Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of State visits Sweden

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
01-June, 2017 16:41 IST
President of India congratulates Mr. Aleksandar Vucic on his assumption of office as President of Serbia

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has congratulated His Excellency Mr. Aleksandar Vucic on his assumption of office of President of the Republic of Serbia.

In his message, the President has said, “Please accept my warm felicitations on your assumption of office as the President of the Republic of Serbia following your landslide victory in the Presidential elections held on 2nd April, 2017.

India values its relations with Serbia which are historic and time-tested. Our bilateral relations are marked by mutual trust and support to each other on issues of core interest. I am confident that working together we will be able to realize the full potential of our relationship which received a major boost during your recent visit to India.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes for your good health and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Serbia”.

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Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
01-June, 2017 11:03 IST
Shri S.S. Ahluwalia leads Indian Parliamentary Delegation to Sweden

Delegation seeks Swedish support for the Global Convention against International Terrorism at the UN

Shri Ahluwalia thanks Sweden for its consistent and unequivocal support to India’s candidature to the expanded permanent membership of the UNSC and NSG

Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, led anIndian Parliamentary delegation on a three-day visit to Sweden for promoting and strengthening parliamentary relations between the two countries.The visit, which concluded late last night, is expected to re-energize the existing high-level contacts between India and Sweden and further strengthen bilateral relations.

During the visit, the Indian delegation met Swedish Minister for Policy Coordination and Energy, Mr. Ibrahim Baylan, the Speaker of the Riksdag (Swedish Parliament), Mr. Urban Ahlin, and Foreign Minister Ms. Margot Wallström.

Shri Ahluwalia, in his meetings with the Swedish dignitaries, thanked Sweden for its consistent and unequivocal support to India’s candidature to the expanded permanent membership of the UN Security Council (UNSC) and membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). He expressed satisfaction at the continued strengthening of bilateral relations and underlined importance of Parliamentary relations between the two democracies, including upcoming visit of the Speaker of Swedish Riksdag to India.

The Minister further discussed the entire gamut of bilateral political and economic relations in addition to other issues of global concern. He emphasized on the threat posed by international terrorism globally, especially in the South Asian region, and the need for the international community to join hands to combat this global menace, including its state-sponsorship and funding. Shri Ahluwalia stressed that these perpetrators of terror were not small-time anarchists but rather they were well-educated, well-motivated, well-trained, well-armed, well-connected and well-funded terrorists. The Minister sought Swedish support for the Global Convention against International Terrorism at the UN.

The Ministerial delegation, during the visit, also visited Swedish Parliament and met Ms. Asa Coenraads, Chairman of the India-Sweden Parliamentary Association in the Riksdag, who was joined by a couple of other Parliamentarians. A dozen other Swedish Parliamentarians and officials also participated in the luncheon interaction hosted by Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Swedish Parliament, Mr. Kenneth G. Forslund, and exchanged views and information on a wide range of issues of mutual interest.

The Indian delegation also interacted with the Indian Diaspora in Sweden, representatives of Swedish Parliament, Government, business community and industry at a reception, hosted by Indian Ambassador Ms. Monika Kapil Mohta during the visit. During the reception, the delegation was also given a presentation on India-Sweden economic relations by the Chairman of the Sweden-India Business Council.

The Parliamentary delegation, among others, comprised nine Members of Parliament – Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, MP(LS), BJD; Shri Amdayala Paddu Jithender Reddy, MP(LS),TRS; Shri Chandrakant Bhaurao Khaire, MP(LS), Shiv Sena; Shri Ram Kumar Verma, MP(RS), BJP; Shri Manchacheri Kuppadakkath Raghavan, MP(LS), INC; Shri Palanivel Kumar, MP(LS), AIADMK; Shri Chintakunta Munaiah Ramesh, MP(RS), TDP; Shri Mohammed Faizal Padippura, MP (LS),NCP; and Shri Yerram Venkata Subba Reddy, MP(LS), YSRCP – and Shri Rajiv Yadav, Secretary, Parliamentary Affairs.




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The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia meeting the Swedish Minister for Policy Coordination and Energy, Mr. Ibrahim Baylan, in Stockholm, Sweden on May 29, 2017.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, meeting the Swedish Minister for Policy Coordination and Energy, Mr. Ibrahim Baylan, in Stockholm, Sweden on May 29, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Sweden, Ms. Monika Kapil Mohta and the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Yadav are also seen.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, meeting the Swedish Foreign Minister Ms. Margot Wallstrom, in Stockholm, Sweden on May 30, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Sweden, Ms. Monika Kapil Mohta and the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Yadav are also seen.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, meeting the Chairman of the India-Sweden Parliamentary Association in the Riksdag (Swedish Parliament), Ms. Asa Coenraads, who was joined by a couple of other Parliamentarians, in Stockholm, Sweden on May 30, 2017. The Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Yadav is also seen.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, in an interaction with the Speaker of the Riksdag (Swedish Parliament) Mr. Urban Ahlin, in Stockholm, Sweden on May 30, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Sweden, Ms. Monika Kapil Mohta and the Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Yadav are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Power
02-June, 2017 15:38 IST
Highlights of Shri Piyush Goyal’s visit to Berlin, Leipzig and Munich

Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal visited Berlin, Leipzig and Munich from May 29 to June 1, 2017. The Minister participated in a number of bilateral and business meetings.

