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Parliamentary delegation from Zimbabwe calls on the President

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Parliamentary delegation from Zimbabwe calls on the President

New Delhi – A Parliamentary Delegation from Zimbabwe led by Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, called on President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (December 7, 2022).

Welcoming the delegation to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President said that relations between India and Zimbabwe are centuries old. The presence of about 9000 people of Indian origin in Zimbabwe is an important link between our people.

The President was happy to note that India’s economic relations with Zimbabwe are progressing well. The trade between India and Zimbabwe is around $200 million. Indian companies have invested about $500 million in Zimbabwe. India has provided five lines of credit to Zimbabwe, and has also set up a vocational training centre. She was also happy to note that the ITEC and ICCR scholarships from India are popular among Zimbabweans. She said that we should make more efforts to enhance our bilateral cooperation.

The President said that Parliament represents the voice of the people. There should be more interaction and exchange between our two parliaments. We have a lot to learn from each other.

The President said that India is the world’s largest democracy. Our strong and vibrant democracy starts from the grassroots level. It truly represents the people of this country. She expressed confidence that the delegation would learn more about India’s democratic systems during this visit.

India and Zimbabwe Relations 

India and Zimbabwe have a long history of close and cordial relations. During
the era of the Munhumutapa Kingdom, dating back to 14th century and later, Indian
merchants established strong links with Zimbabwe, trading in textiles, minerals and
metals. India had extended support to liberation movement of Zimbabwe. Then PM
Smt. Indira Gandhi participated in the Independence Day celebrations in 1980.

Since then, several Indian Prime Ministers and then President of India, Dr. S.D.
Sharma has visited Zimbabwe, and President Mugabe has visited India several
times. He has also been a recipient of the Jawaharlal Nehru Award in 1989.
However, since 1996 no bilateral high level visit from India has taken place, though
former PM Shri Vajpayee and President Mugabe had met twice on the sidelines of
UNGA and NAM Summits in 2003.

India and Zimbabwe share a similarity of views on most international issues
and closely cooperate at UN, NAM and other multilateral fora like WTO and G-15.
India has supported Zimbabwe in the Human Rights Commission and Zimbabwe
supported India for its elections to ECOSOC, UNESCO, and Council of the
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and in the UN Human Rights Council
elections.

India and Zimbabwe are members of G-20 in WTO and having common
position on IPRs and agricultural subsidies. Zimbabwe generally supports India in
most of the elections in the multilateral fora and our Resolutions in the UN.

During
the year 2011, Zimbabwe supported India´s candidates for election to the UN
Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Question (ACABQ).Zimbabwe also supported our candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UNSC.

Via – PIB | PRESIDENT OF INDIA MEDIA

National Green Tribunal (NGT) Orders for Control of Pollution, ensuring water quality better

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National Green Tribunal (NGT) Orders for Control of Pollution, ensuring water quality better

New Delhi – National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directions, among others, for ensuring water quality and e-flow in the rivers, vide order/judgement dated 10.12.2015 and 13.07.2017 in Original Application (OA) 200 of 2014 and vide order dated 20.09.2018 in OA No. 673 of 2018.

NGT in its orders in Original Application No. 673 of 2018, directed all State and Union Territory (UT) Governments concerned to implement Action Plans approved by task team of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for rejuvenation/ restoration of polluted river stretches (PRS) falling in category priority I to priority IV. All concerned State/ UT Governments were directed to ensure execution of approved action plans by 30.06.2021 for bringing all the polluted river stretches identified by CPCB fit for bathing purpose (i.e Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) < 3 milligram/litre, Dissolved Oxygen more than 5.0 mg/l and Feacal Coliform < 500MPN/100ml). River Rejuvenation Committees (RRCs) have been constituted by State/UT Governments for preparation and implementation of approved action plan for PRS falling in category priority V, and a Central Monitoring Committee (CMC) has been constituted at Central level to monitor progress of implementation.

