Month: April 2025

In a worsening trade war between the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies, White House has imposed a sweeping 125% tariff on all goods imported from China, with the measure set to take effect immediately, in a retaliatory move against China’s 84% tariffs on American goods.

US President Donald Trump also announced a 90-day pause to his reciprocal tariffs move, imposed on other countries, saying that these nations didn’t retaliate in any way and approached for a negotiation.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff charged to China by the United States of America to 125%, effective immediately.”

The US President said that at some point, hopefully in the near future, China would realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.A., and other Countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable. “Conversely, and based on the fact that more than 75 Countries have called Representatives of the United States, including the Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and the USTR, to negotiate a solution to the subjects being discussed relative to Trade, Trade Barriers, Tariffs, Currency Manipulation, and Non Monetary Tariffs, and that these Countries have not, at my strong suggestion, retaliated in any way, shape, or form against the United States, I have authorized a 90 day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he wrote

On April 2, the US President had announced his “reciprocal tariff” move – wherein the US would charge other countries roughly half the tariff that nation charged the US.

Actor Sunny Deol visited the famous Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, on Wednesday to offer prayers for his upcoming film ‘Jaat’, which is set to release later this week.

The temple, located near the India-Pakistan border, is known for its spiritual significance and its history of surviving bombings during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.

During his visit, Deol was welcomed by Border Security Force DIG Yogendra Singh Rathore.

The actor, who spent quality time with soldiers, was also seen dancing with them to his hit song Main Nikla Gaddi Leke from Gadar, one of his most popular films.

Meanwhile, the trailer for his upcoming film Jaat was unveiled last month and shows Sunny Deol’s character, ‘JAAT’, locking horns with antagonist Randeep Hooda (Ranatunga). With this film, Sunny promises to bring the magic of his ‘dhaai kilo ka haath’ to impress the South audience after winning over the North.

“Ye dhai kilo ke haath ki taakat pura north dekh chuka hai. Ab south dekhega. (The north has already seen the power of this two-and-a-half-kilo arm. Now, the south will see it),” Sunny can be seen saying this at the end of the trailer, leaving fans nostalgic as the iconic dialogue was first used in Damini, for which Sunny won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1993.

The high-octane film is directed by Gopichand Malineni and produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory. It is set to hit theatres on April 10 and will be available in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil. (ANI)

The growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in music has been a hot topic in the industry, and now, popular playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya has shared his strong views on the matter.

In a conversation with ANI, the singer expressed his concern about how technology has replaced “real musicians” and claimed that it was composer AR Rahman who started the trend which led to musicians who used to play in films “losing their jobs.”

Abhijeet, while taking a dig at Rahman, said that the composer was the one who encouraged the industry to stop using live musicians.

“Baaki jo filmon mein musicians bajate the, woh ab berozgar hain — mostly thanks to Mr. Rahman. Unhone sabko bataya ki koi zarurat nahin musician ki… sab kuch laptop par ho sakta hai. (The musicians who used to play in films are now without jobs — mostly because of Rahman. He told everyone that musicians are not needed… everything can be done on a laptop.),” Abhijeet said.

“Unke wajah se sabko success mil gaya, bechare musicians ghar par baithe hain… Rahman saab ne bol diya ki bhai jitna kamaunga sirf main kamaunga, musicians ki zarurat nahin hai. (Because of him, everyone found success, but poor musicians are sitting at home…),” he added.

Criticizing the term “Artificial Intelligence”, Abhijeet said, “Artificial boliye, intelligent mat boliye… Mera jab bhi stage show hota hai, mere piche 20 musicians hote hain, hamesha. Aagey bhi honge. They are doing their best.”(Call it artificial, but don’t call it intelligent… Whenever I have a stage show, there are 20 musicians behind me, always. There will be more in the future too. They are doing their best.).

