Asianet Newsable

INS Sunayna CO's Bangladesh visit: Meets port officials, pays homage

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 21:00:30 +0530

Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna, Commander Siddharth Chaudhary on Saturday called on Commodore Ahamed Amin Abdullah BSP, PSC, Officiating Chairman Chattogram Port Authority. As per Indian High Commission in Bangladesh, the Commanding Officer had a fruitful discussion on issues of mutual interest.

In a post on X, the High Commission stated, "Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna called on Cmde Ahamed Amin Abdullah BSP,psc, Officiating Chairman Chattogram Port Authority. Expressing his and Indian Navy's gratitude for the support given by Chattogram Port to the ship, the CO further had a fruitful discussion on issues of mutual interest." Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna called on Cmde Ahamed Amin Abdullah BSP,psc, Officiating Chairman Chattogram Port Authority. Expressing his and Indian Navy’s gratitude for the support given by Chattogram Port to the ship, the CO further had a fruitful discussion on issues of… pic.twitter.com/dtvg3tW8Ti — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) May 9, 2026

CO Pays Homage at War Cemetery

Commander Siddharth Chaudhary visited Chattogram Commonwealth War Cemetery and laid a wreath in remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made by the soldiers of undivided India. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka further said, "The Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna visited Chattogram Commonwealth War Cemetery and laid a wreath in remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made by the soldiers of undivided India and the Commonwealth during the Second World War."

The Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna visited Chattogram Commonwealth War Cemetery and laid a wreath in remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made by the soldiers of undivided India and the Commonwealth during the Second World War.#IOS_SAGAR.#SAGAR#MAHASAGAR… pic.twitter.com/wSdQLHIOP2 — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) May 9, 2026

Reception for Ship's Personnel

Commander Chattogram Naval Area (COMCHIT) also hosted a Reception for the personnel of INS Sunayna. In a post on X, the High Commission said, "IOS Sagar visit to Chattogram continued with a Reception hosted by COMCHIT. The evening was made more entertaining through performances by Bangladesh Navy as well as personnel of INS Sunayna."

IOS Sagar visit to Chattogram continued with a Reception hosted by COMCHIT. The evening was made more entertaining through performances by Bangladesh Navy as well as personnel of INS Sunayna.#IOS_SAGAR.#SAGAR#MAHASAGAR#MaritimeDiplomacy#BridgesofFriendship… pic.twitter.com/kdnZyVDbC6 — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) May 9, 2026

Strengthening Professional Cooperation

Earlier, the Commanding Officer of Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayana on Friday called on senior dignitaries in the Chattogram Naval Area after the ship arrived in Chattogram for a two-day visit as part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar deployment. In a post on X, the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh said, "Commanding Officer of INS Sunayana called on senior dignitaries in Chattogram Naval Area, including COMCHIT, COMBAN and ASD. The CO thanked the dignitaries for hosting the ship in Chattogram. In addition, areas of shared professional interest, including enhancing cooperation through exercises and training engagements, were discussed."

Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna called on senior dignitaries in Chattogram Naval Area including COMCHIT, COMBAN and ASD. The CO thanked the dignitaries for hosting the ship in Chattogram. In addition, areas of shared professional interest including enhancing cooperation… pic.twitter.com/1qsrP28coI — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) May 8, 2026

The port visit forms part of a broader itinerary under IOS Sagar, which includes professional interactions, social engagements and commemorative events designed to deepen naval collaboration in the region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Europe Day: EU, India hail forward-looking partnership, shared ties

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 21:00:29 +0530

Ambassador of the Delegation of the European Union to India, Herve Delphin, on Saturday said that the Europe Day reception was a celebration of deeper ties and shared values between the European Union and India.

Delphin said that the European Union and India are aligned on several global priorities and continue to strengthen a consequential and forward-looking partnership built on shared prosperity and cooperation.

In a post on X, he said, "Europe Day reception was a moment celebrating what the EU stands for but also of deeper ties, from Commerce to Culture, from Symbolism to Substance, shared Values & shared Prosperity. EU and India Natural Partners! Chief Guest Minister Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman alongside EU27 Ambassadors." 1 #EuropeDay reception was a moment celebrating what the EU stands for but also of deeper ties, from Commerce to Culture, from Symbolism to Substance, shared Values & shared Prosperity. Natural Partners! to Chief Guest Minister @nsitharaman alongside EU27 Ambassadors pic.twitter.com/BUxEWL33af — Hervé Delphin (@EUAmbIndia) May 9, 2026

Sitharaman on India-EU Strategic Partnership

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday stated that the 16th India-EU Summit, held in New Delhi in January 2026, provided decisive new momentum to the bilateral strategic partnership, elevating it to a higher level of engagement.

Addressing the Europe Day 2026 celebrations in the presence of EU Ambassador Herve Delphin, Sitharaman noted that the outcomes of the summit reflect a transformative phase in India-European Union relations.

"The 16th India-EU Summit held at New Delhi in January 2026 has given a decisive new momentum to our Strategic partnership, taking it to a newer level," the Finance Minister said on X. Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman attended and addressed the Europe Day celebrations in presence of EU Ambassador Mr. Hervé Delphin, in New Delhi, today. In her address on the occasion, FM Smt. @nsitharaman stated that the 16th India–EU Summit held… pic.twitter.com/rKkoN0VngD — Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) May 8, 2026

The Finance Minister emphasised that the successful conclusion of negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), alongside the signing of the Security and Defence Partnership and the adoption of the Comprehensive Framework on Cooperation on Mobility, represents a new chapter in Indo-EU relations.

"The joint roadmap adopted at the Summit - 'Towards 2030: India-EU a Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda' provides a clear and ambitious vision for our cooperation over the coming years," the Ministry of Finance quoted her as saying.

Push for FTA Investment Chapter

Earlier on Thursday, the European Union's Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin, advocated for the inclusion of an investment liberalisation chapter within the landmark free trade agreement (FTA) between the two powers.

Delphin also called for the rapid finalisation of a separate investment protection pact to solidify the legal ground for businesses. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India's KVS highlights safe migration, digital efforts at UN forum

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 20:01:18 +0530

Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh on Saturday highlighted the importance of global mobility and stressed the need for "safe, orderly and regular migration," while underscoring India's digital initiatives in migration governance at the United Nations.

Addressing the International Migration Review Forum 2026 at the UN headquarters, Singh said the world must collectively work towards managing migration through cooperation and shared responsibility. Leveraging Digital Innovation in Migration Governance | India’s e-Migrate Experience #IMRF2026, New York, UN pic.twitter.com/x1Qql04yNZ — Kirti Vardhan Singh (@KVSinghMPGonda) May 9, 2026 "It's a privilege to address this gathering on the margins of the second International Migration Review Forum. We have come together to reflect on one of the most defining features of our time, which is global mobility, and also the shared responsibility to ensure safe, orderly and regular migration of our peoples," he said.

The Indian Diaspora's Global Impact

Singh said the Indian diaspora, which is spread across more than 200 countries, plays a significant role in strengthening global economic and cultural linkages. "The Indian migration story is both vast and dynamic. We have a diaspora of over 34 million people spread all across the globe, encompassing more than 200 countries. Our global community has served to connect economies, cultures, and ideas through many centuries. Their contributions through remittances, investments, and knowledge exchange continue to play a vital role, not only in India's development but also in the prosperity of the societies and the countries they have integrated into," he said.

A Holistic Approach to Migration Governance

He further said India follows a holistic approach to migration governance, focusing on protection, welfare and empowerment of migrants at every stage. "Over the years, India has adopted a holistic approach to migration governance, one that places the welfare, protection, and empowerment of the immigrants at its core. This approach recognises that migration is not merely a movement of people, but a continuum that spans pre-departure preparation, safe transit, dignified employment, and eventual return and reintegration back into our societies," Singh added.

Digital Innovation and the e-Migrate Platform

Highlighting the role of technology, the Minister said digital innovation has transformed migration systems into more transparent and efficient frameworks. "The strategic use of digital innovation is a key pillar of our governance. It has transformed reactive systems into anticipatory, transparent, and inclusive frameworks that serve our citizens more effectively. In this context, India's e-migrate platform stands out as a pioneering initiative. It provides an end-to-end digital ecosystem which enhances transparency in recruitment, enables verification of employers and recruitment agents, and ensures the integrity of employment contracts," he said.

End-to-End Digital Ecosystem

He explained that the e-Migrate platform provides an end-to-end digital ecosystem that enables verification of employers, recruitment agencies and employment contracts, while also integrating secure documentation and multilingual support. "The platform integrates secure documentation, verifies employment offers, incorporates zero-cost digital payment solutions, and offers multilingual 24/7 support. This ensures that the protection and mobility of our migrants are facilitated. The platform functions as an end-to-end ecosystem, allowing recruitment either directly by registered foreign employers or registered recruitment agencies. Foreign employers can register on the e-migrate portal to recruit Indian workers in a streamlined and regulated manner. Once they are registered, they can raise their manpower demand online, either through authorised recruitment agents or by applying directly for a permit to recruit," he said.

Regulating Recruitment Agents for Safer Migration

Singh added that recruitment through the platform is regulated and transparent, with only registered agents allowed to facilitate overseas employment. "Similarly, recruitment agencies can also register on the portal, ensuring that immigration clearance for overseas recruitment is conducted through a transparent and approved system. A key pillar of this system is the licensing and monitoring of recruitment agents. Only authorised registered agents, approved and periodically renewed through the portal, are permitted to facilitate overseas recruitment. This digitally maintained list of authorised recruitment agents is publicly accessible on the portal, enhancing transparency and allowing workers to verify agents before engaging with them," he added.

Strengthening Safeguards for Workers

He noted that the system has helped reduce fraudulent practices and strengthen safeguards for workers. "This significantly reduces fraudulent practices. Currently, we have 298,000 registered foreign employers and 2,457 active recruitment agents registered on the e-migrate portal. The e-migrate portal has also been integrated with a broader digital ecosystem through its convergence with systems such as national job portals, digital skilling hubs, and secure document repositories. With its multilingual interfaces, this platform ensures that migrants are better prepared and better protected throughout their journey," Singh said.

e-Migrate Mobile App for Accessibility

Singh further said the mobile application of the platform allows users to track applications, file grievances and access verified information on recruitment agents. "The e-migrate mobile application has also been developed, which allows stakeholders easy access to major services available on the portal. This includes tracking application status, obtaining a list of registered and blacklisted recruitment agents, filing grievances, and other such services. India's digital public infrastructure reflects a larger vision--one where technology bridges gaps, streamlines access, and brings governance closer to the people," he said.

India's Vision for Inclusive Governance

He added that India's digital public infrastructure reflects a broader vision of inclusive governance supported by emerging technologies. "The use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, helps to enhance our ability to deliver personalised services, detect risks, and respond proactively to the needs of our nationals. Our efforts are anchored in inclusivity, accessibility, and trust to ensure that even the most vulnerable migrants can benefit from these systems. Today's event is an opportunity not only to share India's experience, but also to learn from the diverse practices of all other member states," he added.

A Call for International Cooperation

He concluded by stressing the importance of international cooperation in migration governance. "Migration is inherently transnational, and to unlock its full potential, its governance must be rooted in cooperation and mutual learning. Through the exchange of knowledge and best practices, we can collectively strengthen systems that uphold dignity, protect rights, and provide safer pathways for our migrants. I look forward to the discussions ahead and to the insights that will emerge from this exchange from all the honourable delegates," he said.

About the International Migration Review Forum

In 2018, Member States agreed to review progress at the local, national, regional, and global levels in implementing the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) within the United Nations framework, through a State-led approach and with the participation of all relevant stakeholders, as per a statement by the UN.

It consists of four interactive multi-stakeholder round tables, a policy debate, and a plenary, preceded by an informal interactive multi-stakeholder hearing hosted by PGA on May 4. It will result in an inter-governmentally agreed Progress Declaration. The second International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) took place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on May 5-8 and will be preceded by an informal multistakeholder hearing on May 4. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Taiwan mulls deeper security coordination with Japan against China

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:31:04 +0530

Taiwan is considering deeper strategic coordination with Japan on a range of security issues linked to China's growing regional assertiveness, according to statements made by Taiwan's National Security Bureau (NSB) Director-General Tsai Ming-yen. The development follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's unveiling of a revised Indo-Pacific Strategy that places strong emphasis on maritime security, supply chain resilience, and technological cooperation, as reported by The Taipei Times.

Strategic Coordination on Security

According to The Taipei Times, speaking during a classified session of Taiwan's legislative Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee, Tsai said Taipei is evaluating possible joint initiatives with Tokyo in three major areas: safeguarding undersea internet cables, countering China's "gray zone" maritime tactics, and expanding collaboration on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

The remarks came after Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chiu Chih-wei urged the Taiwanese government to align more closely with Japan's updated "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy," announced by Takaichi during her visit to Vietnam on May 2. The Japanese framework focuses on strengthening critical energy and mineral supply chains essential for the AI-driven economy, while also promoting regional security partnerships.

Tackling 'Gray Zone' Tactics

Tsai noted that Taiwan and Japan, both heavily dependent on submarine communications infrastructure, share common concerns over the vulnerability of undersea cables to sabotage and interference. Japan has reportedly shown particular interest in Taiwan's experience handling Chinese-linked disruptions targeting telecom networks and maritime infrastructure. Taiwanese officials also accused China of escalating "gray zone" operations and coercive tactics that stop short of direct military conflict aimed at expanding Chinese influence in regional waters. Tsai said intelligence exchanges between Taipei and Tokyo are already helping both sides monitor and respond to these activities, as cited by The Taipei Times.

Call for Regional Cooperation and CPTPP Bid

Chiu additionally called for broader regional cooperation involving South Korea to reinforce energy security and critical supply chains. He also suggested Taiwan should seek stronger Japanese backing for its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), as reported by The Taipei Times. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

China sends 8 military aircraft, 6 vessels near Taiwan on Saturday

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:00:28 +0530

Chinese Military Activity Near Taiwan

Eight sorties of Chinese military aircraft, six vessels and two official ships operating around Taiwan's territorial waters were detected on Saturday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said. In a post on X, the ministry said, "8 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 8 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded." 8 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 8 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation… pic.twitter.com/jllLbSOACt — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) (@MoNDefense) May 9, 2026

Earlier on Friday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence detected the presence of 12 sorties of Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels and two official ships around itself. Of the 12, 10 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. In a post on X, the MND said, "12 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 10 out of 12 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded." 12 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 10 out of 12 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the… pic.twitter.com/ATCL2dwyik — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) (@MoNDefense) May 8, 2026

Background on China-Taiwan Relations

Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bangladesh's Awami League congratulates new WB CM Suvendu Adhikari

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 16:00:25 +0530

Awami League Congratulates Suvendu Adhikari

The Bangladesh Awami League on Saturday congratulated BJP's Legislative Party leader Suvendu Adhikari on his electoral victory in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections and his assumption of office as the Chief Minister of West Bengal.

In a statement issued on behalf of the party's Central Working Committee, the Awami League described the electoral mandate in West Bengal as "a unique recognition of Suvendu Adhikari's strong leadership." Bangladesh Awami League congratulates Shri Suvendu Adhikari on assuming office as Chief Minister of West Bengal Bangladesh Awami League has extended its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to public leader Shri Suvendu Adhikari on his decisive victory in the West Bengal… pic.twitter.com/QI1rL02YwC — Bangladesh Awami League (@albd1971) May 9, 2026

The party highlighted the "shared history, language, and cultural ties between Bangladesh and West Bengal" and expressed confidence that "this new chapter will elevate those relations to greater heights."

The statement also underlined the longstanding relationship between Bangladesh and India, saying the two countries share "a long-standing history of genuine friendship and cooperation." According to the Awami League, "during the tenure of the newly elected government of West Bengal, this bilateral relationship and the momentum of mutual development are expected to be further strengthened."

The party further wished Adhikari and his cabinet "success and good health," along with "continued peace and prosperity for the people of West Bengal."

Adhikari Takes Oath as West Bengal's First BJP CM

BJP's Legislative Party leader Suvendu Adhikari today took oath as the state's first BJP Chief Minister, marking a significant political development in West Bengal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, JP Nadda and Dharmendra Pradhan, along with Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami, attended the swearing-in ceremony.

BJP leaders on Friday extended their wishes to Adhikari after he was named the Leader of the BJP Legislature Party in West Bengal and is poised to take the oath as the next Chief Minister of the State, following the party's victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.

BJP's Decisive Victory in 2026 Assembly Polls

On May 4, Suvendu Adhikari established a dominant position in two of West Bengal's most-watched constituencies, Bhabanipur and Nandigram, winning them both.

Figures from the Election Commission of India (ECI) following the 20th and final round of counting in Bhabanipur show Adhikari winning against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by a substantial margin of 15,105 votes. Simultaneously, he also won the Nandigram assembly seat. According to the data displayed on the ECI official website. Suvendu Adhikari secured 1,27,301 votes at the conclusion of the 19th and final round.

Adhikari significantly widened his lead in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency on Monday night, surging ahead of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

BJP has won 207 seats in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, while the Trinamool Congress (TMC) secured 80 seats after ruling the state for 15 years.

West Bengal recorded the highest-ever voter turnout since independence with an impressive 91.66 per cent polling in Phase-ll of the Assembly elections. In phase I, the poll participation was 93.19%, taking the combined poll percentage to 92.47 per cent.

The 2026 West Bengal Assembly election results have led to a dramatic political shift, ending Mamata Banerjee's long dominance and bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to power with a commanding 206 seats. This marks a major blow to the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which secured only 80 seats, a steep decline from its previous stronghold. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran slams US's 'whimsical adventurism', 'roguish behaviour'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 15:01:10 +0530

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei sharply criticised "whimsical adventurism and roguish behaviour" of the US, saying recent developments had exposed the consequences of "lawless irresponsibility".

In a post on X on Friday, Baghaei said that "vermin-like nocturnal scheming" and dismissive descriptions such as "a light slap" could not erase a "profound disgrace born of narcissism, greed, reckless miscalculation, and lawless irresponsibility." Vermin-like nocturnal scheming and naive euphemisms such as “a light slap” can do nothing to erase the profound disgrace born of narcissism, greed, reckless miscalculation, and lawless irresponsibility. The consequences of this whimsical adventurism and roguish behavior have now… https://t.co/LVjvYqkKe6 — Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) May 8, 2026

"The consequences of this whimsical adventurism and roguish behaviour have now become clear to the entire world," he said.

Baghaei added that "disjointed, delusional tweets no longer hold any sway over reality," while quoting a line that "the deeper they sink into folly, the more inventive they become in justifying it."

The remarks appeared to build on an earlier X post published on May 6, in which the Iranian spokesman cited the concept of "wooden-headness" as a source of self-deception in governments.