Pursuant to the orders of Hon’ble NGT in OA No. 673 of 2018, CMC meetings are held on a regular basis under the chairmanship of Secretary, Department of Water Resource, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, wherein implementation of approved action plans formulated by the concerned States/ UTs are reviewed.

CPCB in association with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) in different States/Union Territories (UTs), have been monitoring the water quality of rivers and other water bodies across the country through a network of monitoring stations under the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme. Based on water quality monitoring results, pollution assessment of rivers has been carried out by CPCB from time to time. As per the last report published by CPCB in September 2018, 351 polluted stretches were identified on 323 rivers based on monitoring results in terms of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), an indicator of organic pollution. State/UT wise details of polluted river stretches are at Annexure.

Out of total 351 PRS in the country, 53 PRS were identified in the State of Maharashtra. These include 9 stretches in priority I, 6 in priority II, 14 in priority III, 10 in priority IV and 14 in priority V.

NRCP has so far covered 78 polluted stretches on 36 rivers in 80 towns spread over 16 States in the country with the sanctioned cost of projects as Rs.6248.16 crore, and sewage treatment capacity of 2745.7 MLD created. Under Namami Gange programme, 406 projects, including 176 projects for sewage treatment of 5270 MLD and a sewer network of 5214 km, have been sanctioned at a cost of Rs.32898 crore against which sewerage treatment capacity of 1858 MLD has been created so far.

In addition, sewerage infrastructure is created under programs like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT) and Smart Cities Mission of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.

Steps taken by the Government to stop discharge of industrial effluents into rivers inter alia, include issuance of notification of specific discharge standards, revision of the criteria for categorization of industries and issuing directions to all SPCBs/ PCCs to adopt the same, issuance of consent to establish/consent to operate by the SPCBs/PCCs, based on Comprehensive Environment Pollution Index (CEPI) critically polluted areas are identified to take necessary measures through time-targeted Action Plans, regular inspections of Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs) by CPCB for compliance verification, installation of Online Continuous Effluent Monitoring System (OCEMS) for assessment of effluent quality and compliance status. In addition, the industries are encouraged to reduce their waste water generation by technological advancement, reuse/recycle of wastewater and maintain Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) where ever possible.

 

As per the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution), Act 1974, industrial units are required to install effluent treatment plants (ETPs) and treat their effluents to comply with stipulated environmental standards before discharging into river and water bodies. Accordingly, CPCB, SPCBs and PCCs monitor industries with respect to effluent discharge standards and take punitive action for non-compliance under provisions of these Acts.

Cleaning of river is a continuous process. A number of sewerage infrastructure projects have been completed in a time bound manner in the years 2020-22. Improvement in water quality of identified rivers is being reported by several States.

This Information was given by the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Bishweswar Tudu in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

Via – PIB

International World Constitutional Parliamentary Award Honored to Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia from Assam

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International World Constitutional Parliamentary Award Honored to Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia from Assam

Diplomat Times (Mumbai) – Global President of the Association of World Constitutional Parliamentarians, Professor Dr Glenn T. Martin, conferred the International World Constitutional Parliamentarian Award to Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia, a national-level human rights and social activist from Assam.

Speaking at a brief function at Shrirampur near Shirdi, Martin said the award had been presented to Dr Saikia for his outstanding service to human society over the last 24 years for human rights, humanity and peace. Under the award, he was given a commemorative certificate and books.

After receiving the international award, Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia said that the United Nations had recognized the languages of various small-world countries. Still, Hindi has yet to be identified, although Hindi is spoken by many people worldwide.

He said that freedom of expression is being violated in other countries of the world as well as in India.

He further said that nuclear missiles, bombs, war etc. are not suitable for the modern civilized world. For the last 24 years, apart from the remarkable work done during the Covid period with various services to humanity, he has also filed a case in the National Human Rights Commission regarding fake police encounters in Assam and multiple provinces. Due to the cognizance of his claim, such a case has stayed. It is noteworthy that Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia has already received more than 116 national and international awards.

