News for 'External Affairs'

Was Jagdeep Dhankhar 'insulted'? JP Nadda says...

Was Jagdeep Dhankhar 'insulted'? JP Nadda says...

Rediff.com22 Jul 2025

Union minister J P Nadda clarified that the Vice President's office was informed about his and Kiren Rijiju's inability to attend a Business Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting convened by Jagdeep Dhankhar before his resignation. This statement follows questions raised by a Congress leader regarding their absence.

India, Canada unveil roadmap to revive ties

India, Canada unveil roadmap to revive ties

Rediff.com13 Oct 2025

India and Canada have unveiled a roadmap to boost cooperation in trade, critical minerals, and energy, signaling efforts to rebuild strained relations following the killing of a Sikh separatist in 2023. Discussions include addressing concerns over pro-Khalistan elements and pursuing a balanced partnership.

India, China review LAC situation, set stage for high-level talks

India, China review LAC situation, set stage for high-level talks

Rediff.com24 Jul 2025

India and China reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and prepared for the next Special Representatives' dialogue on the boundary question.

5 Indians kidnapped in Mali as Al Qaeda-linked outfit closes in

5 Indians kidnapped in Mali as Al Qaeda-linked outfit closes in

Rediff.com10 Nov 2025

The embassy of India in Bamako said it was "aware of the unfortunate incident" involving the kidnapping of five Indian nationals in Mali on November 6 and is working closely with local authorities and the concerned company to ensure their "safe release as quickly as possible."

Putin's India visit: Rahul takes 'insecurity' jab at Centre

Putin's India visit: Rahul takes 'insecurity' jab at Centre

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleges the government discourages foreign dignitaries from meeting the Leader of the Opposition due to insecurity, breaking established traditions.

India, UAE seal defence pact, set $200 bn trade target

India, UAE seal defence pact, set $200 bn trade target

Rediff.com20 Jan 2026

Under the defence partnership, India and the UAE are eyeing defence industrial collaboration and cooperation in advanced technologies, cyberspace training, special operations, interoperability of their militaries and counter terrorism.

Widow of slain Maharashtra minister seeks SIT probe

Widow of slain Maharashtra minister seeks SIT probe

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

The widow of former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique, who was murdered last year, has petitioned the Bombay High Court for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the case, alleging police have failed to apprehend the real culprits.

Gujarat woman held for links to global cyber slavery racket

Gujarat woman held for links to global cyber slavery racket

Rediff.com26 Nov 2025

Gujarat police arrest a woman allegedly involved in trafficking job aspirants to Myanmar and Thailand for cyber slavery. The accused lured people with promises of high-paying jobs and forced them to work for international cyber crime syndicates.

India's NCDEX eyes 20% stake in Sri Lanka's first commodity exchange

India's NCDEX eyes 20% stake in Sri Lanka's first commodity exchange

Rediff.com17 Nov 2025

India's leading agriculture commodity exchange, the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX), has decided to acquire around a 20 per cent stake in a new commodities and financial derivatives exchange being set up in Sri Lanka, subject to regulatory and governmental approvals. The move aims to deepen NCDEX's footprint in the financial ecosystem of its neighbouring country.

India rebuts Trump aide's 'Modi didn't call' claim; says...

India rebuts Trump aide's 'Modi didn't call' claim; says...

Rediff.com10 Jan 2026

'Incidentally, Prime Minister (Modi) and President Trump have also spoken on the phone on eight occasions during 2025, covering different aspects of our wide-ranging partnership'

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.

US expands online vetting for all H-1B, H-4 applicants

US expands online vetting for all H-1B, H-4 applicants

Rediff.com22 Dec 2025

The United States Embassy in India on Monday said starting December 15, the United States has 'expanded' online presence reviews to all H-1B and H-4 applicants as part of standard visa screening, and this vetting is being conducted globally for 'all applicants of all nationalities' for these two visa categories.

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.

