BILATERAL ISSUES

BAHRAIN

Ambassador’s visit to India Pavilion of Jewellery Arabia, Bahrain, 18 November 2021.

H.E. Mr. Piyush Srivastava, Ambassador of India to Kingdom of Bahrain visited the India Pavilion of Jewellery Arabia 2021 on 18th November 2021 and met the leading Indian manufactures/traders and high-profile designers who are participating in the exhibition.

Ambassador expressed appreciation to all the Indian exhibitors for participating in the prestigious event. All the manufactures and designers were enthusiastic to showcase their prestigious jewellery in the exhibition. Ambassador congratulated all the participating companies/ organisation/ traders for putting forward a vibrant India pavilion, which also showcases strong post-covid economic revival and growth in India.

More than 60 Indian companies are participating in the Jewellery Arabia 2021, one of the largest Jewellery exhibition in the region. India Pavilion showcasing Jewellery products from India including studded jewellery with precious stones like rubies, emeralds, sapphires and pearls; handmade jewellery and wide range of modern jewellery, made a big impact in the exhibition.

India is one of the largest exporters of gems and jewellery and the industry plays a vital role in the Indian economy and contributes a major chunk to the foreign reserves of the country. The 29th edition of Jewellery Arabia 2021, the Middle East’s premier jewellery exhibition, was inaugurated by His Highness Shaikh Ali Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of Kingdom of Bahrain on 16th November 2021 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. Over 500 Jewellery & Watch brands from 31 countries are participating in this flagship Jewellery exhibition in the region, which is being held from 16-20 November 2021. Source: Embassy of India, Bahrain.

IRAQ

Response of Official Spokesperson of Government of India to media queries on the assassination attempt on the Iraqi Prime Minister, New Delhi, 07 November 2021.

In response to media queries on the assassination attempt on the Iraqi Prime Minister, the Official Spokesperson Shri Arindam Bagchi said:

"We strongly condemn the assassination attempt by drone attack today morning on the Iraqi Prime Minister, Mr. Mustafa al-Kadhimi.

Terrorism and violence have no place in any civilized society. They cannot be allowed to undermine peace and stability in Iraq.

We express our concerns for the casualties caused by the attack and reiterate our support for the democratic process in Iraq.” Source: Embassy of India, Baghdad.

ISRAEL

DRDO & Directorate of Defence R&D, Israel sign Bilateral Innovation Agreement for development of dual use technologies, New Delhi, 09 November 2021.

As a tangible demonstration of the growing Indo–Israeli technological cooperation, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D), Ministry of Defence, Israel have entered into a Bilateral Innovation Agreement (BIA) to promote innovation and accelerated R&D in start-ups and MSMEs of both countries for the development of dual use technologies. The agreement was signed between and Secretary, Department of Defence, R&D & Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy and Head of DDR&D, Israel BG (Retd) Dr Daniel Gold in New Delhi on November 09, 2021.

Under the agreement, start-ups and industry of both countries will work together to bring out next generation technologies and products in the areas such as Drones, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum technology, Photonics, Bio sensing, Brain-Machine Interface, Energy Storage, Wearable Devices, Natural Language Processing, etc. Products and technologies will be customised to meet unique requirements of both the countries. The development efforts will be jointly funded by DRDO and DDR&D, Israel. The technologies developed under BIA will be available to both countries for their domestic applications. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Chief of Army Staff Proceeds on a Visit to Israel, New Delhi, 14 November 2021.

General MM Naravane, the Chief of the Army Staff has proceeded on a visit to Israel from 15 to 19 November 2021. This is his first visit to Israel.

During the visit, he will be meeting the Country’s senior military and civilian leadership where he will discuss avenues for further enhancing Indo-Israel defence relations. The Army Chief will take forward the excellent bilateral defence cooperation between Israel and India through multiple meetings with senior officials of the security establishment and exchange views on various defence related issues. He will interact with the Service Chiefs and visit the Headquarters of the Ground Forces element of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Experts from India and Israel highlighted the need for changes in the socio-cultural environment while deliberating on ways of achieving gender parity in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the conference on India-Israel Women in STEM on November 24, 2021.

