FRIDAY JULY 12, 2024 INDIA THIS WEEK 1 A W e e k l y N e w s p a p e r Fe a t u r i n g N e w s & Tr e n d s f r o m t h e I n d i a n S u b - C o n t i n e n t P u b l i s h e d f r o m t h e U S C a p i t a l Website: www.indiathisweek.online Vol 33 No: 28 WASHINGTON DC • Phone: 301-445-0200 /301-445-3543/301-917-4800 • email: indiathisweekads@gmail.com • Friday July 12, 2024 PM Modi, President Putin discuss ways to diversify India-Russia cooperation Moscow [Russia], July 9 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin and discussed ways to diversify cooperation between the two nations in various sectors like trade, commerce, security, agriculture, technology, commerce and innovation. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “Held productive discussions with President Putin at the Kremlin today. Our talks covered ways to diversify India–Russia cooperation in sectors such as trade, commerce, security, agriculture, technology and innovation. We attach great importance to boosting connectivity and people-topeople exchanges.” Before the meeting, PM Modi spoke about his informal meeting with Putin on Monday. He spoke about the issues that were discussed during the meeting. He noted that the talks between the two nations have been going on for 25 years. However, the attention of the entire world is focused on his visit to Russia. PM Modi said, “The bilateral talks between the two nations have been going on for 25 years. We have met 22 times. This is such a meeting that the focus of the entire world is on this visit of mine. The entire world is drawing out different meanings of this visit.” Speaking about his meeting with Putin at the President’s House, PM INDIA-RUSSIA SEE PAGE 6 ENDS SEPTEMBER 3 SOMETIMES DRIVER’S SIDE BEATS POOLSIDE LEXUS.COM Soak up Summer from behind the wheel at the Golden Opportunity Sales Event. Don’t let the season slip away without finding your dream Lexus. But hurry—the offers on select models won’t last. ©2024 Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Killing of innocent people is unacceptable”: PM Modi Vienna [Austria], July 10 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday emphasised the importance of “dialogue and diplomacy” in resolving global conflicts, particularly the ongoing war in Ukraine. “I have said earlier also that this is not the time for war,” said PM Modi addressing the India-Austria joint press statement. His remarks came after delegationlevel talks with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer at the Federal Chancellery in Vienna. “We won’t be able to find a solution to problems in the warfield. Wherever it is, killing of innocent people is unacceptable. India and Austria emphasize dialogue and diplomacy, and for that, we are together ready to give any support required,” PM Modi also said. Austrian Chancellor Nehammer echoed PM Modi‘s sentiments, highlighting the strong relationship between Austria and India. “There is a very good relationship between India and Austria. It’s a relationship of trust which began in the 1950s... India helped Austria and in 1955, the negotiations came to a positive conclusion with the Austrian State Treaty. What unites India and Austria is concern over the development of the geopolitical situation,” he said. Nehammer elaborated on the discussions held with PM Modi, stating, “Last night and this morning, we had very intensive talks about the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. For me, as the Federal Chancellor of Austria, it is particularly important to get to know India’s assessment and to understand it and familiarise India with European concerns and worries. Moreover, the conflict in the Middle East was a major topic, and in addition to this challenging geopolitical situation, we also referred to the positive aspects of our cooperation.” The issue of killings of children during conflicts was also featured prominently in the PM Modi‘s bilateral meeting with President Vladimir Putin of Russia.
