News for 'Foreign Ministers'

Jaishankar and Portuguese Foreign Minister Discuss West Asia Conflict

Jaishankar and Portuguese Foreign Minister Discuss West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke with his Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel to discuss the West Asia conflict and explore ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

Pakistan to Host Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye Foreign Ministers for West Asia Peace Talks

Pakistan to Host Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye Foreign Ministers for West Asia Peace Talks

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Pakistan is set to host a quadrilateral summit of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye to discuss the ongoing conflict in West Asia and explore avenues for peace negotiations.

Is Khamenei dead or alive? Foreign minister answers

Is Khamenei dead or alive? Foreign minister answers

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Following US and Israeli strikes in Iran, reports have surfaced questioning the wellbeing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, prompting a swift denial from Iranian officials and condemnation of the military action.

Italian PM Meloni to ban burqas, niqabs in schools; cap foreign students

Italian PM Meloni to ban burqas, niqabs in schools; cap foreign students

Rediff.com2 days ago

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced a series of significant educational reforms, including a proposed ban on face coverings like burqas and niqabs in schools, a legal cap on the number of foreign students per classroom, and a requirement for parents of foreign students with integration issues to learn Italian. Meloni stated these measures aim to ensure immigrants learn Italian language and culture, and respect national rules, emphasising gender equality as non-negotiable. Additionally, she revealed plans to scrap the multiple-choice entrance test for medical school admissions.

Afghan foreign minister in India, to meet Jaishankar, Doval

Afghan foreign minister in India, to meet Jaishankar, Doval

Rediff.com9 Oct 2025

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi arrived in New Delhi for a six-day visit, marking the first high-level trip from Kabul since the Taliban's takeover. He is scheduled to meet with Indian officials to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues.

Indian Strike Damaged Nur Khan Base, Admits Pakistan's Foreign Minister

Indian Strike Damaged Nur Khan Base, Admits Pakistan's Foreign Minister

Rediff.com29 Dec 2025

The Pakistani government has once again found itself embarrassed on the world stage, now acknowledging the impact of India's strategic and precision strikes on its military installation during the escalation in May, following Operation Sindoor, which came in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has seized Rs 3.45 crore in cash during searches against Karnataka PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, his family, and associates in a FEMA investigation. The probe concerns alleged undisclosed overseas investments, cross-border business links, and collection of bribes from PWD contractors, with the minister denying wrongdoing and alleging political targeting.

After Nepal's U-turn on foreign aid, India rushes rescue team

After Nepal's U-turn on foreign aid, India rushes rescue team

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

An 11-member Indian team, including medical personnel and tunnel rescue experts, has arrived in Nepal to assist with rescue operations following devastating flash floods that killed over 500 people and left nearly 2,000 missing. Nepal has requested international aid for specialised tasks and Bailey bridges to restore transport services in the affected areas.

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran

Rediff.com7 days ago

Seven former Australian cricket captains, including Greg Chappell and Steve Waugh, have urged Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to address the welfare of imprisoned former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Their appeal focuses on humanitarian treatment and due process, not the legal or political aspects of his case, citing concerns about his deteriorating health.

BRICS Summit: What's On Modi-Xi Agenda?

BRICS Summit: What's On Modi-Xi Agenda?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Ahead of Xi Jinping's visit, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held extensive talks in Beijing on August 25 on the boundary issue and reached an eight-point consensus.

Finance Minister Calls For Robust AI Safeguards In Finance Sector

Finance Minister Calls For Robust AI Safeguards In Finance Sector

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for enhanced accountability and safeguards for artificial intelligence, particularly as it integrates into critical sectors like finance. Speaking at the Global Fintech Fest, she highlighted the dual nature of AI, capable of accelerating transactions but also amplifying fraud and cyberattacks. Sitharaman stressed the need for human and institutional responsibility in AI-driven decisions, urging regulators and companies to scrutinise high-risk AI applications. She also proposed a federated industry platform for Indian tech companies to navigate international regulations and ensure tax compliance globally.

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Xi arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, talks with Modi at 6 pm

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping's first visit to India in seven years for the BRICS Summit and bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address crucial aspects of India-China relations, including trade, investment, and persistent border tensions.

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.

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

Will Pakistan fight Iran to defend Saudi?

Will Pakistan fight Iran to defend Saudi?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning that the Makkah Defence Alliance, a newly formed pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, stands ready to activate its collective defence provisions in response to escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.

