Shah says assembly polls in J & K whenever EC is ready: Jitendra Singh flays Oppn

Jitendra Singh (Union Minister, BJP MP from Jammu and Kashmir

".....we entered in the coalition (with PDP) dictated by the mandate of the people and we walked out of the coalition dictated by the will of the people because we are a Party with a difference. ....you (Opposition parties) ...have manipulated the Constitution of India to your convenience including Article370 and Article 35A. 

"Some of these people who do not have courage to call terrorist a 'terrorist'. They would struggle to say so....(aisa kahete huen unki juban larkhara jaati hae).....

But they crictise SPG and CRPF personnel who protect them, it is a sacrilege.

When Kashmiri pandits were forced to move out of their house....Are they not the stakeholders? In the history of the world, after the exchange of partitions of 1947, this was the biggest exodus that had happened.

Militancy is on its way out. We are going through the last phase of militancy in Kashmir.  

...... There is a huge change of approach as far as tackling terrorism with zero-tolerance is concerned. 

--Now, I am making a serious allegation before I conclude, and I have no hesitation in doing so.

There is a vested interest in Kashmir in the continuation of militancy. 

This vested interest is not only confined to other sections of society but also to the so-called mainstream political parties which are beneficiaries of low-voter turnout, beneficiaries of holding elections in the atmosphere of intimidation which enables them to carry on their dynasty rule generation after generation

There is a collusion between these Kashmir experts from the political spectrum and Kashmir experts from the intellectual spectrum. This intellectual terrorism, 28-06-2019 sh/rjn Uncorrected/Not for publication 341 let me repeat the term ‘Intellectual Terrorism’, is causing as much harm as the terrorists in the country.

More than 70 per cent population is below the age of 40. They have moved on. Whether you like it or not, whether anybody likes it or not, the youth of Kashmir has already become a part of the development journey of Modi’s ‘New India’.

We have invested heavily in Kashmir. We have lost our founder leader, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee in Kashmir. -- Jitendra Singh in Lok Sabha on June 28, 2019

The Lok Sabha on Friday approved a statutory resolution extending President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir for a period of six months. The House also passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

The resolution  and the Bill were passed after an intense and long debate lasting for about three hours and a nearly an hour-long spirited reply by Union Home Minister Amit Shah who appealed to the members to rise above party affiliations and political leanings to pass the two key measures.

 BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB (CUTTACK) of Bju Janata Dal : 

I am not going to give a speech on the Resolution and the Bill. I have certain questions or some queries. I have the Sankalp Patra of Bharatiya Janata Party before me. Here are the first two lines: Secure India, Determined India. The first one is ‘continue our policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and extremism and empower security forces in combating terrorism.’ The second line is more important: committed to the abrogation of article 370 and annulment of article
35A.

To a certain extent, my friend Shri Jitendra Singh also mentioned these two issues. I think the Home Minister can throw some light on what progress the Government is making on these two issues.  

..... and there is a need to extend the President’s Rule for another six months’ time. But the question is: can Presidential Proclamation remain in perpetuity? No, it cannot remain for more than three years except for the intervention of the Election Commission.

The Government has very little role to play. The Election Commission has
to certify that the continuance is necessary on account of difficulties in holding
elections to the Legislative Assembly. I would also like to mention here that before the date was fixed, two persons were sent to Jammu and Kashmir to find out whether to hold the Assembly elections or not. 

It was only after their report was provided to the Election Commission that it was decided that we would not be holding the Assembly elections. Why did it not happen? I think, the Minister concerned would be telling us the reason.

I would like to mention about the formation of the Government in 2015. The intelligence of the people was challenged but it was only Mufti sahab’s presence – whose name has been very rarely mentioned – and his leadership because of which everyone tolerated the situation.

ASADUDDIN OWAISI (HYDERABAD): AIMIM

Sir, I stand to oppose the President’s Rule because it is a violation of article 370. It is very clear that by extending the President Rule, this Government is violating article 370.

Secondly, yesterday the hon. Home Minister was in Jammu and Kashmir.He looked very handsome over there by wearing that pagri of Bakrawal. I wantto know from the Home Minister as to what is the definition of peace in histhinking. Do we want peace of a graveyard or do we want peace of mind? Whatwe are seeing now in Kashmir Valley is the peace of a graveyard. That will notsustain us. Kashmir is a part of our country and it will definitely be but how doyou bring peace of mind?

For example, when the Home Minister was there yesterday, the whole

Valley was closed. Is that the definition of peace? …(Interruptions). It is because

the Home Minister was in town, a traffic advisory was issued by the Governor,

due to which not a single person could come out of his house. Is that peace?

No. You say that the strike was not called. Last time, when Mr. Rajnath Singh

as a Home Minister went there, there was no strike.

Thirdly, I want to know from the hon. Home Minister whether he will accept

the talks offer given by Mirwaiz Farooq. He has given an olive branch. Will this

Government take it forward?

Fourthly, I want to tell the hon. Home Minister that his spokesperson has

said that they are dissolving this Government because of Shujaat Bukhari’s

death. 

Can you please tell us what has been the progress in Sujat Bukhari’s murder

investigation? Are you going to say that because we have killed that militant, a

terrorist, Sujat Bukhari’s investigation is over? I would like to know the details

from the hon. Home Minister.

The other point is that I would like to know from the hon. Home Minister

as to whether he can provide the list of how many Kashmiri Muslim Officers are

working. The reason I say this is because the list clearly shows the ratio as 68

per cent to 28 per cent.

What is this theory about delimitation? One hon. Member said that it is

slated towards Kashmir. I respectfully submit that there are 15 lakhs more

people living in the Valley. Are you for delimitation? Can you please tell us how

many Kashmiri Pandits have you taken back in Kashmir in the last five years?

Please tell the House. It is because this has been an election issue. You use

article 370; you use Kashmiri Pandits to beat us, to create an atmosphere of

fear.

These are my important questions on which I seek answers from the hon.

Home Minister. Please bring peace of mind and not peace of a graveyard. There

have been so many IDE attacks. Since 2005, 73 security personnel died during

the rule of this Government. Eighty-seven locals have been killed. We want to

know your position on shooting of boys. These questions have to be answered

by the hon. Home Minister. 

