India Reaffirms Dialogue And Diplomacy As Jaishankar Strengthens Bulgaria Ties Amid Global Conflicts

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has once again underlined India’s consistent position that dialogue and diplomacy must prevail in the face of multiple ongoing global conflicts. 

Speaking in Sofia after his meeting with Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, he emphasised that the world is passing through an exceptionally volatile and uncertain period marked by wars, economic insecurity, the lingering impact of the pandemic, and the recurring threat of terrorism. 

He declared firmly that “this is not an era of war” and stressed that the only viable solution lies in dialogue and diplomacy.

Jaishankar highlighted India’s role as the voice of the Global South, drawing attention to concerns over energy, food, and fertiliser security. He reiterated India’s call for unimpeded maritime trade, noting that economic risks must be addressed through supply chain resilience and diversification.

He warned against any impediment or endangerment of maritime commerce, which remains vital for global stability. He also stressed that terrorism must be met with zero tolerance, adding that on all these issues there was a strong convergence of views between India and Bulgaria.

His visit to Bulgaria included wide-ranging discussions with senior leadership, including Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Petrova-Chamova. These talks focused on expanding bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors and strengthening India’s engagement with Bulgaria and the European Union.

Both sides reviewed the full spectrum of India-Bulgaria relations and explored new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the context of the conclusion of India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations, the Strategic and Defence Partnership, and the Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework.

The External Affairs Minister noted that the discussions also touched upon enhancing cooperation in science and technology, artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, defence, connectivity, mobility, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

He emphasised the importance of increasing the frequency of political engagements to elevate bilateral ties into a contemporary and forward-looking partnership. His remarks reflected India’s broader diplomatic approach of combining strategic partnerships with economic diversification and resilience in an era of global uncertainty.

Following his engagements in Bulgaria, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Finland on 11 June to participate in the 14th edition of the Kultaranta Talks. This year’s theme, ‘A World in Transition: Global, Regional and Local Perspectives’, will provide a platform for India to share its views on pressing global challenges.

During his visit, he will also hold meetings with his Finnish counterpart and other senior leadership, further strengthening India’s traditionally warm and friendly relations with Finland, which have expanded in recent years in areas such as research, innovation, and investment cooperation.

India’s diplomatic outreach in Europe, as demonstrated by Jaishankar’s visits to Bulgaria and Finland, underscores New Delhi’s commitment to building resilient partnerships, advocating for dialogue over conflict, and ensuring that the concerns of the Global South are heard on the international stage.

His repeated emphasis on supply chain resilience, maritime security, and zero tolerance for terrorism reflects India’s strategic priorities in navigating a turbulent global environment.

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EAM Jaishankar Urges Contemporary And Forward-Looking Partnership With Bulgaria

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar undertook a significant visit to Bulgaria, where he engaged with the country’s senior leadership to strengthen bilateral cooperation and deepen India’s engagement with both Bulgaria and the European Union.

His discussions with Bulgarian leaders, including Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, focused on expanding collaboration across a wide range of sectors and on shaping a partnership that is contemporary and forward-looking.

In his press remarks following the meeting with Foreign Minister Petrova-Chamova, Jaishankar emphasised the longstanding ties between India and Bulgaria, noting that the task now is to refashion these into a modern relationship that reflects current global realities.

He underlined India’s rapid economic growth of 7–8 per cent annually, which offers new opportunities for cooperation. He highlighted sectors such as engineering and defence as areas where India presents significant potential, while also pointing out that Indian companies are increasingly investing abroad and seeking new collaborations.

Jaishankar also drew attention to the growing popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Bulgaria, observing how these cultural and wellness traditions are strengthening people-to-people connections.

He further invited Bulgaria to deepen engagement with India’s creative industries, where India has emerged as a major global player. This cultural dimension, he suggested, could complement economic and strategic cooperation, making the partnership more holistic.

On the India-European Union front, Jaishankar recalled the conclusion earlier this year of the Free Trade Agreement, alongside a security and defence partnership and a mobility framework. He described these as transformative instruments that will reshape India-EU relations.

He stressed that India intends to explore economic opportunities with each EU member state individually, encouraging them to undertake initiatives in India that would benefit both sides.

During his talks with Bulgarian leaders, Jaishankar confirmed that both sides reviewed the full spectrum of India-Bulgaria relations. They explored new avenues for cooperation in the context of the India-EU FTA, the Strategic and Defence Partnership, and the Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework. These discussions underscored the ambition to elevate ties beyond traditional areas into advanced sectors such as technology, defence, and mobility.

