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DOCUMENTS
Document: 1
India-Russia Joint Statement during Visit of the President of
Russia to India, India-Russia: An Enduring Partnership in a
Changing World, New Delhi, India, October 5, 2018.
rime Minister of the Republic of India H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi and
President of the Russian Federation H.E. Mr. Vladimir V. Putin met
for the 19th edition of the Annual Bilateral Summit in New Delhi on
October 4-5, 2018. India-Russia cooperation is based on the solid
foundations of the 1971 Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation
between the Republic of India and the USSR, 1993 Treaty of Friendship
and Cooperation between the Republic of India and the Russian
Federation, 2000 Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the
Republic of India and the Russian Federation and 2010 Joint Statement
elevating the Partnership to a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
Cooperation between India and Russia spans across the whole gamut of
sectors and rests on the fundamental pillars of political and strategic
cooperation, military and security cooperation, cooperation in the spheres
of economy, energy, industry, science and technology, and cultural and
humanitarian cooperation.
India and Russia highly evaluated the contemporary relevance and
significance of the informal summit in Sochi on May 21, 2018 which was a
unique meeting in international diplomacy, reflecting the deep trust and
confidence between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin, underlining
the desire of both countries to maintain regular contacts and hold frequent
consultations on issues of mutual interest, and further enhanced mutual
coordination and convergence of views on all major issues. The Sochi
Summit manifested the role of interaction and cooperation between India
and Russia in building a multi-polar world order. The two Sides agreed to
continue the practice of such informal meetings and to maintain strategic
communication at all levels on a regular basis.
The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Special and
Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. They declared
that this relationship is an important factor for global peace and stability
and appreciated each other’s respective roles as major powers with
common responsibilities for maintaining global peace and stability.
Both Sides agreed that their relationship is mature and confident,
covering all areas and is marked by deep trust, mutual respect and close
understanding of each other’s position. They reaffirmed that being
multicultural, multilingual and multi-religious societies, India and Russia
bring civilizational wisdom to address modern day challenges. Together,
they contribute to creating a more interconnected and diverse world.
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The Sides called upon all states to work towards the lessening of
global tensions and promoting the ideals of tolerance, cooperation,
transparency and openness in inter-state relations. They stressed that the
primary challenge in large parts of the world remains ensuring rapid and
environmentally sustainable economic development, removal of poverty,
reducing inequality among and within states, and providing basic health
care. India and Russia pledged to cooperate with each other to achieve
these goals.
The Sides noted with satisfaction the intensification of contacts
between the two countries, in all spheres – more than 50 visits at
ministerial level, which have injected new vigour into their relationship.
Subsequent to the successful implementation of the Protocol on Foreign
Office Consultations for the period 2017-18, the Sides agreed to extend the
period of Consultations for five more years (2019-2023) and signed a
Protocol to this effect. Russia welcomed the appointment of Honorary
Consuls General of India in Ekaterinburg and Astrakhan, which would
further facilitate closer interaction amongst people and regions of both
Sides.
The Sides welcomed the agreements reached in November 2017
between their concerned authorities, for cooperation on internal security,
drug trafficking and disaster management, including the Joint Action Plan
between the Narcotics Control Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs of the
Republic of India and the Ministry of Interior of the Russian Federation for
the period of 2018-2020. The Indian Side acknowledged the Russian Side’s
technical expertise in the field of disaster management and agreed to
explore cooperation, including through training of trainers and
development of emergency response structures.
The Sides noted that the successful conclusion of the 70th
anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations
between India and Russia witnessed enthusiastic response among people
of both countries and further consolidated people-to-people ties. The Sides
are satisfied with the implementation of the Cultural Exchange
Programme for 2017-2019 signed in 2017. They welcomed annual Russian
Festivals in India and Indian Festivals in Russia and highly appreciated the
ongoing youth exchange programme, exchange of writers and reciprocal
support of the National Film Festivals. The Sides welcomed mutual growth
in tourism flows in the last two years, and agreed to facilitate this positive
trend. India complimented Russia for successful organization of the 2018
FIFA World Cup. The Sides recognized the immense contribution made by
the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, to the
promotion of India-Russia relations over several decades. Prime Minister
Modi underlined that India would contribute to the success of the 200 year
celebrations of the foundation of the Institute.
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Economy
The Sides welcomed the outcomes of the 23rd meeting, co-chaired
by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Yuri I. Borisov and
Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India Sushma Swaraj, of the
India – Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economy,
Science, Technology and Cultural Cooperation, held in Moscow on
September 14, 2018.
The Sides reviewed the progress on the achievement of the goal to
increase two-way investment to USD 30 billion by the year 2025 and noted
with satisfaction that both countries were on the way to achieving this
target. They noted that in 2017 bilateral trade increased by more than
20% and agreed to work towards its further increase and diversification.
The Sides expressed their support to promoting bilateral trade in national
currencies.
The Sides noted that the first meeting of the Strategic Economic
Dialogue between NITI Aayog of India and the Ministry of Economic
Development of the Russian Federation would be held later in 2018 in
Russia.
The Sides welcomed the start of consultations on the Free Trade
Agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and its member states,
on one side, and the Republic of India – on the other, and supported the
idea to expedite the negotiation process.
The Sides appreciated the Joint Study commissioned to work out a
Joint Strategy of Action for the development of trade and economic
relations and investment cooperation and noted that, to take this forward,
the Sides have nominated, respectively, the Indian Institute of Foreign
Trade and the All-Russian Academy of Foreign Trade.
The Sides appreciated the work done by "Invest India’’ to facilitate
Russian investors in India and the planned launch of a "Single Window
Service” by the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian
Federation for facilitating operation of Indian companies in Russia.
The Sides welcomed the holding of the India-Russia Business
Summit on the margins of the 19th Annual Summit on October 4-5, 2018
in New-Delhi with the participation of large business delegations from
both sides, representing important areas of bilateral cooperation, sending
a strong signal of the willingness and capacity of the business sectors of
both countries to further strengthen economic, trade and investment
partnerships.
The Sides reviewed progress in the implementation of Priority
Investment Projects in the spheres of mining, metallurgy, power, oil & gas,
railways, pharmaceuticals, Information Technology, chemicals,
infrastructure, automobile, aviation, space, shipbuilding and
manufacturing of different equipment. The Sides welcomed the
establishment of a pharmaceutical plant by Advance Pharma Company in
Russia. The Indian Side conveyed its intention to increase import of
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fertilizers from Russia. The Sides noted the importance of expansion of
collaboration in the aluminum sector.
They welcomed the signing of the MoU between National Small
Industries Corporation of India and the Russian Small and Medium
Business Corporation.
The Sides emphasized that infrastructure development is an
important national priority for both countries offering immense
opportunities for cooperation. The Indian Side invited Russian companies
to participate in the development of industrial corridors in India, including
in areas of road and rail infrastructure, smart cities, construction of
wagons and creation of a joint transportation logistics company.
The Russian Side offered its expertise in tax collection based on
satellite navigation technologies for the realization of joint projects in
India including in the framework of above mentioned industrial corridors.
