Lok Sabha Question No. 105 (UNSTARRED), answered on 2016-11-16
Subject: Visit by Dignitaries
Ministry: EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
Asked by: SUDHEER GUPTA, BIDYUT BARAN MAHATO, GAJANAN CHANDRAKANT KIRTIKAR, SUNIL BALIRAM GAIKWAD, SUPRIYA SADANAND SULE, KURUPPASSERY VARKEY THOMAS, VIJAY KUMAR S.R., ASHOK SHANKARRAO CHAVAN, T. RADHAKRISHNAN, KUNWAR HARIBANSH SINGH, ANOOP MISHRA

## GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

## MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

## LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.105 TO BE ANSWERED ON 16.11.2016

## VISIT BY DIGNITARIES

105.

SHRI SUDHEER GUPTA:

SHRI BIDYUD BARAN MAHATO:

SHRI GAJANAN KIRTIKAR:

DR. SUNIL BALIRAM GAIKWAD:

SHRIMATI SUPRIYA SULE:

PROF. K.V. THOMAS:

SHRI S.R. VIJAYAKUMAR:

SHRI ASHOK SHANKARRAO CHAVAN:

SHRI T. RADHAKRISHNAN:

KUNWAR HARIBANSH SINGH:

SHRI ANOOP MISHRA:

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

- (a) the details of foreign dignitaries who visited India during each of the last four month and the current month, countrywise;
- (b) the details of foreign trips undertaken by the Prime Minister of India and other dignitaries during the said period;
- (c) the  areas  identified  for  co-operation,  discussion  held  during the said visits; and
- (d) the agreements signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof?

## ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS [GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a), (c) and (d) Information  has  been  compiled  and  placed  at Annexure-I.

(b), (c) and (d) Information  has  been  compiled  and  placed  at Annexure-II.

****

## Details of Foreign Dignitaries who visited India

| S. No   | Country from where the Foreign Dignitary visited India during the last four months (July - October 2016) and the current month, with dates   | The details (Designation and date) of foreign dignitaries who visited India during the aforesaid period   | The areas identified for cooperation, discussions held during the said visits                                                                                                                                                       | The Agreements/MOUs signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof                                                                                                       |
|---------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|         |                                                                                                                                              | (a)                                                                                                       | (c)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 | (d)                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| 1       | Hungary                                                                                                                                      | Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade (04-06 July 2016)                                                   | Areas of trade & investment, science & technology, defence, culture and tourism were identified for cooperation. Discussions were held on issues such as United Nations reforms, the global menace of terrorism and climate change. | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit. Agreement between two sides was reached on crucial global issues such as multilateral export control regimes, UN reform, terrorism etc. |
| 2       | Congo                                                                                                                                        | Minister of Foreign Affairs (August 10-12, 2016)                                                          | The entire gamut of bilateral relations were discussed. LOC projects were reviewed                                                                                                                                                  | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                          |
| 3       | China                                                                                                                                        | Foreign Minister (August 12-14, 2016)                                                                     | FM Wang Yi met EAM and also called on Prime Minister during his visit. Discussions were held on issues of mutual interest. The two Sides also reviewed the progress of bilateral relations.                                         | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                          |
| 4       | Maldives                                                                                                                                     | Foreign Minister (August 15-16, 2016)                                                                     | First official visit abroad by new Foreign Minister. Met with EAM and Vice President and discussed issues of mutual interest, deepening of overall bilateral cooperation.                                                           | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                          |

