BILATERAL ISSUES
a. BAHRAIN
1. Visit of Minister of State E. Ahamed to Bahrain, New Delhi, 4 June 2013.
Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed will pay an official visit to Bahrain on 4-5 June 2013. During his two day visit to the Kingdom, Ahamed will be discussing the welfare of the Indian community and matters of mutual interest. He will be received by the Minister of Labour and is scheduled to call on various high dignitaries during the visit.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi

b. EGYPT
2. 1st Indo-Egypt Dialogue of Think tanks, Cairo, 6 June 2013.
The American University in Cairo in coordination with the Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi will host the 1st India-Egypt dialogue: A conference on development challenges in India and Egypt on 9-10 June at the Oriental Hall, AUC Tahrir Campus. The event will be the first occasion for think tanks from the two countries to meet and discuss a number of issues of common interest. The Egyptian side will be represented by the School for Global Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP), AUC while the Observer Research Foundation, a premier think tank based in New Delhi, will represent the Indian side. The sessions will be held from 930hours to 1500hours on the first day and 930 hours to 1415 hours on the second day.

The dialogue will be held over four sessions, which include a discussion of developments in the Middle East and North Africa, development challenges in both countries, the role of the media in political evolution, and the next steps in reviving Indo-Egyptian partnership. The opening session will addressed by Ambassador of India Navdeep Suri and Ambassador Nabil Fahmy, Dean of GAPP.

The speakers from the Egyptian side will include Dr. Emad Shahin, Dr. Khaled Amin, and Dr. Moataz Abdel Fattah from GAPP, and Dr. Mustafa al-Fiki, former foreign policy advisor to the President. From the Indian side, Ambassador Swashpawan Singh, former Indian Ambassador to the UN in Geneva, strategic expert Dr. C. Raja Mohan, media personality Suhasini Haider, and Ashok Kumar will be the keynote speakers.

The conference is being facilitated by the Embassy of India, Cairo. For more information, contact Abu Mathen George, Third Secretary (Press and Information), Embassy of India, 37, Talaat Harb, Cairo. (info@indembcairo.com).
Source: Embassy of India, Cairo

3. Urgent Notice, Cairo, 26 June 2013.
The Consular Wing of the Embassy of India at 37 Talaat Harb Street, Downtown & the Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture at 23 Talaat Harb Street, Downtown will be closed on 30 June 2013. However, the Chancery at 5 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek will remain open & can be contacted at 02-27360051 and 02-27360052
Source: Embassy of India, Cairo

c. IRAN
4. PM congratulates President-elect Rowhani of Iran, New Delhi, 19 June 2013.
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has congratulated President Hasssan Rowhani of Iran on his election. The Prime Minister in his congratulatory message said India and Iran enjoy deep historical and civilizational links, which have provided a strong foundation for our broad-based and mutually beneficial relationship. He said we look forward to strengthening this relationship further and harnessing its enormous potential in the coming years.
Source: Prime Minister of India, New Delhi

d. IRAQ
5. Visit of External Affairs Minister to Iraq (June 19-20, 2013), New Delhi, 16 June 2013.
External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid will be paying an official visit to Baghdad from 19-20 June 2013 at the invitation of the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Iraq, Hoshiyar Zebari.

This is the first high-level official visit from India to Iraq since 2003. At the level of External Affairs Minister, the last visit was of External Affairs Minister I.K Gujral in 1990 in connection with the evacuation of Indians in the wake of Gulf war.

During this visit, the External Affairs Minister will hold discussions with Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. He is also expected to call on the leadership of Iraq, including Prime Minister, Nouri al-Maliki and Deputy Prime Minister, Hussain Ibrahim Saleh al-Shahristani, among others.

India and Iraq enjoy time-tested, warm and friendly ties underpinned by close people to people contact and growing cooperation in different fields including hydrocarbons, water resources, education, healthcare, project exports etc. Iraq has now emerged as India’s second largest crude oil supplier. India remains committed to support the ongoing post-war reconstruction and development efforts in Iraq.

The External Affairs Minister’s forthcoming visit is expected to add an impetus to our bilateral relations and elevate our ties to a higher level for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries.
Source: Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi

6. Opening Statement by External Affairs Minister at the Joint Press Conference with Hoshyar Zebari, Foreign Minister of Iraq, Baghdad, 20 June 2013.
Your Excellency Mr. Hoshiyar Zebari,
Distinguished Members of the Iraqi delegation,
Friends from the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen

I am delighted to be in Iraq, a country with which India shares a strong historical, cultural and spiritual connect. I thank Excellency Minister Zebari for this kind invitation to visit Iraq. Though long overdue, this visit was among my highest priorities. We hope to continue the momentum generated by my visit.

Our cordial and friendly relations with Iraq are deep-rooted in history, underpinned by close people-to-people contacts. Our ties go back to the great Mesopotamian civilization. Thousands of Indians undertake annual pilgrimage to the Holy Shrines of Najaf and Karbala.

I and Minister Zebari held fruitful discussions covering various aspects of our bilateral relations including political, trade and economic, cultural, visa & consular and people-to-people contact. We further identified water resources, agriculture, medicare, education, pharmaceuticals and IT, etc., as areas of future cooperation. We also exchanged views on a number of regional and multilateral issues of mutual concern and interest. We will continue our discussions over Lunch. I extended an invitation to Minister Zerbari to visit India at mutually convenient dates.

The 17th Joint Commission Meeting between our two countries to be held on 8-9th July, for which our Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas is visiting Baghdad, will further discuss ways to consolidate and cement all aspects of our mutually beneficial ties.

Earlier today, I called on Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki and extended an invitation from our Prime Minister for him to visit India. We are eagerly looking forward to receive the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Iraq in India later this year. We believe that his visit would lay the foundation for elevating our ties to a much higher level.