“There are 3 main issues about lesser women participation in STEM fields which have existed historically across millennia-- how well S&T has translated into the economic sphere and how our institutions are structured. S&T could become a change maker in society by introducing flexible work times, and gender-neutral pays to enhance women participation in STEM,” Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, highlighted at the conference jointly organized by the Department of Science & Technology (DST) Govt. of India and Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (MOIST), Israel.

Dr Gaya Loren, Deputy Chief Scientist, Ministry of Innovation, Science & Technology, Israel, said that Israel Innovation Authority sees increased women participation in tech fields as an investment for the country’s advancement in the future and noted that initiative of joint conference could be a guiding platform in this direction.

His Excellency Sanjeev Singla, Ambassador of India to Israel, pointed out that India being one of the world’s largest scientific pools has been taking encouraging steps for incentivizing women to pursue a career in STEM. The two countries with a history of successful collaboration can bridge the gender in STEM, he added at the online conference.

“Greater women’s participation in the tech sector will make women more strong and influential, giving a boost to their socio-economic situation in the society,” His Excellency Naor Gilon, Ambassador of Israel to India, stressed at the conference titled India-Israel Women: Sharing Ideas & Initiatives. 

“There are areas in science which have seen remarkable progress in women participation; however, areas like Physics, Engineering and Mathematics need a course correction,” Dr SK Varshney, Adviser, DST, remarked. He highlighted few major programmes of the DST, which aim to bring back women who opted out from science fields to science. They also give incentives to women scientists, promote women entrepreneurship as well as encourage gender balance in institutions.

Dr Nisha Mendiratta, Adviser, DST, said that one of the major issues regarding women’s participation in STEM fields is gendered brain-drain in STEM. This was reported by UNESCO in 2019 and is also evident in the gender gap at higher studies in science, particularly at the doctorate and post-doctorate levels. She further mentioned that society, system (Government policy), support from family and work area and self-motivation could help enable women empowerment. 

Dr Renu Swarup, former Secretary DST and Department of Biotechnology (DBT), emphasized on greater focus on socio-cultural environment change for empowering women in STEM fields. “The two governments need to play a major role in generating enablers to allow greater women’s participation like joint programmes that connect incubation centres in the two countries and setting up incubation centres just for women,” she added. 

Ms Hilla Ovil Brenner and Keren Hod from Israel shared their entrepreneurship experience. They highlighted the need for driving women to reach their full potential as entrepreneurs by providing them with suitable tools and guidance.

Prof. Vaishnavi Ananthanarayanan from India and Prof. Rachel Erhard from Israel talked about ways for bridging gender gap in Academia, Nandita Jayaraj, Dr Avital Beck, Dr Maitri Gopalakrishna, Rinat Shafran, Dr Manal Haj Zarobi, Orit Hershtig- Cohen, Prof. Shobhana Narasimhan, and Dr Ujjwala Tirkey also talked about their respective journeys. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

PM greets Israeli PM H. E. Naftali Bennett and people of Israel on Hanukkah, New Delhi, 28 November 2021.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted Israeli Prime Minister, H. E. Naftali Bennett, people of Israel and the Jewish people around the world on Hanukkah.

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;

"Hanukkah Sameach Prime Minister @naftalibennett, to you and to the friendly people of Israel, and the Jewish people around the world observing the 8-day festival of lights."

Need for socio-cultural changes, flexi work times & gender-neutral pays highlighted at India-Israel Women in STEM conference, New Delhi, 26 November 2021. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

OMAN

Celebration of 6th Ayurveda Day in Oman, Muscat, 02 November 2021.