The visit started with the Minister meeting Dr. Christoph Beier, Vice Chairman of German Development agency GIZ (Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit). The agency complements the German development bank KfW through technical advisory and capability development.

Shri Goyal highlighted how India has increased its green power capacity to more than 100 GW, including Hydro and nuclear and increased its solar capacity to nearly five times of the capacity in 2014. The Minister informed the German side how India’s tremendous success in auctions to ensure affordable renewable energy can also be adopted in Germany which is moving away from Feed In Tariffs (FITs).

Given the global presence of GIZ in over 130 countries, Shri Goyal proposed a partnership with EESL, which can help India leapfrog and distribute energy efficiency products across the globe. The Minister also explored areas like potential availability of good technical assets in stressed solar companies in Germany, long term funding, grid balancing, electric vehicles development, off grid systems, green energy corridors and long term funding.

In line with Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Make in India Mittelstand (MIIM)’, Shri Goyal met a few German companies engaged in or exploring Make in India. During the meetings held in Berlin and Munich, the Minister highlighted how innovative companies from Germany can leverage scale and low manufacturing cost in India to Make in India and Make for the World. These companies included innovative firms in areas like Bio fuels (resolving pollution related issues from rice husk burning), building material from Sulphur capture at power plants (significant potential to reduce imports and fund pollution control equipment), battery storage, affordable off shore wind power and increasing flexibility in thermal plants to support rapid demand fluctuation and renewable energy addition.

In order to facilitate better interaction between German and Indian companies, Shri Goyal recommended that International Solar Alliance (ISA) Secretariat start holding monthly matchmaking meetings in collaboration with Industry Associations like CII, FICCI etc. These meetings would include German and Indian companies including financing firms. Gradually, ISA can take such a model to all its member countries.

In a detailed meeting with Dr. Barbara Hendricks, German Federal Minister for Environment, Nature Conservation, Building & Nuclear Safety (BMUB) and her officials, Shri Goyal reiterated how India under Shri Modi’s leadership has taken up renewable energy as an article of faith and is steadfast on its Paris commitments, irrespective of what others do.

In the above meeting, Shri Goyal told Dr. Hendricks that India led the focus on Sustainable lifestyles in Paris agreement. Both Ministers agreed that affordable renewable energy has made achieving a greener planet a case of opportunity sharing rather than burden sharing. Shri Goyal also invited the German side to partner with India for RE-Invest 2017, to which they indicated their preference for visiting the country during September before the German elections.

To discuss long term affordable financing for renewable industry in India, Shri Goyal met Mr Roland Siller, DG Europe and Asia, KfW. In order to develop the rooftop market, the Minister suggested that SECI or NTPC can take long term funding from KfW and set up rooftops on government buildings as an aggregator. The tariffs can be escalating which ensures affordable prices from day one. Innovative structures like first loss fund creation through a surcharge on solar power were also discussed. In order to support rapid roll out of Smart meters, it was suggested that REC and PFC can explore long term funding through KfW. Additional areas for potential collaboration include underground cabling (replicating the success in Varanasi across India), global expansion of EESL through pay as you go model.

In Leipzig, Shri Goyal studied Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure which included public fast chargers, normal chargers at homes as well as multi-functional street pole chargers with CCTV and Wi-Fi infrastructure. The city utility in Leipzig provides free electricity to EV owners in order to incentivise consumption. This is a model being used by Tesla motors too and can also be explored in power surplus India. Innovative business models in EVs have resulted in a cultural shift so that in big cities, youngsters consider owning a car a taboo and prefer using an app based service to unlock and use the nearest EV which are available across large cities.

Further, the Minister interacted with the senior management of Fraunhofer Institute, Europe’s largest applied R&D organisation as well as the CEO of Leipzig’s utility. A number of their innovations in areas like Electric Mobility (storage and retrofitting buses), Industrial Data Space etc. are prospective areas that can be explored for further collaboration. Shri Goyal invited them to setup a centre for EV research in collaboration with IIT BHU, Mumbai or Chennai and help in mass production of charging stations.

Shri Goyal also visited the BMW’s Electric Vehicle manufacturing facility near Leipzig which produces their i3 and i8 series of EVs. With a capacity of 30,000 EVs per year, the simple construction of EVs whose life (body shell) and drive (battery and motor) are literally glued together. With the setup of supporting infrastructure and advances in better technology, many Indian OEMs can explore EV manufacturing.

