NSA Ajit Doval met Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing as New Delhi and Beijing seek to maintain peace along the border and build on recent efforts to stabilise bilateral relations.

India and China discussed ways to strengthen peace and tranquillity in their border areas and improve broader bilateral relations during National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s meeting with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng in Beijing on Tuesday, August 25. The meeting comes as the two countries continue high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at stabilising ties after years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Doval is in Beijing for a two-day visit and is also holding the 25th round of Special Representatives talks on the India-China boundary question with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The Special Representatives mechanism remains the principal structured channel for discussions on the long-running boundary dispute. 

The latest engagement is significant because India has repeatedly maintained that peace and tranquillity along the border are essential for the broader relationship with China. Beijing has also said the two sides should continue communication on the boundary question in accordance with understandings reached by their leaders and work jointly to safeguard peace in border areas. 

Focus on Border Stability

The Doval-Han meeting takes place against the backdrop of continuing differences over the disputed Himalayan boundary, including developments involving Arunachal Pradesh. Relations between New Delhi and Beijing came under severe strain following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash and the prolonged military stand-off in eastern Ladakh.

Since then, both countries have used diplomatic and military channels to manage tensions. The two sides have also taken steps towards gradually restoring broader engagement, although the boundary dispute itself remains unresolved. 

25th Round of Boundary Talks

Doval’s meeting with Han Zheng is taking place alongside the 25th round of the Special Representatives dialogue with Wang Yi. China’s Foreign Ministry said the talks would involve in-depth communication on the boundary question as well as exchanges on bilateral, regional and international issues.

The previous, 24th round of talks was held in August 2025. According to Beijing, the two sides held candid and in-depth discussions during that meeting and reached several common understandings.

India Links Border to Wider Ties

New Delhi has consistently linked the condition of the border with the overall trajectory of India-China relations. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently reiterated that peace and tranquillity in the border areas are a prerequisite for good relations between the two countries. 

The position reflects India's approach since the 2020 crisis: progress in other areas of the relationship cannot be separated entirely from stability along the LAC.

Gradual Thaw Underway

The latest diplomatic exchanges come amid signs of a gradual improvement in India-China relations. Doval and Wang Yi had also held discussions in New Delhi in June, when the two sides reviewed bilateral developments and noted progress towards gradual normalisation. 

However, the recent engagement does not mean that all differences have been resolved. The boundary question remains unsettled, while strategic and political differences continue between the two Asian powers.

BRICS Summit in Focus

The diplomatic engagement also comes ahead of the BRICS summit scheduled to be hosted by India in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend the summit, although his visit has not yet been officially confirmed. Reuters reported that preparations were underway for a possible visit, which would be Xi's first trip to India in seven years. 

The continuing high-level contacts between the two countries could therefore provide an important channel for managing differences before the summit.

For now, the emphasis from both sides remains on keeping communication open, maintaining peace along the border and preventing unresolved disputes from disrupting the broader relationship. The outcome of the latest Special Representatives talks will offer a clearer indication of whether the recent diplomatic thaw can be sustained.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has arrived in Beijing for the 25th round of India-China Special Representatives’ talks on the boundary question, with the crucial meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi scheduled for Tuesday, August 25. The talks come at a significant moment for bilateral relations, with India preparing to host the BRICS Summit in New Delhi in September and expectations building around a possible visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has confirmed that Wang Yi, who is also China’s Special Representative for the boundary question, will co-chair the talks with Doval in Beijing on August 25. The meeting is part of the long-running Special Representatives mechanism established in 2003 to work towards a framework for resolving the India-China boundary dispute. 

Border Issue Takes Centre Stage

The immediate focus of the Doval-Wang meeting is expected to remain the boundary question and maintaining peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The two countries have continued diplomatic engagement since the military tensions that followed the deadly Galwan Valley clash in 2020.

The Special Representatives mechanism has not produced a final settlement of the boundary dispute, but it remains an important channel for senior-level communication. The two sides have used the platform to discuss border tensions, disengagement-related issues and broader measures aimed at preventing further escalation. 

