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Mada
16-06-2025
- Politics
- Mada
Global March to Gaza tells delegations to leave Egypt, demands release of arrested participants
Coordinators of the Global March to Gaza instructed all participants on Monday to leave Egypt, putting an end to the initiative that sought to protest the ongoing genocide, blockade and continued occupation of Palestinian land at the Rafah border crossing. They also called on Egyptian authorities to release members of the march's foreign delegations arrested in Cairo over the past weekend, and who included two of the lead march organizers. The statement sent today to the participating foreign delegations, a copy of which Mada Masr obtained, says the instruction to leave came after the coordinators asked for support from the relevant embassies and received mixed responses. Egyptian authorities have met the arriving delegations over the past week with arrests, deportations and assault. In the statement, the coordinators explained that the decision came after they met yesterday with embassies of the participating delegations and received mixed responses, as some of them were supportive and willing to defend the marchers, while others were not. The statement stressed that the coordinators were committed to operating within the law, and organizing the march without permission was not an option for them. The Egyptian government did not provide them with a clear answer during the direct communications with the march coordinators, and participants continue to face arrest and deportation, the statement said. While participants in the march floated alternatives to the march, such as organizing a demonstration in support of Gaza outside the German Bundestag or the International Court of Justice in The Hague, according to internal correspondence reviewed by Mada Masr, the coordinators preferred to focus on getting all march participants out of Egypt first, to ensure their safety. In an earlier statement from today, obtained by Mada Masr, the coordination team called on the Egyptian authorities to release all participants arrested in recent days, after two of the lead coordinators were arrested over the weekend, in preparation for their deportation from Egypt. According to the statement, Egyptian authorities arrested two members of the march's international coordination committee, French national Hicham El Ghaoui and Spanish national Manuel Tapial, over the weekend. Tapial was deported in the early hours of Monday morning, while Ghaoui is still being processed for deportation, the statement said. The statement also confirmed that the organizers have been in contact with the relevant embassies, urging them to intervene on behalf of the participants who were arrested or deported despite their compliance with Egyptian law and their legal and peaceful entry into the country. Security forces arrested dozens of participants in the Global March to Gaza, mostly French and Swiss nationals, on Saturday and Sunday, a source working with a human rights organization previously told Mada Masr. Throughout Sunday, participating delegations circulated warnings from organizers urging activists not to gather in Cairo or engage in any form of protest. 'Even as we monitor these developments, our foremost concern remains with the people of Gaza, who continue to face unimaginable suffering. More actions and initiatives are already underway,' lead march coordinator Saif Abukeshek said in the statement. Although dozens of participants were arrested and deported at the airport before entering Cairo, those who got into Egypt tried to push through with the march, heading to gather in Ismailia on Friday before marching to Rafah. However, those who made it to Ismailia were assaulted by security forces and civilians, forcing them to return to Cairo to avoid the 'escalating violence.'
India Gazette
06-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
We understand the necessity of why India took action: Jurgen Hardt
Berlin [Germany], June 6 (ANI): In a key diplomatic engagement, an Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad held wide-ranging discussions in Berlin with members of the German Bundestag and representatives from leading think tanks, deepening strategic cooperation and mutual understanding. One of the standout voices during the dialogue was Jurgen Hardt, Member of the German Parliament and Spokesperson for Foreign Policy of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, who strongly addressed regional threats emanating from Pakistan and the need for peaceful conflict resolution. 'We see the terror threat coming from Pakistan and we have asked the Pakistani government to eliminate terror groups in their country. We hope for a peaceful solution. We encourage the Indian government to do it diplomatically. Hopefully, the conflict between India and Pakistan can be calmed,' Hardt stated. Referring to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, he added, 'It was a terrible attack on several people. I hope India finds a way to install a mechanism to resolve such conflicts peacefully, but we understand the necessity of why India took action.' The meeting with German lawmakers, including Armin Laschet, Ralph Brinkhaus, Hubertus Heil, and Omid Nouripour, reaffirmed the growing convergence between India and Germany on regional security and counterterrorism. Armin Laschet, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Bundestag, expressed solidarity with India and called for the preservation of peace and dialogue. 