The Russian Side expressed its interest in participating in the
international competitive biddings as and when the Ministry of Railways
of India decides to execute the railway speed raising projects.
The Sides noted the importance of cooperation in the area of
transport education, personnel training and scientific support in the
implementation of international transport corridors. For these purposes
the Sides maintain cooperation between the National Rail and
Transportation Institute (Vadodara) of the Republic of India and the
Russian University of Transport (MIIT).
The Sides underscored the vital importance of increasing
connectivity between them. They called for the development of the
International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through intensified
efforts by finalizing pending issues related to Customs authorities,
development of road and rail infrastructure and financial facilitation
through bilateral discussions as well as discussions with other partner
countries at the earliest. The Sides welcomed the proposed trilateral
meeting between the Republic of India, the Russian Federation and the
Islamic Republic of Iran on the sidelines of "Transport Week - 2018” in
Moscow, on the issue of Indian goods transportation through the territory
of Iran to Russia. The Indian Side informed the Russian Side of its
accession to the Customs Convention on International Transport of Goods
under cover of TIR Carnets. The Sides agreed to make efforts to convene
the INSTC Ministerial and Coordination meeting on priority.
In order to promote trade, the Sides agreed to mutually share on
best endeavour basis the mandatory inspections/regulations requirement
to be fulfilled at the time of exporting/importing of any product so that
any delay related to such inspection could be reduced.
The Sides agreed to share the list of their trade exhibitions and
fairs as well as of institutions/export promotion councils and other export
related institutions from where one can get the details of
exporters/importers from both sides to facilitate their interaction.
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The Sides supported the early launch of the Green Corridor project
aimed at the simplification of customs operations in respect of goods being
transported between India and Russia. They regarded this as an important
step towards enhancing mutual trade. After the start of the project
Customs administrations of both countries will be committed to its further
expansion.
The Sides appreciated the efforts to further cement and
institutionalize cooperation between Indian States and Russian Regions.
To carry forward the momentum of cooperation between the States and
Union Territories of the Republic of India and Subjects of the Russian
Federation, both Sides directed further intensification of direct contacts
between business, entrepreneurs and governmental bodies on both sides.
The Sides welcomed further efforts aimed at signing of agreements
between Assam and Sakhalin, Haryana and Bashkortostan, Goa and
Kaliningrad, Odisha and Irkutsk, Visakhapatnam and Vladivostok. The
Sides agreed to encourage participation by regional delegations in major
events like Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, Eastern
Economic Forum and Partnership/Investment Summits and also
welcomed the intention to organize and hold the India-Russia
interregional forum.
The Sides agreed to work together to explore joint projects for
productive, efficient and economic use of natural resources in each other’s
country through application of appropriate technologies while ensuring
affordable environment friendly utilization of natural resources.
The Sides acknowledged the agriculture sector as an important
area for cooperation and committed themselves to eliminating trade
barriers, greater production and trade in agricultural products.
The Sides praised the level of cooperation achieved in diamond
sector, including the signing of new long-term contracts for rough
diamond supplies by PJSC ALROSA to Indian companies, opening of the
ALROSA representative office in Mumbai and joint financing by the
ALROSA and the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India of the
International Diamonds Producers Association on the development of
programmes of generic marketing of diamonds, including in the Indian
market. Both Sides noted recent investments by Indian companies in the
diamond manufacturing in the Russian Far East.
The Sides agreed to explore opportunities of joint collaboration in
precious metals, minerals, natural resources and forest produce, including
timber, through joint investments, production, processing and skilled
labour.
The Russian Side invited the Indian Side to invest in the Russian
Far East. The Indian Side welcomed the decision to open an office of the
Far East Agency in Mumbai. The Indian delegation, which was led by the
Minister for Commerce & Industry, and Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu,
participated in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September
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2018. A high level Russian delegation would visit India to organize
investment road-shows and promote greater Indian investments in the Far
East.
The Sides agreed to actively promote joint projects in third
countries in sectors such as railways, energy and others where there is a
complementarity between them in terms of technology and resources.
Science and Technology
The Sides noted the necessity to further intensify cooperation in
the Science and Technology sector and welcomed the successful conduct
of the 10th Indian-Russian Working Group on Science and Technology,
which is jointly supervised by the Department of Science and Technology
of India and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian
Federation, in February 2018.
The Sides noted the successful collaboration between the
Department of Science and Technology of India and the Russian
Foundation for Basic Research which celebrated their 10th anniversary of
joint research in the field of Basic and Applied Sciences in June 2017. The
Sides also recognized with satisfaction the collaboration between the
Department of Science and Technology of India and the Russian Science
Foundation. Both Sides agreed to revive cooperation under the Integrated
Long Term Programme for cooperation in the field of Science, Technology
and Innovations between the Government of the Republic of India and the
Government of the Russian Federation by drawing up a roadmap for
further cooperation between different Laboratories, Academia,
Universities, Institutions and Organizations in scientific and technology
areas of mutual priority.
The Sides agreed to further enhance their cooperation in the field
of Information and Communications Technology, particularly in
Electronics System Design & Manufacturing, Software development,
Supercomputing, E-Government, Public Services Delivery, Network
Security, Security in the use of Information and Communication
Technologies, Fin-tech, Internet of Things, standardization, radio control
and regulation of radio frequency spectrum. The Sides resolved to
continue mutual support and synergies at various platforms including
BRICS and ITU.
The Sides welcomed the signing of the Joint Declaration – "India-
Russia Economic Cooperation: The Way Forward” by Minister of
Commerce and Industry of India Suresh Prabhu and Minister of Economic
Development of the Russian Federation Maxim Oreshkin in March 2018 in
New Delhi. They highly appreciated the decision to hold the first ever
India-Russia Start-Up Summit in December 2018 by the Confederation of
Indian Industries and Skolkovo Foundation. They welcomed the idea to
launch an online portal that would enable startups, investors, incubators
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and aspiring entrepreneurs of both countries to interact and provide
relevant resources to expand and enable globalization of start-ups.
The Sides stressed the importance of the longstanding and
mutually beneficial India-Russia cooperation in outer space and welcomed
the activity on setting up measurement data collection ground stations of
the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System NavIC and the Russian
Navigation Satellite System GLONASS in the territory of the Russian
Federation and the Republic of India respectively. The Sides agreed to
further intensify cooperation in the field of exploration and use of outer
space for peaceful purposes, including human spaceflight programmes,
scientific projects, as well as agreed to continue developing cooperation on
BRICS remote sensing satellite constellation.
The Sides expressed interest in the development of mutually
beneficial cooperation in the Arctic, inter alia in the sphere of joint
scientific research. The Sides noted with satisfaction the longstanding
cooperation of Indian and Russian scientists in the Antarctic.
The Sides noted the expansion of linkages between higher
education institutions of two countries that became possible thanks to the
activities of the India-Russia Network of Universities, which has already
met thrice since its establishment in 2015, and whose total membership
has reached 42. The Sides noted the great interest in academic exchanges
of teachers and students, as well as in working on joint scientific and
educational projects.