"Wooden-headness, the source of self-deception, is a factor that plays a remarkably large role in government. It consists in assessing a situation in terms if preconceived fixed notions while ignoring or rejecting any contrary signs. It is acting according to wish while not… pic.twitter.com/0iMjFfPLU4 — Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) May 6, 2026

Quoting from the earlier message, Baqaei said, "It consists in assessing a situation in terms of preconceived fixed notions while ignoring or rejecting any contrary signs," adding that it reflects acting according to wishes while refusing to be guided by facts.

Trump calls US action a 'love tap'

Earlier, US President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) described the US action against Iranian targets as a "love tap" while insisting that a ceasefire remains in effect despite the recent military exchanges between the two sides in the region.

Trump made the remarks in a phone conversation with Senior Political Correspondent for ABC News, Rachel Scott, during which he characterised the strikes as limited in scope.

"President Trump tells me in a phone call that the retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets are just a 'love tap.' 'It's just a love tap'," Scott wrote in a post on X.

When asked by Scott whether the reported escalation meant the ceasefire had collapsed, Trump responded, "No, no, the ceasefire is going. It's in effect."

US forces disable two more tankers

Meanwhile, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US naval forces disabled two more Iranian-flagged oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman as part of the ongoing US blockade measures against the Islamic Republic, while also redirecting 57 commercial vessels in the region.

In a statement issued on Friday, CENTCOM said US forces disabled the Iranian unladen tankers M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda before the vessels could enter a port of the Islamic Republic on the Gulf of Oman.

According to CENTCOM, a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet operating from USS George HW Bush (CVN 77) fired precision munitions into the smokestacks of both unladen oil tankers, preventing them from reaching Iranian territory.

This comes after US forces on May 6 disabled another Iranian-flagged tanker, M/T Hasna, as it attempted to sail to an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman.

Trump floats 'Project Freedom plus'

Meanwhile, Trump on Friday (local time) said his administration may consider reviving the now-suspended maritime security initiative, "Project Freedom", aimed at helping the passage of commercial vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions in the Gulf.

If a deal is not reached with Iran, Trump added that the renewed effort would be expanded into what he called "Project Freedom plus."

Speaking to reporters at the White House before travelling to a dinner at his golf course in Sterling, Virginia, Trump said that he might "go back to Project Freedom" if a deal is not reached, but it would be "Project Freedom plus", noting that the initiative would be the same as its predecessor, "plus other things".

"We'll go a different route if everything doesn't get signed up, buttoned up," Trump said. "I think Project Freedom is good, but I think we have other ways of doing it also. We may go back to Project Freedom if things don't happen, but it'd be Project Freedom plus, meaning Project Freedom plus other things," he added.

This comes after Trump on Tuesday declared that "Project Freedom" will be temporarily paused while the naval blockade of Iran's ports remains in place. He also said that his administration is expecting a response from Iran regarding Washington's proposal aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict.

When pressed on whether he believed Iran was intentionally delaying the process, Trump said he was uncertain, adding, "We'll find out soon enough." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran says it's reviewing US proposal, will respond at right time

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:31:10 +0530

Iran on Saturday said it was still reviewing the United States' proposal linked to ongoing negotiations over the West Asia conflict and would respond "at the appropriate time", according to a report by Al Jazeera. The report said expectations had grown that Tehran would issue a response on Friday after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Washington was expecting an answer from Iran. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the proposal remains under review and dismissed pressure from Washington over deadlines. "The deadlines set by American politicians mean nothing; we do our own work, and we do not concern ourselves with deadlines or ultimatums," Baghaei was quoted as saying.

Complex Internal Review Process

According to Al Jazeera, one reason behind the delay is the highly technical nature of the proposal, with Iranian negotiators closely examining every provision in the document before finalising a response. The report added that several Iranian institutions and senior officials must also approve the response before it can be finalised.

The negotiating process reportedly involves Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and Iran's Supreme National Security Council, which oversees major security matters, including the ongoing conflict. Al Jazeera further reported that Iran's Supreme Leader would ultimately have to approve the final response before it is delivered to Washington. Despite the delay, Iranian officials have maintained that discussions are ongoing and that the proposal is still being examined internally.

US Officials Await Iran's Answer

Earlier on Friday (local time), US President Donald Trump said that his administration is expecting a response from Iran later in the day regarding Washington's proposal aimed at ending the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Speaking to reporters before travelling to a dinner at his golf course in Sterling, Virginia, Trump said, "We'll hear from them supposedly tonight," when asked whether Washington had received any response from Tehran. When pressed on whether he believed Iran was intentionally delaying the process, Trump said he was uncertain, adding, "We'll find out soon enough."

His remarks came after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was anticipating an Iranian response on Friday to the proposal aimed at ending the conflict, while expressing hope that it would be "a serious offer".

"We should know something today," Rubio told reporters during a gaggle in Rome. Rubio is currently on a diplomatic tour to Italy and the Vatican amid tension in the transatlantic relations between the US and Europe. "We have not received that yet, as of the last hour," Rubio said, adding that Iran's internal situation could be affecting the timeline. "Their system is still highly fractured, and it's dysfunctional as well, so that may be serving as an impediment," he added. Rubio also said Washington hoped the Iranian response would lead to "a serious process of negotiation".

Trump on Proposal's Details

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Trump, responding to enquiries regarding whether Iran had engaged with what some had termed a "one-page proposal", Trump challenged that description of the document. "Well, it's more than a one-page offer. It's an offer that basically said they will not have nuclear weapons; they are going to hand us the nuclear dust and many other things that we want," Trump said.

When questioned on whether the Iranian leadership had consented to these terms, Trump indicated that a verbal agreement does not necessarily signal a definitive resolution. "They have agreed. When they agree, it doesn't mean much because the next day they forget they agreed," he said, further noting, "And you know, we're dealing with different sets of leaders." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pakistani activist accuses authorities of abducting brother to stop her

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:31:02 +0530

A member of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), Fauzia Baloch, has accused Pakistani authorities of attempting to coerce her into leaving the organisation by linking the alleged disappearance of her brother to her political activism, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

Details of the Alleged Abduction

According to The Balochistan Post, speaking at a press conference alongside her mother at their residence in Karachi, Fauzia Baloch said her brother, Dad Shashani Baloch, was allegedly taken away by Pakistani security personnel during a late-night raid on April 21, 2026. She claimed that nearly two dozen armed men in civilian clothes, accompanied by police vehicles and private cars, stormed the house and violently detained him.

Fauzia alleged that officials linked to Pakistan's Counter Terrorism Department and intelligence agencies participated in the operation. She further stated that the family was prevented from filming the incident and threatened when they attempted to document the raid. According to her account, the authorities neither produced an arrest warrant nor disclosed any legal grounds for the detention.

Police Accused of Obstruction

The family also accused local police of obstructing efforts to file a formal complaint. Fauzia said officers initially asked them to wait for 24 hours before reporting the disappearance, while an application later submitted at Maripur police station allegedly went unregistered. Police reportedly advised the family to lodge a complaint against "unknown persons," despite the family insisting that official vehicles and uniformed personnel were clearly involved.

Coercion and Past Intimidation

Fauzia Baloch further alleged that her brother had previously endured enforced disappearance and torture, while the family had repeatedly faced intimidation because of her association with the BYC. She also accused Karachi police of disrupting a planned press conference at the Karachi Press Club and detaining several family members, including her mother, during their return journey, as highlighted by The Balochistan Post. Fauzia claimed intermediaries conveyed messages suggesting her brother could be released if she resigned from the BYC.

Pakistani authorities have not publicly responded to the allegations, though officials have previously denied involvement in unlawful detentions. Human rights groups have long raised concerns over enforced disappearances and alleged intimidation of Baloch activists in Pakistan, as reported by The Balochistan Post. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

JSMM accuses Pakistan of torture in Sindh prisons, vows global action

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:31:00 +0530

The Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM) has accused Pakistani authorities of carrying out systematic torture and human rights abuses against political activists and ordinary inmates inside prisons across Sindh, warning that the issue will now be raised before international human rights institutions and global media platforms.

Allegations of Widespread Abuse in Sindh Prisons

In a post shared on X, JSMM chairman Shafi Burfat alleged that Sindh's prisons have become centres of "political revenge, fear and repression", where detainees are subjected to severe physical and psychological abuse under the supervision of prison authorities and state agencies.

According to the statement, several political prisoners linked to JSMM are allegedly being kept in solitary confinement in cramped cells while chained with handcuffs and iron shackles.

JSMM also claimed that sick prisoners are being denied medical care, medicines, doctors and other essential healthcare facilities. It further alleged that inmates are being served poor-quality food and contaminated drinking water, resulting in worsening health conditions inside prisons.

The nationalist organisation accused authorities of restricting family visits and cutting communication between prisoners and their relatives, describing the measures as a deliberate attempt to mentally break detainees.

Appeal to International Human Rights Bodies

JSMM maintained that many Sindhi political activists had been arrested without transparent legal proceedings and were being targeted for their political beliefs, advocacy of Sindhi rights and demands for national freedom.

The group appealed to the United Nations, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the International Committee of the Red Cross and European human rights institutions to intervene and investigate alleged abuses in Sindh's prisons.

JSMM Vows to Intensify Protests

JSMM demanded an immediate end to torture, enforced disappearances and what it described as politically motivated arrests of Sindhi activists. It also called for independent international investigations into prison conditions and the conduct of Pakistani state agencies and prison officials.

JSMM announced plans to launch protests in Germany and intensify outreach to international bodies in an effort to highlight what it termed "state repression and fascism" against Sindhi political workers.

JSMM argued that no political movement can be crushed through imprisonment, torture or enforced disappearances, insisting that the struggle for national rights and freedom remains protected under international law.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pakistan: 10M domestic workers in Punjab face exploitation, abuse

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:30:35 +0530

Despite observing International Domestic Workers Day every June, Pakistan continues to fail millions of domestic workers, particularly in Punjab province, where legal protections remain largely absent years after the passage of the Domestic Workers Act 2019. More than 10 million domestic workers across the province remain exposed to exploitation, abuse and economic insecurity due to the government's failure to enforce the law, as reported by The Express Tribune.

Scale of Exploitation in Punjab

According to The Express Tribune, Lahore Division alone accounts for over four million domestic workers, followed by Rawalpindi with 1.6 million and Faisalabad with 1.4 million. Women and children form the majority of this workforce, many of whom migrate from impoverished rural regions in search of survival. Child labour, especially involving young girls, continues unchecked in many households.

Legislative Flaws and Inaction

Rights activists argue that the legislation itself contains serious flaws. The Act allows employment from the age of 15, contradicting constitutional protections for children, while maternity leave provisions remain significantly lower than those available under other labour laws. Committees intended to resolve disputes at the Union Council level are still inactive due to the absence of an effective local government structure.

Activists and Workers Demand Justice

Civil society members criticised Pakistani authorities for ratifying international labour conventions while failing to implement basic protections. Activist Amna Malik noted that domestic workers remain invisible within Pakistan's undocumented economy, where wages are paid informally, and minimum wage regulations are routinely ignored.

NGO representatives also demanded structured vocational training, social security mechanisms and strict enforcement of the Rs40,000 minimum wage.

Labour union representatives highlighted widespread gender discrimination, unpaid leave, medical neglect and job insecurity faced by domestic workers.

Several workers revealed they had spent decades in service without receiving healthcare, pensions or legal protection, accusing authorities of allowing symbolic campaigns to replace meaningful reform, as cited by The Express Tribune.

Government Admits Enforcement Gaps

Punjab labour officials admitted that the law was drafted in haste and still lacks effective enforcement mechanisms. Officials cited difficulties in monitoring private households and acknowledged severe administrative gaps, including staff shortages and incomplete rules of business, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US successfully removes all highly enriched uranium from Venezuela

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 12:30:25 +0530

The US Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) on Friday (local time) announced the successful removal of all remaining highly enriched uranium from a legacy research reactor in Venezuela, calling the operation a significant step in reducing nuclear security risks in South America and the US homeland.

A Swift and Coordinated Operation

According to NNSA, which is a semi-autonomous agency within the US Department of Energy, the mission was carried out in coordination with the Venezuelan Ministry of Science and Technology, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), experts from the United Kingdom, and US State Department personnel. "The safe removal of all enriched uranium from Venezuela sends another signal to the world of a restored and renewed Venezuela," said Brandon Williams, NNSA Administrator. "Thanks to President Trump's decisive leadership, the dedicated teams on the ground completed in months what would have normally taken years."

The agency said the RV-1 reactor had supported physics and nuclear research for decades, but after research activities ended in 1991, uranium enriched above the 20 per cent threshold remained as surplus material. NNSA's Office of Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation (DNN), working alongside experts from the Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research, removed 13.5 kilograms (about 30 pounds) of uranium from the reactor less than six weeks after an initial site visit.

Logistics and Transport

The uranium was securely packaged into a spent fuel cask and transported roughly 100 miles overland to a Venezuelan port before being loaded onto a specialised carrier supplied by the United Kingdom's Nuclear Transport Solutions. The shipment arrived in the United States in early May and was transferred to the Savannah River Site for processing and reuse.

Praise and Future Plans

Dr. Matt Napoli, DNN's Deputy Administrator, who travelled to Venezuela to oversee the operation, praised the teams involved in the mission. "I couldn't be prouder of the men and women who carried out this vital mission," Napoli said. "NNSA's long history in removing nuclear material and the team's extensive know-how were key to this success."

NNSA said the material will now be processed at the H-Canyon chemical separations facility to obtain high-assay low-enriched uranium for future US nuclear energy programs. The agency added that since 1996, it and its predecessor offices have removed or confirmed the disposition of more than 7,350 kilograms (16,250 pounds) of highly enriched uranium and plutonium from dozens of countries as part of global nuclear nonproliferation efforts. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar, PM Persad-Bissessar review India-Trinidad & Tobago ties

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 12:00:51 +0530

External Affairs Minister S.Jaishankar on Friday (local time) said that he held extensive discussions with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her Cabinet colleagues on strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Trinidad and Tobago.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said he " sat down this evening with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her Cabinet colleagues for a comprehensive review of our bilateral ties." Sat down this evening with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her Cabinet colleagues for a comprehensive review of our bilateral ties. @PM_Kamla #TrinidadAndTobago While delivering on the commitments made by PM @narendramodi last year, we explored new ideas and initiatives in our… pic.twitter.com/vtmWhXLpRq — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 9, 2026

The minister added that the discussions focused on implementing commitments made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the previous year, while also exploring new areas of partnership and cooperation. He said, "While delivering on the commitments made by PM Narendra Modi last year, we explored new ideas and initiatives in our bilateral cooperation."

Agreements and initiatives to deepen cooperation

Earlier, Jaishankar met with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister during his visit to the Caribbean nation as part of his ongoing three-nation tour and joined her in presenting Made-in-India laptops to Trinbagonian school children, while both sides also concluded a series of agreements aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.

In a series of posts on X, Jaishankar said, "Joined PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar at the presentation of Made In India laptops to Trinbagonian school children. Delivering on PM Narendra Modi's commitment last year, this is a message of learning, awareness and opportunity."

The External Affairs Minister also announced the conclusion of several agreements between India and Trinidad and Tobago covering tourism, renewable energy, development cooperation and traditional medicine. "Concluded Agreements today on Tourism, on Solarisation of Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago building, on Quick Impact Projects, and on establishing Ayurveda Chair," Jaishankar posted.

Recap of PM Modi's historic 2025 visit

Earlier in July 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a historic five-nation tour scheduled from July 2 to 9, with visits to Ghana, Trinidad & Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia.

During his two-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Modi participated in several key events, including an address to the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament and a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

PM Modi held wide-ranging talks with PM Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad & Tobago, discussing ways to deepen economic ties and enhance cooperation in areas such as disaster management, climate change, defence, technology, healthcare and agricultural research.

Highest honour conferred on PM Modi

PM Modi was also conferred with 'The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago,' the nation's highest honour, during a ceremonial event at the President's House in Port of Spain.

PM Modi expressed his gratitude to President Christine Carla Kangaloo, PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar for honouring him with the 'The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.'

PM Modi and his Trinidad and Tobago counterpart Kamala Persad-Bissessar also planted a neem tree in the premises of the Red House (Seat of the Parliament of T&T) as part of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

‘Why Speak English?’ Pakistan Army’s Strange Op Sindoor Remark Sparks Massive Troll Fest

Deevika NM — Sat, 09 May 2026 11:52:42 +0530

A bizarre remark by Pakistan Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry during a press conference on the anniversary of Operation Sindoor has triggered a major social media storm, with users across platforms mocking his comments on the Indian military briefing.

The controversy erupted after Indian military officials held a detailed press briefing marking one year of Operation Sindoor — India’s large-scale cross-border military operation launched in May 2025 following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. During the interaction, Indian officers highlighted the operation’s strategic impact and the damage inflicted on terror camps and Pakistani military infrastructure.

Shortly afterward, Pakistan also organised a parallel media briefing to commemorate what it called “Marka-e-Haq.” However, instead of responding primarily to India’s military claims, Lt Gen Chaudhry questioned the language used during the Indian press conference.

“A little while ago, the Indian DGMO and senior officers did a press briefing. First of all, why are they speaking English?” Chaudhry said during the briefing, adding, “Is it because you want to tell the world what happened?”

DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on India’s military briefing:Why are they speaking English?Briefing was led by DGMO Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai & Air Marshal AK Bharti on #OperationSindoorDG ISPR doesn't know English, but Indian officers were briefing world#اد_ال #Pakistán pic.twitter.com/OKpvSwhVGj

— Your Views Your News (@urviewsurnews) May 8, 2026

The statement quickly went viral online, with social media users ridiculing the focus on language rather than the substance of India’s military briefing. Clips from the Pakistani press conference spread rapidly across X, Instagram and YouTube, triggering memes, sarcastic comments and political reactions.

Also Read: Op Sindoor anniversary: India rebukes Pak, Indus Water Treaty abeyant

Many users pointed out that English is commonly used during international military briefings to communicate with global media and diplomatic audiences. Others joked that Pakistan appeared more concerned about the language of the briefing than the military details discussed by Indian officials.

During India’s briefing, Air Marshal AK Bharti claimed Indian forces had “struck and decimated” nine terror camps and targeted 11 Pakistani airfields during the four-day conflict linked to Operation Sindoor. He also said India damaged 13 Pakistani aircraft “either on the ground or in the air.”

Indian officials reiterated that the operation was launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack and aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan, however, continued to describe the strikes as “unprovoked” and repeated claims about downing Indian fighter jets — assertions India has repeatedly denied.

The anniversary of Operation Sindoor has become a politically and symbolically charged moment in both countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior Indian ministers recently changed their social media profile pictures to mark one year of the operation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also described Operation Sindoor as a “swift, precise and joint response” that reflected India’s “new military ethos” during a commanders’ conference this week.

While tensions between India and Pakistan continue to remain sensitive, it was Pakistan’s unexpected focus on the use of English — rather than battlefield claims — that dominated online conversations and turned the press conference into a viral talking point.

