Narendra Modi in Myanmar highlights: We took big decisions because nation is bigger than politics for us, says PM

PM Modi focuses on infrastructure development

For us nation is bigger than politics, says PM Modi

Modi says he has decided to release 40 Myanmar fishermen lodged in Indian jails

PM Modi lauds External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj’s efforts

Our government has taken decisions on demonetisation and GST fearlessly, says Modi

Modi says India free from poverty, terrorism, corruption, communalism, casteism is being created

We are not merely reforming our country, we are transforming India, says PM Modi

Modi recalls freedom fighters who fought on Burmese soil

I’m facing a mini India here, says PM Modi

Modi begins his address to the Indian community by greeting people in Burmese, Tamil. The prime minister also recalls all the festivals Indians have been celebrating recently. “You represent thousands of years of shared culture, geography, aspirations. We don’t just share borders but also emotions,” says Modi.

PM Modi recalls Netaji Subash Chandra Bose’s Azad Hind Army in Burma

This is where Subhas Chandra Bose had said ‘Tum Mujhe khoon do, mai tumhe azaadi doonga’, says Modi.

Watch Narendra Modi addressing people at Thunwunna Stadium

Indians cheering before PM Modi’s address at Thunwunna Stadium

Narendra Modi will be addressing Indian community at Yangon shortly

India to aid in building hospitals and industrial training centres in Myanmar

PM Modi says India is proud to be a part of Myanmar temple’s restoration work

The modalities of India-Myanmar bus service has been worked out, says S Jaishankar

Along with physical connectivity, we have negotiated a land border crossing agreement, says Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar

Foreign secretary S Jaishankar says discussion in Myanmar focussed on development

Indians cheer for PM Modi at Yangon’s Thunwunna Stadium

Ananda Temple architecture shows Indian and Mon influences

PM Narendra Modi arrives at Yangon where he will be meeting Indian diaspora

New Delhi allocates $3 million for restoration of Anand Temple

The temple, one of the surviving masterpieces of the Mon architecture, is believed to have been built around 1105 by King Kyanzittha, one of the greatest Burmese monarchs.The temple’s architecture shows Mon and Indian influence.

The temple was first damaged in an earthquake in 1975, and then last year when a 6.8 magnitude quake shook Myanmar. India and Myanmar signed an agreement in 2010 to restore the Ananda Temple and New Delhi allocated $3 million to the project being carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).-  PTI (Read more here )

India is collaborating with Myanmar for the conservation and restoration of Anand Temple

More images coming in from Modi’s visit to Anand Temple in Bagan

Narendra Modi pays his respects at Ananda Temple

Here are key points where India will cooperate with Myanmar on defence

Modi lands in Bagan

Modi to address Indian diaspora in Myanmar soon

Modi’s press statement in Myanmar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nay Pyi Taw on Tuesday on a three-day visit to Myanmar amid a raging crisis involving Rohingyas in the country’s Rakhine state.

Modi held bilateral discussions with Myanmar’s state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, who is also the country’s foreign minister and Minister of President’s Office on Wednesday. Following the discussions, Modi gave a speech at the joint press statement with Suu Kyi. 

Modi leaves for Bagan from Nay Pyi Taw

Modi gifts Suu Kyi a rehashed version of her 1986 IIAS proposal

India urges stakeholders to preserve Myanmar’s unity

India said today that it shares Myanmar’s concerns over the violence in the Rakhine state and asked all stakeholders to preserve the country’s unity and territorial integrity, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi.

Modi’s first bilateral visit comes at a time when the Myanmarese government is facing international pressure over the 125,000 Rohingya refugees that have poured across the Bangladeshi border in just two weeks after Myanmar’s military crackdown in the Rakhine state.

The prime minister, at a joint press statement with Suu Kyi, asserted that India stands by Myanmar amid the challenges the country is facing. Modi and Suu Kyi held talks and discussed ways to further cement the bilateral relations. – PTI

Narendra Modi says India stands by country

Modi said that when it comes to the peace process or solving a problem, “We want all stake holders to work towards preserving Myanmar’s unity and territorial integrity.”

Suu Kyi, in her remarks, thanked India for taking a strong stand on the terror threat that Myanmar faced recently.

List of MoUs signed during Modi’s visit
 

India and Myanmar on Wednesday signed eleven agreements in a range of sectors, including one to strengthen democratic institutions in this country, to further build their multifaceted partnership. The following are the MoUs signed:

– Maritime Security Cooperation 

– Cultural Exchange Programme for the year 2017-2020

– Enhancing the Cooperation of the Upgradation of the Women’s Police Training Centre at Yamethin, Myanmar.

– Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and Myanmar Navy

– Technical Agreement for providing Coastal Surveillance System

– Cooperation in Medical Products Regulation (Between Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), Ministry Of Health and Family Welfare of the Republic of India and Food and Drugs (FDA), Ministry of Health and Sports of Myanmar on Cooperation in Medical Products Regulation)

– Cooperation in the field of Health and medicine

– Extension on MoU on establishment of MIIT

– Extension on MoU on establishment of India-Myanmar Center for Enhancement of IT-Skill

– In field of elections (between Election Commission of India and The Union Election Commission of Myanmar).

– Cooperation between Myanmar Press Council and the Press Council of India

Rise in construction of roads indicate a bright future for ties

Narendra Modi said that the rise in construction of roads and bridges, power links and connectivity indicate a bright future for India-Myanmar ties. Just like our development partnership, Myanmar’s efforts to ensure high quality education, healthcare and research is worthy of praise, he added.

By visiting Myanmar, Modi sent a message that he is not intimidated by ‘big brother’

What Modi probably has to lose is the wobbly friendship with the military regime and the hawkish General Min Aung Hlaing, commander-in-chief of Myanmar’s armed forces. By stopping over en route from the BRICS Summit in China where he and Xi Jinping played genteel footsies and little else in the thaw after the Doka La impasse Modi sent a message that he is not intimidated by big brother.

In the bigger picture context it is hugely indiscreet and tactless but if a display of Indian confidence is the yardstick well, China would certainly be miffed that this visit does not bode well for the present plastic cordiality.