The Minister also participated in Intersolar, one of the World’s largest exhibitions for the solar industry. Addressing the gathering, he reiterated India’s resolve to take up the leadership of saving the planet from climate change while others abrogate their leadership. Shri Goyal highlighted how under Shri Modi’s visionary leadership, India has started the ISA which is well on its way towards ratification. He also highlighted how in future, with renewable revolution, electricity may become free and may only be given as an added incentive along with other services.

Finally, noting Munich’s aim to become 100% renewable energy powered city by 2025, Shri Goyal threw a challenge to make Varanasi 100% renewable energy powered before 2025 and beat Munich. In this way, the World’s oldest city can also become the first major city to be powered fully by clean energy. The Minister instructed officials to start working on this including the storage and distribution infrastructure required for the same.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
04-June, 2017 10:27 IST
Shri S.S. Ahluwalia leads Indian Parliamentary Delegation to Norway



India strongly condemns terrorism and there could be no tolerance for States sheltering, arming, training, or financing terrorists: Shri Ahluwalia



Shri Ahluwalia highlights the need for further strengthening of India-Norway cooperation in the United Nations



“India looks to Norway for exchange of its knowledge and technical expertise to develop Recirculation Aquaculture Systems”, says Shri Ahluwalia



Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs and Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, led an Indian Parliamentary delegation on a three-day visit to Norway for promoting and strengthening parliamentary relations between the two countries. The visit, which concluded late last night, is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations between India and Norway.

During the visit, the Indian delegation met Ms. Monica Mæland, Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms. Marit Berger Røsland, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Government of Norway, Ms. Anniken Huitfeldt, Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Policy and Defence and Mr. Gunnar Gundersen, Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Business and Industry of Parliament of Norway and also visited the Norwegian Institute of Bio-economy Research (NIBIO), Ås, Norway.

Shri Ahluwalia, in his meetings with Norwegian dignitaries, stated that both India and Norway should work towards strengthening cooperation in areas such as, combating international terrorism, maritime cooperation, climate change, renewable energy, waste management, fisheries, agriculture, exchange of technology on horticulture and organic farming etc.

Speaking on the global threat of terrorism, Shri Ahluwalia stated that it constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, hinders the enjoyment of human rights, and undermines social and economic development of democratic societies. The Minister highlighted the need for the international community to combat terrorism, which are well- connected, well-educated well-funded, well-armed and well-trained. “India strongly condemns terrorism and there could be no tolerance for States sheltering, arming, training, or financing terrorists”, Shri Ahluwalia reiterated.

Noting that both countries have supported each other in several initiatives in the United Nations and other multilateral fora, Shri Ahluwalia highlighted the need for strengthening this cooperation and even further deepen the interaction on several issues in the United Nations. The Minister also expressed sincere appreciation for the Norwegian Government’s valuable support for India's candidature for a permanent membership of reformed UN Security Council, as well as at the NSG.

In the field of fisheries, Shri Ahluwalia stated that introduction of Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS) is fairly new to India, whereas, Norwegian companies have expertise in this high-tech production technique. “India looks to Norway for exchange of knowledge and technical expertise to develop Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS)”, the Minister said.

The Indian Delegation also interacted with the Indian community and representatives at a reception hosted by Ambassador of India to Norway Shri Debraj Pradhan.

The Parliamentary delegation comprised of the Members of Parliament - Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, MP(LS), BJD; Dr. Heena Vijaykumar Gavit, MP(LS), BJP; Shri Amdayala Paddu Jithender Reddy, MP(LS), TRS; Shri Chandrakant Bhaurao Khaire, MP(LS), Shiv Sena; Shri Ram Kumar Verma MP(RS), BJP; Shri Manchacheri Kuppadakkath Raghavan MP(LS), INC; Shri Palanivel Kumar, MP(LS) AIADMK; Shri Chintakunta Munaiah Ramesh, MP(RS), TDP; Shri Mohammed Faizal Padippura MP(LS), NCP and Shri Yerram Venkata Subba Reddy, MP(LS), YSRCP - and the Secretary, Parliamentary Affairs Shri Rajiv Yadav.

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The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, in a meeting with the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Norway, Ms. Marit Berger Rosland, in Oslo, Norway on June 01, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Norway, Shri Debraj Pradhan is also seen.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, in a meeting with the Minister of Trade and Industry, Norway, Ms. Monica Maeland, in Oslo, Norway on June 02, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Norway, Shri Debraj Pradhan is also seen.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri S.S. Ahluwalia, leading an Indian Parliamentary delegation, in a meeting with the State Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Industry, Norway, Ms. Dilek Ayhan, in Oslo, Norway on June 02, 2017. The Indian Ambassador to Norway, Shri Debraj Pradhan is also seen.

President's Secretariat
05-June, 2017 18:14 IST
President of India’s message on the eve of National Day of Sweden

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the King and people of the Kingdom of Sweden on the eve of their National Day (June 6, 2017).

