India-South Korea defence cooperation is rapidly evolving beyond conventional weapons to innovation-driven partnership. Driven by high-level visits, it includes joint manufacturing (K9 Vajra-T), submarine collaboration (lithium-ion battery, AIP tech), aerospace (KF-21, FA-50), shipbuilding, and defence electronics. The proposed KIND-X accelerator aims to foster innovation. The partnership, grounded in shared security concerns and geopolitical stability, seeks to address emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific, including North Korea's nuclear capabilities, China's naval assertiveness, and South Korea's demographic challenges. It emphasizes moving beyond industrial ties to a broader strategic convergence for regional stability.
- India-South Korea defence cooperation is expanding into a multidimensional strategic partnership.
- Key areas of cooperation include joint manufacturing (K9 Vajra-T), submarine technology, aerospace, and shipbuilding.
- The proposed Korea-India Defence Accelerator (KIND-X) aims to boost innovation in defence.
The Centre recently hiked retail petroleum product prices, highlighting India's vulnerability due to inadequate strategic petroleum and gas reserves. Despite warnings since 2018 about high crude prices, India's public sector oil marketing companies have been bleeding. The country's import dependence, especially for crude oil, has increased, with reserves only sufficient for 20 days of consumption, compared to China's 900 million barrels. The article criticizes the government's failure to build adequate reserves and diversify sources, making India susceptible to global price shocks and geopolitical events like the Russia-Ukraine war.
- India's strategic petroleum and gas reserves are inadequate, making the country vulnerable to global price shocks.
- Public sector oil marketing companies have faced financial strain due to high crude prices and insufficient reserves.
- India's current reserves are only sufficient for about 20 days of consumption, significantly less than China's 900 million barrels.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Støre to upgrade bilateral ties to a "Green Strategic Partnership," aiming for $100 billion in investment and 10 million jobs in India. Discussions covered geopolitical conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, with Norway emphasizing rules-based order and dialogue, while India seeks alternative oil/gas supplies. The partnership leverages Norway's technology and capital with India's large market, focusing on green energy, food security, and new frontiers from Arctic to outer space. They also signed a Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement and initiated trilateral development cooperation for Global South countries, alongside MoUs in health, space, and digital public infrastructure.
- India and Norway are upgrading their bilateral relationship to a "Green Strategic Partnership" with a target of $100 billion in investment and 10 million jobs.
- Discussions included geopolitical issues like Ukraine and West Asia, with both leaders emphasizing a rules-based international order and democratic values.
- The partnership aims to combine Norway's advanced technology and capital with India's market for green energy, food security, and new frontiers.
The return of the Chola-era Anaimangalam copper plates from the Netherlands marks a significant event in India's efforts to repatriate invaluable artefacts. Presented to PM Modi by Dutch PM Rob Jetten, these 21 large and three small plates, known as Leiden copper plates, document Raja Raja Chola I's grant of land to a Buddha vihara and subsequent grants by Rajendra Chola I and Kulottunga Chola I. Indian archaeologists advocate for further repatriation efforts, citing the Velvikkudi copper plates from the British Museum as another key artefact. The plates provide crucial insights into Tamil history, culture, and the Chola dynasty's royal insignia.
- The Chola-era Anaimangalam copper plates have been repatriated from the Netherlands, marking a significant step in India's artefact recovery efforts.
- Known as Leiden copper plates, these 24 plates document land grants by Chola kings (Raja Raja Chola I, Rajendra Chola I, Kulottunga Chola I) to a Buddha vihara.
- Indian archaeologists are calling for further repatriation, specifically mentioning the Pandya ruler Parantaka Nedunchadaiyan's Velvikkudi copper plates from the British Museum.
India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, condemned attacks on commercial shipping, endangering civilian crew, and impeding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as 'unacceptable' at a UNECOSOC meeting. His remarks followed an attack on an India-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman. Harish emphasized that international law regarding freedom of navigation must be fully respected and highlighted India's approach to the energy and fertilizer crisis caused by the West Asia conflict, advocating for a combination of short-term, structural measures, and international cooperation.
- India condemned attacks on commercial shipping and impediments to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz as unacceptable at the UN.
- The statement was made by India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, at a UNECOSOC meeting.
- The remarks followed a recent attack on an India-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola disease outbreak in Congo and neighboring Uganda, caused by a rare Bundibugyo virus, a public health emergency of international concern. With over 300 suspected cases and 88 deaths, and a confirmed case in Congo's capital Kinshasa, the outbreak poses a risk of international spread. Ebola is highly contagious, transmitted via bodily fluids, and often fatal. The WHO emphasized the seriousness and need for a coordinated international response, though it advised against closing international borders. There are currently no approved therapeutics or vaccines for the Bundibugyo variant.
