BILATERAL RIGHTS
US passes resolution seeking probe into Pak elections; Islamabad terms it "incomplete understanding"
The US House of Representatives passed a bipartisan resolution supporting democracy and human rights in Pakistan, urging a "thorough and independent investigation" into claims of interference in Pakistan's 2024 elections. Passed with 98% support, HR 901 emphasizes upholding democratic values amidst economic and security challenges. It condemns efforts to suppress democratic participation, such as harassment and internet restrictions.
PM Modi plans Moscow visit in July 2nd week for next edition of annual summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi plans to visit Moscow from July 7-10 for a bilateral annual summit aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between India and Russia. This will be Modi's first visit to Russia since 2019, as prior visits were hindered by the pandemic and the Ukraine war. The visit, which follows Modi's re-election, will focus on energy, defense, connectivity, and natural resources. The trip will also allow Modi to discuss the Ukraine conflict and emphasize dialogue and diplomacy, reflecting India's neutral stance on the issue.
Taiwan must 'step up defences' amid China's coercive tactics: Hsiao Bi-khim
Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim of Taiwan emphasized the need to strengthen Taiwan's defenses in response to China's coercive tactics and refusal to renounce the use of force against Taiwan. She criticized Beijing for being the provocateur in cross-strait relations and highlighted Taiwan's commitment to dialogue based on parity and respect. Hsiao also discussed Taiwan's challenges, including threats from authoritarian regimes and the importance of democracy, peace, and prosperity. She outlined President Lai Ching-te's Four Pillars of Peace, focusing on defense, economic resilience, international partnerships, and stable cross-strait relations.
Trai suggests infrastructure status, single-window clearance for broadcasting sector
In July 2023, the ministry of information and broadcasting had urged Trai to provide its inputs for the formulation of the NBP. The Trai had issued a consultation paper on NBP seeking stakeholder comments in April. While suggesting steps to grow the TV and radio footprint in the country, the regulator has also asked the MIB to establish a credible audience measurement system for TV, radio, and OTT.
India shuns China's calls to resume passenger flights after 4 years
China is urging India to resume direct passenger flights after a four-year hiatus, but India resists due to ongoing border tensions. The 2020 Himalayan clash severely strained relations, leading India to block Chinese investments and apps. While China seeks flight resumption for economic recovery, India demands border peace first.
iCET on the right path
US NSA Jake Sullivan's visit to Delhi, the first since India's new NDA government took office, focused on advancing the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET). Sullivan and Indian counterpart Ajit Doval chaired the iCET meeting, setting the agenda for deeper collaboration in sectors like defence, space, semiconductors, AI, and quantum computing.
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India looks to sign FTA after UK elections, 8th round of talks soon
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to be signed after the UK's elections on July 4. So far, 13 negotiation rounds have been completed, focusing on reducing tariffs and addressing regulatory concerns. Both sides aim to finalize the FTA to enhance bilateral trade, currently valued at GBP 38.1 billion annually.
China ready to improve bilateral ties with India and work on border dispute
India-China border issue: Following Prime Minister Modi's third-term victory, China expressed its readiness to work with India to improve bilateral relations and manage their border issues appropriately. This comes in the wake of ongoing tensions and border clashes since 2020. India's Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, highlighted resolving these border issues as a key focus under Modi's new administration.
Modi at G7 Summit under Italian Presidency: Consolidating strategic partnership
Several ministers from Italy visited India in 2023, for G20 related meetings and held bilateral meetings on the sidelines including the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs & trade, Finance, Agriculture, Education and Culture Ministers. The Speaker and President of the Italian Senate and Chamber of Deputies participated in the P20 meeting last year. The Indian Foreign, Defence and Commerce & Industry Minister visited Italy last year.
Premier Li congratulates PM Modi on new term, says China willing to develop ties in 'right direction'
Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated PM Narendra Modi on his re-election, expressing willingness to enhance bilateral relations with Beijing for stability and positive energy in the region and the world.
India's aviation mkt growth needs to be matched with capacity; open for partnerships: Emirates CCO
On whether Emirates is looking for partners in India, Kazim said it is open to any such future engagements if there is an appetite in an Indian airline for that sort of dialogue and engagement.
Government's protectionist move divides aviation industry
India's aviation industry is divided over the policy to freeze flying rights to Middle East nations, with Air India CEO Campbell Wilson advocating for limiting market access for foreign carriers.
US Pentagon chief visits Cambodia to boost ties with China ally
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visited Cambodia to reset ties with China ally, addressing concerns over China's influence in the region.
Very strong relations with India; co-producing armored vehicles: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Shangri La Dialogue
At the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the strong US-India relationship. He talked about advancements in co-producing armoured vehicles and fighter jet engines. He emphasised the shared values between the two nations and predicted continued progress and momentum in the partnership. The strong ties are important for the two countries amid trouble in the Indo-Pacific region.