“Ab koi apna career nahin banaega music mein. Aap dhundhne jaaiye market mein, aapko milenge nahin musician. Aapko sitar wala nahin milega. Sab laptop par hi music kar rahe hain… ,” he added. (Now no one will build a career in music. Go search the market, you won’t find musicians. You won’t find a sitar player. Everyone is making music on laptops… ),” he added.

The popular singer has given the indian film industry several hits in the 90’s iconic films including Baadshah, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, Rakshak, Darr, Josh, Dhadkan, Raaz, Pyar To Hona Hi Tha, Khoobsurat, Na Tum Jano Na Hum, Kaho Na Pyar Hai, Tum Bin, and Jodi No 1. (ANI)

President Droupadi Murmu held a meeting with her Slovakian counterpart Peter Pellegrini in Bratislava on Wednesday. The two leaders reviewed various facets of bilateral ties and agreed to work towards strengthening the bilateral ties across various sectors.

In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “President Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn & President @PellegriniP_ held productive talks in Bratislava. The leaders reviewed various facets of India – Slovakia relations & agreed to work towards strengthening the bilateral partnership across diverse sectors.”

During the meeting with Pellegrini, President Murmu noted the rising popularity of Indian art and culture in Slovakia. She spoke about the immense potential for the two nations to collaborate more closely in the rapidly expanding media, entertainment and creative economy sectors of India. She invited Slovakia to participate actively in the upcoming WAVE Summit set to be hosted by India in Mumbai from May 1-4.

Both leaders witnessed the exchange of two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), one on cooperation in the field of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) between NSIC and the Slovak Business Agency and another on cooperation between SSIFS and the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

In a post on X, the President Secretariat stated, “President Droupadi Murmu discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and issues of shared global and regional interests with President Peter Pellegrini of the Slovak Republic during one-to-one meeting and delegation-level talks. The participants in delegation-level talks from Indian side included the accompanying Minister of State, Smt. Nimuben Bambhaniya as well as Members of Parliament, Shri Dhaval Patel and Smt. Sandhya Ray and senior officials. The President appreciated the personal commitment and initiative of President Pellegrini towards strengthening bilateral relations. Both leaders witnessed the exchange of two MoUs, one on cooperation in the field of MSMEs between NSIC and the Slovak Business Agency and another on cooperation between SSIFS and the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.”

“During her meeting with President of Slovak Republic H.E. Peter Pellegrini, President Murmu noted the rising popularity of Indian art and culture in Slovakia. She highlighted the immense potential for the two countries to collaborate more closely in the rapidly expanding media, entertainment and creative economy sectors of India, including promotion of Slovakia as a filming destination and a partner in joint film production. She invited Slovakia to take part actively in the upcoming WAVE Summit being hosted by India in Mumbai from 1st to 4th May, 2025,” it added.

Earlier in the day, President Murmu was received by President Peter Pellegrini at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava. President’s Secretariat said President Murmu was accorded a traditional welcome as per Slavic traditions and accorded Guard of Honour.

In a post on X, President’s Secretariat wrote, “President Droupadi Murmu was received by President Peter Pellegrini of the Slovak Republic at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava. She was extended a traditional Slovak welcome with bread and salt by a couple in folk dress. The President was accorded a ceremonial welcome with the Guard of Honour.”

President Murmu arrived in Slovakia at the invitation of Pellegrini. It is the first visit by an Indian president to Slovakia in 29 years. She arrived in Slovakia after completing the first leg of her visit in Portugal.

Earlier, President Murmu visited Portugal at the invitation of President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. “A fruitful State visit to Portugal concludes. President Droupadi Murmu emplanes for the next leg of her tour, Slovak Republic,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.

During her visit to Portugal, President Droupadi Murmu was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Portuguese Parliament, where she was warmly received by the President of Assembleia da Republica, Jose Pedro Aguiar-Branco.