He runs awareness campaigns against superstition, witchcraft and drugs nationally and in Assam. He is treating many victims and helping many families in various ways. Dr Dibyajyoti Saikia greeted Dr Glenn T. Martin, Mrs Phyllis Turk and other US citizens by presenting them with flowers, tea and rhino mementoes.

Melinda French Gates, Co-Chair and Trustee of the Bill Gate Foundation meet President of India HE Droupaadi Murmu

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New Delhi –  Melinda French Gates, Co-Chair and Trustee of the Bill Gate Foundation meet President of India HE Droupadi Murmu today at Rashtarpati Bhawan in New Delhi.

Welcoming Ms Melinda French Gates to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President was happy to note the work done by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation over the past two decades.

The President said that the Government of India is investing significantly in health and development through a range of flagship initiatives. The Government is making special efforts to ensure an inclusive approach, so that the benefits reach the most vulnerable and disadvantaged sections of society.

She expressed confidence that the Foundation would also make efforts to reach those who are most in need – whether they are women and girls, tribal communities, or those residing in remote parts of the country. The President also highlighted the role of women in the overall development of the country, and called on the Foundation to continue its efforts towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.

The President appreciated the pioneering work of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in public health, infectious disease control and malaria and TB prevention. She encouraged the Foundation to also give attention to other serious ailments, such as sickle cell anemia, which particularly afflicts tribal communities. The President also appreciated the good work of the Foundation in the area of agricultural development, and urged the Foundation to consider starting cooperative marketing initiatives for minor forest produce in tribal areas.

Speaking about India taking over the G20 Presidency, the President said that India’s experience and best practices can be very useful lessons for other developing countries. In particular, India’s rich and diverse tribal heritage can be showcased to the world – living in harmony with nature, traditional systems of medicine, and a genuine ‘sustainability’ approach are the hallmarks of this unique lifestyle.

President appreciated pioneering work of the Gates Foundation in public health and infectious disease control.

Melinda French Gates is a philanthropist, businesswoman, and global advocate for women and girls. As co-chair of the foundation, she shapes and approves the organization’s strategies and overall direction, reviews results, and works with grantees and partners to further the foundation’s goal of improving equity in the United States and around the world.

Through her work at the foundation over more than two decades, Melinda has seen firsthand that empowering women and girls can transform the health and prosperity of families, communities, and societies. Her work has led her to focus increasingly on gender equity as a lever for change. In 2015, Melinda founded Pivotal Ventures, a company working to accelerate the pace of social progress in the United States.

About Melinda French Gates 

Melinda is the author of the bestselling book The Moment of Lift, in which she introduces readers to the inspiring women she has met during her work and travels around the world and shares her own journey to becoming an advocate for women and girls.

The second of four children, Melinda grew up in Dallas, Texas. She earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and economics and an MBA, both from Duke University. She spent the first decade of her career developing multimedia products at Microsoft before leaving the company to focus on her family and philanthropic work.

She has three children—Jenn, Rory, and Phoebe—and lives in Seattle, Washington.

Via – PIB | Melinda Gates Foundation

 

The 1st Sherpa Meeting of India’s G20 Presidency started in the historic city of Udaipur, Rajasthan

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The 1st Sherpa Meeting of India’s G20 Presidency started in the historic city of Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur – The 1st Sherpa Meeting of India’s G20 Presidency, chaired by G20 Sherpa Shri Amitabh Kant, is commencing today in the historic city of Udaipur. The four-day gathering (04-07 December 2022) of the Sherpas of G20 Members, invited countries and International Organizations, will set the stage for important conversations on some of the most pressing issues of our time, including technological transformation, green development and LiFE, spotlighting women-led development, accelerating implementation of the SDGs, facilitating inclusive and resilient growth, and multilateral reforms.

The Meeting will kick start on 4 December 2022 with a panel discussion on accelerating implementation of the SDGs. Formal Sherpa discussions will be spread over five sessions and will be held on 5-6 December 2022. During these sessions, India will introduce the broad priorities of all the Working Groups and also hear the views of the G20 countries, guests and International Organizations. An informal session for free-flowing discussions among G20 Sherpas without any set agenda is also being planned.