Also Read: After Operation Sindoor, India Builds Powerful New Air Defence Shield Against Drones And Missiles

Indian Embassy in Baku celebrates Rabindranath Tagore's anniversary

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:30:21 +0530

The Embassy of India in Baku organised a special literary event to commemorate the birth anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, the legendary poet, philosopher, and Nobel laureate. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including a representative from the Azerbaijan Presidential Administration, students and faculty from the Azerbaijan University of Languages (AUL), representatives from the media, members of the Indian diaspora, literature enthusiasts, and friends of India in Azerbaijan.

Poetic Tributes from Students

The program featured soulful recitations of selected poems by Rabindranath Tagore in both Azerbaijani and English by students of the Azerbaijan University of Languages. In a beautiful gesture of literary homage, the students also recited a poem from the world-famous epic Leyla Majnun by the great Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi, honouring his enduring legacy.

Ambassador Pays Rich Tributes

In his address, Ambassador Abhay Kumar paid rich tributes to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, reflecting upon his remarkable journey from a young talent to a globally admired literary icon. The Ambassador highlighted Tagore's travels across the world, including his visit to Azerbaijan, and noted that the 150th birth anniversary of Tagore was grandly celebrated by the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences in Baku in 2011. He further informed the audience that Tagore's works continue to be widely studied and translated globally, and some of his renowned works, like 'Gitanjali', 'Nationalism', and 'My Golden Bengal', are available at the Azerbaijan National Library. While saluting Tagore's timeless literary legacy, Ambassador Abhay Kumar also acknowledged the poetic genius of Nizami Ganjavi and the profound depth and sensitivity of his works.

Event Highlights and Presentations

An important highlight of the event was the soulful rendition of Tagore's Poem by the Ambassador. An engaging audio-visual presentation on the life and journey of Rabindranath Tagore was screened for the audience. The presentation included original clips of Tagore's travels across the world and the rendition of India's national anthem by Rabindranath Tagore, in his own voice.

Fostering Cultural Camaraderie

Ambassador Abhay Kumar later distributed special gift hampers containing collections of books to the participating students from the Azerbaijan University of Languages. The evening concluded with a delectable spread of specially prepared Indian snacks, fostering warm conversations and cultural camaraderie among the guests. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar, T&T PM gift laptops; seal bilateral cooperation deals

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:00:28 +0530

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (local time) met with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar during his visit to the Caribbean nation as part of his ongoing three-nation tour and joined her in presenting Made-in-India laptops to Trinbagonian school children, while both sides also concluded a series of agreements aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.

Presentation of 'Made In India' Laptops

Joined PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar @PM_Kamla at the presentation of #MadeInIndia laptops to Trinbagonian school children. Delivering on PM @narendramodi’s commitment last year, this is a message of learning, awareness and opportunity. #TrinidadAndTobago pic.twitter.com/3c0GRQ1xpQ — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 9, 2026

Bilateral Agreements Concluded

"Concluded Agreements today on Tourism, on Solarisation of Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago building, on Quick Impact Projects, and on establishing Ayurveda Chair," Jaishankar posted.

Concluded Agreements today on Tourism, on Solarisation of @mfcagovtt building, on Quick Impact Projects, and on establishing Ayurveda Chair. #TrinidadAndTobago pic.twitter.com/9Sr48vwhCQ — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 9, 2026

High-Level Meetings

Highlighting his meeting with the Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Jaishankar said, "Such a pleasure to meet with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Value her guidance on bilateral cooperation and insights on regional issues."

Such a pleasure to meet with PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Value her guidance on bilateral cooperation and insights on regional issues. @PM_Kamla pic.twitter.com/eIPVci42HN — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 9, 2026

During the visit, the External Affairs Minister also called on senior parliamentary leaders of the country.

"Called on President of the Senate Wade Mark and Speaker of the House of Representatives Jagdeo Singh," he said in another post.

Called on President of the Senate Wade Mark and Speaker of the House of Representatives Jagdeo Singh @TTParliament pic.twitter.com/uoBirfZhBH — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

Jaishankar further expressed gratitude for the reception accorded to him at the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago.

"Privileged to be welcomed in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. Thank PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her gracious words," he stated.

Privileged to be welcomed in the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago. Thank PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her gracious words. @PM_Kamla pic.twitter.com/fvVpf1fDKd — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

Ceremonial Engagements and Arrival

The minister was also honoured at a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago. He was joined by legendary West Indian cricketer Brian Lara.

"Honoured by the flag raising ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs of Trinidad And Tobago. Thank Brian Lara, for joining us," Jaishankar posted.

Honoured by the flag raising ceremony at @mfcagovtt of Trinidad and Tobago. Thank @Brianlara for joining us. pic.twitter.com/hYHWuPEqRc — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

Earlier, the EAM arrived in Trinidad and Tobago, marking the final leg of his three-nation official tour in the Caribbean, following his engagement in Jamaica and Suriname.

In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar stated that he was pleased to be back in the country. He was welcomed by the Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Sean Sobers.

"Pleasure to be back in Trinidad and Tobago. Thank FM Sean Sobers, for the warm welcome. Look forward to a productive visit over the next two days," Jaishankar wrote in his post.

Jaishankar concluded his high-level visits to Jamaica and Suriname between May 2 and 7, marking a significant push in India's engagement with these countries.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

S Jaishankar in Trinidad and Tobago for final leg of Caribbean tour

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 06:00:31 +0530

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (local time) arrived in Trinidad and Tobago, marking the final leg of his three-nation official tour in the Caribbean, following his engagement in Jamaica and Suriname.

In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar stated that he was pleased to be back in the country. He was welcomed by the Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Sean Sobers. "Pleasure to be back in Trinidad and Tobago. Thank FM Sean Sobers, for the warm welcome. Look forward to a productive visit over the next two days," Jaishankar wrote in his post.

Jaishankar's High-Level Visits in the Caribbean

Earlier, Jaishankar concluded his high-level visits to Jamaica and Suriname between May 2 and 7, marking a significant push in India's engagement with these countries.

Engagements in Jamaica

In Jamaica, Jaishankar undertook the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister, where he held wide-ranging talks with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith.

The discussions reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and focused on expanding cooperation in health, infrastructure, digitalisation, agriculture, education, tourism, and capacity building.

During the visit, both sides signed three Memoranda of Understanding in the areas of health cooperation, solarisation of The Hugh Lawson Shearer Building, and broadcasting. They also reviewed progress in digital transformation, culture, sports, and digital payments initiatives.

India reaffirmed its support for Jamaica's recovery following Hurricane Melissa, with Jaishankar handing over 10 BHISHM emergency medical units and announcing additional assistance, including dialysis units, fishing boats, GPS equipment, and livelihood support tools.

Both sides also emphasised strengthening cooperation in multilateral forums, including on climate justice, climate finance, and issues concerning Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Jamaica also reiterated support for India's candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for 2028-29.

Cooperation with Suriname

In Suriname, the External Affairs Minister co-chaired the 9th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) with Foreign Minister Melvin WJ Bouva, reviewing bilateral relations across defence, health, energy, trade, agriculture, education, infrastructure, and traditional medicine.

According to the MEA, both sides agreed to further expand cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global developments. India also offered soft loans under Lines of Credit for infrastructure and strategic sector development.

Jaishankar called on the President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons and met National Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin, where both sides highlighted the importance of parliamentary exchanges.

As part of development cooperation, Jaishankar inaugurated a Passion Fruit Processing Facility in Suriname, completed with Indian grant assistance, aimed at strengthening agri-based value addition.

He also paid tributes at several cultural and historical sites linked to the Indian diaspora, including the Mahatma Gandhi statue, the Baba and Mai monument, and the Lallarookh Museum. He inaugurated a National Archives exhibition on Indian migration and delivered an address on "Partnership for Progress".

Jaishankar underscored India's commitment to Suriname's development and highlighted the resilience of the Girmitiya community in strengthening bilateral bonds.

Strengthening Ties with the Global South

The MEA said the visits reflect India's continued focus on strengthening development partnerships and deepening ties with countries in the Global South. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India reaffirms Vision MAHASAGAR at 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 06:00:27 +0530

India reiterated its commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region, guided by its Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and Neighbourhood First policy, during the 10th Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD-10) held in the national capital.

According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the dialogue took place from May 7 to 8 under the theme "Indian Ocean Region in a Transforming World", bringing together senior officials, policymakers, scholars and experts from Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) member states and dialogue partners to discuss key regional and global developments.

The MEA said the Dialogue was organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) and the IORA Secretariat.

Leaders Stress Cooperation Amid Evolving Challenges

The inaugural session featured addresses by Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Mauritius Minister of Regional Integration and International Trade Dhananjay Ramful, and Yemen Minister of State Waleed Mohammed Al Qadimi. The leaders stressed the importance of enhanced cooperation, collective security, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges.

A Premier Forum for Strategic Exchange

The Dialogue, described as a premier Track 1.5 forum of IORA, provided a platform for open discussions on maritime security, the Blue Economy, trade and investment, and sustainable development.

The MEA noted that India has previously hosted multiple editions of the Dialogue, including the inaugural session in Kerala in 2014, the sixth edition in New Delhi in 2019, and the eighth edition held virtually in 2021.

"A premier Track 1.5 forum of IORA, IOD enables open and constructive exchange of views on strategic issues of common concern, including maritime security, Blue Economy, trade and investment, and sustainable development," the statement read.

India's Leadership and Future Role in IORA

The 10th edition holds added significance as India currently holds the IORA Chairship for 2025-27. India reiterated its focus on strengthening regional cooperation and promoting collective growth across the Indian Ocean region.

"India reiterated its commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region, guided by its Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) and Neighbourhood First policy," the statement added.

The valedictory session of the Dialogue featured a special address by former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed, while Secretary (East) P Kumaran outlined India's priorities as IORA Chair and highlighted key outcomes of the discussions.

The MEA said the deliberations are expected to support ongoing efforts within IORA to enhance regional cooperation and promote security and shared prosperity across the Indian Ocean region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar's Suriname visit ends; India to boost defence, trade ties

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 05:00:28 +0530

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar concluded his official visit to Suriname from May 6 to 7, during which he reviewed the full spectrum of India-Suriname bilateral relations and agreed to further deepen cooperation across several sectors, including defence, health, energy, trade, technology and agriculture.

India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday, Jaishankar co-chaired the 9th India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) with Suriname's Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation, Melvin W J Bouva. The two sides discussed strengthening collaboration in defence and security, health, trade and commerce, infrastructure, education, sports, culture, traditional systems of medicine, and agriculture.

The MEA said both ministers noted that India-Suriname relations are marked by "cordiality, understanding and convergence of views on current global issues". They also exchanged perspectives on key regional and international developments. During the meeting, Jaishankar offered soft loans under India's Lines of Credit framework for infrastructure and strategic sector development in Suriname. Both sides agreed to hold the next Joint Commission Meeting in India. "Both Ministers noted that India-Suriname relations are marked by cordiality, understanding and convergence of views on current global issues. They also exchanged perspectives on key global and regional developments and cooperation. EAM offered soft loans under Lines of Credit for infrastructure and strategic sector development of Suriname. It was agreed to hold the next JCM in India," the statement read.

High-Level Engagements

During the visit, Jaishankar called on Suriname President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons and conveyed greetings from India to the government and people of Suriname. According to the MEA, Jaishankar underlined that India and Suriname are committed to realising the "full potential of the deep and long-standing bilateral relationship".

The External Affairs Minister also met with the Chairman of the National Assembly of Suriname, Ashwin Adhin, and both sides recognised the importance of parliamentary exchanges between the two democracies.

Development Partnership and Projects

As part of the visit, Jaishankar handed over the "Passion Fruit Processing Facility at MCP Agro NV", built with an Indian grant and technical assistance, in the presence of Foreign Minister Bouva and Suriname's Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Mike N Noersalim. The MEA said the project is expected to strengthen value addition capacity in Suriname's agri-based industries.

The EAM also highlighted the importance of development partnerships and said new Quick Impact Projects could be explored in the future. "The project was completed with Indian grant and technical assistance and will enhance the value addition capacity of the agri-based industries. EAM emphasized the significance of development partnership and conveyed that new Quick Impact grant Projects can be explored," the statement added.

Honouring Historical and Cultural Ties

Jaishankar also paid tributes at several sites associated with the Indian diaspora and historical ties between the two nations. He paid respects at the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Paramaribo, visited the Baba and Mai monument commemorating the first arrival of Hindustanis in Suriname, and paid homage at the "Monument for the Fallen Heroes" in Marienburg.

He also visited the Lallarookh Museum, which preserves the cultural heritage of the Hindustani community in Suriname. Jaishankar also inaugurated a week-long National Archives exhibition showcasing the history of Indian migration to Suriname and delivered an address titled "Partnership for Progress" focusing on India-Suriname ties.

During his address, Jaishankar acknowledged the "courage and resilience" of the Girmitiya community and said their legacy continues to strengthen the friendship between the two countries. He also interacted with members of the Indian community in Suriname and highlighted India's transformation and development journey, while reiterating that India remains a trusted partner for Suriname's growth and prosperity.

Part of a Wider Caribbean Tour

The visit comes as part of an official three-nation visit to Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago from May 2 to May 10. Following his engagements in Suriname, the EAM is scheduled to visit Trinidad and Tobago as the last leg of his tour.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India, Singapore vow to counter terrorism at 5th JWG meeting in Delhi

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 04:00:23 +0530

India and Singapore strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, during the 5th meeting of the India-Singapore Joint Working Group (JWG) on Combating Terrorism and Transnational Crime held in New Delhi.

In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the Joint Working Group unequivocally condemned the "heinous terrorist attack" in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, in which 26 innocent people were killed, as well as the terror incident near Red Fort in New Delhi on November 10, where a car explosion near the iconic monutment resulted in multiple fatalities, and caused injuries to several others. Both sides also stressed that those responsible for terrorism should be held accountable.

Strong Condemnation of Terrorism

"As strategic partners, India and Singapore underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism. The JWG unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism and reaffirmed the principle of zero tolerance towards terrorism," the statement read.

"The JWG condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025 and the terror incident near Red Fort, New Delhi, on November 10, 2025 and stressed that those responsible for terrorism should be held accountable," it added.

The meeting was held on Thursday and was co-chaired by Vinod Bahade, Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism) in the MEA, and Ngiam Shih Chun, Deputy Secretary (Policy) in Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs. The two sides reaffirmed the principle of "zero tolerance" towards terrorism and agreed that confronting terrorism requires sustained and comprehensive international cooperation.

Broadening Areas of Cooperation

The JWG renewed its commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts through global platforms, including the United Nations, ASEAN, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and other multilateral mechanisms.

The two countries also discussed cooperation in combating terrorists and terror groups listed under the UN Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee and agreed to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms to improve responses to cross-border threats.

During the meeting, the delegations discussed a wide range of traditional and emerging security challenges, including terrorist recruitment, cross-border movement of terrorists, radicalisation, abuse of technology for terrorist activities, and terror financing. They also exchanged views on regional and global terrorism threats, cybercrime, drug trafficking, and the nexus between transnational organised crime and terrorism.

The statement said both countries agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation through enhanced information sharing, law enforcement collaboration, capacity building, and exchange of best practices to counter terrorism and transnational crimes.

"They also exchanged views on regional and global terrorism threat assessments, cybercrimes, drug trafficking and the nexus between transnational organised crime and terrorism, and agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in dealing with these challenges," the statement read.

"They also agreed on further cooperation and collaboration, particularly in the sphere of sharing of information and best practices, law enforcement, and capacity building to counter terrorism and transnational crimes," it further stated.

Combating Transnational Scams

The Singapore delegation also visited India's Anti-Scam Centre during the visit. Both sides emphasised the importance of international cooperation in tackling transnational scams and expressed willingness to strengthen cooperation through information exchanges and capacity-building initiatives.

The MEA said the next meeting of the Joint Working Group on Combating Terrorism and Transnational Crime will be held in Singapore on a mutually convenient date. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US Navy disables two more Iranian-flagged oil tankers in Gulf of Oman

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 03:00:34 +0530

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said that US naval forces disabled two more Iranian-flagged oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman as part of the ongoing US blockade measures against the Islamic Republic, while also redirecting 57 commercial vessels in the region. In a statement issued on Friday, CENTCOM said US forces disabled the Iranian unladen tankers M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda before the vessels could enter a port of the Islamic Republic on the Gulf of Oman. According to CENTCOM, a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet operating from USS George HW Bush (CVN 77) fired precision munitions into the smokestacks of both unladen oil tankers, preventing them from reaching Iranian territory. "US Central Command (CENTCOM) enforced blockade measures against two Iranian-flagged unladen oil tankers attempting to pull into an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George HW Bush (CVN 77) disabled both tankers after firing precision munitions into their smokestacks, preventing the non-compliant ships from entering Iran," the statement read.

Earlier US Action Against Another Tanker

This comes after US forces on May 6 disabled another Iranian-flagged tanker, M/T Hasna, as it attempted to sail to an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM said an F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) targeted the vessel's rudder using several rounds from a 20mm cannon gun. "All three vessels are no longer transiting to Iran," the statement added.

CENTCOM Vows Full Enforcement of Blockade

Commenting on the operations, CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said US forces remain committed to enforcing the blockade measures against vessels entering or leaving Iran. "US forces in the Middle East remain committed to full enforcement of the blockade of vessels entering or leaving Iran. Our highly trained men and women in uniform are doing incredible work," Cooper said.

Scope and Impact of Ongoing Blockade

Following this announcement, CENTCOM stated that as part of the blockade, multiple commercial vessels have been disabled, with 57 ships redirected to ensure compliance as of Friday. CENTCOM announced this development in a post on X, where it shared photographs of USS Truxtun (DDG 103), USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), and USS Mason (DDG 87) operating in the Arabian Sea in support of the blockade efforts. It added that a total of four ships were disabled so far. "Photos of USS Truxtun (DDG 103), USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), and USS Mason (DDG 87) operating in the Middle East. The three destroyers are currently sailing in the Arabian Sea supporting the blockade against Iran. As of today, CENTCOM forces have redirected 57 commercial vessels and disabled 4 to prevent the ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports," the post added. In another update, CENTCOM said there are currently more than 70 tankers being prevented by US forces from entering or leaving Iranian ports as part of the blockade. "These commercial ships have the capacity to transport over 166 million barrels of Iranian oil worth an estimated USD 13 billion-plus," CENTCOM said in another post on X. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Mackenna to visit India from May 9-15

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:30:28 +0530

Francisco Perez Mackenna, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Chile will visit India from May 9-15, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Visit Highlights and Schedule

Mackenna will attend a programme in Delhi on May 10.

He will attend business events organized by Forum of Indian Food Importers and ASSOCHAM on May 11.

On May 12, he will hold talks with Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and will attend a business event hosted by CII and the CII Annual Business Summit 2026.

On May 13, he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, followed by a meeting with Goyal. He will then attend a Joint Meeting with Indian-Chilean Business Delegation.