During my meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister, Hussein Shahristani, we discussed ways to strengthen our economic engagement and partnership in the field of hydrocarbon sector, including through investments in on-going and upcoming projects. We agreed to ensure that this buyer-seller relationship graduates into a strategic partnership, through joint ventures; partnership in strategic reserves storage facility being built up in India; and investments in new and existing refineries and fertilizers plants.

I also called on Ussama al Nujaifi, Chairman of the Council of Representatives, who visited India in December last year with a delegation of distinguished members of the Council of Representatives. During that visit, we agreed that our two democracies would endeavour to further strengthen the parliamentary linkages and share best practices. My meeting with Nujaifi has aimed at further continuing this process.

India as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, views Iraq as a reliable partner in our energy security. Iraq has now become the second largest supplier of crude to India with over 20 billion US Dollars of oil imports by us in 2012-13. This oil-interdependence will transform our relationship to strategic one. Our oil import would finance the reconstruction process in Iraq.

I believe India and Iraq are well placed to take advantage of our close and historical relations for the mutual benefit of our two people. I am confident that through the existing good will, our partnership would only flourish and find new avenues for growth.

May I conclude by thanking His Excellency, Minister Zebari for the warm reception and kind hospitality extended to me and my delegation. Thank you
Source: Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi

e. KUWAIT
7. Helpline established by Embassy of India, Kuwait, 12 June 2013.
All The Embassy has been in regular contact with local authorities regarding the ongoing checking of expatriates. The Embassy has also conveyed to them the concerns, fears and apprehensions of the community in this regard. The authorities in Kuwait have conveyed that strict instructions have been issued to ensure that there is no harassment or improper treatment of expatriates by those undertaking checking. They have also said that should there be any complaint, the same could be conveyed at the following (as amended):
Operations Department, Ministry of Interior, Kuwait, Fax: 22435580, Tel: 24768146/25200334

The Embassy would like to request Indian expatriates to ensure that they abide by all local laws, rules and regulations regarding Residency, traffic and other matters. It would be prudent to always carry Civil ID and other relevant documents such as Driving License, etc. In case, an Indian expatriate encounters any improper treatment during checking, it may be conveyed immediately with full details and contact particulars to the Embassy at the following:
Phone No: 67623639, E-Mail ID: consularhelp@indembkwt.org
These contact details are exclusively for the above-mentioned purpose only.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

8. India Tourism promotion event organized, Kuwait, 12 June 2013.
The Embassy of India, Kuwait, in association with India Tourism, Dubai, organized an “INCREDIBLE INDIA” evening on 11 June 2013 at Hotel Crowne Plaza to promote tourism to India. It was inaugurated by the Ambassador of India to Kuwait, Satish C. Mehta. Air India, Jet Airways, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways and Oman Air, which are operating flights to India from Kuwait took part in the event. Several representatives of Indian tour and travel agencies, medical tourism, hotel groups from India and their representatives in the region – Travel Designer, Tamarind Tours, TVB Pharmacies, Indo-Asia Tours, Trial Blazer Tours, Vythiri Village, Punarnava Group, RP Group of Hotels & Resorts, Go Air, SOTC, Cox & King, Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Company, and Indian Heritage, a local handicrafts company, also participated in the event. The event was attended by more than 90 representatives from tour and travel operators and media fraternity of Kuwait.

In his Address, the Ambassador spoke of the close India-Kuwait bilateral relations and the deep bond of friendship and understanding which has been nurtured and nourished by the peoples of the two countries. He underscored that earlier the travel by people of the two countries was driven by necessity such as trade, work, education and medical treatment but now we would like to add tourism as a new dimension to this relationship. He highlighted the various facets of India tourism – diversity of landscapes, the majestic Himalayas, backwaters of Kerala, breathtaking beaches in Goa, Kerala, and Orissa, hill stations, palace tourism, luxury trains, incredible wild life, bird sanctuaries, Indian heritage sites, adventure tourism, including river rafting, trekking and mountaineering, medical tourism, etc. He also spoke about the shopping experience in India as it has a wide variety of alluring products, including gems and jewellery, silks, shawls, carpets, handicrafts, carvings, wood-works, leather goods, etc.

A presentation on India Tourism was made by Sudhir Kumar of India Tourism. His deliberations included developments in India’s tourism Industry, its growth ever since the concept of ‘Incredible India’ was conceived. He said that tourism sector was among the faster growing sectors of the economy and in 2012 over 6.65 million foreign tourists visited India.

Kumar deliberated in detail on a variety of fascinating tourism products of India, which, inter alia, included flora and fauna, wild life, historical monuments, heritage sites, hotels, including heritage hotels, palatial hotels, beaches, luxury trains, backwaters, adventure tourism, including river rafting, mountaineering, heli-skiing, medical tourism, wellness centre, etc. He also highlighted that India has something to offer for people of all ages and has something for liking of one and all. India is so vast; it is difficult to explore it all in one lifetime. He also exhorted the guests from Kuwait’s tourism industry who attended the event to market India as much they can.

Brief presentations were also made by other participants. Ajay Sinha, Manager Air India, spoke about their activities, particularly the introduction of dreamliner by Air India. Mohd. Ashraf of Vythiri Village in his presentation mentioned about the facilities they offer in Kerala. Dr. Ajumal of Punarnava, an Ayurvedic treatment centre and resort, mentioned about their four centres in Cochin and the wide range of medical facilities offered by them. Shone Abdul Hakeem of RP Group gave presentation about five star hotel facilities and resorts offered by his group.