Following his Bulgaria visit, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Finland on 11 June to participate in the 14th edition of the Kultaranta Talks. This year’s theme, “A World in Transition: Global, Regional and Local Perspectives,” will provide a platform for wide-ranging discussions on international affairs. In Finland, he will also hold meetings with his counterpart and other senior leadership, further advancing India’s diplomatic outreach in Europe.

This visit to Bulgaria reflects India’s broader strategy of strengthening ties with European nations, leveraging economic growth, cultural connections, and strategic partnerships to build relationships that are future-oriented and mutually beneficial.

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EAM Jaishankar Strengthens India-Bulgaria Ties With Strategic Talks In Sofia

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held significant discussions in Sofia with Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, underscoring India’s intent to deepen its strategic partnership with Bulgaria and strengthen engagement with the European Union.

His visit highlighted the growing importance of India’s outreach to Eastern Europe, particularly in the context of evolving global dynamics and the strengthening of the India-EU Strategic Partnership.

Following his meeting with Prime Minister Radev, Jaishankar conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Bulgarian leadership and people. He emphasised the robust nature of bilateral ties and noted that recent opportunities created by the India-EU Strategic Partnership have opened new avenues for cooperation.

The discussions centred on the need for closer collaboration between India and Bulgaria to de-risk and diversify in an increasingly volatile international environment. Both sides explored cooperation in trade and investment, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, space, defence, mobility, tourism, and the creative entertainment industry.

They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, reflecting the shared commitment to a forward-looking partnership.

Later, Jaishankar met Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, where the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations. The talks were particularly focused on the conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations, the Strategic and Defence Partnership, and the Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework.

Jaishankar highlighted the importance of expanding economic engagement and strengthening collaboration in science and technology, artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, defence, connectivity, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. He also stressed the need to increase the frequency of political engagements to ensure sustained momentum in bilateral ties.

During his visit, Jaishankar interacted with prominent Bulgarian friends of India, describing the meeting as a productive exchange of ideas on how to deepen economic, academic, cultural, mobility, and people-to-people partnerships. This outreach reflects India’s broader diplomatic strategy of engaging with influential stakeholders beyond formal government channels to build enduring relationships.

EAM Jaishankar also visited the National Historical Museum in Sofia, where he explored artefacts spanning millennia. He praised Bulgaria’s efforts to preserve its rich historical and cultural legacy, noting that such heritage strengthens the cultural bonds between the two nations. His appreciation of Bulgaria’s historical preservation underscores India’s recognition of cultural diplomacy as a vital pillar of bilateral relations.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaishankar will now travel to Finland to participate in the 14th edition of the Kultaranta Talks, themed ‘A World in Transition: Global, Regional and Local Perspectives.’

He is scheduled to meet his Finnish counterpart and other senior leadership, further expanding India’s engagement with Northern Europe. India and Finland share traditionally warm relations, with recent years witnessing growth in research, innovation, and investment cooperation.

The Indian community in Finland is described as vibrant and well-integrated, while Indian culture and yoga continue to enjoy significant popularity.

Relations between India and Bulgaria are longstanding, warm, and friendly, with cultural links dating back centuries. Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1954, but traces of contact between the peoples of the two nations can be found as early as the 8th century AD.

This historical depth provides a strong foundation for the contemporary partnership that both sides are committed to transforming into a modern, forward-looking relationship.

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Bulgarian President Rings Up Droupadi Murmu, Expresses Gratitude For Naval Rescue of Hijacked Vessel

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday received a phone call from her Bulgarian counterpart, Rumen Radev, during which the latter expressed his gratitude for the successful rescue operation of hijacked Bulgarian vessel MV Ruen by the Indian Navy.

Hailing the naval operation 'Sankalp', which resulted in the rescue of seven Bulgarians, the two leaders agreed to take relations between India and Bulgaria further.

"President Droupadi Murmu received a telephone call from President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria @PresidentOfBg, who conveyed his gratitude for the Indian Navy's rescue of the hijacked Bulgarian Vessel MV Ruen and its crew, including 7 Bulgarian nationals. The two leaders agreed to further strengthen the India-Bulgaria partnership based on shared values and interests," President Murmu posted on X.