'We also discussed the brutal 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam. I'm deeply shocked. Germany stands with India in the fight against terrorism. Now it's vital the ceasefire holds and dialogue continues. Peace serves us all,' Laschet said in a statement. The Indian Embassy in Germany confirmed the series of engagements, noting that the delegation 'conveyed India's unwavering united stand for Zero Tolerance for Terrorism and outlined its resolve to not give in to nuclear blackmail.' The embassy also noted that leaders on both sides 'recognised momentum in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership and joint role in ensuring global Peace and Security.' Vice President of the German Bundestag, Omid Nouripour, also hosted the delegation and highlighted the need for stronger cooperation amidst current global challenges. He acknowledged India's rising role in ensuring security and appreciated the delegation's outreach. Reflecting on the significance of the meetings, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad remarked, 'A very good meeting with Vice Chairman of this majestic Parliament. We exchanged views on terrorism, he was very forthright. Terrorism is a global curse and also appreciated India's efforts to give security to its people and globally, we need to work together in the field of terrorism and also good economic cooperation between these two great countries. Germany is a big economic powerhouse in the world. India is a big economic powerhouse in the world.' With high-level participation across parties and institutions, the visit reinforced the shared values and mutual trust that underpin the India-Germany relationship. From counterterrorism and nuclear restraint to economic engagement and geopolitical dialogue, both sides signalled a clear commitment to a rules-based global order and a collaborative future. (ANI)
India Gazette
06-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
"India is most affected by terror attacks...we have to stand together": German parliamentarian to all-party delegation led by Ravi Shankar Prasad
Berlin [Germany], June 6 (ANI): An all-party delegation led by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad met with German parliamentarians, including Omid Nouripour, Vice President of the German Bundestag, Ralph Brinkhaus, Member of the German Bundestag and Armin Laschet, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in Berlin on Friday. The discussions focused on deepening cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the areas of counterterrorism and economic partnership. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and democratic values. Both sides emphasised the need for global cooperation to combat terrorism, with Nouripour highlighting India's experience with terror attacks and the importance of standing together against extremism. 'India is most affected by terror attacks, and extremism is undermining the security of the people and the trust in democracy & institutions. So, we have to stand together. These days, we have to stand on the side of the people of India and help without any escalation, so that the country is kept safe, like our colleagues are working hard for,' said Nouripour. He said that the meeting was fruitful and grateful and expressed his happiness over the exchange and potential for deeper cooperation, highlighting the importance of defending democracy and freedom. 'The meeting was very fruitful and very grateful. I am honoured to receive so many fellow members of the Parliament from the great place of India. As a friend of this country, I am happy that we could exchange. There is even more potential for deeper cooperation, but especially these days, India has been attacked, Russia and Ukraine have attacked the European order. It is time to team up and cooperate. If we can assist, it's needful because together we can defend our democracy, our freedom,' he added. According to the Indian Embassy in Germany, the delegation met Laschet, Brinkhaus, and Hubertus Heil, Member of the Bundestag and former Minister of Labour and Social Security. During the exchange, Indian representatives conveyed the nation's 'unwavering united stand for Zero Tolerance for Terrorism' and clearly outlined their resolve 'to not give in to nuclear blackmail.' The discussions also touched on the growing momentum in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership, with both sides recognising their joint role in ensuring global peace and security. The post on X read, 'The All-Party Parliamentary Delegation met Mr. Armin Laschet, Chairman of Foreign Affairs Committee of Bundestag, Mr. Ralph Brinkhaus, MdB and Mr. Hubertus Heil, MdB.& former Minister of Labour & Social Security on 6 June 2025. The delegation conveyed India's unwavering united stand for Zero Tolerance for Terrorism and outlined its resolve to not give in to nuclear blackmail. Leaders noted momentum in the India-Germany Strategic Partnership and joint role in ensuring global Peace and Security.' Prasad and the German parliamentarians discussed opportunities for economic partnership, leveraging Germany's economic strength and India's growing economy. Armin Laschet also condemned the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and peace in the region through continued dialogue. Posting on X, he said that he was 'grateful' for the meeting with the Indian delegation and underscored the strength of the India-Germany partnership, particularly on matters of global security. He wrote, 'Grateful for today's exchange with the Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation. Germany and India share a trusted partnership, especially on global security. We also discussed the brutal 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam. I'm deeply shocked. Germany stands with India in the fight against terrorism. Now it's vital the ceasefire holds and dialogue continues. Peace serves us all.' In his public remarks in Berlin, Laschet said, 'This is a very important moment in the geopolitical situation. We are happy to have India, a close friend of Germany, here in Berlin. I am deeply shocked at the brutal terrorist attacks on 22 April in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of innocent civilians. Our thoughts and sympathies are with the victims and their families. We strongly condemn the attack on civilians. Germany and Europe stand close to India, and we support your fight against terrorism. The current truce is encouraging. It is important that this calm is maintained and that dialogue continues. Stability and peace in the region are in everyone's interests. That is what we want to discuss.' Speaking after the meetings, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad called the interactions valuable and candid. 