``We have carried out strikes at the very root of terrorism which everyone knows is fuelled by Pakistan"- AMIT SHAH, HOME MINISTER, BJP Chief - Gandhinagar MP

In his first major speech in the newly constituted 17th Lok Sabha, Mr Shah reiterated the Modi government's commitment to follow the path of ``Insaniyat, Jamhooriyat and Kashmiriyat'' as enunciated by former Prime Minister ATal Bihari Vajpayee.

He assured the House that free and fair assembly polls would be held in J & K whenever Election Commission of India wanted to conduct the exercise in the State. Tear into Congress charges, Mr. Shah said that till today Article 356 of the Constitution has been invoked 132 times and out of which 93 times it was used during the Congress rule for political considerations.

Stressing that the BJP-led government was continuing its policy of ``Zero Tolerance'' towards terrorism, Mr Shah who returned after a two-day security review meeting in Jammu and Kashmir said that other parties also did not support terrorism but their ways and means in implementing policies were different than those of the BJP government.

``We have carried out strikes at the very root of terrorism which everyone knows is fuelled by Pakistan. Surgical strike and air strike were two examples of hitting hard at the very origin of terrorism and these have yielded desired results,'' Mr Shah said amid applause and thumpling of desks by treasury benches. He said the BJP government had reviewed security provided to individuals in J and K, mostly those who aired anti-India views. ``We took away security cover of 919 such persons and also banned Pakistani channels which were beaming anti-India propaganda by twisting facts,'' he informed the House.

Replying to concerns raised by members on holding of assembly elections in the border State, Mr Shah said the government would not delay even for a moment the recommendation of the Election Commission of India whenever it was ready to conduct elections in Jammu and Kashmir. ``We will not hesitate and delay even for a second assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir. These were not held simultaneously with Lok Sabha polls as more candidates would have been in electoral arena and ensuring their security was a difficult task. Lok Sabha elections in the State were held in a peaceful manner,'' he told the House.

While moving the resolution earlier, he said since the state assembly has been dissolved and the Election Commission has decided to hold fresh elections in Jammu and Kashmir later this year, it is essential that the President's Rule be extended for another six months with effect from July 3, 2019. He said during the Governor's Rule and later President's Rule, the government hit at the roots of terrorism. The state has seen violence in previous elections, but things have changed, he said.  

Hitting out at Congress, he blamed it for the partition which he called a historic blunder of Himalayan proportions as well as giving away PoK by agreeing to ceasefire when Pakistani invaders had trooped in to Kashmir Valley. He said the seed of alienation of Kashmiri people was sown when elections in 1957, 1962 and 1967 were held in a facrical manner. ``Such jokes in the name of elections made Kashmiri people lose their confidence in Indian government and it sowed seeds of doubt in them,'' he said.  

Stating that the BJP vehemently opposed ``tukde, tukde gang'', Mr. Shah said those who want to break the country, should feel frightened. ``The fear should not be in the minds of the the people of Jammu and Kashmir. We consider the people of Jammu and Kashmir as our own. But the doubts that have already been sown long ago, are creating problems. We are trying to bring Kashmiri people into national mainstream,'' he said.

``Our government is concerned about the voice and aspirations of people in Kashmir. Till today, the Panchayats have not been given the right to choose Panch and Sarpanch. Only three families have ruled Kashmir for so many years. Why should they run the Gram Panchayat, the Nagar Panchayat and even the government?  The welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir is our top priority. Our government feels that they should be given more since they have suffered a lot. Our government has taken a lot of steps to implement development projects in the State,'' he said.

He recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given a Rs. 80,000 crore special package in 2015 to Jammu and Kashmir for development projects like roads, bridges and power stations. He said that schools were reopened, mid-day meals were introduced, thousands of J and K students were taken on tour to different parts of India to show that they were inalienable part of India. He said two AIIMS, IIMs and IITs have already been sanctioned for the State.  

  

The Home Minister said that on June 23,1953, when Shyama Prasad Mukherjee went to Jammu and Kashmir protesting against the permit system and two Prime Ministers in the country, he was arrested and later died under mysterious circumstances.

``Shouldn't a probe be launched into it as Mr Mukherjee was an opposition leader then, a leader of the country and of Bengal and a former Union Industries Minister. If today, West Bengal is a part of India, it is because of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee's contribution,'' he said.

Mr Shah said that national security continues to remain on the top priority of the government as the BJP always stood for a strong nation where all citizens feel secure. He said that for the first time all demands of the Central Armed Para-Military Forces (CAPFs), deplyoed in J and K, were met at a total cost of Rs. 2300 crores. He said that a Terror Monitoring Group (TMG) has been created to ensure smooth coordination among all agencies active in the Valley -- Army, Intelligence, CRPF, BSF and State Police.

PTI Report adds:

Home Minister Amit Shah Friday accused the Congress of terrorism in Kashmir and responsible for the state's current situation, alleging that former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's decisions were behind India losing one-third of its territory to Pakistan.

He was replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on the resolution to extend President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir for another six months from July 3.

Shah alleged that the policies of previous Congress governments widened the wedge between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the country.

He said his government is making efforts to bridge this gap and remove terrorism from its roots and restore democracy in the state.

The House passed by voice vote the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, to replace an ordinance issued by previous government, extending President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir, amidst opposition from the Congress and some other parties.

The Lok Sabha also cleared the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019, to replace an ordinance issued by the previous government.

He told the House that elections in the state will be held in a free, fair and democratic manner once the Election Commission announces the schedule.

Responding to a question, the Minister said assembly elections could not be held along with Lok Sabha elections in the state as large number of security personnel were required for the purpose.

Shah said Article 370 of the Constitution which extends special status to Jammu and Kashmir, is "temporary in nature" and "not permanent".

In his maiden speech as Home Minister in the lower house, Shah launched a blistering attack on the Congress alleging that it made the maximum use of Article 356 of the Constitution to dismiss elected governments in various states in the past.

"Today one-third of Kashmir is not with us. Who announced ceasefire when Pakistan encroached in Kashmir after independence and occupied one-third of its territory.

"Jawaharlal Nehru announced ceasefire and Pakistan took away that part of Kashmir," he said alleging that Nehru did not take the then Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Patel into confidence.