Read the full opinion here

Amnesty urged Modi to reaffirm India’s commitment to Rohingyas

Narendra Modi shares concerns with Myanmar on Rakhine situation

India shared its concerns with Myanmar over the situation in the country’s Rakhine state, where the army has launched a crackdown on the Rohingyas, triggering a mass exodus.

“We share your concerns about the extremist violence in Rakhine state and violence against security forces and how innocent lives have been lost,” Narendra Modi said in a joint address to the media along with Aung San Suu Kyi following delegation-level talks.

“We hope that all stakeholders can together find a way out in which unity and territorial integrity of Myanmar is respected,” Modi said. “At the same time, we can have peace, justice, dignity and democratic values for all.” – IANS

India, Myanmar share a multi-faceted partnership, says MEA

Modi speaks on security concerns of the two countries

In the joint statement, Modi said, “We share your concerns about extremist violence in Rakhine state and violence against security forces and how innocent lives have been affected.”

Modi appreciates Myanmar’s hospitality

India to free 40 jailed Myanmari citizens

“Friends, I am happy to announce that we have given freedom to Myanmar by giving visa to its citizens. Citizens of Myanmar who wish to visit India will be given gratis visas, and 40 Myanmarese citizens in Indian jails will be released. We have also decided to free 40 Myanmari citizens jailed in India,” says Modi.

India, Myanmar issue joint statement

“Being the neighbour, in security, our interests are the same. It is necessary we safeguard our border for security and stability. In black money project, work has been completed. The road component work has started. And under our comprehensive partnership, we have been cooperating in high quality heath care.”

Narendra Modi meets Aung San Suu Kyi on Myanmar visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Myanmar comes amid a spike in ethnic violence with Rohingya Muslims in the Rakhine state. He is expected to raise the issue of the exodus of the ethnic Rohingyas into neighbouring countries.

Modi’s Myanmar schedule

This is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first bilateral visit to Myanmar. During the visit, according to Ministry of External Affairs, Modi will hold discussions with State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on matters of mutual interest and also call on President U Htin Kyaw.

Apart from his engagements in the capital city of Nay Pyi Taw, he will visit Yangon and Bagan. His visit will end on 7 September.

India, Myanmar exchange agreements

Visuals of Modi’s welcome in Myanmar

Modi, Suu Kyi hold delegation-level talks

Narendra Modi meets Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar laying landmines close to Bangladesh border, sources tell Reuters

Myanmar has been laying landmines across a section of its border with Bangladesh for the past three days, said two government sources in Dhaka, adding that the purpose may have been to prevent the return of Rohingya Muslims fleeing violence.

Bangladesh will on Wednesday formally lodge a protest against the laying of land mines so close to the border, said the sources who had direct knowledge of the situation but asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter.

An army crackdown triggered by an attack on 25 August by Rohingya insurgents on Myanmar security forces has led to the killing of at least 400 people and the exodus of nearly 125,000 Rohingya to neighbouring Bangladesh, leading to a major humanitarian crisis. — Reuters

Here are the gifts Narendra Modi presented to U Htin Kyaw

Updates begin for 6 September

A look at India-Myanmar’s growing vistas of partnership

India encourages Myanmar to find ways for socio-economic development

Ahead of Modi’s visit to Myanmar, India, which has maintained that there is no change in policy on illegal immigrants, has said that New Delhi would encourage the Myanmar government to “find ways of stimulating socio-economic development” in Rakhine, reported India Today .

“If there is active economic activity in the state, many of the problems will be at least reduced,” said Joint Secretary, Bangladesh and Myanmar in Ministry of External Affairs, Sripriya Ranganathan at a press briefing before Narendra Modi’s Myanmar visit. She said India was working in that direction.

Meanwhile, international pressure mounts on Aung San Suu Kyi over Rohingya crisis

Aung San Suu Kyi has come under pressure from countries with large Muslim populations including Bangladesh, Indonesia and Pakistan to halt violence against Rohingya Muslims after nearly 125,000 of them fled to Bangladesh.

Indonesian foreign minister Retno Marsudi was due in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, on Tuesday after meeting the Nobel peace laureate and army chief Min Aung Hlaing to urge that Myanmar halt the bloodshed.

“The security authorities need to immediately stop all forms of violence there and provide humanitarian assistance and development aid for the short and long term,” Retno said after her meetings in the Myanmar capital. – Reuters

Myanmar president Htin Kyaw welcomes Modi

Myanmar president Htin Kyaw welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, soon after he arrived in the country on his first bilateral visit. Modi reached Nay Pyi Taw on the final leg of his two-nation visit after attending the BRICS Summit in China.

‘India believes in reducing tensions through development efforts’

New Delhi believes the best way to reduce tension in Rakhine is through development efforts, such as the Kaladan transport project there, said Indian foreign ministry official Sripriya Ranganathan. “We are very confident that once that complete corridor is functional, there will be a positive impact on the situation in the state,” she told reporters.

Rohingya crisis may hit development of transport corridor

The violence in Myanmar could hit development of a transport corridor that begins in Rakhine, with the Indian-built port of Sittwe and includes road links to India’s remote North East, analysts said. “It’s going to be a very vexed and complex issue,” said Tridivesh Singh Maini, a New Delhi-based expert on ties with Myanmar.

“You need to play it very smartly. You need to make it clear that Rakhine violence has regional implications… but India will not get into saying, ‘This is how you should resolve it.’” – Reuters

In Pictures: Narendra Modi inspects the guard of honour

Narendra Modi’s visit seen as a step towards mending India-Myanmar ties

Myanmar, for its part has tried to follow a policy of preserving its independence from India and China. There has been a tendency in Myanmar to fear China while trying to cultivate friendship with India. This has changed with the actions of China as well as those of General Ne Win who imposed martial law in the country in 1962.

Modi’s visit is certainly a step in the right direction to mend Indo-Myanmar ties. He is scheduled to hold discussions with the holders of high office as he will call on State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Htin Kyaw. The bilateral visit should serve to give a boost to political and economic ties with a strategic eastern neighbour.

Narendra Modi inspects guard of honour with President Htin Kyaw

India-Myanmar taking steps to bolster trade

Besides normal trade, both sides have also taken steps to bolster trade across the land border. Bilateral trade has been growing steadily to reach $2178.44 million (2016-17), of which Indian exports amounted to $1111.19 million and Indian’s imports to $1067.25 million. India is the fifth largest trading partner of Myanmar but trade remains below potential.