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July 12, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK PM Modi awarded with Russia’s highest civilian honour New Delhi [India], July 9 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ceremoniously presented with the Order of St Andrew the Apostle the First-Called, Russia’s highest civilian honour, at St Catherine’s Hall of the Moscow Kremlin on Tuesday. Notably, the award was bestowed on PM Modi in the year 2019, but he received it physically today. Russian President Vladimir Putin presented the award to PM Modi, for his distinguished contribution to the development of a privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly ties between the two countries. “It is a testimony to Russia’s sincere gratitude to the sincere contribution you are making to strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between our nations...you have always advocated broader contacts with our country. Back when you were Chief Minister of Gujarat, you came up with the initiative of twinning your state with Russian regions,” President Putin said while conferring the award. “Dear friend, from the bottom of my heart, I would like to congratulate you for this highest Russian award and wish you good health, success and all the best. To the friendly people of India, I wish peace and prosperity,” he added. He also highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s role in elevating India-Russia ties to the level of strategic partnership and said both nations are working for global and regional security. “You have been at the helm of the Indian government for 10 years. You have genuinely strived to elevate the RussianIndian relation to the level of special and privileged strategic partnership. With your direct support, Russia and India are implementing large-scale trade, economic...nuclear and hydrocarbon energy in high-tech and space exploration,” Putin said. He added, “Your contribution to building a resilient framework for Russian-Indian cooperation in the international arena, where both of our nations are defending the principles of multipolarity...working for the sake of stability, global and regional security, and working closely within the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.” The Order was established in 1698 by Tsar Peter the Great, in honour of Saint Andrew, the first apostle of Jesus and patron saint of Russia. It is only awarded for the most outstanding civilian or military merit. The Russian Embassy in India had in 2019 said, “On April 12, @narendramodi was decorated with the Order of St Andrew the Apostle for exceptional services in promoting special & privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly relations between the Russian and Indian peoples. @mfa_russia @MEAIndia @IndEmbMoscow”. The Russian President had then appreciated PM Modi on being conferred the award and recalled his outstanding achievements in promoting partnership with Russia Moscow [Russia], July 10 (ANI): Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Russia, calling it a success, adding that he stated the two leaders discussed almost each and every issue mentioned on the agenda including cooperation in global organizations like G20, BRICS, and the UN. While speaking to ANI, Sergey Lavrov mentioned Russia‘s support for India to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. “I think the visit was very successful. They discussed each and every issue on the bilateral agenda. They discussed the international situation, our cooperation in G20, BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, in the United Nations, where we support the Indian interest to become a permanent member of the Security Council, like we do for Brazil and African candidates,” said Lavrov. Futher, Lavrov also highlighted the longstanding relationship between PM Modi and President Putin, spanning over 20 years, which has fostered a deep understanding between them. He expressed confidence that the visit will significantly enhance relations between the two nations in all areas. “And I think they understood each other always because they have been acquainted for more than 20 years. So the chemistry is there, the understanding of the tasks on the bilateral agenda and on the issues related to international policies, absolutely the same. And I am sure this visit will give a very positive push for the relations in all areas,” Lavrov said to ANI. Following this, Russia‘s First Deputy Prime Minister, Denis Manturov, has praised the robust relationship between Russia and India, citing the close bond between the two leaders, PM Modi and Vladimir Putin. “The level of relations, especially the relations between two leaders can be seen. The main honour that has been awarded to PM Modi is a significant moment in confirmation of the friendship between our countries and between the leaders of our countries,” Denis Manturov said to ANI Further, he noted that various sectors of the economy are benefiting from cooperation, including education, with over 20,000 Indian students studying in Russia, mostly in medical universities. Manturov emphasized that the partnership is growing in all areas, not just trade. “If we are talking about the sectors of the economy, in a wide list of spheres and sectors where “Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of St Andrew for outstanding achievements in promoting partnership with Russia,” he stated on X. To this, PM Modi replied that the foundation of the friendship between the two countries is deep and the future of the partnership is bright. “Honoured to receive this prestigious award. I thank President Putin and the people of Russia. The foundations of India-Russia friendship are deep & the future of our partnership is bright. Extensive cooperation between our nations has led to extraordinary outcomes for our citizens,” he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is on an official visit to Russia. He held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, he along with Russian we can see the result of cooperation... A lot of students from India study in Russia, more than 20,000 and especially 14,000 from them in medical universities... We can say that not only the trade is growing, but all other spheres of activity is also developing and in demand.” said Denis Manturov. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on an official visit to Russia and Austria held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday. Notably, PM Modi and Putin have met 16 times over the past 10 years. The last in-person meeting between the two leaders took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand in 2022. (ANI) “All issues on bilateral agenda discussed”: Russian Foreign Minister praises PM Modi’s visit, calls it successful President Vladimir Putin visited the Rosatom Pavilion at the VDNKh Exhibition Centre in Moscow. The Rosatom Pavilion is an expositional and educational complex with the largest and most modern exposition in Russia dedicated to nuclear energy. PM Modi also addressed the Indian community in Moscow. He spoke about the ties between India and Russia and the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening them. He also announced the opening of Indian Consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg. The Prime Minister stressed the ties between India and Russia are giving new energy to Global Prosperity. He also praised the Indian community for giving new heights to the ties between India and Russia. Earlier on Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal meeting at the President’s House. On Monday, PM Modi reached in Moscow for a two-day official visit at the invitation of Russian President Putin to attend the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit. PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the airport and Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov received PM Modi at the Vnukovo-II Airport. Notably, PM Modi and Putin have met 16 times over the past 10 years. The last in-person meeting between the two leaders took place on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand in 2022. (ANI)
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July 12, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK PM Modi, President Putin discuss ways to diversify India-Russia cooperation INDIA-RUSSIA FROM PAGE 1 Modi stated, “You invited me to your residence and as a true friend, we stayed together for 4-5 hours and talked about many issues. I was happy that we were able to discuss our thoughts about Ukraine with an open mind and with great respect. We tried to respectfully understand each other’s thoughts.” Noting that terrorism is “horrible and disgusting”, PM Modi highlighted India has been facing the menace for over 40 years and said that he can imagine “how deep the pain is” when terror incidents occurred in Dagestan. PM Modi strongly condemned all kinds of terrorism during his bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “In the last 40-50 years, India has been facing terrorism. How horrible and disgusting terrorism is, we have been facing for the last 40 years. So, when terror incidents occurred in Moscow, when terror incidents occurred in Dagestan, I can imagine how deep its pain would be. I strongly condemn all kinds of terrorism,” PM Modi said during his bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Stressing that there is no solution in the battlefield, PM Modi said, “As a friend, I have always said that for the future of our new generation, peace is the most important thing. But I also know that there is no solution in the battlefield. Peace talks do not succeed between bombs, guns and bullets. And we have to use the means of talks to adopt the path of peace.” PM Modi said that everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is a loss of lives. He further stated that it is “heart-wrenching” when innocent children are dying. PM Modi said, “Be it war, conflicts, terror attacks – everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is loss of lives. But when innocent children are murdered, when we see innocent children dying, it is heart-wrenching. That pain is immense. I also held a detailed discussion with From The Poet’s Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- July 5, 2024 The Guy in the Glass by Dale Wimbrow When you get what you want in your struggle for pelf, And the world makes you King for a day, Then go to the mirror and look at yourself, And see what that guy has to say. For it isn’t your Father, or Mother, or Wife, Who judgement upon you must pass. The feller whose verdict counts most in your life Is the guy staring back from the glass. He’s the feller to please, never mind all the rest, For he’s with you clear up to the end, And you’ve passed your most dangerous, difficult test If the guy in the glass is your friend. You may be like Jack Horner and “chisel” a plum, And think you’re a wonderful guy, But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum If you can’t look him straight in the eye. You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years, And get pats on the back as you pass, But your final reward will be heartaches and tears If you’ve cheated the guy in the glass. Peter Dale Wimbrow (1895–1954) was an American composer, radio artist, and writer. you over this.” Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Rosatom Pavilion at the VDNKh Exhibition Centre in Moscow. Russia‘s First Deputy Prime Minister, Denis Manturov, accompanied the two leaders, during the visit at Rosatom Pavilion. After his visit to the Pavilion, PM Modi on X stated, “Visited the Atom Pavilion with President Putin. Energy is an important pillar of cooperation between India and Russia and we are eager to further cement ties in this sector.” Putin welcomed PM Modi at the venue and the two leaders warmly greeted each other. The two leaders then took a tour of the Rosatom Pavilion at VDNKH. PM Modi was seen interacting with the officials. In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “PM @narendramodi accompanied by President Vladimir Putin of Russia visited the Atom Pavilion at the VDNKh Exhibition centre in Moscow. The Pavilion showcases the developments in the field of science and technology. Cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear technology is an important pillar of the multifaceted cooperation between India and Russia.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Russia, also laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow. In a post on X, Randhir Jaiswal stated, “A solemn homage to the brave! PM @narendramodi laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow, saluting valour, sacrifice and indomitable human courage.” PM Modi also addressed the Indian community in Moscow. He spoke about the ties between India and Russia and the contribution of the Indian diaspora in strengthening them. He also announced the opening of Indian Consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg. INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online PM Modi arrived in Moscow for an official visit on Monday where he was received by Denis Manturov, the first Deputy Prime Minister of Russia and was accorded a ceremonial welcome. Indian community gave PM Modi a warm welcome at the hotel. India-Russia agreement has provided stability to global fuel market: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday and later lauded the fuel agreement between the two countries, saying it had helped bring stability to the global market. Emphasising longstanding India-Russia ties, PM Modi said that he met President Putin 17 times in the last 10 years. Western countries have imposed sanctions on Russia in the wake Russia-Ukraine conflict that began in 2022. India has continued to purchase oil from Russia in ‘national interest’ to keep domestic prices stable. “There was a great challenge of fuel before the world. At a time like this, with your cooperation, we were able to save the common public from difficulties pertaining to petrol-diesel. Not only this, the world will have to accept that the agreement regarding fuel between India and Russia, indirectly gave market stability in the world,” he said. PM Modi thanked President Putin for praising ‘Make in India’ initiative and helping in expanding manufacturing opportunities in India. “As a friend, you have praised our ‘Make in India’ initiative at multiple forums...you have also taken steps to promote manufacturing in India. This has created new opportunities for youth and opened new arenas of development,” he added. Remember: The Prime Minister also emphasised that the cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow didn’t let farmers face the crisis of fertilisers. “The last five years were very concerning, challenging for the entire world, and all of humankind. We had to go through several problems. First, due to COVID and later the era of conflicts and tensions in various parts caused several issues for humankind,” PM Modi said. “Even in such a situation, when the world was facing a food-fuel– fertiliser crisis, due to India-Russia friendship and cooperation, we did not let the farmers of our country face a crisis of fertiliser... Our friendship has played a huge role towards this. We are committed to the interest of farmers. In the days to come, we would want our cooperation with Russia to further advance in the interest of farmers,” he added. Prime Minister Modi recalled the age-long India-Russia ties and noted that his visit to Russia is being closely watched by the world. “I have had ties with Russia as well as you (Putin) since the past twodecades-and-half decades. In about 10 years, we have met 17 times. In the last 25 years, we have had around 22 bilateral meetings. This reflects the depth of our relations,” PM Modi said. “The bilateral dialogue between our two nations happens every year. We have met 22 times. But this meeting is such that the world is focused on it, and drawing meanings out of every element of this meeting,” he added. He also appreciated discussions with President Putin regarding the Ukraine conflict “I am happy that we were able to openly lay our thoughts on the Ukraine issue, were able to discuss it and tried to understand each other’s opinion with due respect,” PM Modi said. “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