## Visits by Foreign Dignitaries

|   5 | Turkey    | Foreign Minister (August 18-19, 2016)      | The discussions enabled review of the broad gamut of bilateral relations and exchange of views on regional and international issues of common interest at the political plane. A Roadmap between Ministry of External Affairs of India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey was agreed to. The Roadmap is indicative of potential steps to be taken for further deepening of the bilateral India-Turkey relationship, and to this end, it identifies areas/sectors of mutual interest for bilateral cooperation.   | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            |
|-----|-----------|--------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|   6 | Venezuela | Foreign Minister (August 17-19, 2016)      | The primary purpose of the visit was to hand over invitation for the NAM Summit. The whole gamut of bilateral and multilateral issues were discussed during Foreign Minister's meeting with EAM. The two sides agreed to early holding of next Joint Commission meeting. They agreed to continue to work together in UN and other international forums. Bilateral issues relating to energy, including payment of pending dividend to OVL relating to joint venture with PDVSA, were discussed.                             | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            |
|   7 | Singapore | Deputy Prime Minister (August 24-28, 2016) | To attend and deliver keynote address in NITI Aayog Lecture Series on ''Transforming India''.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            |
|   8 | Myanmar   | President (August 27- 30, 2016)            | Two sides agreed to further strengthen bilateral security and defence cooperation, reviewed ongoing development cooperation, promote trade and expand cooperation especially in agriculture, banking, power and energy sector and further the cultural and agricultural exchanges between the two                                                                                                                                                                                                                           | Two MoUs were signed on practical cooperation on the bridges and road segment of the Trilateral Highway Project, that are being upgraded with India's assistance. MoU on Renewable energy was signed to establish a framework for future engagement including exchange of scientific and technical personnel, information and data etc. |

|    |             |                                                          | countries, etc.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              | MoU on cooperation in the field of Traditional systems of medicine promotes traditional medicine research, exchange of experts, supply of medicines and documents, etc.                                                                                                                                        |
|----|-------------|----------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|  9 | USA         | Secretary of State (August 29-31, 2016)                  | The second India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue took place in New Delhi on 30 August 2016. Both sides reviewed the progress made in the implementation of decisions taken during Prime Minister's visit to the US in June 2016 and identified further steps to strengthen cooperation across the entire spectrum of the relationship including defence, security, regional and global issues, climate, energy, commerce, science and technology, health and education. | Framework for the India US Cyber Relationship. Cooperation on cyber issues is a key componentof the bilateral relationship between India and the United States. The two countries have a strategic cyber relationship that reflects their shared values, common vision, and shared principle's for cyberspace. |
| 10 | Egypt       | President (September 01-03, 2016)                        | Discussions were held to boost mutual cooperation on security, defence, counter terrorism, science & technology, ICT, space. It has been agreed to encourage companies and corporations from their respective countries to explore emerging economic and investment opportunities in each other's countries. Cultural exchanges and people-to- people contacts were on the agenda during the discussions.                                                                    | Agreement on Maritime Transport                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |
| 11 | Nepal       | DeputyPM and Home Minister of Nepal (August 18-23, 2016) | Visited as newly elected Nepalese PM's special envoy to India                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| 12 | Nepal       | Foreign Minister (September 11-13, 2016)                 | Preparatory Visit for the then forthcoming PM Visit from September 15-18, 2016                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| 13 | Afghanistan | President (September 14-15, 2016)                        | The President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan His Excellency Dr. Mohammad Ashraf Ghani undertook a working visit to India on 14 & 15 September 2016 during                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            | A joint statement was issued and three bilateral cooperation documents were signed: (i) Extradition Treaty, (ii) Agreement on cooperation in civil and                                                                                                                                                         |

| commercial matters and (iii) MoU on Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Outer Space.   |
|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

