” the “heinous and cowardly” terror attack and also named Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in the statement.
"These can be seen as diplomatic win," sources said and the comments were readily endorsed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in a television interview as well.

"This country has the confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deliver...," Mr Singh said.
Besides, P-5, other nations in 15-member powerful organ of UN include - Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, Kuwait, Peru, Poland,  South Africa, Indonesia, Dominican Republic,  Belgium and Germany.

The US, UK, France, Russia and China are permanent members with veto power.

The UN Security Council statement making strong reference to terrorism and even naming Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad for February 14 dastardly act was 'forcefully and tactfully' delayed by China while Pakistan worked overtime to avoid a strong resolution completely.

"Now that the resolution was adopted, we can say it was adopted unanimously by the UNSC including both permanent and non permanent members and also China. It contains specific language that India had proposed via partner countries including on the naming of JeM," an informed source said here.

India's stand that perpetrators should be brought to justice was also accepted even as India's formidable competitors and rivals in region China and Pakistan tried to do everything to either 'dilute' the content or even total avoidance of a statement altogether.

What is seen as a matter of immense satisfaction for Indian side is that the condemnation by the powerful organ of the world body came shortly after Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Maleeha Lodhi had met top brass in the UN including Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Lodhi has also met the UN Security Council president Anatolio Ndong Mba of Equatorial Guinea.

Some UNSC members including the US wanted a statement by February 15-16, but Chinese insisted that it should be taken up only by February 18.

But in all these - India's partners France and the US stood by New Delhi.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had urged Pakistan - after the Pulwama attack - to act firmly against the terror groups. France has played a key role in pushing the resolution.

In fact, the 'determined' bid from French government was reflected in true spirit of remarks made by the France envoy to India. "By coordinating our diplomatic efforts, France and India show once again unity against terrorism," Ambassador Alexandre Ziegler had tweeted on February 19.

For the part of the US, no less than The White House issued a strong statement. NSA John Bolton also spoke to his Indian counterpart  Ajit Doval and even President Donald Trump described the attack as 'horrible'.

India’s permanent representative to the UN Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the UNSC resolution calling it -“A statement with many firsts takes more time than expected. In complex diplomatic situations, however, it is better to be late than never".

Sources said France will initiate yet another move at the UN and that will be to put Masood Azhar on the terrorist list.

Among the big fishes, UNSC permanent member  Russia is backing India and also the US and United Kingdom.

Sources recall that supported by the UK and France, the Americans had moved a proposal at the UN’s Sanctions Committee 1267 in 2017 to ban Azhar. However, it was blocked by China.


India and Saudi Arabia plan to play regional maritime 'security providers'


New Delhi, Feb 22 (UNI) India and Saudi Arabia are set to take forward their diplomatic engagements and strategic partnership to a much higher level and will be keen to play the role of "next security providers" in the maritime front as well in the region.

After the "very significant and successful round" of state visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Indian side is enthusiastic to see that the Prince himself has taken a keen interest in boosting the maritime and defence ties.

"India is interested in that area and on maritime security. Saudis too have same type of apprehensions and concerns on maritime security," a source said here.
In this context, the Saudi Crown Prince and his delegation told the Indian side on February 20 meet that it will be a 'good thing' if India and Saudi Arabia come together and bring other countries in the region together.
"In fact....we will be next security providers along with others in the region," the source maintained.
Sources said the concept for such cooperation and coordination was mooted by no less than the Saudi Crown Prince at the 'restricted' level bilateral talks between him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This concept will be taken forward as India too has 'strong and deep interest' in the region. "Efforts will be made also to bring other countries in the region together," the source said.

Sources have said that Saudi Crown Prince's visit was "extremely important and successful visit" and for the first time reflected Saudi regime's agreement that essentially 'Kashmir is a bilateral issue' between India and Pakistan.

