News for 'External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson'

With Trudeau out, India seeks to mend ties with Canada

With Trudeau out, India seeks to mend ties with Canada

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

India on Friday said it hopes to rebuild ties with Canada based on 'mutual trust and sensitivity', blaming the downturn in the relations to the 'licence' that was given to the 'extremist and secessionist elements' in that country.

India flags baby Ariha's 'infringement of rights' in German custody

India flags baby Ariha's 'infringement of rights' in German custody

Rediff.com2 Jun 2023

The German authorities had taken custody of Ariha Shah on September 23, 2021, when she was seven months old, alleging that the parents harassed her.

Only link with J-K...: India on Pak Army chief's 'jugular vein' remark

Only link with J-K...: India on Pak Army chief's 'jugular vein' remark

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

India has strongly rejected Pakistan's claims on Kashmir, calling it a Union Territory and dismissing the Pakistan Army Chief's statement about it being the country's "jugular vein." India also rejected Pakistan's claim that Tahawwur Rana, a Mumbai terror attack accused, is a Canadian citizen and that it has nothing to do with him. India's External Affairs Ministry spokesperson stated that Pakistan's reputation as the "epicentre" of global terrorism will not diminish. Rana's extradition is a reminder that Pakistan needs to bring other perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attacks to justice, according to India.

Trump says lost India, Russia to 'darkest' China; New Delhi says...

Trump says lost India, Russia to 'darkest' China; New Delhi says...

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

The relations between New Delhi and Washington are on a downturn after Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to a whopping 50 per cent, including a 25 per cent additional duties for India's purchase of Russian crude oil.

MEA urges Indian students to follow US law amid detentions

MEA urges Indian students to follow US law amid detentions

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has asked Indian students in the US to comply with American laws following the detention of a postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University and the self-deportation of another student to Canada. The MEA spokesperson said that the two Indians did not reach out to Indian missions in the US for assistance. Badar Khan Suri, the postdoctoral fellow, was detained on charges of "actively spreading Hamas propaganda." Ranjani Srinivasan, a student at Columbia University, self-deported to Canada after her visa was revoked for allegedly "advocating for violence and terrorism" and involvement in activities supporting Hamas. The MEA spokesperson also said that India is keen to bolster educational ties with the US.

Will take steps to protect our interests: India on China's mega dam

Will take steps to protect our interests: India on China's mega dam

Rediff.com4 Jan 2025

India has expressed concerns over China's plan to build a mega dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, stating that it will continue to monitor and take necessary measures to protect its interests. New Delhi has urged Beijing to ensure that the interests of downstream states are not harmed by activities in upstream areas. The dam, estimated to cost USD 137 billion, has raised apprehensions about its impact on the ecological balance of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, through which the Brahmaputra flows. India has repeatedly expressed its concerns to China through diplomatic channels, highlighting the need for transparency and consultation with downstream countries.

Pakistan's ISI team in Bangladesh, India 'keeps a close watch'

Pakistan's ISI team in Bangladesh, India 'keeps a close watch'

Rediff.com25 Jan 2025

The visit to Dhaka by the Pakistani military officials came after a delegation of Bangladeshi military officials toured Pakistan and held meetings with the three service chiefs.

India defends Russia ties, hits out at NATO sanction threat

India defends Russia ties, hits out at NATO sanction threat

Rediff.com17 Jul 2025

India has cautioned against 'double standards' regarding its energy procurement from Russia, asserting that it is based on national interests and market dynamics, following a threat of secondary sanctions from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Attempting to avoid...: Vanuatu cancels Lalit Modi's passport

Attempting to avoid...: Vanuatu cancels Lalit Modi's passport

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has directed the Citizenship Commission to cancel the passport issued to former Indian Premier League (IPL) founder Lalit Modi, citing his attempt to avoid extradition. Modi had applied to surrender his Indian passport to the Indian High Commission in London, but the Vanuatu government stated that Interpol twice rejected India's request for an alert notice due to lack of evidence. The statement emphasized that holding a Vanuatu passport is a privilege, not a right, and applicants must seek citizenship for legitimate reasons, which does not include evading extradition.