Energy
The Sides noted the importance of further widening of energy
cooperation between India and Russia taking into account the Indian
Side’s interest in Russian energy assets, including natural gas, as well as in
implementation of prospective joint projects in the field of renewable
energy sources.
The Sides acknowledged the potential for mutually beneficial
cooperation in the energy sector, and encouraged their companies to
consider a wide range of opportunities for cooperation, including long-
term contracts, joint ventures and acquisitions of energy assets in both
countries as well as possible cooperation in third countries.
The Sides welcomed the ongoing cooperation between the Russian
and Indian energy companies, including investments of Indian consortium
in Vankorneft and Taas-Yuryakh Neftegazodobycha in Russia and the
participation of the PJSC Rosneft oil company in the Essar Oil capital. The
Sides noted with satisfaction the progress made by the companies in the
development of comprehensive cooperation and expressed the hope for
the completion of negotiations on the Vankor cluster at an early date.
The Sides acknowledged the interest of Russian and Indian
companies in cooperation in the field of LNG and welcomed the
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commencement of supply of LNG under the long-term contract between
Gazrpom Group and GAIL India Ltd.
The Sides expressed their support for continuing the expansion of
the dialogue between PJSC NOVATEK and the energy companies of India
and welcomed the joint intention to develop cooperation in the field of
LNG.
The Sides expressed their support to companies from both sides
for development of cooperation and exploring opportunities for joint
development of oil fields in the Russian territory, including in the Arctic
shelf of Russia and joint development of projects on the shelf of the
Pechora and Okhotsk Seas.
Welcoming the joint-study conducted in 2017 on the gas pipeline
supply routes from Russia and other countries to India, both Sides noted
the ongoing consultations between the Indian and Russian ministries and
companies to explore possibilities of constructing the gas pipeline to India
and agreed to continue to consult each other on the possible conclusion of
the Memorandum of Understanding between the two Ministries.
Civil nuclear cooperation between India and Russia is an important
component of strategic partnership contributing to India’s energy-security
and its commitments under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The
Sides noted the progress achieved in the construction of the remainder of
the six power units at Kudankulam NPP as well as the efforts being made
in the components manufacturing for localization. The Sides welcomed
consultations on the new Russian designed NPP in India, as well as on the
NPP equipment joint manufacturing of nuclear equipment; cooperation in
third countries
The Sides highlighted the progress achieved in fulfillment of the
agreements envisaged in the Memorandum of Understanding on trilateral
cooperation in implementation of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project in
Bangladesh. The sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action
Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the
Nuclear Field Identified Jointly.
The Sides also decided to further explore possibilities of closer
cooperation on hydel and renewable energy sources, energy efficiency,
including in order to reduce the negative effects of climate change.
Military-Technical Cooperation
The Sides noted that Military and Military-Technical cooperation
between the two countries is an important pillar of their strategic
partnership. They welcomed the forthcoming meeting of the Indian-
Russian Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical cooperation
to be held in December 2018. The Roadmap for Military Cooperation has
paved way for greater interaction between the militaries of both countries,
including in training, exchange of senior functionaries of the militaries,
Staff talks and Exercises. The Russian Side positively evaluated the Indian
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participation in the Army Games 2018, Army 2018 and Moscow
Conference on International Security. Both Sides commended the
successful completion of the first ever Tri-Services Exercise INDRA 2017
and committed to continue their Joint Military Exercises – INDRA Navy,
INDRA Army and Avia INDRA – in 2018.
The Sides welcomed the conclusion of the contract for the supply
of the S-400 Long Range Surface to Air Missile System to India.
The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhance military
technical cooperation between India and Russia, which has a long history
of mutual trust and mutual benefit. Both Sides expressed satisfaction at
the significant progress made on the ongoing projects of military technical
cooperation and recognized the positive shift towards joint research and
joint production of military technical equipment between the two
countries. They highly evaluated the Military Industrial Conference
process as an important mechanism to promote the "Make in India” policy
of the Government of India.
The Sides positively evaluated the meeting of the High-Level
Committee on Cooperation in High Technologies set up in November 2017
that identified concrete projects in areas of mutual interest for joint
research and development.
International Issues
The sides affirmed "equality, mutual respect and non-interference
as universally acknowledged norms of international law as reflected in the
United Nations Charter and the 1970 Declaration on principles of
international law concerning friendly relations and co-operation among
states in accordance with the UN Charter.”
The Sides, mentioning the results of the 10th anniversary BRICS
Summit in South Africa in July 2018, acknowledged the intention of India
and Russia to continue productive interaction in order to enhance
strategic partnership within the association, defending priorities of
building fair, just, and multipolar world order on the basis of strict
observance of international law and the UN Charter.
The Sides declared their support to Afghan government’s efforts
towards the realization of an Afghan-led, and Afghan-owned national
peace reconciliation process. Concerned with the unabated violence and
severely undermined security situation in Afghanistan and its adverse
effect on the region, the Sides resolved to work through the Moscow
Format, SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan, and all other recognized
formats for an early resolution to the long-term conflict in Afghanistan,
end to terrorist violence, external safe havens and sanctuaries for
terrorists and the worsening drug problem in the country. Both Sides
called upon the international community to join efforts to thwart any
external interference in Afghanistan, to restore its economy, contribute to
sustaining peace and security, economic and political development of a
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stable, secure, united, prosperous and independent Afghanistan. The two
Sides will direct their activity to launch joint development and capacity
building projects in Afghanistan.
The Sides reaffirmed the commitment of India and Russia for a
political resolution of the conflict in Syria, through an inclusive Syrian-led,
Syrian-owned political process which safeguards the state sovereignty,
independence and territorial integrity of Syria in pursuance of United
Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015). They reiterated their
support for the Geneva process and the mediation offered by the UN, as
well as the Astana process, and stressed the complementarity between the
two initiatives. Both Sides called upon all stake holders to actively engage
in building a peaceful, stable and sovereign Syrian nation and support the
intra-Syrian dialogue without preconditions or external interference. Both
Sides called for enhancing efforts to provide necessary humanitarian
assistance to bring the long drawn suffering of the Syrian people to an end
soon, bearing in mind urgent reconstruction needs and return of refugees
and internally displaced persons.
The Sides underlined the importance of the full and effective
implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the
Iranian nuclear programme in order to support international peace and
security, to strengthen non-proliferation regime and to develop normal
economic cooperation with Iran. They called for all issues related to the
Iranian nuclear programme to be resolved peacefully and through
dialogue.
The Sides welcomed the positive developments in the Korean
peninsula and conveyed their support for efforts to bring about lasting
peace and stability in this sub-region through diplomacy and dialogue.
Both Sides agreed that while drawing-up the mechanism to resolve the
Korean Peninsula issues it is necessary to take into account and address
concerns related to its proliferation linkages.