"The Joint Statement issued at the end of the visit said there is need for creation of conditions for 'resumption' of the comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan. This is exactly India has been stating.....that means what -- the renunciation of terror (by Pakistan)," a source in the know of things said here.

"That is a very clear position we have had ......there was no ambiguity on the part of Saudis too and their understanding of Kashmir issue, that there is also clear recognition that it is essentially a bilateral issue,"  sources said.
The Indian foreign policy engine room is also enthusiastic to note that the Joint Statement makes mention of Pakistan.

This came more than a decade after.  "The last time that Pakistan was mentioned so clearly in an India-Saudi joint statement was in 2006. It was also a goody-goody stuff when both sides had “welcomed" the dialogue process between India (under Manmohan Singh) and the then Pakistan government under Gen Pervez Musharraf".

Even as Saudi Crown Prince made no reference to Pakistan or even Pulwama attack in his media briefing in presence of PM Modi in Delhi, the Joint Statement was categorical -  "His Royal Highness appreciated consistent efforts made by Prime Minister Modi since May 2014 including Prime Minister’s personal initiatives to have friendly relations with Pakistan".
In more ways than one, India sees much importance Saudi side has sought to attach to its relation with India.
Firstly, a source said, even if Saudis were toying with the idea to 'mediate' for peace between India and Pakistan, they gave up once they felt the 'anguish' among Indian delegates on the Pulwama attack.

At the three-level talks held between two sides on Wednesday - one on one between PM Modi and the Saudi Crown Prince, in the restricted bilateral between two sides and later at the delegation level talks, it was emphasised that the Saudi side does not want to involve in conflicts and tension between India and Pakistan  "without being invited" by New Delhi and Islamabad.

Sources also said that traditionally India's relations with Saudi Arabia had 'revolved around trade,oil, energy Indian expatriate working in the region - but over the decades, this has evolved. "It has especially evolved in last three years especially on the eve of and after PM Modi's visit in 2016".
Moreover, showing sensitivities to Indian sentiment, Saudi Crown Prince had 'gone back' to Saudi Arabia and avoided coming to India direct from Islamabad.

This also underlines that from the Saudi perspective its relations with India and Pakistan are independent of each other.

This is also a typical case of endorsement to Indian views. In fact, a day ahead of Saudi Crown Prince's visit o India, Indian officials on Monday asserted that notwithstanding the fact that crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has made a visit to Islamabad just on the eve of his trip to India, the context of Pakistan is "irrelevant" to India Saudi Arabia relations.

My hero of the day or the week !! - LT. GEN KJS DHILLON

"You pick up gun, and you are dead ....... unless you surrender"

There is no accent quite like the Punjabi accent and there is no Punjabi accent quite like of a Military officer. The army commander Lt Gen KJS Dhillon asserted today at media conference- First such detailed breifing- after Pulwama attack that no matter how much whoever crosses over to the Indian Territory with ill intention Indian army is ever ready to give them a befitting fight.
He said "Kitne Ghazib aye Gaye .....
Lt Gen Dhillon more than once siad he will take the opportunity to appeal all the mothers in Jammu and Kashmir to convince their sons to stay away from terrorism.

"Our message is clear, you pick up a gun and don't surrender,you will be eliminated" 

Lt General Dhillon took over on Feb 9, 2019 from Lt Gen AK Bhatt who is shifting to New Delhi as Military Secretary at Army Headquarters, Tribune India reported.“The officer has an incisive understanding of J&K, having served here for five tenures since 1988 with notable being sector commander of Rashtriya Rifles and Brigadier General Staff of the Chinar Corps,” the Army said.

A graduate from Defence Service Staff College, Wellington, and National Defence College, Delhi, Lt General Dhillon is credited with important appointments at the Army Headquarters and instructional appointments at Infantry School, Mhow, and Indian Army training team abroad.