On Saturday, INS Kolkata, deployed in the Arabian Sea, in a long-drawn operation spanning over 40 hours, thwarted the designs of the Somali pirates to hijack ships transiting through the region by intercepting the pirate ship MV Ruen. The merchant vessel had been hijacked in December 2023 and was under the control of the Somali Pirates until the Indian Navy intercepted it on Friday.

The Indian Navy, as part of its Maritime Security Operations, has been carrying out extensive surveillance in the region, including monitoring traffic in Areas of Interest. Based on the analysis of the surveillance information, the Indian Navy was able to track the movement of the Pirate Ship Ruen and directed INS Kolkata to intercept the ship approximately 260 Nm East of Somalia.

"INS Kolkata intercepted Ruen in the morning of March 15 and confirmed the presence of armed pirates through a ship-launched drone. In a reckless hostile act, the pirates shot down the drone and fired at the Indian Naval warship. In a calibrated response in accordance with International Laws, Kolkata disabled the ship's steering system and navigational aids, forcing the Pirate Ship to stop," the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement.

INS Kolkata undertook precisely measured actions while maintaining her position close to the pirate ship and also engaged in forceful negotiations, eventually resulting in the pirates surrendering and releasing MV Ruen and its original crew present onboard.

The efforts of the Indian Navy in the ongoing anti-piracy operation 1,400 nm (2,600 km) from mainland India were augmented by the deployment of INS Subhadra in the area AM 16 Mar 24, and also by air-dropping Marine Commandos (PRAHARS) by C-17 aircraft in the same afternoon.

The pirate vessel was kept under surveillance by HALE RPA and P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft. Due to sustained pressure and calibrated actions by the Indian Navy over 40 hours, all 35 Somali pirates surrendered on March 16.

All 17 original crew members of MV Ruen were safely evacuated from the pirate vessel without any injury. The vessel was been sanitised for the presence of illegal arms, ammunition and contraband.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed

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Bulgarian President Expresses Gratitude To PM Modi For Successful Operation By Indian Navy In Arabian Sea

Sofia: Bulgarian President Rumen Radev expressed his gratitude to the Indian Navy for successfully carrying out a rescue operation on the hijacked Bulgarian ship, MV Ruen, on Monday.

The "Rouen" ship with eight Bulgarians, nine Myanmarese and one Angolan citizen on board was captured by pirates in the Arabian Sea in December last year.

In an official post on X, Rumen Radev states, "My sincere gratitude to PM @narendramodi for the brave action of Navy rescuing the hijacked Bulgarian ship "Ruen" and its crew, including 7 Bulgarian citizens."

Meanwhile, Bulgaria's foreign minister Mariya Gabriel in a Facebook post said on Saturday that she held a conversation with the Indian Ambassador to Bulgaria Sanjay Rana for the Indian Navy's Operation on MV Ruen and thanked him for rescuing Bulgarian nationals.

In a recent post on Facebook Bulgaria's foreign minister Mariya Gabriel said, "Today, March 16, with the help of the Indian Navy, the crew of the ship "Rouen" hijacked on December 14, 2023, including seven Bulgarian citizens, was released."

"Thanks to the efforts of the Indian military, the entire crew of the ship was freed. All sailors are in good health and efforts are currently being made for their timely return to Bulgaria," she added.

Speaking regarding the incident, she stated that the ship "Rouen" with eight Bulgarians, nine Myanmar and one Angolan citizen on board was captured by pirates in the Arabian Sea in December last year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in close cooperation with all competent institutions, the overseas representations of the Republic of Bulgaria in the region and international partners is actively involved in the efforts to release the Bulgarian crew."

On March 16, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a conversation was also held with the Indian ambassador in Sofia, Ambassador Sanjay Rana and an additional request was made to the Indian side for assistance and to take all possible actions to protect the life and health of the crew.

She added in her statement, "I am extremely grateful for the assistance of the Indian side in the process of releasing the Bulgarian sailors."

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'That's What Friends Are For': Jaishankar's Sweet Reply After Bulgaria Thanks India For Ship Rescue

Bulgaria’s deputy PM Mariya Gabriel has expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for the successful operation to rescue the hijacked vessel Ruen & its crew members, including 7 Bulgarian nationals

After Republic of Bulgaria’s deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs Mariya Gabriel expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for rescuing a hijacked merchant vessel and its 17 crew members including 7 Bulgarian nationals in the Arabian Sea, India’s external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar replied by saying “that’s what friends are for".