A look at India-Myanmar bilateral relations

Narendra Modi meets Myanmar’s president Htin Kyaw

Meanwhile, India reiterates demand to send Rohingyas back

The Centre and the Assam government on Tuesday made it clear that Rohingya immigrants from Myanmar have to return to their native country. Speaking on the sidelines of the meeting of the North-East Democratic Alliance in the national capital, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said, “They (Rohingyas) are illegal immigrants in India. Deportation has to be through legal process.”

Rijiju said no force will however be used. “We are not going to use force to throw out anybody. Such image may be painted that we are very inhuman; we are not. In fact, no other country has accepted as much refugees as India,” he said.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh said the government was very clear that the Rohingyas should go back. – IANS

In Pictures: Modi inspects guard of honour at presidential palace

Narendra Modi given ceremonial welcome at presidential palace

A look at shared cultural ties between India and Myanmar

India and Myanmar share close cultural ties and a sense of deep kinship given India’s Buddhist heritage. Building on this shared heritage India is undertaking some key initiatives: Restoration of the Ananda Temple in Bagan and GOI donation of a 16 foot replica of the Sarnath Buddha Statue which has been installed at the premises of Shwedagon pagoda in Yangon.

Myanmar troupes and artistes have participated in South Asian and ASEAN cultural events in India. India has also responded to Myanmar’s interest in restoring and renovating two historic temples in Bodh Gaya built by Myanmar rulers King Mindon and King Baygyidaw.

After landing in Myanmar, Modi says he will join a ‘wide range of programmes’

Here is the list of agreements expected to be signed between India and Myanmar

1. Maritime cooperation

2. Health development cooperation

3. Conservation of quake-damaged pagodas at Bagan

Modi also hopes to convince Myanmar about its seriousness in strengthening ties as China keeps a close watch.

Myanmar a ‘key player’ of India’s Act East policy: Narendra Modi

Narendra Modi has called Myanmar a “key pillar” of India’s Act East Policy which aims to strengthen India’s economic and strategic ties with southeast Asian countries against a rising China.

Narendra Modi to visit Ananda Temple in Bagan city

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting the 1105 AD Ananda Temple which is another prominent Buddhist shrine in Myanmar. He will also visit the Martyrs Mausoleum which contains remains of Aung Sang after his assassination in 1947.

Prime minister hopes for closer cooperation between nations

The prime minister said both countries will review developments in bilateral ties with a focus on “extensive” programme of development cooperation and socio-economic assistance India is undertaking in Myanmar.

As India seeks to deepen ties, experts fear China may have already beaten her to punch

Experts say that when it comes to Myanmar, China has repeatedly beaten India to punch repeatedly and continues to do so. China regards Myanmar as a land bridge to the Indian Ocean China has also shielded Myanmar from western criticism in the UN, on the issue of Rohingya Muslims.

India is also attempting to counter China’s influence in other ways. India is developing a road which runs through Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar (BCIM), a  2,800 km-long corridor that starts from Kolkata and passes through Bangladesh and Myanmar before ending at Kunming in China.

Read entire analysis here

Modi arrives to a warm welcome in Myanmar

Modi arrives in Myanmar: Here is his itinerary for Wednesday

On Wednesday, Modi will hold bilateral discussions with Aung San Suu Kyi, following which a number of agreements are expected to be signed. During the course of the visit, Modi will also visit Bagan, a heritage city where the Archaeological Survey of India is involved in the restoration work of a temple and some pagodas, and Yangon, where he will interact with members of the Indian community.

In Pictures: PM Modi arrives in Myanmar

Narendra Modi’s community event to be held at Thuwunna Stadium

In an e-mail to the Indian community of Myanmar for the event to be held at Thuwunna Stadium, Prime Minister Modi said that it is “with great delight and enthusiasm” that he would begin his Myanmar visit. The event will be held on Wednesday evening.

‘Prime minister’s Myanmar visit has special significance’

India decides to help quake-damaged pagodas of Myanmar

The Union cabinet approved a project to conserve the earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan city of Myanmar. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise the pact will be signed between the two countries during Modi’s visit to the nation.

A government statement said that the decision will strengthen the country’s ties with Myanmar in the realms of “culture and religion” and will advertise India’s prowess in conservation and restoration arts.

In Pictures: Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda, where Modi will visit

In Yagon, the prime minister will visit the Shwedagon pagoda and will go to martyr’s mausoleum to pay tribute to General Aung San, the Burmese nationalist leader who was assassinated. General Aung is father of Suu Kyi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Myanmar

Economic importance: Bilateral trade between India and Myanmar growing steadily

In economic terms, the bilateral trade between the two countries is a little over $2 billion. There is significant scope of improvement to this number. Further, the official statistics don’t take into account the informal trade which takes place at the border. Once greater transparency comes in, the economic engagement will get a boost.

Strategic importance: Myanmar only ASEAN country to share border with India

Myanmar is the only country which can act as a land link between India and an entity which would be the sixth-largest economy in the world if it were a single nation. It can be India’s gateway to Southeast Asia and give an impetus to India’s Look East Policy.

There is also the 1,600 kilometre long border the two countries share. Myanmar is cheek by jowl with India’s Northeast states and is critical for maintaining stability and peace in North East India.

Bits from history: Modi visited Myanmar in 2014 to attend ASEAN-India summit

BRICS recap: India, China put behind Doka La, agree to move on

Putting behind the Doka La standoff, India and China on Tuesday agreed on a “forward-looking” approach in their ties and make more efforts, including strong cooperation between their security personnel, to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

In their first substantive meeting post the 73-day Doka La face-off, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese president Xi Jinping held “constructive” talks during which it was reaffirmed that maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas was a pre-requisite for the development of India-China relations. – PTI

Even as Myanmar faces international criticism, India expected to support Nay Pyi taw

India will continue to express its support to Myanmar because it is key to New Delhi’s strategic interests. Modi is not expected to change stance on the Rohingya issue in a bilateral visit, which India hopes, will give a boost to political and economic ties with a strategic eastern neighbour.