The Sides expressed the serious concern about the possibility of an
arms race in outer space and of outer space turning into an arena for
military confrontation. They reaffirmed that the prevention of an arms
race in outer space (PAROS), would avert a grave danger for international
peace and security. The Sides welcomed the deliberations of the first
session of the UN Group of Governmental Experts on PAROS to discuss
possible elements for a legally binding instrument on PAROS including
inter alia, on the prevention of the placement of weapons in outer space.
They stressed that practical transparency and confidence building
measures might also contribute to the objectives of PAROS.
The Sides reaffirmed their determination to support efforts and
initiatives aimed at preserving the role of the Convention on the
Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of
Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction, and preventing the
politicization of the activities of the Organization for the Prohibition of
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Chemical Weapons. The Indian Side welcomed the Russian Federation's
early completion of destruction of its chemical weapons' stockpiles, which
represents a significant contribution to achieving the goal of creating a
world free from chemical weapons.
The Sides denounced terrorism in all its forms and manifestations
and reiterated the need to combat international terrorism with decisive
and collective response without any double standards. The Sides agreed to
converge their efforts to eradicate terrorist networks, their sources of
financing, arms and fighters supply channels, to counter terrorist ideology,
propaganda and recruitment. The Sides condemned all kinds of state
support to terrorists including cross border terrorism and providing safe
havens to terrorists and their network. Recognizing the importance of
adopting the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism,
pending in the United Nations, to become part of the international law,
both Sides called upon the international community to make sincere
efforts towards its early conclusion. То address the threats of chemical and
biological terrorism, the Sides supported and emphasized the need for
launching multilateral negotiations at the Conference on Disarmament on
an international convention for the suppression of acts of chemical and
biological terrorism.
The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of
international law and the centrality of the United Nations in international
relations. Both Sides share the view that implementation in good faith of
generally recognized principles and rules of international law excludes the
practice of double standards or imposition by some States of their will on
other States, and consider that imposition of unilateral coercive measures
not based on international law, is an example of such practice. Both Sides
would continue to work together to promote a democratic world order
based on global and shared interests.
The Sides reaffirmed the need to reform the UN Security Council to
better reflect the current world order and make it more effective in
dealing with emerging global challenges. Russia reiterated its unwavering
support to India for Permanent Membership in an expanded UNSC. Both
Sides resolved to work closely to ensure peace, security and equitable
development both regionally and globally and to coordinate their efforts to
address challenges to the stability of the world order.
The Sides reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Both Sides will pursue
equitable, open, all-round, innovation-driven and inclusive development,
to achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions - economic,
social and environmental - in a balanced and integrated manner. They
reiterate the important role of the United Nations, including the High Level
Political Forum on Sustainable Development, in coordinating and
reviewing global implementation of the 2030 Agenda. They agree on the
need to reform the UN Development System with a view to enhancing its
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capability in supporting Member States in implementing the 2030 Agenda.
Both Sides urged the developed countries to honor their Official
Development Assistance commitments in time and in full and provide
more development resources to developing countries.
The Sides committed to further promote green development and
low-carbon economy, in the context of sustainable development and
poverty eradication. They called upon all countries to fully implement the
Paris Agreement adopted under the principles of the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change including the principles of
common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and
urged developed countries to provide financial, technological and
capacity-building support to developing countries to enhance their
capability in mitigation and adaptation.
The Sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthen
global non-proliferation. Russia expressed its support for India’s
membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
The Sides stated the necessity of early adoption of rules, norms
and principles of responsible behavior of States in the use of ICTs, as well
as enhancement of international cooperation in the field of countering the
use of ICTs for criminal purposes by developing international legal
instrument in this sphere. In this regard the Sides underlined importance
of adoption of relevant resolutions by the UN General Assembly during its
73rd session. The Sides acknowledged the necessity to establish a
framework of cooperation among BRICS states on ensuring security in the
use of ICTs and confirmed intention to work towards elaboration of a
BRICS intergovernmental agreement on cooperation on this matter.
The Sides underlined common approaches to ensuring security in
the use of ICTs and their willingness to strengthen bilateral interagency
practical dialogue in furtherance of the intergovernmental Agreement on
Cooperation in the field of Security in the Use of Information and
Communication Technologies.
Both Sides supported the idea of the establishment of Regional
Security Architecture, that provides equal and indivisible security to all
countries in Asia and in the regions of Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Sides
emphasized the importance of the continuation of the multilateral
dialogue on this theme within the framework of the East Asia Summits and
other regional fora. Both Sides agreed that all new initiatives aimed at
strengthening of the regional order are to be based on multilateralism,
principles of transparency, inclusiveness, mutual respect and unity in the
common pursuit of progress and prosperity and not directed against any
country. In this regard, the Sides welcomed the constructive consultations
held at Moscow on 24 August 2018 between Deputy Foreign Minister of
the Russian Federation Igor Morgulov and Foreign Secretary of the
Republic of India Vijay Gokhale.
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The Sides confirmed their determination to enhance interaction
and coordination of efforts in the regional multilateral fora such as BRICS,
G-20, SCO, RIC and East Asia Summits. India expressed its aspiration to
broaden cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union.
The Sides noted that the participation of the Prime Minister of the
Republic of India Narendra Modi in the SCO Heads of State Council Meeting
in Qingdao in June 2018 marked successful involvement of India in the
work of the Organization as a full-fledged member. The Sides, confirming
their commitment to the SCO Charter, norms and principles of
international law, will continue coordinated efforts to further realize the
potential of the Organization in all directions of its activities.
Special attention will be paid to the issues of security and stability,
including combating terrorism, illegal drug-trafficking and organized
crime, thereby increasing effectiveness of cooperation within the SCO
Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.
Russia welcomed the participation of India in the counter-terror
military exercise "Peace Mission – 2018”. Both Sides consider the goal of
developing an economic component of SCO as an important one, including
realization of transportation and infrastructure projects aimed at
providing interconnection within the SCO Organization and with
observers, partner countries, as well as other interested states. They stood
for increasing the role of SCO in the international affairs and believe it
necessary to expand contacts and cooperation of SCO with the UN and its
structures, other international and regional organizations. The Sides
agreed to deepen cultural and humanitarian ties within the SCO.
The Sides stand for strengthening of open, inclusive, transparent,
non-discriminatory and rules-based multilateral trade system and
prevention of fragmentation of international trade relations and trade
protectionism in all forms.
India welcomed the initiative of Russia to create a Larger Eurasian
Partnership that stipulates conjugation of national development strategies
and multilateral integration projects in the interests of building effective
platform of constructive cooperation based on strict observance of the
international law, principles of equality, mutual respect and taking in
account each other national perspectives.
The Sides expressed their satisfaction on the progress in India -
Russia relations, shared interests and similar positions on issues of
bilateral and international importance and agreed to continue this
trajectory of closer cooperation, coordination and consolidation of gains to
surge ahead the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership of India and
Russia for the mutual prosperity of people of both countries.
President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin thanked Prime
Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi for the hospitality
extended and invited him to visit Russia for the 20th Annual Summit in
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2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the invitation with great
pleasure.