Jaishankar’s reply came after Mariya Gabriel in a post on social media platform X on Sunday said: “I express my gratitude to the Indian navy for the successful operation to rescue the hijacked vessel Ruen & its crew members, including 7 BG nationals Thank you for support & great effort. We continue to work together to protect lives of the crew."

In an ongoing anti-piracy “Operation Sankalp", the Indian forces rescued the crew of the bulk carrier vessel called MV Ruen which was hijacked by Somali pirates near the Yemeni island of Socotra recently.

As part of the “Operation Sankalp", the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) C-17 aircraft executed a precision air-born drop of two boats along with Indian Navy MARCOS in the Arabian Sea on Saturday.

Hailing the operation, the Indian Air Force in a post on X said: “In a remarkable display of Jointness & Integration, an IAF C-17 aircraft executed a precision Airborne Drop of two Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft (CRRC) boats, along with Indian Navy MARCOS in the Arabian Sea in support of ongoing anti-piracy Op Sankalp."

“Flying for almost 10 hrs to an area 2600 kms off the Indian Coast, the Op was carried out to rescue crew of bulk carrier vessel MV Ruen. The ship was hijacked by Somali pirates near Yemeni island of Socotra recently. Working seamlessly with @indiannavy, the mission was successful with all the 17 crew on-board recovered safely," the IAF added.

MV Ruen was under the control of Somalian pirates since last December, the Indian Navy said in a statement.

“INS Kolkata, a mission deployed in the Arabian Sea, through the sustained high tempo of operations, has thwarted the designs of the Somali pirates to hijack ships transiting through the region by intercepting the pirate ship MV Ruen, on March 16. The merchant vessel had been hijacked in December 2023 and was under the control of the Somalian Pirates till now," said the Indian Navy, adding that 35 pirates were coerced to surrender.

(With Agency Inputs)

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Bulgarian Foreign Minister Thanks Indian Navy For Rescuing Hijacked Vessel

Sofia: Bulgarian Foreign Minister, Mariya Gabriel on Sunday expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for successfully carrying out a rescue operation to take back control of a hijacked merchant vessel and its 17 crew members including seven Bulgarian nationals in the Arabian Sea.

She thanked the Indian Navy for the support and reaffirmed cooperation to protect the lives of the crew.

Taking to X, Bulgerian Foreign Minister said, "I express my gratitude to the Indian navy for the successful operation to rescue the hijacked vessel Ruen & its crew members, including 7 BG nationals Thank you for support & great effort. We continue to work together to protect lives of the crew."

On Saturday, the C-17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force executed a precision air-born drop of two boats along with Indian Navy MARCOS in the Arabian Sea in support of ongoing anti-piracy 'Operation Sankalp'.

The operation was carried out to rescue the crew of the bulk carrier vessel MV Ruen which was hijacked by Somali pirates near the Yemeni island of Socotra recently.

In a post on X, the Indian Air Force, hailing the operation, stated, "In a remarkable display of Jointness & Integration, an IAF C-17 aircraft executed a precision Airborne Drop of two Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft (CRRC) boats, along with Indian Navy MARCOS in the Arabian Sea in support of ongoing anti-piracy Op Sankalp."

"Flying for almost 10 hrs to an area 2600 kms off the Indian Coast, the Op was carried out to rescue crew of bulk carrier vessel MV Ruen. The ship was hijacked by Somali pirates near Yemeni island of Socotra recently. Working seamlessly with @indiannavy, the mission was successful with all the 17 crew on-board recovered safely," the Indian Air Force added.

The Indian Navy thwarted the piracy attempt on MV Ruen, which was under the control of Somalian pirates since last December, by safely evacuating 17 crew members and coercing 35 pirates to surrender.

The Indian Navy informed in a statement that the mission was carried out by INS Kolkata on Saturday.

"INS Kolkata, a mission deployed in the Arabian Sea, through the sustained high tempo of operations, has thwarted the designs of the Somali pirates to hijack ships transiting through the region by intercepting the pirate ship MV Ruen, on March 16. The merchant vessel had been hijacked in December 2023 and was under the control of the Somalian Pirates till now," the statement read.

Earlier, the navy informed that the Indian warship INS Kolkata successfully cornered and coerced all 35 pirates to surrender, ensuring the safe evacuation of 17 crew members from the pirate vessel without any injury.