Read full analysis here

Meanwhile, Rohingyas continue to flee violence in Myanmar

At least 1,23,000 Rohingyas have crossed the border into Bangladesh fleeing violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, a UN official said on Tuesday. The influx of Rohingyas, who are denied citizenship by Myanmar and sparingly given refugee status by Bangladesh, had accelerated earlier on Tuesday.

Rohingya crisis, infrastructure projects to figure in Modi’s visit

The burning issue of the Rohingyas and India’s capacity building measures and infrastructure projects are expected to figure during Modi’s visit to Myanmar. “During the visit, we will review developments in our bilateral relations, especially the extensive programme of development cooperation and socio-economic assistance that India is undertaking in Myanmar, and explore new areas in which we can work together,” Modi said in a pre-departure statement.

“We will also look at strengthening our existing cooperation on security and counter-terrorism, trade and investment, skill development, infrastructure and energy, and culture,” he said.

BRICS recap: Modi calls for coordiated action on counter-terrorism

Before leaving for Myanmar for his first bilateral visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the BRICS summit in China and pitched for an organised and coordinated action on counter terrorism, as he suggested 10 commitments through which BRICS leadership for global transformation can be achieved.

Myanmar receives first consignment of diesel from India

The first consignment of high speed diesel from India reached Myanmar on 3 September, Parami Energy Group CEO Ken Tun said. Ken Tun told Mizzima News that his group is importing the diesel under a joint venture agreement with India’s Numaligarh Refineries or NRL.

China has been close to Myanmar

China has been steadily increasing its influence (both economic and political) in the country.  It is Myanmar’s largest trade partner, has investments in the country and has played a proactive role in bringing various armed groups to the negotiating table. This cooperation on ethnic issues has reaped economic dividends as Myanmar has shown interest in China’s One Belt One Road initiative.

Mynamar is key to India’s security interests in North East

There is also the 1,600 kilometre long border the two countries share. Myanmar is cheek by jowl with India’s Northeast states and is critical for maintaining stability and peace in Northeast India according to the Livemint report. Indeed, some Indian insurgent groups operate from Myanmar. Therefore Myanmar’s cooperation would go a long way in helping India deal with these insurgent groups.

Economic ties not impressive but there has been improvement

In economic terms, the bilateral trade between the two countries is a little over $2 billion. There is significant scope of improvement to this number according to The Economic Times. Further, the official statistics don’t take into account the informal trade which takes place at the border. Once greater transparency comes in, the economic engagement will get a boost.

Is Myamar India’s gateway to Thailand?

Should India manage to upgrade the Kalewa-Yargyi road segment to highway standard, while Myanmar develops the Yargyi-Monywa portion, it will greatly improve India’s connectivity and relationship with both Myanmar and Thailand.

Myanmar is only ASEAN country to border India

Myanmar is the only ASEAN country which shares a border with India. Therefore, it is the only country which can act as a land link between India and an entity which would be the sixth-largesteconomy in the world if it were a single nation.

Emotion connect with Myanmar, says Narendra Modi

​

Rakhine issue a grave concern, says MEA

On the exodus of Rohingya community, the MEA said, “The issue of the Rakhine state is a matter of great concern. There has been a prominent attack recently and a large no of people have lost their lives. We have reached out to Myanmar government after the attacks on what can be done.”

Economic investment will be discussed, says MEA

She said the Kaladan project and the trilateral high-way project will be discussed during the prime minister’s visit.

India would also convey to Myanmar about the kind of project it has on its priority list and whether it would like to partner with India in their execution. “We will be guided by Myanmar government in its choice of projects,” the MEA said.

India has an overall commitment of $1.75 billion for developmental programmes in Myanmar.

“Myanmar is a very very important partner in our Act East policy and neighbourhood first policy,” said MEA.

No misunderstanding with Myanmar over last year’s surgical strike

Asked about the Indian Army’s action last year along the India-Myanmar border, Ranganathan said there was no misunderstanding between the two countries over the issue.

“I think it is very well known that actions were carried out along the border. It is a difficult border. It is a border on which the exact location of the boundary sometimes may be difficult to make out.

“I do not think there is any misunderstanding between us and the Myanmar government on what we sought to do,” she said. Myanmar is one of India’s strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-kilometre-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur.

Modi’s itenarary in Yangon  

Modi will travel to Yangon where he will have a series of engagements including interaction with the Indian community.

In Yagon, the prime minister will visit the Shwedagon pagoda and will go to martyr’s mausoleum to pay tribute to General Aung San, the Burmese nationalist leader who was assassinated. General Aung is father of Suu Kyi.

Modi will visit a famous Hindu temple and shrine of Bahadur Shah Zafar.

Modi to visit heritage city of Bagan

Modi said he was looking forward to paying a visit to the famed heritage city of Bagan, where the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has done a “stellar work” in renovating the Ananda Temple.

The ASI will be undertaking further restoration work on a number of pagodas and murals that were damaged in an earthquake last year, he said.

Modi to meet Aung San Suu Kyi tomorrow

Modi is scheduled to call on Myanmar President Htin Kyaw who is also hosting a banquet for him later in the day. The Prime Minister will hold wide-ranging talks with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi tomorrow.

Narendra Modi to discuss security cooperation, Rohingya crisis in first bilateral visit to Myanmar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Myanmar on Tuesday on his first bilateral state visit during which both sides are expected to ink a number of agreements and deliberate on key issues including exodus of Rohingya community.

Ways to deepen security and defence cooperation, implementation of India-assisted development projects and the issue of cross border activities by certain insurgent groups along the India-Myanmar are likely to figure during Modi’s talks with leadership of the country during the three-day visit.

Modi, Xi hold ‘forward-looking’ talks, call for peace in border areas

Xi told Modi that the two countries should pursue “healthy, stable bilateral ties”, China’s state-run Xinhua news agency reported. China is willing to work with India on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence (Panchsheel), which were put forward by both the countries, to improve political mutual trust, promote mutually beneficial cooperation, and push Sino-India ties along the right track, Xi was quoted as saying.

After BRICS Summit, Modi leaves for Myanmar 

Narendra Modi calls for coordinated action on counter terrorism, cyber security

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday pitched for coordinated action on counter terrorism, cyber security and disaster management, as he suggested 10 ’noble commitments’ through which BRICS leadership in global transformation can be achieved.