'A very good meeting with the Vice Chairman of this majestic Parliament. We exchanged views on terrorism, he was very forthright. Terrorism is a global curse, and India's efforts to give security to its people are appreciated. Globally, we need to work together in the field of terrorism, and also, there needs to be good economic cooperation between these two great countries. Germany is a big economic powerhouse in the world. India is a big economic powerhouse in the world,' he said. The high-level engagement comes amid a complex global environment shaped by regional conflicts, rising security threats, and a pressing need for democratic nations to reinforce cooperation. Both sides reiterated that mutual trust, shared democratic values, and coordinated efforts on counterterrorism and economic growth are central to their evolving partnership. With strong condemnations of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam and renewed emphasis on regional peace and dialogue, the visit reflects the growing importance of India-Germany relations, with both countries seeking to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest. (ANI)
India Gazette
23-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
EAM Jaishankar interacts with members of German Parliament, discusses India's commitment to combat terrorism
Berlin [Germany], May 23 (ANI): External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Thursday interacted with members of the German parliament during his official visit to the country. The EAM held discussions on wide-ranging topics, including India's firm commitment to combatting terrorism in all forms and manifestations. Sharing the details in a post on X, EAM appreciated the support of the members of the Parliament for the growth of India-Germany ties. He wrote on X, 'A good interaction with members of German Bundestag this evening in Berlin. Appreciate their strong support for continued growth of India-Germany relations. Also discussed with them India's firm commitment of combatting terrorism in all forms and manifestations.' Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar also chaired the regional conference of Ambassadors in Europe, where he discussed Operation Sindoor and India's message of zero tolerance for terrorism. EAM said that they also discussed on various aspects of further deepening engagements with Europe. He wrote on X, 'Chaired the regional conference of our Ambassadors in Europe today in Berlin. We discussed #OpSindoor and our message of zero tolerance for terrorism. Also deliberated on various aspects of more deeply engaging Europe at a time of change.' India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists affiliated with terror outfits like the Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. After the attack, Pakistan retaliated with cross-border shelling across the Line of Control and Jammu and Kashmir as well as attempted drone attacks along the border regions, following which India launched a coordinated attack and damaged radar infrastructure, communication centres and airfields across 11 airbases in Pakistan. After this, on May 10, an understanding of the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan was announced. EAM Jaishankar is on an official visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24. Earlier during his visit to the Netherlands, EAM Jaishankar had highlighted India's resolve against terrorism. In an interview with Dutch daily de Volkskrant, EAM said, 'We want a definitive end to terrorism. Our message is therefore: yes, the ceasefire has put an end to military actions against each other for now, but if the terrorist attacks from Pakistan continue, there will be consequences. The Pakistanis must understand that very well.' Jaishankar also held a productive meeting in Copenhagen on Wednesday (local time) with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen to advance Indo-Danish relations. During the discussions, Jaishankar also lauded Denmark's solidarity and its support for India's fight against terrorism. (ANI)
The Hindu
22-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
EAM Jaishankar interacts with members of German Parliament, chairs conference of Indian Ambassadors in Europe
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday (May 22, 2025) interacted with members of the German parliament during his official visit to the country. The EAM held discussions on wide-ranging topics, including India's firm commitment to combatting terrorism in all forms and manifestations. Sharing the details in a post on X, the Minister said he appreciated the support of the members of the Parliament for the growth of India-Germany ties. He wrote on X, 'A good interaction with members of German Bundestag this evening in Berlin. Appreciate their strong support for continued growth of India-Germany relations. Also discussed with them India's firm commitment of combatting terrorism in all forms and manifestations.' A good interaction with members of German Bundestag this evening in Berlin. Appreciate their strong support for continued growth of India-Germany relations. Also discussed with them India's firm commitment of combatting terrorism in all forms and manifestations. 🇮🇳 🇩🇪 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 22, 2025 Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar also chaired the regional conference of Indian Ambassadors in Europe, where he discussed Operation Sindoor and India's message of zero tolerance for terrorism. EAM said that they also discussed on various aspects of further deepening engagements with Europe. Chaired the regional conference of our Ambassadors in Europe today in Berlin. We discussed #OpSindoor and our message of zero tolerance for terrorism. Also deliberated on various aspects of more deeply engaging Europe at a time of change. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 22, 2025 He wrote on X, 'Chaired the regional conference of our Ambassadors in Europe today in Berlin. We discussed #OpSindoor and our message of zero tolerance for terrorism. Also deliberated on various aspects of more deeply engaging Europe at a time of change.' Mr. Jaishankar is on an official visit to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany from May 19 to 24. Earlier during his visit to the Netherlands, EAM Jaishankar had highlighted India's resolve against terrorism.