This was followed by a question-answer session.
A variety of Indian handicrafts were put on display by Indian Heritage, Kuwait. Of the participating Airlines – Air India, Jet Airways, Air Arabia, Gulf Air, Etihad Airways, Oman Airways took part in the raffle draw by offering one air ticket each for Kuwait-India-Kuwait sector, which were handed over by the Ambassador and Airline representatives to the winners from amongst the guests representing tourism industry and media.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

9. Ambassador met Sheikh Ahmad Hamoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior, Kuwait, 19 June 2013.
The Ambassador of India to Kuwait, Satish C. Mehta met with Sheikh Ahmad Hamoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior, Kuwait on 13 June 2013 and discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and matters of common interest.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

10. Issue of online visa by the Embassy of India, Kuwait, 14 June 2013.
Foreigners requiring Visas for India need to apply it online w.e.f. 16 June 2013. Applicants may log on to the Public portal at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. After successful online submission, the hard copy, so generated, has to be signed by the applicant and submitted with supporting documents in accordance with the type of visa along with the applicable fee in cash at any of the two outsource centres at Sharq or Fahaheel.

It is essential that applicants fill in their personal details as exactly available in their passports. Mismatch of any of the personal details would lead to non-acceptance of the application. Fees once paid are non-refundable. All children would have to obtain separate visa on their respective passports.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

11. Meeting of Community leaders with Ambassador of India, 16 June 2013.
The Ambassador of India Satish C. Mehta held a meeting on 13 June 2013, with about 35 prominent representatives of Indian community in Kuwait from various parts of India to discuss concerns about ongoing checking by the authorities in Kuwait.

During the meeting he briefed the community leaders about the efforts being made by the Embassy of India in this regard. He also informed them that senior Kuwaiti authorities have assured that the Indian community is not being targeted and that the drive is against illegal expatriates and law- breakers. A question-answer session was also held during the meeting and a number of doubts, apprehensions and fears cleared.

The Ambassador also informed the community leaders that the Kuwait authorities have conveyed strict instructions to ensure that there is no harassment or improper treatment of the expatriates by those undertaking checking. The Embassy has also set up a helpline exclusively for the Indian expatriates to intimate to the Embassy about any improper treatment during checking. The Ambassador urged Community members to abide by Kuwaiti laws, rules and regulations. He assured the Community members that the Embassy is doing everything possible for them.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

12. Meeting of Company Representatives with Ambassador of India, 25 June 2013.
The Ambassador of India Satish C. Mehta held a meeting on 24 June 2013, with Human Resource Managers and Representatives of about 20 Companies employing Indian labourers in large number to discuss concerns about ongoing checking by the Kuwaiti authorities.

The Ambassador briefed the Company Representatives about the efforts made by the Embassy of India to address the apprehension and concerns of the Indian community. Details of the help lines of Ministry of Interior and the Embassy were given. A free exchange of views and an interactive question-answer session was held during the meeting which led to clarification of a number of doubts and apprehensions. During the session a few useful suggestions emerged for all companies to follow. The Ambassador urged the Company Representatives to disseminate the correct perspective to their Indian employees. He also advised the Company Representatives to set up their own English and Arabic help lines for the benefit of Indian employees in their companies.

The Ambassador urged the Company Representatives to convey to the Indian workforce to abide by the Kuwaiti laws, rules and regulations and carry Civil ID and other relevant documents such as Driving License etc.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

13. Kuwait Foreign minister receives invitation to visit India, Kuwait, 27 June 2013.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah received Indian ambassador to Kuwait Satish C. Mehta who handed the minister an invitation from the Indian foreign minister to visit India.

The two sides discussed meeting bilateral ties, regional and international issues of common concern.

The meeting was attended by the director of the minister bureau, Ambassador Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah.
Source: Embassy of India, Kuwait

f. LIBYA
14. Ambassador Anil Trigunayat's meeting with Usama Siala, Minister of Telecommunications of State of Libya, Tripoli, 6 June 2013.
Anil Trigunayat, Ambassador of India to Libya called on Usama Siala, Minister of Communications and Informatics to discuss possible areas of cooperation in the information technology sector and development of relevant tools for capacity building and it training.

Minister briefed the Ambassador about the major initiatives in the IT and Communications sector undertaken by his Ministry. He also acknowledged India’s distinct advantage and achievements in the IT sector highlighting that there were several possibilities for cooperation especially in software development, IT training and Libyan capacity building and Technology Parks.

Ambassador provided the details of various IT training programmes and scholarships being offered by India to the Libyans. Indian companies like NIIT and Aptech would be happy to work together with Libyan agencies for IT training in Libya itself as per the local curriculum and requirement. He further assured Government of India’s full support to the Libyan initiatives in this regard. Ambassador also requested the intervention of the Minister to reactivate the Pan African e-network Initiative node that was launched by Government of India since this will immediately be of benefit to Libyans in the area of tele-medicine, tele-education and e-governance. Minister appreciated this initiative and assured to provide all assistance to have the project reactivated. The two also emphasized on the need for cooperation in ensuring Cyber Security.

Ambassador also extended an invitation for Libyan Government and companies to participate in the India Soft exhibition slated for November 2013 in India.
Source: Embassy of India, Tripoli

g. QATAR
15. Global R&D Summit 2013 – Destination India, New Delhi, 19 June 2013.
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, India’s oldest and largest apex trade and industry body at national level, in partnership with Department of Science and Technology, Government of India will be organizing a 2-day international Research and Development (R&D) conference and exhibition titled “Global R&D Summit 2013 – Destination India” at The Ashok, New Delhi on 25-26 July 2013.  The event will be a magnanimous milieu of local and global institutions, academia and industry that constitutes the R&D ecosystem.  The summit will be accompanied by a concurrent exhibition to showcase innovative and successful R&D projects, programmes and initiatives in the country and abroad.