Source: https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateraldocuments.htm?dtl/30469/
IndiaRussia_Joint_Statement_during_visit_of_President_of_Russia_to_India_
October_05_2018
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Document: 2
Joint Statement on the Inaugural U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial
Dialogue, Media Note-Office of the Spokesperson, Washington D.
C., September 6, 2018.
inister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Minister of Defence
Nirmala Sitharaman welcomed Secretary of State Michael R.
Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis to India on
September 6, 2018, for the inaugural U.S.-India Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue.
They welcomed the launch of the 2+2 Dialogue as a reflection of the
shared commitment by Prime Minister Modi and President Trump to
provide a positive, forward-looking vision for the India-U.S. strategic
partnership and to promote synergy in their diplomatic and security
efforts. They resolved to continue meetings in this format on an annual
basis.
Celebrating over 70 years of diplomatic cooperation, the Ministers
reaffirmed their view that India and the United States, as sovereign
democracies founded on the values of freedom, justice, and commitment
to the rule of law, must continue to lead global efforts to promote peace,
prosperity, and security.
Recognizing their two countries are strategic partners, major and
independent stakeholders in world affairs, the Ministers committed to
work together on regional and global issues, including in bilateral,
trilateral, and quadrilateral formats. The two sides further decided to
establish secure communication between the Minister of External Affairs
of India and the U.S. Secretary of State, and between the Minister of
Defence of India and the U.S. Secretary of Defense, to help maintain regular
high-level communication on emerging developments.
Strengthening the Defense and Security Partnership
The Ministers reaffirmed the strategic importance of India’s
designation as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) of the United States and
committed to expand the scope of India’s MDP status and take mutually
agreed upon steps to strengthen defense ties further and promote better
defense and security coordination and cooperation. They noted the rapid
growth in bilateral defense trade and the qualitative improvement in
levels of technology and equipment offered by the United States to India in
recent years. They welcomed the inclusion of India by the United States
among the top tier of countries entitled to license-free exports, re-exports,
and transfers under License Exception Strategic Trade Authorization
(STA-1) and also committed to explore other means to support further
expansion in two-way trade in defense items and defense manufacturing
supply chain linkages. They welcomed the signing of a Communications
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Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) that will facilitate
access to advanced defense systems and enable India to optimally utilize
its existing U.S.-origin platforms. The Ministers also announced their
readiness to begin negotiations on an Industrial Security Annex (ISA) that
would support closer defense industry cooperation and collaboration.
Recognizing their rapidly growing military-to-military ties, the two
sides committed to the creation of a new, tri-services exercise and to
further increase personnel exchanges between the two militaries and
defense organizations. The Ministers reviewed the recent growth of
bilateral engagements in support of maritime security and maritime
domain awareness, and committed to expand cooperation. Toward that
end, the Ministers committed to start exchanges between the U.S. Naval
Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and the Indian Navy, underscoring
the importance of deepening their maritime cooperation in the western
Indian Ocean.
Acknowledging the unique role of technology in the U.S.-India
defense partnership, the Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to
continue to encourage and prioritize co-production and co-development
projects through the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), and
to pursue other avenues of defense innovation cooperation. In this regard,
they welcomed the conclusion of a Memorandum of Intent between the
U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Indian Defence Innovation
Organization – Innovation for Defence Excellence (DIO-iDEX).
Welcoming the expansion of bilateral counter-terrorism
cooperation, the Ministers announced their intent to increase information-
sharing efforts on known or suspected terrorists and to implement UN
Security Council Resolution 2396 on returning foreign terrorist fighters.
They committed to enhance their ongoing cooperation in multilateral fora
such as the UN and FATF. They reaffirmed their support for a UN
Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism that will advance
and strengthen the framework for global cooperation and reinforce the
message that no cause or grievance justifies terrorism. The Ministers
denounced any use of terrorist proxies in the region, and in this context,
they called on Pakistan to ensure that the territory under its control is not
used to launch terrorist attacks on other countries. On the eve of the 10-
year anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attack, they called on Pakistan to
bring to justice expeditiously the perpetrators of the Mumbai, Pathankot,
Uri, and other cross-border terrorist attacks. The Ministers welcomed the
launch of a bilateral dialogue on designation of terrorists in 2017, which is
strengthening cooperation and action against terrorist groups, including
Al-Qa’ida, ISIS, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Hizb-ul
Mujahideen, the Haqqani Network, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, D-Company,
and their affiliates. The two sides further reaffirmed their commitment to
ongoing and future cooperation to ensure a stable cyberspace
environment and to prevent cyber-attacks.
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Partners in the Indo-Pacific and Beyond
The Ministers reviewed cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region,
noting that the common principles for the region articulated in the India-
U.S. Joint Statement of June 2017 have been further amplified by President
Donald Trump at Danang, Vietnam on November 10, 2017, and Prime
Minister Narendra Modi in Singapore at the Shangri-La Dialogue on June 1,
2018. Both sides committed to work together and in concert with other
partners toward advancing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region,
based on recognition of ASEAN centrality and on respect for sovereignty,
territorial integrity, rule of law, good governance, free and fair trade, and
freedom of navigation and overflight. Noting the importance of
infrastructure and connectivity for the Indo-Pacific region, both sides
emphasized the need to work collectively with other partner countries to
support transparent, responsible, and sustainable debt financing practices
in infrastructure development.
The Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to a united,
sovereign, democratic, inclusive, stable, prosperous, and peaceful
Afghanistan. The two sides expressed support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-
owned peace and reconciliation process. The United States acknowledged
India’s longstanding and ongoing contributions of economic assistance to
Afghanistan and also welcomed India’s enhanced role in Afghanistan’s
development and stabilization.
India welcomed the recent U.S.-North Korea summit. The two sides
pledged to work together to counter North Korea’s weapons of mass
destruction programs and to hold accountable those countries that have
supported them.
The United States welcomed India’s accession to the Australia
Group, the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the Missile Technology Control
Regime and reiterated its full support for India’s immediate accession to
the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
Promoting Prosperity and People-to-People Ties
The Ministers recognized the importance and the potential for
increasing bilateral trade, investment, innovation, and job creation in both
countries. Both sides committed to further expanding and balancing the
trade and economic partnership consistent with their leaders’ 2017 joint
statement, including by facilitating trade, improving market access, and
addressing issues of interest to both sides. In this regard, both sides
welcomed the ongoing exchanges between the Ministry of Commerce of
India and the Office of the United States Trade Representative and hoped
for mutually acceptable outcomes.
Both sides looked forward to full implementation of the civil
nuclear energy partnership and collaboration between Nuclear Power
Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Westinghouse Electric Company
for the establishment of six nuclear power plants in India.
106 Journal of Contemporary Studies, Vol. VII, No.2, Winter 2018
Observing the strong ties of family, education, and business, and
the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that unite their people, the
Ministers highlighted the unmatched people-to-people ties between their
countries and recognized the benefits to both nations and the world from
these ties, including the free flow of ideas and collaboration in health,
space, oceans, and other areas of science and technology.