During her visit to the Portuguese legislature, President Murmu met with the Portuguese delegation, signed the official book of honour, and held a meeting with the cabinet of the President of Assembleia da Republica, reaffirming the shared commitment between the two nations to deepen bilateral ties. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received an invitation from Russia for participation in Victory Day celebrations, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Wednesday.

Addressing a press briefing on Wednesday, Jaiswal said that India will announce participation in the Victory Day celebration at an appropriate time.

On Russia inviting PM Modi for Victory Day celebrations, Jaiswal said, “Our Prime Minister has received an invitation for the participation in the Victory Day celebrations. We will be announcing our participation in the Victory Day celebration at the appropriate time. As far as participation of Indian contingent is concerned, again, we will let you know as and when we have an update.”

Citing sources in the Indian government, TASS reported that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh may attend the Victory Day celebrations in the Russian capital Moscow on May 9.

“[Singh’s visit to Moscow for the parade] is possible,” the agency’s source said in response to a question on the matter. The Victory Day celebrations mark the Soviet victory over Germany in World War II.

Earlier in February, TASS reported that PM Modi is likely to visit Russia for the May 9 parade at Moscow’s Red Square to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic Wa.As per the military source cited by TASS, the visit by the PM has a “high probability.”

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi is planning a visit to the May 9 parade in Moscow. It is highly likely that it will take place,” the agency’s source said, TASS reported.

As per the military source cited by TASS, it was noted, “The issue of participation in the parade on Red Square of a ceremonial unit of the Indian armed forces, which should arrive at least a month [before the parade] for rehearsals, is also being worked out.”

PM Modi had visited Russia last year in October at the invitation of the Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the 16th BRICS Summit which took place in Kazan under the chairmanship of Russia. It was PM Modi’s second visit to Russia in 2024 as he travelled to Moscow in July to attend the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit.

During his visit to Russia, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Putin. PM Modi was also conferred with Russia’s highest civilian award, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle at the Kremlin in Moscow. (ANI)

Noting that VK Pandian has done a lot of good work for the state and the party, former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has said that the former bureaucrat-turned-politician left the BJD over 10 months back and should not be blamed for anything.

Patnaik also said that V Kartikeyan Pandian is not involved in party work.

Patnaik’s remarks have come over the row in the party on the split manner in which Biju Janata Dal MPs voted in Rajya Sabha on the Waqf Amendment Bill, which was later passed by Parliament and has become a law now. A section of the party had launched veiled attack on Pandian over the row.

“I want to state quite clearly that Kartikeyan Pandian, in the past, has done a lot of good work not only for the state but for the party. So, he shouldn’t be criticised or blamed for anything. Also, he left the party more than 10 months ago and is not involved in any of the party’s work,” Patnaik told reporters.

Patnaik, who is BJD chief, disapproved of large meetings in hotels held by party members.

“I would like to state here that I disapprove of any quite large meetings in hotels held by party members. They have the party office ‘Sankha Bhawan’, which is a large building where they have been told they should hold their meetings and they should do so. I also want to state here quite clearly that Pravat Tripathy, ex-MLA, was expelled from the BJD some years ago because he was indicted in the chit-fund case and has spent some years in jail,” Patnaik said.

BJD leader Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak on Wednesday said that there is no infighting in the party and MPs, MLAs and workers are united.

“There is no infighting at all. We all are working under the leadership of Naveen Patnaik. There is no question of division. All MPs, MLAs and workers are united. We always abide by the direction of our leader Naveen Patnaik. We are always secular. In the past it has been maintained by BJD and in the future also, we will continue with this stand,” Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak told ANI.

BJD leader Bhupinder Singh said that there is no groupism in the party. “Naveen Patnaik is the only leader and an outsider can not lead the party. The party won’t tolerate that…,” he told ANI.

BJD vice president Prasanna Acharya said on April 5 that the party will discuss the stance of the party over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. He said the party would hold discussions with Naveen Patnaik.

