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MEA spokesperson Jaiswal spoke on Choksi’s extradition, resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and PM Narendra Modi’s upcoming meeting with US Vice President JD Vance.
The ministry addressed a wide array of questions spanning diplomatic ties, regional tensions, consular matters, and key international developments. (IMAGE: X)
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday addressed a range of critical developments during its weekly press conference. The ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal briefed the media on a range of issues, from the extradition efforts of fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi to updates on India-China air connectivity, US trade negotiations and recent comments made by Pakistan army chief.
Jaiswal responded to a wide set of questions touching upon diplomatic, security and consular issues.
The spokesperson said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance will hold a meeting soon as the US Vice President is set to visit India.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet US Vice President JD Vance soon. Both leaders will hold discussions on all issues in the bilateral relationship,” the MEA said.
Speaking on US President Donald Trump tariff rollouts, the spokesperson said that discussions are being held to finalise a bilateral agreement. “We are talking to the US side so that a bilateral trade agreement can be done,” Jaiswal said.
As India prepares to host the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) Leader’s Summit this year, the MEA said that the future of the multilateral forum is bright.
Jaiswal also answered queries raised by the reporters on the violence that has shaken West Bengal’s Murshidabad, leading to three deaths, many injured and deployment of central forces.
Responding to the queries about alleged Bangladeshi involvement in the recent Murshidabad violence, the MEA clarified that the status of foreign nationals, legal or illegal, resides under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
India-China Direct Flight Resumption Under Discussion
A technical-level dialogue is underway regarding the possible resumption of direct flights between India and China, Jaiswal informed.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Resume Soon
The annual Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is likely to resume shortly, with additional information expected to be made public soon, the MEA spokesperson said.
On Mehul Choksi’s Extradition
The MEA reiterated that India remains in close coordination with Belgian authorities to secure the extradition of Mehul Choksi. “Based on our extradition request, he was arrested. We are working closely with the Belgian side to bring him back so he can face trial,” said MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