Why August 25 Talks Matter

The timing of Doval’s visit is particularly important. The talks are taking place only weeks before the BRICS Summit, which India is scheduled to host in New Delhi on September 12-13.

A possible visit by Xi Jinping has added another layer of significance to the diplomatic engagement. While Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed the Chinese President’s India visit, several reports have indicated that preparations are being made for high-level engagement around the BRICS meeting. 

For New Delhi, a stable border environment would provide a stronger foundation for any broader political dialogue. At the same time, India has consistently maintained that peace and tranquillity along the border are essential for sustainable improvement in the wider relationship.

Doval-Wang Dialogue

Doval and Wang are not new to the difficult India-China diplomatic track. Both serve as their respective countries’ Special Representatives on the boundary issue, giving their discussions a mandate that goes beyond routine diplomatic consultations.

The August 25 meeting is also significant because it represents the latest attempt to keep the highest-level boundary dialogue active after years of tensions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the two sides would continue communication on the boundary issue in line with understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries and work to safeguard peace in border areas. 

Possible Xi Jinping Visit

The prospect of Xi Jinping travelling to India for the BRICS Summit is closely linked to the current diplomatic activity, although his participation has not been officially confirmed by Beijing.

If the visit takes place, it could potentially provide an opportunity for Xi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss not only the border situation but also trade, economic relations and other outstanding bilateral concerns. Xi’s last visit to India was in October 2019 for the informal Modi-Xi summit in Mamallapuram. 

Beyond The Border

India-China relations have a much wider economic and strategic dimension. Bilateral trade remains substantial, even as both countries continue to deal with strategic mistrust and security concerns.

For India, the challenge is to pursue diplomatic engagement without diluting its position on border security. For China, rebuilding political confidence with New Delhi would require addressing the concerns that have emerged since 2020.

The August 25 talks are therefore unlikely to produce an immediate solution to the boundary dispute. Their larger importance lies in whether the two sides can keep communication steady, prevent fresh tensions and create enough political space for broader engagement.

With the BRICS Summit approaching, Doval’s Beijing visit could prove to be an important test of how far India-China relations have moved from confrontation towards managed engagement.

 A bipartisan proposal in the US Congress is seeking to redefine the United States' long-standing security relationship with Israel by replacing billions of dollars in annual military aid with a broader framework of defence, intelligence and technology cooperation.

The proposal comes at a time when public support for Israel has weakened, particularly among younger Americans, amid continued debate over the country's military operations in Gaza.

Aid Model May Be Replaced

According to reports, lawmakers are considering legislation that would gradually move away from the current system of providing at least $3.8 billion in annual US military assistance to Israel.

Instead, the proposal envisions legally mandated collaboration in areas such as defence technology, intelligence-sharing, weapons development, defence manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, missile defence and autonomous military systems.

Supporters argue that such an arrangement would create a more balanced partnership by allowing both countries to benefit directly from joint research, innovation and industrial cooperation rather than relying primarily on financial assistance.

New Pentagon Office Proposed

As part of the legislation, Congress is proposing the establishment of a dedicated office within the US Department of Defense to oversee strategic cooperation between Washington and Tel Aviv.

The office would coordinate joint development, testing and deployment of advanced military technologies while expanding defence-industrial collaboration.

The proposed legislation would also require the US President and the Director of National Intelligence to strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with Israel.

Support from Trump and Netanyahu

The proposal has received backing from US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The bill has already cleared the House of Representatives and is currently awaiting consideration in the Senate.

If approved, it would mark one of the most significant structural changes in US-Israel defence relations in decades.

Public Opinion Becoming More Critical

The congressional initiative comes despite growing public scepticism about US support for Israel.

Recent opinion surveys indicate that younger Americans have become increasingly critical of Israel following the conflict in Gaza that began in 2023.

According to a Pew Research Center survey, a majority of Americans aged 18 to 29 now hold an unfavourable opinion of Israel.