|    |           |                                        | inauguration of the Amritsar Ministerial Conference of the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process (HoA) on the forthcoming 4 December. President Ghani accepted the invitation. It was also agreed that the Strategic Partnership Council headed by EAM and Afghan Foreign Minister would meet shortly.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |
|----|-----------|----------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 14 | Nepal     | Prime Minister (September 15-18, 2016) | -                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               | 1) MoU between NHIDCL and GoN for upgradation/improvement of road infrastructure in Nepal 2) Dollar Line Credit Agreement between EXIM Bank and GoN (US $750 Million) 3) First Amendatory Dollar Credit Line Agreement between EXIM Bank and GoN                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      |
| 15 | Singapore | Prime Minister (October 03-07, 2016)   | Wide ranging discussions were held on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues including cooperation in the area of smart cities and urban solutions, skills development through knowledge sharing and capacity building, defence and security cooperation, economic cooperation, expansion of air connectivity, Parliamentary exchanges, space cooperation, multilateral issues and cooperation on terrorism. PM Lee reaffirmed Singapore's continued support for India's candidature for the Permanent Membership of UNSC. | (US $550 Million) MOU on: a) Industrial Property Cooperation; (aims to establish a wide ranging and flexible mechanism for developing & furthering the coop activities between the parties in the property field and information technology services) ; b) MOU on Collaboration in the field of Technical &Vocational Education &Training; c) MOU for Collaboration in the field of Technical & Vocational Education & Training between Govt of Assam and ITE Education Services, Singapore, for the purpose of establishing a North East Skills Centre in Guwahati; d) 2 MOUs with Govt of Rajasthan on (i) Tourism; & (ii) Capacity Building in the field of Tourism &Connectivity. |

|   16 | Sri Lanka   | Prime Minister (October 04-06, 2016)   | To attend the India Economic Summit 2016 in New Delhi.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 | No Agreements/MoUs signed                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     |
|------|-------------|----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|   17 | Russia      | President (October 13- 14, 2016)       | The leaders held an extensive and useful conversation on the entire spectrum of our engagement- bilateral, regional and international issues, including terrorism. We deeply appreciated Russia's understanding and support of our actions to fight cross- border terrorism that threatens our entire region. The leaders affirmed the need for zero tolerance in dealing with terrorists and their supporters. They noted the similarity of views on the situation in Afghanistan and turmoil in West Asia, and also agreed to work closely to respond to the challenges posed by the unsettled nature of the global economic and financial markets. It was noted that our close collaboration at the United Nations, BRICS, East Asia Summit, G-20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) makes our partnership truly global, both in its scope and coverage. The leaders also laid the foundations for deeper defence and economic ties in years ahead. The agreements on manufacturing of Kamov 226T helicopters; constructions of frigates; and acquisition and building of other defence platforms are in synergy with India's technology and security priorities. They also help us achieve the objectives of Make in India. The sides also agreed to work on an annual military industrial conference that will allow stakeholders on both sides to institute and push collaboration. These projects are | During the visit, 19 documents were concluded, including the adoption of Joint Statement and 'Roadmap of Events' to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. 1. Memorandum of Understanding proposed to be executed between Economic Development Board (AP), Joint Stock Company Аlexeev's Central Hydrofoil Design Bureau, Joint Stock Company Radar Mms, Joint Stock Company Morinsis- AGAT and Elcom Systems Private Limited. 2. Memorandum of Understanding between the JSC "United Shipbuilding Corporation" and the Council on the Economic Development of the state of Andhra Pradesh. 3. Memorandum of Understanding between JSC "Rusinformeksport" and state- owned National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) Ltd. 4. Memorandum of Understanding between Gazprom and Engineers India Limited on the joint study of a gas pipeline to India and the other possible areas of cooperation. 5. Agreement on the acquisition by a consortium of international investors on refineries, infrastructure and distribution assets of Essar Oil Limited with the assistance of a financial advisor. 6. Agreement between Rosneft and ONGC Videsh |

