New Delhi: The ground situation in Ukraine currently does not permit the return of Indian students, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in the Rajya Sabha during the ongoing monsoon session of the Parliament on Thursday. The MEA said that approximately 20,000 Indian students have returned from Ukraine to India as a consequence of the conflict in that country.
The External Affairs Ministry said that the further studies of these students have understandably been a matter of concern. “We have been in touch with educational authorities in Ukraine in this context. The Ukrainian side has essentially reiterated its willingness to continue online courses,” it said.
MEA on Ban on Bilateral Trade with Pakistan
The MEA said that in August 2019, Pakistan had announced the suspension of bilateral trade with India. The country had partially relaxed its ban on trade with India in September 2019 by permitting
trade in certain pharmaceutical products.
However, there has not been any progress regarding resumption of trade with Pakistan since then, the MEA added.
MEA on Protection of Indians in Sri Lanka
The government has been continuously monitoring the developments in India’s bilateral relations, including the sphere of trade and commerce. In the context of Sri Lanka, the bilateral trade partnership has witnessed considerable expansion in recent years and the various trade and bilateral agreements between India and the island nation continue to remain in force, the Ministry of External Affairs said.
“The Government of India accords utmost priority to ensuring the safety and security of all Indians abroad. Our mission and posts in Sri Lanka are dedicated to the overall welfare, including ensuring safety and security of Indians in Sri Lanka. Any matters related to the
security of Indians is taken up with the host government wherever necessary for action on priority basis.”