Imran's 'proof' rhetoric a 'lame excuse', Pak PM did not condemn Pulwama: India

Even as Imran Khan 'offered' support to India to probe Pulwama attack and claimed that his government takes 'action if evidence" is provided, India on Tuesday outright rejected his radio broadcast and pointed out that Pakistan Prime Minister failed to even condemn the heinous act.

"We are not surprised that the Prime Minister of Pakistan refuses to acknowledge the attack on our security forces in Pulwama as an act of terrorism. Prime Minister of Pakistan has neither chosen to condemn this heinous act nor condoled with the bereaved families," an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs here said.


Throwing a virtual challenge to authorities in Pakistan - whom India has sought to 'isolate' in the comity of nations aftermath Pulwama attack - the MEA statement said Imran Khan regime should take action against Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar.


"It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs here said.


Earlier in a radio broadcast and breaking his five-day long silence, Mr Khan said - "Pakistan offers full support for any investigation in Pulwama. I guarantee action on this".

He had also said - "It is in our interest that nobody from our soil spreads violence. I want to tell Indian government that we will take action if evidence is found against anyone from Pakistan".


Not surprisingly in its hard hitting statement, the MEA said "Disclaiming any link between the terrorist attack and Pakistan is an oft-repeated excuse by Pakistan. The Pakistani Prime Minister has ignored claims made by the Jaish-e-Mohammad, as well as by the terrorist, who perpetrated this heinous crime".


"Pakistan Prime Minister has offered to investigate the matter if India provides proof. This is a lame excuse. In the horrific attack in Mumbai on 26/11, proof was provided to Pakistan. Despite this, the case has not progressed for the last more than 10 years. Likewise, on the terror attack on Pathankot airbase, there has been no progress. Promises of "guaranteed action” ring hollow given the track record of Pakistan," the statement said.

Ridiculing Khan's repeated reference to 'Naya Pakistan' in as many words, the statement said - "In this "Naya Pakistan”, Ministers of the current Government publicly share platforms with terrorists like Hafeez Saeed who have been proscribed by the United Nations".
In yet another clear snub, the statement said - "Pakistan claims to be the greatest victim of terrorism. This is far from truth. The international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the nerve center of terrorism".

The MEA statement said - "Promises of "guaranteed action” ring hollow given the track record of Pakistan".

If Imran Khan is serious on terror, Pak must take action against JeM and Azhar: India

New Delhi, Feb 19 (UNI) Stepping up attack against Pakistan on its double standard on terrorism, India on Tuesday described its western neighbour as "the nerve center of terrorism" and said if Prime Minister Imran Khan was serious about crushing the menace, his government should take action against Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar.
"It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs here said.
The statement said - "Disclaiming any link between the terrorist attack and Pakistan is an oft-repeated excuse by Pakistan. The Pakistani Prime Minister has ignored claims made by the Jaish-e-Mohammad, as well as by the terrorist, who perpetrated this heinous crime".

Ridiculing Pakistan Prime Minister's repeated reference to 'Naya Pakistan' trying to denote changes, his regime has supposedly brought in last few months, the statement said - "In this "Naya Pakistan”, Ministers of the current Government publicly share platforms with terrorists like Hafeez Saeed who have been proscribed by the United Nations".

The statement said - "Pakistan claims to be the greatest victim of terrorism. This is far from truth. The international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the nerve center of terrorism".
It also referred to the Pakistani side demanding 'proof' and dismissed the fresh argument as a "lame excuse" and pointed out that - "In the horrific attack in Mumbai on 26/11, proof was provided to Pakistan. Despite this, the case has not progressed for the last more than 10 years. Likewise, on the terror attack on Pathankot airbase, there has been no progress".
The statement also said - "Promises of "guaranteed action” ring hollow given the track record of Pakistan".

"Pakistan’s Prime Minister has called for dialogue and expressed his readiness to talk about terrorism. India has repeatedly stated that it is ready to engage in a comprehensive bilateral dialogue in an atmosphere free from terror and violence," the statement said.