| new chapters in a long history of strong and diverse defence partnership. The leaders participated in the ceremony to dedicate Kudankulam 2 and laying of foundation concrete of Kundankulum 3 and 4, which are the tangible results of India-Russia cooperation in the field of Civil Nuclear Energy. Our wide ranging cooperation in nuclear energy is set to bring rich dividends to us and it also fits in with our needs of energy security, access to high technology and greater localization and manufacturing in India. We expressed are readiness and willingness to expand the scope of our engagement further in the hydrocarbon sector, including undertaking a joint study of a gas pipeline route between India and Russia. We are working towards the construction of an 'Energy Bridge' between our two countries, which entails a combination of robust civil nuclear cooperation, LNG sourcing, partnership in the Oil and Gas sector, and engagement in renewables energy. The leaders also agreed to set up a Science and Technology Commission to ensure that our societies will reap the benefits of joint development, transfer and sharing of cutting edge technologies in different fields. To deepen trade and investment ties, it was identified to fast track India's association with Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement and early setting up of the Investment Fund of US Dollars 1 billion   | Limited (OVL) for cooperation in education and training. 7. Agreement between the Russian Direct Investment Fund and the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund of India on the establishment of Russian-Indian investment fund. 8. Protocol between Open Joint Stock Company "Russian Railways" and the Ministry of Railways of the Republic of India on cooperation in the program of "high-speed rail." 9. Shareholders Agreement on the formation of joint venture for the production of Ka-226T Helicopters. 10. Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the State Corporation for Space Activities "Roscosmos' on mutual allocation of ground measurement gathering stations for and Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) and Russian Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). 11. Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation to expand bilateral trade and economic cooperation. 12. Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Science and Technology (DST) of   |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| between National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and Russia Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) to advance our infrastructure partnership. It was noted that the Green Corridor and the International North South Transport Corridor will serve to strengthen trade facilitation, logistical links and ensure better connectivity between our countries. We also want our economic linkages to connect the regions and states in both countries. The leaders also agreed to celebrate the seventieth (70th) anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic ties next year.   |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

|    |           |                                      |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         | 19. "Partnership for Global Peace and Stability'- Joint Statement on the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Republic of India. We have 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' with Russia. This was the seventeen Annual Summit since 2000. Our close friendship has given clear direction, fresh impulse, stronger momentum and rich content to our ties. In the emerging regional and global landscape, it has been a source of strength and substance, a driver of peace and a factor of stability. The agreements signed seek to further deepen our cooperation in the filed on defence, energy, foreign policy, railways, smart cities, science and technology and trade and investment.   |
|----|-----------|--------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 18 | Sri Lanka | President (October 15- 17, 2016)     | To attend the BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit Meeting in Goa                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              | No Agreements/MoUs signed                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             |
| 19 | Bhutan    | Prime Minister (October 14-17, 2016) | To attend BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 | No Agreements/MoUs signed                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             |
| 20 | Brazil    | President (October 17, 2016)         | Wide-ranging discussions were held on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. It was agreed to maintain close cooperation and coordination on global issues. The need for urgent reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, including an expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent membership was underscored. They met business leaders of both countries and urged the private sector to make effort to expand bilateral trade and investment and strengthen business partnerships. The text of Cooperation Agreement and Investment Treaty was | Following three MoUs were signed during India- Brazil bilateral meeting. 1. MoU on cooperation in the field of pharmaceutical products regulation between Central Drugs Standard control Organization (CDSCO) and Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) Advantage - This will forge better understanding about each others' regulatory requirements and further build confidence in the regulatory authorities/mechanism of each other.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |

| finalized and initialed during the meeting. A Joint Declaration was issued during the meeting. The following areas of cooperation were discussed during the meeting: Trade, removal of non-tariff barriers, low cost defence manufacturing, skill innovation, cyber security, joint defence production, sharing of expertise in ship building, maritime security, investment promotion and finalization of treaty in this regard, Make in India initiative, enhanced cooperation in the areas of IT, Pharma, bio-energy, automobile, aviation, mining, agriculture, food processing, cattle breeding and milk production, ethanol production, nano-satellite development programme, space cooperation. (i)   |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