On May 14, he will hold a meeting with Priyank M Kharge, Minister of Electronics, Information Technology and Biotechnology of the Government of Karnataka.

Context: India-Chile FTA and Critical Minerals

The visit comes as Goyal on January 30 said that India has signed eight Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) in the past four years with developed countries, whose per capita GDP is significantly higher than India's, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Addressing the ICAI World Forum of Accountants in Greater Noida, Goyal said these FTAs cover all of Europe, including the 27-nation European Union and the four-nation EFTA.

He further said that India is likely to conclude an FTA with Chile soon, which would help secure critical minerals essential to the country's growth and industrial needs. Speaking at the event, Union Minister Goyal said, "We have signed eight free trade agreements in the past four years with developed countries whose per capita GDP is much higher than ours. These FTAs cover all of Europe, the 27-nation European Union, and the four-nation EFTA. All of these countries need talent, skills, and young people for their economies to survive, let alone grow. We are engaged in active dialogue with many other developed nations, with different benefits to the nation. We will soon close an FTA with Chile, which will open up critical minerals for India." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

S Jaishankar hails India-Guyana health synergy on Georgetown stopover

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:01:34 +0530

India-Guyana Health Cooperation

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday shared a positive update from his stopover in Guyana, highlighting the growing synergy between India and the Caribbean nation in the healthcare sector. During a brief but productive stopover in Georgetown, Jaishankar met with Guyana's Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony. The meeting served as a pivotal moment to review the expanding map of medical and pharmaceutical collaboration between the two nations.

In a post on X, he said, "Delighted to meet Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony of Guyana during my stopover in Georgetown. Glad to learn of the progress in our bilateral health cooperation." Delighted to meet Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony of Guyana during my stopover in Georgetown. @fcsanthony1 Glad to learn of the progress in our bilateral health cooperation. @mohguyana pic.twitter.com/Zjd5SuyPQo — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

Historical Diplomatic Ties

Diplomatic relations between India and Guyana have existed since 1965, when a Commission of India was established in Georgetown in May 1965 and was made a full-fledged High Commission of India in 1968 after the country gained independence on May 26, 1966.

Jaishankar on India-Trinidad and Tobago Relations

Earlier in the day, he shared an op-ed he penned in the Trinidad and Tobago Daily Express newspaper.

In a post on X, he said, "'The India-Trinidad and Tobago relationship reflects a unique convergence of history, human connection, and shared aspirations. It has evolved from the movement of people to a partnership of purpose. Today, as we navigate an increasingly turbulent and unpredictable world, it is imperative that these ties must use their deep complementarities to evolve into a pillar of strength and stability for both our countries.' My Op-Ed in the Trinidad and Tobago Daily Express newspaper titled 'From shared journeys to a shared future'. ‘The relationship reflects a unique convergence of history, human connection, and shared aspirations. It has evolved from the movement of people to a partnership of purpose. Today, as we navigate an increasingly turbulent and unpredictable world, it is imperative that these… pic.twitter.com/4URZzmZjhV — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

Address in Suriname

He had also addressed representatives from various sections of Surinamese society on the theme 'Partnership for Progress'. My address to representatives from various sections of Surinamese society on the theme ‘Partnership for Progress’ #Suriname. https://t.co/Ms6xBl2SBG — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

EAM's Caribbean Tour

Jaishankar has embarked on a three-nation tour to Jamaica, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago as part of his official visit to the Caribbean nations. He is currently in a stopover to Guyana.

According to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit will take place from May 2 to May 10. MEA stated that the visit underscores India's close historical and cultural ties with the three countries, particularly due to the presence of Girmitiya communities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Israel unhappy with Pak mediating US-Iran talks, hails India ties

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:01:08 +0530

Yaniv Revach, Consul General of Israel in Mumbai said that Israel is not happy with the fact that Pakistan is mediating the war between the US and Iran. Revach, in a conversation with ANI, said that Israel has supported India significantly in its war against terrorism, especially during Operation Sindoor.

"Regarding the role of Pakistan mediating negotiations between the US and Iran, my government is not happy that Pakistan is the one mediating. However, Israel is not part of this negotiation. We are not negotiating with Pakistan. President Trump and the American government are leading the talks with Iran via Pakistan, and we trust the American government to take care of Israeli security interests in this matter," he said.

Israel Reiterates Support for India's Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Revach said that Israel will continue to support and work together with India when it comes to counter-terrorism. "Israel has supported India significantly in its war against terrorism, especially during Operation Sindoor and even before that when surgical strikes happened. Israel supported India not only with words but with strategic help as well. Israel will continue to support and work together with India when it comes to counter-terrorism. On April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, we saw how terrorists separated men from their families and killed them specifically based on their religion. This is unacceptable. India undertook Operation Sindoor to punish the perpetrators of terrorism across the border. Israel supports India's right to protect its civilians and stands shoulder to shoulder with India in the fight against terrorism," he said.

Revach said further that India and Israel, both have suffered from terrorism across its border since independence and hence cooperation between both is pertinent. "Since the independence of both India and Israel, both countries have faced terror attacks from across their borders. It is important for us to share experience and cooperation in defense, intelligence, cybersecurity, drones, and technology. All of that is now stronger than ever, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor," he said.

Israel Wants Stability, Not War, Amid Iran Tensions

Revach said that even today, danger is not fully over and Israel wants stability in the region. "Regarding the present situation with Iran, Israel, and the US, I don't think anyone can say today that the danger is fully over. Israel doesn't want war, the US doesn't want war, and no one in the region wants war. We want security, stability, and peace. Unfortunately, the Iranian regime continues to support different terrorist groups across the Middle East and openly threatens to destroy the State of Israel. It also damages moderate Arab countries in the region. The future depends mainly on Iran's actions," he said.

'Future Depends on Iran's Actions'

He further said that if Iran stops supporting terror in Lebanon and Iraq, the region will achieve stability. "If Iran reduces aggression and stops supporting terror organisations--such as the Shia militias in Iraq, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen--there will be a chance for stability. We hope that diplomacy will succeed because nobody wants a wider regional conflict. However, for decades, the Iranians have been financing, training, and supporting these organisations with advanced technology, which remains the main problem," he said.

Strait of Hormuz as a Point of Blackmail

He then said that Iran's usage of the Strait of Hormuz as a point of blackmail makes the situation even more complicated. "Moreover, the fact that the Iranians are using the Strait of Hormuz as a way to blackmail the U.S., Israel, or the Gulf states makes the situation more complicated. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy routes. Any attempt by Iran to block it threatens not only the global economy and oil supply but also the moderate countries in the Gulf. The world cannot accept the use of an international trade route for political blackmail. Freedom of navigation is important for all countries, including India, which depends heavily on stable energy supplies and free trade coming from the Gulf states," he said.

Conditions for Successful Diplomacy

He further said that peace negotiations cannot work if one side only gives demands without any compromise. "Real peace negotiations cannot work if one side only gives demands without any compromise. For diplomacy to move forward, there must be responsibility from all sides. The international community expects Iran to respect international rules, lower tensions, and stop supporting terror groups. Trust is built through action, not words alone. If Iran truly wants stability, it must show this through practical steps," he said.

Revach said that Iran is not only a threat to Israel and its neighbours, but also to the Gulf states and world trade. "There was no reason for Iran to attack the UAE or Oman a few days ago. We need to understand that Iran is not only a threat to Israel and its neighbours, but also to the Gulf states and world trade. When Iran attacks neighboring countries, they target civilian infrastructure--water facilities, airports, hotels, and finance centers--rather than military targets," he said.

Hezbollah Remains Biggest Obstacle to Peace

Hezbollah remains the biggest obstacle to peace even when dialogue with the Lebanese government is encouraged. "In recent years, Israel has built stronger ties with Gulf countries because many nations in the region want stability, development, and cooperation. While dialogue with Lebanon was encouraged, Hezbollah remains the biggest obstacle to peace. Hezbollah is part of the Lebanese political system and the government, but it operates as an armed terror organisation backed by Iran. For decades, Gulf states supported Lebanon, but they have stopped doing so because they realise that as long as Hezbollah controls the government, there is no option for peace or stability," he said.

He added that Israeli civilians have been living under constant threat for years now. "For many years, Israeli civilians in northern towns have lived under rocket and drone attacks, often having only a few seconds to run for shelter. Israel has the responsibility to protect its people, exactly like India has the responsibility to protect its citizens in the north. We must remove these threats. We still believe the people of Lebanon want peace; we have no conflict with them. The Middle East will only be able to move forward and promote coexistence if these terror organisations supported by Iran are eliminated," he said.

The comments come as Iran's military said that the US targeted an Iranian oil tanker in coastal waters and a second vessel near the Fujairah port in UAE, while US air strikes hit civilian areas in Bandar Khamir, Sirik and Qeshm Island in southern Iran. Iranian air defences were also active over western Tehran, as per Al Jazeera. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Canadian envoy Cooter meets Naveen Patnaik, visits NALCO in Odisha

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:00:31 +0530

Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to India, paid a courtesy call on Naveen Patnaik, Leader of Opposition in Odisha Assembly on Friday at Naveen Niwas in Bhubaneswar. In a post on X, Patnaik said, "It is a pleasure meeting H.E. Mr. Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to India. Thanked him for his courtesy visit." It is a pleasure meeting H.E. Mr. Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to India @CanadaInIndia. Thanked him for his courtesy visit. pic.twitter.com/lxgPHrSlgm — Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) May 8, 2026

Visit to NALCO

Cooper also visited National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO). In a post on X, NALCO said, "A high-level Canadian delegation, led by His Excellency Mr. Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to India, visited NALCO Corporate Headquarters in Bhubaneswar and interacted with Shri Brijendra Pratap Singh, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of NALCO along with Dr T.K. Pattanayak, Director (HR), Shri A.K. Singh, Director (Commercial), Shri Pranabjyoti Nath, IAS, CVO, and other senior officials. The discussions centered around opportunities for collaboration in Critical Minerals, sustainable resource development, and future plans. This visit also underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation and Sustainable Growth within the global mineral and mining landscape." A high-level Canadian delegation, led by His Excellency Mr. Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of #Canada to #India, visited #NALCO Corporate Headquarters in #Bhubaneswar and interacted with Shri Brijendra Pratap Singh, @CMDNALCO along with Dr T.K. Pattanayak, Director (HR),… pic.twitter.com/kTlepGmT95 — NALCO (@NALCO_India) May 8, 2026

Canada-India Strategic Partnership

Canada and India share over 75 years of diplomatic relations and deep people-to-people ties. Bilateral relations were formally designated as a "Strategic Partnership" in 2018, structured around Ministerial Dialogues on: Foreign Policy, Trade and Investment, Finance and Energy. At the officials level, there are regular working groups that focus on: Counter-terrorism, Security, Agriculture, Education, Science and Technology.

India is Canada's largest source country for most immigration categories, including 392,810 study permit holders with Indian citizenship in Canada in 2024. As of the 2021 federal census, there are more than 1.8 million Canadians of Indian origin. In India, Canada is represented by the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi. Canada has Consulates General in Bengaluru, Chandigarh and Mumbai, as well as trade offices in Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. India is represented in Canada by a High Commission in Ottawa and by Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

INS Sunayana in Chattogram to bolster India-Bangladesh naval ties

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 22:00:36 +0530

Strengthening Maritime Cooperation

The Commanding Officer of Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayana on Friday called on senior dignitaries in the Chattogram Naval Area after the ship arrived in Chattogram for a two-day visit as part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar deployment. In a post on X, the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh said, "Commanding Officer of INS Sunayana called on senior dignitaries in Chattogram Naval Area, including COMCHIT, COMBAN and ASD. The CO thanked the dignitaries for hosting the ship in Chattogram. In addition, areas of shared professional interest, including enhancing cooperation through exercises and training engagements, were discussed." https://x.com/ihcdhaka/status/2052719810879066533?s=20

According to official details, upon arrival, the Commanding Officer is undertaking a series of high-level diplomatic engagements, including calls on the Commander Chattogram Naval Area (COMCHIT), the Commander Bangladesh Naval Fleet (COMBAN) and the Area Superintendent Dockyard (ASD). These engagements are aimed at further strengthening maritime cooperation and professional exchanges between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy. The port visit forms part of a broader itinerary under IOS Sagar, which includes professional interactions, social engagements and commemorative events designed to deepen naval collaboration in the region. https://x.com/ihcdhaka/status/2052656263864131800?s=20

High-Profile Port Call

Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar entered Chattogram harbour today following a successful transit through the Bay of Bengal. This high-profile port call, part of the IOS SAGAR 2026 multinational deployment, is a testament to the steadfast partnership between the Indian Navy and the Bangladesh Navy, highlighting the strong bonds between the two neighbouring countries. The ship was welcomed into Bangladesh waters by BNS Ali Haider (F17) and was escorted to the harbour, the High Commission of India in Dhaka said in a statement. COMCHIT will host a welcome reception on the arrival evening for IOS SAGAR in the company of the top brass from the Bangladesh Armed Forces. Further, a deck reception will be hosted by IOS SAGAR the following evening to celebrate the culmination of a successful port call at Chattogram. https://x.com/ihcdhaka/status/2052716019274367085?s=20

Multinational IOS Sagar Deployment

Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayana arrived in Chattogram for a two-day visit as part of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar. On its second deployment, IOS Sagar is crewed by personnel of IOR partner countries representing 17 nationalities, including Bangladesh, cooperating, training and learning together. IOS Sagar endeavours professional growth, team building and combined maritime action to address Regional Challenges through Regional Collaboration. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US-Iran tensions a 'Schrodinger's War', 'ploy' by Trump: Expert

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 22:00:34 +0530

Foreign affairs expert Robinder Sachdev has characterised the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran as a "theatre of the absurd," describing a paradoxical state of "Schrodinger's War" where a ceasefire and active combat appear to exist simultaneously.

A Calculated 'Ploy' for China Visit

Speaking with ANI, Sachdev suggested that the current cooling of hostilities is less a move toward permanent peace and more a calculated "ploy" by US President Donald Trump to clear his diplomatic calendar ahead of a high-stakes visit to China next week. According to Sachdev, President Trump is downplaying recent ceasefire violations to ensure his upcoming meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping are not overshadowed by Middle Eastern turmoil.

"In some ways, this is the theatre of the absurd, which we are seeing with respect to the Iran war. Many things are happening which do not seem logical, but they are happening simultaneously. For example, there is a ceasefire, yet there is a war. President Trump seems to be downplaying any violations of the ceasefire because he really wants a deal with Iran before going to China," he said.

Sachdev said that by pushing for a temporary "pause" in the Iran conflict, Trump aims to clear the diplomatic runway for his high-stakes visit to Beijing, which is scheduled for May 14-15, 2026. "He would like the Iran matter solved, or at least at a pause, so that his meetings in China with Xi Jinping next week do not happen under the shadow of the Iran conflict. Otherwise, too much time will be spent talking about Iran when Trump wants to talk to China about agricultural exports, technology, and the trade deficit," he said.

Trump delayed this China trip once already (originally set for March) because of the Iran war. He is reportedly determined to avoid a repeat. If the Gulf is in active flames next week, his meetings with Xi Jinping will inevitably be consumed by crisis management and the global energy shock rather than his preferred agenda.

However, Sachdev warned that this de-escalation may have an expiration date. "Right now, holding the ceasefire is likely a strategy or a ploy to avoid being distracted from the China meetings. After those meetings are over, they could start bombing again," he said.

The Deadlock Over Enriched Uranium

Sachdev said that the crux of the deadlock remains Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium. While Trump has made the physical removal of the material a cornerstone of his demands, Sachdev believes Tehran views this as a non-starter. Trump demanded the physical removal of Iran's enriched uranium (nearly 10 tons). Iran views this as a "surrender" and will, at most, agree to a moratorium or dilution.

"The bottom line in this deal is the matter of enriched uranium. Trump claims Iran is on the way to a nuclear weapon, and he needs to remove that uranium from the country. It has become a matter of saving face because he has repeatedly talked about taking away their enriched uranium, whether it be 400 kilograms or the nearly 10 tons Iran actually possesses. I do not think Iran will ever agree to that condition," he said.

Sachdev argues that a one-page MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) will fail because both sides have reached existential limits. "Consequently, discussions are shifting toward opening the Strait of Hormuz. There were clashes yesterday, and the Iranians seem to be fighting back rather than being cowed, even though they are being hit effectively. A one-page MoU or draft agreement will not resolve these multiple matters. Trump is currently pushing for time and trying to corner them into a pause so the conflict does not overshadow his China visit," he said.

Iran's Red Lines and US Demands

Iran has realised that the Strait of Hormuz is its ultimate leverage. Despite "fire and fury" from the US and Israel, Iran's ability to control this energy chokepoint remains intact, and they are unlikely to negotiate away their dominance there.

"Trump has been applying psychological, military, diplomatic, and economic pressure. Economic pressure is the main force he is using against Iran. While Iran has been hurt and damaged badly and would very much want a deal, they have red lines they will not cross. One is the enriched uranium; they might agree to a moratorium or some dilution, but allowing the physical material to be taken out of the country would be seen as a surrender. Another red line is the Strait of Hormuz, which has emerged as a 'super weapon' during this war. Iran has realised its value, seeing that American and Israeli fire and fury cannot destroy this leverage. Iran will never give up its dominance over the Strait," he said.

Trump's "deal" requires Iran to limit its missile program and proxy influence, concessions Iran has consistently refused, even under heavy economic and military pressure. "Iran also refuses to limit the scope of its missile program, which is another major condition. Trump originally withdrew from the Obama-era agreement because it focused only on nuclear progress and ignored the range of missiles Iran was developing or their use of proxies. These remain the biggest demands for both the U.S. and Israel, leaving many gaps to be filled. Even if a deal is made, it will likely be half-baked because the entire Gulf region is in turmoil," he said.

Sachdev said that even with a deal, there will be simmering tensions beneath. "Israel has not achieved its objectives, such as regime change or the total elimination of the nuclear and missile programs. Even with a deal, the region will remain under a high degree of stress," he said.

China's Strategic Balancing Act

The expert notes that while Trump intends to press Xi to stop supplying dual-use components (drone motors, sensors, solid fuel), China's cooperation is far from guaranteed. "Iran is repeatedly showing that it is fighting back and testing America to see how far it will bend under provocation. This low-intensity skirmishing could continue for the next couple of weeks as Trump prepares to travel. He wants to de-escalate operations in the Gulf for at least 30 days, so his visit is not mired in conflict. During the meeting with Xi Jinping, Trump's agenda will include pressing China to stop supplying dual-use components to Iran, such as motors for drones, sensors, batteries, and solid fuel," he said.