Information regarding specific aspects of this global event can be accessed from FICCI website: www.ficci.com.  Queries can also be directed to Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi – 110 001 (Tel: 0091-11-2273-8760 (Ext. 43) & Fax: 0091-11-2332 0714 & 2372 1504).
Source: Embassy of India, Doha

16. Statement by Official Spokesperson in response to a question on the opening of the Taliban Office in Qatar, New Delhi, 21 June 2013.
In response to a media query on the opening on the Taliban Office in Qatar the Official Spokesperson said:
"We have followed developments relating to the opening of an office of the Taliban in Qatar and statements made by the representatives of that office and others. These statements reflect some confusion about the name of the Qatar office, its structure, its political and legal status, and its objectives. We have also seen the reaction of the Government of Afghanistan to these developments.

Our position is clear. Government of India has always called for a broad-based Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled reconciliation process, within the framework of the Afghan Constitution and the internationally accepted red lines. Such a process would necessarily recognize the centrality of the Government of Afghanistan in the process, and involve all sections of the Afghan society, as also the insurgent groups, including the Taliban, who wish to join the mainstream.

The reconciliation process should not seek to create equivalence between an internationally recognized Government of Afghanistan and insurgent groups, confer legitimacy to insurgent groups or convey the impression of two competing state authorities for Afghanistan, which could undermine the legitimate Afghan State, Afghan Government and the political, social and economic progress witnessed in Afghanistan over the past decade, to which the international community itself has contributed in great measure.

India remains committed to supporting the Government and the people of Afghanistan, in accordance with the India-Afghanistan Strategic Partnership Agreement, and a reconciliation process that has the support of the Government and the people of Afghanistan."
Source: Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi

17. Press Release conveying warm greetings and congratulations from President of India to the Emir of Qatar, New Delhi, 25 June 2013.
Your Highness,
It is with immense pleasure that I extend, on behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, warm greetings and congratulations on your assuming the office of the Emir of the State of Qatar.

India values it cordial and friendly ties with the State of Qatar, underpinned by close people-to-people contacts. I am confident that the ongoing cooperation across the full spectrum of political, economic and cultural activities between our two countries will continue to diversity and further strengthen in the years to come- for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Highness my best wishes for your personal good health and prosperity of the friendly people of the State of Qatar.

Please accept, your highness, the assurances of my highest consideration.
sd/-(Pranab Mukherjee)

His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamid Al Thani
The Emir of the State of Qatar,
Doha.
Source: Embassy of India, Doha

18. Message of congratulations and greetings from Salman Khurshid, Minister of External Affairs, Government of India to Dr. Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, New Delhi, 28 June 2013.
On behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend heartiest congratulations and warm greetings on your appointment as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar.

We, in India, greatly value our close and time-tested relations, deeply rooted in history with the State of Qatar.  I am confident that under your able guidance, our mutually beneficial multifaceted ties will continue to further strengthen and deepen.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes in guiding the State of Qatar to further progress and prosperity and for your personal good health and well-being.
Source: Embassy of India, Doha

19. Message of greetings and congratulations from Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India to Abdullah Bin Nasser Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister of the State of Qatar, New Delhi, 28 June 2013.
On behalf of the Government and people of India, it gives me great pleasure to extend to you our warm greetings and heartiest congratulations on your appointment as Prime Minister of the State of Qatar.

India and Qatar enjoy close and friendly relations, underpinned by historical links and close people-to-people contacts.  I am confident that, under your dynamic leadership, our ongoing multifaceted cooperation will continue to strengthen and deepen in the years ahead.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes for your personal good health and well being, and the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the State of Qatar.
Source: Embassy of India, Doha

20. Consular Section Timings from 1 July 2013 till 15 September 2013, Doha, 30 June 2013.
The timings of the Embassy’s Consular Section during the period 1 July 2013 till 15
September 2013 have been modified as follows:
0800 hours to 1115 hours: Submission of applications
1500 hours to 1615 hours:      Collection of documents after consular service has been rendered
There is no change in the timings (0900 hours to 1700 hours) of the other Sections of the Embassy.
Source: Embassy of India, Doha

h. SAUDI ARABIA
21.   Press Release, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
Requirements for replacement of ordinary passport of 36 pages in lieu of Passport not returned by the Sponsor.
Jawazat Print-out of Passport  / Personal particulars with English translation
•        New Sponsor’s letter in the format
•        New passport form
•        Affidavit
•        PP form with photo affixed on it
•        Photocopy of passport
•        Copy of Iqama or Identity card or Driving license, if available
•        Four (4) Identical recent passport size photographs. (Please See   Photograph Requirements Document)
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

22. Press Release, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
Guidelines issued by the Saudi Interior and Labour Ministries:
For English
For Hindi
For Malayalam
For Urdu
Second Schedule for Verification of EC Applications in Dhammam

The verification of applications submitted at VFS, Dhammam will be carried out at Indian International School, Dhammam (IISD), from 1700 hours onwards. Applicants having token number from VFSD 3701 onwards should reach IIS Dhammam on 3 June 2013 from 1700 hours onwards for verification. The list of token numbers of EC applicants has been uploaded at the Embassy of India website www.indianembassy.org.sa.The Embassy has till date received over 600 original passports of EC applicants based in Dhammam. The complete list including the ones is available on the Embassy's website. Those who have not collected their passports can collect them from IIS Dhammam on 2 June 2013.   

The Embassy has obtained over six hundred passports of EC applicants based in Riyadh whose original passports were received at the Indian Consulate in Jeddah. This list has been uploaded on the Embassy website at www.indianembassy.org.sa.