In a message to His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, the King of the Kingdom of Sweden, the President has said, “On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I have great pleasure in extending warm greetings and felicitations to Your Majesty and the people of the Kingdom of Sweden on the occasion of your National Day.

India attaches great importance to her friendly and co-operative relations with Kingdom of Sweden. I am happy to note that the relations between our two countries, underpinned by our common and unwavering commitment to democratic values, continue to strengthen to our mutual satisfaction.

I recall the warm reception and gracious hospitality extended to me by Your Majesty and Her Majesty Queen Silvia during my State Visit to Sweden in 2015. India was particularly happy to receive Prime Minister Mr. Stefan Lofven in India last year. I am confident that the positive momentum in our relations will be sustained in the days to come.

I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for Your Majesty’s good health and success and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Kingdom of Sweden”.

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[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
09-June, 2017 13:58 IST
President of India’s message on the eve of National Day of the Portuguese Republic

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Portuguese Republic on the eve of their National Day (June 10, 2017).

In a message to His Excellency Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of the Portuguese Republic, the President has said, “On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to extend warm greetings and felicitations to you and to the people of Portugal on the occasion of your National Day.

India and Portugal enjoy warm and friendly relations, anchored in historical and cultural links. Our bilateral ties have been energized following the recent visit of Prime Minister Antonio Costa to India in January this year. We hope that our two counties will work closely to build further on this renewed momentum in our bilateral relations.

Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your good health and personal well-being as well as for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Portugal”.

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[Hindustani78]

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the Foreign Minister of Argentina, Ms. Susana Malcorra, at OECD, in Paris on June 08, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the Minister of Trade, South Africa, Mr. Rob Davies, in Paris on June 08, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the US Trade Representative, Mr. Robert Lighthizer, on the sidelines of the WTO ministerial meet, in Paris on June 08, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the Secretary General of the OECD, Mr. Angel Gurria, in Paris on June 08, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
22-June, 2017 14:09 IST
PM speaks to Swedish PM Stefan Löfven


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, spoke to Prime Minister of Sweden Mr. Stefan Löfven today.

“Had a good discussion with H. E. Mr. Stefan Löfven, Swedish PM, on the phone. I deeply appreciate Sweden's support for Make in India”, the Prime Minister tweeted.

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Cabinet
22-June, 2017 18:02 IST
Cabinet approves Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space between India and Armenia

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi was apprised about an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space between India and Armenia.

The MoU has already been signed in April, 2017.

This MoU shall enable the areas of cooperation such as, space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication and satellite based navigation; space science and planetary exploration; use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology.

The MoU would lead to setting up of a Joint Working Group, drawing members from Department of Space/ Indian Space Research Organisation (DOS/ISRO), and the State Committee of Sciences of the Ministry of Education and Sciences of the Republic of Armenia, which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing this MoU.

It will provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space.

MoU would lead to develop a joint activity in the field of application of space technologies for the benefit of humanity. Thus all sections and regions of the country will get benefited.

Financing of works carried out under this MoU shall be provided by the respective executive organisation with due consideration of national norms and rules concerning budgetary regulations in force in their respective States and within the limits of available resources.

Joint projects and works carried out under this MoU depending on the type and field of activity shall be on non-commercial or commercial basis and shall be executed either without mutual payments or on the basis of compensatory arrangements or contracts.

Background:

Armenia has expressed interest in cooperating with India in the area of space. Accordingly, a template of framework MoU for space cooperation was provided for further processing at Government level, for which Armenia side has given its concurrence in April 2017. Accordingly, an MoU between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Republic of Armenia on cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space, was signed at Yerevan on April 25, 2017 during the visit of Hon'ble Vice President of India.

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[Hindustani78]

Cabinet
16-August, 2017 16:16 IST
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Sweden on IPRs

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today has given its approval to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Sweden on cooperation in the field of Intellectual Property (IPRs).


The MoU establishes a wide ranging and flexible mechanism through which both countries can exchange best practices and work together on training programs and technical exchanges to raise awareness on IPRs and better protect intellectual property rights.


Impact:



The MoU will enable India to exchange experiences in the innovation and IP ecosystems that will substantially benefit entrepreneurs, investors and businesses on both sides. The exchange of best practices between the two countries will lead to improved protection and awareness about India's range of Intellectual creations which are as diverse as its-people. It will be a landmark step forward in India's journey towards becoming a major player in global Innovation and will further the objectives of National IPR Policy, 2016.