How Tahawwur Rana Was Handed Over

How Tahawwur Rana Was Handed Over

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

Glimpses of when US marshals in the central district of California transferred custody of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana to representatives from India's ministry of external affairs on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

Antwerp court clears fugitive jeweller Mehul Choksi's extradition

Antwerp court clears fugitive jeweller Mehul Choksi's extradition

Rediff.com18 Oct 2025

A court in Antwerp on Friday cleared the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, noting that his arrest by the Belgian authorities on India's request was valid, officials in the know of the development said.

Can India and China rebuild trust after Galwan?

Can India and China rebuild trust after Galwan?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2025

India and China are expected to discuss new confidence-building measures for durable peace and tranquillity along their contested border during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's two-day visit to India. The visit is seen as an effort to rebuild relations after the Galwan Valley clashes.

'Contemptible': India hits back at Pak's Waziristan attack claim

'Contemptible': India hits back at Pak's Waziristan attack claim

Rediff.com29 Jun 2025

At least 13 security personnel were killed and 24 injured in the attack on Saturday.

Jaishankar, Canada FM hold talks for 1st time; discuss ties

Jaishankar, Canada FM hold talks for 1st time; discuss ties

Rediff.com26 May 2025

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand held their first phone conversation, focusing on strengthening bilateral economic ties and advancing shared priorities. The call comes amid efforts to repair relations between the two countries, which had been strained under the previous Canadian government. Both ministers expressed their commitment to improving ties and working together on areas of mutual interest. The conversation follows a period of tensions stemming from allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a Sikh activist on Canadian soil.

This War May End US Military Presence In Middle East

This War May End US Military Presence In Middle East

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

'The entire US ecosystem built over decades at the bases in the Gulf region, especially the UAE, costing trillions of dollars have been decimated, dealing a mortal blow to the US Central Command's war capability,' points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

China claims it mediated India-Pakistan tensions in May

China claims it mediated India-Pakistan tensions in May

Rediff.com30 Dec 2025

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China mediated tensions between India and Pakistan, a claim disputed by India which maintains that the matter was resolved bilaterally.

'Depressed' IFS officer dies by suicide

'Depressed' IFS officer dies by suicide

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

An Indian Foreign Services (IFS) officer, identified as Jitendra Rawat, died by suicide by jumping from the fourth floor of a building in the Chanakyapuri area of Delhi. Police confirmed the death and said no foul play was suspected. Sources said Rawat was undergoing treatment for depression and his mother was staying with him. His wife and children are staying in Dehradun.

Cyclone Ditwah: India steps up relief ops in Sri Lanka; toll rises to 212

Cyclone Ditwah: India steps up relief ops in Sri Lanka; toll rises to 212

Rediff.com30 Nov 2025

Sri Lanka continues relief and rescue efforts with India's assistance after Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread devastation, killing over 190 people and affecting nearly a million.

Hypocrisy, says India as Canada censors media outlet over Jaishankar's presser

Hypocrisy, says India as Canada censors media outlet over Jaishankar's presser

Rediff.com7 Nov 2024

"We were surprised. It looks strange to us. But nonetheless, what I say is that these are actions which yet again highlight the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech," the external affairs ministry spokesman said.

Trump's H1B Diktat Fuels Anxiety For Indians

Trump's H1B Diktat Fuels Anxiety For Indians

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

Social media feeds and immigration forums lit up with questions from workers and families who feared they might be stranded abroad, unable to return to their jobs or reunite with loved ones.

India readies for key diplomatic week: Wang in Delhi, Jaishankar in Moscow

India readies for key diplomatic week: Wang in Delhi, Jaishankar in Moscow

Rediff.com13 Aug 2025

Wang is travelling to India days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned trip to the Chinese city of Tianjin to attend the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Taliban foreign minister to visit India as UNSC relaxes ban

Taliban foreign minister to visit India as UNSC relaxes ban

Rediff.com3 Oct 2025

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is expected to visit India next week, marking the first high-level trip from Kabul since the Taliban's rise to power. The visit follows a temporary exemption to a UN travel ban and is expected to enhance India's relations with the Taliban government.