China knows Trump is desperate for a "win" before the summit. Xi Jinping is expected to demand a high price for any reduction in support for Iran, such as the lifting of US sanctions on high-end machinery and semiconductor chips "China is playing an important role in the background. Recently, the Chinese and Iranian foreign ministers held a joint call with the Saudi foreign minister. Remember, China brokered a peace agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran three years ago, though that agreement currently seems weak. China knows that if the situation in the Gulf escalates, it will weaken Trump's ability to negotiate. If Trump asks Xi to stop exports to Iran, Xi will likely demand his own piece of the bargain, such as lifting American sanctions on chips and high-end machinery transfers to China," he said.

He said that China wants Iran to survive because if Iran falls, it will create a long-term energy security problem for China. "Ultimately, China wants Iran to survive and thrive. If Iran falls to American demands and becomes like Venezuela, it creates a long-term energy security problem for China. If the U.S. controls the region, Iranian oil--like Venezuelan oil--becomes unavailable to China. By closing these taps, the U.S. threatens China's energy security. Therefore, China will never want Iran to collapse. While China projects itself as a balanced statesman on the world stage, it continues to engage in its own strategic manoeuvres behind the scenes to protect its interests," he said.

Iran Responds on Social Media

https://x.com/IRIMFA_SPOX/status/2052757812825002016?s=20

The comments come as Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Esmaeil Baqaei, appeared to mock Trump by saying that disjointed, delusional tweets no longer hold any sway over reality. In a post on X, he said, "Vermin-like nocturnal scheming and naive euphemisms such as 'a light slap" can do nothing to erase the profound disgrace born of narcissism, greed, reckless miscalculation, and lawless irresponsibility. The consequences of this whimsical adventurism and roguish behaviour have now become clear to the entire world. Disjointed, delusional tweets no longer hold any sway over reality--though, as ever, "the deeper they sink into folly, the more inventive they become in justifying it." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Balochistan: 5 new 'enforced disappearances' reported, 5 return home

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 21:00:32 +0530

Reports of alleged enforced disappearances and later releases continue to emerge from various areas of Balochistan, with five new cases reported in Quetta and Barkhan, even as five previously missing individuals have reportedly returned home, according to a report by The Balochistan Post (TBP).

New Disappearance Cases Reported

Two teenage boys were reportedly detained during late-night raids on Airport Road in Quetta on May 6. Family members claimed that Pakistani security personnel entered their residence around 1:00 am and took both boys to an undisclosed location.

In another case, 21-year-old student Muibullah, son of Abdul Baqi and a resident of Kardgap in Mastung district, was reportedly detained on April 12 from Munir Ahmed Road in Quetta. Relatives alleged that personnel linked to the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) were involved in the detention. His whereabouts are still unknown.

Meanwhile, in Barkhan district, two men were reportedly taken from their homes during the early hours of May 3. Family members alleged that CTD personnel detained the two individuals, after which no further details about their whereabouts were provided, as cited by the TBP report.

Return of Previously Missing Individuals

Along with the newly reported disappearance cases, reports have also surfaced regarding the return of several previously missing individuals. According to local sources, Abdul Ghaffar Baloch and Ali Raza Baloch, who had reportedly disappeared from Brewery Road in Quetta on April 28, were released on May 5. Similarly, three men, Lal Khan Qambrani, Munawar Qambrani, and Siraj Qambrani, who had allegedly gone missing from Qambrani Road in Quetta on April 24, were reportedly found on Airport Road on May 4.

Official Response and International Concern

Pakistani authorities have not issued any official statement regarding the reported detentions, releases, or the allegations raised by families and local activists. International human rights organisations have repeatedly expressed concern over reports of enforced disappearances in Balochistan, while Pakistani officials have consistently denied having any policy of unlawful detentions, TBP reported.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

China Admits Its Engineers Were Inside Pakistan Air Base During Conflict With India

Anish Kumar — Fri, 08 May 2026 20:43:44 +0530

New Delhi: In what amounts to a stunning admission, China has officially confirmed for the first time that its engineers provided on-site technical support to Pakistan during last May's military conflict with India – a claim India had repeatedly made. China's state broadcaster CCTV on Thursday aired an interview with Zhang Heng, an engineer from the Aviation Industry Corporation of China's (AVIC) Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute – the very facility that builds China's most advanced fighter jets. Zhang was stationed at a Pakistani air base during the conflict.

India Said It. China Confirmed It.

India had on multiple occasions asserted that China was actively involved in supporting Pakistani operations during the May conflict.

For months, those claims were brushed aside. Now, straight from Beijing's own state media, comes the confirmation India had been waiting for.

Zhang himself described the conditions on the ground: “At the support base, we frequently heard the roar of fighter jets taking off and the constant wail of air-raid sirens. By late morning in May, the temperature was already approaching 50 degrees Celsius. It was a real ordeal for us, both mentally and physically.”

That's not a support role from thousands of kilometres away. That's boots on the ground.

The J-10CE Factor

Pakistan's Chinese-supplied J-10CE fighters – the export variant of the 4.5-generation J-10C – are now at the centre of the story.

During the conflict, at least one of these jets is reported to have shot down a French-made Rafale fighter operated by India, the Chinese engineer claimed.

It was a historic first on two counts – the J-10CE's first confirmed air combat kill, and the first time a Rafale had ever been downed in combat.

AVIC engineer Xu Da, who was also embedded with Pakistani forces, called the J-10CE their “child.” He said: "We nurtured it, cared for it, and finally handed it over to the user. And now, it was facing a major test."

He added: "As for the outstanding results the J-10CE achieved, we weren't very surprised... it felt inevitable."

The Numbers Tell the Story

Pakistan is the only known foreign operator of the J-10C. It ordered 36 of the jets along with 250 PL-15 air-to-air missiles back in 2020.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, a staggering 80 per cent of Pakistan's arms imports between 2021 and 2025 came from China.

In other words, Pakistan didn't just fly Chinese jets in that conflict. It flew Chinese jets, armed with Chinese missiles, with Chinese engineers on standby at the base.

India’s Assertion Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, the deputy chief of Indian Army made the most direct statement at the FICCI 'New Age Military Technologies' event on July 4, 2025. He had said: “We had one border and two adversaries, actually three. Pakistan was in the front. China was providing all possible support... When DGMO-level talks were on, Pakistan had the live updates of our important vectors, from China.”

His revelations were described as the first public official acknowledgment of China's real-time support to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.

Shared History, Values Unite India & Israel, Says Envoy Reuven Azar

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:31:22 +0530

Highlighting how the shared history, culture and values of Israel and India are what bring the two nations together, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar on Friday celebrated the countries' deep bond and connections by inaugurating a new mural for singer Zubin Mehta in Delhi's Lodhi Colony.

Azar, in a conversation with ANI highlighted how Jews have always felt safe in India because it has always been a society of acceptance of the other. "It is always important to remind us that culture, heritage, and values are what bring us together. India and Israel are both old nations and modern countries, and throughout this short history of our modern countries, we've been able to make personal connections, national connections, and this cultural connection through music, which is something very unique that we are here to celebrate today," he said.

A Bond of Shared Values and Acceptance

Azar said that India and Israel are capable of continuing this great bond. "We know that Jews always felt very safe in India. They continue to feel safe because India has always been a society of acceptance of the other. We are so privileged to enjoy that through Jewish communities that have been living here for many years and now since the state of Israel was established. We are capable of continuing this great bond between our nations and celebrating it through culture and many other things that we're doing together," he said.

"We stand together; we've been working together to create the capabilities that we need to overcome the challenges, and I'm sure we will prevail," he said.

Celebrating 90 Years of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Israel

Azar, while speaking at the occasion, said that it was a special day of celebrating 90 years since the establishment of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Israel. "Rachel and I are very proud to be here. This is a very special day because we are celebrating the amazing cultural cooperation between Israel and India that has been going on for many, many years. It is a special day also because we are celebrating 90 years since the establishment of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Israel, which has a very special story," he said.

An Orchestra Born From a Mission to Save

Azar explained that in 1936, Bronislaw Huberman, a Jewish musician gathered Jewish musicians from all over Europe to save them from extermination. "Ninety years ago, in 1936, thanks to the efforts of a very famous Jewish musician called Bronislaw Huberman, the orchestra gathered famous Jewish musicians from all over Europe. This was a period in which darkness was looming over Europe and Jewish musicians were being fired and persecuted. In order to save the heritage of music, he invited these musicians to be part of the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra. At that time, it was the orchestra of the Land of Israel. By doing that, he saved them and their families from extermination by the Nazis," he said.

Azar said that an Indian musician, Zubin Mehta has been working with the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra. Coincidentally, he was born in 1936. "In that same year, 1936, another famous musician was born: Zubin Mehta. For 70 years, he has been working with the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra. Their performances all over the world have been so famous that it was impossible to book them unless you convinced them about two years ahead to visit your country or honor your Philharmonic Orchestra," he said.

Zubin Mehta's Enduring Partnership

Azar also shared a fond memory when in Romania, the President of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania, Silviu Vexler wished to commemorate the brutal killing of Jewish musicians in Bucharest. "I want to share that in 2024, when I was serving in Romania, the president of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania, Silviu Vexler, had the task of trying to convince the Israeli Philharmonic to perform in Bucharest. He wanted to commemorate the brutal killing of Jewish musicians in Bucharest in 1941, who were taken out in the middle of a concert and shot in the street," he said.

Vexler wished Mehta to perform at the ceremony and he heeded to the request. "He wanted the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra to come and perform the same concert at the Athenaeum in Bucharest with Zubin Mehta, and that is exactly what they did. In October 2024, they commemorated 145 years of Jewish citizenship in Romania and continued the concert that was cut short in 1941," he said.

A Musical, Personal, and Cultural Bond

Azar said that the bonds between India and Israel are thus musical as well as personal. "We are talking here not just about music or the bond between Israel and India, which has been amazing for the last few decades. We are not only celebrating culture as the best connection between peoples all over the world, but also a very special relationship and a very special orchestra that had a leading role in culture around the world, alongside a partnership with a musician who was born in the same year that the Israeli orchestra was established," he said.

Acknowledgements

Azar extended his gratitude to relevant authorities for making the event possible. He said, "We are here thanks to the kind cooperation of the Municipal Council of New Delhi, which agreed to have this mural here. I want to thank the artists, the company that has been working with us on this, our cultural attache, Avital, and the entire team of the embassy." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Lula-Trump meeting an 'important step' to strengthen US-Brazil ties

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:31:20 +0530

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Thursday described his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House as an "important step" towards strengthening ties between the two largest democracies in America.

Speaking to reporters at the Brazilian Embassy in Washington after the talks, Lula said discussions focused on trade, tariffs, organised crime, critical minerals and national sovereignty. He stressed that Brazil and the United States could deepen cooperation while safeguarding their respective national interests.

"The good relationship between Brazil and the United States is a demonstration to the world that the two largest democracies on the continent can serve as an example," Lula said.

Trade and Tariffs

On trade, Lula noted that the United States was Brazil's biggest trading partner during much of the 20th century before China expanded its economic presence in Brazil after 2008. He said American companies often miss opportunities in Brazilian infrastructure projects, while Chinese firms actively participate in tenders for highways and railways, as per the reports of Brasil 247.

Lula also defended multilateralism amid ongoing global trade disputes and criticised unilateral tariff measures. He highlighted Brazil's trade agreements and negotiations with blocs and countries, including the European Union, EFTA, Singapore, Canada and Japan.

The Brazilian leader rejected claims that Brazil imposes high tariffs on American goods, stating that the average tariff charged by Brazil is only 2.7 per cent. He proposed the creation of a bilateral working group to discuss trade and tariff issues within 30 days.

Cooperation Against Organised Crime

The meeting also covered cooperation against organised crime, drug trafficking and arms smuggling. Lula called for a global partnership involving countries from Latin America and beyond, saying no single nation could tackle organised crime alone.

Critical Minerals and National Sovereignty

On critical minerals, Lula said Brazil is open to partnerships with companies from the US, China, Europe and Japan, while maintaining that democracy and national sovereignty remain "non-negotiable" for Brazil.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's Nepal visit called off abruptly

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:00:29 +0530

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's planned visit to Nepal due to start from Monday, has been postponed at the last minute, sources confirmed ANI.

According to two sources from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, Foreign Secretary Misri's visit has been called off unexpectedly.

"Preparations were made for the visit the visit of Indian Foreign Secretary who was due to land Kathmandu on Monday for two-day visit but the trip has been called off unexpectedly," one of the official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed ANI.

Reason for Postponement

"Communication was made from the Indian side about the postponement of the visit. No official reasons have been stated for it," the official added, seeking anonymity.

Sworn-in as the Prime Minister, Balendra Shah (Balen) on March 27, after the successful conduct of the election- six months after the Gen-Z uprising, India had planned to send Foreign Secretary to Kathmandu.

"The Indian Foreign Secretary was to extend a formal invitation to the Nepali Prime Minister for an official visit to India. But there was no proper response from the Nepal PMO for the meeting," official from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu confirmed ANI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first congratulated Balendra Shah and held a telephonic conversation after his party Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured landslide victory.

Two months after the formation of the government, Misri was invited by Nepali counterpart Amrit Rai, who planned to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and discussing various aspects of the two countries' multifaceted relations, the official from Nepal's Foreign Ministry confirmed.

The Indian side had reportedly considered the visit important in the context of engaging with the new political leadership in Kathmandu. However, the visit was stalled after it became clear that high-level meetings, including with the Prime Minister, would not be possible during the trip.

Border Dispute Connection Denied

The cancellation of the trip comes at a time when India and Nepal are on a loggerhead on claims over Lipulekh.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected that the cancellation of the visit and the border dispute are not related.

"Nepal and India have very close relations. One issue cannot hamper other issues pertaining to the relation between the two countries," Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri, Spokesperson at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nepal, said in a media briefing. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

GalaxEye's OptoSAR satellite 'Drishti' is alive and kicking in orbit

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:32:30 +0530

Bengaluru-based startup GalaxEye, which launched Mission Drishti into orbit earlier this week, has said that the world's first OptoSAR satellite is "alive and kicking." Weighing 190 kg, the first privately built synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging satellite in India is helping redefine the country's space capabilities with technology that has major global, commercial, and defence significance.

Unlike conventional optical Earth observation satellites, SAR satellites can image the Earth day and night and through cloud cover by using radar signals. The unique "OptoSAR" architecture allows Drishti to give an image of any place on earth anytime in any weather, effectively "fusing the best of both worlds."

'Drishti', which integrates Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, was launched onboard a Falcon-9 rocket of Elon Musk's SpaceX firm and successfully placed in orbit on May 3.

Addressing Initial Orbit Concerns

In an interview with ANI, Suyash Singh, CEO and Co-Founder of GalaxEye said, "The satellite is alive and kicking. We're still in the commissioning phase. It's all on track." Singh's remarks come in the wake of reports from open-source intelligence handles tracking the satellite's initial movements that seemed to suggest that the satellite could be slowly tumbling in orbit.

The IIT-Madras-alumnus who led the launch of the satellite clarified that the mission is progressing exactly as planned through its vital early stages, marking a historic leap for the Indian private space sector. Responding to observations from independent trackers that the satellite appeared to be tumbling, Singh explained that commissioning strategies vary significantly depending on the sensor payload. "People think there are optical satellites which need to be determined on day one. Our satellite is kind of different, so we don't follow the same strategy effectively," Singh said expressing confidence that the mission remains "fingers crossed" for continued success.

The 'OptoSAR' Technical Breakthrough

Unlike standard optical satellites, SAR technology enables imaging through thick clouds and total darkness, providing critical data for national security, maritime tracking, and disaster relief. Explaining the technical audacity of the mission, Singh noted that cynics originally doubted the possibility of combining sensors that traditionally look at different angles, with cameras typically pointing downward (nadir) and radar at an angle.

Singh detailed that the GalaxEye challenged this "Space 101" textbook logic by utilizing Off-Nadir Angle (ONA) imaging, synchronizing both sensors to look at the same 20-degree angle. T "We were aware of the fact that most of the imaging, even in the highest resolution satellites that exist today, is done at an angle called ONA (Off Nadir Angle) imaging. Radars anyway look at an angle. If I make optical look at the same angle and synchronise them, I will be able to build this particular sensor stack," Singh said.

Before reaching orbit, this technology underwent rigorous R&D using drones, a notoriously unstable environment for radar. The team developed advanced mathematical equations and digital signal processing to correct motion errors during more than 200 test flights.

Commercial Strategy and Future Vision

The resulting commercial value lies in consistency; with 70 per cent of the Earth typically covered by clouds, GalaxEye's hybrid approach ensures data is always available. "Our best sell to our customers is consistency," GalaxEye CEO said. "Rain or shine, day or night, It'll give you one data" he said. By combining SAR with optical imagery, GalaxEye makes complex data intuitive for commercial users in sectors like agriculture and mining.

Future Constellation

Looking ahead, the company aims to expand its footprint with a constellation of around 10 satellites over the next three and a half years. This expansion is designed to bring the revisit rate for any location on Earth down from seven days to a daily frequency.

"The goal is to absolutely take the entire Earth Observation market globally and build the number one Earth Observation company from India," Singh said.

Government and Strategic Partnerships

GalaxEye has also tie-ups with ISRO, NSIL, and IN-SPACe. It signed a landmark reseller agreement with NSIL( NewSpace India Limited). As ISRO's commercial arm, NSIL will market and sell GalaxEye's unique OptoSAR data globally, effectively making GalaxEye the first private Indian satellite operator to formally use the government's global sales machinery.

"We have recently partnered with NSIL for selling our data through their partners as well. So I think the government is now really, really gearing up and helping startups like us to kind of move forward and move fast," Singh said.

IN-SPACe and iDEX Support

IN-SPACe acted as a "game-changer" by providing regulatory clearances and opening up ISRO's high-end testing facilities to the GalaxEye team, which was critical for a startup with limited capital.

iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence): Provided funding and facilitated technical challenges that helped the team gather requirements and refine their sensor stack for strategic and defense use cases. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Nepal asserts claim over Lipulekh amid Kailash Mansarovar route

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:32:22 +0530

Nepal has called for the resolution of the Lipulekh territorial issue through diplomatic channels with India while maintaining claims over it. Nepal's reiteration over the disputed territory comes in wake of the recent opening of the route to the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage via Lipulekh Pass. The pilgrimage, organised by the Indian Government, is scheduled to operate from June to August 2026.

In a press conference organised in Kathmandu on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri reiterated that the claims by Nepal are based on evidence and the Sugauli Treaty. "Regarding the issue of Lipulekh, we have already made our stand public. Through Nepali territory Lipulekh, India and China's planned Kailash Mansarovar (pilgrimage), we had issued a stand on 3rd May, 2026. Everyone is well aware and informed about it. The 1816 AD Sugauli Treaty has made the demarcation that the areas lying on the East of the Mahakali- the Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani is Nepali territories and the Government of Nepal is clear and firm on this fact. From the Nepali territory, the Lipulekh- the planned pilgrimage of Kailash Mansarovar, the Government of Nepal has expressed its concern and stance to both India and China through the diplomatic channels again," Chhetri said.