Features:



A Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) with members from both sides will be formed to decide cooperation activities to be taken under the MoU in following areas:


a) Exchange of best practices, experiences and knowledge on IP awareness among the public, businesses and educational institutions of both countries;

b) Collaboration in training programmes, exchange of experts, technical exchanges and outreach activities;

c) Exchange and dissemination of best practices, experiences and knowledge on IP with the industry, universities, R & D organisations and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through participation in programs and events in the matter, organized singly or jointly by the Parties;

d) Exchange of information and best practices for disposal of applications for patents, trademarks, industrial designs, copyrights and Geographical Indications, as also the protection, enforcement and use of IP rights;

e) Cooperation in the development of automation and implementation of modernization projects, new documentation and information systems in IP and procedures for management of IP;

f) Cooperation to understand how Traditional Knowledge is protected; and the exchange of best practices, including traditional knowledge related databases and awareness raising of existing IP systems;

g) Exchange of information and best practices regarding Intellectual Property law infringements in the digital environment, especially regarding Copyright issues; and

h) Other cooperation activities as may he decided by the Parties with mutual understanding.



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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
28-August, 2017 16:28 IST
MNRE & GIZ Signs Agreement to Improve Framework Conditions for Grid Integration of Renewable Energies



The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH India on behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany signed an agreement on technical cooperation under the “Indo-German Energy Programme – Green Energy Corridors (IGEN-GEC)” here today . The main objective of this programme component is to improve the sector framework and conditions for grid integration of renewable energies.

In the distinguished presence of Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines Shri Piyush Goyal and the German Ambassador to India, H.E. Dr. Martin Ney, the agreement was signed by Dr. Wolfgang Hannig, Country Director, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH India and Mr. A.N. Sharan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Goyal said “ am delighted that this relationship between GIZ and India will result in improve market mechanisms and regulations, help us train manpower, to ensure grid stability & integration of renewables into grid and ensure safer & secure grid and a grid which can take cyber challenges” . Shri Goyal further added that Germany is a very reliable partner country and has been supporting India in achieving its goal for sustainable development through bilateral cooperation for almost six decade now.

Dr. Ney added “When in July 2012 Power Grid Corporation of India submitted a comprehensive and well elaborated “Transmission Plan for Envisaged Renewable Capacity” to MNRE it paved the way for India’s ambitious goals to transform its power system by significantly increasing the share of renewable energies in the energy mix. Also in Germany’s “Energiewende” the evacuation and grid integration of renewable energy plays a pivotal role with major technological and fiscal challenges. Both the countries have very constructive dialogue under the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGEF).

Being committed to this objective, GIZ and MNRE will work on improving market mechanisms and regulations for integration of Renewable Energies; advancing technical and institutional conditions in specified target states, regions and on a national level; adding human capacities to handle systemic (strategic, managerial, financial, technical) Renewable Energies integration in an efficient and effective manner.

The IGEN-GEC programme is commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and jointly implemented by Ministry of New and Renewable Resources (MNRE), Ministry of Power (MoP), Government of India and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). This programme component supports the implementation of the Renewable Energy Management Centre (REMCs), Green Energy Corridors scheme of the Government of India which is a prerequisite for large scale grid integration of renewable energy thus contributing to achieve the 175 GW target of the Government of India for renewable energy generation capacity by 2022.

Based on the Indo-German Consultations held on 11th April 2013 in Berlin, both countries confirmed collaboration on the Green Energy Corridors. In the subsequent bilateral development cooperation negotiations, it was agreed that Germany will provide concessional loans of up to 1 billion Euros through KfW (German Development Bank) and up to 10 million Euros under technical assistance in forecasting, balancing, market design, network management and demand side energy efficiency, implemented by GIZ. These contributions have been further increased in 2015 and 2016 by concessional loans up to 400 million Euros for transmission infrastructure and up to 7 million Euros for training activities in the photovoltaic solar rooftop sector and energy efficiency in residential buildings under technical assistance through GIZ.

It was added that India & Germany will further benefit each other in the journey towards sustainable development. Economic growth and a cleaner world with successful continuation of cooperation & fruitful exchange.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal and the Germany Ambassador to India, Dr. Martin Ney witnessing the signing ceremony of Implementation Agreement of Indo-German Energy Programme- Green Energy Corridors (IGEN-GEC) between MNRE and GIZ, in New Delhi on August 28, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal and the Germany Ambassador to India, Dr. Martin Ney witnessing the signing ceremony of Implementation Agreement of Indo-German Energy Programme- Green Energy Corridors (IGEN-GEC) between MNRE and GIZ, in New Delhi on August 28, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal addressing at the signing ceremony of Implementation Agreement of Indo-German Energy Programme- Green Energy Corridors (IGEN-GEC) between MNRE and GIZ, in New Delhi on August 28, 2017. The Germany Ambassador to India, Dr. Martin Ney is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
31-August, 2017 17:47 IST
List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the State visit of President of the Swiss Confederation to India


1- MoU between Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich.

2- MoU between Ministry of Railways, India and Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications of the Swiss Federation on Technical Cooperation in Rail Sector.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
31-August, 2017 16:35 IST
Ministry of Railways Signs two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)



Two MoUs have been signed in the course of the visit of President of the Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard to India on today i.e.31.8.2017 between Ministry of Railways and Swiss Confederation.