“We are a secular party, and we always stand with the minority of the country and the state. We are never interested in endangering the security and the interest of the minority of this country,” Acharya had said.

“Our party always opposed the Waqf amendment bill, but why our party’s stand changed at the last moment, we will have to discuss it,” he added.

BJD MP Sasmit Patra had said earlier that there is no whip on the Waqf bill.

“The Biju Janata Dal has always upheld the principles of secularism and inclusivity, ensuring the rights of all communities. We deeply respect the diverse sentiments expressed by different sections of the Minority communities regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Our Party, having taken these views into careful consideration, has entrusted our Hon’ble Members in the Rajya Sabha with the responsibility of exercising their conscience in the best interest of justice, harmony and the rights of all communities, should the Bill come up for voting. There is no Party Whip,” he posted on X. (ANI)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday pushed for a “one big beautiful bill” and told fellow Republicans “it is more important now than ever.” He assured the people of the US that America “will soar like never before.”

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump stated, “Republicans, it is more important now, than ever, that we pass THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL. The USA will Soar like never before!”

In a follow-up post on Truth Social, Trump stated that “it is imperative” that Republican lawmakers in the House pass the tax cut bill.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “It is IMPERATIVE that Republicans in the House pass the Tax Cut Bill, NOW! Our Country Will Boom!”

Trump even cited JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon’s statement on tariffs. “Fixing Trade and Tariffs is a good thing!” Jamie Dimon, JPMorgan Chase, Chairman & CEO, on Maria B Show,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

He urged people to remain cool as US will be “bigger and better than ever before.” In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “BE COOL! Everything is going to work out well. The USA will be bigger and better than ever before!”

Earlier on Tuesday, Trump urged Republican lawmakers of the House who are against the Senate-passed budget resolution to support the measure, urging them to “close your eyes and get there,” New York Post reported.

In his speech at the National Republican Congressional Committee’s annual dinner, Trump warned that it would be a “disaster” for Republicans and the US if the “one big, beautiful bill” important for implementing his economic agenda doesn’t make it out of the lower chamber. “They have to get there,” Trump said of the GOP holdouts.

“And I think we are there. We had a great meeting today. I think we are there,” Trump said. He further said, “But just in case there are a couple of Republicans not there – you just gotta get there, close your eyes and get there!”

Trump said, “It is a phenomenal bill. Stop grandstanding.”

At least 10 Republican lawmakers of the House have indicated they would not back the budget framework and a handful of others have slammed the resolution, New York Post reported, citing The Hill.

Hard-line conservatives have voiced concern that the Senate version of the bill urges lawmakers to make only USD 4 billion in spending cuts, while the House seeks at least USD 1.5 trillion in reductions. Some House Republican lawmakers have slammed the Senate for assuming that the extension of tax cuts implemented during Trump’s first term will not add to the federal deficit.

At the same event, US House Speaker Mike Johnson called the Senate bill as “one of the most consequential pieces of legislation that Congress has passed in decades – and perhaps in the history of the Congress.” The bill is considered important to quickly passing legislat ion connected to several promises made by Trump during the presidential campaign, including extending the 2017 tax cuts and eliminating taxes on tipped wages, New York Post reported.

In his remarks, Johnson said that the new seven-seat Republican majority in the House “means that we can lose three votes now and still pass a bill.” He joked, “It’s an embarrassment of riches.” Johnson said, “I tell you, this job is so easy.”

Trump said that the recently announced tariff policy would put pressure on Republican lawmakers to vote in favour of the bill. He said that countries affected by US tariffs are eager to negotiate and make deals with him, offering to do anything to secure an agreement. While speaking at the National Republican Congressional Committee, Trump said he was a better negotiator than Congress.