Discussions of the 1st Sherpa Meeting were initiated by India’s G20 Sherpa, Shri Amitabh Kant, through an overview of India’s G20 priorities across our 13 Working Groups. The Sherpa highlighted India’s role in providing a greater voice to the Global South, and utilizing its G20 Chairship to forge win-win collaborations between developing countries and advanced economies. Shri Ajay Seth, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, then proceeded to outline key economic challenges facing the world today, and highlighted the need for collective efforts by the G20 to respond to them.

This was followed by Session 1 on Technological Transformation, including the working groups on Digital Economy, Health, and Education. Delegates discussed challenges in accelerating digitalization across different sectors in their countries. Further, delegates from G20 countries, guest invitees, and IOs, made interventions on leveraging the power of technology through multiple pathways. The importance of cyber security, inclusivity in expanding access to technological services and infrastructure, and digital skilling, were inter alia highlighted in the discussions.

Session 2 on ‘Green Development and Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)’ followed, with the focus moving to effective strategies to collectively combat climate change. The need to facilitate just green and energy transitions was discussed, with India’s G20 Sherpa highlighting the necessity of galvanizing collective action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The topics covered under the Development (DWG), Energy Transitions (ETWG), Climate Sustainability Working Group (CSWG), and Disaster Risk Resilience and Reduction (DRRWG) working groups were covered in this session. Countries appreciated India’s ‘LiFE’ initiative and extended support to take the agenda forward.

A dialogue on “Global & Regional Economy: Prospects & Challenges” was held next. Ms. Kristina Kostial, Deputy Director of Strategy and Policy Department, IMF, made a presentation on the pressing global economic challenges of the day, including the international debt situation and trade. The dialogue discussed ideas for the world to tackle such concerns and emerge more resilient to economic vagaries.

A discussion between G20 Sherpa over high tea in the evening – ‘Chai pe Charcha’, was held to discuss ways forward on shared concerns as well as to foster deeper relationships and enhance the contribution of G20 as a whole.

During an excursion to the historic Manek Chowk in Udaipur, G20 Sherpas were provided traditional Indian jackets, Safas/Turban and stoles to further enrich their authentic cultural experience of Rajasthan. Day 2 concluded with Ratri Bhoj par Samvaad (Conversation over Dinner) at the spectacular venue – Jagmandir, Udaipur.

Through a range of cultural activities, visits to historic sites and scenic locations and showcasing Rajasthani art and craft, the visiting G20 delegates have got a rich glimpse and deep insight into our rich history and traditions. Udaipur, a city known for its white marble architecture and beautiful lakes, and the G20 discussions here, is providing them a memorable and unique experience of India.

Via – PIB/ G20

Volker Türk appointed new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

Volker Türk appointed new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

UN News – Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday appointed Volker Türk of Austria as the next United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, following approval by the General Assembly.

The new High Commissioner is currently coordinating global policy work as an Under-Secretary-General in the UN’s Executive Office.

He also ensures UN system-wide coordination in the follow-up to the Secretary-General’s “Call to Action for Human Rights” and his report, Our Common Agenda, which sets out a vision to tackle the world’s interconnected challenges on foundations of trust, solidarity and human rights.

From 2019 to 2021, Mr. Türk served as Assistant Secretary-General for Strategic Coordination in the UN chief’s Executive Office.

Prior to that, he was the Assistant High Commissioner for Protection at UN refugees, UNHCR, in Geneva – from 2015 to 2019 – where he played a key role in the development of the landmark Global Compact on Refugees.

Over the course of his career, the newly appointed human rights chief held a number of key positions, including at UNHCR headquarters where he served from 2009 to 2015 as Director of the Division of International Protection; from 2008 to 2009 as Director of Organizational Development and Management; and from 2000 to 2004 as Chief of Section, Protection Policy and Legal Advice.