Modi, while speaking at the ‘BRICS Emerging Markets and Developing Countries Dialogue’ organised by China on the sidelines of the 9th BRICS Summit as an outreach exercise, said India has a long tradition of partnerships with fellow developing countries, while pursuing its own aspirations for growth.

“Whatever we do, will impact the world substantially. So, it is our solemn duty to make a better world — brick by brick, or, through BRICS….,” Modi said.

Modi thanks Chinese hospitality, leaves for Myanmar 

Narendra Modi says BRICS is for peace and development

Held fruitful talks with Xi, says Modi

Forward looking and constructive meeting, says Jaishankar

“There was a forward-looking and constructive approach taken by both sides during the Modi-Xi meeting. The two leaders reaffirmed that it is in the interest of both India and China to have good relations,” Jaishankar said on the overall outcome of the meeting. 

Jaishankar said that while there are differences, they should not become disputes. “The two leaders also reaffirmed the understanding reached at Astana between Modi and Xi to not allow differences to become disputes,” Jaishankar added. 

“Peace and tranquility at the border areas is a prerequisite for fruitful relations between India and China,” Jaishankar said on the border issue between the countries.

Urging better communication between the military personnel of India and China, Jaishankar said, “The two leaders felt that there should be closer communication between the defence and security personnel of India and China.”

On counter-terrorism issue, which dominated the BRICS summit on Monday, Jaishankar said that they were not separately discussed during the bilateral meeting.

No briefing, only a few sound bytes

While there were speculation over a possible media briefing after the bilateral meeing, reports now suggest there will be no such thing. There will only be a few sound bytes by Foreign Secretary Jaishankar before he leaves. This is the last event before Modi leaves for Myanmar.

Need guidance on Panchasheel, says Xi

Xi Jinping is reported to have said, “India is a valuable partner. We seek guidance from India on the five principles of Panchasheel. India and China are world’s two largest economies in the world.” – News18

Modi, Xi hold first substantive bilateral meeting post-Doka La

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping today held their first substantive bilateral meeting after the Doka La standoff, which had put ties between the two countries under strain.

Modi, who attended the BRICS Emerging Markets and Developing Countries Dialogue earlier in the day, met Xi on the sidelines of the 9th BRICS Summit here.

The prime minister, accompanied by senior officials including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, met the Chinese leader just before his travel to Myanmar from this port city.

PTI

Xi hails Belt and Road at BRICS forum

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday hailed the Belt and Road project at a BRICS forum in Xiamen, saying that the initiative has received a good response.

Speaking at the Dialogue of Emerging Market and Developing Countries where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present, Xi said: “Four years ago, I put forward the idea of building a Silk Road Economic Belt and a 21st century Maritime Silk Road. The initiative received a warm response from the international community. In May this year, China hosted a successful Belt and Road forum for international cooperation.”

IANS

Modi congratulates China for successfully hosting BRICS

Watch: Video of bilateral talks between Xi and Modi

Who are with Modi in the meeting?

News18 reports that Narendra Modi is being accompanied by Foreign SecretaryS Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval.

Modi and Xi meeting is underway

Xiamen Declaration will go some way in dismantling terror, Pakistan-China friendship

The declaration will come as a major setback for Pakistan that will now find itself further isolated in the global community on the issue of terrorism. It happens to be the second time in a week that Pakistan has been rapped on its knuckles for its support to terrorists operating in the region. US president Donald Trump’s recently-announced policy on Afghanistan also sought to shame Pakistan on the issue. Now, the expression of concern over Pakistan-based terror groups at the BRICS Summit will work to double the diplomatic pressure on Pakistan.

Niharika Tagotra

Xi Jinping slams lack of international effort to combat climate change

Chinese president Xi Jinping on Tuesday warned that the world economy faces growing risks and uncertainties from countries turning inward on trade and resisting combating climate change, delivering an implicit rebuke to his American counterpart, Donald Trump.

Xi didn’t refer to the United States by name, although Trump has said trade pacts are a threat to American jobs and had decided to pull the United States out of the Paris agreement on climate change.

“Multilateral trade negotiations are having a difficult time. The implementation of the Paris agreement on climate change is encountering resistance,” Xi told leaders of emerging economies and developing countries.

Modi pitches for efforts to curb terrorism

Narendra Modi has pitched for organised and coordinated action on counter terrorism, cyber security and disaster management at the summit, PTI reported.

Modi at emerging nations’ conference

Our ’no strings attached’ cooperation model is driven purely by requirements of partner countries, PTI quoted the prime minister as saying at BRICS developing nations dialogue. Modi also suggested 10 noble commitments to be taken up by BRICS leadership for global transformation.

Ahead of meeting with Xi, Modi meets Egypt’s el-Sisi

Meeting between Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi begins

Trade, an important part of Indo-Sino ties, likely to be discussed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese president Xi Jinping will also also look at the trade and commerce aspect of the India-China relationship, News18 reported. The report also noted that Doka La may also feature in the discussions between the two leaders.

Doka La unlikely to feature in talks 

An Indian government functionary told The Indian Express on Tuesday that they would “try to bury the D-word.” The D-word stands for Doka La. The Indian Express quoted sources as saying that after a bitter experience, “it is time to move on."

Here is what prime minister said at the meeting 

Make international order more just and equitable: Xi

Chinese president Xi Jinping on Monday called on the BRICS countries to make the international order more just and equitable, asserting that many pressing global challenges cannot be effectively resolved without their participation.

Speaking at the opening of the plenary session at the BRICS Summit in Xiamen, Xi  was quoted by PTI as saying the five-nation grouping need to forge unity to jointly advance solutions for international peace and development.

“We need to make the international order more just and equitable. Our ever closer ties require that we five countries play more active in global governance. Without our participation, many pressing global challenges cannot be effectively resolved,” Xi told the gathering.

Watch: Modi speak at the emerging economies dialogue at BRICS

Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas, says Modi

Proactive approach is needed for development, says Modi

Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi asked BRICS to team up with the International Solar Alliance for mutual gains through solar energy and utilisation of solar power. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that changes can be brought about by BRICS’ proactive approach and co-ordination.