Another national survey reportedly found that a significant proportion of younger Republican voters also oppose continued military and economic assistance to Israel, reflecting a broader shift across sections of the American electorate.

Critics Warn of Risks

While supporters describe the proposal as a strategic evolution of the bilateral relationship, critics argue that it could further integrate Israel into the US defence and intelligence framework without sufficient safeguards.

They contend that Washington and Tel Aviv already maintain one of the world's closest military and intelligence partnerships, and expanding institutional cooperation could complicate future policy decisions.

Analysts also note that the proposal arrives amid continuing political debate in the United States over military aid, Middle East policy and the humanitarian impact of the Gaza conflict.

The Senate's decision on the legislation is expected to determine whether the proposed shift from direct financial assistance to long-term strategic collaboration becomes the next phase of the US-Israel security partnership.

Thimphu: India and Bhutan have reviewed the progress of New Delhi-supported development projects in the Himalayan nation and signed a concessional Line of Credit agreement worth ₹4,000 crore, further strengthening their long-standing development partnership. The agreement was signed as senior officials from both countries met for the fifth India-Bhutan Development Cooperation Talks in Thimphu on Thursday. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Bhutanese Foreign Secretary Dasho Pema Lektup Dorji co-chaired the talks, which focused mainly on projects being implemented with Indian assistance under Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan. According to the Indian Embassy in Bhutan, both sides discussed the implementation and progress of development initiatives across a range of sectors.

The ₹4,000-crore concessional Line of Credit is one of the major outcomes of the latest round of discussions. The financial arrangement is expected to support Bhutan's development priorities as projects under its 13th Five-Year Plan move forward. India has traditionally been one of Bhutan's key development partners, and development cooperation remains an important part of bilateral relations. During the meeting, officials from the two countries took stock of ongoing India-supported projects and reviewed how they were progressing on the ground. The discussions covered projects across diverse sectors, though the information provided does not specify each individual project reviewed during the talks. Alongside the credit agreement, India and Bhutan also expanded their cooperation in the health sector, adding another area to the broader development partnership between the neighbouring countries.

The fifth Development Cooperation Talks provided both governments an opportunity to assess the implementation of commitments already made and discuss priorities under Bhutan's current Five-Year Plan. The talks come as India and Bhutan continue close engagement on economic and development issues, with New Delhi-backed projects forming an important part of Bhutan's infrastructure and development programmes. The latest ₹4,000-crore Line of Credit agreement adds a significant financial component to that cooperation. With senior officials reviewing projects directly and both countries expanding collaboration in areas such as health, the latest discussions signal continued emphasis on practical development initiatives. The two sides are expected to continue monitoring India-supported projects as Bhutan moves ahead with its 13th Five-Year Plan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent five-day visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand has marked a renewed strategic focus on India's Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific vision, signalling New Delhi's intent to deepen partnerships in the region amid rapidly evolving global geopolitical dynamics.

The visit, held from July 6 to July 11, came after a series of engagements in Europe, West Asia and the Indian Ocean, highlighting the government's effort to balance India's diplomatic outreach across multiple strategic theatres.

Renewed Focus on the Indo-Pacific

The East Asia tour followed Prime Minister Modi's visit to Malaysia earlier this year and Japanese Prime Minister's visit to India in early July, creating momentum for stronger cooperation with key Indo-Pacific partners.

The three-nation visit was among the longest overseas engagements undertaken by the Prime Minister in recent years and focused on expanding cooperation in defence, trade, technology, maritime security and regional connectivity.

Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Auckland, Modi described the visit as historic, noting that it was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades.

Global Context Shapes India's Strategy

The renewed emphasis on the Indo-Pacific comes against the backdrop of significant geopolitical changes over the past few years.

The COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Gaza crisis and tensions in the Gulf region have reshaped global strategic priorities. At the same time, shifts in United States foreign policy and Washington's evolving approach towards China have prompted countries across Asia to reassess their regional security and economic strategies.