Further adding, "Earlier as well, the Government of Nepal had raised concern with the Indian government to not move ahead with road construction or expansion, trade along the route or any pilgrimage through the area again. Along with, we have formally informed China that Lipulekh is a Nepali territory in the note. The cordial relation that exists between India and Nepal, on the basis of the treaties and agreements signed- the facts, maps and evidences, the Government of Nepal is always committed for the resolution of the border issues through the diplomatic channel."

Meanwhile, India, responding to a press query, said the route to Mansarovar is a long-standing issue.

Nepal's Diplomatic Stance

The Government of Nepal on Sunday had announced that it sent diplomatic notes to India and China over the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage via Lipulekh, stating formal objection over the plan.

Responding to the media queries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nepal reiterated that the Lipulekh Pass, along with Limpiyadhura and Kalapani, lies within its territory based on the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli.

The ministry said Nepal has consistently raised concerns with India regarding activities such as road construction, trade, and pilgrimage routes in the disputed area, urging that such actions not be carried out unilaterally. It also clarified that China has been officially informed of Nepal's position on Lipulekh being part of its territory.

Reaffirming its commitment to diplomatic resolution, the ministry said Nepal remains open to addressing border issues with India through dialogue based on historical agreements, maps, and evidence, while maintaining friendly bilateral relations.

India-China Agreement Sparks Objection

India and China had agreed to reopen border trade through Lipulekh Pass, a point located 56 kilometres inside Nepal's western frontier in Limpiyadhura. The agreement was made during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to India. Both the countries made the agreement during a meeting between the Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Point nine of the joint communique mentions the resumption of border trade. "Both sides agreed to the re-opening of border trade through the three designated trading points, namely Lipulekh Pass, Shipki La Pass and Nathu La Pass."

Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs had objected the agreement of India and China to open trade route via Lipulekh asserting claim over the land. Issuing a statement, the Ministry asserted claims over the land objecting the unilateral move by China and India.

Responding to the release by Nepal's Foreign Ministry, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected Kathmandu's claim and reiterating that trade through the route existed for decades. The statement released by Randhir Jaiswal, the Spokesperson for the MEA claimed that the trade had been disrupted in recent years due to COVID and other developments, and both sides had now agreed to resume it.

On Nepal's territorial claims, Jaiswal said such claims were "neither justified nor based on historical facts and evidence," describing them as "untenable."

The 2020 Map Controversy

Earlier in the year 2020, Nepal amended constitution incorporating new political and administrative map in preamble of the constitution. The new map included the tri-junction of Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh which has remained a disputed area between Nepal and India.

Nepal's updated map prepared incorporating the missing territories was submitted to the Ministry of Land Management by the Department of Survey which claims to have taken accurate scale, projection and coordinate system. It was publicly released on 20 May 2020 after a go-ahead signal from the Cabinet meeting on 18th of May same year. The department has collected a map drawn during the Treaty of Sugauli, another brought from London, receipts of payment of land revenues and the order issued on by the then Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher, as evidence to claim the land belongs to Nepal. The earlier map issued in 2032 BS had left Gunji, Nabhi and Kuri villages which now has been included in the lately revised map adding on 335 square kilometers of its land.

Tensions had flared in between New Delhi and Kathmandu in 2020 after issuance of political map by Nepal on mid of May including the tri-junction, which India earlier had included in its November, 2019 issued map. Diplomatic ties between the nations severed further after the inauguration of road linking Kailash Mansarovar via Lipulekh on May 8, 2020 after which Nepal handed over diplomatic note to India objecting the move.

Prior to the handover of the diplomatic note, Nepal also had strongly objected over India's unilateral move of constructing the road. Nepal said it has "consistently maintained" that as per the Sugauli Treaty (1816), "all the territories east of Kali (Mahakali) river, including Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipu Lekh, belong to Nepal."

Historical Context and Previous Agreements

Indian Defence Ministry had said the Border Road Organisation (BRO) in Uttarakhand has connected Kailash Mansarovar route to Lipulekh pass, which will provide connectivity to border villages and security forces.

India and China discussed about the Lipulekh pass for the first time in a decade, post-2015's China visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During Modi's visit, then Chinese Premier Li Keqiang agreed to expand trade via Lipulekh. The joint statement issued on May 15, 2015, included the agreement in point 28. The 2015 decision triggered strong protests in Nepal as the agreement was reached without its consultation, despite the pass lying within Nepali territory. The Nepal government formally objected at the time, sending diplomatic notes to both countries.

With India and China working to improve strained relations following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, both sides have once again agreed to open trade through Lipulekh. Nepal's official map includes Lipulekh within its territory. In 2023, China released a new map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura as part of India, further complicating the dispute. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US bill to block foreign adversaries from buying American farmland

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:31:27 +0530

John Moolenaar, Chairman of the Select Committee on China, has introduced the Protecting US Farmland and Sensitive Sites from Foreign Adversaries Act, according to a press release issued by the SCCCP. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen U.S. national and food security by addressing loopholes in federal oversight related to foreign land acquisitions.

According to the SCCCP release, foreign adversaries such as China have for years been able to acquire American farmland and properties located near sensitive national security sites with minimal scrutiny, and in some cases, without any review at all. The release stated that such purchases create risks for critical infrastructure, military preparedness, and the stability of the US food supply chain.

Food Security is National Security

"Food security is national security, and we cannot allow foreign adversaries like China to buy up American farmland near our most sensitive military and critical infrastructure sites. This bipartisan legislation closes dangerous loopholes, presumptively bars foreign adversaries from purchasing land, and ensures the United States has the tools to stop these farmland deals before they threaten our security. It also implements the Trump Administration's America First Investment Policy and USDA's Farm Security Action Plan by giving the administration the authority needed to protect the United States farmland and real estate near sensitive facilities. This is a top concern of the American people and I hope Congress will act quickly to pass it into law," Moolenaar said, as quoted in the SCCCP release.

The release also cited remarks by Adam Savit, Director for China Policy at AFPI and former Senior Advisor for National Security at the US Department of Agriculture. Savit stated that foreign adversaries, particularly China, have taken advantage of gaps in federal laws to acquire land near US military bases, critical infrastructure, and food supply locations. "We must treat food security as national security, and the federal government needs the jurisdiction and the tools to stop these transactions before they happen, not to negotiate mitigation agreements after the fact. States have led on this issue for years, and federal law should reinforce their efforts. Legislation is needed to close these loopholes and protect critical American infrastructure and American communities, and the provisions of this bill do just that," Savit said, as highlighted in the SCCCP release.

Key Provisions of the Bill

According to the release, the bill grants the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) the authority required to review real estate transactions involving foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. It also categorises the purchase of US farmland and critical infrastructure by foreign adversaries as posing an unacceptable national security risk, with limited exceptions. The legislation further creates a new classification called "elevated risk real estate transactions," mandating reviews of acquisitions involving farmland, ports, telecommunications infrastructure, and properties located near military bases and intelligence facilities. Additionally, the bill incorporates food security and agricultural biotechnology concerns into CFIUS review procedures and ensures that the Secretary of Agriculture plays a central role in evaluating such transactions, according to the SCCCP release. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Taiwan warns Chinese app AMap is a 'serious national security threat'

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:31:00 +0530

Taiwan's top security officials have warned that the Chinese navigation application AMap may pose a serious national security threat after an internal probe found that the app continues gathering and transmitting sensitive user information to servers in China, as reported by The Taipei Times.

According to The Taipei Times, National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen informed lawmakers during a session of the legislature's Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee that investigators identified nine cybersecurity concerns out of 15 reviewed categories linked to the Chinese-developed app.

AMap's Alarming Data Collection Practices

The investigation revealed that AMap allegedly keeps collecting personal data even after users shut down the application. The information gathered includes contact lists, call histories, live audio recordings, video feeds and location-related data, all of which are reportedly transmitted back to servers located in China.

Tsai warned lawmakers that although many international apps collect user information, AMap's policies are particularly alarming because the platform openly states in its user agreement that data may be shared with third parties. He further stated that Chinese firms are legally bound under China's national security legislation to cooperate with state authorities and provide access to corporate and user information whenever requested.

Official Response and Regulatory Action

Tsai described the app as carrying "relatively high" cybersecurity and national security risks for Taiwan. The bureau's report has been forwarded to Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs, which is conducting a separate review expected to conclude next month, as highlighted by The Taipei Times.

The intelligence chief clarified that the National Security Bureau would respect the ministry's authority regarding any public announcement or regulatory action connected to the case. Taiwan has already classified AMap as a cybersecurity risk under the Cybersecurity Management Act, resulting in a ban on the application's use across government agencies, as reported by The Taipei Times.

Taiwan-China Tensions Affect Travel

In a similar vein, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has said it will not remove the ban on domestic travel agencies promoting package group tours to China until the "personal freedom and travel safety" of Taiwanese travellers can be guaranteed amid criticism that followed a recent deadly bus crash in China, according to a report by Central News Agency (CNA). (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Uyghur advocacy, youth initiatives take center stage in WUC brief

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:30:42 +0530

Uyghur advocacy efforts, cultural initiatives, and international human rights discussions continued this week amid ongoing concerns over repression, forced labour, and the protection of Uyghur identity and heritage, according to the latest weekly brief issued by the World Uyghur Congress (WUC).

WUC Engages Uyghur Youth in Advocacy

The WUC said that beginning April 29, 2026, WUC Vice President Zumretay Arkin participated in a workshop organized by the Uyghur Youth Initiative (UYI) for Uyghur youth. According to the WUC weekly brief, Arkin also conducted a session focused on United Nations advocacy and public speaking, where she shared practical strategies for effective advocacy and explained how young advocates can better identify and engage audiences while conducting human rights work. As cited by the WUC brief, the program included a simulated session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, providing participants with hands-on advocacy experience. The event reportedly brought together Uyghur youth from various countries and featured a cultural program celebrating Uyghur identity and heritage.

Doppa Day as Cultural Resistance

The WUC weekly brief also highlighted global celebrations of Uyghur Doppa Day on May 5, 2026. According to the organization, the occasion honors the Doppa, one of the most recognizable symbols of Uyghur culture and identity. The WUC stated that at a time when Uyghur language, traditions, and cultural heritage face increasing repression, wearing the traditional cap has become both a celebration of heritage and what it described as a quiet act of resistance against assimilation policies. According to the WUC, Uyghur Doppa Day was first conceived in 2009 by Tahir Imin, who had previously been imprisoned for religious activities. The organization noted that although the celebration was initially supported and broadcast by Chinese state media, official observance reportedly ceased following the launch of China's Strike Hard Campaign Against Violent Terrorism in 2014 amid escalating repression against Uyghurs in East Turkistan.

Report Details 'Architecture of Coercion'

The weekly brief further noted that on May 6, 2026, researcher Adrian Zenz published a new article titled Architecture of Coercion examining what he described as modern forms of state-imposed forced labour. According to the WUC, the paper argues that governments increasingly impose labour through surveillance systems, political pressure, economic dependency, and restrictions on freedom rather than solely through detention camps. The WUC said the article introduces concepts such as "structural coercion" and "structurally engineered involuntariness," describing how states create conditions in which individuals appear to accept work voluntarily while lacking meaningful ability to refuse. According to the weekly brief, the paper identifies East Turkistan as one of the clearest examples of such systems, citing labour transfers, agricultural mobilization, surveillance, and coercive state planning as elements of what it called an integrated architecture of repression. The report also highlighted implications for global supply-chain investigations, sanctions, and forced labour legislation.

Appeal to US Ahead of China Visit

The WUC weekly brief additionally reported that on May 7, 2026, the organization issued a press release urging U.S. President Donald Trump to prioritize Uyghur human rights during his upcoming visit to China scheduled for May 15. According to the WUC, the organization expressed concern over potential expansion of U.S.-China cooperation in sectors such as rare earth materials and electric vehicles, industries that it said have been linked to Uyghur forced labour in global supply chains. The WUC called on President Trump and the U.S. government to raise concerns over what it described as the ongoing Uyghur genocide and press Beijing to end forced labour practices, mass detention, family separation, transnational repression, and cultural destruction in East Turkistan. As cited by the WUC brief, WUC President Turgunjan Alawdun stated that international condemnation must be accompanied by concrete action and urged the United States to continue global accountability efforts through enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and stronger protections for Uyghur diaspora communities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

China sends more military aircraft, vessels near Taiwan on consecutive days

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 17:01:45 +0530

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense detected the presence of 12 sorties of Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels and two official ships around its territorial waters as of 6am (local time) on Friday. Of the 12, 10 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ.

In a post on X, the MND said, "12 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 10 out of 12 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded." 12 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 2 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 10 out of 12 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the… pic.twitter.com/ATCL2dwyik — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) (@MoNDefense) May 8, 2026

Earlier on Thursday, the MND detected the presence of 22 sorties of Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels and an official ship operating around itself. Of the 22, 18 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ.

In a post on X, the MND said, "22 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 18 out of 22 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded." 22 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 18 out of 22 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern, central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored… pic.twitter.com/lWQzmmXlMm — 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, ROC(Taiwan) (@MoNDefense) May 7, 2026

The China-Taiwan Dispute

China's claim over Taiwan is a complex issue rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a viewpoint embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements. Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its government, military, and economy. Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India.

Historical Origins

China's claim to Taiwan originates from the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga. However, Taiwan remained a peripheral region under limited Qing control. The key shift came in 1895, when the Qing ceded Taiwan to Japan after the First Sino-Japanese War, marking Taiwan as a Japanese colony for 50 years.

After Japan's defeat in World War II, Taiwan was returned under Chinese control, but the sovereignty transfer was not formalised. In 1949, the Chinese Civil War resulted in the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland, while the Republic of China (ROC) retreated to Taiwan, asserting its claim to govern all of China. This led to dual sovereignty claims: the PRC over the mainland and the ROC over Taiwan. Taiwan has operated as a de facto independent state but has avoided declaring formal independence to prevent military conflict with the PRC. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India's holistic migration approach prioritises emigrant welfare: MoS

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:30:54 +0530

India's Holistic Approach to Migration

India has adopted a "holistic approach" to migration governance, placing the "welfare, protection and empowerment of emigrants at its core," affirmed Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh. Speaking at a special event organised by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN on the margins of the second International Migration Review Forum (IMRF), Singh highlighted India's "pioneering" digital initiatives designed to facilitate mobility and safeguard its citizens abroad.

"The Indian migration story is both vast and dynamic. We have a diaspora of over 34 million people spread all across the globe, encompassing more than 200 countries, and our global community has served to connect economies, cultures, and ideas through many centuries," he stated. The Minister noted that the Indian diaspora's contributions, ranging from remittances and investments to knowledge exchange, are vital to India's growth as well as the development of their host nations.

He explained that India's framework treats migration as a "continuum" that spans "pre-departure preparation, safe transit, dignified employment, and eventual return and reintegration back into our societies."

Pioneering Digital Initiatives

Singh showcased the "pioneering initiative" of the 'e-Migrate' platform to the global audience, demonstrating how India is harnessing digital innovation. The mobile application provides seamless access to essential services, including tracking application status, identifying registered or blacklisted recruitment agents, and filing of grievances."

Commitment to Legal Migration

India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, observed that the IMRF gathering arrives at a time when "migration and migrants have become a politically contested terrain." He reaffirmed that India remains "firmly committed" to legal and regular migration pathways. "With an Indian diaspora of 34 million spread almost in all parts of the world, we have a firm and vital interest in ensuring regular migration pathways are encouraged, solidified, and strengthened. Yet we are also very clear that the distinction between migrants and refugees should be very, very clear," Parvathaneni said.

The Ambassador further highlighted the application of the India digital stack in creating population-scale solutions for migrant welfare. He expressed India's readiness to partner with other nations to help them adopt similar open-source digital platforms for the effective management and protection of their migrant communities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Sampriti' art exhibition in Dhaka celebrates India-B'desh ties

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:01:25 +0530

The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre of the High Commission of India in Bangladesh launched a 10-day art exhibition, titled "Sampriti", at the IGCC premises in Dhaka. The exhibition was launched on Thursday and showcases artworks created during a two-day art camp by 33 eminent contemporary Bangladeshi artists, many of them ICCR scholars, including Rafiqun Nabi, Monirul Islam, Abdus Shakoor, Abdus Sattar, Farida Zaman, Ranjit Das, Jamal Ahmed, Naima Haque, and several other distinguished Bangladeshi artists.

The event coincided with the 165th birth anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, whose timeless literary and artistic legacy continues to inspire generations across the world.

Shared Cultural Traditions as Bedrock of Relationship

Inaugurating the exhibition, High Commissioner Pranay Verma described the shared artistic and cultural traditions between India and Bangladesh as the bedrock of their relationship. He noted that art remains one of the most powerful mediums through which the bonds between the peoples are expressed and renewed, transcending boundaries and creating spaces for dialogue, empathy, and harmony.

The High Commissioner paid tribute to Gurudev Tagore as the most iconic figure connecting India and Bangladesh and embodying the ideals of creativity, humanism, and cultural harmony that continue to enrich their bilateral ties.

Artists Hope for Deeper Linkages

Speaking on the occasion, senior artists Professor Rafiqun Nabi and Monirul Islam expressed confidence that "Sampriti" would inspire more artist exchanges between India and Bangladesh and further deepen cultural linkages.

Fostering Friendship Through Cultural Exchange

The exhibition reflects the continued commitment of the IGCC and the High Commission of India to fostering cultural exchanges and strengthening India-Bangladesh friendship and people-to-people ties. The exhibition "Sampriti" celebrates cultural harmony, mutual understanding, and artistic collaboration between India and Bangladesh. The art camp and the exhibition were curated by Professor Sanjoy Chakraborty, faculty member of Fine Arts, Dhaka University.

Background: The 'Sampriti' Art Camp

The exhibition is being organised as a sequel to the "Sampriti" Art Camp, which was held on April 10 and 11 to mark the 77th Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). For over seven decades, ICCR has served as a vital cultural bridge between India and the world through its initiatives in art, education, music, literature, and academic exchange, strengthening bonds of friendship and mutual understanding among nations.

Tribute to an Enduring Legacy

The High Commissioner also paid tribute to eminent Bangladeshi artist and ICCR scholar Tarun Ghosh, who passed away in April. One of his works has been included in the exhibition in honour of his enduring artistic legacy.

Cultural Performances and Exhibition Details

The evening was enriched by Rabindra Sangeet performances by Professor Shahnaz Nasrin Ila of the Dhaka University Music Department.

The exhibition will remain open for public viewing from May 8 to 17 at IGCC. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kirti Vardhan Singh holds 'productive meeting' with UN chief Guterres

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:01:21 +0530

In a high-level diplomatic engagement, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh held a "productive meeting" with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the UN headquarters. The meeting took place on Thursday on the sidelines of the second International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM). Singh, who has been in New York since Sunday, is heading the Indian delegation for the forum, which is being conducted under the UN General Assembly's oversight from May 4 to 8. "Had a productive meeting with Secretary-General of the United Nations HE Mr Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the IMRF," the Union Minister of State shared in a post on X.