India must avoid drawing the wrong conclusions from China’s tactical concessions on LeT, JeM

It is important not to draw all the wrong inferences from Monday’s turn of events. As the news broke out, some Indian TV channels enthusiastically interpreted it as a case of ‘China dumping Pakistan’, some said it was a ‘resounding win’ after Doka La. Let’s be clear. The breakthrough that India achieved on Monday at BRICS is significant. It represents a softening of China’s stance on Pakistan-sponsored terror. But neither is it an unqualified ‘victory’ nor does it signal a dramatic change in Beijing’s Pakistan policy.

Modi seeks global co-operation on terrorism, cyber security and climate change

Modi hardsells sabka saath sabka vikas; pitches for closer co-operation with developing nations

Narendra Modi, while talking about co-operation with developing economies, hardselled India’s economic approach. Modi said that development is a key focus for India. He said his government is focussing on “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” 

While talking about a three-pronged approach to development , Modi spoke of India’s aim to bring banking to those whoa re unbanked through various mobile technology. 

Pitching India’s strong support for development of the South Asia region, Modi said that the South Asia satellite is an example of India’s commitment to the development of India and its neighbourhood. 

Talking about India’s long-standing partnership with Africa, Modi noted that India is a major partner of the countries in the continent and added that the African Development Bank chose India for its first meeting outside Africa. 

Just like on Monday, Modi also spoke of diigtisation and sustainable development for emerging economies.

Modi at BRICS Emerging Markets and Developing Countries Dialogue 

Several issues may be discussed during the bilateral meeting

News18 reported that a gamut of issues may be taken into consideration during the meetign with Narendra Modi and Xi Jinping. Some of the issues that may be discussed during the meeting are India’s concerns over CPEC transgressing Jammu and Kashmir, India’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese reluctance to ban Masood Azhar and its backing of  Pakistan despite terror concerns.

Modi’s meeting with Xi is may be qualitatively different

According to Zaka Jacob of CNN News18, China was under pressure due to its position as a host to come to a consensus on a joint declaration. According to his report, this helped India to push to add LeT and JeM as foreign terror outfits in the declaration. 

**"**China faced the same problem in Xiamen that India faced in Goa last year — pressure of being the host. As host, the onus is on China to find a consensual joint declaration that can be adopted. The host has to walk the extra mile. Therefore the host’s scope for taking extreme positions in these negotiations is crippled. Part of the reason why India couldn’t push through similar language in the Goa declaration was precisely because of this."

Narendra Modi wishes Indians on Teachers’ Day from China 

The first BRICS Summit was at Ekaterinburg in Russia

While Ekaterinaburg held the first summit in 2009, New Delhi held its first BRICS Summit in 2012. Modi has attended BRICS Summit at Fortezela, Ufa, Goa and Xiamen. 

Xi and Putin arrive at the venue

What is the New Development Bank?

Recap: Modi attended the welcome banquet on Monday

Recap: BRICS nations vow to utilise space for peaceful purposes

India and four other BRICS nations today pledged to abide by the principle of utilising outer space for peaceful purposes, PTI reported.The Xiamen Declaration, issued at the end of the BRICS Summit’s plenary session, said the member countries will also work together to promote the most effective use of fossil fuels and wider use of gas, hydro and nuclear power.

GST India’s biggest economic reform measure ever, says Narendra Modi

​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) introduced in July this year is the biggest economic reform ever in India.

“India is changing fast into one of the most open economies in the world today,” Modi said while addressing the BRICS Business Council meet in Xiamen as part of the 9th BRICS Summit.

“Foreign direct investment inflows are at an all-time high, rising by 40 percent,” he said.

​

Modi must raise Masood Azhar issue at BRICS, says Congress

The Congress on Monday said it hopes Prime Minister Narendra Modi will now take up the issue of declaration of Maulana Masood Azhar as an international terrorist as his outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed has already been declared a terrorist organisation by BRICS nations.

IANS reported that the party also said China did not have a moral or legal right now to stand in the way or to prevent the United Nations from declaring Azhar an international terrorist.

Narendra Modi arrives for a group photo at Xiamen conference centre

​

Leaders also attended a cultural event at BRICS Summit

The leaders also attended the opening ceremony of the BRICS Cultural Festival and Photo Exhibition and watched the trailer of “Where Has Time Gone”, the first film co-produced by the five countries. 

PTI

Xi asks Business Council, NDB to ensure more BRICS cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on the BRICS Business Council and the New Development Bank (NDB) to ensure greater cooperation among BRICS countries.

In his remarks during talks between the BRICS Business Council and BRICS leaders attending the ninth BRICS summit, Xi praised the achievements of the council and the NDB.

The Business Council comprising business organisations from all the five countries has done a lot in the fields of e-commerce, technical development, standard setting, and the experience sharing in the digital economy, PTI quoted XI as saying.

Modi and Xi to hold bilateral talks today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese president Xi Jinping will hold their first substantive bilateral meeting on Tuesday after the Doka La standoff, which had put ties between the two countries under strain.

According to external affairs ministry officials, Modi will meet Xi at 12.30 pm (10 am IST), the prime minister’s last official engagement before flying off to Myanmar on a bilateral visit.

PTI

Updates for 5 September 2017 begin

Narendra Modi, Xi Jinping to hold bilateral meeting at 10 am tomorrow

JeM, LeT included in joint declaration due to violent activities, says China

China on Monday said that Pakistan-based terrorist outfits like JeM, LeT and the Haqqani network have been included in the BRICS joint declaration due to concerns about their violent activities in the region .

Defending the move to include these terror groups for the first time in the BRICS joint declaration, foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said BRICS countries have “shown their concerns to the violent activities raised by these organisations”.

“These organisations are all sanctioned by the UN Security Council and have a significant impact for Afghanistan issue,” Geng told PTI in a written response to a strong reference in the BRICS countries about these terror groups.

Modi calls on BRICS to work closely with international solar alliance

Asserting that affordable and sustainable access to energy is crucial for the growth of the BRICS nations, Prime Minister Narendra today called on the member countries to work closely with the International Solar Alliance to strengthen the solar energy agenda.

“Renewable energy is particularly important on multiple counts. BRICS countries can work closely with International Solar Alliance (ISA) to strengthen the solar energy agenda. Our five countries have complementary skills and strengths to promote use of renewable and solar energy,” Modi said. The ISA was launched by India and France in November 2015 and aims to bring together a coalition of 121 countries for mutual gains through enhanced solar energy utilisation.