- The WHO declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern.
- The outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, a variant of Ebola for which no approved treatments or vaccines exist.
- Ebola is highly contagious and transmitted through bodily fluids, with over 300 suspected cases and 88 deaths reported.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway and the Nordic Summit aims to boost trade, energy cooperation, and discuss global conflicts. India seeks more investment from Norwegian pension funds and business-to-business MoUs in energy. The visit also includes the third Nordic-India summit with leaders from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, focusing on geopolitical issues, climate, and green sustainability. Discussions will cover the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Gaza conflict, and US-Israel-Iran tensions, all impacting the global economy. India also upgraded ties with the Netherlands, signing 17 pacts.
- Prime Minister Modi's visit to Norway and the Nordic Summit focuses on enhancing trade, energy cooperation, and addressing global conflicts.
- India aims to attract more investment from Norwegian pension funds and secure business-to-business MoUs in the energy sector.
- The Nordic-India summit involves leaders from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark, discussing geopolitical issues, climate, and sustainability.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Indian citizens to adopt austerity measures, including reducing fuel consumption, avoiding gold purchases, and buying Indian-made products, to help the economy and government finances. This push comes amidst a global energy crisis and rising Current Account Deficit (CAD), projected to grow to 2.5% of GDP. The war in West Asia has driven up oil and gold prices, increasing India's import bill and contributing to rupee depreciation. The government has also implemented measures like doubling import tax on gold and silver and restricting silver imports. Critics question the timing of these appeals, coming after state elections.
- PM Modi has called for public austerity measures to address economic challenges, including reducing fuel and gold imports.
- The initiatives aim to mitigate the impact of the global energy crisis and a rising Current Account Deficit (CAD).
- The CAD is projected to increase to 2.5% of GDP this financial year, up from 1.4% in late 2025.
India has rejected an award issued by the Court of Arbitration (CoA) at The Hague concerning maximum pondage at Indian hydroelectric projects on the Indus river system, reiterating that it does not recognize the tribunal as legitimately constituted. The External Affairs Ministry stated that any decision by the "illegally constituted CoA" is "null and void." India's decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance remains in force. The CoA, constituted in January 2023 at Pakistan's request, challenged India's Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects. India refused to participate, arguing technical questions fall under a Neutral Expert.
- India has rejected the Court of Arbitration's (CoA) award regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, citing the tribunal's illegitimate constitution.
- The award pertained to maximum pondage at Indian hydroelectric projects on the Indus river system.
- India maintains its stance that any decision by this CoA is "null and void" and its decision to hold the IWT in abeyance remains.
Chola-era Anaimangalam plates, previously held by Leiden University in the Netherlands, have been returned to India. The plates were presented during a ceremony in The Hague, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch PM Rob Jetten. This repatriation highlights efforts to bring back historical artifacts and cultural heritage to their country of origin, emphasizing the importance of preserving and acknowledging India's rich past. The return of these plates contributes to India's cultural heritage collection and strengthens international cooperation in cultural exchanges.
- Chola-era Anaimangalam plates have been repatriated to India from Leiden University in the Netherlands.
- The return ceremony was attended by the Prime Ministers of India and the Netherlands.
- This event underscores the ongoing global efforts to restore cultural artifacts to their countries of origin.
Africa's top public health agency confirmed a new Ebola outbreak in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. So far, 65 deaths have been recorded out of 246 suspected cases. Initial findings suggest the presence of a non-Zaire strain of the virus, with sequencing ongoing to further characterize it. This outbreak marks another public health challenge for the region, requiring immediate response and containment efforts to prevent wider spread. The confirmation of a new strain highlights the ongoing vigilance needed for viral surveillance and rapid diagnostic capabilities in affected areas.
- A new Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- The outbreak has resulted in 65 deaths out of 246 suspected cases.
- Initial findings indicate the presence of a non-Zaire strain of the Ebola virus.
The implementation of the India-U.K. Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), expected in May 2026, has encountered a late-stage hurdle due to new U.K. regulations on steel imports. The U.K. announced it would significantly cut tariff-free steel import volumes by 60% and double the tariff on above-quota imports to 50% from July 1, a measure not factored into the FTA negotiations. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal stated that both sides are working on a "creative solution" to address this "sticking point" and operationalize the CETA at an early date, highlighting the challenge posed by the unexpected policy change.
- The India-U.K. Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) faces a late-stage hurdle before implementation.
- The issue stems from new U.K. regulations on steel imports, which were not part of the original FTA negotiations.
- The U.K. plans to cut tariff-free steel import volumes by 60% and increase the above-quota tariff to 50% from July 1.