In the rescue operation, which lasted for the last 40 hours, INS Kolkata intercepted the under-attack pirate ship Ruen, sailing almost 2600 km from the shores of the Indian Coast, and forced the pirate ship to stop through calibrated actions.

In the action to safely rescue the crew members and take full control of the distressed vessel, the operation was supported by the Indian warship INS Subhadra, High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE RPA) drones, P8I maritime patrol aircraft, and MARCOS PRAHARs airdropped by C-17 aircraft.

Later, the vessel was also sanitised for the presence of illegal arms, ammunition, and contraband.

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EAM Jaishankar, His Bulgarian Counterpart Discuss Ukraine Conflict At Munich Security Conference

Munich: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday met with his Bulgarian counterpart, Mariya Gabriel and discussed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Taking to X, EAM Jaishankar said, "Nice to meet DPM and FM @GabrielMariya of Bulgaria on #MSC2024 sidelines. Discussed our growing bilateral relationship and welcomed Bulgaria's decision to join @isolaralliance. Also exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict."

Earlier today, EAM Jaishankar began his engagements on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference by meeting United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Peru Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez-Olaechea.

In the meeting, EAM Jaishankar and his UK counterpart discussed India-UK bilateral cooperation and global and regional issues.

Taking to X, EAM Jaishankar shared details of the meeting saying, "Started my engagements at #MunichSecurityConference by meeting UK Foreign Secretary @David_Cameron. A good discussion on our bilateral cooperation as well as global and regional issues. Also exchanged views on the cricket match underway."

Additionally, EAM Jaishankar also met with Peru Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez Olaechea and spoke about the significant reforms in the United Nations and India-Peru economic cooperation.

"Good to meet Peru Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez-Olaechea. Spoke about UN reform and our economic cooperation," Jaishankar posted on X.

The meetings come as EAM Jaishankar reached Germany for the 60th Munich Security Conference (MSC) taking place as an in-person event from February 16 to 18, 2024, at its traditional venue, the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, an official statement said.

This year's conference is being held under the chairmanship of the German Ambassador to the US, Christoph Heusgen.

According to the official website of MSC, "The MSC will once again welcome a series of high-ranking international decision-makers and experts, including heads of state and government, ministers, and diverse voices from international organizations, civil society, the private sector and the media."

Meanwhile, US State Department said that United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Munich Security Conference on Friday.

The planned meeting on the sidelines of the security conference (February 16-18) is part of efforts to increase high-level engagements after months of heightened tensions over issues ranging from a suspected Chinese spy balloon and Taiwan to trade restrictions, according to Kyodo.

Secretary Blinken will participate in the conference, which begins today, as part of the US delegation led by Vice President Kamala Harris, who will deliver a major policy speech at the event.

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Meenakshi Lekhi In Hungary And Bulgaria To Strengthen Ties

New Delhi: Aiming to further deepen the bilateral relations with the European nations, Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi will be visiting to Hungary and Bulgaria, starting November 28.

Her visit will conclude on December 1.

“Commenced my official visit to Hungary and Bulgaria today. Look forward to discussing ways to further strengthen India's ties with the two countries and interacting with students and diaspora. Will address conference on 75 years of relations between 🇮🇳 and 🇭🇺,” she said on X.

During her four-day official tour, Lekhi will spend two days in each country.

During her visit to Hungary, she will address a conference at the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs.

She will meet the Deputy Foreign Minister, Culture Minister and other higher dignitaries.

She will also visit the Indology Centre at ELTE University and interact with students and Indian diaspora.



“Received a warm welcome upon arrival in Hungary at the Budapest Airport. Look forward to meeting the Hungarian authorities, think tanks, intellectuals and academics and exchanging views on areas of mutual interest. Also, to interact with the Indian diaspora,” she added.

Following her visit to Hungary, Lekhi will proceed to Bulgaria.

In Sofia, she is expected to call on Vice President of Bulgaria.

She will also meet with the Dy. Prime Minister & Foreign Minister and the Cultural Minister of Bulgaria. MoS will pay tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi.



In a statement, the ministry of external affairs said: Her visit to Hungary and Bulgaria is expected to further strengthen India’s bilateral relations with these countries.”

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Adani Subsidiary Joins Hands With Bulgaria-Based Firm For Defence Business

Adani subsidiary Agneya Systems Ltd will hold a 56% stake and Armaco JSC 44 % in Armada Defence Systems. The JV, Armada Defence Systems, intends to make products for Indian Army

Adani Enterprises, the holding entity of the port-to-power conglomerate Adani group, on January 21 said its two-step subsidiary Agneya Systems Ltd (ASL) has formed a joint venture with the Bulgaria-based Armaco JSC for defence business.