Centre expects US to consider visa applications of Indian students

Centre expects US to consider visa applications of Indian students

Rediff.com29 May 2025

India on Thursday said it expects the United States to consider visa applications of Indian students on merit amid growing concerns over the Trump administration halting new student visa interviews.

Pakistan's nukes to be available for Saudi under new pact

Pakistan's nukes to be available for Saudi under new pact

Rediff.com19 Sep 2025

The entry of other Arab countries in the mutual defence deal between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is not ruled out, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said, adding that 'doors are not closed' for such developments.

Slumdog novelist Vikas Swarup is new MEA spokesperson

Slumdog novelist Vikas Swarup is new MEA spokesperson

Rediff.com26 Mar 2015

Vikas Swarup, whose debut novel was made into the Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire, has been appointed as spokesperson in the external affairs ministry.

No proof to link Modi to Nijjar plot: Trudeau govt

No proof to link Modi to Nijjar plot: Trudeau govt

Rediff.com22 Nov 2024

"The Government of Canada has not stated, nor is it aware of evidence, linking Prime Minister Modi, Minister Jaishankar, or NSA Doval to the serious criminal activity within Canada," the statement added.

India plays down Trump's 'dead economy' jibe, reaffirms strong US ties

India plays down Trump's 'dead economy' jibe, reaffirms strong US ties

Rediff.com1 Aug 2025

India responded to US President Donald Trump's criticism, emphasizing the strength and resilience of the India-US strategic partnership.

Will Buy Russian Oil: Sitharaman

Will Buy Russian Oil: Sitharaman

Rediff.com6 Sep 2025

New Delhi 'will have to take a call which supply source suits us the best,' the finance minister said, pointing out that crude oil accounts for the bulk of India's foreign exchange spend.

Concerning: Jaishankar on $21 million USAID row

Concerning: Jaishankar on $21 million USAID row

Rediff.com23 Feb 2025

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed concern over information regarding USAID funding in India, calling it "concerning" and hinting at potential "bad faith" activities. Jaishankar asserted that India is looking into the matter and that the country should know who is involved in such activities. He also emphasized the need to expand India's security definition in the digital age, highlighting the influence of technology and narratives on public perception. The statements come amid controversy surrounding USAID funding for certain activities in India, with the US President Donald Trump questioning the agency's funding of voter turnout efforts.

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump on Monday vowed to work towards a 'trusted' partnership with a focus on boosting India-US cooperation in areas of trade, energy and defence in their first phone conversation since the American leader's inauguration last week.

No impact on India from Brahmaputra dam, claims China

No impact on India from Brahmaputra dam, claims China

Rediff.com6 Jan 2025

China has reiterated its plan to build the world's largest dam over the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, near the Indian border. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has assured that the project, estimated to cost around USD 137 billion, will not have any negative impact on downstream countries, India and Bangladesh. The ministry has stated that the project has undergone rigorous scientific verification and will be conducive to disaster prevention and mitigation, as well as climate change response. India has expressed concerns about the dam, raising the issue during talks with the visiting US National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan. China has maintained that the project will not negatively affect the lower reaches and has committed to maintaining communication with downstream countries.

India, China reach new understandings on border management

India, China reach new understandings on border management

Rediff.com21 Aug 2025

India and China have reached new common understandings agreeing to conduct normalised management and control of the boundary during Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to New Delhi, Beijing said.

Look at your own record: India condemns Iran's Khamenei's 'suffering of Muslims' remark

Look at your own record: India condemns Iran's Khamenei's 'suffering of Muslims' remark

Rediff.com17 Sep 2024

The Iranian leader talked about what he described as "suffering" of Muslims in Gaza, Myanmar and India.