BRICS nations sign four pacts

To boost cooperation in different areas, including economy and trade, BRICS member states on Monday signed four agreements at the 9th Summit of the five-nation bloc here.

The four documents are: BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) Action Agenda on Economic and Trade Cooperation; BRICS Action Plan for Innovation Cooperation (2017-20); Strategic Framework of BRICS Customs Cooperation; and Memorandum of Understanding between the BRICS Business Council and the New Development Bank on Strategic Cooperation (NDB).

NDB is a multilateral development bank set up by BRICS.

China indicates Xi Jinping will meet Narendra Modi on sidelines; remains evasive about Doka La talks

China on Monday indicated that there will be a meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of on-going BRICS summit at Xiamen, but declined to say whether the Doka La issue will figure in their talks.

Modi, Putin discuss bilateral issues, security situation in Afghanistan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed ways for boosting bilateral trade and investment along with
the security situation in Afghanistan. 

“The two sides basically touched upon several aspects of the bilateral relationship. President Putin recalled prime minister’s visit to Russia earlier this year. And, he thanked the prime minister for high-level participation from India at the Eastern Economic Forum,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters at a briefing. 

He also said that during the Modi-Putin meeting several bilateral issues were discussed like the cooperation in the oil and natural gas sector.

BRICS leaders sign four agreements on mutual cooperation

China to provide $76 million for BRICS economic initiative

China will provide $76 million for a BRICS economic and technology cooperation plan and another $4 million to support the projects of the bloc’s New Development Bank, President Xi Jinping announced on Monday. Calling on the five nation grouping to forge unity to jointly advance solutions for international peace and development, Xi said the BRICS countries should make economic globalisation open and inclusive, and beneficial to all.

Xi said the grouping should endeavour to promote practical economic cooperation.

PM Modi offers to host summit on de-radicalisation and combating terror

In the BRICS declaration, the grouping deplored all terrorist attacks worldwide, including attacks in BRICS countries, and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever.

At a restricted session of the BRICS leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also articulated India’s position on the issue and offered to host a conference on de-radicalisation.

The BRICS also called upon all states to prevent financing of terrorist networks and terrorist actions from their territories.

Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Michel Temer discuss common global vision

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met Brazilian president Michel Temer and discussed a partnership based on a “common global vision”.

The two leaders met in this southeastern Chinese city of Xiamen on the sidelines of the ninth BRICS Summit.

Earlier, addressing the plenary session of the BRICS Summit, Modi said trade and economy were the foundations of the cooperation among BRICS – Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa.

PM Modi met Brazilian President Michel Temer on the sidelines of BRICS summit

Xiamen Declaration will go some way in dismantling terror, Pakistan-China friendship

At the BRICS Summit on Monday, India was able to secure a major diplomatic victory for itself after the member countries backed the UN resolution on terrorism, specifically naming Pakistan-based terror groups. 

This is also of vital strategic importance in two ways; first, Pakistan’s strategy of ‘death by a thousand cuts’ is now under an international spotlight, with its civilian and military government facing intense pressure to rein in militant groups.

Second, by getting a variety of countries at international summits (including Monday’s summit in Xiamen) to express concern about Pakistan-based terror outfits, India appears to have put the all-weather friendship between Pakistan and China under pressure. China, which is already facing an increasingly hostile international community because of its continued support to the North Korean regime, will now be under immense pressure to step back from providing any moral or diplomatic support to Pakistan’s terror groups.

Modi, Putin discuss trade, bilateral ties in Xiamen

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a bilateral meeting here on Monday with trade and investment, natural gas, tourism and youth exchanges featuring in their discussions.

The two leaders, who met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit here, “basically touched upon several aspects of the bilateral relationship”, Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, briefing reporters. 

Both leaders discussed several aspects of bilateral issues in sectors like cooperation in the natural gas and oil sector, Kumar added. Both sides also discussed how to promote bilateral trade and investment.

PM Modi attends opening ceremony of BRICS cultural fest

PM Modi lauds GST as India’s biggest economic reform

Narendra Modi addresses BRICS Business Council, vows India’s support to deepen cooperation

Watch: PM Modi hold bilateral meet with Russian premiere Vladimir Putin

Chinese president Xi Jinping suggests three mantras to deepen BRICS grouping’s mutual cooperation 

“I believe there are three important practices that should be carried forward,” Xi said in the Summit’s opening address. 

• First, treating each other as equals and seeking common ground while shelving differences. 
• Second, taking a results-oriented, innovative approach to make our cooperation benefit all. BRICS is not a talking shop, but a task force that gets things done.
• Third, developing ourselves to help others with the well-being of the world in our mind. Having gone through an arduous course of development, we BRICS countries share the agony of those people who are still caught in chaos and poverty

Why is it a good idea for BRICS nations to have a their own Credit Rating Agencies?

A BRICS CRA will be a counter to the western credit rating agency, which enjoy unchallanged market dominance. Entreprenuers in East and South East Asia often face impediments because of the hegimony enjoyed by CRA’s like Moody’s Fitch and S&P. These three western rating agencies hold over 90% of the sovereign ratings market now.

It was India, which had first mooted the idea of an independent CRA for the BRICS grouping at last year’s BRICS Summit in Goa, pinpointing the problems the current CRA market posed for the emerging market economies.

India bats for setting up Brics credit rating agency

Prime Minister Narendra Moday, today called for the creation of a BRICS rating agency to cater to financing needs of sovereign and corporate entities of developing countries.

“Our Central Banks must further strengthen their capabilities and promote cooperation between the Contingent Reserve Arrangement and the IMF (International Monetary Fund),” the prime minister said, urging early creation of the BRICS rating agency.

Watch: PM Modi’s statement at BRICS plenary session

Modi urges BRICS nations to collaborate to spur mutual growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought a strong partnership among BRICS nations to spur economic growth, saying that the bloc of emerging countries has contributed to the stability in a world “drifting towards uncertainty”.

The prime minister said a strong partnership among member nations on innovation and digital economy can help spur growth, promote transparency and support the sustainable development goals.

He also urged central banks of the member nations to further strengthen their capabilities and promote cooperation between the Contingent Reserve Arrangement of the grouping and the International Monetary Fund. The prime minister said BRICS countries can work closely with International Solar Alliance (ISA) launched by Indian and France in November 2015.