India and the UAE signed a framework defence cooperation agreement and pacts on building India's strategic petroleum reserves and LNG supplies during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's brief stopover in Abu Dhabi. PM Modi met UAE President Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MbZ) and condemned attacks on the UAE, praising its restraint. The Strategic Defence Cooperation Framework aims to strengthen collaboration in defence manufacturing, technology, equipment, and industrial cooperation, including maritime security and cyber-defence. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company signed MoUs for crude oil storage in India and potential storage facilities in UAE, boosting India's energy security.
- India and the UAE signed a framework defence cooperation agreement and energy pacts during PM Modi's visit to Abu Dhabi.
- The defence agreement focuses on collaboration in manufacturing, technology, equipment, and industrial cooperation, including maritime security and cyber-defence.
- Energy pacts include MoUs with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company for crude oil storage in India and potential storage facilities in UAE.
The BRICS Foreign Ministers' meeting reaffirmed the grouping's call for an "independent and viable state of Palestine" within the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. While there was consensus on Palestinian statehood, other issues led to disagreements, preventing a Joint Statement and resulting in a 'Chair's Statement and Outcome Document'. Significant disagreements arose between the UAE and Iran, particularly concerning the Gaza Strip and the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi blamed a BRICS member (implied to be UAE) for blocking anti-Israel positions and providing help to the U.S. and Israel.
- BRICS Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their support for an independent and viable state of Palestine, based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
- The meeting did not issue a Joint Statement due to significant disagreements among members on various issues, particularly between the UAE and Iran.
- Iran's Foreign Minister criticized an unnamed BRICS member for allegedly blocking anti-Israel positions and aiding the U.S. and Israel.
The article analyzes the evolving global trade landscape, characterized by geopolitical shifts, supply chain disruptions, and the rise of economic statecraft. It highlights how trade is increasingly influenced by national security concerns and political stability, moving beyond purely economic considerations. The author discusses the fragmentation of global trade into blocs and the weaponization of economic tools. India's strategy, termed 'economic statecraft 2.0', aims to leverage its economic power for strategic objectives, focusing on resilient supply chains, diversified markets, and technological self-reliance. The piece emphasizes the need for India to adapt to this new global order, balancing economic growth with strategic autonomy.
- Global trade is undergoing significant transformation, driven by geopolitical shifts and national security concerns.
- Supply chains are becoming more localized and resilient, moving away from hyper-globalization.
- Economic statecraft involves using economic tools for strategic and political objectives, leading to trade fragmentation and weaponization.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged a unified global effort to combat the drug menace, emphasizing the need for a common legal framework. Speaking at the R.N. Kao Memorial Lecture, he stressed that the fight against drugs must transcend geopolitical differences and national interests. Shah called for simultaneous action against narco-networks and narco-terror states, advocating for uniform laws on prohibited substances, standardized punishments, extradition of drug kingpins, and intelligence sharing. He warned that without immediate joint efforts, the world would face irreversible harm in 10 years and set a goal for a 'Drug Free India' by 2047.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah advocated for a unified global effort and common legal framework to combat the drug menace.
- He stressed that the fight against drugs should rise above geopolitical differences and individual national interests.
- Shah called for simultaneous action against both narco-networks and narco-terror states.
India's merchandise exports increased by nearly 14% to $43.6 billion in April 2026, despite significant trade headwinds from the West Asia crisis. This growth is attributed to rising prices and Indian exporters' efforts to diversify markets, according to Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal. The overall trade deficit, including merchandise and services, fell 30% to $7.8 billion in April 2026. Exports to countries like Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Bangladesh, and Vietnam saw strong growth, while exports to the West Asia region declined by 28%. Merchandise imports from West Asia also fell by 31.6%.
- India's merchandise exports recorded a significant increase in April 2026, reaching $43.6 billion.
- The growth occurred despite challenges posed by the West Asia crisis, driven by price increases and market diversification.
- The overall trade deficit for April 2026, combining merchandise and services, decreased by 30% to $7.8 billion.
U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his China visit, stating that both nations agreed on "fantastic trade deals" and "settled a lot of problems." Chinese President Xi Jinping affirmed important common understandings on stable economic and trade ties, expanding cooperation, and addressing mutual concerns. Trump referred to the two countries as "G2," a term not officially endorsed by China or favored by other major powers like India. The visit included a ceremonial reception and private talks, with agreements on China purchasing 200 Boeing aircraft and increasing soybean imports, and resuming U.S. beef imports.
- U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his visit to China, announcing significant progress on trade and problem resolution.
- Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted common understandings on economic stability and expanded cooperation.
- Trump's use of the term "G2" for the U.S. and China is not officially endorsed by Beijing and is viewed unfavorably by other major powers.