Dhaka's certain measures....: India on ending transshipment pact with B'desh

Dhaka's certain measures....: India on ending transshipment pact with B'desh

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

India has withdrawn the transhipment facility it extended to Bangladesh for exports to third countries, citing congestion at ports and airports. The decision comes after Bangladesh's interim government halted yarn imports from India and closed three land ports. The move has raised concerns about a downturn in India-Bangladesh relations following political instability and attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.

India fully withdraws soldiers from Maldives before deadline

India fully withdraws soldiers from Maldives before deadline

Rediff.com10 May 2024

The last batch of Indian soldiers stationed in the Maldives have been repatriated, confirmed Heena Waleed, President's Office Chief Spokesperson told Sun.mv news portal, without giving the number of Indian soldiers.

US military aircraft bringing back Indian migrants

US military aircraft bringing back Indian migrants

Rediff.com5 Feb 2025

The United States has deported a group of Indian migrants on a military transport aircraft, marking the first such deportation to India as part of President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration. The US embassy in New Delhi confirmed that Washington is tightening immigration laws and removing illegal migrants. The deportation comes as India and the US are finalizing details for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington in February. India has indicated its willingness to work with the US on addressing illegal immigration, and has said it will take back all Indians who have overstayed or are in the US without documentation.

UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit

UK condemns security breach during Jaishankar's visit

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

The UK has strongly condemned a security breach involving a pro-Khalistan extremist rushing towards External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's convoy in London. The incident took place as Jaishankar was leaving the Chatham House think tank on Wednesday evening. The protester was swiftly taken aside by officers of the Metropolitan Police, with no arrests being confirmed so far. The UK said such attempts to "intimidate, threaten, or disrupt" public events are "completely unacceptable". The incident comes after Jaishankar's talks with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, during which both leaders covered the entire gamut of bilateral ties, including the relaunched Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, regional and global issues. The MEA has condemned the security breach and the provocative activities of the "small group of separatists and extremists", calling on the UK to "live up to their diplomatic obligations".

India slams Canada over 'threatening' parade in Toronto

India slams Canada over 'threatening' parade in Toronto

Rediff.com6 May 2025

India has lodged a strong protest with Canada over the "threatening language" and "unacceptable imagery" targeting Indian leadership at a parade held in Toronto. The floats at the parade reportedly featured pro-Khalistan propaganda and imagery attacking Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India conveyed its concerns to the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi, calling on Canadian authorities to act against "anti-India elements" who are spreading hatred and advocating extremism and a separatist agenda. This incident comes days after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's victory in the general election, which was seen as an opportunity to repair India-Canada ties that had been strained under Justin Trudeau's leadership. The two countries have been grappling with strained relations since Trudeau's allegations in September 2023 of the "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Evacuated all citizens who wished to return from Syria: Govt

Evacuated all citizens who wished to return from Syria: Govt

Rediff.com14 Dec 2024

India has successfully evacuated all of its citizens who wished to return home from Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad's government by rebel forces. The evacuation process, which began on Tuesday, saw 77 Indian nationals brought back to safety. The Indian Embassy in Syria continues to function and is monitoring the situation closely, advocating for a peaceful and inclusive political solution.

India reiterates non-interference in Dalai Lama succession plan

India reiterates non-interference in Dalai Lama succession plan

Rediff.com4 Jul 2025

India has stated its neutral stance on religious matters following the Dalai Lama's announcement of his succession plan, which China has rejected. The statement comes as the Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, with China urging India to exercise caution on Tibet-related issues.

Act against Pakistan's terror ecosystem: India to Turkiye

Act against Pakistan's terror ecosystem: India to Turkiye

Rediff.com23 May 2025

India expects Turkiye to strongly urge Pakistan to end its support to cross-border terrorism, said ministry of external affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal during the weekly briefing on Thursday.

Tahawwur Rana to be brought to India in special flight on Thursday

Tahawwur Rana to be brought to India in special flight on Thursday

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

A multi-agency team has gone to the US and all paperwork and legal issues are being completed with US authorities to bring him to India, they said.