Embassy of India, Muscat in association with Sri Sri Tattva Panchakarma, Kottakkal Ayurvedic Centre and Coimbatore Ayurvedic Centre organized an event to celebrate the 6th Ayurveda Day on 2nd November 2021.

2. The event was graced by Dr. Mazin Al Khabouri, DG Private Health Institutions, Ministry of Health, Sultanate of Oman as Chief Guest. It was attended by officials from Government of Oman, Ambassadors, diplomats, representatives from Ayurveda & Yoga organizations, other dignitaries and members of Indian community.

3. Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, H.E. Amit Narang spoke about the importance of Ayurveda & Yoga in holistic health and how the principles of Ayurveda promote adoption of an ecologically sustainable lifestyle. Ambassador also acknowledged the contribution of Health-care workers, Ayurveda practitioners, and Yoga experts in dealing with COVID pandemic and commended the efforts of Oman government in managing the pandemic.

4. Dr. Mazin Al Khabouri, extended his warm greetings on behalf of Government of Oman and spoke on how traditional medicine systems play an important role in health care and well-being.

5. It was followed by brief presentations on the benefits of Ayurveda-by-Ayurveda experts. Dr. Madhu Harihar from Sri Sri Tattva Panchakarma spoke on “Basics of Ayurveda and its Fundamentals”, followed by Dr. Dhanya Umanath from Kottakal Ayurvedic Centre, who spoke about “Malnutrition and Ayurveda” and a presentation by Dr. Naseer from Coimbatore Ayurveda Centre, who discussed “Benefits of Ayurveda in Modern Lifestyle Disorders”. The event concluded with a short yoga demonstration by students of Indian School Muscat. A small exhibition of Ayurveda products and literature was also organized in the Embassy. Source: Embassy of India, Muscat.

“Ambassador’s CEO Round-table: Indian Businesses in Oman – A promising future”, Muscat, 11 November 2021.

Embassy of India, Muscat organized “Ambassador’s CEO Round-table :Indian Businesses in Oman – A promising future” on 9th November 2021.

2. The event was attended by CEOs and Heads of prominent Indian business houses and Indian Public Sector Undertakings in Oman.

3. Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, H.E. Shri Amit Narang spoke about the significance of India-Oman trade and investment relations and contribution of Indian diaspora and Indian companies based in Oman to further enhance these relations. He mentioned that there is a huge potential for Indian companies in Oman in the post-Covid period and this is the right time to tap the Omani market. He underlined the importance of aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and work together with Sultanate of Oman to achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. This would be beneficial for the growth of Indian companies in Oman.

4. Ambassador highlighted that Indian companies in Oman can play a crucial role of connecting and guiding Indian companies and their counterparts in Oman on the basis of their experience and knowledge about Oman. Ambassador also encouraged participants and all Indian companies in Oman to explore possibilities to bring Omani investment to India to realize Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Indian companies in Oman should try to import more products made in India. He assured full support and assistance of Embassy to any Indian company or investor in Oman.

5. Participants shared their experiences, challenges and business opportunities available in Oman. Participants were unanimously positive about the Omani economic growth and investment opportunity in the post pandemic period. To this end, they shared their constructive ideas and views for stronger cooperation between India and Oman. There was unanimity among the participants that Oman Vision 2040 presents new opportunities for further growth of Indian business in Oman and committed to better aligning their respective strategies to Vision 2040 of Oman. It was agreed that potential major sectors for Indian companies in Oman are IT including digital services & education, agriculture and food products, pharmaceuticals, mining, new energy, transportation and tourism. Need for more visits of business delegations from India to Oman and vice-versa, organizing sector-specific buyer-seller meets, investment related seminars and a GAP analysis to assess the potentials of Indian companies in Oman in different sectors were discussed.

6. The Round-table is expected to contribute to the drawing up of a cogent road-map for stronger trade and investment collaboration between India and Oman and will help the Embassy in better assisting and partnering with Indian businesses in Oman. Source: Embassy of India, Muscat.