Growing India-Saudi ties can make Pakistan feel 'insecure': Official

New Delhi, Feb 19 (UNI) India has over the years built up a robust and very strong India-Saudi Arabia relation which is independent of any third party and the growing New Delhi-Riyadh axis has the potential to make Pakistan feel 'insecure'.

"If the growing ties between Saudi Arabia-Pakistan and Saudi Arabia-India are to be taken into account, let me say that it is Pakistan which is feeling a bit insecure and not us," a senior official has said here.

"This India-Saudi relationship has radically transformed in last few years," the official said, adding, "In fact, if someone has to be worried, it is Pakistan".

The bureaucrat in the know of things vis-a-vis India-Saudi Arabia relations and the importance attached by both sides to it further said - "Last four-five years, we have seen a remarkable transformation and that is something that has genuinely happened and particularly after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016".
Commenting on the fact that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud made a visit to Islamabad on Sunday and even told Pakistani leadership that he would be happy to be a 'Pak envoy' in Saudi Arabia, the official tried to point out the obvious facts about ground zero situation and economic reality.

"When they invest in India, they are going to invest on a very robust economy which is growing over 7 per cent and that they are not here to bail out India," he said.

"We have developed a strong independent strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia and it is independent of Pakistan," he said.

As a testimony of India-Saudi better understanding, the bureaucrat pointed out at the 2016 Joint Statement issued at Riyadh during Mr Modi's visit in 2016 that said, ''The menace of extremism and terrorism threatens all nations and societies and the two sides reject totally any attempt to link this universal phenomenon to any particular race, religion or culture.''


"They called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists operating and perpetrating terrorism from their territories against other states; and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice".


Sources also said that even as the Pulwama terror attack is being debated and discussed now, the visit of Saudi Crown Prince to India was planned much before February 14 attack.

The official pointed out that the reflection of growing ties must be also appreciated from the fact as over last few years, many people wanted by Indian agencies have been 'extradited'.

"If you look at defence cooperation, there is a greater interest in Saudi side to engage with us and thus we are also looking at a joint Naval exercise," he said.

India is, in fact, one of the eighth key strategic partners of Saudi Arabia and these include - China, Japan, Korea, France, Germany, the UK and the US.

"This list was beyond the countries they (Saudis) were traditionally engaged and the decision to include these eight countries as their strategic partners was taken suo motu by Saudi leadership," he said.

"This itself is a signal given by Saudi Arabia," the official added.

"The first state visit of Saudi Arabian Crown Prince will take the relations only to a higher level," the source said.

India is also keen to help Saudi Arabia in sectors like food security.

Terror to figure prominently in India-Saudi Jt. Statement, it 'was flagged' off in 2016
New Delhi, Feb 19 (UNI) In endorsement to India's stance on cross border terrorism and as a testimony of India-Saudi Arabia friendship the issue of terrorism will be highlighted yet again at the bilateral talks between two sides when Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud interacts with the Indian delegation led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"If you see 2016 Joint Statement issued in April 2016 during Mr Modi's visit, it is very much there.

There was a clear phrase of the terrorists 'operating and perpetrating terrorism from their territories against other states' ......so there is no reason to feel otherwise," a source said.


The Crown Prince who arrived in Islamabad on Sunday at the start of his Asia tour - that includes first State Visit to India has returned to Saudi Arabia on Monday.
Apparently, Indian diplomats had 'reservations' over his coming to India from Islamabad.
Now, according to sources, Crown Prince will arrive here on late evening Tuesday and will have important rounds of talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday.
In 2016, the Joint Statement had - "....called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists operating and perpetrating terrorism from their territories against other states; and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice".
Indian side believe unlike past, there is a "shift" in Saudi perception about the issue of terrorism.
In fact, New Delhi has reasons to believe that Saudi Arabia is no more taking the 'Pakistan's narrative' on the issue Kashmir and cross border terrorism in the spirit as they used to do in the past.
During the talks, India will raise the issue of Pakistan's support to terror groups, sources said.
"Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner in our extended neighbourhood. The Riyadh Declaration of 2010 had forged a Strategic Partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. Relations between India and Saudi Arabia are rooted in strong historical and civilisational links," Secretary, Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Affairs T S Tirumurti said.
"Our relations received a huge boost during the visit of Prime Minister Modi in April 2016. Since then, there has been an intensification of our engagement".
He also said the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned and denounced the terrorist attack on Indian security forces in Pulwama on February 14.