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July 12, 2024 Friday INDIA THIS WEEK Indian Christians Celebrate ‘Indian Christian Day’ in Greater Washington Area GT Andy Silver Spring, MD: For the Indian Christian Community in the Washington Metro Region, June 29, 2024 will be etched in Golden letters, for holding the inaugural celebration of the ‘Indian Christian Day’ (ICD), regionally known as Yeshu Bhakti Divas (YBD) which commemorates the day the Gospel of Christ reached India through Apostle Thomas. T r a d i t i o n a l l y, Churches across the Kerala Christian Diaspora hold special worship services on July 3, featuring prayers, hymns, and sermons that reflect on Apostle Thomas’ arrival in India. This unique intra-church event, deeply rooted in Indian Christian traditions. The event was held at the Southern Asia Seventh-Day Adventist Church(SASDAC) marking a significant milestone for the Indian Christian community in the region. Yeshu Bhakti Divas (YBD), meaning “Devotion to Jesus Day,” is designed to celebrate the day the Gospel reached India 2000 years ago through Apostle St. Thomas. According to Christian tradition, Apostle Thomas traveled to India in 52 AD, spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ. His journey to the Indian subcontinent is considered a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity, as it represents one of the earliest The event commenced with an All Pastors Prayer, (from left to right): Rev. Neal Christie of Fiacona, Rev. Rufus Bhimanapalli of TCFVA, Rev. Prabhakar Kanapala of Hosanna Ministries, Rev. Biaka Changte of Chaplain of Adventist Hospital, Rev. Dr. Samuel Devraj Perumal of ICD India, Rev. Dr. Devadosan Sugitharaj of In Christ Washington Church, Rev. John Daniel, Senior Pastor, SASDAC, Rev. Mohan Marapaka of Memorial First India United Methodist Church, Rev. Alex Joseph of Catholic University. instances of the faith being introduced to a distant land outside the Roman Empire. Apostle Thomas is credited with establishing several Christian communities along the Malabar Coast in the present-day state of Kerala. These communities, known as the ‘St. Thomas Christians’ or ‘Nasranis’, are among the oldest Christian groups in the world. They have maintained a continuous presence in India for nearly two millennia. Indian Christian Day aims to honor and celebrate this rich legacy, acknowledging the profound impact that the arrival of the Gospel has had on Indian culture, society, and spirituality. It serves as a reminder of the enduring faith and resilience of Indian Christians throughout history. The introduction of Christianity to India led to a unique integration of local customs and traditions with Christian beliefs. This syncretism has resulted in a distinctive Indian Christian culture that blends elements of Indian heritage with the Christian faith. The ICD Mr. Elisha Pulivarti, President of the US India SME Council awarded the US President Joseph Biden Lifetime Achievement to Mr. Andy Swarna of Great Truth and the Gold Medallion to Rev. Neal Christie of Fiacona. celebration was a vibrant display of faith and heritage, featuring guest speakers and activities that highlighted the community’s contributions to society. Multilingual gospel songs in English, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi showcased the rich musical traditions and linguistic diversity of Indian Christians. The event underscored the unique cultural and spiritual heritage of Indian Christianity, welcoming believers from various regions and backgrounds. It began with an all pastors prayer Pastors from various denominations came together to lead the congregation in prayer. This segment underscored the dedication of ‘Indian Christian Day’ as a significant cultural event for the diaspora. It highlighted the commitment of the Indian Christian community to preserving and celebrating their cultural heritage, faith, and contributions to society. The event’s activities and participation demonstrated the diaspora’s unity and the importance they place on commemorating their shared history and traditions. The speakers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives added depth to the celebration, resonating with attendees from different walks of life. They included Fr. Alex Joseph, (Keynote Speaker) from Changanacherry Archdiocese, Kerala, shared remarks on Indian Christian contributions to Healthcare and Medicine and provided insights into the historical and contemporary impacts of Indian Christians in these vital sectors. The address emphasized the enduring legacy of service and compassion inspired by Christian teachings. Rev. Mohan Marapaka of Memorial First India United Methodist Church, Rev. Dr. Devadosan Sugitharaj of In Christ Washington Church, Dr. Gladwin Matthews, Assistant Professor, Dean of Men & Counseling, Rev. Rufus Bhimanapalli of Telugu Christian Fellowship VA, Ronald Ninala, Chairman of the Board of the Southern Asia Adventist Association. On this occasion, SASDAC’s musical program featured performances by Mr. Douglas, Ms. Grace Darla, Hope Side Community, Hosanna Ministries and Sunu Eapen of Washington Pentecostal Assembly. T h e i r contributions included piano performances and songs that added a delightful musical dimension to the event, enriching the celebration with their talent and dedication. Additional highlight of the event was when Mr. Elisha Pulivarti, President of the US India SME Council awarded the US President Joseph Biden Lifetime Achievement to Mr. Andy Swarna of Great Truth and the Gold Medallion to Rev. Neal Christie of Fiacona, adding a prestigious touch to the occasion. Andy Swarna and Rev. Neal were als honored with memento and traditional clothes by Rev. Dr. Samuel Devraj Perumal. Delegate Pamela Queen graced the Indian Christian Day event, lending her presence and support to the celebration. Her participation highlighted the event’s significance and underscored the community’s commitment to cultural diversity and unity. The success of Indian Christian Day was made possible through the collective efforts of many individuals and organizations. Their dedication, along with the support of various church leaders and volunteers, ensured that the celebration was a memorable and meaningful experience for all attendees.