Source: https://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2018/09/285729.htm
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Document: 3
Joint Statement between the People's Republic of China and the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Strengthening China-Pakistan
All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership and Building
Closer China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New
Era, Beijing, November 4, 2018.
t the invitation of H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the
People's Republic of China, H.E. Imran Khan, Prime Minister of the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan, paid his first official visit to China on
November2-5, 2018. During his visit, H.E. Imran Khan called on H.E. Xi
Jinping, President of China, held talks with H.E. Li Keqiang, Premier, and
met with H.E. Li Zhanshu, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the the
National People's Congress, and H.E. Wang Qishan, Vice President of China
respectively. Meetings were marked by traditional warmth, mutual
understanding and trust, and the leaders of the two countries had an in-
depth exchange of views on bilateral, regional and international issues of
mutual interest. Prime Minister Imran Khan also delivered a speech at the
Party School of CPC Central Committee. Besides Beijing, Prime Minister
Imran Khan also visited Shanghai to attend the First China International
Import Expo.
Reviewing with satisfaction the historical development of China-
Pakistan relations and the great strides made, both sides reiterated that
the friendship between Pakistan and China has withstood the test of time,
notwithstanding the changes in domestic, regional and international
environments. The two sides agreed to further strengthen the China-
Pakistan All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, and build closer
China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the new era in line with
the principles set forth by the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Good-
neighborly Relations between the People's Republic of China and the
Islamic Republic of Pakistan signed in 2005.
1. Political Relations and Strategic Communication
Both sides stressed that China and Pakistan are good neighbors,
close friends, iron brothers and trusted partners. The friendship and
cooperation between China and Pakistan serve the fundamental interests
of the two countries and peoples, and contribute to peace, stability and
development in the region and beyond. Both sides will continue to view
China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective.
The Chinese side reiterated that China's relationship with Pakistan
is always a matter of highest priority in its foreign policy. China
appreciated the consistent and strong support by Pakistan to China's
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issues of core interest, and reaffirmed its support and solidarity with
Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty, independence, territorial
integrity and security. It appreciated Pakistan's important role in
promoting regional peace, stability and security and efforts for the
peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues with its neighbors.
The Pakistani side stressed that Pakistan-China relationship is the
cornerstone of its foreign policy, and friendship with China represents
national consensus and the common desire of all Pakistani people.
Pakistan appreciated the strong support and assistance provided by the
government and people of China to Pakistan in its economic development.
It unequivocally upholds the one-China policy and supports all efforts
made by the Chinese government to realize national reunification.
Both sides agreed to maintain frequent exchange of visits and
meetings at the leadership level and continue to hold bilateral meetings
between their leaders on the sidelines of major multilateral conferences
and events. The two sides agreed to further strengthen links between their
legislative bodies. China welcomed the establishment of Pakistan-China
Friendship Groups in Pakistani Parliament.
Both sides agreed to establish the mechanism of China-Pakistan
Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue and rename the former Strategic
Dialogue at Vice Foreign Minister-level to Political Consultations. They also
agreed to continue exchange programmes pertaining to training of
diplomats.
2. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
Prime Minister Imran Khan commended President Xi Jinping's
visionary Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that aims at enhancing regional
and international connectivity. The two sides reiterated that BRI
represents a win-win model of international cooperation and provides
new opportunities for economic rejuvenation and prosperity of all
countries. As a signature project of BRI, the fast development of CPEC has
played a significant role in the Belt and Road cooperation.
Both sides reviewed the early harvest phase of CPEC and
expressed satisfaction that rapid progress has been made in all areas
especially in the energy sector. The two sides reaffirmed their complete
consensus on the future trajectory of the CPEC, timely completion of its
on-going projects and joint efforts for realization of its full potential with a
focus on social-economic development, job creation and livelihoods and
accelerating cooperation in industrial development, industrial parks and
agriculture.
Both sides agreed to task the CPEC Joint Cooperation Committee
(JCC) to explore new areas of cooperation. In this regard, it was decided
that the eight session of the JCC will be held in Beijing before the end of the
year. To further expand cooperation under CPEC, the two sides announced
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the setting up of a working group on social-economic development to
assist with livelihood projects in Pakistan.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to CPEC and agreed that it
was a win-win enterprise for entire region and would bring regional
prosperity and development through enhanced connectivity. They agreed
to discuss the CPEC-related issues including through China-Pakistan
Strategic Dialogue, political consultations and JCC.
Recognizing the significance of Gwadar as an important node in
cross-regional connectivity and the central pillar of CPEC, both sides
agreed to speed up progress on the Port and its auxiliary projects.
Both sides dismissed the growing negative propaganda against
CPEC and expressed determination to safeguard the CPEC projects from all
threats. Pakistan recognized the immense contribution of the Chinese
personnel working on various economic projects in Pakistan. The Chinese
side expressed its appreciation for the measures taken for the security of
Chinese personnel and projects in Pakistan.
3. Trade, Investment and Financial Cooperation
The two sides agreed to further consolidate and expand bilateral
economic relations as a matter of high priority and to strengthen multi-
faceted pragmatic cooperation in trade and investment. They agreed to
boost Pakistan's industrial capacity including through joint ventures in
priority areas, relocation of labor-intensive industry and SMEs
collaboration.
The two sides noted the growing volume of bilateral trade and
agreed to take concrete measures to address trade imbalance. These
would include exchange of trade missions, broadening market access for
agricultural and ICT products, and simplifying customs, quarantine and
phytosanitary procedures. In this context, the two sides agreed to
conclude the second phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement as
early as possible, and continue discussions on the Pakistan-China
Agreement on Trade in Services.
The two sides agreed to strengthen economic cooperation by fully
leveraging the existing cooperative arrangements such as China-Pakistan
Business Council, which is composed of China Council for the Promotion of
International Trade (CCPIT) and the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of
Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), and those between Stock Exchanges of
the two countries. The two sides agreed to hold the next round of the Joint
Economic Commission early next year.
The two sides attached importance to friendly cooperation
between the People's Bank of China and the State Bank of Pakistan. They
expressed satisfaction at the operationalization of the currency-swap
agreement and reaffirmed the need to further strengthen cooperative ties
of financial and banking sectors between the two countries. Both sides
noted with satisfaction that Chinese and Pakistani banks have operations
110 Journal of Contemporary Studies, Vol. VII, No.2, Winter 2018
in both countries. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on tourism
promotion.
4. Marine, Science and Technology, Space, Environmental and
Agricultural Cooperation
Both sides agreed to further strengthen policy dialogue and
strategic communication on maritime issues and expressed satisfaction on
the China-Pakistan Maritime Cooperation Dialogue. They agreed to
continue their close cooperation on navigation security, marine economy,
exploration and utilization of marine resources, marine scientific research
and marine environmental protection.
Both sides agreed to further expand and deepen their
collaboration including in the areas of new and emerging technologies,
nanotechnology, biotechnology, ICT, which can contribute to improved
living standards through their applications in the fields of health,
agriculture, water, energy and food security.