"If he would have taken Patel into confidence before announcing ceasefire, then Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) would not have formed and terrorism would not have existed in Kashmir," Shah said.

He said one-third of Indian territory is with Pakistan now.

The Congress members reacted sharply to this on which Shah said he would not take Nehru's name but referred to him only as the first prime minister.

The Home Minister said the present government adopted "zero tolerance" towards terrorism and people who try to divide the country have fear in their hearts, which will increase in the coming times.

"We are not members of the 'tukde tukde' gang. Those who want to break India should have fear in their hearts...they should be scared and their fear will increase further in the coming times," Shah asserted.

Continuing his tirade against the opposition party, he said so far Article 356 (President's Rule) was imposed 132 times all over the country, of which the Congress used it 93 times to dismiss state governments.

"Some in the opposition said that through President Rule efforts are being made to throttle democracy. 132 times Article 356 has been imposed in the country, of which 93 times was by Congress. We have never used Article 356 for political gains," he said.

The Home Minister also said the government withdrew security of 919 people in the state as there was no security threat for them.

"Earlier people who used to speak against the country were given security cover," he said, adding whereas those who spoke for India were actually killed in the state.

Invoking Vajpayee's philosphy of 'Insaaniyat, Jamhuriyat and Kashmiriat', Shah, who is also the BJP chief, said during the Congress' rule at the Centre, the rights of common man was snatched.

"They could not even go for voting (in the state) as their democratic right. It is for the first time that rights were being given to common people and 3 families are taking a backseat," he said while also referring to the arrest of Sheikh Abdullah by the then Congress government.

Shah said this sowed "seed of distrust among people of Jammu and Kashmir that was planted by Congress".

Suggesting that only a strong "medicine" could stop terrorism, Shah said the government at the same time does not want to create an atmosphere of fear.


"We are taking steps to remove the fear which you (Congress) have put in the minds of people," he said, while mentioning various developmental initiatives carried out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in the last five years.

Modi, Trump meet: Interact, say cheer up

Osaka (Japan), Jun 29 The US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held informal chats on Day 2 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit here on Saturday.


Just as Prime Minister Modi was seen interacting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and India's Sherpa for the Summit Suresh Prabhu, President Trump walked in and shook hands with Mr Modi.


Both the leaders were also seen interacting very briefly and gesturing fingers signaling okay and cheer up to each other.


Prime Minister Modi was even seen gesturing thumps up for a while.


Both the leaders held important rounds of bilateral engagements on Friday discussing wide range of issues including trade ties and strategic matters.



Both PM Modi and President Trump also met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a trilateral meeting under the 'JAI - Japan, America and India' framework.


On Friday, President Trump had said emphatically - "India and the US have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety" - underlining the fact that India-US bond has come a long way and much closer and stronger during last few years.

You deserve Electoral Win, Trump tells Modi

Osaka, Jun 28 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with the US President Donald Trump here on Friday.

In his initial remarks, Prime Minister thanked President Trump for congratulating him for the recent poll victory.

"I would like to thank you for your extending congratulations to us immediately after the polls which have given a mandate for political stability in India," Mr Modi told the US President.

Prime Minister underlined that talks should be held between India and the US on Iran and defence among other issues.
"We are committed for a long term basis good relations with the US," Prime Minister said.

For his part, President Trump said - "We will work together in many ways including military, we will be discussing trade today". "India and the US have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety," Mr Trump said laying emphasis on the fact that India-US has come a long way and much closer and stronger during last few years.

Congratulating PM Modi for the massive electoral win in the parliamentary polls, Mr Trump said -"You (PM Modi) deserve it. You have done a great job in pulling together."

"I remember when you first took over, there were many factions and they were fighting with each other and now they get along. It's a fantastic tribute to you and your abilities," Mr Trump said.
Referring to just held Trilateral talks between him, PM Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, President Trump said - "We had successful talks ....and very soon we are going to announce trade transactions".

Modi's anti-terror battle gets backing from Putin & Xi : Time to move on, PM tells Trump

Osaka, Japan, Jun 28 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged the international community to convene a counter terror meet during his maiden bilateral and multilateral interactions since resumption of power with global leaders Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping.

Prime Minister's initiative got endorsement of two other RIC members Russia and China, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters here.

"The three leaders discussed the world situation both economic and peace and stability," he said.
Mr Gokhale said terrorism figured prominently at the deliberations and Prime Minister Modi said it was a serious challenge. A global conference to tackle the menace was imperative.


"PM Modi was assured that Russia and China would support this (global conference) on terrorism," Mr Gokhale said.
Mr Modi tweeted, "The RIC meeting was an excellent forum to discuss ways to enhance multilateral cooperation between our nations and work to mitigate challenges being faced by our planet, most notably terrorism and climate change".

Addressing the BRICS leaders Informal Meet in presence of Mr Putin and Mr Xi, the Prime Minister asserted, "Recently, I have made a call for a global conference to discuss various aspects of terrorism. The fight against terror menace should become among the top priorities of the world".
Trade, tariffs
Mr Modi also highlighted strengthening of the global trade and financing bodies such as the World Trade Organisation and called for efforts to fight protectionism and ensure energy security.
At Osaka, Japan, for the G20 summit, Mr Modi participated in a trilateral meet with President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe. He also held crucial bilateral talks with Mr Trump and said it was time to move beyond the tariffs and defence deals issue.
On trade tariffs topic, Mr Modi told President Trump during bilateral parleys that it is true that the Indian government had taken some actions after the Generalised System of Preferences was revoked but the two nations should now look forward.
The Foreign Secretary clarified that Mr Modi also made it clear, "That was now something that already had happened and now we should now look forward.''
5-1 vision
In his intervention at the G20 Summit on digital economy, Mr Modi presented his "5-I" vision to maximise digital technology for social benefits.
"Shaping the agenda. PM Narendra Modi presented his vision of maximising digital technology for society benefit in his intervention at G20 on Digital Economy & AI (Artificial Intelligence). The 5 'I's are -- Inclusiveness, Indigenisation, Innovation, Investment in infrastructure & International cooperation," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.
Iran region
Mr Modi and the US President laid emphasis on maintaining stability in the Iran region.
"Essentially, the two leaders agreed that they and their (Indian and US) officials will continuously remain in touch so that the region remains stable...and I think that is in our interest, it is in the interest of the United States and the interest of the region," the Foreign Secretary said.