Growing concerns over the security of critical maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca, have further reinforced the importance of diversified partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

Defence and Economic Cooperation in Focus

India's engagements with Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand placed significant emphasis on strengthening defence cooperation, maritime security, resilient supply chains and economic collaboration.

The tour reflected New Delhi's broader objective of working closely with like-minded democracies to promote a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific while expanding investment, technology partnerships and people-to-people ties.

Officials view stronger regional cooperation as essential to ensuring stability across one of the world's most strategically significant maritime regions.

Act East Policy Continues to Evolve

Launched more than a decade ago, India's Act East Policy has gradually expanded beyond economic engagement to include strategic, security and connectivity initiatives across Southeast Asia, East Asia and the Pacific.

The latest diplomatic outreach indicates that the Indo-Pacific remains central to India's foreign policy despite competing global crises, with New Delhi seeking to strengthen its role as a key regional stakeholder through sustained diplomatic and strategic engagement.

Analysts believe the visit reflects India's continued effort to balance economic interests, regional security concerns and strategic partnerships in an increasingly complex international environment.

India has stepped up its strategic engagement across the Indo-Pacific by deepening partnerships with South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, signalling a broader effort to strengthen regional cooperation, maritime security and resilient supply chains. The latest diplomatic outreach, spanning April to July, reflects New Delhi’s evolving Indo-Pacific strategy built around what analysts describe as a modern interpretation of Kautilya’s Mandala theory.

The diplomatic momentum included high-level bilateral engagements with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, followed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s multi-nation tour of Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. Together, these visits underline India’s focus on building a network of strategic partnerships with like-minded maritime democracies amid growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Expanding the Indo-Pacific Vision

India’s approach seeks to reinforce cooperation through initiatives such as the Act East Policy, the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the MAHASAGAR vision. Rather than forming an exclusive military bloc, New Delhi aims to promote a rules-based, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific while expanding its strategic and economic space.

The strategy comes at a time when China’s growing regional influence has complicated India's neighbourhood dynamics, prompting New Delhi to strengthen ties with countries across the wider maritime region.

Indonesia Emerges as a Key Maritime Partner

Indonesia featured prominently during Prime Minister Modi’s recent diplomatic tour. Recognised as a strategic gateway between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Indonesia controls vital maritime routes through the Malacca, Sunda and Lombok Straits.

During the visit, India and Indonesia signed multiple agreements covering defence, maritime cooperation and trade. Indonesia agreed to acquire BrahMos cruise missiles and became the first international customer for India’s Astra Mk-1 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile system.

The two countries also expanded cooperation between their maritime agencies, strengthened information-sharing mechanisms and explored collaboration in developing Indonesia’s Sabang Port, located near one of the world's busiest shipping corridors.

Economic cooperation also advanced through agreements on rare-earth supply chains, steel manufacturing partnerships, digital payment connectivity and local currency settlement mechanisms.

Australia and New Zealand Deepen Strategic Cooperation

In Australia, the two countries concluded a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, alongside a Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap and agreements covering coast guard coordination and civil nuclear cooperation.

The partnership is expected to enhance defence interoperability, maritime surveillance and long-term energy cooperation, including Australian uranium exports to India.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to New Zealand, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades, resulted in the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Both nations adopted a Roadmap to 2030 and agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade over the coming years.

The discussions also covered logistics, hydrography, maritime mapping and broader regional cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.

Japan and South Korea Reinforce Economic Security

Earlier diplomatic engagements with Japan and South Korea laid the foundation for the broader regional outreach.

India and Japan strengthened cooperation in defence technology, economic security, critical minerals and resilient supply chains. The two countries also agreed on their first defence co-development project involving naval communication systems.

Meanwhile, South Korea and India focused on expanding cooperation in advanced technologies, semiconductors and supply chain resilience, reflecting growing convergence on emerging economic and security priorities.