The first MoU is between Ministry of Railways and Federal Department of the Environment, Transport and Communications of the Swiss Confederation for technical cooperation in Rail Sector. This was signed in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and President of the Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard by Shri Ashwani Lohani, Chairman Railway Board and Dr. Andreas Baum, Swiss Ambassador to India.


The MoU is a follow up on bilateral cooperation in Rail sector discussed in the meeting held between Minister of Railways Mr. Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu and Swiss Ambassador in July 2016.


The MoU aims at cooperation in the areas of:

a. Traction Rolling stock

b. EMU and Train sets

c. Traction Propulsion Equipments

d. Freight and Passenger Cars

e. Tilting Trains

f. Railway Electrification Equipments

g. Train scheduling and operation improvement

h. Railway Station modernization

i. Multimodal transport

j. Tunneling technology

The second MoU is between Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich. This was signed by Shri Sanjay Gupta, CMD/KRCL and Prof. Sarah Springman, Rector, ETH Zurich. This will help Konkan Railway in establishing the George Fernandes Institute of Tunnel Technology (GFITT) at Goa especially for assimilation and dissemination of knowledge in the field of tunneling. GFITT aims to not only train KRCL’s own manpower for its Tunneling Projects but also wishes to generate qualified and trained personnel for the benefit of other Government organisations, private sector and even foreign organisations to bridge the huge gap in levels of knowledge and qualified manpower required to meet the key segment of infrastructure development in India.

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The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard being received by the Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya, on her arrival, in New Delhi on August 30, 2017.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard paying floral tributes at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on August 31, 2017. The Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya is also seen.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard paying homage at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on August 31, 2017. The Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya is also seen.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard laying wreath at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on August 31, 2017. The Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya is also seen.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard inspecting the Guard of Honour, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard being received by the President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard being received by the President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard with the President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, at the Ceremonial Reception, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the India-Swiss Business Engagement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the India-Swiss Business Engagement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the India-Swiss Business Engagement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

 

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The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan addressing at the FICCI’s Business & Climate Summit 2017, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan at the FICCI’s Business & Climate Summit 2017, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal addressing at the FICCI’s Business & Climate Summit 2017, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal at the FICCI’s Business & Climate Summit 2017, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the Joint Press Statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the Joint Press Statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at the Joint Press Statement, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard witnessing the exchange of an MoU, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard witnessing the exchange of an MoU, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard signing the visitors’ book, at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi is also seen.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu calling on the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu calling on the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu calling on the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley meeting the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley meeting the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard in a meeting, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Shri Arun Jaitley and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard in a meeting, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu meeting the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard in a meeting, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

The Union Minister for Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu and the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard in a meeting, in New Delhi on August 31, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
01-September, 2017 10:44 IST
Speech by the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the banquet hosted in Honour of H.E. Ms. Doris Leuthard, President of the Swiss Confederation

Your Excellency Doris Leuthard, President of the Swiss Confederation,

Distinguished members of the Swiss delegation,

Ladies and gentlemen,


I am delighted to welcome you, Madam President, as well as members of your delegation, to India. Your visit assumes special significance as this year marks a milestone in bilateral relations. Our countries enter the 70th year of the Friendship and Establishment Treaty. India itself is celebrating the 70th anniversary of Independence.

Your Excellency, relations between the two countries have been faithful to the words inscribed in the treaty: “There shall be perpetual peace and unalterable friendship.” From the quest for clean energy to the quest for a cleaner financial system, our goals are extremely compatible. On the tennis court, Martina Hingis and Sania Mirza have shown us what Switzerland and India can do together. We have to take inspiration from that partnership in other areas.

In this context, your visit and Prime Minister Modi’s visit in 2016 showcase the desire of both nations to maintain close contacts at the highest level. You are the fourth Swiss President to visit India. I cannot help but note, you are also the first Swiss President to come to India in a month other than November! I am glad this has given you the chance to enjoy the Indian monsoon.

Excellency, both of us represent democratic and plural societies that believe in the principles of “respect for differences” and “unity in diversity”. Switzerland is India’s seventh largest trading partner and 11th largest foreign investor. On its part, India is the fastest growing large economy in the world. A GDP growth rate of seven per cent, with strong economic fundamentals, is supported by a reform momentum, fiscal consolidation and a low current account deficit.

There is so much we can do with Switzerland. Your economy is among the world’s most innovative and competitive. It is backed by the acclaimed Swiss dual-track education system, with its emphasis on vocational training. These attributes, along with Switzerland’s environmental best practices, provide us a number of opportunities.

We can grow and diversify our trade, investment and technological exchanges. Our countries need to pursue even closer business partnerships in priority sectors such as precision and high technology manufacturing, infrastructure, skill development, renewable energy and clean-tech research.