Ambassador’s CEO Round-table: India-Oman Trade & Investment Ties – An upward trajectory, Muscat, 17 November 2021.

Embassy of India, Muscat organized “Ambassador’s CEO Round-table : India-Oman Trade & Investment Ties – An upward trajectory” on 16th November 2021, second in a series of interactions aimed at boosting economic and trade cooperation between India and Oman.

2. The event was attended by more than 15 prominent Omani business leaders representing diverse sectors of the Oman economy.

3. Noting the unique historic relations and deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Oman, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, H.E. Mr. Amit Narang spoke about the robust and buoyant economic and commercial relations between the two sides that are poised to grow further. He stressed that given the advantages of proximity, connectivity and familiarity with each other’s markets, there exists great potential for enhancing bilateral trade and deepening investment cooperation.

4. Ambassador noted with satisfaction that even during COVID19, India has been a reliable source of supply for fruits, vegetables and other essential items to Oman. Indian companies have emerged as leading investors in Oman, particularly in Free Zones with presence in various sectors like iron and steel, cement, fertilizers, textile, cables, chemicals, automotive etc. Oman’s strategic location as a gateway to the Middle East as well as Africa coupled with direct maritime connectivity (with the start of operations by Oman Shipping Company to two ports in India – Nhava Sheva and Mundra – from Sohar in Oman) make Oman a favoured destination for Indian companies.

5. Ambassador underlined the importance of Oman’s Vision 2040 that provides an excellent roadmap and platform for deepening India-Oman business ties and taking them to the next level. Oman Government’s push towards economic diversification under its Vision 2040 and Tanfeedh programme has opened up new opportunities for businesses in India and Oman to grow together. Ambassador assured that India will be a reliable partner of Sultanate of Oman to realize the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

6. Ambassador also encouraged Omani businesses to explore possibilities to invest in India. He briefed them about Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and assured participants that Embassy would be happy to provide all assistance for any trade or investment related issue between India and Oman.

7. Sharing their experiences about working with India and Indian companies, business leaders from Oman were very optimistic about the future of India-Oman economic and commercial relations in the post-pandemic period. They shared their constructive ideas and views for stronger cooperation between India and Oman, in particular context of the pathway towards Oman Vision 2040.

8. The Round-table was a useful exercise to understand the priorities and expectations of the Omani business leaders and will contribute to further boost trade and investment relations between India and Oman. Source: Embassy of India, Muscat.

UAE

IAF Contingent Inducts for the Dubai Air Show 2021, New Delhi, 10 November 2021.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) Contingent has inducted for participation in the biennial Dubai Air Show to be held at the Al Maktoum International Airport from 14th to 18th November 21. The IAF has been invited by the Government of UAE to participate with the Sarang and Suryakiran Aerobatics Teams. These teams will be performing along with some of the best aerobatics and display teams in the world, including the Saudi Hawks, Russian Knights and the UAE’s Al Fursan. In addition, the IAF’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas shall be part of the aerobatics and static displays during the show.

The induction of five Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruvs of the Sarang Team, 10 BAE Hawk 132s of the Suryakiran Team and the three LCA Tejas was completed by 09th November 21. The induction was supported by the IAF’s C-17 Globemaster IIIs and C-130J Super Hercules. On arrival, the contingent received a warm welcome by H. E. Staff Maj Gen Staff Pilot Ishaq Saleh Mohammed al-Balushi of the UAE Armed Forces and other officers of the UAE Air Force. The teams are now preparing for the opening ceremony on 14th November 21.

While the Sarang Team has previously participated in the Al Ain Grand Prix in UAE in 2005, the Dubai Air Show will be the first occasion for the Suryakirans and the Tejas to show off their swashbuckling aerial manoeuvres here. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Visit of Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Hardeep S. Puri to UAE from 15 – 17 November 2021, New Delhi, 14 November 2021.