All EC applications received from Eastern Province at the Embassy directly through volunteers, fax/post/ courier have been accounted for and are being processed. The Embassy will release dates for the delivery and mode of delivery of these ECs shortly. All those who have applied for ECs will get their ECs in due course.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

23. Final Schedule for Verification of EC Applications, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
In our effort to speed up the process of Delivery of Emergency Certificates (ECs), the Final list of verification and delivery process of Emergency Certificates (ECs) for all Indian nationals who have applied for ECs at the Embassy and at other collection centres under Consular jurisdiction of Embassy of India has been prepared which will supersede all lists released earlier. The verification of applications submitted at Embassy of India, Riyadh (Diplomatic Quarter) will be from 0800-1400 hours and 1400-2000 hours. Please note that only those with token numbers mentioned for the dates below, will be allowed on the dates and timings indicated.

Table avialable only in pdf format.

The Embassy has obtained over six hundred passports of EC applicants based in Riyadh whose original passports were received at the Indian Consulate in Jeddah. This list has been uploaded on the Embassy website at www.indianembassy.org.sa. These passports can be collected from the Embassy between 1400 hours to 1600 hours starting on 1 June 2013.

All EC applications received at the Embassy directly and through volunteers, fax/post/ courier have been accounted for and are being processed. The Embassy will release dates for the delivery and mode of delivery of these ECs shortly. All those who have applied for ECs will get their ECs in due course. The schedule of verification for delivery and list of token numbers of EC applicants has been uploaded at the Embassy of India website www.indianembassy.org.sa

All EC applications in respect of women and children below 18 years will be processed on a priority basis and ECs will be issued to them on the third day.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

24. Exports of Cashew Kernels increases to Saudi Arabia by 12 per cent, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
Indian exports of Cashew kernels increased from Rs.1.642 billion in April 2011 to January 2012 to Rs.1.843 billion in April 2012 to January 2013 to Saudi Arabia registering an increase of 12 per cent. Saudi Arabia is one of the top 5 importers of cashews kernels during this period from India. Other major importers of Indian Cashew Kernels are Japan, USA and Netherland. The growth in imports from India demonstrates the desire of Saudi citizens to buy the best quality goods from India.

For further details, please visit the website of The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India, a body established by Government of India

The contact details of The Cashew Export Promotion Council of India is P.B. 1709, Chittoor Road, Ernakulam, Chochin 682016, India, Phone 00-91-484-2376459, Fax 00-91-2377973, E-mail: cepci@cashewindia.org

For details about exporters of Cashew from India, Trade Wing in the Embassy of India, Riyadh may be contacted at trade.riyadh@mea.gov.in
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

25. Indian Catalogue Show, 5 June 2013 (1030 hours to 1730 hours), Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
The Embassy of India in association with Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry is organizing a Multi Product Catalogue Exhibition (INDIA CATEX) at Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Riyadh on 5 June 2013, from 1030 hours to 1700 hours. The ‘INDIA CATEX’ will showcase a large number of Indian product catalogues and CDs from various sectors of Industry and Trade, some of which are as given below:
* Agriculture & Food Products    *Automotive
*Construction   *Building Materials       *Chemicals
*Cosmetics   *Electronics    *Electrical Products
*Engineering Goods   *Fasteners  *Valves
*Furniture    *Handicrafts and Gift items
*IT & Telecom    *Leather Goods  *Machinery   *Generators
*Plants and Equipments    *Medical & Pharmaceutical Products
*Metals & Minerals    *Packaging Material     *Pumps
*Rubber & Plastic Products    *Sports Goods
*Textile & Garments   *Stationery items
*Books and Periodicals etc

The exhibition will be held at the premises of Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry on 5 June 2013 (from 1030 hours to 1700 hours). All are cordially invited to visit the exhibition to get a firsthand experience of the various products of Indian companies being showcased at the venue.

For any queries please email to: com.riyadh@mea.gov.in
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

26. Press Release, Riyadh, 3 June 2013.
Passports for Tanazul Cases:
The Embassy of India has released information on the procedure for issuing passports for Tanazul (transfer of jobs) cases to help those Indian nationals eligible to change their jobs to new companies but unable to get their passports from their original sponsors. All such applicants should submit their passport applications under renewal category and will be issued new passports.

The documents required for issuing of such passports are uploaded at the Embassy of India website at www.indianembassy.org.sa. The documents include (a) letter from the new company in English or with English translation duly attested by the Chamber of Commerce (format of the letter uploaded on Embassy of India Website); (b) Affidavit from the Applicant (format of the affidavit uploaded on Embassy of India website)

All such applicants should approach the VFS Passport Application Centres in Um Al Hammam, Batha and Dhammam. These applicants will be issued passports on a priority basis starting on 6 June 2013 to complete the transfer process.

For documents required for issuing such passport, see
For letter from the new company, see
For affidavit from the applicant, see
ECs submitted through Volunteers, Courier and Post:

Embassy of India today released the list of EC applications received through volunteers/ Post/ Courier for verification and delivery. The list is uploaded on the Embassy of India website www.indianembassy.org.sa. A list of EC applications received through courier is also uploaded at the Embassy website. They will be contacted directly for verification and distribution of ECs.

A meeting of volunteers who submitted EC applications is being organized on Friday, 7 June 2013 at 1600 hours at the Embassy premises to brief them on the mode and schedule of verification and delivery of ECs.

The volunteers who submitted EC applications may contact First Secretary (CW) at sscw@indianembasy.org.sa or at office number 4884032 or cell number 054212 6793 for any queries.

For volunteers/post/courier, see

For EC applications received through courier, see

EC delivery at Al Hassa:
A team from Embassy of India will be in Al Hassa on Friday 7 June 2013 from   1400-1900 hours to distribute ECs directly to the applicants from Al Hassa and nearby places. This would include those applicants from Al Hassa area who submitted their EC applications at Dhammam and through volunteers.