The two sides agreed to actively promote 2012-2020 Space
Cooperation Outline between China National Space Administration (CNSA)
and Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission
(SUPARCO) . Expressing satisfaction on the launch of Pakistan Remote
Sensing Satellite (PRSS) earlier this year, both sides agreed to further
strengthen bilateral cooperation in space technology applications. The two
sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of manned space, and
the China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) and SUPARCO will
sign a framework agreement on cooperation.
Both sides agreed to enhance their cooperation in the areas of
climate change, desertification control, desalination, water management,
afforestation and ecological restoration, wetland protection and
restoration, wildlife protection, forestry industry development, disaster
management and risk reduction, and other areas of mutual interest.
Pakistan side recognized the great strides made by China in the
field of agriculture. Both sides agreed to build on existing cooperation in
the area of agriculture and explore new areas of joint collaboration.
5. Social Sector Cooperation
Pakistan expressed a desire to learn from the Chinese poverty
alleviation model, which has lifted over 700 million people out of poverty
over the last forty years. China is willing to strengthen policy dialogue,
experience sharing and capacity building in the field of poverty reduction
with Pakistan, and support Pakistan to establish poverty alleviation
demonstration projects. The Chinese assistance will also be directed
towards agriculture, education, health, poverty alleviation, safe drinking
water and vocational training.
Both sides also agreed to enhance collaboration in the field of
health care,medical and surgical treatment. Both sides will share best
Documents 111
practices and explore collaboration in the fields of disease surveillance and
control, vaccine production as well as traditional medicine.
The Pakistan side recognized China's unremitting efforts to combat
corruption and its great achievements, and evinced interest in learning
from the Chinese experience and accomplishments in the field of anti-
corruption.
6. People-to-People and Cultural Linkages
Both sides reiterated the importance of people-to-people contacts
and cultural exchanges and agreed to encourage mutual visits of national
of the two countries. Both sides agreed to improve visa facilitation for
mutual visits.
Both sides decided to celebrate Pakistan-China Year of
Friendship/Sister Cities in 2019 and to establish friendship city
relationships between corresponding Chinese and Pakistani cities and
provinces. It was agreed to enhance exchanges and dialogue between
leaders at provincial and local levels. The two sides agreed to further
enhance cooperation between neighboring regions of the two countries,
particularly in the areas of economy, trade, transportation, energy,
industry, tourism, education, people-to-people contacts and livelihoods.
Both sides expressed satisfaction at the growing cooperation in the
field of education and agreed to intensify educational linkages especially
between higher education institutions. China is a popular destination for
Pakistani students with about 25,000 Pakistanis enrolled across
universities in China. China will offer additional scholarships for Pakistani
students.
They agreed to encourage respective universities to develop
bilateral linkages including through joint degree and exchange
programmes. They further agreed to promote teaching of Pakistan Studies
and Urdu language at Chinese Universities and Sinology and Chinese
language at Pakistani Universities. Both sides agreed to negotiate
agreements on mutual recognition of higher education degrees, diplomas
and certificates as early as possible.
The Chinese side agreed to continue supporting Pakistan in
technical and vocational training to develop a skilled manpower for
employment in CEPC projects, including through assistance in upgrading
vocational training institutes, vocational training exchanges, and capacity
building of the trainers.
Both sides agreed to further promote exchanges between the think
tanks including through conferences, seminars and fellowships. Both sides
would encourage cooperation between their media houses and exchange
visits and training programmes for journalists/media personnel.
Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation in culture, arts,
broadcasting, films, publication and sports under the Executive
Programme of the Cultural Agreement between the two countries. The two
112 Journal of Contemporary Studies, Vol. VII, No.2, Winter 2018
sides shall enhance exchanges and cooperation in museums and promote
exchanges in the conservation and presentation of heritage and artifacts
and exchange of archaeologists between the two countries. The two sides
shall discuss the possibility to organize an Ancient Pakistan and Gandhara
Artifacts Exhibition in Beijing. They also agreed to strengthen cooperation
in the field of sports. The respective sports authorities will discuss further
details. The two sides will actively encourage and support their publishing
houses to translate and print literary classics so that the people of the two
countries can appreciate each other's rich culture.
The two sides also agreed to establish China-Pakistan Youth
Communication Committee, which will coordinate the exchange of youth
and cooperation on youth affairs.
7. Defence, Security and Counter-terrorism Cooperation
Both sides agreed to further enhance defence cooperation,
maintain high-level visits and exchanges at various levels between
relevant departments of the two armed forces, make full use of the China-
Pakistan Defence and Security Consultation mechanism, deepen
cooperation in areas such as military exercises, training cooperation,
personnel exchanges, and equipment and technology cooperation.
Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation against "Three
Evils" of extremism, terrorism and separatism. Both sides will continue to
regularly utilize their existing mechanisms of Strategic Dialogue and
Counter-terrorism and Security Consultations to further promote
communication and cooperation in relevant fields.
The Chinese side conveyed its support to Pakistan's commitment
and efforts to counter terrorism, assured Pakistan of its support in
implementing its counter-terrorism strategy, and commended the
tremendous sacrifices made by the Pakistani nation in fight against
terrorism and for Pakistan's immense contribution to regional and
international peace and security through its achievements and successes.
The Chinese side recognized Pakistan's efforts in actively strengthening
financial regulations to combat terrorism financing, and called on all
relevant parties to view Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts in an
objective and fair manner.
The Pakistani side reaffirmed its support to the Chinese side in
safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and combating separatism,
terrorism and extremism including East Turkistan Islamic Movement
(ETIM).
8. International and Regional Issues
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the purposes and
principles of the UN Charter, promoting international peace and security,
and safeguarding the contemporary world order and the UN-centric
international system. They agreed to jointly promote multilateralism, free
Documents 113
trade and win-win cooperation. The two sides support a consensus-based
reform of the United Nations so that it responds to the interests and
concerns of all Member States. Being major contributors to the UN
Peacekeeping Operations over the years, the two sides agreed to enhance
policy coordination, capacity building and sharing of good practices on
peacekeeping.
Both sides believed that peace, development, cooperation and win-
win are shared aspirations of the peoples in the region. All nations should
promote cooperative and sustainable security, refrain from developing
relations targeting any third country, contribute more to the mutual trust
between regional countries, and respect sovereign decisions of countries
in determining their development paths and respective foreign policies, so
as to jointly safeguard the peace and stability of the region.
Both sides believe that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and
prosperous South Asia is in the common interest of all parties. Both sides
emphasized the importance of pursuit of dialogue and resolution of all
outstanding disputes to promote regional cooperation and advance the
goals of lasting peace, stability and shared prosperity. China appreciates
Pakistan's quest for peace through dialogue, cooperation and negotiation,
on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and supports Pakistan's
efforts for improvement of Pakistan-India relations and for settlement of
outstanding disputes between the two countries. Pakistan supported
active participation of China at the platform of the South Asian Association
for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on the Afghan issue
and support the 'Afghan-owned and Afghan-led' peace and reconciliation
process. China appreciates that Pakistan and Afghanistan are coordinating
closely through the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and
Solidarity (APAPPS) to enhance cooperation between the two countries in
all areas. Both sides agreed on the importance of China-Afghanistan-
Pakistan consultations at the Foreign Ministers level aimed at deepening
trilateral cooperation for shared progress, development and security and
for strengthening peace and stability in Afghanistan. Both sides supported
Afghanistan to host the second tripartite foreign minister dialogue within
this year.