Top Chinese diplomat, touted to be next foreign minister, detained

Top Chinese diplomat, touted to be next foreign minister, detained

Rediff.com10 Aug 2025

The 61-year-old senior diplomat was taken away for questioning in late July after returning to Beijing from an overseas work trip, the paper reported, quoting people familiar with the matter.

India, China ties must follow 'three mutuals', Modi tells Xi

India, China ties must follow 'three mutuals', Modi tells Xi

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasized that both nations must show sensitivity to each other's core issues and be guided by mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest. Modi highlighted the critical importance of peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control for the development of India-China relations, while also addressing concerns regarding Taiwan and Tibet.

Baloch militants are 'foreign-sponsored proxies', says Pak army chief

Baloch militants are 'foreign-sponsored proxies', says Pak army chief

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has described militants operating in Balochistan as 'foreign-sponsored proxies' actively working to destabilise the province and obstruct its development.

Iran, UAE agree to 'put past behind' after talks at BRICS

Iran, UAE agree to 'put past behind' after talks at BRICS

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian concluded his visit to India for the 18th BRICS Summit, announcing that Iran and the UAE agreed to move past previous tensions. This diplomatic breakthrough occurred during talks with Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince on the summit sidelines. Pezeshkian also met with PM Modi to discuss bilateral ties and West Asia developments, with Modi emphasising dialogue for regional peace. The BRICS summit adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, calling for global governance reforms and de-escalation in West Asia.

India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, urges regional stability

India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, urges regional stability

Rediff.com7 days ago

India has expressed serious concern over Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia's civilian infrastructure and economic assets, stating that such actions threaten regional stability and freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the issue with his Saudi counterpart. India also condemned the targeting of commercial shipping after an Indian national went missing following an attack on a Panama-flagged ship off Oman.

India, China armies hold crucial talks on LAC in Arunachal sector

India, China armies hold crucial talks on LAC in Arunachal sector

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Indian and Chinese military officials have held corps commander-level talks in Arunachal Pradesh to review the Line of Actual Control (LAC) situation, following recent Special Representative discussions aimed at de-escalating border tensions and fostering bilateral ties.

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

How BRICS evolved from an acronym to a major global powerhouse

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

This article details the quarter-century journey of BRICS, from its inception as an economic acronym by a Goldman Sachs economist to its current status as an expanded eleven-member international bloc. It highlights its growth, key historical moments, and the significance of its upcoming summit, particularly with Iran's renewed importance in discussions.

Iran won't bow to 'bullying': Pezeshkian's message to US, Israel from Delhi

Iran won't bow to 'bullying': Pezeshkian's message to US, Israel from Delhi

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that Iran will not succumb to "bullying" from the US and Israel, vowing to protect national interests amidst escalating West Asian hostilities. During his visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit, Pezeshkian also discussed strengthening bilateral ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and advocated for local currencies in BRICS trade, positioning Iran as a strategic energy and transport partner.

Foreign Firms' Investment Intensity in India Falls Since FY20: EAC-PM

Foreign Firms' Investment Intensity in India Falls Since FY20: EAC-PM

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

A working paper by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) reveals a continuous decline in the rate at which foreign-owned firms invest in fixed assets in India since the FY20 peak, contrasting with a steady increase from Indian business groups.

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rahul hugs Cong leader, calls it Modi's foreign policy. Then comes Meloni jibe

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-RSS, labelling them a "bunch of jokers" with no understanding of India, and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy as merely "hugging leaders." He also claimed the RSS has become an instrument of large capital, serving Adani and Ambani, and vowed that the Congress would keep pressure on the government until Modi and Shah resign. The BJP hit back, calling Gandhi immature and out of depth.

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Modi-Xi BRICS meeting: Beginning of a new era for India-China ties?

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached a crucial consensus during the BRICS summit, agreeing that China and India should be partners, not rivals. The leaders pledged to maintain peace and tranquility in border areas, deepen cooperation, and support each other in multilateral forums, aiming to strengthen the Global South and promote a multipolar world order.

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

UK sanctions West Bank settlers, Israel shuts British consulate

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The UK has announced a comprehensive sanctions regime against Israeli settlements in the West Bank, banning the import of goods and targeting entities involved in settlement expansion. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband condemned the "ethnic cleansing of Palestinians" and highlighted international support for the UK's stance, while Israel reacted strongly with counter-measures.

