Safaath Ahmed, former spokesperson for Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, says 75 unarmed Indian military personnel deployed in Maldives were engaged in humanitarian work, rescue & medical ops.
The High Commissioner's MEA visit comes amid a diplomatic row triggered by derogatory social media remarks made by some Maldivian ministers on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Lakshadweep visit.
The UK PM Rishi Sunak cancelled a scheduled meeting with his Greek counterpart Kyriakos Mitsotakis after the latter called for the return of the Parthenon sculptures to Athens.
Greece has repeatedly asked British Museum to permanently return the 2,500-year-old sculptures that British diplomat Lord Elgin removed from Parthenon temple early 19th century.
New Delhi has made efforts to increase minister-level visits to Africa & Latin America, while also attempting to enlarge its strategic orbit to include new partnerships like Quad.
Canada has accused India of violating international law & Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations in its push for parity, which has resulted in withdrawal of 41 Canadian diplomats.
Financial Times report claims Ottawa and New Delhi are still in talks on how the 2 countries can reach 'parity' in diplomatic presence. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi declines comment.
As part of its update Sunday, Trudeau govt also referred to India’s suspension of visa services to Canadians. Comes amid a diplomatic row over the killing of a Sikh separatist.
Canada one of the largest source countries for foreign tourist arrivals in India. Govt’s decision to suspend visa services for Canadians came amid diplomatic row over Nijjar killing.
The BCCI decision has given new life to the lunatic fringe of the Hindu Right. It now has the confidence to force policy changes in accordance with its communal campaigns.
The latest comment comes as New Delhi and Washington have yet to sign a trade agreement. India’s purchase of Russian oil has reduced, but Moscow remains top source for crude.
If deal goes through, Greece will be 2nd foreign country to procure vehicle. Morocco was first; TATA Group has set up manufacturing unit there with minimum 30 percent indigenous content.
Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.
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