The two sides underlined the importance of peaceful settlement of
all disputes in the Middle East on the basis of mutual respect and in
accordance to the precepts of international law.
The two sides agreed that JCPOA is an important outcome of
multilateralism and a good model of negotiated settlement of complex
issues through dialogue and diplomacy. They called on parties to uphold
their respective commitments and to resolve all issues through dialogue.
They opposed unilateral measures and long-arm jurisdiction that is
inconsistent with the principles of international law.
114 Journal of Contemporary Studies, Vol. VII, No.2, Winter 2018
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral, non-
discriminatory arms control and non-proliferation endeavours. They
noted with concern the continued pursuit of double standards in the
application of non-proliferation norms and procedures and called for
policies upholding rule of law and long-standing rules. China appreciates
and supports steps taken by Pakistan for strengthening the global non-
proliferation regime. In this context, China supports Pakistan's
engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and welcomes its
adherence of NSG Guidelines.
Recalling the commitments of all states for implementation of
General Assembly and Security Council resolutions relating to
international terrorism, both sides underscored the need for all States to
avoid politicization of the UN Sanctions regime and the work of the
Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Both sides also reiterated the need to
evolve the text of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism
on the basis of consensus.
Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation on
international and regional issues of common interest; and maintain close
communication and coordination within international and regional
organizations and mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization (SCO), SAARC, the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM),
the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the Conference on Interaction and
Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). China welcomed Pakistan's
membership of SCO and appreciated its active participation in the SCO
Summit in Qingdao in June 2018.
During the visit, the two sides also signed fifteen (15)
Agreements/MoUs on a range of bilateral issues.
Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his appreciation to the
leadership and people of China for the warm hospitality accorded to him
and his delegation and invited Chinese leaders to visit Pakistan at a
mutually convenient time.
Source: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjdt_665385/2649_
665393/t1610025.shtml
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Document: 4
Statement by H.E. Wang Yi State Councilor and Foreign Minister
of the People's Republic of China at the Security Council Open
Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security,
UN Headquarters, New York,September 26, 2018.
r. President,
Safeguarding world peace and security is the primary
responsibility of the Security Council entrusted by the UN Charter
and a shared responsibility of all the Council members.
Facing complex challenges to international peace and security, how can
the Security Council fulfill its responsibility and play its due role? This is a
question that deserves serious consideration. In this context, China would
like to suggest the following:
- The Security Council should remain committed to performing its duties
under the Charter in a just manner. It should uphold multilateralism, the
purposes and principles of the UN Charter and universally-recognized
international law and basic norms governing international relations, and
safeguard the authority and role of the United Nations in international
affairs as well as the sovereignty, independence and legitimate rights and
interests of all countries.
- The Security Council should remain committed to the basic orientation of
political resolution. It should act as a strong advocate and be closely
engaged in efforts for political settlement, and work to resolve differences
and disputes through dialogue and consultation. It should enhance
preventive diplomacy with effective use of good offices, mediation,
peacekeeping and peace building in the service of the general objective of
political resolution.
- The Security Council should remain committed to enhancing solidarity
and consensus building. Keeping in mind their responsibility for
safeguarding world peace and security, Council members should enhance
solidarity and coordination, reject geopolitical maneuvering, and work
together to ensure that the Security Council functions effectively and the
common interests of broad members of the UN are upheld.
- The Security Council should strengthen synergy through closer
coordination. It should coordinate and cooperate with the UN General
Assembly, ECOSOC, the UN Secretary-General and the UN development
system for mutual support between the political pillar and the
development pillar, and for mutually reinforcing progress of their efforts
for lasting peace and sustainable development.
Mr. President,
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116 Journal of Contemporary Studies, Vol. VII, No.2, Winter 2018
The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means
of delivery pose a real threat to global peace and security and a common
challenge to the international community.
China believes that efforts should be stepped up in the following
three areas:
First, we need to uphold the rule of law and consolidate the
international non-proliferation regime. The Treaty on the Non-
Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Biological Weapons Convention, the
Chemical Weapons Convention, the UNSCR 1540 and other Security
Council resolutions constitute the legal basis of the international non-
proliferation regime. We should earnestly safeguard the universality,
effectiveness and authority of the non-proliferation regime. In particular,
efforts should be made to prevent and stop terrorists and other non-state
actors from getting hold of WMD materials and technology.
Second, we need to take multi-pronged measures to implement the
non-proliferation conventions in a balanced manner. All countries need to
stand by their commitments, honor non-proliferation responsibilities and
fulfill international obligations. The non-proliferation conventions and
agreements must be implemented in their entirety; any double standards,
discriminatory arrangements or selective enforcement must not be
allowed.
Third, we need to strengthen international cooperation and build
the non-proliferation capacity of all countries. As governments bear the
primary responsibility for non-proliferation, we should support them in
developing their own non-proliferation policies in line with national
conditions, and encourage continued efforts to enhance relevant law
enforcement capabilities and engage in more exchanges and practical
cooperation with the aim of shoring up the weak links and promoting
universal security.
Mr. President,
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian
nuclear issue is a hard-won outcome of multilateralism. It contributes to
the international nuclear non-proliferation regime as well as peace and
stability in the Middle East. No international agreement is impeccable. The
JCPOA was unanimously endorsed by the Security Council, and has proved
to be effective during the past three years. China encourages Iran to
continue to fulfill the commitments it has made. At the same time, the
lawful right of parties to conduct normal economic and trade cooperation
with Iran should be respected. We call on the relevant parties to keep in
mind the bigger and longer-term interests and uphold the sanctity,
integrity and efficacy of the JCPOA.
Over the past few months, the situation on the Korean Peninsula
has eased significantly. China welcomes this development, and has made
tireless efforts to this end. We support the important common
understanding reached by the leaders of the DPRK and the US in Singapore
Documents 117
and the all-round improvement in inter-Korea relations. We call on all
parties to cherish and seize the opportunities at hand, turn political
commitments into concrete actions, and continue to work toward the
complete denuclearization and the setting-up of a peace mechanism on the
Peninsula, with a view to attaining lasting peace there at an early date.
Mr. President,
China has stood by its solemn commitment to the purposes and
principles of the UN Charter. We are committed to upholding the
contemporary international system with the UN at its core and have
conscientiously fulfilled our international responsibilities and obligations.
Let us all work together to advance peace and security for the benefit of
all.
Before I conclude, let me stress that China has all along followed
the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs. This
tradition of China's foreign policy has won extensive acclaim in the
international community. China has not, is not, and will not engage in any
such interference. Unfounded accusations in this regard cannot be
accepted. We call on other countries to also observe the purposes of the
UN Charter and not to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries.
Thank you, Mr. President.
Source: https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjdt_665385/
zyjh_665391/t1600859.shtml