How much did Modi's 23 foreign trips in 2025 cost? Here's the breakdown

How much did Modi's 23 foreign trips in 2025 cost? Here's the breakdown

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Over Rs 180 crore was incurred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to 23 countries including the US, the UK, France, China and Japan in 2025, according to data shared by the government.

Suspense over Xi's BRICS visit continues as Doval meets Chinese VP Han, FM Wang

Suspense over Xi's BRICS visit continues as Doval meets Chinese VP Han, FM Wang

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval engaged in Special Representatives talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, focusing on the India-China boundary question and enhancing bilateral relations. These crucial discussions precede Chinese President Xi Jinping's anticipated visit to New Delhi for the BRICS summit, aiming to address persistent border differences and stabilise ties strained by past conflicts like the Galwan Valley clash.

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

'Will properly handle differences': China as Xi visits India

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping is in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit, his first to India in nearly seven years, comes amidst efforts to normalise India-China relations following the 2020 Eastern Ladakh standoff and is expected to have significant implications for bilateral ties and BRICS cooperation.

What Did Modi Say To Make Putin, Xi Smile?

What Did Modi Say To Make Putin, Xi Smile?

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

The 18th BRICS Summit got underway in New Delhi with leaders of partner countries gathering in the capital to discuss the changing global economic and geopolitical landscape.

What If Sindoor Resumes? Will Saudis, Turks Rush To Help Pakistan?

What If Sindoor Resumes? Will Saudis, Turks Rush To Help Pakistan?

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

A question has been raised whether the Mecca Pact will have a negative impact on our doctrine that the Operation Sindoor has only been suspended and that it would be resumed if Pakistan engages in terrorism in the future. But the Mecca Pact only speaks of aggression, not defence against terrorism, points out Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

Xi announces US visit, Trump plans rare airport welcome

Xi announces US visit, Trump plans rare airport welcome

Rediff.com1 days ago

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit the United States from September 23 to 25 for summit talks with US President Donald Trump, with discussions expected to cover critical economic and trade issues, including AI, and the recently signed US sanctions law targeting countries buying Russian oil and gas.

Trump willing to meet Iranian delegation in New York if....

Trump willing to meet Iranian delegation in New York if....

Rediff.com10 hours ago

US President Donald Trump has expressed interest to his advisers in setting up a meeting with Iranian officials present in New York for the UN General Assembly's 81st session, "if the conditions are right."

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Who Derailed Tarique Rahman's India Visit?

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Who is running the show in Dhaka? This kind of flip-flop, culminating in a last-minute decision to skip a maiden visit, can happen only when the remote is in the hands of one of the competing lobbies within the BNP -- one that appears determined to play a game of chess with India.

Modi-Xi Meet: Why The Road Ahead Is Tough

Modi-Xi Meet: Why The Road Ahead Is Tough

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

'Xi is conveying that China is a pre-eminent power, and India should modulate its actions or approaches accordingly.'

New military hotlines: India-China talks yield 8-point consensus

New military hotlines: India-China talks yield 8-point consensus

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

India and China have agreed to advance discussions on an "Early and Substantial Harvest" of boundary delimitation and border management during the 25th round of Special Representatives talks between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. Both sides reached an eight-point consensus, committing to the 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for Settlement. Key outcomes include enhancing border management, improving understanding of the Line of Actual Control, establishing new meeting points and hotlines, and continuing cooperation on trans-border rivers and pilgrimage.

Wars, tariffs test BRICS unity as leaders gather in Delhi

Wars, tariffs test BRICS unity as leaders gather in Delhi

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The BRICS summit in New Delhi brings together leaders from major emerging economies to address global challenges like trade disputes, geopolitical upheavals, and the economic impact of conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. India, as chair, aims to position BRICS as an economic growth engine, focusing on the Global South's food, energy, and supply chain security. The summit also highlights the grouping's expansion and its growing influence in global governance.

Misri holds key talks in Beijing, reviews India-China relations

Misri holds key talks in Beijing, reviews India-China relations

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held extensive discussions with China's Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying and other senior officials in Beijing, reviewing bilateral relations, trade, cultural exchanges, and emphasising peace and tranquillity in border areas. His visit aims to advance the vision of both nations as development partners.

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

Rediff.com10 hours ago

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India desires positive, constructive, and forward-looking ties with Bangladesh and is ready to discuss all bilateral issues. This comes amidst queries regarding the state of relations following a change in Bangladesh's government and upcoming international engagements.