The venue of the Embassy camp in Al Hassa will be Modern International School, Al Hassa. A first list of ECs to be distributed in Al Hassa on 7 June is uploaded on the Embassy of India website. Additional lists will be published shortly.
For list of ECs to be distributed in Al Hassa, see
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

27. Press Release, Riyadh, 6 June 2013.
The Embassy of India will set up mobile helpline counters at Shumeshi Tarheel and Riyadh International Airport starting on 8 June. A team of Arabic speaking officials and volunteers led by a diplomatic officer from the Embassy will station at the Tarheel and Airport 24x7 to provide assistance to the Indians who approach these offices. The helpline numbers for Tarheel Indian Embassy team are 0546843866; 0546843894; 0546843836; 0546843746; 0546843903. The helpline numbers for Airport Indian Embassy team are 0546843922; 0546843919; 0546843734; 0546843750; 0548981774. This is in addition to the 24x7 helpline currently available at the Embassy of India. These numbers are 011 4884697, 011 4881982, 0501699879, 0501700106, 0501699895, 0501699894.

The Embassy of India has completed the verification of all EC applications directly submitted at the Chancery and collected through other collection centres till today numbering over 50,000 applicants. By 20 June all ECs submitted at the Embassy will be distributed for which dates have been conveyed to the applicants. Starting 8 June, new EC application collection and distribution counters will operate from 0800-1600 hours except on Fridays. There would be no public counters after 1600 hours. The last date of collection of new EC applications is 20 June.

A meeting of the volunteers who submitted EC applications at the Embassy has been convened on 7 June at 1600 hours to convey the mode of verification and delivery. It is reiterated that ECs are issued free of cost. If anyone is found having collected money illegally for ECs, such ECs will be issued only after their case is fully investigated and the money collected illegally is refunded to the applicant.

The Embassy team will visit Al Ahsa on 7 June. They will distribute ECs from the Modern Indian School premises from 1400- 1900 hours. The schedule for visit of Embassy team to other cities will be announced shortly.

The Embassy of India has also opened special Tanazul services counter at the Embassy premises from 0800-1400 hours except on Fridays to assist those Indian nationals eligible to change their jobs to new companies but unable to get their passports from their original sponsors. This is to provide guidance on fulfilling the Tanazul requirements. The Embassy had earlier announced that all those who wish to obtain a passport for Tanazul should submit their passport applications under renewal category and will be issued new passports on a priority basis. The documents required for issuing of such passports are uploaded at the Embassy of India website at www.indianembassy.org.sa. The documents include (a) letter from the new company in English or with English translation duly attested by the Chamber of Commerce (format of the letter uploaded on Embassy of India Website); (b) Affidavit from the Applicant (format of the affidavit uploaded on Embassy of India website). All such applicants should approach the VFS Passport Application Centres in Um Al Hammam, Batha and Dhammam. These applicants will be issued passports on a priority basis to complete the Tanazul process.

For the letter from the new company, see
For the affidavit from the applicant, see
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

28. Press Release, Riyadh, 7 June 2013.
A meeting of volunteers registered with the Embassy will be held on 9 June 2013, at 1830 hours in the Chancery premises at the Diplomatic Quarters. The Ambassador will address and brief all the volunteers during the meeting in addition to updating about the latest developments regarding the Embassy operations at Tarheels, Jawazats and labour offices. All volunteers are requested to attend the meeting and also give their inputs on the ongoing process.

All Indian vernacular media in Saudi Arabia are also invited to attend.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

29. Press Release, Riyadh, 11 June 2013.
In its efforts to reach out to Indian nationals staying in other cities, Embassy officials would undertake EC verification and distribution tours to different parts of Saudi Arabia as per the discussions held with volunteers. The indicative date, time, place and venue of these tours are as given below:
S. No. Place Date & Timings Venue
1.Al Hassa June 14, 2013; 2 pm - 8 pm Modern International School, Al Hassa

2. Al Kharj June 15, 2013; 2 pm - 8 pm Middle East School, Al Kharj

3. Hafar Al Batin June 15, 2013; 2 pm - 8 pm VFS Counter, Hafar Al Batin

3. Jubail June 16, 2013; 2 pm - 4 pm International Indian School, Jubail

4. Al Khafji June 16, 2013; 6 pm - 8 pm International Indian School, Al Khafji

5. Buraidah June 16, 2013; 2 pm - 6 pm International Indian School, Buraidah

6. Hail June 17, 2013; 9 am - 2 pm 3rd Floor, Al Noor Polyclinic,   King Khalid Street,  Hail

7. Wadi Al Dawasir June 18, 2013;2 pm - 8 pm VFS Passport Application Collections Centre,   Wadi Al Dawasir

8.Dawadmi June 21, 2013; 2 pm - 8 pmHotel Dar Al Khaleej, Abdul Aziz Road, Dawadmi
An updated list of EC applications received from the volunteers is uploaded on the Embassy website. Applicants are advised to contact the volunteers to whom they have submitted their EC application form for necessary advice and filling up of fee waiver forms. Embassy has briefed the volunteers regarding the further course of action and procedure to be followed.

For the updated list of EC applications, see:
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

30. Advisory for Exit visas, Riyadh, 15 June 2013.
The Embassy of India urges all Indian nationals who have obtained Emergency Certificates (ECs)/Out passes from the Embassy to ensure that they obtain their Exit visas from Tarheels immediately.  Anyone who overstays their visa in Saudi Arabia beyond the grace period will face penal action including jail sentence, penalty and deportation with a ban on re-entry. The Embassy again urges all overstaying Indian nationals to avoid such a situation by availing the ‘concessions’ announced by the Saudi authorities during the grace period which ends on 3 July 2013.