There is scope for creating partnerships between R&D labs and institutions. We value your country’s recognition of Ayurveda as a system of traditional medicine. Here too there is room to cooperate further.

Excellency, in a sense our governments are only building on strong people-to-people and business links between our countries. In India, Switzerland is the land of cheese, chocolates and Roger Federer. Given our population, he probably has more fans in India than he has at home.

Your country’s beauty is familiar to many Indians as the backdrop for some of our best-known films. This has added to the attraction that Switzerland holds as a tourist destination. In our country, we wish and wait for a similar response from Swiss tourists.

India offers visitors a rich heritage of historical and religious monuments, and a diverse canvas of natural beauty. We are glad you are here, but we want you to come back, and more often!

Excellency, like your country, India is committed to multilateralism. Yet, the multilateral order needs to undergo multiple transformations; namely:

· Reform and restructuring of the United Nations and other multilateral institutions;


· Tackling urgent challenges of international terrorism and radicalism, as well as of financial and cyber-crimes and of Internet governance; and


· Meeting pressing concerns of climate change and attaining the Sustainable Development Goals.

India is keen to build synergies with Switzerland in all of these endeavours, while working within the framework of the rules-based multilateral system.

Excellency, we believe your visit will add substantially to the energy that relations between our countries have acquired. We are different societies, and yet so similar. We share and cherish the same values. This is a partnership of the Alps and the Himalayas. There is no reason why it cannot soar to greater heights.

On this optimistic note,

Ladies and Gentlemen please join me in a toast to the:

· Health and happiness of President Leuthard;


· Progress and prosperity of the people of Switzerland, and;


· Further strengthening of relations between Switzerland and India


Thank you!

***

President's Secretariat
01-September, 2017 10:42 IST
Swiss technology companies should take part in our initiatives like Make in India, start-up India, Swachh Bharat and skill India, says President

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, yesterday (August 31, 2017) received Her Excellency Ms. Doris Leuthard, the President of the Swiss Confederation, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He also hosted a banquet in her honour.

Welcoming the Swiss President, the President said that Switzerland and India are natural partners. Switzerland is one of the oldest democracies and India is the largest democracy. A Treaty of Friendship between India and Switzerland signed in New Delhi in August 1948 was one of the first treaties to be signed by independent India.

The President said that Switzerland is an important trade and investment partner for India. India is a preferred destination for FDI as it is the world’s fastest growing large economy. He stated that India has made great progress on the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and in creating a unified market through GST and other measures. Swiss companies are ideally positioned to take advantage. He invited Swiss technology companies to take part in initiatives like Make in India, Start-Up India, Swachh Bharat and Skill India.

Subsequently, in his banquet speech, President Kovind said that the visit of the Swiss President assumes special significance as this year marks a milestone in bilateral relations. India and Switzerland enter the 70th year of the Friendship and Establishment Treaty. Both India and Switzerland represent democratic and plural societies that believe in the principles of “respect for differences” and “unity in diversity”. Switzerland is India’s seventh largest trading partner and 11th largest foreign investor.

The President said that India and Switzerland can grow and diversify their trade, investment and technological exchanges. The two countries need to pursue even closer business partnerships in priority sectors such as precision and high technology manufacturing, infrastructure, skill development, renewable energy and clean-tech research. There is scope for creating partnerships between R&D labs and institutions.

The President said that like Switzerland, India is committed to multilateralism. Yet, the multilateral order needs to undergo multiple transformations; namely- Reform and restructuring of the United Nations and other multilateral institutions; Tackling urgent challenges of international terrorism and radicalism, as well as of financial and cyber-crimes and of Internet governance; and Meeting pressing concerns of climate change and attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. He stated that India is keen to build synergies with Switzerland in all of these endeavours, while working within the framework of a rules-based multilateral system.



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The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman meeting the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in a meeting, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard, in a meeting, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman addressing at the Indo-Swiss business session, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017. The President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard and other dignitaries, at the Indo-Swiss business session, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at a business delegation meeting, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at a business delegation meeting, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

The Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Shri Piyush Goyal with the President of Swiss Confederation, Mrs. Doris Leuthard at a business delegation meeting, in New Delhi on September 01, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

NEW DELHI, August 31, 2017 16:40 IST
Updated: August 31, 2017 16:44 IST
http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...inancial-transparency-law/article19594392.ece

India on Thursday thanked Switzerland for its support in global multilateral organisations. Welcoming the visiting Swiss president Doris Leuthard, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought greater cooperation to ensure bilateral financial transparency and thanked the Swiss government for its support to India’s membership bid for the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

“Globalisation and disarmament are of extreme importance for both Switzerland and India. We are really thankful to Switzerland for its support to us on Missile Technology Control Regime,” Prime Minister Modi said speaking in Hindi and sought greater cooperation with Switzerland within the framework of India-EU cooperation.