He said, “I’m telling you- these countries are calling us up, kissing my a**. They are dying to make a deal- ‘please sir make a deal, I’ll do anything, I’ll do anything sir'”.Trump’s comments were made in the context of his administration’s tariff policies, particularly with countries like China. He emphasized his ability to negotiate better deals than Congress, citing China’s 104 per cent tariffs as an example. (ANI)

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday addressed the ongoing trade discussions with the United States, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighting the efforts towards a mutually beneficial trade agreement.

In response to recent tariff announcements, Jaiswal reiterated that India is carefully studying the implications and engaging in reciprocal discussions with the US trade teams.

While addressing a weekly press briefing on Wednesday, Jaiswal said, “On the 3rd, we had a detailed press release issued by the Ministry of Commerce, in which India’s position was made clear. We are studying the implications of the tariffs that have been announced.”

He added, “Reciprocal tariffs and discussions are ongoing between India and US Trade teams for an expeditious conclusion of a mutually beneficial multi-sectoral bilateral trade agreement. India values its comprehensive global strategic partnership with the US and is committed to working closely with it… Both teams are in discussion and hopefully we can close it.”

On being asked about the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, Jaiswal stated, “You all are aware that Supreme Court rejected his plea. As far as extradition of Rana is concerned, at this point, I don’t have an update. But, we will provide you the update at an appropriate time.”

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar responded to the debate over tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.

Speaking at the News 18 Rising Bharat Summit, Jaishankar said that India’s strategy was clear and that it would engage with the United States on a bilateral trade agreement, which could conclude by the fall of this year. Jaishankar said that India’s strategy has been to engage with the US in fructifying the bilateral trade agreement.

The EAM noted that as every country is tariffed, each is fashioning its own strategy to deal with the US.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) said that countries affected by US tariffs are eager to negotiate and make deals with him, offering to do anything to secure an agreement. While speaking at the National Republican Congressional Committee, Trump said he was a better negotiator than Congress.

Earlier on Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and EAM Jaishankar discussed US tariffs on India following President Trump’s announcement last week about imposing a 10 per cent tariff on all imports to the US. The US has imposed 26 per cent tariffs on Indian imports. (ANI)

Fifteen new inmates at Haridwar district jail in Uttarakhand were found HIV positive during a routine check-up, authorities said on Wednesday.

The routine health checks are part of standard procedures for all new entrants to the facility.

Haridwar Jail Superintendent Manoj Kumar Arya said that on April 7, health check-ups, including HIV tests, were conducted for all new inmates.

“Whenever a new inmate enters the jail, a health check-up is conducted. HIV testing is also mandatory, and currently, we have about 15 inmates who are HIV positive,” Arya told reporters.

Following the test results, the 15 HIV-positive prisoners are receiving proper medical care, he added.

Earlier in December 2024, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda inaugurated the World AIDS Day 2024 commemoration at the Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya Auditorium in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore.

The Minister highlighted that India’s sustained efforts have maintained a low HIV epidemic level over the years, with new infections in 2023 almost 44 per cent lower than in 2010, and AIDS-related deaths reduced by 79 per cent.

This year’s theme, “Take the Rights Path,” underscores the importance of ensuring equal rights, dignity, and access to healthcare for all, especially those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.

Reflecting this, Nadda emphasised the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of people with HIV/AIDS through legal protections, healthcare access, and societal reforms.

He said, “World AIDS Day is a moment to reiterate that we are all united in the fight against AIDS and to remember and honour those who have battled this disease and lost loved ones.”

Nadda highlighted the ongoing Phase V of the National AIDS and STD Control Programme and the consistent efforts of NACO and State AIDS Control Societies in ensuring low epidemic levels. He reiterated that new HIV infections in 2023 were 44 per cent lower than in 2010, while AIDS-related deaths had fallen by 79 per cent.

The Minister outlined three key directives in the fight against AIDS. First, he stressed caution in preventing HIV/AIDS infections, noting that the virus can be transmitted through various means beyond sexual contact. Second, he advocated a healthy lifestyle, encompassing proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep, to prevent illnesses. Third, he urged increased awareness and efforts to combat stereotypes through village meetings, school programmes, and educational campaigns. He called on authorities to evaluate the effectiveness of AIDS control initiatives and address any shortcomings.