The ongoing conflict in Iran presents significant challenges to India's strategic autonomy and economic stability. India, heavily reliant on oil imports, faces increased energy costs and supply chain disruptions. The editorial highlights India's historical non-alignment but notes its current balancing act between Western allies and traditional partners like Iran and Russia. The conflict also impacts India's trade routes, particularly the INSTC, and its ability to maintain independent foreign policy decisions. The article suggests that India's strategic autonomy is being tested by the need to navigate complex geopolitical pressures while safeguarding its economic interests.
- The Iran war significantly impacts India's strategic autonomy and economic interests, particularly regarding energy security.
- India faces the challenge of balancing its relationships with Western allies and traditional partners like Iran and Russia amidst the conflict.
- The conflict disrupts crucial trade routes, such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), affecting India's economic connectivity.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized "unilateral coercive measures and sanctions" as inconsistent with international law, particularly as the U.S. waiver on Russian oil purchases for India neared its May 16 expiry. He stated that such measures disproportionately affect developing countries and cannot substitute dialogue. India's oil imports from Russia surged in May, indicating refiners' rush to secure supplies amid West Asia blockades. Despite maintaining a policy against non-UN sanctions, India has often complied with U.S. sanctions for commercial reasons. Jaishankar emphasized that India's policy is guided by the interests of its 1.4 billion citizens.
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned "unilateral coercive measures and sanctions" as being against international law.
- The criticism comes as the U.S. waiver allowing India to purchase Russian oil was set to expire on May 16.
- India's oil imports from Russia significantly increased in May, reflecting efforts to secure stable supplies amidst geopolitical tensions.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, at the BRICS ministerial meeting, reiterated India's traditional support for a "two-state solution" to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. He also called for an end to "risks to maritime traffic, and disruptions to energy infrastructure" in the Gulf region, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts. Jaishankar highlighted the grave humanitarian implications of the Gaza conflict and stressed the importance of a sustained ceasefire and credible path to peace. He also criticized "unilateral coercive measures and sanctions" as inconsistent with international law and disproportionately affecting developing countries.
- India reaffirmed its traditional stance supporting a "two-state solution" for the Israel-Palestinian conflict at the BRICS meeting.
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called for an end to maritime and energy infrastructure disruptions in the Gulf region.
- He emphasized the urgent need for a sustained ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza due to grave humanitarian implications.
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing to discuss trade ties, Taiwan, and the future of their increasingly contested relationship. While an uneasy truce was reached, both sides merely underlined their respective positions on flashpoint issues. Xi warned that relations could descend to "clashes and conflicts" if the Taiwan question was not managed properly, while the US readout made no mention of Taiwan. Both leaders agreed on keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. The visit, marked by a grand welcome, could yield a temporary truce amidst ongoing trade and technology disputes.
- US and Chinese leaders met in Beijing to address contentious issues like trade, Taiwan, and the Strait of Hormuz.
- Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the critical importance of proper management of the Taiwan question to avoid conflict.
- The US and China agreed on the necessity of maintaining open access and free flow of energy through the Strait of Hormuz.
Former Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti emphasized the necessity for India to formulate a comprehensive regional policy for West Asia, moving beyond a country-specific approach. He highlighted the region's critical importance for India's energy security, trade, and the welfare of its diaspora. Tirumurti advocated for a "multi-vector" and "multi-aligned" foreign policy, allowing India to engage with all regional players without taking sides, especially amidst the ongoing West Asia crisis. He stressed that India's approach should prioritize its own strategic autonomy and national interests, leveraging its historical ties and economic influence to contribute to regional stability and address challenges like terrorism and maritime security.
- Former Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti urged India to develop a comprehensive regional policy for West Asia, rather than a country-specific one.
- He emphasized the region's vital importance for India's energy security, trade, and the welfare of its diaspora.
- India should adopt a "multi-vector" and "multi-aligned" foreign policy, engaging with all regional players without bias.
Experts at a discussion on "Economic Disruptions in Sri Lanka" urged India to learn from Sri Lanka's experience with fertilizer supply chain disruptions. Dr. Ramya S. Moorthy highlighted how the sudden shift to organic farming, coupled with global supply chain issues, led to a severe food crisis in Sri Lanka. The panel emphasized the need for India to diversify its fertilizer sources, invest in domestic production, and maintain strategic reserves to ensure food security. They also discussed the broader implications of geopolitical events on supply chains and the importance of prudent management of external sectors to avoid similar crises, especially concerning essential imports like crude oil and fertilizers.
- Experts advised India to learn from Sri Lanka's fertilizer crisis to bolster its own supply chain resilience.
- Sri Lanka's sudden shift to organic farming and global supply chain disruptions caused a severe food crisis.
- India should diversify fertilizer sources, boost domestic production, and maintain strategic reserves for food security.