India became an MTCR member last year and made a serious bid for membership of NSG. In both the initiatives, Switzerland supported India. Prime Minister Modi recollected his visit to the country last year in the run up to the plenary session of NSG and urged closer continued cooperation in this sphere.

Mr Modi also sought Swiss support in ensure transparency in investments and said, “Transparency in financial transactions is an issue of worry to stop black money, hawala transactions and fund for terrorism. Our cooperation continues with the Swiss to ensure automatic sharing of information. We welcome Swiss investments and work has begun on a new bilateral investment treaty.”

Mr Modi also noted that Switzerland has recognised traditional medicinal discipline of Ayurveda and sought greater cooperation to promote this field in Switzerland. “India is committed to clean energy and infrastructural development,” Prime Minister Modi said highlighting some of his government’s key policies.

Both sides also signed two major agreements on railways following which the Swiss president said, “India is playing an important role in global political agenda. We can learn from each other.”

Emphasising her government’s commitment to financial transparency, the Swiss leader said, “We have accepted automatic exchange of information on financial issues. Hopefully, our parliament will pass it by the end of the year. We have strongest laws against money laundering and therefore we hope that the first exchange of information can begin by 2019.”

Ms Leuthard, also expressed her country’s commitment to the Paris agreement and said that the challenge lies in implementing this international agreement on national level and said, “We both believe in rule of law and share common values which will help our future collaborations.”

 

[Hindustani78]

Cabinet
12-September, 2017 16:56 IST
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Armenia on Cooperation in the field of Disaster Management

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Armenia on Cooperation in the field of Disaster Management

The MoU would enhance cooperation in the field of Disaster Management and contribute to the well-being and safety of the people of both the countries in the event of disaster. It will also result in exchange of information in the relevant fields of disaster management which is of mutual interest.

Further, the MoU seeks to put in place a system, whereby both India and Armenia will be benefited from the disaster management mechanisms of the other country and will help in strengthening the areas of preparedness, response and capacity building.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
28-September, 2017 15:45 IST
India and Norway sign Letter of Intent to extend health cooperation

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India signed a Letter of Intent with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Norway to extend the cooperation within health sector through the Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI) for a period of three years starting from 2018, here today. Shri C K Mishra, Secretary (HFW) and His Excellency, Mr. Nils Ragnar Kamsvag, Ambassador of Norway signed this Letter of Intent. Shri Manoj Jhalani, Additional Secretary & Mission Director (AS&MD), Ms. Vandana Gurnani, JS (RCH), Dr. Tore Godal, Special Adviser to Prime Minister of Norway, Dr Maha-noor Khan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway were also present during the signing ceremony.

Through this letter, the cooperation between India and Norway will continue to be aligned with the development goals of the Indian Government as outlined in its National Health Policy 2017 for achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The cooperation shall focus on global health issues of common interest.

The partnership shall also include areas related to reproductive, maternal, new-born, child, adolescent health and health system strengthening, and shall build on experiences from NIPI phase I and II. The cooperation will continue to focus on innovative, catalytic and strategic support, taking the Indian Government’s Intensification Plan for Accelerated Maternal and Child Survival in India as the starting point.

The Governments of Norway and India had agreed in 2006 to collaborate towards achieving MDG 4 to reduce child mortality based on commitments made by the two Prime Ministers. The partnership was based on India's health initiative, the National Health Mission (NHM), and aimed at facilitating rapid scale-up of quality child and maternal health services in four high focus states - Bihar, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The main activities in Phase I (2006-2012) were home-based new born care (HBNC), Yashoda through State health system, establishing Sick Newborn Care Units (SNCU), techno managerial support, and providing strategic support for immunization and Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives.

The Governments of India and Norway decided to extend the partnership to coincide with the second phase of National Health Mission plan (NHM) for a period of five years (2013-17). Besides the four states already supported by NIPI, Jammu & Kashmir was added as a fifth state with NIPI being the lead partner for RMNCH+A activities.

Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI) through its work in the last ten years (2007-2017) has resulted in newer initiatives. In addition to trying out innovations, NIPI has also supported NHM by providing credible technical support in the five states and at national level. This has resulted in development and release of multiple policies and guidelines for the NHM.



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The Secretary (Health and Family Welfare), Shri C.K. Mishra and the Ambassador of the Norway to India, Mr. Nils Ragnar Kamsvag at the signing ceremony of a Letter of Intent in the health sector under the Indo-Norwegian Collaboration 2018-20, in New Delhi on September 28, 2017.

The Secretary (Health and Family Welfare), Shri C.K. Mishra and the Ambassador of the Norway to India, Mr. Nils Ragnar Kamsvag exchanging after signing a Letter of Intent in the health sector under the Indo-Norwegian Collaboration 2018-20, in New Delhi on September 28, 2017. The AS&MD (NHM), Shri Manoj Jhalani and other dignitaries are also seen.