Nadda also emphasised the importance of treating HIV-positive individuals with empathy, stating that everyone has the right to a dignified life. He dispelled myths, asserting that HIV-positive individuals can live long and healthy lives and even have HIV-free children. He praised healthcare workers for their dedication and resilience despite constant exposure to infections, stressing the need to support them.

The Minister acknowledged India’s progress in the fight against AIDS, from an era without treatment to becoming a global supplier of affordable HIV medicines. He noted that the Union government provides free medication for AIDS patients and highlighted India’s leadership in producing effective treatments.

Nadda reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. He stated that India has adopted the 90-90-90 target for combating AIDS–90 per cent case detection, 90 per cent antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, and 90 per cent viral load suppression. This target has been updated to 95-95-95, with 81 per cent of cases identified, 88 per cent on ART, and 97 per cent achieving viral load suppression. (ANI)

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday announced the withdrawal of the transshipment facility previously extended to Bangladesh, citing logistical challenges and congestion at Indian ports and airports.

Addressing the weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “The Transshipment facility extended to Bangladesh had over a period of time resulted in significant congestion at our airports and ports. Logistical delays and higher costs were hindering our own exports and creating backlogs.”

“The facility, therefore, has been withdrawn with effect from April 8, 2025. To clarify, these measures do not impact Bangladesh exports to Nepal or Bhutan transiting through Indian territory,” the MEA spokesperson added.

Notably, a 13-member delegation from Bangladesh visited India from July 9 to 12, 2024, to explore the possibilities of transhipment of Bangladeshi Exim cargo through Indian ports located on the East Coast. The delegation was led by S M Mostafa Kamal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Shipping, Bangladesh, and included representatives from other key Bangladeshi ministries and ports.

Earlier, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, in a release, said that Agenda no. 6 in the agreed minutes of SSLT was moved by the Indian side to facilitate Bangladesh’s Exim cargo through Indian Ports on the East Coast using the Coastal Shipping Agreement and Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT) Agreement between India and Bangladesh.

The Bangladeshi delegation had identified several bottlenecks in Exim trade using Indian ports. In response, the Indian side agreed to provide comprehensive data analysis and comparisons and demonstrated the benefits for Bangladeshi exporters and importers in using Indian ports over existing transhipment ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Port Klang.

During the press briefing, MEA spokesperson Jaiswal also raised broader concerns regarding bilateral relations with Bangladesh, particularly the treatment of minorities and issues surrounding the Teesta Water Treaty.

Speaking on the situation of minorities in Bangladesh, Jaiswal emphasised the need for urgent and firm action. “We have conveyed our concerns regarding the treatment of minorities, the kind of violence that has happened against them…These violence and atrocities against minorities cannot be wished away…We hope that the Bangladesh government will take strong action against those responsible for these atrocities,” he said.

Regarding the Teesta Water Treaty, Jaiswal reiterated India’s commitment to dialogue, stressing that such discussions must be based on mutual consent and a conducive environment.

“There are 54 rivers shared between India and Bangladesh. To discuss all relevant water issues, we have a mechanism, a bilateral mechanism, called the Joint Rivers Commission. We are ready to discuss all issues provided that they are mutually agreed upon and provided that the overall environment is conducive for the same,” he said.

Earlier on April 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on Friday and reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh.

PM Modi underlined India’s concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Bangladesh government would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them, according to an MEA release.

In a press release, the MEA stated, “Prime Minister reiterated India’s support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Enunciating India’s people-centric approach to the relationship, the Prime Minister highlighted that cooperation between the two countries has brought tangible benefits to the people of both countries. He underlined India’s desire to forge a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh based on pragmatism.” (ANI)