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.

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.

Indian-origin man's death exposes hospital bed crunch in Canada

Indian-origin man's death exposes hospital bed crunch in Canada

Rediff.com27 Dec 2025

The wife of an Indian-origin man who died after waiting over eight hours for treatment at a Canadian hospital is seeking accountability. The man, Prashant Sreekumar, died of suspected cardiac arrest after a prolonged wait, raising concerns about hospital bed shortages and potential negligence.

100 crore on this side won't watch silently if...., Suvendu warns B'desh

100 crore on this side won't watch silently if...., Suvendu warns B'desh

Rediff.com27 Dec 2025

Protests continue in Kolkata against attacks on minority Hindus in Bangladesh. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari threatens a large-scale protest if the attacks are not stopped.

Zero tolerance for terror, no nuclear blackmail: Jaishankar in Germany

Zero tolerance for terror, no nuclear blackmail: Jaishankar in Germany

Rediff.com24 May 2025

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has asserted that India has zero tolerance for terrorism and will never give in to nuclear blackmail, emphasizing that New Delhi will deal with Pakistan purely bilaterally. He made these remarks during a joint press conference with his German counterpart in Berlin, where he also highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between India and Germany, emphasizing the need for a free trade agreement between the two nations.

US Finally Acts Against Pahalgam Terror Group

US Finally Acts Against Pahalgam Terror Group

Rediff.com18 Jul 2025

'Another demonstration of strong India-USA counter-terrorism cooperation. Appreciate the Department of State for listing The Resistance Front (TRF) as a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.'

At UNSC, India calls for 'pragmatic engagement' with Taliban

At UNSC, India calls for 'pragmatic engagement' with Taliban

Rediff.com11 Dec 2025

India told the UN Security Council that it calls for a pragmatic engagement with the Taliban, underlining that a focus on only punitive measures will ensure a 'business as usual' approach.

What Canada Can Do To Revive India Relationship

What Canada Can Do To Revive India Relationship

Rediff.com3 Nov 2025

For Canada, important steps towards containing domestic elements that fuel pro-Khalistan sentiments can go a long way in signalling trust positively with regard to security and sovereignty, point out Harsh V Pant and Vivek Mishra.

'Taliban Was Never Anti-India'

'Taliban Was Never Anti-India'

Rediff.com17 Oct 2025

'Pakistan is uncomfortable with the Indian presence in Afghanistan. They want the Taliban to ensure that there is no Indian presence in Afghanistan.'

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.

Unilateral bullying...: China to India amid Trump tariff war

Unilateral bullying...: China to India amid Trump tariff war

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that it is imperative for the two sides to view each other as partners and opportunities rather than rivals or threats, and invest their valuable resources in development and revitalisation.

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

India briefs foreign envoys on Pahalgam attack for 2nd straight day

Rediff.com26 Apr 2025

India briefed envoys of around 45 nations on the Pahalgam terror attack and its link to cross-border terrorism. The envoys were briefed in two batches by senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). India also announced punitive measures against Pakistan, including expulsion of Pakistani military attaches, suspension of the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 and immediate shutting down of the Attari land-transit post. Pakistan responded by shutting its airspace to all Indian airlines and suspending trade with New Delhi.

If India wants to be treated as a strategic ally of US...: Trump official

If India wants to be treated as a strategic ally of US...: Trump official

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

Notably, US President Donald Trump and his administration have continuously targeted India over its purchase of Russian crude oil. India, on the other hand, has always maintained that India's purchases are based on its domestic needs and economic security.

President Murmu to attend Pope Francis' funeral in Vatican City

President Murmu to attend Pope Francis' funeral in Vatican City

Rediff.com25 Apr 2025

President Droupadi Murmu will attend the state funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City this week, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Murmu will pay a two-day visit to Vatican City beginning Friday, offering condolences on behalf of the government and people of India. She will pay homage to Pope Francis by laying a wreath at Basilica of Saint Peter on Friday and attend the funeral Mass at Saint Peter's Square on April 26.