Strategic Balance in the Indo-Pacific

Analysts believe India’s expanding network of partnerships reflects an effort to create a balanced regional architecture rather than an alliance directed against any single country. By strengthening defence cooperation, promoting resilient supply chains and supporting freedom of navigation, India is seeking to reinforce stability across the Indo-Pacific.

The approach also supports greater diversification of trade, technology partnerships and maritime connectivity while encouraging cooperation among countries that share similar interests in maintaining an open and rules-based regional order.

As geopolitical competition intensifies across the Indo-Pacific, New Delhi’s recent diplomatic engagements indicate a long-term strategy centred on strategic partnerships, economic resilience and maritime cooperation, positioning India as an increasingly influential stakeholder in the region’s evolving security and economic landscape.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday underlined the deepening ties between India and New Zealand, describing the relationship as one built on shared values, mutual trust and people-to-people connections, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Auckland during the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in four decades.

The visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with both nations elevating their engagement to a Strategic Partnership, signing multiple agreements and setting an ambitious target to double bilateral trade to around ₹35,000 crore by 2030.

Speaking before members of the Indian community, Modi blended personal memories with a broader vision for future cooperation, stressing that India's foreign policy values goodwill and public welfare over the size of any nation's population.

A Personal Story from Three Decades Ago

Recalling his first visit to New Zealand nearly 25 to 30 years ago, long before he assumed public office, Modi shared an emotional anecdote about a muffler gifted to him during that trip.

Holding up the same muffler while addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said he had preserved it for decades and continued to wear it, describing it as a symbol of the affection and warmth extended by the people of New Zealand.

He said such gestures reflected the strength of human relationships and demonstrated that India values the spirit of friendship above all else.

Strategic Partnership Enters New Phase

Earlier in the day, Modi held bilateral talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland.

The two leaders announced 18 major decisions and signed 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering sectors including defence, trade, education, agriculture, sports, science, technology, disaster management and maritime cooperation.

The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation across the Indo-Pacific and expanding economic engagement through the implementation of the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

Focus on Trade, Technology and Innovation

Highlighting future opportunities, Modi said India and New Zealand should deepen collaboration in emerging sectors including space technology, digital innovation, renewable energy and sports.

Describing the present as "the era of collaboration," he said the two countries possess complementary strengths that can generate long-term economic growth and technological advancement.

The Prime Minister noted that New Zealand-based companies have already partnered with India's space programme and said cooperation in advanced technology reflects the shared aspirations of both nations.

He also called for stronger collaboration in sports, particularly rugby, saying India could benefit from New Zealand's expertise through coaches, trainers and technical specialists.

Praise for Indian Diaspora

Modi praised the Indian community in New Zealand for serving as a bridge between the two countries.

He said that although members of the diaspora live thousands of kilometres away from India, their emotional connection with their homeland remains intact.

According to the Prime Minister, the contributions of people of Indian origin have strengthened New Zealand's economy, society and cultural diversity while simultaneously reinforcing bilateral ties.

He added that New Zealand's leadership consistently acknowledges the positive role played by the Indian community in the country's development.

Learning from New Zealand

The Prime Minister also highlighted New Zealand's achievements in public welfare, women's empowerment and agricultural development, saying India continues to draw inspiration from the country's progress.

He noted that New Zealand was the first nation to grant women the right to vote and said India is also expanding opportunities for women across multiple sectors while pursuing balanced economic and social development.

Modi emphasised that India's growth story combines modern innovation with the preservation of its civilisational heritage, allowing the country to evolve while maintaining its cultural identity.

Strengthening Long-Term Bilateral Relations

The visit concluded with both countries expressing confidence that the newly announced Strategic Partnership will open fresh avenues for cooperation in trade, investment, education, security and people-to-people exchanges.

Modi assured members of the Indian diaspora that high-level engagement between the two nations would become more frequent, saying they would not have to wait another four decades for the next visit by an Indian Prime Minister.

The Auckland visit capped Modi's three-nation tour and reinforced India's growing engagement with partners across the Indo-Pacific region, signalling a renewed commitment to expanding strategic and economic cooperation with New Zealand.