All those who have obtained ECs from the Embassy will have their original passports cancelled. They will not be able to travel out of India using their old passports, even if the date of expiry on their passports shows validity. Anyone wanting to change their jobs (Tanazul) in Saudi Arabia could obtain new passports after following the necessary procedures. New passports will be issued to such applicants at VFS Counters in Um Al Hammam and Batha in Riyadh within three working days.

Those who did not do fingerprinting on their arrival in Saudi Arabia and also do not have either Iqama or Saudi visa copy may approach Dauriath section in Sumeshi Tarheel at Riyadh for fingerprinting (Basma) and to obtain Exit. If they still have any problem, they may contact the helpdesk at the Embassy in Riyadh during working hours on week days.

The Embassy urges all Indian nationals who have applied for ECs to collect the same from the Embassy on the dates allotted to them. All ECs should be collected on or before 20 June 2013. It is reiterated that all those who have collected their ECs should obtain Exit visas from Tarheels immediately and leave the country.

Those Indians who obtained their ECs, but do not have any documents to ascertain their date of entry to Saudi Arabia, but have their initial Saudi visa copy, could obtain the entry number from the Ministry of Interior Website at www.moi.gov.sa. The Indian volunteers at Tarheel would help those who need assistance to get their Entry numbers. Indians who are returning from Airport should approach the special counter set up by Saudi authorities in Sumeshi Tarheel.

The following category of people is not being issued Exit visas at Tarheel: (i) those have valid Iqamas; (ii) those who arrived in Saudi Arabia after 7 January 2013; (iii) those who were declared Huroob on or after 6 April 2013; (iv) those who are working in green category companies.  If any of these categories have any further queries they may contact the Embassy of India Tarheel Helpline numbers (Tele: 0546843866, 0546843894, 0546843836, 0546843746, 0546843903). They may also contact Embassy officials and volunteers deployed at Sumeshi Tarheel.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

31. Press Release, Riyadh, 19 June 2013.
Press Release, Riyadh, 19 June 2013.
 The proposed visit of the Embassy of India team to Dawadmi for Emergency Certificate verification and distribution on 21 June 2013 has been cancelled. Those EC applicants have been advised to visit the Embassy of India in Riyadh for verification and collection of ECs.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

32. Two hundred Companies offer Jobs for Indian Workers, Riyadh, 19 June 2013.
A meeting of representatives of companies that have offered to recruit Indian workers by availing the ‘concessions’ announced by the Saudi authorities will be held at the Embassy of India premises at Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh on Friday, 21 June at 1600 hours. All are invited to attend.

The Embassy of India continues to receive requests from several major Indian and Saudi companies offering jobs to Indian workers who are eligible to avail the ‘concessions’ announced by the Saudi authorities to correct their legal status during the grace period. The Embassy would like to reiterate that those wanting to avail Tanazul facilities may wish to contact the companies which approached the Embassy and seek new employment. An updated list of 200 companies which approached the Embassy to recruit Indian workers is available at the Embassy website www.indianembassy.org.sa.

A significant number of Indian workers have already availed these offers and are in the process of changing their company/job. The Embassy appreciates the offers from these companies to come forward to recruit Indian workers. It urges more Indian workers to come forward and avail these offers. However, it is clarified that this would remain purely a contractual transaction between the employer and the employee with Embassy acting only as a facilitator. All those changing their employer are urged to ensure that they enter into proper Employment Contract with their employers.

Those wanting to obtain new passports to avail Tanazul facility can submit applications for such passports at the Riyadh VFS offices outsourcing centres at Umm Al Hammam and Batha in Riyadh and such passports will be issued on priority in three working days. The VFS outsourcing centres at Umm Al Hammam and Batha will operate on Thursdays and Fridays (till 3 July 2013) for Tanazul passport work. However, they can initiate the process of Tanazul based on the copy of their passports.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

33. ‘Job Status Correction Fair’ at Riyadh Exhibition Centre: 22-26 June 2013, Riyadh, 21 June 2013.
The Embassy of India is participating in the ‘Job Status Correction Fair’ being organized by Riyadh Chamber of Commerce at the Riyadh Exhibition Centre at King Abdullah Road in Riyadh on 22-26 June 2013. The Embassy of India will open a stall at Hall Number 4 of the Exhibition Centre from 22-26 June 2013 from 0800 hours onwards.

A significant number of eligible Indian workers have already availed the job opportunities offered by more than 200 companies which have approached the Embassy during the last two months. The Job Status Correction Fair is being organized to give a chance to those who could not avail the job concessions announced by the Saudi authorities. Indian nationals who have not corrected their job status till date are urged to avail this opportunity at Riyadh Exhibition Centre. They are required to visit the Exhibition Centre after 0800 hours on 22 June with a copy of their passport and Iqama or Entry Visa.

At the Indian stall, documents of those wanting to obtain new passports to avail Tanazul facility will be checked at the counters. They can submit applications for such passports at the Riyadh VFS outsourcing centres at Umm Al Hammam and Batha in Riyadh and such passports will be issued on priority within three working days. The VFS outsourcing centres at Umm Al Hammam and Batha will operate throughout the week including Thursdays and Fridays (till 3 July 2013) for Tanazul related passport work. However, they can initiate the process of Tanazul based on the copy of their passports.