"Today's meeting of the JAI Trilateral was a productive one. We had extensive discussions on the Indo-Pacific region, improving connectivity and infrastructure development. Grateful to PM Shinzo Abe and President Donald Trump for sharing their views as well," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

Modi, Trump pledge to work 'continuously' for peace in the Gulf region

Osaka (Japan), Jun 28 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President Donald Trump held their bilateral talks - first since Mr Modi's re-election with a massive mandate - here on the sidelines of the G20 Summit and both the leaders laid emphasis on maintaining stability in the Iran region.



"Essentially the two leaders agreed that they and their (Indian and US) officials will continuously remain in touch so that the region remains stable...and I think that is in our interest, it is in the interest of the United States and the interest of the region," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters after the bilateral talks.


Foreign Secretary maintained that the contentious S-400 issue on India-Russia defence deal did not figure at the parleys.


"S-400 issue was not discussed...there was an issue of time constraints," he said.


However, he asserted categorically, - "No one issue is going to impact the larger strategic relation between India and the United States".  


But he said, the issue of India's defence deal with Russia was addressed by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar at a joint press conference with the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Delhi on June 26.


"So that's where it stands.....no discussion took place (on S-400)," Mr Gokhale made it clear.


On Iran, Mr Gokhale said the "primary focus was on how we ensure stability in that region".


"Instability affects us in many ways. Not just in terms of our energy needs ....but also in terms of our large diaspora in Gulf, eight million Indians in the Gulf," he said.  


Foreign Secretary underlined that India's relationship with the United States is very deep.

"....We have some issues, we will work through them," he maintained adding emphatically no one issue is going to in any way have 'any impact' in ties between the two nations.


Foreign Secretary said both the leaders had "very open meeting and very warm discussions".

Time to 'look forward', Modi tells Trump on tariff: Discusses terror, Accepts Saudi invite

Osaka, Jun 28 Less than a month since he resumed his second term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday engaged himself with a host of global leaders including President Donald Trump and also Asian players such as Saudi Crown Prince and discussed wide range of issues including counter terror measures, trade ties and on the Indo Pacific.


On trade tariffs issue, Prime Minister told President Trump during bilateral parleys that it is true that the Indian government had taken some actions after the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) was revoked.


But Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale later told reporters that Mr Modi also made it clear - "that was now something that already had happened and now we should now look forward".


In his intervention at the G20 Summit on digital economy, Mr Modi presented his "5-I" vision to maximise digital technology for social benefits.
"Shaping the agenda. PM Narendra Modi presented his vision of maximising digital technology for society benefit in his intervention at G20 on Digital Economy & AI (Artificial Intelligence). The 5 'I's are -- Inclusiveness, Indigenisation, Innovation, Investment in infrastructure & International cooperation," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.



This is Modi's sixth G20 Summit. Mr Modi made optimum use of the presence of global leaders and has held a series of bilateral and multi-lateral interactions.


Besides attending the Informal Meeting of BRICS leaders on the sidelines of G20 Summit, he hosted the trilateral Russia, India and China (RIC) meet attended by Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping.


In BRICS meet, he gave a push to fight terror menace and urged the international community to convene a counter terror meet.



"Recently, I have made a call for a global conference to discuss various aspects of terrorism. The fight against terror menace should become among the top priorities of the world," Prime Minister said.


Mr Modi also spoke about strengthening of the global trade and financing bodies such as the WTO and called for efforts to fight protectionism and ensuring energy security.


He also sought international support for his desire to launch a global initiative on disaster management especially for smaller nations.


During bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister "particularly appreciated" the efforts being made by Saudi Arabia in ensuring that the oil supplies have remained stable and the "oil prices have remained predictable in the last few months".




Briefing reporters, Foreign Secretary Gokhale said in bilateral talks with President Trump, Mr Modi said that though Iran supplies 11 per cent of India's energy, his government has 'reduced' oil imports from Iran. 
For his part, Mr Trump talked about what the United States was doing to ensure that stability was maintained in the Gulf.

".....we have economic interests in the region and therefore it is in India’s fundamental interest to ensure peace and stability of the region. We have deployed some of the Indian Navy Ships in the region to protect the Indian flagged vessels passing through the Gulf and the straits of Hormuz," the Foreign Secretary said.

 


Saudi Crown Prince has invited Mr Modi to attend an international event later this year and Prime Minister has accepted the same, Mr Gokhale said.


Prime Minister also held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of G20 Summit. Both the leaders were seen embracing each other and smiling jovially.
Indo-France ties has experienced positive movement during recent years and especially on defence ties, the relations have become stronger especially in the context of Indian government's decision to procure Rafale combat aircraft.
Mr Modi also held talks with his counterpart from Canada Justin Trudeau and met Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany.

Germany is India's largest trade partner in the 28-member European Union bloc.
Prime Minister also met with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and both the leaders expressed mutual desire to synergise India's Act East Policy with Korea's New Southern Policy.



"A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties. On the margins of G20 Summit PM Narendra Modi had a good meeting with President of Republic of Korea," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.


Mr Modi also held interactions with Vietnamese PM Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc and World Bank President David Malpass in the Leaders' Lounge.


India on Friday also asserted that given the importance the data would have in times to come all the discussions and debates on data should be held in the WTO context.
"We would like the international rule making on data to be based on WTO context, because movement of data is actually one form of trade," Foreign Secretary told reporters.

"This is important as in the future when the digital economy grows, the flow of data will be critical to trade," Mr Gokhale said adding therefore the rule making must involve all countries.

ends

Modi, Trump pledge to work 'continuously' for peace in the Gulf region

Osaka (Japan), Jun 28  Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US President Donald Trump held their bilateral talks - first since Mr Modi's re-election with a massive mandate - here on the sidelines of the G20 Summit and both the leaders laid emphasis on maintaining stability in the Iran region.

"Essentially the two leaders agreed that they and their (Indian and US) officials will continuously remain in touch so that the region remains stable...and I think that is in our interest, it is in the interest of the United States and the interest of the region," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters after the bilateral talks.