Armada Defence Systems Limited was incorporated on "January 20, 2023" in the "ratio of 56:44", with ASL holding 56 percent of the stake and Armaco JSC the remaining 44 percent, it said.

The company was registered in Gujarat, with Ahmedabad listed as the place of incorporation, as per an exchange filing.

Armada Defence Systems has been "incorporated with the object of

manufacturing various types of product and part for Indian Armed Forces need as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat vision", the regulatory filing added.

The cost of acquisition for Adani Enterprises in the venture is Rs 56,000, with 5,600 equity shares being acquired for Rs 10 each, it stated. The acquisition was in the form of cash consideration.

The company has an authorised share capital of Rs 1 lakh, along with a paid-up share capital of Rs 1 lakh, the filing said, adding that the JV was yet to begin business operations.

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Soviet-Made MiG-29 Fighter Jet Crashes; Bulgarian Air Force Pilot Missing

A Soviet-built MiG-29 fighter jet from Bulgaria's air force crashed into the Black Sea during a military exercise and the pilot is missing, the Bulgarian Defence Ministry said Wednesday.

The ministry said the fighter jet disappeared from radar at 12:45 a.m. local time over the country's territorial waters. It said a search and rescue operation was launched immediately and is continuing, but the pilot's status remains unknown.

The reasons for the crash are unclear, but military officials suspended the Shabla 2021 drill.

Two other MiG-29 jets belonging to Bulgaria crashed in 1994 and in 2012.

Since joining NATO in 2004, Bulgaria has sought to replace its air fleet of Soviet-made Mig-29 jets, but financial problems have caused repeated delays.

The Balkan country signed a deal in 2019 to buy eight F-16 military jets from U.S.-based firm Lockheed Martin as part of efforts to bring its air force in line with NATO standards. The first of the F-16's are scheduled to be delivered to Bulgaria by 2023.

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India To Export BrahMos Missiles To Friendly Nations, Say Sources

From the Gulf Region, UAE has expressed its keenness to buy this missile, however, there has been no forward movement on this. BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture of India and Russia, is one of the platforms which can be exported to friendly nations

BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture of India and Russia, is one of the platforms which can be exported to friendly nations. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) which is in the process of readying a list of military items that can be exported has BrahMos Missiles among other items. “After fulfilling the requirements of the Indian armed forces, BrahMos missile can be exported to third countries,” sources have confirmed to Financial Express Online.

The BrahMos Missile which has been designed developed and produced jointly by India and Russia has generated a lot of interest globally and both governments of both countries are ready to export this supersonic missile to other countries.

The India-Russia Brahmos JV pavilion at the India Pavilion at the Army-2020 International Military and Technical Forum has been receiving a lot of attention. According to the Embassy of India in Moscow, the Indian Pavilion was inaugurated by Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar and Indian Ambassador DB Venkatesh Verma.

The defence secretary production is in Moscow accompanied by a high-level official and business delegation which has representatives of private sector companies for Army-2020. The weeklong event (Aug 23-29) has been organized by the Russian Defence Ministry. India is one of the 70 nations who are attending the event where the Russian industry has displayed its military ware including tanks and armoured vehicles made there locally are on display.

Exporting BrahMos

The missile has caught the attention of countries from South America to ASEAN nations, as well as Eastern European countries — they all are keen to buy the BrahMos which is a joint venture between India and Russia.

Several countries including Brazil, Chile, the Philippines, South Korea, Algeria, Greece, South Africa, Malaysia, Thailand, Egypt, Singapore, and Bulgaria have been expressing their interest for almost a while and the discussions have gone to the next level.

From the Gulf Region, UAE has expressed its keenness to buy this missile, however, there has been no forward movement on this. As has been reported by Financial Express Online earlier, “The UAE enjoys good relations with both India and Russia and there is no conflict of interest. There would be no problems if the missile is exported to that country,” a source said.

Talks were in an advanced stage with Vietnam and Indonesia, but there has been no further development.

More About BrahMos Aerospace

It was established in 1998 as a joint venture — NPO Mashinostroyeniya and Defence Research and Development Organisation and forming BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited. The BrahMos is a short-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile. It can be launched from aircraft, land, submarines or ships and has been developed at a low budget of $ 300 million.