Mr. Türk also served UNHCR around the world, including as Representative in Malaysia; Assistant Chief of Mission in Kosovo and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, respectively; and Regional Protection Coordinator in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; and in Kuwait.

He holds a doctorate in international law from the University of Vienna and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Linz, Austria.

Moreover, the new UN human rights chief has published widely on international refugee law and international human rights law and is fluent in English, French and German with a working knowledge of Spanish.

Mr. Türk will succeed Michelle Bachelet of Chile, who served as High Commissioner from 1 September 2018 through 31 August 2022.

In his statement, the Secretary-General expressed gratitude for Ms. Bachelet’s “commitment and dedicated service to the United Nations”.

During her tenure, which included the COVID-19 pandemic, she focused on reinvigorating social protections, adjusting to working virtually and expanding human rights monitoring.

From deepening poverty to rising inequalities and a lack of access to healthcare, vaccine and treatment to discrimination and violence against women, her Office had to quickly provide solutions to these and other pivotal challenges.

 

Prime Minister Modi congratulates Anwar Ibrahim Malaysia’s new prime minister

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Prime Minister Modi congratulates Anwar Ibrahim Malaysia’s new prime minister

Diplomat Times (Petaling Jaya) – The India has congratulated Anwar Ibrahim on his appointment as the prime minister and described the 15th general election as “a demonstration of the power of democracy”.

Buddhist monk, Dalai Lama also wished Anwar “every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead”.

Malaysia is one of the prominent leaders of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), together with Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand. All four countries enjoy multi-faceted ties with India, both in the regional and bilateral contexts, while also having a very substantial relationship with China.

On the diplomatic side, India and Malaysia work together to uphold the freedom of navigation and over flights in the South China Sea and elsewhere and to adhere to the UN Conference on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They also display a resolute will to counter terrorism and radicalization. In fact, India admires the Malaysian model of moderate Islam and the success of its de-radicalization programme. The latter may have some relevance to the situation in India.

The people-to-people aspect of the relationship is also significant. A nation of 28 million, Malaysia is home to a nearly two million-strong Indian origin community that accounts for 7% of the total population. This is rated as the highest share of Indian diaspora in any East Asian country.

Formally, the two nations have an “enhanced Strategic Partnership”. India views its ties with Malaysia as a core element of its Act East Policy, Both nations .

Supporters of Anwar Ibrahim gather outside the National Palace on November 22, 2022. Photo: EPA-EFE

Anwar comes with heavy political baggage and his repeated failure to grasp the reins of the top office over the years had left him vulnerable to being derided as a perpetual “prime minister-in-waiting”.
But his backstory has given him a strong base, no matter the odds against him.

Asim Munir : Who is Pakistan’s 17th army chief Asim Munir?

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Asim Munir appointed Pakistan’s General on Thursday. Asim Munir as the new chief of Pakistan Army after President Dr Arif Alvi approved the summary sent by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the appointment, ending days of speculations.

Diplomat Times (Islamabad) – He is Pakistan’s 17th army chief since it declared independence from Britain in 1947. That compares with about 30 prime ministers during the same period.

He was prematurely removed as chief of the ISI at the request of then-prime minister Imran Khan. No reason was given for his removal. He was serving as the army’s quartermaster general.

He is the most senior ranking general after outgoing army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Here are a few facts about General Asim

He was chief of the country’s two most influential intelligence agencies, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI).

There are different reactions in India too on Asim Munir becoming the Pakistan Army Chief.

The army has historically wielded huge political influence in Pakistan, ruling it for half of its 75-year history, and also oversees the country’s nuclear program. Like neighboring China and India, Pakistan has nuclear arsenals and a missile system, which is mainly aimed at India.

Lt. Gen. Syed Asim Munir replaces Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa, who completes his six-year extended term on Nov. 29. Munir begins his new role amid bitter feuding between Sharif and former premier Imran Khan. Khan has publicly accused Bajwa of playing a role in his ouster, a charge the outgoing army chief has denied.