Foreign Secretary maintained that the contentious S-400 issue on India-Russia defence deal did not figure at the parleys.
"S-400 issue was not discussed...there was an issue of time constraints," he said.

However, he asserted categorically, - "No one issue is going to impact the larger strategic relation between India and the United States".  

But he said, the issue of India's defence deal with Russia was addressed by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar at a joint press conference with the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Delhi on June 26.


"So that's where it stands.....no discussion took place (on S-400)," Mr Gokhale made it clear.


On Iran, Mr Gokhale said the "primary focus was on how we ensure stability in that region".


"Instability affects us in many ways. Not just in terms of our energy needs ....but also in terms of our large diaspora in Gulf, eight million Indians in the Gulf," he said.


Foreign Secretary underlined that India's relationship with the United States is very deep.

"....We have some issues, we will work through them," he maintained adding emphatically no one issue is going to in any way have 'any impact' in ties between the two nations.

Foreign Secretary said both the leaders had "very open meeting and very warm discussions".

Despite Iran-US conflict, there is need for continuous supply of oil: PM Modi

Osaka (Japan), Jun 28 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday made a strong pitch for ensuring that there is unhindered and continuous supply of oil at a reasonable price and maintained that Saudi Arabia has an important role to play on this front.


Answering questions at the media briefing here on the sidelines of G20 Summit where Prime Minister is holding a series of bilateral meetings, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters: "Iran was not discussed specifically in talks between PM and Saudi Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud".


But he went onto clarify that - ".....what was discussed was that Prime Minister indicated that we need to have a continuous supply of oil at a reasonable price. He (Modi) felt Saudis have a critical role to play in ensuring this".


Prime Minister thanked Saudi Arabian leadership for ensuring that as of now there is a 'balance' in the oil market.


Foreign Secretary further said - "In a sense there was an underlining concern conveyed that the instability that is happening in the Gulf should not adversely impact".



In the context of oil import by India, he also pointed out that India has already reduced oil import from Iran and Venezuela.



"But the subject of Iran as such did not come up for discussions between Prime Minister Modi and the Saudi crown prince," Mr Gokhale clarified.

In presence of Modi: Ahmedabad, Kobe cities exchange papers for sister city partnership

Kobe, Jun 27 In a boost to bilateral ties and announcing enhanced cooperation on developmental front a Letter of Intent was exchanged here on Thursday by Indian officials and the authorities from the Japanese city of Kobe for a major project in Ahmedabad.

"Strengthening people-to-people ties. PM Narendra Modi witnessed the exchange of Letter of Intent on Ahmedabad-Kobe Sister City Partnership at Kobe," MEA spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Mr Modi also addressed a function organised by the Indian community here.PM Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe had inked a 'sister-state relationship MoU for Gujarat and Hyogo prefecture in In November 2016.

Kobe is the capital city of Hyogo. Prime Minister had also visited a bullet train plant in Kobe in 2016.

The MoU sought to promote mutual cooperation between Gujarat and Hyogo in the fields of academics, business, cultural cooperation, disaster management and environmental protection.
Mr Modi is in Japan to attend the G20 Summit to be held at Osaka from Friday.
India is planning to run its first bullet train between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The stone laying ceremony was held on September 14, 2017 in Ahmedabad by both the Prime Ministers Modi and Shinzo Abe.

Government sources said the first stretch of the ambitious project is expected to be completed by 2022.
Civil construction of the corridor was expected to begin by 2018 and the project was scheduled to be completed in 2023.
The deadline was advanced to have the bullet train go on its first run on August 15, 2022 on the occasion of India's 75th Independence day.
All geo-technical surveys and tests under the sea bed for the underground section were completed by December 2017, officials say.

'Bharat Mata ki jai' and 'Jai Shri Ram' slogans greet Modi: PM pledges digital infra works

Kobe (Japan), Jun 27 (UNI) Amid 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' slogans, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the ever enthusiastic and jubilant Indian community here that in the next five years, his priority would be to make India a five-trillion dollar economy and lay more emphasis on digital infrastructures.

"In the next five years, our government's target will be to make India a five-trillion dollar economy. Social sector will continue to get high priority. Also we will focus more on infrastructure development, and especially digital infrastructures," Prime Minister said addressing a Indian community event in Hyogo Perfecture Guest House in Kobe.

Mr Modi arrived here on a three-day visit for the G20 Summit wherein he would have a series of bilateral meetings including with US President Donald Trump.

He said the bilateral strategic ties between India and Japan will become more robust as his government has set a target to make India be a USD 5 trillion economy in the next five years.

Prime Minister lauded the Japanese spirit of commitment to nationhood and how best the human talent and technology could be utilized for the betterment of all.

"It is my fourth visit to Japan....and in Japan I have seen the living experience of one's commitment to civilisational values and how best the talent and technology could be used," the Prime Minister said.

Emphasising that over the decades how things have moved faster, Mr Modi said there was a time when two countries cooperated for making cars and today India and Japan are cooperating for making of bullet trains.

"Ek samay tha jab hum car bananey mein sahyog kar rahe they....aaj hum bullet train banaey mein sahyog kar rahen haen," the Prime Minister said in reference to cooperation in automobile sector launched in 1970s.

"Today there is no part of India left where there is no trace of Japanese projects and investments," Mr Modi said and went onto add that the talent and manpower of India are contributing to strengthening Japan and adding to its progress and prosperity.

"The mission to Moon, Chandrayan-II, will be launched soon. By 2022, India will also launch its first manned mission 'Gaganyaan'," Prime Minister said amid applause.

Noting that Japan has been a partner in India's development for decades, the Prime Minister said Tokyo will have a major role to play in the building of a "new India".

He said India is planning to explore the space and the possibility of having the country's own space station. Earlier in the day, he held crucial round of bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and others. Briefing reporters after the talks, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said the during interaction Mr Abe referred to the "need to find appropriate situations" for global trade and data flows.

Mr Abe felt that the G20 should come up with a very constructive message on the issue of climate change, Mr Gokhale said. "Prime Minister Abe initially began (during the talks) with the expectations from the G20 meeting, he spoke about the importance of focusing on the global economy," Foreign Secretary said.