And, as has been reported by Financial Express Online, under the IGA which was signed in 1998 between the two countries, the issue of exporting to a third country will be decided jointly by the two countries. And the export to a third country will be done after the necessary intergovernmental procedures have been cleared in both countries.

The BrahMos-NG, because of its shorter dimensions has greater export potential as it can be compatible with most platforms which are being used by friendly nations.

South American nation Chile has been keen to buy this missile and has been in constant talks with both India and Russia. As per the local laws, BrahMos Aerospace is already registered with Chilean Armed Forces. A top diplomat confirmed that “Since BrahMos NG can be accommodated on sea and air platforms, there has been a lot of interest from the government of Chile and their armed forces for ship and shore-based platforms.”

The NG of BrahMos has a shorter dimension is lighter and mightier to its predecessor variant and can go up to Mach 3.5.

BrahMos Aerospace has been actively participating in various expos in the South American Region including FIDAE show in Chile and is likely to put up a stand at the XII version of EXPONAVAL will be held at Con Naval Base and Valparaiso in Chile.

However, according to sources, “the event which is expected to take place from Dec 1-4 is expected to be postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic.” The Commander of the Chilean Navy has invited the Indian Navy Chief and has invited one of the Indian Navy warships to attend the event at Valparaiso and also M/s BrahMos.”

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Kalyani Group, Bulgaria's Arsenal Sign MoU To Manufacture Small Arms

Arsenal's AR-M4SF Assault Rifle

New Delhi: Kalyani group and Bulgarian company Arsenal signed an MoU on Thursday to manufacture small arms and ammunition in India, according to a press release.

'Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) and Arsenal will be aggressively developing a manufacturing capability in India for the 'AR' 7.62 x 39mm assault rifle and the 'MG' 7.62 x 51mm machine gun series,' it added.

KSSL is the defence arm of Pune-based Kalyani group and Arsenal is a joint stock company from Bulgaria.

The 'strategic' alliance is also actively participating in the projects for meeting the Army’s requirement of certain types of ammunition over a '10-year program', the release noted.

Arsenal's small arms have been in active operations in India for 'decades' and have a 'proven record' of performance, it mentioned.

Rajinder Singh Bhatia, Chairman, KSSL, said “We are very excited to enter the small arms segment. This strategic alliance will combine Arsenal’s proven technology, knowledge and experience as an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) with world class design, development and manufacturing capabilities of the Kalyani group.'

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Your Journey Inspired Us: NASA Commends ISRO's Moon Mission Chandrayaan-2; The World Hails India's Moon Mission

The US space agency also said that it looks forward to working with ISRO to explore the solar system together

Washington DC: The US space agency NASA on Saturday commended Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO`s) attempt to place 'Vikram' lander of Chandrayaan-2 mission on the Moon`s South Pole and said it was inspired with the Indian space agency`s journey.

The US space agency also said that it looks forward to working with ISRO to explore the solar system together.

"Space is hard. We commend ISRO`s attempt to land their #Chandrayaan2 mission on the Moon's South Pole. You have inspired us with your journey and we look forward to future opportunities to explore our solar system together," NASA said in a tweet.

The communication with Vikram lander was lost in the wee hours of Saturday, moments before its planned landing on the south pole region of the Moon.

ISRO chairman K Sivan announced that communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface. Sivan also said that the space agency will continue trying to establish link with the lost Vikram lander for the next 14 days.

He further added that the estimated life of the Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter is now seven years instead of one year.

"The last portion was not executed the right way, in that phase only we lost the link with the Lander, and could not establish communication subsequently. Right now the communication is lost. We will try to establish a link for the next 14 days," Sivan said in a televised interview to Doordarshan.

He added that 90 to 95 per cent of the mission objectives have been accomplished. The Vikram lander successfully separated from Chandrayaan-2 orbiter on September 2. The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter continues to orbit the moon.

After revolving around the Earth`s orbit for nearly 23 days, the spacecraft began its journey to the moon on August 14. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.

In his address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed ISRO`s scientists saying that they live for the country and irrespective of setbacks, the country`s resolve to reach the moon has strengthened more.

Despite ISRO losing contact with the Vikram lander in the last minutes of its descent, leaders around the world on Saturday exuded confidence in India and its space mission, saying the world would "reckon the major technological advancement" of the Indian space program.

Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering was the first world leader to hail the development. He took to Twitter lauding ISRO for the courage and hard work on Chandrayaan-2 and said that he had no doubt the space agency would accomplish the lunar mission in the future.

"We are proud of India and its scientists today. Chandrayaan-2 saw some challenges last minute but the courage and hard work you have shown are historical. Knowing Prime Minister @narendramodi, I have no doubt he and his ISRO team will make it happen one day," Tshering wrote on Twitter.

Mauritius also lauded the efforts of the ISRO team. Its PM Pravind Jugnauth said that Mauritius is looking forward to collaborative efforts with the ISRO team.

"I wish to congratulate the government of India and the ISRO team for their attempt at landing the Vikram lander and the Pragyaan rover on the lunar South Pole," tweeted Pravind Jugnauth.

"Although it wasn't a successful landing this time, the world would reckon the major technological advancement of Indian Spacial Program. We look forward to collaborative efforts between Mauritius and ISRO team in the future," he added.

Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid also took to Twitter to praise the space mission and Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s vision and said that #Chandrayaan2 has contributed immensely to science and "made all proud".

"Despite the last-minute challenge #VikramLander faced the #Chandrayaan2 has contributed immensely to science and made all proud. Salute the tireless work of scientists @isro, the vision of PM @narendramodi and the determination of the people of #India," Shahid wrote.

Vietnam Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh also appreciated ISRO`s efforts and said that it was just the beginning of a story.

"#Chandrayaan2: success doesn`t come easy, it`s a long journey with a lot of efforts and it is worth to try. My appreciation to @isro & #India. This is just the beginning of a story," he tweeted.

Bulgaria also congratulated India for Chandrayaan-2. "We congratulate India on their historic #Chandrayaan-2 mission attempting to land at the lunar South Pole. 

Despite last-minute challenges, it was a giant step forward towards reaching the ultimate goal next time," tweeted Ministry of Foreign Affair of Bulgaria.

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Indian Army Begins 3 Nation Hunt For New LMGs For Infantry

The Bulgarian Arsenal SAM7R light machine gun

The team, which left India a few days ago, is first visiting Bulgaria, where it will meet representatives from Arsenal, a gun and ammunition manufacturer. After the visits, the team is expected to return to India by May end

New Delhi: The Indian Army has begun its hunt for new light machine guns (LMG) as an army-led team is visiting three countries to procure about 17,000 such guns for the infantry under the fast track procedure, officials said.

The team, which left India a few days ago, is first visiting Bulgaria, where it will meet representatives from Arsenal, a gun and ammunition manufacturer. It will then go to Israel for the Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) and then to South Korea for S&T Motiv. It is visiting these manufacturers because they had responded with their bids to the army’s request for procuring 16,400 LMGs under the fast track procedure (FTP).

US-based Sig Sauer had also submitted its bid and the team had planned to visit it, but the company later said that because it has an existing order for 72,400 assault rifles for the Indian Army under the FTP and a few more orders, including from the US Army, it won’t have the production capacity for the new LMGs. So, the team decided to visit only Bulgaria, Israel and South Korea.

Last February, the Defence Acquisition Council led by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had cleared the procurement of the LMGs under the FTP. The FTP is to ensure expeditious procurement for urgent operational requirements of the regular and special forces. It is applied to cases where there has been an unforeseen delay, which is adversely affecting the capacity of the forces. The team, which also has officials from the defence ministry, will evaluate the LMGs produced by the manufacturers.

Officials explained that the army is looking at procuring an LMG with a calibre of 7.62x51mm, which will replace the in-service INSAS LMG that has a calibre of 5.56x45mm. The higher calibre means that the new LMG will be more lethal.

“It will also have belted ammunition, which means that it will have a sustained rate of fire, unlike LMGs wherein the magazine has to constantly be changed,” explained an official.

After the visits, the team is expected to return to India by May end. It will then ask the manufacturers to come to India to carry out compatibility tests with Indian made ammunition (produced by the Ordnance Factory Board) at some firing ranges.

The FTP, unlike the normal procurement route, doesn’t have lengthy user trials and only has short demonstrations like the ones to be done in India. It looks at procuring equipment which are already in service, so the time required for evaluation is minimised. The team will then submit a report to the defence ministry’s acquisition department. The lowest bidder will be selected and the contract will be signed.

“It could take about seven to eight more months for procuring the LMGs,” said an official.

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