FRIDAY JULY 12, 2024 9 SALE ENDS JULY 30-2024 US wants India to use its “special partnership” with Russia to stop Ukraine conflict: US official Wa s h i n g t o n DC [US], July 10 (ANI): The United States wants India to use its “special partnership” with Russia to put “pressure” on Moscow to stop the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and work for a durable peace in the region, US State Department Hindustani spokesperson, Margaret MacLeod said. The US official also reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s famous quote “This is not an era of war” which the PM had told Russian President Vladimir Putin during the SCO Summit in Bali in 2022. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, MacLeod said, “The US is urging all its partners, including India to pressurise Russia for lasting peace in Ukraine. Russia should get out of Ukraine, This is not the era of war, as Prime Minister (PM Modi) has said. “ “India and Russia share a very special partnership. We wish India use this special partnership to pressurise Russia (against the war)...Russia’s war in Ukraine is a violation of the UN Charter,” she added. Being asked about how the US and the West view India’s stand on the Ukraine conflict, the US official said, “It would be better if you ask the Indian government about India’s stand.” “But from America’s perspective, Russia is violating the sovereignty of Ukraine. It is attacking the civilian infrastructure. Just yesterday, we saw the attack on children’s hospital, where there were no Ukrainian soldiers...this is against the UN Charter and international law,” she added. Over 40 children were killed in missile strikes at a children’s hospital in the Ukrainian capital on Monday. Kyiv has blamed Moscow for the attack. Regarding the ongoing NATO Summit in Washington DC, MacLeod said the alliance aims to discuss the vision for the next 75 years in this meeting. She also said that announcements of relief packages for Ukraine will be made during the summit. “At this NATO Summit, we are celebrating 75 years of peace, unity, development and innovation, and will discuss on the preparations for the next 75 years,” the US official said. “Most NATO members are in Europe, right where the Russia-Ukraine war is ongoing, because of which it is a very serious issue for them (European NATO members)...A big relief package for Ukraine will be announced. We will also get an announcement by Germany for setting up a coordination cell,” she added. The NATO Summit is being held from July 9-11 in Washington DC. The summit has come at a crucial time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which started in February 2022, has intensified and also when some cracks have emerged in NATO amid scepticism among some European partners and comments by former US President Donald Trump against the alliance. This is also the first NATO Summit after the inclusion of two new member states — Finland and Sweden. Speaking on the USD 60 dollar price cap put on the purchase of Russian crude oil, the US official said that the price cap has helped in “reducing” Russia’s earnings and it wants to further lessen the resources at Moscow’s disposal. “We want to want as less resources as possible to reach Russia because it is using the same earnings to attack Ukraine. The price cap has impacted Russia’s earnings, but as long as it (Russia) is able to earn, it will continue to attack Ukraine...so we want to reduce its gains as much as possible,” MacLeod further said. Notably, despite pressure from Western countries, India has continued to purchase crude oil from Russia under the price cap, which several government ministers and officials have said, has helped in keeping domestic prices of petrol and diesel stable. Further, speaking on India-US ties, the US official said that the ties between the two countries is very strong, and added that Wa s h i n g t o n wants to strengthen its ties with New Delhi further. “We see there are deep relations between India and the US, we are engaging on so many issues...sometimes we have differences in perspectives, but we have a free, frank and open dialogue with each other. We are very positive about our relationship... our government wants to strengthen our bilateral relationship further,” she said. Being asked where the India-US relations are headed as it is an election year in the US, MacLeod said she can’t comment on her country’s domestic politics but affirmed that “historically, both parties (Republican and Democrat) have worked to strengthen relations with India.” Prime Minister Modi went on a state visit to the US in June last year. Following this, President Joe Biden came to India for the G20 Summit last year. The Quad Summit between the two nations is also expected to be held later this year in India. (ANI)
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