Mr Abe also referred specifically to Prime Minister Modi’s initiative at earlier G20 meetings on the issue of fugitive economic offenders and said that the G20 should deal with this problem as part of the anti-corruption measures.

Indian diaspora in Japan endorses 2019 poll results as 'win for honesty': PM Modi

Kobe/Osaka (Japan), Jun 27 Indian diaspora in Japan have described recently held parliamentary polls in India as a 'win for honesty and truth', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday at a community function at Obe in Japan.

"Outcome of the 2019 Lok Sabha polls has caused immense happiness among the Indian diaspora.

At the community programme, I asked those who had gathered- the win in 2019 is whose win?

They promptly replied- it is a win for honesty. Their answer was very pleasing," Prime Minister later tweeted along with the video footage of his speech.

In his address, Prime Minister said one feels happy when Indians in Japan are saying that the election results in India was 'outcome of sachai'.

"Jab mein aapse yeh jawab sunta hoon toh kitna accha lagta hae. Yeh sachai ki jeet hae (When I hear from you all that it was a win for honesty and truth, I feel very happy)," Prime Minister said gesturing his closed fist.

Prime Minister is in Japan to participate at the G20 Summit and will also have a series of multi lateral and bilateral engagements with top world leaders including the US President Donald Trump on Friday at Osaka.

Mr Modi held bilateral talks with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe on Thursday at Osaka.

Prime Minister will be engaged in high level diplomatic engagements with about ten global leaders including the likes US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Sources in the Indian government indicated that Mr Modi is likely to hold bilateral talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and also participate at the trilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping under the RIC arrangements on Friday.

He will also meet Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and also Korean President Moon Jae-in.

Sources said BRICS leaders would also meet separately during the two-day Summit and Mr Modi and Mr Trump would also participate at the Japan-America-India (JAI) trilaterals with Japanese Prime Minister Abe.

There would be also pull aside meetings with President of World Bank Group David Malpass, Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Thailand Prime Minister General Prayat Chan-o-cha.

During Thursday's talks with Mr Abe, Prime Minister Modi also sought Japan's assistance in building disaster resilient infrastructure.

"We will be approaching other leaders as Prime Minister meets them in the Summit and the intention is actually to launch this (global disaster management) sometime later in the year. Precise details will obviously be given later," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters later.

Japan has shown how civilisational values and tech can go together: PM Modi

Osaka (Japan), Jun 27  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the Japanese spirit of commitment to nationhood and how best the human talent and technology could be utilised for the betterment of all.

"It is my fourth visit to Japan....and in Japan I have seen the living experience of one's commitment to civilisational values and how best the talent and technology could be used," the Prime Minister said in his address to the Indian community here.

Mr Modi arrived here on a three-day visit for the G20 Summit wherein he would have a series of bilateral meetings including with US President Donald Trump.

"In every journey of mine to Japan, I have experienced a sense of brotherhood between the people of two countries," he said.

Emphasising that over the decades how things have moved faster, Mr Modi said there was a time when two countries cooperated for making cars and today India and Japan are cooperating for making of bullet trains.

"Ek samay tha jab hum car bananey mein sahyog kar rahe they....aaj hum bullet train banaey mein sahyog kar rahen haen," the Prime Minister said in reference to cooperation in automobile sector launched in 1970s.

"Today there is no part of India left where there is no trace of Japanese projects and investments," Mr Modi said and also pointed out that India's manpower and talent are thus contributing in help Japan attain progress and prosperity also.

In reference to his personal rapport with Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister recalled Japanese PM accompanying him to Varanasi and participating at the 'Ganga Arati'.

"That image of Japanese Prime Minister remains fresh in people's mind," Mr Modi said.

He said there are some similarities between the manner people of the two countries speak - Like Indians say 'Dhyan', Japanese people say 'Zen'.

"Whenever we speak of friends of India in global context, the name of Japan would definitely come in," the Prime Minister said.

ends

PM outlines his vision:: India, US inch forward in Pompeo-Jaishankar talks

New Delhi, India and the United States on Wednesday leaped forward in strengthening India-US Strategic Partnership braving irritants in trade ties with both the sides agreeing that there is also enhanced level of understanding and appreciation of India's defence position and other requirements among the policy makers in America.
"We see one another (India and the US) not simply as bilateral companions, however one thing a lot greater than that, in order that we may help one another all all over the world," the visiting US secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here after talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.
On the vexed issues of 'trade disputes and S-400 procurement programme of India from Russia,' Mr Pompeo went onto say: "I see the two issues as real opportunities, I know that we can work together and provide a foundation for the relationship".

"I have never found an ally no matter how close, where we did not have places we have had to work. We have endeavoured to make sure that our countries can provide security for itself..... we also want India to be able to do that too," Mr Pompeo remarked.
To a question whether India's position on international affairs especially in the context of defence ties with Russia and India's own defence preparedness is well understood by the policy makers in Washington, EAM Jaishankar said: "This (New Delhi meet on June 26) is a start" and there can be always room for more works.
For his part, Mr Pompeo also said -  "India's position is well understood in Washington....there is a deep keen appreciation" and more so in the context of a large Indian American population who helps American policy makers to understand how new India is evolving.
Dr Jaishankar said - "India and the US have a strategic partnership....The partnership is as broad as it is deep. Convergence of views on bilateral and regional interests has been growing steadily in the past few years".

Agreeing to his Indian counterpart on growing ties and better understanding between the two sides, Mr Pompeo said: "The US-India partnership is already beginning to reach new heights, including our defense corporation and our common vision for free and open Indo-Pacific".
Answering questions, Dr Jaishankar said both the leaders had detailed discussion about US-Iran conflict in the conflict. "We have a certain perspective on Iran, Secy Pompeo shared his views and I think both of us came better informed (at the end of the talks)".


He said definitely there is "common ground on energy" between the US and India and it is obvious that the American establishment and the US Secretary of State himself understands "what India's interests are".
External Affairs Minister also said - "We discussed the situation in the Gulf, I shared our interests and concerns with Secretary Pompeo, energy security is part of it but there are other concerns as well about diaspora, regional security and trade".