Surinder Bhagat, Second Secretary (Political & Commerce) and Abdu Sharief, Marketing Assistant at the Embassy of India will be coordinating the Indian Stall at the Exhibition Centre.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

34. Press Release, Riyadh, 22 June 2013.
The Embassy of India, in association with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industries is organizing an event for those desiring to rectify their status and get suitable employment. More than 55 major Saudi companies participated in the event, and over 500 people visited the Indian Stall (Number 4) at the Exhibition Centre, King Abdullah Road, near Exit 10, Riyadh. The officials from Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industries were present at the Exhibition. The companies interviewed the prospective employees on the spot and also issued job offers to many of them. It is expected that more Saudi companies and Indian expatriates wishing to avail this opportunity would visit the Exhibition Centre which runs this entire week from 0800 hours in the morning till evening. A lot of Indians have already been offered jobs directly by the Saudi companies after conducting interviews. The companies are looking for professional, skilled, semi-skilled employees like civil, electrical and mechanical engineers, technicians, skilled labourers including masons, carpenters, technicians, drivers, welders, secretaries, etc.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

35. Update on Collection of Travel Documents, Riyadh, 28 June 2013.
Embassy of India once again urges all the Indian expatriate workers who have received their Emergency Certificates (ECs) or Out passes to approach Saudi immigration authorities for getting their final exit visa immediately.

Embassy of India has completed the process of issuing ECs to all those applicants who have verified their personal particulars with the Embassy. Any applicant who has not yet received his/her EC may approach the Embassy along with a copy of his/her passport on Saturday, 29 June or Sunday, 30 June 2013 for verification and collection of ECs.

All applicants who have submitted their EC applications in Dhammam or nearby cities may collect their ECs from Indian International School, Dhammam by Sunday, 30 June 2013. In case, they cannot collect their ECs by that day, they may visit Embassy of India, Riyadh on Monday , 1 July 2013 to collect the same. Similarly any EC applicant who submitted his/her EC application in other cities may approach Embassy of India on Saturday, 29 June; Sunday, 30 June; or Monday, 1 July 2013 for collecting their ECs. All those applicants who are in DNF (i.e. who did not submit their passport details) and have not received their ECs may also approach Embassy on Saturday, 29 June or Sunday, 30 June to check the availability of their ECs.

Embassy officials deployed at Tarheel and Labour Offices in Riyadh and Dhammam and at Riyadh Airport will continue their services in the coming weeks. All volunteers registered with the Embassy are requested to continue providing their services in coordination with the Embassy officials deployed at these venues.

In view of the decision by the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to shift the weekend to Friday and Saturday, Embassy of India, starting from 1 July 2013 will observe Sunday to Thursday as working days and Friday and Saturday as closed holidays in consonance with the Saudi official working days. VFS centres in Riyadh will also follow same schedule of working days.
Source: Embassy of India, Riyadh

i. TURKEY
36. Turkish Ambassador Calls on Tourism Minister, New Delhi, 18 June 2013.
Ambassador of Turkey in India Dr. Burak Akcapar called on Union Tourism Minister K. Chiranjeevi here today. During the meeting, Dr. Akcapar raised the issue of enhancing air frequency for increasing tourist traffic between the two countries as existing flights cannot cope with the demand.

Turkey is an important inbound tourist source market for India. During the year 2011 a total number of 17,329 tourists from Turkey visited India. Turkish Airlines is planning to spread its network in India with the possible code sharing with Air India. With an aim to attracting more tourists from Turkey the Ministry of Tourism is planning to carry out special promotions in the Turkish market this year.

The Turkish ambassador suggested that the Ministry of Tourism and Turkish authorities can undertake joint promotion to increase two-way traffic between India and Turkey.

A Bilateral Tourism Cooperation Agreement between India and Turkey was signed in 1995 in Delhi. The Agreement contains the provision for setting up a Joint working group. The first meeting of the India-Turkey Joint Committee on Tourism was held in Ankara on 27-28 May 2002 and the 2nd meeting was held in New Delhi on 23 November 2006. The Ministry of Tourism proposes to convey 3rd meeting after March 2013 at the convenience of both the countries.
Source: Press Information Bureau, New Delhi

37. India-Turkey to Enhance Cooperation in Renewable Energy, New Delhi, 27 June 2013.
India and Turkey have agreed to enhance their cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy. This was decided at a meeting held between the Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz and Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Minister of New and Renewable Energy at Ankara. Dr. Abdullah is visiting Turkey along with a high level delegation to explore greater opportunities for cooperation and collaboration between Indian and Turkey. Dr. Abdullah briefed his counterpart on the energy situation in India and India’s plans to add over 30 GW of renewable energy to its energy mix in the next 5 years. He also dwelt on the success of the wind programme as well as the significant cost reductions in solar energy through the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM).

The Turkish leader said that Ankara hopes to diversify its energy mix by introducing a large component of renewable. It has considerable potential in wind, hydro, solar and geothermal energy. It imports over 90 per cent of its oil, gas and fossil fuel requirement. He recognized India’s considerable achievements and strengths in renewable energy and noted that India had made large strides in this field and expressed the Turkish government’s desire to set up large generating as well as manufacturing capacities in renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar. Dr. Abdullah offered India’s support and expertise to Turkey in setting up projects in wind, solar and hydropower. He also offered training slots in India to Turkish scientists, engineers and technicians through the ITEC programme and expressed his country’s desire for a serious and meaningful cooperation with Turkey, especially in renewable energy and offered all possible assistance.

The Turkish Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) and the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSCON) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) later organized business seminars where business delegations from both countries deliberated in detail on the opportunities and prospects of renewable energy in Turkey. Both sides identified specific areas of scientific cooperation and possibilities of participation in renewable energy projects and investment opportunities.

Earlier in the day, the Minister visited Anitkabir- the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey and paid his respects.
Note: Photographs of the meeting are available on PIB website.
Source: Press Information Bureau, New Delhi

Compiled by Alvite N

Alvite N is a Doctoral candidate at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Email

As part of the policy, the MEI@ND standardizes spellings and date format to make the text uniformly accessible and stylistically consistent. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views/positions of the MEI@ND. Editor, MEI@ND P R Kumaraswamy