Shri Hardeep S. Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs, will lead an official and business delegation to UAE from 15 – 17 November 2021, to attend the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC) on the invitation of H. E. Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure of UAE.

During the visit, the Minister will participate in the inaugural Ceremony of ADIPEC and also take part in a Ministerial Round Table titled “Charting the Climate Action Path from COP 26 to COP 27”.  Shri Puri will inaugurate the India Pavilion, set up jointly by Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI), Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH), and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

The Minister will give a keynote address during the Road Show on “Investment Opportunities in the Exploration and Production Sector in India” which DGH will be conducting on the sidelines of ADIPEC, to attract foreign investment by global oil and gas majors.

Shri Puri is scheduled to meet his counterparts from UAE, H.E. Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber, Minister of Industry & Advanced Technology, MD & Group CEO, ADNOC, to discuss issues of energy cooperation within the overall framework of India-UAE Strategic Partnership. The Minister will also have meetings with his counterparts from various countries and Heads of international energy organizations and CEOs of global oil & gas companies, who are attending the ADIPEC- 2021.

Transiting through Dubai, the Minister will inaugurate the Oil & Gas Sectoral floor at the India Pavilion of the Dubai Expo. He will participate in a Roundtable meeting on “Opportunities in Oil and Gas sector”, to be hosted by DGH.

Hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), ADIPEC is one of the world’s largest and an influential oil and gas event, which will provide Indian companies a world-class environment for showcasing their success stories across the industry’s value chain. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Gala Inauguration of “Textiles Week” at India Pavilion in Dubai Expo 2020, New Delhi, 27 November 2021.

The ‘Textiles Week’ was inaugurated by Shri Vijoy Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles along with Shri Jay Karan Singh, Trade Advisor at India Pavilion in “DUBAI EXPO’ 2020 in the presence of heads of participating Export Promotion Councils, yesterday. An interactive session on the ‘Sourcing and Investment Destination for Textiles Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme - A Game Changer’ was also organised at the Dubai Expo.  The objective of the interaction was to project India’s commitment towards attracting investments in the Textile Sector so as to enhance production and thereby exports.

In his address Chairman EPCH, Shri Raj Kumar Malhotra, said that the India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is one of the biggest platforms that offers a golden opportunity to showcase India to the world and project the country as the next hub for growth and innovation. The Expo will be open seven days a week, from 10 am to 12 pm (midnight) from Saturday to Wednesday and 10 am to 2 am (night) (Thursday and Friday). Website: https://indiaexpo2020.com/

Speaking on the occasion, Shri R.K. Verma, Executive Director-Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), informed that handicrafts is one of the important exports from the Cottage sector of the country and has immense potential in the overseas market. With the exports of around US$ 3500 million, the handicrafts of India are sold across the globe and India is one of the preferred destination of the overseas buyers for sourcing home, lifestyle, fashion, furniture and textiles items from India.

The Dubai Expo 2020 is a World Expo, currently hosted by Dubai in the United Arab Emirates from 1st October 2021 to 31st March 2022 with 192 participating country Pavilions. Union Minister of Textiles, Commerce & Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated the India Pavilion on 1st October, 2021. The India Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai reflects India’s commitment to the philosophy of लोका: समस्ता: सुखिनोभवन्तु (Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu), which means, “May everyone, in the whole world, be happy.” Informed Mr. Raj Kumar Malhotra, Chairman EPCH.

EPCH is a nodal agency under Ministry of Textiles for promoting exports of handicrafts from the Country to various destinations of the world and projecting India’s image abroad as a reliable supplier of high-quality handicrafts goods & services. The Handicrafts exports during the seven months of current financial year from April to October, 2021-22 is Rs. 19119.48 Crores registering a growth of over 50.88% over the same period last year. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

PERMANENT MISSION OF INDIA TO THE UN

UNSC Briefing on United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq [UNAMI], INDIA STATEMENT by Mr. Sanjay Bhattacharyya, New York, 30 November 2021.