Minister's Engagements at IMRF

Throughout the day, Singh maintained a robust schedule, delivering India's national statement during the IMRF plenary session. He also headlined a specialised side event curated by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN, focused on "Leveraging Digital Innovation in Migration Governance: The e-Migrate Experience of India". Addressing a gathering of UN ambassadors, senior officials, and various heads of delegations at a reception held at the Permanent Mission of India, Singh advocated for institutional reform. He "called for a more agile, effective, and impactful United Nations, equipped to meet the challenges of our time," according to his statement.

'Operation Sindoor' Commemoration

The day's proceedings also included a solemn commemorative event hosted by the Indian Permanent Mission to mark the first anniversary of "Operation Sindoor". The military operation was initiated by India in May last year to dismantle terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. The Permanent Mission of India conveyed its appreciation for the Minister's attendance and "for his guidance as we keep working for furthering and defending our national interest" on the global stage at the United Nations. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Outrage in Balochistan Over Alleged Custodial Killing of Labourer

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 13:00:23 +0530

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has strongly condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a young Baloch labourer, accusing Pakistani authorities of continuing a "systematic campaign" of enforced disappearances and custodial killings in Balochistan.

In a post shared on X, the rights group said that Ajmal, a resident of Nasirabad in Turbat district's Kech area, was forcibly disappeared from Gwadar on August 21, 2025. According to the organisation, Ajmal belonged to a poor family and was the sole breadwinner supporting his relatives through daily wage labour.

'Grave Violation of Human Rights'

The committee stated that for 256 days, Ajmal's family lived in uncertainty and anguish, hoping for his safe return. However, their hopes were shattered after his body was reportedly recovered, triggering outrage among Baloch activists and human rights advocates.

The BYC described the incident as a "grave violation of human rights and human dignity," asserting that taking a person's life without trial and later returning the body to the family reflected what it called the worsening climate of repression in Balochistan.

Call for International Intervention

Raising serious questions over the continued pattern of disappearances in the province, the group asked how many more families would be forced to endure the pain of waiting for loved ones who never return.

Calling for urgent international intervention, the BYC appealed to global human rights organisations to take immediate notice of what it termed the worsening human rights situation in Balochistan. The organisation demanded justice and accountability.

Worsening Climate of Repression

The region of Balochistan remains afflicted by a concerning trend of enforced disappearances, where some victims are eventually released, while others face extended detention or fall victim to targeted killings. These violations of fundamental rights have heightened insecurity and distrust among the local population.

The ongoing threat of arbitrary arrests and the lack of accountability continue to destabilise Balochistan, eroding efforts to restore peace, justice, and public trust in state institutions. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran's digital jab: AI meme shows Trump stuck in Strait of Hormuz

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:34 +0530

Iran Deploys AI-Generated Memes to Mock Trump

As geopolitical friction continues to mount over the Strait of Hormuz amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict, Iranian diplomatic missions have turned to the digital battlefield, deploying AI-generated memes and parody videos to lampoon US President Donald Trump.

In a recent display of digital satire, the Iranian embassy in Hungary shared a viral AI-generated clip featuring Trump in a comical struggle. The parody depicts the President attempting and failing to navigate a miniature Tesla Cybertruck-style vehicle through a cramped passage, a deliberate metaphor for the strategically vital waterway. The 34-second production draws its creative inspiration from a cult-classic cinematic moment in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery. Mirroring the iconic scene where the protagonist finds a luggage cart hopelessly wedged in a narrow corridor, the AI rendition shows Trump confidently entering a chokepoint symbolising Hormuz, only to find himself trapped. The footage captures a clumsy series of frantic manoeuvres that result in the vehicle becoming hopelessly stuck. The embassy accompanied the footage with a taunting caption, "Trump's attempt to pass through the Strait of Hormuz!" Trump’s attempt to pass through the Strait of Hormu!#StraitOfHormuz#PersianGulf pic.twitter.com/ycRF78vywV — Iran Embassy Hungary (@IRANinHUNGARY) May 7, 2026

Broader Digital Offensive

The choice of a Tesla-inspired vehicle is widely interpreted as a satirical nod to Elon Musk's futuristic Cybertruck aesthetic, adding a contemporary layer of internet humour to the provocation. The clip has resonated across social media platforms, amassing over 8 lakh views as of Friday morning. This digital offensive appears to be part of a broader strategy, as Iranian embassies continue mocking the US President over his policy decisions.

Cultural Rebuttal in India

On April 24, Iran's diplomatic missions in India launched a sharp cultural rebuttal after Trump endorsed comments labelling India as a "hell-hole on the planet". The Iranian Consulate in Mumbai took to X to suggest a "cultural detox" for Trump. "Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr Trump. It might just reduce the random bakwaas (nonsense). Kabhi India aa ke dekho, phir bolna," the post declared, using the colloquial term for nonsense to dismiss the remarks.

Targeting US Delegation in Russia

Just 24 hours prior, the Iranian consulate in Russia targeted a delegation led by US Vice President JD Vance. Following the suspension of a planned trip to Pakistan due to stalled ceasefire negotiations, the mission shared a video of a pole vaulter failing to clear the bar and crashing back to their starting point. The post was pointedly captioned, "JD Vance's trip to Pakistan." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar slams vaccine hoarding, highlights India's global support

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:30:25 +0530

In a sharp reflection on global ethics during the pandemic, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar contrasted India's humanitarian approach with the self-serving actions of wealthier nations that prioritised vaccine hoarding over global equity. Addressing representatives from various sections of Surinamese society, he pointed out the stark disparity in vaccine distribution that emerged during the height of the crisis, noting that some nations "stockpiled vaccines" for up to "eight times the population" while the developing world was left behind.

India's 'Vaccine Maitri' Initiative

The Minister's address underscored India's role as a reliable global partner that stepped up when others retreated into isolationism. "Now, at that time, India happened to be a country which rose to the occasion. We supplied vaccines to a very large number of countries and to international initiatives," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated, highlighting the nation's "Vaccine Maitri" initiative. The Minister, who arrived in Suriname on Wednesday as part of an ongoing three-country tour of the Caribbean from May 2 to 10, framed this effort as a defining moment for Indian diplomacy.

A Mission of Global Solidarity

Launched on January 20, 2021, the Vaccine Maitri mission stood as a landmark humanitarian endeavour by India to distribute COVID-19 vaccines globally, a move that solidified its reputation as a "responsible global power" and the definitive "pharmacy of the world."

This ambitious project was steered by the ancient philosophical guiding light of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that "the world is one family," and resulted in the delivery of nearly 300 million doses to approximately 100 nations by 2023. The initiative was built upon a principled policy of taking a primary role in safeguarding global health, leveraging India's vast manufacturing strength to serve the greater good.

Diplomatic Goodwill and Responsible Leadership

Even as various parts of the globe succumbed to the pressure of vaccine nationalism, the Indian government remained steadfast, rejecting what was viewed as an "insular approach to foreign policy" in favour of international solidarity. This selfless commitment generated immense diplomatic goodwill, particularly among developing and low-income countries that found themselves sidelined by more affluent nations during the crisis.

Defining what constitutes responsible leadership on the world stage, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that India's actions were rooted in this larger sense of duty. "So when I said one of the characteristics of a good partner is a nation which is able to harmonise its national interests with a commitment to global good," he added.

By prioritising the ethos that "the world is one family" through this practical application of selfless assistance, India significantly amplified its soft power, earning widespread acclaim from global institutions like the United Nations and the QUAD. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India to contribute 17% to global growth, a pillar of stability: S Jaishankar

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:29 +0530

Emphasising India's burgeoning role as a pillar of global economic stability, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the nation's significant contribution to international prosperity during an address to representatives from various sections of Surinamese society. The minister arrived in Suriname on Wednesday as part of an ongoing three-country tour of the Caribbean, scheduled to run from May 2 to 10.

India's Major Contribution to Global Growth

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed to recent data to underscore the scale of India's impact, stating, "If you look at the IMF expectation of global growth this year, India contributes 17 per cent of the total global growth." This assessment aligns with figures released by the IMF, which indicate India is set to account for a substantial 17 per cent of global real GDP growth in 2026, maintaining its status as the fastest-expanding major economy on the planet.

IMF Top 10 Contributors

The data places India at the forefront of the IMF's top 10 contributors, notably ahead of the US, which is anticipated to contribute 9.9 per cent to the world's real GDP growth. Other key players include Indonesia at 3.8 per cent, Turkiye at 2.2 per cent, and Saudi Arabia at 1.7 per cent. Vietnam follows with 1.6 per cent, while Nigeria and Brazil are both projected to contribute 1.5 per cent each. Rounding out the list, Germany holds the 10th position with a 0.9 per cent contribution, as other European nations fail to secure a spot in the top 10.

A Tool for Global Stability

The Minister articulated a vision of growth that transcends national borders, framing India's industrial and economic ascent as a tool for global stability. "Today, for us, as we grow, we are very conscious. It's not just about us. We help to de-risk the international economy. We help to give more possibilities," External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar remarked, adding that the country is "creating more options" for its global allies.

He explained that this expansion serves as a catalyst for international cooperation, noting, "Now, when a country like us, an economy like us, builds more capacities, we also open up options for other partners."

IMF's Upgraded Forecast for India

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has notably adjusted its economic growth forecast for India for 2025, raising it by 0.7 percentage points to 7.3 per cent. In its recent World Economic Outlook update, the IMF noted that this upward revision reflects "strong momentum in the fourth quarter of the current financial year ending on March 31, 2026."

Looking further ahead, the IMF has projected 6.4 per cent growth for the 2026-2027 financial year. Even with this anticipated moderation, the agency emphasised that India remains a "key driver of growth among emerging market and developing economies."

In a move to further integrate with the world market, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that India is actively "adding to market possibilities and market access," while simultaneously "negotiating and concluding more free trade agreements for countries to avail of it."

Global Outlook and Domestic Conditions

On a broader scale, global growth is expected to remain stable at 3.3 per cent in 2026, bolstered by "easing trade tensions, accommodative financial conditions, and a surge in investment linked to technology, particularly artificial intelligence." Regarding domestic conditions, the IMF indicated that inflation in India is "expected to go back to near target levels after a marked decline in 2025," largely due to "subdued food prices," which should provide a significant boost to local demand.

Cautionary Note on AI

However, the report also contained a note of caution, warning that "AI-driven productivity gains could lead to a pullback in investment and tighter global financial conditions," potentially creating "spillover effects for emerging economies."

Expanding India's Global Footprint

Reinforcing the idea that India's strategic outlook is truly global in scope, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stressed the importance of an expansive presence. "And along with that, we are trying to create a global footprint so that our impact on the international economy and the de-risking of the world is as impactful, it's far-reaching as possible. So, for us today, really, we don't think of any region as too far off," he stated. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar in Suriname, bats for 'Partnership for Progress' on world stage

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:30:33 +0530

Jaishankar Emphasises Partnerships for Global Progress in Suriname

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the theme 'Partnership for Progress' in the Surinamese capital on Friday, where he emphasised India's burgeoning role on the world stage and the necessity of collaborative efforts for global advancement.

Sharing details of the event on social media platform X, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated, "Spoke on the theme 'Partnership for Progress' at Paramaribo this evening. Thank FM Melvin Bouva for his presence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Suriname for organising the programme." Spoke on the theme ‘Partnership for Progress’ at Paramaribo this evening. Thank FM Melvin Bouva for his presence and the @MOFASur for organising the programme. Made the case that a tough world nevertheless requires progress. And that is best achieved through partnerships.… pic.twitter.com/RtE9Am5Evk — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

India's Role as a Trusted Partner

During his address, the minister "made the case that a tough world nevertheless requires progress. And that is best achieved through partnerships."

He further "highlighted the characteristics of a trusted partner who can reconcile national interest with global good."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also "described India's role in global politics in that context, focusing on our development partnerships, global workforce, first responder record, and new initiatives."

He asserted that "it is this India that will partner Suriname in its growth trajectory and jointly write the next chapter of the India-Suriname story."

Partnership in Action: From Symbolism to Support

In a symbolic gesture at the diplomatic residence, the minister participated in an environmental drive, noting he was "very glad to plant a sapling at India House Suriname under #EkPedMaaKeNaam." Very glad to plant a sapling at India House #Suriname under #EkPedMaaKeNaam pic.twitter.com/9mWAugvR0W — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 8, 2026

This engagement follows the minister's visit on Thursday, where he handed over a fruit-processing facility in Paramaribo, established through Indian financial support. The facility was equipped with machinery funded by a USD 1 million Small and Medium Enterprises grant previously announced by the minister in 2025.

Speaking at the inauguration alongside Surinamese counterpart Melvin Bouva and Agriculture Minister Nike Noersalim, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar remarked, "This project also serves to underline a larger message of India as a partner of Suriname and of the Global South."

He noted that India's commitment to "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," signifying the world as one family, is expressed through tangible projects. "In the times to come, as Suriname advances in its quest for progress and prosperity, India will always be a reliable partner," the minister added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran Claims 'Great Victory' Nearing in Confrontation with US, Israel

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:01:30 +0530

Iran's Vice President Signals 'Great Victory'

Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has claimed that the Islamic Republic will soon be marking a "great victory" in its ongoing confrontation with the United States and Israel, as reported by the state-run Press TV.

Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref voiced defiant optimism on Thursday regarding the international constraints currently facing the country. He signalled that the period of economic and diplomatic isolation was nearing its end, suggesting an imminent shift in the nation's fortunes. "We will soon hold our victory celebration, and the sanctions and pressures that have been imposed on the Iranian nation over recent years will be lifted with the great victory of the Iranian nation," Aref was quoted as saying. His remarks underscored a conviction that Tehran is on the verge of overcoming the systematic external pressures applied against it in recent years.

Exchange of Fire in Strait of Hormuz

These pronouncements were made against a backdrop of renewed hostilities, as both nations engaged in an exchange of fire within the strategic Strait of Hormuz on the same day. Tehran has levelled accusations against Washington for allegedly violating the standing ceasefire, while American officials have maintained that they do not intend to escalate the situation and that the truce remains operational.

Trump Downplays Clashes, Maintains Ceasefire

Adding to the tension, US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to the Iranian leadership, cautioning that "we'll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently" should a formal agreement not be reached in the near future.

In a phone conversation with Rachel Scott, Senior Political Correspondent for ABC News, the President insisted that the ceasefire is still in effect despite the recent skirmishes. He sought to downplay the significance of the American military strikes, characterising the retaliatory actions as "just a love tap." When specifically questioned by Scott on whether the reported escalation signalled a collapse of the truce, Trump responded, "No, no, the ceasefire is going. It's in effect."

Earlier, the President utilised Truth Social to confirm that three American destroyers had "transited very successfully" out of the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that the vessels were fired upon by Iranian forces during the passage but claimed that the opposing naval boats were "completely destroyed," while missiles and drones targeting the US assets were intercepted.

Details of US Military Strikes Emerge

Providing further context on the nature of the American response, Fox News Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin, citing a senior US official, reported that the military had conducted strikes on strategically vital maritime corridors. These strikes followed reports of multiple explosions near the Qeshm port and Bandar Abbas in southern Iran.

In a series of updates on X, Griffin stated that the official confirmed the strikes but emphasised that the operation was not a precursor to a wider conflict. "US military just carried out strikes on Iran's Qeshm Port and Bandar Abbas: Senior US official tells me, but this is not a restarting of the war," Griffin posted. The official reportedly reiterated that the action was restricted in its objectives and should not be viewed as a breakdown of current de-escalation efforts, stating it was "not a restarting of the war or end to the ceasefire."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

EU pushes for investment pacts in landmark India free trade deal

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:00:28 +0530

In a significant push for deeper economic integration, the European Union's Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin, advocated for the inclusion of an investment liberalisation chapter within the landmark free trade agreement (FTA) between the two powers. Delphin also called for the rapid finalisation of a separate investment protection pact to solidify the legal ground for businesses.

The 27-nation bloc and India recently marked a breakthrough on 27 January by announcing the conclusion of negotiations for the FTA, a deal widely celebrated as the "mother of all deals".

Under the proposed terms, a vast array of Indian products will gain duty-free entry into the European market, while Indian consumers can expect a price drop for European luxury vehicles and wines.

Currently, both partners are immersed in the legal vetting of the expansive, 1,000-page document, a process slated for completion this July. On Thursday, the Ambassador noted that the pact is anticipated to be signed within this calendar year, with a projected implementation date in early 2027.

Highlighting the scale of the partnership, he stated that the agreement impacts roughly two billion people, representing "a quarter of the global population and a quarter of the global GDP."

Unfinished Business: The Investment Gap

Despite the progress, Delphin pointed out that the current framework leaves certain stones unturned. "The FTA does not cover all relevant areas. And we need to look at what I call unfinished business and beyond FTA. And investment is the main case in point," he remarked during a Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) gathering.

He emphasised that while European firms are eager to expand their Indian footprint, the right environment must be fostered. "And European companies not yet present in India want to come and are ready also to invest more. But you need to create the favourable conditions. So this FTA, and it has already been noticed by the specialists, doesn't have a chapter on investment liberalisation in non-services sectors," he explained.

Delphin suggested that such a provision would have acted as a significant "boost and encouragement to the private sector." Looking ahead, he proposed that both sides "should revisit this area two years down the road after the entry into force of the FTA, as envisaged in the review clause, to see whether we can find common ground and address this missing element of the investment liberalisation chapter."

Call for Parallel Agreements

Beyond the FTA, the Ambassador stressed the urgency of concluding the Investment Protection Agreement (IPA). This secondary pact is intended to provide investors with a "solid legal framework and an additional incentive to expand their footprint in India." He noted that both political leaders and the corporate world are eagerly awaiting this development.

Furthermore, Delphin highlighted the need to settle a third parallel track: the agreement on geographical indications (GIs). He stated this would "also give a boost to trade by ensuring proper protection of Indian and the EU's iconic products, whether Darjeeling tea or Roquefort cheese."

With approximately 6,000 European companies already operating in India and an FDI stock exceeding 140 billion euros, the Ambassador remains bullish on the future. "So the opportunities arising from the FTAs are pretty clear, and now the challenge is to turn these opportunities into achievements," he said.

India's Response and Future Plans

Responding to the call for future expansion, India's chief negotiator, Darpan Jain, confirmed that the government is attentive to the investment concerns. "That is something which we plan to work on in future," Jain remarked, noting that officials are currently "working" on the matter.

Economic Impact and Mutual Benefits

The FTA promises a massive reduction in trade barriers, with the EU set to slash duties on over 99 per cent of Indian goods, while India will provide enhanced access for nearly 97 per cent of EU exports.

"So we will have, on the EU side, European customers benefiting from cheaper Indian textiles, leather, footwear, gems, jewellery, tea, coffee, spices, marine products, to name a few. And Indian businesses will see lower prices on EU industrial goods like machinery, aircraft, or medical equipment," Delphin detailed.