|    |               |                                        |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          | b) The expertise of Brazil in field of genomics and embryo transfer techniques will be very useful for improving implementation of comprehensive genetic upgradation programme initiated under National Dairy Plan (NDP) -I. c) Exchange of technical knowhow on genomics, ETT and PTP will be useful for developing these programmes in our country.                                                                                                                                |
|----|---------------|----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 21 | Myanmar       | State Counsellor (October 17-19, 2016) | The two sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations as well as all acts, methods and practices of terrorism wherever, by whomever, against whomsoever committed and agreed that the fight against terrorism should target terrorists, hold to account terror organisations, networks and also states that encourage, support or finance terrorism in any way. Both sides held discussions on security issues, removing impediments to trade and commerce, development cooperation, enhancing cooperation in the field of agriculture, power, energy, and capacity building in Myanmar. | MoU on Power Cooperation was signed to establish a framework on future engagement, including in the areas of power generation, transmission, trading etc. On finance side, MoUs between Financial Regulatory Department of Myanmar and Insurance Institute of India and between Reserve Bank of India and Central Bank of Myanmar establish arrangements for sharing of academic and professional knowledge in insurance as well as banking supervisory information and cooperation. |
| 22 | Cote d'Ivoire | Foreign Minister (October 20-21, 2016) | Agriculture, trade and investment information and communication, education, women and child development                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  | Agreement on Visa Exemption for holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports. It will facilitate travel of diplomats and officials of both the countries                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             |
| 23 | New Zealand   | Prime Minister (October 24-27, 2016)   | Wide ranging discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues were held for increasing cooperation on counter-terrorism, cyber security, nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, India's bid for NSG membership, maritime security, economic cooperation, customs cooperation, cultural cooperation, tourism and defence and                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                | 1. Arrangement between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India and the Ministry for Primary Industries of New Zealand. 2. MoU between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports of India and Sport New Zealand of New Zealand. 3. Third Protocol to the Convention between India and New Zealand for the Avoidance of Double                                                                                                                                                 |

|    |                |                                                           | education exchanges.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            | Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on income.                                                                                   |
|----|----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 24 | Nepal          | Foreign Minister of Nepal (October 26-28, 2016)           | Chaired the 4 th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) between India and Nepal                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                     |
| 25 | Nepal          | Deputy PM and Home Minister of Nepal (November 1-3, 2016) | Participated in the Asia Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) in New Delhi                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                     |
| 26 | China          | State Counsellor (November 03-05)                         | National Security Advisor Shri Ajit Doval met with State Councillor of China Mr. Yang Jiechi on November 4, 2016. This was the third visit of State Councillor Yang to India in the last two months. The discussions covered a wide agenda spanning bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both Sides agreed to maintain the pace of high level exchanges including in the political, economic, defence and counter-terrorism fields. | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                     |
| 27 | United Kingdom | Prime Minister (November 06-08, 2016)                     | Discussions held during the visit reviewed the entire gamut of India-UK cooperation. The two Prime Ministers agreed to strengthen India-UK Strategic Partnership especially in the areas of counter terrorism, cyber security, defence manufacturing, financial and investment partnership, technology collaboration and migration.                                                                                                                             | To take forward bilateral economic engagement, two MoUs were signed during the visit for cooperation in Ease of Doing Business and Intellectual Property Rights. |
| 28 | Sri Lanka      | President Maithripala Sirisena (November 6- 7, 2016)      | To attend the 7 th Conference of Parties (COP7) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                     |

*****

## II (a) President's Visits

|   S. No. | Countries Visited during the last four months (July -October 2016) and the current month (November 2016), with dates (b)   | The areas identified for cooperation, discussions held during the said visits (c)   | The Agreements/MOUs signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof (d)   |
|----------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|        1 | Nepal (02-04 November 2016)                                                                                                | All matters of bilateral cooperation                                                | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                          |

## II (b) Vice President's Visits

|   S. No. | Countries Visited during the last four months (July-October 2016) and the current month (November 2016) with dates (b)   | The areas identified for cooperation, discussions held during the said visits (c)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         | The Agreements/MOUs signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof (d)       |
|----------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|        1 | Mongolia (July 14-16, 2016                                                                                               | To attend 11th ASEM Summit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                              |
|        2 | Venezuela (September 17- 18, 2016)                                                                                       | To attend 17 th NAM Summit. During Vice President's meeting with the Venezuelan President Maduro, discussions were held on issues relating to trade, pharma, oil and energy, mining, terrorism, UN and cooperation at other international forum. Vice President also met Cuban President Raul Castro on the sidelines and they discussed NAM, terrorism and UNSC reforms. | It was a multilateral event and a final Declaration was adopted at the end of the Summit. |