In his address, Modi said India’s approach to global engagement is guided by development and cooperation rather than expansionism. He asserted that the country’s vision is rooted in the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and reflected in its engagement with the international community.

The Prime Minister began his speech by expressing gratitude to the Indonesian Parliament, government and people for the warm welcome extended to him during his visit. Referring to himself as a representative of 1.4 billion Indians and a citizen of what he described as the “mother of democracy,” Modi said he had brought with him the goodwill and aspirations of the people of India.

He noted that the reception he received from Indonesian citizens, including young people, women and community groups, had made the occasion particularly memorable. Modi also referred to being conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honour during the visit, describing it as a tribute not only to him personally but also to the people of India and the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Calling the recognition a symbol of growing bilateral ties, Modi said it reflected the mutual respect, shared democratic traditions and strong people-to-people connections that have shaped relations between New Delhi and Jakarta over decades.

A significant part of the Prime Minister’s speech focused on India’s development-oriented worldview. He said India believes in progress through cooperation and inclusive growth rather than territorial expansion.

“India follows the path of development, not expansionism,” Modi said, adding that the philosophy of collective growth and shared prosperity continues to guide the country’s domestic and international policies.

The remarks come at a time when geopolitical developments across the Indo-Pacific region have intensified discussions around strategic partnerships, regional stability and economic cooperation. While Modi did not refer to any country directly, his comments on development and cooperation were viewed as an affirmation of India’s broader foreign policy approach.

Highlighting the strategic importance of India-Indonesia relations, the Prime Minister pointed out that although the capitals of the two countries are separated by thousands of kilometres, their maritime boundaries are much closer. He said the sea has historically acted as a bridge connecting the peoples of India and Indonesia rather than creating divisions between them.

Modi described the maritime relationship as a foundation for future cooperation in trade, connectivity, security and economic growth. Both countries have increasingly focused on strengthening collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, where maritime routes play a crucial role in global commerce.

The Prime Minister also underscored the deep cultural links shared by the two nations. He said India and Indonesia are connected through centuries of civilisational exchanges, with epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata continuing to hold cultural significance across both societies.

He referred to the legacy of Nalanda and iconic Indonesian monuments such as Borobudur and Prambanan as enduring symbols of the historical and cultural bonds that unite the two countries.

India and Indonesia have steadily expanded cooperation in areas including trade, defence, maritime security, digital technology and education in recent years. Modi’s address to the Indonesian Parliament is being seen as another step towards deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two democracies and reinforcing their role in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun his first official visit to Ghana, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in nearly three decades. The Ghana visit is the opening leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening India's engagement with the Global South and expanding strategic partnerships across Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. (Ministry of External Affairs)

The Prime Minister's visit is expected to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, defence, digital technology, healthcare, education and energy. During his stay in Accra, Modi is scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama and review the full spectrum of India-Ghana relations. (Ministry of External Affairs)

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit to deepen cooperation in key sectors. The two countries are also expected to discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest, including economic development, maritime security and South-South cooperation. (Ministry of External Affairs)

The visit carries added significance as it is the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana since 1995. Officials believe it reflects India's growing focus on strengthening ties with African nations through development partnerships, capacity building and increased economic engagement. (Ministry of External Affairs)

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi is also expected to address the Parliament of Ghana, highlighting the democratic values shared by both countries and outlining India's vision for stronger cooperation with Africa. The two sides are likely to discuss ways to boost business collaboration and promote greater people-to-people exchanges. (Ministry of External Affairs)

After concluding his engagements in Ghana, the Prime Minister will continue his diplomatic tour with visits to Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia. The multi-nation visit includes participation in the BRICS Summit in Brazil and several bilateral meetings with world leaders. (Facebook)

Officials said the tour is intended to reinforce India's strategic partnerships across multiple regions while expanding cooperation in trade, technology, infrastructure, defence and sustainable development. The visit is also expected to strengthen India's outreach to developing nations and further its diplomatic and economic interests on the global stage. (Ministry of External Affairs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his landmark three-day visit to Seychelles on Monday after holding a series of high-level engagements aimed at deepening bilateral ties. Before departing for New Delhi, the Prime Minister met members of the Indian community in Victoria, offered prayers at the Arul Mihu Navashakti Vinayagar Temple, and paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Peace Park.