Canada snub? Modi to skip G7 summit amid strained ties with Ottawa

Canada snub? Modi to skip G7 summit amid strained ties with Ottawa

Rediff.com2 Jun 2025

It is learnt that Ottawa is yet to send an invitation to the Indian prime minister for the summit, but Modi, in any way, would have skipped it as such a visit would have required a lot of groundwork considering the current state of ties between the two sides, said the people cited above.

Willing to work with India on border issue, says Chinese military

Willing to work with India on border issue, says Chinese military

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

China's military has said it is willing to work with India to find a solution to the border issue, while also pushing for sound and stable defence ties. The statement comes after recent meetings between officials from both countries to normalize relations following a prolonged period of tension.

India calls US report on human rights 'deeply biased'

India calls US report on human rights 'deeply biased'

Rediff.com25 Apr 2024

India on Friday described a United States State Department report citing alleged incidents of human rights violations including in Manipur as 'deeply biased' and said it reflects a poor understanding of India and it attach no value to it.

Saudi Arabia steps in to de-escalate soaring India-Pakistan tensions

Saudi Arabia steps in to de-escalate soaring India-Pakistan tensions

Rediff.com10 May 2025

The Saudi statement came as tensions soared significantly, with Pakistan claiming that its three airbases were targeted by Indian missiles and drones early Saturday.

'Saw missiles in the sky': Indian students evacuated from Iran

'Saw missiles in the sky': Indian students evacuated from Iran

Rediff.com19 Jun 2025

"We saw missiles in the sky and heard bombs in our neighbourhood... We were petrified," said MBBS student Mir Khalif, his voice still trembling with fear, as he stepped out of the Delhi airport after being evacuated from war-hit Iran under Operation Sindhu.

Modi to attend G7 Summit in Canada after PM Carney's invite

Modi to attend G7 Summit in Canada after PM Carney's invite

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he will be attending the G7 Summit later this month in Canada and that he looked forward to meeting his newly elected Canadian counterpart Mark Carney.

China welcomes Modi to SCO Summit; calls meet a symbol of unity

China welcomes Modi to SCO Summit; calls meet a symbol of unity

Rediff.com8 Aug 2025

China welcomes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to the Tianjin Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), expressing hope that the event will be a 'gathering of solidarity, friendship and fruitful results'.

Absurd: India tears into OIC over Pahalgam terror statement

Absurd: India tears into OIC over Pahalgam terror statement

Rediff.com7 May 2025

India has strongly criticized the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its statement on the Pahalgam terror attack, calling it "absurd" and accusing Pakistan of manipulating the group to issue a self-serving statement. The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said the OIC's refusal to recognize the cross-border links to the attack was made at Pakistan's behest.

Yet to firm up modalities on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: MEA

Yet to firm up modalities on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: MEA

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that India and China have reached an understanding to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025. While an understanding has been reached, the modalities of the pilgrimage are yet to be firmed up. The Yatra has been suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak and non-renewal of Yatra arrangements by the Chinese side.

Modi reaffirms 'unwavering' support to Lankan Tamils

Modi reaffirms 'unwavering' support to Lankan Tamils

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed India's expectation to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake that Colombo will fulfill the aspirations of the Tamil community in the island nation and conduct provincial council elections. The issue was discussed during wide-ranging talks between Modi and Dissanayake. Modi also met with Tamil leaders from Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka, reaffirming India's commitment to supporting the community's well-being. The Tamil community has been advocating for the implementation of the 13th Amendment, which provides for devolution of power. Modi expressed hope that Sri Lanka will fully implement its constitution and conduct provincial council elections.

'Unwarranted': India rejects Washington Post report on Pannun plot

'Unwarranted': India rejects Washington Post report on Pannun plot

Rediff.com30 Apr 2024

A day after The Washington Post named an Indian official for allegedly plotting to eliminate Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, India on Tuesday said the report made 'unwarranted and unsubstantiated' imputations on a serious matter.