BRICS countries pledge to fight tax evasion

The BRICS Summit of five emerging economies on Monday pledged itself to creating a fair and modern global tax system that will address issues like tax evasion by shifting of profits to safe havens and to promote exchange of tax information that will seek to curb the practice.

The leaders said that they were keenly aware of the negative impact of corruption on sustainable development and declared their support to efforts to enhance BRICS and anti-corruption cooperation. 

The declaration said the leaders acknowledge that illegal flow of the proceeds of corruption impairs economic development and financial stability and support enhanced cooperation in asset recovery.

Recap: This time it is ‘BRICS plus’

Apart from the five members of the BRICS, this summit will also include five other nations as part of China’s outreach efforts. The five invitees to the BRICS Summit this time are: Egypt, Kenya, Tajikistan, Mexico and Thailand. India is also expect to hold talks with the leaders of each invitee nations on the sidelines of the summit.

BRICS presses for UN reforms  

“We recall the 2005 World Summit Outcome document and reaffirm the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, with a view to making it more representative, effective and efficient, and to increase the representation of the developing countries so that it can adequately respond to global challenges. China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN,” the BRICS Declaration said.

Recap: What the MEA said about terrorism 

Modi, Putin vow to boost cooperation in oil,natural gas sector

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian president Vladimir Putin and discussed ways for boosting bilateral trade and investment, especially in the oil and natural gas sector.

“The two sides basically touched upon several aspects of the bilateral relationship. President Putin recalled prime minister’s visit to Russia earlier this year. And, he thanked the prime minister for high-level participation from India at the Eastern Economic Forum,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters.

India-China bilateral meeting at 10 am on Tuesday: TV reports

BRICS Declaration condemns North Korea nuclear test

We strongly deplore the nuclear test conducted by the DPRK (official name of North Korea). We express deep concern over the ongoing tension and prolonged nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, and emphasize that it should only be settled through peaceful means and direct dialogue of all the parties concerned.

BRICS is a totally disparate grouping

The BRICS, which accounts for nearly 29 percent of global GDP at purchasing power parity, shares less in common than other blocs. The Group of Seven (G7) are all rich, industrialised nations with broadly similar democratic politics. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Gulf Cooperation Council are composed of countries that at least live shoulder-to-shoulder. In everything from history to demographics, politics, and resource dependence, the BRICS vary enormously. The huge differences have rightly seen the acronym panned as a “bloody ridiculous investment concept”.

China-India spat signals last hurrah for BRICS?

A Reuters report notes that the future of the BRICS looks toxic. it adds that China and India stepped back from a border dispute just in time for a summit of the bloc of large emerging market countries, which helps Xi Jinping to keep up appearances ahead of a crucial political reshuffle. But the unusual tensions between the two Asian giants suggests the three-day gathering underway could be a last hurrah.

BRICS declaration condemns acts of terrorism

“We deplore all terrorist attacks worldwide, including attacks in BRICS countries, and condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever and stress that there can be no justification whatsoever for any act of terrorism. We reaffirm that those responsible for committing, organizing, or supporting terrorist acts must be held accountable,” the Xiamen Declaration says.

BRICS backs UN resolution on terrorism

“We call for expeditious finalization and adoption of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) by UNGA,” BRICS Declaration states.

Putin and Modi further strategic ties: MEA

Joint declaration slams terror outfits, urges unity against terrorism

In a declaration, the BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) also called upon all nations to adopt a comprehensive approach in combating terrorism including countering radicalisation and blocking terror financing sources.

The declaration also mentioned terror groups like the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement and Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, Tehrik-i-Taliban and Hizb ut-Tahrir.

“We call for expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) by the United Nations General Assembly,” the BRICS said.

The BRICS also called upon the international community to establish a “genuinely broad” international counter-terrorism coalition and support the UN’s central coordinating role in this regard.

“We stress that the fight against terrorism must be conducted in accordance with international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, international refugee and humanitarian law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Point number 48 nails terror outfits 

“We, in this regard, express concern on the security situation in the region and violence caused by the Taliban, ISIL/DAISH, Al-Qaida and its affiliates including Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, TTP and Hizb ut-Tahrir,” the fourty-eighth point of the Xiamen declaration said.

MEA says BRICS leaders call for joint action against terror

MEA says that for the first time, a specific list has been issued by the BRICS pointing out various terror outfits affecting security in member states. MEA also said that the BRICS leaders have also have agreed to implement UNSC resolution for combating terrorism. Preeti Saran, Secretary, East, said that Modi also discussed counter-terrorism at the Summit. The BRICS leaders also said that there is a need for joint action against terrorism, Saran said.

Full text: Xi Jinping urges nations to ‘speak with one voice’

Five major emerging economies opened BRICS summit on Monday to map out their future course, with host Chinese president Xi Jinping calling on them to play a bigger role in world affairs.

“We need to make the international order more just and equitable,” he told the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa in his opening address. Xi said they should “speak with one voice” to jointly present their solutions to global problems and safeguard their common interests.

He also called on his BRICS partners to oppose a growing tide of protectionism across the world.

The leaders are holding their annual summit in the southeastern Chinese city of Xiamen through Tuesday.

Full Text: Joint Declaration of the BRICS leaders at Xiamen

Press briefing of MEA in Xiamen

Leaders have adopted Xiamen Declaration. This has picked up on the positive impetus from Goa. Prime Minister gave a very future looking blueprint for BRICS next decade. “Our leaders of our countries have contributed to emergence of BRICS. It has spurt world growth and also driven transformation,” Modi said. Modi spoke of taking affirmative action in global governance. Modi also spoke on reforms in United Nations Security Council. He also proposed an idea of counter radicalisation conference in India.

Modi’s meeting with Putin

Touched upon several aspect of bilateral ties. Recalled Modi’s visit. Putin thanked Modi for participation in Eastern Economic Forum. Both deliberated on economic ties and co-operation on oil and gas sector.

Indian officials to brief media shortly

BRICS condemns terrorism 

​BRICS voices concern on security situation in the region and violence by terror groups like the Taliban, al-Qaeda and Pakistan-based LeT and JeM. — PTI