Malaysia Airlines bets big on Indian non-metro cities
Malaysia Airlines is facing challenges in expanding its operations in India due to a shortage of flying rights. The airline has exhausted its rights to Indian metros and is now planning to increase frequency from Amritsar to seven flights per week from August. The airline has also started flights from Trivandrum and Ahmedabad.
View: Tackling FTA attractions
India has resumed free trade negotiations with trading partners after withdrawing from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations in 2019. The process has been restarted with the signing of India-Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) in March 2021, followed by India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) in 2022, and India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) pact in February this year.
"Not in favour of CPEC": India reiterates its stance on PoJK
MEA spokesperson reaffirms India's claim on Jammu and Kashmir, opposes CPEC. Pakistan and China strengthen CPEC cooperation. Baloch activist raises human rights concerns at UN regarding CPEC impact on Balochistan.
GoAir 'temporarily' loses rights and slots to operate international flights to IndiGo and other companies
GoAir has temporarily lost its slots and foreign bilateral rights to other airlines like Air India and IndiGo amidst diminishing chances of revival. In order for airlines from one country to operate international flights to another country, a bilateral air services agreement must be negotiated and signed between the two sides. This agreement dictates the number of flights or seats per week that can be permitted to fly from one country to the other.
Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan to resume trilateral meeting to revive cooperation
South Korea, China, and Japan are meeting for their first trilateral summit in over four years, aiming to improve regional relations. While no major breakthroughs are expected, the resumption of these high-level talks is seen as a positive step. Key issues discussed include North Korea's nuclear ambitions, Taiwan, and the South China Sea. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held bilateral meetings ahead of the summit. The leaders will focus on cooperation in trade, climate change, technology, and disaster response.
On National Day, Israel Prez Isaac Herzog commends PM Modi's support after Hamas attacks
Israeli President Isaac Herzog praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support following the October 7 Hamas attacks. Speaking during Israel's National Day celebrations in New Delhi, Herzog highlighted the strong democratic values and robust bilateral ties between Israel and India. Modi's quick condemnation of the attacks was noted as standing "on the right side of history." Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra reaffirmed India's zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and celebrated the growing India-Israel partnership, emphasizing collaboration in various sectors and the enduring bond between the two nations.
India, UK review implementation of 10-year roadmap
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra reviewed the India-UK 'Roadmap 2030' in London, enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, defence, security, science, and people-to-people exchanges. Meetings were held with Minister of State Lord Tariq Ahmad, MoS for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge, and NSA Sir Tim Barrow.
Hope there is resolution of remaining issues: Jaishankar on eastern Ladakh border row with China
As the eastern Ladakh military standoff continues, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hopes for resolution of remaining issues with China, emphasizing the importance of peace at the border for normal bilateral ties. Discussions on patrolling rights and abilities persist, with efforts focused on achieving peace and tranquillity in the region.
China ready to work with India to find mutually acceptable solutions to 'specific issues': Beijing's new envoy
China's new envoy Xu Feihong aims to resolve Ladakh standoff with India through dialogue, respecting concerns. Cooperation crucial for global stability, reflecting Xi Jinping's and Narendra Modi's emphasis on broader Sino-Indian ties beyond boundary disputes.
Antony Blinken meets with China's President Xi as US, China spar over bilateral and global issues
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Friday with Chinese President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese officials, stressing the importance of "responsibly managing" the differences between the United States and China as the two sides butted heads over a number of contentious bilateral, regional and global issues.
BIPAs vs FTAs: Balance of trade rests on finding an equitable equation
Both types of trade agreements have their merits and demerits. The government has to find the right mix to ensure investments that come into the country benefit the domestic economy in the long run.
PMO calls for improvement in text of bilateral funding treaties
The Prime Minister's Office has tasked the commerce and industry ministry with reviewing the bilateral investment treaty (BIT) template to bolster India's appeal as an investor-friendly destination. The ministry plans to consult experts to address concerns over investor-state dispute resolution, aiming to refine the BIT text to align with India's interests and international norms.
Pakistan Defence Minister optimistic of improving bilateral ties with New Delhi post-Lok Sabha elections
Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, expressed optimism for improved ties with India post its upcoming elections from April to June. Amid strained relations due to alleged terrorism support and territorial disputes, Asif hopes for a shift after India's elections. He also addressed Pakistan's relations with Afghanistan and ongoing efforts against terrorism.
UK, Oman trade agreements may figure in Commerce Ministry's 100-day agenda for new Govt: official
Talks between India and Australia to expand the scope of existing economic cooperation and trade agreement (ECTA) for a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA) are also progressing at a healthy rate, the official said.
UK, Oman trade agreements may figure in commerce ministry's 100-day agenda for new Govt: official
The exercise assumes significance as while chairing a Cabinet meeting on March 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked the ministers to meet secretaries and other officials of their respective ministries to discuss how the agenda for the first 100 days and the next five years can be better implemented.
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