During his interaction with the Indian diaspora, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the community's contribution to strengthening India-Seychelles relations. He also posed for photographs with community members before leaving for India, bringing to a close a visit marked by significant diplomatic, economic, and strategic outcomes.

The visit assumed special significance as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles, as well as the island nation's Golden Jubilee of Independence. Prime Minister Modi attended the National Day celebrations as the chief guest, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to participate in Seychelles' Independence Day celebrations.

One of the major highlights of the visit was the announcement of 19 agreements and development initiatives covering a wide range of sectors. The two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in cyber security, artificial intelligence, healthcare, education, agriculture, maritime security, space technology and capacity building.

India also announced the launch of its Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based digital payment system in Seychelles, marking another step in expanding India's digital public infrastructure globally. In addition, New Delhi extended a ₹1,250 crore Line of Credit to support Seychelles' infrastructure and development priorities.

Further reinforcing bilateral cooperation, India handed over a Fast Patrol Vessel to Seychelles to enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities. The assistance package also included 10 utility vehicles, five boats, six ambulances, 500 metric tonnes of rice and 8,500 metric tonnes of cement. These initiatives are expected to strengthen Seychelles' disaster response, transportation and maritime security infrastructure.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi participated in the Golden Jubilee National Day parade, where contingents of the Assam Rifles, the Indian Navy and the Indian Navy's marching band took part alongside Seychelles' security forces. Indian naval ships INS Tarkash and INS Ikshak also arrived at Port Victoria to mark the historic occasion, reflecting the growing maritime partnership between the two nations.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with Seychelles' highest civilian honour, the Guardian of the Blue Horizon, in recognition of his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. With this recognition, he has now received the highest civilian honours from 34 countries.

The Prime Minister also planted a sapling of the rare Coco de Mer tree, a species found naturally only in Seychelles. Known for producing the world's largest seed, the iconic tree symbolises the island nation's unique biodiversity and long-standing environmental heritage.

India's announcement of a broader economic assistance package worth approximately 175 million US dollars (around ₹1,651 crore), along with new agreements including an extradition treaty and expanded cooperation in strategic sectors, further underlined New Delhi's commitment to its maritime partner in the Indian Ocean.

The visit reaffirmed India's vision of strengthening partnerships with island nations under its Indo-Pacific strategy while expanding cooperation in trade, technology, connectivity, defence and sustainable development. Analysts believe the agreements signed during the visit will further elevate India-Seychelles relations and contribute to regional security and economic growth in the Indian Ocean.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman arrived in China on Monday, marking the second leg of his first overseas tour since taking office in February. The visit is being closely watched across South Asia as Dhaka seeks to deepen economic and strategic engagement with Beijing while reshaping its foreign policy priorities.

Rahman landed in the Chinese city of Dalian after concluding a two-day official visit to Malaysia, where he held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements. Upon arrival in China, he was welcomed by senior Chinese and Bangladeshi officials, including Liaoning Province Vice Governor Bai Ying, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, and Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md. Nazmul Islam.

The Bangladeshi Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in the 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, commonly known as the Summer Davos Forum, organized by the World Economic Forum. During the event, Rahman is expected to address a session on climate leadership and hold meetings with global business executives, policymakers, and international organizations.

According to Bangladeshi officials, the primary focus of the visit will be strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, and development financing. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam has indicated that the two countries are working toward signing between 15 and 17 bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding during the visit.

Among the key issues expected to feature in discussions is the long-pending Teesta River project, which has significant implications for regional development and water management. Rahman is also scheduled to travel to Beijing, where he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on June 26. The meeting is expected to review the full spectrum of Bangladesh-China relations and explore opportunities for deeper strategic cooperation.