Secretary

I thank you Mr. President. I also thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and Ms. Amal Kabashi, Coordinator, Iraqi Women's Network for their briefings.

2. Let me begin by commending the people and the government of Iraq for the successful and peaceful conduct of the parliamentary elections. We hope that the successful completion of elections marks the beginning of a new phase towards a stable Iraq. The people of Iraq, despite the difficult economic and security situation and the continued threat of terrorism, have expressed their will for a safer, inclusive and prosperous Iraq. We look forward to the early formation of the government, which would fulfil their aspirations.

3. We also appreciate the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) for their diligent and independent work towards holding these elections. We share the observations of the UN and other international election monitors that the elections were technically sound and conducted in a free and fair manner.

4. We also acknowledge the important role of UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) in supporting the IHEC and the Government of Iraq, as per the mandate provided by this Council, and contributing to a genuinely free and fair electoral process.

5. Women candidates running for parliamentary elections have secured 97 seats out of 329, an increase of 14 seats over and above the seats reserved for women. This represents a significant development towards ensuring greater political participation of women in Iraq. We appreciate the steps taken by the Iraqi government and the IHEC to promote women’s political participation in the electoral process and to prevent and address violence against women candidates.

6. India has strongly condemned the assassination attempt on the Prime Minister of Iraq and expressed our concerns for the casualties caused by the attack.  Terrorism and violence have no place in any civilized society. They cannot be allowed to undermine peace and stability in Iraq.

7. We reiterate our support for the democratic process in Iraq and encourage all political parties to respect the results of the elections. We note the concerns raised by some parties on the electoral process. Any concerns regarding the elections or its results should be addressed through legal and peaceful means within Iraq’s constitutional framework. Violence and intimidation should not be the tools for redressing these grievances. We urge parties to reject violence and resolve differences through a peaceful and inclusive dialogue.

8. The menace of terrorism continues to pose a major threat to the security, stability, governance, social and economic development of Iraq. We strongly condemn all terrorist attacks by the Islamic State (IS) against the people of Iraq and extend our sincere and deep condolences to the families of victims. We wish the injured a speedy recovery. The recent attack in Diyala is yet another reminder that despite the successes of the Iraqi security forces in combating this Group, IS remains active in the country and the region, with its affiliates functioning independently at many places in the world.

9. It is critical that the international community and Iraq’s partners continue their support and training to enable the Iraqi security forces in the fight against terrorism and build their capacity to address future threats. Such support and assistance should respect Iraq’s sovereignty and laws, while helping it preserve its territorial integrity and ensure the irreversible defeat of the IS.

10. India welcomes the outcomes of the “Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership” held in August. The conference was an expression of Iraq’s desire to develop friendly relations with its neighbours and give priority to the language of dialogue and non-interference in the affairs of other countries. I also commend Iraq's proactive role in promoting greater regional security and stability and its efforts in bridging differences between the countries of the region through diplomacy and dialogue.

11. We welcome the continuing cooperation between the Governments of Iraq and Kuwait to achieve an amicable solution to the pending issues. We also appreciate the efforts made by the members of the Tripartite Mechanism and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). We hope that the parties will continue to strengthen their cooperation until the matter is resolved to the mutual satisfaction of Iraq and Kuwait.

Mr. President,

12. India’s friendship with Iraq is steeped in history. Our people-to-people ties and the multi-faceted bilateral relations are very strong. India has always responded to the urgent needs of Iraq. Our Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme has grown from strength to strength over the years and has continued even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

13. As a steadfast supporter of a democratic, pluralistic, federal, unified and prosperous Iraq, India will remain a willing partner of the new Government in its efforts to achieve economic recovery, peace and stability, national reconciliation and reconstruction.

I thank you.  Source: Permanent Mission of India to the UN.

UNSC Meeting on United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Statement by Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, New York, 24 November 2021.