## Foreign Visits by Indian Dignitaries

|   3 | Nigeria (September 26-29, 2016)   | Recognized that further cooperation in defence and counter-terrorism training is mutually beneficial. Need to further deepen and expand bilateral cooperation particularly in the areas of energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing and health. Desire to strengthen and further develop cooperation in the field of renewable energy in particular solar energy and also space technology sector. Agreed to strengthen the existing cooperation in oil and gas sector.   | The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bureau of Indian Standards and Standards Organisation of Nigeria was signed. The objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding on Standards is to facilitate closer cooperation and provide a mechanism by which Parties can work together towards the common aim of strengthening standardization and certification activities and facilitate sharing of expertise and mutual trade.                                                |
|-----|-----------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|   4 | Mali (September 29-30, 2016)      | The talks covered the entire gamut of bilateral relationship and new areas of cooperation were identified. The new areas identified included agro, meat and cotton processing, healthcare, ICT, renewable energy particularly under International Solar Alliance and mining.                                                                                                                                                                                                        | Memorandum of Understanding on Standards and a Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) were signed. The objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding on Standards is to facilitate closer cooperation and provide a mechanism by which Parties can work together towards the common aim of strengthening standardization and certification activities and facilitate sharing of expertise and mutual trade. CEP will felicitate the cultural exchanges and promote people to people contact |
|   5 | Hungary (October 15-17, 2016)     | Technological cooperation including the possibility of using Hungarian technologies for clean water and waste water management, cooperation in the defence sector, shooting of films, issues of global concern including terrorism, UNSC reforms, India's membership of MTCR and NSG were discussed.                                                                                                                                                                                | An MOU for cooperation in the field of Water Management, and an MOU between the Indian Council of World Affairs and the Institute of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary were signed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
|   6 | Algeria (October 17-19, 2016)     | Fertilizers, peaceful uses of Atomic Energy, Hydrocarbons, Space, Pharmaceuticals, Defence. 1.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      | 1. Agreements/MOUs signed - Nil 2. Advantages to country- More cooperation in Fertilizers sector through leasing of rock phosphate mines, setting up of a gas based JV for production of phosphoric acid, urea, DAP which are vital for food security of the country. Algeria is expected to engage more actively in our energy security and food security.                                                                                                                            |

## II (c) Prime Minister's Visits

|   S. No. | Countries Visited during the last four months (July -October 2016) and the current month (November 2016) with dates (b)   | The areas identified for cooperation, discussions held during the said visits (c)                    | The Agreements/MOUs signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof (d)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
|----------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|        1 | Mozambique (July 07, 2016)                                                                                                | Agriculture, Hydrocarbons, Oil & gas, Pharmaceuticals, Maritime and Defence Cooperation              | The following MOUs were signed: i) MOUon Cooperation in the field of Production and Marketing of Pigeon Peas Advantage: Would augment supply of Pigeon Peas for Indian consumers. ii) MOUon Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs Advantage: Would strengthen fight against Narcotics Drugs iii) MOUon Cooperation in the fields of Youth Affairs and Sports Advantage: Strengthen youth exchanges and people to people time between Indian and Mozambique. |
|        2 | South Africa (July 07-09, 2016)                                                                                           | Areas identified for cooperation are highlighted in the joint statement issued during the PM's visit | (i) MoU between the government of the Republic of India and the government of the Republic of South Africa for the Establishment of Cooperation in Grassroots Innovation (ii) MoU between the government of the Republic of India and the government of the Republic of South Africa on Cooperation in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)                                                                                                                                             |