The visit comes at a time when China remains one of Bangladesh's largest trading partners and development financiers. Recently, Dhaka approved a 41.89 billion taka infrastructure project linked to the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chittagong, supported through concessional Chinese financing. Officials view such projects as critical to boosting industrial growth, exports, and employment opportunities.

Analysts say the visit carries significance beyond economics. Bangladesh and China are celebrating what both sides describe as the "Golden 50 Years" of diplomatic relations, and the current engagement is being presented as the beginning of a new phase in bilateral cooperation.

The diplomatic outreach has also attracted attention because Rahman chose Malaysia and China for his first official foreign visits after becoming Prime Minister, despite receiving an early invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Regional observers believe the move reflects Dhaka's efforts to diversify partnerships while maintaining a balanced approach toward major powers.

Officials from both countries expect the visit to produce concrete outcomes in investment, infrastructure, climate cooperation, and trade. The agreements expected during the trip could shape the trajectory of Bangladesh-China relations for years to come and provide fresh momentum to one of South Asia's most important bilateral partnerships.

A renewed diplomatic dispute between Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) came to the forefront during the 16th Meeting of Heads of Security Agencies and National Security Advisers of BRICS countries in New Delhi. Iranian officials accused the UAE of facilitating US military operations against Iran, reviving tensions that had previously emerged during a BRICS foreign ministers' gathering earlier this year.

The allegations were made by Dr. Ghadir Nezamipour, Deputy Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, during the high-level security meeting. According to statements later shared by the Iranian Embassy in India, Nezamipour rejected accusations made by the UAE delegation and instead blamed the United States and Israel for escalating regional instability.

The remarks come despite recent efforts to ease tensions in West Asia following a ceasefire agreement. Analysts view the exchange as evidence that underlying disputes between Tehran and Abu Dhabi remain unresolved and continue to influence diplomatic interactions in international forums.

According to Iranian officials, the Strait of Hormuz crisis and recent military confrontations were triggered by actions undertaken by the United States and Israel. Nezamipour claimed that some attacks targeting Iran had been launched from facilities located within the UAE, a charge that Abu Dhabi has consistently denied.

Allegations Over Military Facilities

Addressing the gathering, the Iranian official alleged that UAE territory had been used as a platform for operations targeting Iranian civilian infrastructure. He claimed that schools, hospitals and other non-military facilities were among the locations affected by the attacks.

Iran also criticized what it described as the UAE’s failure to condemn military actions against Iran. Nezamipour urged the Emirati leadership to focus on regional stability and cooperation rather than what he termed “adventurism” and “propaganda.”

To reinforce Iran’s position, the delegation reportedly displayed photographs of students from Minab who, according to Tehran, were killed during the initial phase of the conflict.

Dispute Continues

The latest exchange follows a similar confrontation during a BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting held in New Delhi in May. At that event, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the UAE of being directly involved in military activities against Iran and questioned whether close security ties with the United States and Israel could guarantee regional stability.

Those remarks intensified diplomatic friction between the two countries, particularly after reports surfaced alleging Emirati involvement in operations targeting Iranian interests.

The UAE has repeatedly rejected accusations that it played any role in attacks against Iran. Emirati officials have maintained that their country supports regional dialogue and de-escalation efforts.

Officials familiar with regional developments say the dispute reflects broader geopolitical rivalries in West Asia, where security concerns, maritime routes and strategic alliances continue to shape diplomatic relations.

The latest developments at the BRICS security meeting highlight how regional conflicts are increasingly influencing discussions within multilateral organizations. While BRICS members have often emphasized cooperation and dialogue, disagreements among participating countries continue to emerge on issues related to security and foreign policy.

Observers believe that unless direct diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Abu Dhabi resumes, such confrontations may continue to surface at international forums. For now, the accusations exchanged in New Delhi underscore the persistent mistrust between the two regional powers and the challenges facing efforts to achieve long-term stability in West Asia.