On Thursday, Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif told reporters that Munir’s nomination as the army chief was “based on merit, law and according to the constitution.” He said he hoped that Alvi would not make the key appointments “controversial” and would endorse Sharif’s decision without any delay.

“It will also help our country and the economy to get back on the right track, as right now everything is at a standstill,” he said.

Azim Chaudhry, a senior political analyst, told The Associated Press that Munir held key positions under Bajwa, including head of military intelligence. He said he hoped the new army chief would keep the military away from politics, in line with Bajwa’s policy.

Information Minister Maryam Aurangzeb also said Sharif had named Lt. Gen. Sahir Shamshad Mirza as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee to replace Gen. Nadeem Raza, who retires this week.

About Asim Munir 

Munir joined the Pakistani military through the Mangla Officers Training School (OTS) programme, where he won the prestigious Sword of Honour, given to the best performing cadet.

He has commanded a division which overlooks Pakistan’s northern areas, including the disputed region of Kashmir, where he worked in tandem with Bajwa, who then headed the Pakistan army’s elite X Corps.

“He is a rare officer in the sense that he has led both the MI and the ISI. He is the first army chief who has headed both the intelligence agencies,” the source said.

“The MI experience will help him look at the army’s internal dynamics, while the ISI experience will serve him well for a global outlook in future.”

“Based on his postings and the results of his courses, it is pretty evident that he proved himself worthy of where he is today,” he told Al Jazeera.

Munir is the son of a schoolteacher who grew up in the garrison city of Rawalpindi, according to local source.

Asim Munir is from the 17th course of the Officers Training School in Mangla. He was commissioned in the 23rd Battalion of the Frontier Force Regiment. He started his military career in 1986.

India seeks to use global energy challenge as opportunity, says Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

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India seeks to use global energy challenge as opportunity, says India oil minister

Diplomat Times (New Delhi)Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday that India, the world’s third largest oil importer, hopes to convert the current global oil challenges from the Ukraine crisis into an opportunity to access cheap energy. Russian oil price range.

India, which rarely used to buy Russian oil because of costly logistics, has emerged as Russia’s second biggest oil client after China as some Western entities shunned Moscow purchases following its February invasion of Ukraine.

“At this time, the worry is not about from where we will get energy,” Puri said at a broadcaster Times Now summit. “It is a global challenge but we have and we will convert this into an opportunity. And I don’t foresee any difficulty in procuring energy and securing at affordable prices.”

The United States has stopped buying Russian energy and European countries will stop Russian crude and refined product imports from December 5 and February 5, respectively.

The Group of Seven nations, including the United States, as well as the European Union and Australia, are planning to implement a likely price cap of $65 to $70 a barrel on sea-borne Russian oil exports from Dec. 5.

EU fails to agree gas price cap amid deep differences

Some Indian refiners are already getting Russian oil at below or near the prices cap levels.

The West has exempted Russian oil supplies via pipelines to Hungary and China, and exports from Sakhalin-2 projects to Japan. “So the question arises that on whom this price cap will be imposed, if these three large exemptions are there,” Puri said, indicating that the mechanism is aimed at supplies to India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin discusses West’s oil price cap with Iraqi leader – Kremlin

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Russian President Vladimir Putin discusses West’s oil price cap with Iraqi leader – Kremlin

Middle East (Reuters)- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday discussed Western attempts to cap the price of Russian oil during a phone call with Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the new Iraqi prime minister, the Kremlin said in a readout of the call.

It said Putin had told Sudani that a price cap would have serious consequences for the global energy market.

“Attempts by a number of Western countries to impose restrictions on the cost of crude oil from Russia were touched upon,” the Kremlin’s statement said.

“Vladimir Putin stressed that such actions contradict the principles of market relations and are highly likely to lead to serious consequences for the global energy market.”

The European Union and United States have stepped up attempts in recent days to strike an agreement on where to set a price cap on their imports of Russian oil.

Russia and Iraq are both major oil producers and members of the OPEC+ agreement, which sets oil production levels in a bid to manage world prices.