|    |                             |                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    | i) MoU between the government of the Republic of India and the government of the Republic of South Africa on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism ii) Programme of Cooperation in the Fields of Arts and Culture between the government of the Republic of India and the government of the Republic of South Africa for the period 2016-2019                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          |
|----|-----------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|  3 | Tanzania (July 09-10, 2016) | Our PM and President of Tanzania discussed priority areas of bilateral cooperation - economic, security, development partnership, international matters and people-level linkages between the two countries. Specifically, food security especially pulses, energy (natural gas) and water sector projects were deliberated upon during the visit. | The two countries signed Agreements and MOU on cooperation in the field of water, small scale industries, credit line on water, vocational training institute and visa facilities for diplomatic and official visitors between the two sides.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        |
|  4 | Kenya (July 10-11, 2016)    | Both leaders reviewed all aspects of the relations from agriculture and health to developmental assistance; from trade and commerce to investment; from closer contacts between peoples to capacity building. They also explored new areas for intensifying cooperation on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues.                            | i. MoU on Defence Cooperation. ii. MoU on Cooperation in the field of National Housing Policy Development and Management iii. Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income iv. MoU between Bureau of Indian Standards and Kenya Bureau of Standards v. Agreement on Exemption of Visa for holders of Diplomatic Passports vi. Line of Credit Agreement for US$ 15 million to IDB Capital Limited, for development of small and medium enterprises [SMEs] vii. Line of Credit Agreement for US$ 29.95 million to the Government of Kenya for upgrade of Rift Valley Textiles Factory [RIVATEX) |

|   5 | Vietnam (September 02-03, 2016)   | Held bilateral discussions on a full range of bilateral and multilateral cooperation including economic cooperation, defence and security cooperation (India extended a US $ 500 mn LOC to Vietnam for facilitating defence cooperation), establishment of a software Park in Nha Trang, space cooperation, infrastructure, cultural cooperation including conservation and restoration of Cham monuments etc.   | (i) Framework Agreement on Cooperation in the Exploration and Uses of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes; (ii) Protocol for Amending the Agreement on Avoiding Double Taxation; (iii) Program of Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Matters; (iv) Protocol between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam and the Ministry of External Affairs of India on Celebrating 2017 as the "Year of Friendship'; (v) MOU on Health Cooperation; (vi) MOU on Cooperation in Information Technology; (vii) MOU on Cooperation between the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences and the Indian Council of World Affairs; (viii) MOU on cooperation in Cyber Security; (ix) MOU between the Bureau of Indian Standards and Directorate for Standard, Metrology and Quality for Cooperation in the Fields of Standardization and Conformity Assessment; (x) MOU on Establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Software Development and Training; (xi) Technical Agreement on Sharing of White Shipping Information; (xii) Contract for Offshore High-speed Patrol Boats.   |
|-----|-----------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|   6 | China (September 03-05, 2016)     | To attend G-20 Summit in Hangzhou.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
|   7 | Lao PDR (September 07- 08, 2016)  | To attend 11 th East Asia Summit and 14 th ASEAN-India Summit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    | No Agreement/MOU was signed during the visit                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |

## II (d) External Affairs Minister's Visits

|   S. No. | Countries Visited during the last four months (July -October 2016) and the current month (November 2016) with dates (b)   | The areas identified for cooperation, discussions held during the said visits (c)                                                                                                                               | The Agreements/MOUs signed and the advantage to the country as a result thereof (d)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              |
|----------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
|        1 | Italy (September 02-06, 2016)                                                                                             | An official Indian delegation led by EAM visited Vatican (Holy See) to attend the canonization ceremony of Mother Teresa. EAM also called on HH the Pope and discussed the entire gamut of bilateral relations. | The canonization ceremony of Mother Teresa is very important to India as India has one of the largest catholic populations in the world and many Indian fathers and sisters have risen to the higher echelons of the catholic hierarchy world over. Additionally, the Holy See has observer status at UN and membership of several international organisations like ITU, WIPO etc, where India is also a member. |
|        2 | USA (September 23-28, 2016)                                                                                               | To attend at the High-level segment of the 71 st Session of the UN General Assembly.                                                                                                                            | India statement was delivered by External Affairs Minister at the General Debate of the 71 st Session of the UN General Assembly on 26 September 2016.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           |

*****