Mr. President,

At the outset, I would like to thank Special Envoy Mr. Jan Kubis for his briefing, and wish him all the best for his future endeavours. I also thank Dr. Lamees BenSaad, member of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, for her insightful remarks. I welcome the presence of our colleague the Libyan Ambassador in our meeting.

2. We are approaching the date of 24 December which was set by the Libyan people for Presidential and Parliamentary elections. This was an objective that was endorsed subsequently by the Security Council. There is a sense of cautious hope that the political momentum would be sustained towards holding simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections in a free, fair, inclusive, and credible manner exactly one month from now. In this regard, we welcome the outcomes of the Paris International Conference for Libya, including its commitment to the success of the Libyan political process, to the full implementation of the 23 October 2020 ceasefire agreement and look forward to the holding of presidential and parliamentary elections on 24 December.

3. The security scenario also calls for optimism from the international community. We have noted the 8th October agreement on the Joint Military Commission (JMC) Action Plan for the departure of mercenaries, foreign fighters, and foreign forces from the Libyan territories, and subsequent developments in this regard, including meetings conducted with representatives of Chad, Niger and Sudan with regard to implementation of the action plan.

4. At the same time, we also note from the briefing of the Special Envoy that challenges still remain, including impediments to the holding of elections in a free, fair, inclusive and credible manner. The involvement of external forces in the internal affairs of Libya has negatively impacted the progress on the political track; and terrorist forces have been raising their heads once again in Libya. Continued violations of arms embargo is equally alarming, as repeatedly reported by the Panel of Experts.

Mr. President,

5. As Libya embarks on its journey towards peace and stability, it is incumbent upon the international community and the Security Council, in particular, to continue to provide the necessary support to the country so that the political progress achieved in the country does not whittle away. In this regard, I would like to make the following suggestions:

(i) One, the most important priority for Libya is the holding of elections as planned on 24 December 2021 in a free, fair, inclusive and credible manner. The efforts by the High National Commission for Elections (HNEC) to advance preparations for the elections are to be commended.

(ii) Two, the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Libya needs to be safeguarded. The peace process must be fully Libyan-led and Libyan-owned with no imposition or external interference. We also encourage all Libyan parties to continue to make concerted efforts towards the unification of all national institutions.

(iii) Three, the provisions of the Ceasefire Agreement and successive Security Council resolutions need to be respected. The JMC Action Plan is an important step, which also shows the commitment of the Libyan parties towards the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries. It is important that the call of the Libyan parties is honoured.

(iv) Four, we must ensure that terrorist groups and affiliated entities are not allowed to operate unchallenged in Libya. The continued presence and activities of ISIL in Libya is of serious concern, also due to the potential cascading effect it is already having throughout the Sahel region. It is unfortunate that the issue is not drawing the attention it deserves. The international community must speak in one voice against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

(v) Five, we need to plan for the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of armed groups and non-state armed actors. We appreciate the fact that UNSMIL is prepared to render assistance to Libya in this process.

(vi) Six, an inclusive and comprehensive national reconciliation process is the need of the hour. We hope that the forthcoming elections will be an important step in this direction.

6. To conclude, India has traditionally enjoyed close and mutually beneficial bilateral ties with Libya and we remain committed to supporting Libya and the Libyan people in their endeavour to bring about lasting peace in the country.

I thank you, Mr. President. Source: Permanent Mission of India to the UN.

UNSC meeting on Palestine Question, INDIA STATEMENT By Ambassador R. Ravindra, Deputy Permanent Representative, New York, 30 November 2021.

Thank you Mr President. I thank UN Special Coordinator Mr. Tor Wennesl and for his briefing. I also thank Ms. Comfort Ero, for her statement.

2. India’s support for a peaceful resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict is consistent and well known. We hope for an early resumption of direct negotiations on the peace process between Israel and Palestine.