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined his 'vision' for the Strategic Partnership in the new tenure of the Indian Government under him 'and beyond' and clearly emphasised that this will be built on strong foundation of 'trust and shared interest'.
"The Prime Minister reiterated the priority that he attaches to relations with the U.S. and outlined his vision for the Strategic Partnership in the new tenure of the Government and beyond, building on strong foundation of trust and shared interest," a series of tweets from PMO said in reference to the US Secretary of State's meeting with him in morning hours.
"The Prime Minister expressed his strong commitment to achieve the full potential of bilateral relations in trade and economy, energy, defence, counter-terrorism and people-to-people contacts," another missive said.

Mr Pompeo also conveyed greetings of President Donald Trump to the Prime Minister and congratulated him on his electoral victory.

The Prime Minister thanked Secretary Pompeo for his warm greetings and requested him to convey his thanks also to President Trump for his good wishes.
The two leaders discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship to strengthen the India-US strategic partnership.

Mr Pompeo's New Delhi visit comes days ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and PM Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan possibly on June 28.

Indo Pacific is for peace, says Jaishankar: US does understand India, notes Pompeo

New Delhi, Jun 26 (UNI) External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and the US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo held free, frank and candid discussions here on Wednesday on wide range of issues including on the situation in Iran region.

Speaking to reporters after the bilateral meeting, Dr Jaishankar said: "I made the point that Indo-Pacific is for something, not against somebody ....but for somebody and that something is peace, security, stability and prosperity".

He also said India is looking at a "landscape" where a number of independent players work together for what they believe to be global good.

Agreeing to his Indian counterpart on growing ties and better understanding between the two sides, Mr Pompeo said: "The US-India partnership is already beginning to reach new heights, including our defense corporation and our common vision for free and open Indo-Pacific".

Answering questions, Dr Jaishankar said both the leaders had detailed discussion about US-Iran conflict in the conflict. "We have a certain perspective on Iran, Secy Pompeo shared his views and I think both of us came better informed (at the end of the talks)".

He said definitely there is "common ground on energy" between the US and India and it is obvious that the American establishment and the US Secretary of State himself understands "what India's interests are".

Dr Jaishankar said at the deliberations, both the Foreign Ministers has tried for working at "harmonising our interests" and went onto remark that "that's really the task of diplomacy".

"Obviously from time to time in any relationship, specific issues will arise and I think we have discussed many of those issues," Dr Jaishankar said.

To a question whether India's position on international affairs especially in the context of defence ties with Russia and India's own defence preparedness is well understood by the policy makers in Washington, EAM Jaishankar said: "This (New Delhi meet on June 26) is a start" and there can be always room for more works.

For his part, Mr Pompeo also said -  "India's position is well understood in Washington....there is a deep keen appreciation" and more so in the context of a large Indian American population who helps American policy makers to understand how new India is evolving.

US fast tracks efforts to boost ties: Envoy meets Nirmala and Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, Jun 26 (UNI) The US has put its efforts to boost ties with India especially on economic and defense sectors on fast track and the envoy Ken Juster held a series of important meetings during last two days.

The US ambassador to India met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here on Tuesday.

Previous day, on Monday he had called on Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and shared his views on the meeting in a tweet saying: "Always a pleasure to meet again with Minister Rajnath Singh.  Good discussion on the US India Defense relationship".

US Navy's Rear Admiral Francis Morley also arrived here on June 24. "Excellent discussion on our defense cooperation with India and next steps to expand the defense relationship," Mr Juster had tweeted.

In a statement - Fact Sheet - the US government has highlighted about "the reinvigorated quadrilateral dialogue" between the United States, India, Japan, and Australia and pointed that the four countries have met four times since President Trump took office to discuss ways to strengthen a "rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific in which all nations are sovereign, strong, and prosperous".

The statement also talks about the second trilateral meeting between the leaders of the United States, India, and Japan (under the JAI arrangements) to be held on the margins of the G20 Summit in Osaka either on June 28 or 29.

The statement hails the first 2+2 Dialogue held in September 2018 in Delhi that had culminated in the announcement of a new tri-service exercise and the signing of a secure communications agreement that will enable India to operationalize its status as a Major Defense Partner.

"We anticipate holding the next 2+2 in late 2019 in Washington, D.C," it said.

The Fact Sheet said: The United States granted India Strategic Trade Authorization tier 1 status last year, allowing India to enjoy the same license-free access to certain defense articles as NATO allies, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. This status also creates greater supply chain efficiency and supports U.S. industry and investment".

As Pompeo to kick-start diplomatic talks, US bats for lowering of trade barriers

New Delhi, Jun 26 (UNI) As Secretary of State Mike Pompeo begins his India visit days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bilateral engagement with the US President Donald Trump, Washington has strongly favoured New Delhi lowering the trade barriers and "embrace fair and reciprocal trade".

"The Trump administration is working to ensure that American companies operating in India have the same level playing field that Indian companies enjoy in the United States. There is enormous potential to grow our trade relationship and create the high-quality jobs that Prime Minister Modi wants if India lowers trade barriers and embraces fair and reciprocal trade," an US government statement said here.

The statement seeks to show that the mood of the American side before parleys with Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is extremely positive and also tries to negate the atmosphere of disputes as being generally perceived especially in trade and over India's arms deal with Russia.

The statement says - "the bond between the US and India is unbreakable" and goes on to add:

"As the world’s oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share deep respect for one another’s values and traditions. Our people and cultures are profoundly intertwined".

It also said that the Indian diaspora in the United States is nearly four million strong. "Indian-Americans are thriving in the United States and helping to make our communities more secure and prosperous through their leadership in industry, academia, and government."

It also said that economic partnership has enormous potential for growth and that the US companies see "great opportunity" in India, and increased economic openness and investment will yield mutual benefit.

"The United States is India’s most important trading partner. As India’s number one overseas market, the United States purchases close to one-fifth of India’s exports.  India is also the fastest growing major market for U.S. goods. Two-way bilateral goods and services trade with India totaled $142 billion in 2018, up 12.6 percent, or almost $16 billion, over the prior year".

It also said that the US crude oil exports to India are surging, increasing India’s energy security while reducing the bilateral trade deficit. The United States exported nearly 50 million barrels of crude to India in 2018, compared to less than 10 million barrels in 2017, and is on pace to export even greater volumes in 2019.