"We appreciate Kingdom’s cooperation in security and counter terrorism areas over the years. During the visit of PM Modi to Saudi Arabia in 2016, an MoU on cooperation in exchange of intelligence related to money laundering and terrorism financing was signed. The Kingdom has shown greater understanding of our terrorism-related concerns and also agreed to work with India in countering this global menace," he said.

Meanwhile, in Islamabad, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has said - "Our objective is to try to de-escalate tensions between the two countries, neighbouring countries, and to see if there is a path forward to resolving those differences peacefully".
India on Monday asserted that notwithstanding the fact that Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has made a visit to Islamabad just on the eve of his trip to India, the context of Pakistan is "irrelevant" to India Saudi Arabia relations, informed sources said here.
"His visit to Pakistan in the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama attack is not a setback to India. Media have reported about Saudi investments coming in Pakistan....But when they invest in India, they will not be doing so to bail out the economy," a senior official said.

Saudi Crown Prince arrives for crucial talks amid unusual tension b/w India & Pak

New Delhi, Feb 19 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud as the latter kick starts his two-day crucial and maiden state visit to India at a time when heightened tension has surfaced between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

"India is delighted to welcome HRH Mohammed Bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia," Mr Modi tweeted.

"A new chapter in bilateral relations. Breaking protocol, PM Narendra Modi personally receives Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia as he arrives on his first bilateral visit to India", MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

India has asserted that notwithstanding the fact that Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has made a visit to Islamabad just on the eve of his trip to India, the context of Pakistan is "irrelevant" to India-Saudi Arabia relations.

The visiting dignitary, who made a visit to Pakistan on Sunday, will have important rounds of talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday.

In endorsement to India's stance on cross border terrorism and as a testimony of India-Saudi Arabia friendship the issue of terrorism will be highlighted at the bilateral talks between two sides on Wednesday.

"If you see 2016 Joint Statement issued in April 2016 during Mr Modi's visit, it is very much there.

There was a clear phrase of the terrorists operating and perpetrating terrorism from their territories against other states' ......so there is no reason to feel otherwise," a source said here.

The visit of Saudi Crown Prince comes at a time when Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan made a radio broadcast - "Pakistan offers full support for any investigation in Pulwama. I guarantee action on this".

Imran Khan's missive was dismissed hours later by Indian Ministry of External Affairs which in a strongly worded statement said - "We are not surprised that the Prime Minister of Pakistan refuses to acknowledge the attack on our security forces in Pulwama as an act of terrorism. Prime Minister of Pakistan has neither chosen to condemn this heinous act nor condoled with the bereaved families".

Ridiculing Khan's repeated reference to 'Naya Pakistan' in as many words, the statement said - "In this "Naya Pakistan”, Ministers of the current Government publicly share platforms with terrorists like Hafeez Saeed who have been proscribed by the United Nations".

"Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner in our extended neighbourhood. The Riyadh Declaration of 2010 had forged a Strategic Partnership between India and Saudi Arabia. Relations between India and Saudi Arabia are rooted in strong historical and civilisational links," Secretary, Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Affairs T S Tirumurti said.

"Our relations received a huge boost during the visit of Prime Minister Modi in April 2016. Since then, there has been an intensification of our engagement".

He also said the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned and denounced the terrorist attack on Indian security forces in Pulwama on February 14.