3. Recent developments on the ground, however, could pose challenges for the resumption of the peace process. The continued acts of violence against civilians in both Israel and Palestine as well as acts of provocation, incitement and destruction are deeply concerning. We condemn all such acts. Unilateral actions that unduly alter the status-quo on the ground and undercut the viability of the two-state solution must be avoided in the interest of peace and stability. I also underscore the need to respect and maintain the historic status quo of the holy sites in Jerusalem.

4. We welcome the co-operation between Israel, the Palestinian Authority and the regional countries to improve the socio-economic conditions in West Bank and Gaza, including coordination through the Ad-Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC). We appreciate the work of the donor countries and the development partners in the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee.

5. India welcomes the measures taken by Israel for creating greater opportunities for the socio-economic development of the Palestine. On our part, as a committed development partner of Palestine, India continues to provide developmental and humanitarian assistance both bilaterally through the Palestinian Authority and through contributions to the UN. Even during the pandemic, work on developmental projects in Palestine like the India-Palestine technopark, the Women Empowerment Centre and construction of schools have continued to progress. On the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, the Prime Minister of India extended his best wishes to the people of Palestine in their endeavour for statehood, peace and prosperity. In his message, he reaffirmed our relationship with the Palestinian people, which is based on deep-rooted historical and people-to-people ties.

6. We also appreciate the work of the UN and its agencies in ensuring the delivery of critical aid to the Palestinians. We call for regular and predictable transfer of aid, as well as for appropriate use of such aid. India remains supportive of UNRWA’s role in human development and delivery of humanitarian services. India has fully disbursed its pledged contribution for 2021. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs Shri. V. Muraleedharan participated in the recent UNRWA Ministerial conference in Brussels and renewed India’s commitment to continue to contribute USD 5 million to the Agency in 2022 also.

Mr. President,

7. I reiterate the urgent need for resumption of direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine which will provide a sustainable platform to resolve all final status issues towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side, at peace with Israel. The international community, the Middle East Quartet in particular, has an important role to play in reviving these negotiations.

8. In this regard, I welcome the recent meeting of the Quartet’s Special Envoys, which is timely. We urge the Quartet and the international community to engage with the Israeli and the Palestinian leadership to kick-start the negotiations. India stands ready to support all efforts aimed at the resumption of direct negotiations.

I thank you. Source: Permanent Mission of India to the UN.

MULTILATERAL ISSUES

Op Sankalp - Mission-Based Deployment to Persian Gulf by INS Trikand, New Delhi, 18 November 2021.

INS Trikand is currently deployed in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman as part of Operation Sankalp, the Indian Navy's effort to maintain a frontline ship in the region to ensure safe and secure movement of trade, instil confidence in the maritime community and contribute to regional maritime security.

The ship entered Manama, Bahrain, on 13th November 21 for a three-day operational turn round (OTR). During her stay at port, the ship engaged extensively with various maritime security agencies to enhance cooperation in all aspects of maritime security, including training and other mutually beneficial subjects.

Commanding Officer, INS Trikand, Captain Harish Bahuguna, visited the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Headquarters at Bahrain on 15th November 21 and called on the Deputy Commander of CMF, Commodore Edward Ahlgren. The port call offered the ship the opportunity to visit the US Coast Guard’s (USCG) Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) facility titled ‘Ship in a Box’. It also enabled a better understanding of the SOPs and training methodologies of other maritime forces, besides allowing the ship’s team to interact with the newly-formed Task Force (TF 59 - Unmanned Force), an experimental unit in a niche domain

Commanding Officer INS Trikand also called on His Excellency, the Ambassador of India to Bahrain, Mr. Piyush Srivastava, who was deeply appreciative of the role the Indian Navy played through such ship-visits in furthering bilateral relations and enhancing maritime security in the region.

INS Trikand is a state-of-the-art guided missile stealth frigate and is part of the Western Fleet that operates under the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, based at Mumbai. Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB).

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