Moreover the US defense sales to India are estimated to reach approximately $18 billion by 2019 from near zero in 2008, boosting India’s national security capabilities and increasing employment in both countries.

The statement said President Trump and Prime Minister Modi are firmly committed to accelerating the "upward trajectory of this partnership".  

"Prime Minister Modi’s sweeping mandate in the recent elections creates a unique opportunity to realize this vision," it said.

The United States and India are moving quickly to achieve the shared vision for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region by expanding cooperation in areas such as energy, aviation, and space, the statement said.

Mr Pompeo, who arrived here on Tuesday night, would kick start his diplomatic engagement with a call on to Prime Minister Modi at around 1000 hours on Wednesday.

This will be followed by a meeting between him and EAM Dr Jaishankar.

"We are looking at this visit as an useful input," a diplomatic source said here.

"This is a visit about two ministers Mr Pompeo and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar getting to know each other. Because we will have many things to do at later stage".

"The maximum benefits we can get out of this talk is what goes inside the hall and not what happens outside in terms of agreements," the source said.

Indian officials optimistic of US waiver on India-Russia defence deal: Indo-Russia defence ties to persist

New Delhi, Jun 25 On the eve of US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo's India visit beginning Tuesday late evening, sources remain optimistic that there could be a 'US waiver' vis-a-vis Indian deal with the Russians for the defence system.


Sources said here that the long standing defence relations between India and Russia cannot be wished away.


"The S-400 is an issue that has been discussed. We know that this matter is of some concern to the US. I cannot deal much about the US position on the issue, but at the same time, India has a long standing defence relationship with Russia which we cannot wish away," a source said here.
A US State Department official said last week that the US "urged all of our allies and partners, India included, to forego transactions with Russia that risk triggering the CAATSA sanctions".
But Indian source said: "The US legislation is very clear as to what circumstances a waiver can be given by the US administration. There are various pros and cons ...which we feel India meets. If you look at the issue from legal point of view, our understanding and assessment is that India fulfills those requirement".



The US administration thus can have 'enough flexibility' to give waiver in favour of India.

Hardly a week since Modi government took over for second term, a top US functionary Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs R. Clarke Cooper arrived India on June 6 and reportedly interacted with the Indian side on defence partnership and also take steps for "furthering opportunities for American industry" and push for $15 billion fighter jet deal.

The US-India bilateral defence trade has risen from virtually zero in 2008 to $15 billion.
From Indian point of view, it has been given to understand that the Indian Air Force is in urgent need of upgraded fighter jets but the Modi government had laid emphasis earlier to 'procure' the jets under its ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The Donald Trump administration is hopeful that the deal will prove to be “favourable” for the US.


US envoy to India Ken Juster also welcomed R Clarke Cooper to US Embassy in New Delhi earlier this month and said in a Twitter missive. "Good discussion on efforts to strengthen US-India defense ties and further support India’s role as a Major Defense Partner," Ambassador Juster wrote.


Indian officials say S-400 deal has been discussed with Russians almost for a decade now.


Sources sought to clarify that the US is "well aware" of the circumstances those have compelled to go for 6-400 missile defence system and "we have explained the rationale very well".


"The US is in fact well appreciative of Indian requirement....," the source said.




The S-400 Triumf long-range missile can hit targets up to 400 km, making it one of the world's most lethal surface-to-air missiles.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and other officials an reviewed defence acquisition matters.

No major pact on cards during Pompeo visit, but trip will boost Indo-US ties

New Delhi, Jun 25 When it comes to dealing with countries such as the United States, India should 'look beyond MoUs and pacts', a diplomatic source said here on the eve of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's visit to India.


"We should look beyond MoUs. The maximum benefits we can get out of this talk is what goes inside the hall and not what happens outside. Therefore, we should not look at Pompeo's visit to India - first since the re-election of the Modi government - not from the point of view of how many MoUs have been inked or otherwise," a diplomatic source said here.


India is definitely not approaching this visit eyeing towards MoUs and other things. "This is a visit about two ministers Mr Pompeo and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar getting to know each other. Because we will have many things to do at later stage".


Mr Pompeo is arriving late Tuesday night and during his stay will have talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar. His visit concludes on June 27.




The visit is expected to prepare ground for Modi-Donald Trump bilateral talks in Japan by month end at the sidelines of G20 Summit.


Prime Minister Modi and the US President Trump are likely have bilateral talks on June 28, the first day of the G20 Summit at Osaka in Japan.




The visit of Mr Pompeo, as indicated by the US would like to give a "jump-start" to a discussion on trade and to resolve longstanding differences and 'irritants' in the bilateral relationship.

Secretary Pompeo will talk specifically with his counterpart Dr Jaishankar whom the US administration considers "one of the visionaries behind the expansion of the US-India Strategic Partnership" about expanding security, energy, and space cooperation, among other things, an US official has said in Washington.

The US side is also expected to "assure" the Indian leadership that Washington have no plans to place caps on H-1B work.

"On H-1B, we attach great importance to the U.S.-India relationship. Indians have contributed under the H-1B program to the U.S. economy....There is a broad review of the H-1B program underway, but this review is not targeted at India. It’s completely separate from our ongoing discussions with India about the importance of ensuring better trade," the US official has said.


Incidentally, this will be first meeting between Dr Jaishankar and his American counterpart Pompeo.


The Indian officials have indicated that Pompeo-Jaishankar parleys on Wednesday in the capital is actually "just a beginning" to positive developments expected to further strengthen Indo-US ties in next five years.


"So, we are not seeing at this event as for signing MoUs etc...," the source said.


"We are looking at this visit as an useful input," the diplomatic source said.


The broad trajectory between two sides is 'very strong', the source pointed out.


Sources, however, maintained that wide range of issues are expected to figure at the talks.


The US administration's "ambition" is to do business with the new administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "to make headway, to jump-start a discussion on trade, and to move quickly to resolve what have been very longstanding differences and irritants in the bilateral relationship".

"....this is not something that’s going to be solved in one meeting, but being able to kickstart a serious process, a credible process, and a candid process is going to be critical," a senior US official has said.