With bilateral trade already exceeding USD 190 billion, the Ambassador cited historical data showing that trade typically grows "twice as fast" under an FTA. He predicted that EU goods exports to India could potentially double by 2032, ensuring that "Indian companies will be well positioned to significantly increase their sales to the EU." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India, UAE review strategic partnership, identify new initiatives

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 08:00:27 +0530

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with UAE'S Minister of State and Special Envoy for India Reem Al Hashimy, identified new initiatives to further deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries as they conducted a detailed review of the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation during Misri's official visit to the UAE.

According to an official release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Foreign Secretary met Reem Al Hashimy and Khaldoon Al Mubarak, MD and CEO, Mubadala Investment Company, as part of his official visit to the country on Wednesday. The two sides positively assessed progress made on decisions taken during the January 2026 visit of UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India and the February 2026 visit of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Review of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

According to the MEA release, discussions covered ongoing bilateral cooperation in areas including trade, investment, economic cooperation, energy, connectivity, defence and security, fintech, health, education, culture and people-to-people ties. The review was built upon outcomes from the 16th Joint Commission Meeting and the 5th Strategic Dialogue, which were co-chaired in December 2025 by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"Foreign Secretary held a detailed review of the full spectrum of the bilateral cooperation with H.E. Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State and Special Envoy for India. They positively assessed the progress made on the decisions taken during the visit of the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India in January 2026 and the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in February 2026," the release read.

"They reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, economic cooperation, energy, connectivity, defence and security, fintech, health, education, culture and people to people connect, building on the outcomes from the 16th Joint Commission Meeting and 5th Strategic Dialogue co-chaired by EAM and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of UAE in December 2025. They also identified new initiatives to further deepen the bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," it added.

Regional and Global Issues Discussed

The two sides also exchanged views on the prevailing situation in West Asia and other regional and global issues of mutual interest.

India-France-UAE Trilateral Framework

During the visit, Misri additionally participated in a trilateral meeting under the India-France-UAE framework alongside Reem Al Hashimy and Martin Briens, Secretary General of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France. According to the MEA, the three sides reaffirmed their commitment to the trilateral partnership and agreed on a structured roadmap with defined timelines aimed at advancing cooperation under the framework. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

New Indian envoy Vikram Doraiswami presents credentials in Beijing

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 08:00:21 +0530

Envoy Presents Credentials in Beijing

The newly appointed Indian Ambassador to China, Vikram Doraiswami, presented a copy of his credentials to Assistant Foreign Minister and Director-General of the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Hong Lei.

According to a post on X by the Embassy of India in Beijing, the ceremony took place in Beijing on Wednesday, formally marking the presentation of credentials by the Indian envoy to the Chinese foreign ministry official. "Ambassador Vikram Doraiswami presented a copy of his credentials to Assistant Foreign Minister and Director-General of the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, HE Hong Lei, in Beijing on May 7, 2026," the Embassy said.

Commencement of Diplomatic Assignment

Earlier on Monday, Doraiswami commenced his assignment as the Ambassador of India to China by paying floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. The Embassy of India in Beijing said that he also paid tributes to Rabindranath Tagore here. "Vikram Doraiswami commenced his assignment as Ambassador of India to China by paying floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Jintai Art Museum in Chaoyang Park today. He was accompanied by the Museum's Curator, Mr Yuan Xikun. Ambassador also paid tributes to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore at the Embassy," the post on X read.

On Sunday, Doraiswami was received by Charge d'Affaires Angeline Premalatha and Deputy Director, Asia Department of MFA Li Jianbo upon his arrival in Beijing.

Geostrategic Discussions and Preparations

Doraiswami received credentials for his assignment as the Ambassador of India to China from President Droupadi Murmu last week. In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in China said, "Vikram Doraiswami receives credentials from the Hon'ble President of India for his assignment as Ambassador to the People's Republic of China."

Doraiswami also called on the Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday and discussed geostrategic issues, bilateral engagement and measures to strengthen existing mechanisms amid ongoing sensitivities in India-China relations. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US confirms Iranian missile, drone attacks on naval vessels in Hormuz

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 05:30:26 +0530

US Confirms Attack, Reports No Damage

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) on Friday confirmed that Iranian forces launched missiles, drones and small boat attacks targeting US naval vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz while stating that no US assets were hit during the incident.

In a statement, the Central Command said that American naval forces intercepted what it described as "unprovoked Iranian attacks" and carried out self-defence strikes while US Navy destroyers were moving through the Strait of Hormuz en route to the Gulf of Oman.

CENTCOM said the vessels involved included USS Truxtun (DDG 103), USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), and USS Mason (DDG 87), which were transiting the international sea passage when Iranian forces reportedly launched multiple missiles, drones and small boats.

It further stated that the US forces neutralised incoming threats and also targeted Iranian military infrastructure allegedly involved in the attacks, including missile and drone launch sites, command-and-control facilities, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance nodes.

"No US assets were struck. US Central Command (CENTCOM) eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible for attacking US forces, including missile and drone launch sites; command and control locations; and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance nodes," the statement read.

The US military added that it "does not seek escalation" but remains prepared to defend American forces in the region.

Iran Claims 'Significant Damage' in Retaliatory Strike

This comes after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy Command, in a series of posts on X, claimed that US naval vessels were targeted following what it described as a violation of a ceasefire and an earlier attack on an Iranian oil tanker near Jask port in southern Iran.

The IRGC alleged that a coordinated operation involving anti-ship ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and suicide drones was carried out against US destroyers, claiming "significant damage" and asserting that American vessels retreated from the Strait of Hormuz.

"Following the violation of the ceasefire and the terrorist U.S. army's aggression against an Iranian oil tanker of the Islamic Republic of Iran near Jask port, and the approach of the terrorist U.S. army's destroyers to the Strait of Hormuz, during a highly extensive and precise combined operation employing various types of anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles as well as suicide drones," the post read.

"With intense explosive warheads, fire was executed toward the enemy destroyers. Intelligence surveillance indicates significant damage to the American enemy, and three enemy invading ships quickly fled the Strait of Hormuz area," it added.

The Iranian claims come a day after the US Naval Forces fired on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman as part of its ongoing naval blockade against the Islamic Republic, claiming that the vessel failed to comply with the instructions from the American forces in the region.

According to a statement released by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday, US forces acted after the vessel, identified as M/T Hasna, did not comply despite repeated warnings while transiting international waters toward an Iranian port. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US Sanctions Iraqi Official, Militias for Aiding Iran's Oil Scheme

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:32 +0530

The United States on Thursday (local time) imposed sanctions on an Iraqi oil ministry official and senior Iran-backed militia leaders, accusing them of facilitating oil smuggling operations and supporting terrorism-linked activities in Iraq.

The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said in a statement that it was targeting individuals and entities involved in exploiting Iraq's oil sector and undermining the country's stability while benefiting Iran and its allied militias.

Details on Sanctioned Iraqi Official

According to OFAC, Iraq's Deputy Minister of Oil, Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly, was sanctioned for allegedly abusing his position to facilitate the diversion of Iranian oil for sale, which was then sold for the benefit of the Iranian government and Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq. The Treasury Department alleged that Al-Bahadly played a key role in enabling oil smuggling networks by granting export rights and supporting schemes that mixed Iranian oil with Iraqi crude for sale in international markets. The US also accused him of falsifying documentation related to oil shipments.

Iran-Aligned Militias Designated

The sanctions also target senior figures from Iran-aligned militia groups, including Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada and Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, both of which the US has designated as terrorist organisations. The US Treasury said these groups have been involved in attacks against American personnel, diplomatic facilities, and businesses in Iraq, while acting in ways that undermine Iraqi sovereignty and its democratic process.

"Like a rogue gang, the Iranian regime is pillaging resources that rightfully belong to the Iraqi people," US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was quoted as saying. "Treasury will not stand idly by as Iran's military exploits Iraqi oil to fund terrorism against the United States and our partners," he added.

Sanctions Impose Asset Freeze, Warn Financial Institutions

OFAC said the sanctions were issued under Executive Orders targeting Iran's petroleum sector and designated terrorist organisations. As a result of the action, all assets of the designated individuals and entities under US jurisdiction are frozen, and US persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with them. The US also warned of possible secondary sanctions on foreign financial institutions involved in facilitating such activities. The move comes as part of continued US efforts to increase economic pressure on Iran and disrupt financing networks linked to Tehran and its regional allies amid the growing tension between the two sides over the West Asia crisis. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran reviewing US diplomatic memo delivered via Pakistani mediators

Asianet News Central — Thu, 07 May 2026 22:30:53 +0530

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei on Thursday confirmed it is currently processing a series of diplomatic communications from the United States, delivered through Pakistani intermediaries, according to Press TV. Despite the active review, Baghaei stated that no formal response has been issued as Tehran weighs its next move. This comes after Al Jazeera had reported earlier today that while there is no official deadline for the response, Pakistani mediators had said that they are expecting the reply from the Iranian side today.

Iran's Conditions for Talks

Iran is concerned with the cessation of war on all its fronts for now, adding that no nuclear talks are on the table. Iran wants guarantees directly from the UN Security Council, then they want sanctions to be lifted, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. If that is achieved, in a second phase, they're said to be ready to discuss their nuclear programme, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Reported US-Iran Framework Details

Earlier on Wednesday, a report by Axios, citing several American officials and sources acquainted with the negotiations, noted that the progress is being viewed as the most significant development since the onset of the conflict, though a definitive resolution has not yet been secured. The reported framework consists of a "one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding" designed to trigger an immediate ceasefire and launch a "30-day negotiation window" to hammer out a broader settlement. Under these terms, Iran would reportedly agree to a short-term pause in nuclear enrichment. In exchange, the United States would initiate the removal of sanctions and the unfreezing of billions of dollars in Iranian assets. Furthermore, both nations would work to reduce tensions and ease transit constraints within the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic Channels and Next Steps

The report notes that many of the stipulations are "conditional on the outcome of further negotiations," suggesting that the path forward remains fraught with the risk of "renewed conflict or a prolonged period of uncertainty." American officials indicated to Axios that President Donald Trump's recent choice to de-escalate military activities in the Strait of Hormuz was prompted by these diplomatic inroads. The diplomacy is being spearheaded by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who are reportedly communicating with Tehran both through direct channels and third-party intermediaries. If formalised, the memorandum would officially "declare an end to the war" and shift the venue for technical discussions to either Islamabad or Geneva. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India hands over passion fruit facility to Suriname as development partner

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 03:00:20 +0530

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (local time) handed over an India-assisted Agro Passion Fruit processing facility in Suriname's capital of Paramaribo as part of his ongoing three-nation tour to the Caribbean, reaffirming India's commitment as a trusted development partner to the nation and the Global South.

A Symbol of Value Addition and Self-Reliance

Jaishankar, accompanied by Suriname's Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva and Agriculture Minister Mike Noersalim, described the project as a symbol of value addition, self-reliance and inclusive growth.

"India's Development Partnership in Action! Joined FM Melvin Bouva and Agriculture Minister Mike Noersalim at the handing over of the Agro Passion Fruit processing facility in Paramaribo, Suriname. Built with Indian assistance, this project is a commitment to value addition and self-reliance. Reaffirms India as a trusted development partner of Suriname," the EAM stated in a post on X.

Speaking at the event, Jaishankar said India's agricultural transformation over the last decade has been driven by policy support, technology, resources and value addition, adding that the journey was not only about food and economic security but also about achieving inclusive growth.

He noted that the project originated following discussions during the India-COFCOR ministerial meeting, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach towards the Global South, adding that the fruit processing facility would help empower local enterprises, create opportunities for farmers and support rural women in Suriname.

"Agriculture journey is not just a journey towards food and economic security. It is also a journey of more inclusive growth. And that is exactly the message today that I would like to reiterate as we gather here to hand over what is to me a very important micro- and small-enterprise development project concerning the food processing industry of Suriname," the EAM said.

'Human-Centric' Partnership

The EAM said Suriname's decision to prioritise a fruit processing installation reflected its focus on strengthening local enterprise and value addition. He also welcomed the Surinamese government's efforts to promote passion fruit cultivation through incentive schemes and noted that the machinery could be adapted for processing other fruits in the future.

"We completely understand why, when this offer of projects was made to our CARICOM partners, Suriname chose to identify a fruit processing installation as its preferred priority and selected this site for erecting this particular plant," Jaishanakar stated.

Highlighting broader India-Suriname ties, Jaishankar said India's cooperation with Suriname has remained "human-centric" and directly impacted the lives of ordinary citizens through initiatives such as food grain supplies, quick-impact community projects, disaster preparedness systems and capacity-building efforts.

"Our commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam -- the world as one family -- is demonstrated not just in words but through specific projects and activities," he said.

Jaishankar further underlined that India's cooperation with Suriname spans multiple sectors, including health, energy, sports and skill development, and assured continued support for Suriname's developmental priorities.

Strengthening Bilateral and Cultural Ties

Following the handing over ceremony, Jaishankar visited the Lalla Rookh Museum, dedicated to Indo-Surinamese heritage.

"Visited the Lalla Rookh museum of Indo-Surinamese heritage. The courage and resilience of Girmityas continue to inspire generations and remain at the heart of our enduring friendship," he stated in a separate post on X.

The External Affairs Minister also met Suriname National Assembly Chair Michael Ashwin Adhin and discussed bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

"Pleasure to meet National Assembly Chair Michael Ashwin Adhin this morning. A warm and productive discussion on India-Suriname cooperation in various domains. Recognised the importance of Parliamentary exchanges between our two democracies," Jaishankar said in a separate post. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran claims missile strike on US naval vessels in Strait of Hormuz

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 04:00:27 +0530

Iran claims retaliatory missile strike on US vessels

Iran has claimed that its forces have targeted US naval vessels in the Strait of Hormuz following an attack on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, in what appears to mark a sharp escalation in maritime tensions in the region.

According to Iran's state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) on Thursday (local time), a military official stated that after the US military attack on the Iranian tanker, "enemy units" operating in the Strait of Hormuz came under Iranian missile fire and were forced to retreat after sustaining damage.

"Following the attack by the US military on an Iranian tanker, the attacking enemy units in the Strait of Hormuz came under Iranian missile fire and were forced to flee after suffering damage," the military official said as quoted by IRIB.

US confirms disabling tanker for blockade violation

"US forces operating in the Gulf of Oman enforced blockade measures by disabling an Iranian-flagged unladen oil tanker attempting to sail toward an Iranian port at 9 am ET, May 6," the statement read.

According to CENTCOM, American forces issued multiple warnings to the tanker, informing it that it was in violation of the blockade. When the crew did not respond, US forces took action to stop the vessel.

"After Hasna's crew failed to comply with repeated warnings, US forces disabled the tanker's rudder by firing several rounds from the 20mm cannon gun of a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet," the statement added. The fighter jet involved in the operation was launched from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72).

CENTCOM confirmed that the tanker is no longer proceeding toward Iran. The US military reiterated that its blockade targeting vessels attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports "remains in full effect", adding that forces are continuing to act "deliberately and professionally to ensure compliance".

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Maldives' Abdulla Shahid hails India's 'Operation Sindoor' response

Asianet News Central — Thu, 07 May 2026 21:00:55 +0530

Former Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid on Thursday hailed India's military response under Operation Sindoor and praised New Delhi's continued leadership in addressing cross-border terrorism and ensuring regional security.

In a post on X, Abdulla Shahid said, "On this day last year, Indian armed forces executed #OperationSindoor in response to terrorist attacks against innocent civilians. We thank India for its continued leadership and actions in addressing cross-border terrorism, and its commitment to regional security."

On this day last year, Indian armed forces executed #OperationSindoor in response to terrorist attacks against innocent civilians. We thank India for its continued leadership and actions in addressing cross-border terrorism, and its commitment to regional security. — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) May 7, 2026

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India's resolve against terrorism on the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, stating that India remains firm under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in countering threats to peace and security.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said the operation reflected India's determination to defend itself against cross-border terrorism and ensure accountability for terrorist actions. "A year ago, #OperationSindoor demonstrated the nation's resolve to defend itself against cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. With its decisive actions, India ensured accountability for terrorist actions. And underlined that such a serious threat to peace and security will be effectively countered. Under the leadership of PM @narendramodi, India stands strong and determined to convey a message of zero tolerance for terrorism," he wrote

A year ago, #OperationSindoor demonstrated the nation’s resolve to defend itself against cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. With its decisive actions, ensured accountability for terrorist actions. And underlined that such a serious threat to peace and security will be… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 7, 2026

Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita also hailed the valour of the armed forces and highlighted how the world witnessed that those who threaten India's peace and security can never escape the reach of our forces.

In a post on X, he said the operation showcased the precision, courage and strength of the Indian Armed Forces and highlighted seamless coordination among intelligence agencies, strategic leadership and military forces.

About Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor, initiated on May 7, 2025, in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, showcased a calibrated, tri-services response that embodied precision, professionalism, and purpose.

Operation Sindoor was conceived as a punitive and targeted campaign to dismantle the terror infrastructure across the Line of Control and deeper inside Pakistan. Multi-agency intelligence provided confirmation of nine major camps that were eventually targeted in the operation.

India's retaliatory action was based on meticulous planning and an intelligence-led approach, which ensured that the operations were conducted with minimal collateral damage. Operational ethics were central to the mission, and restraint was exercised to avoid civilian harm.

Pakistan's Retaliatory Attacks Neutralised

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan initiated a series of retaliatory drone and UCAV attacks targeting key Indian airbases and logistics infrastructure. These attempts, however, were effectively neutralised by India's comprehensive and multilayered air defence architecture.

Central to this success was the Integrated Command and Control Strategy (ICCS), which facilitated real-time threat identification, assessment, and interception across multiple domains.

Seamless Tri-Service Coordination

In every single domain of Operation Sindoor, there was operational synergy between the forces and fully supported by the Government, agencies and departments.

The operation unfolded across land, air, and sea--a seamless demonstration of synergy between the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

INS Sagardhwani in Vietnam to boost scientific cooperation with India

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 02:00:32 +0530

INS Sagardhwani's Goodwill and Research Visit

INS Sagardhwani, an oceanographic research vessel, arrived at Cam Ranh, Vietnam, on Tuesday, marking a significant step in India's scientific cooperation with Vietnam. According to a statement from the Defence Ministry, upon arrival, the ship was warmly received by Senior Colonel Tran Van Cuong, Deputy Head of Khanh Hoa Military Command, along with representatives from the Vietnam People's Navy and the Coast Guard. The ship will conduct scientific interactions with the Institute of Oceanography, Nha Trang, promoting collaboration in marine science and oceanography. The visit marks an important milestone in strengthening diplomatic and scientific ties between India and Vietnam, reflecting their shared commitment to advancing oceanographic research.

During the port call, the Indian Navy will participate in a range of activities with the Vietnam People's Navy, including training exchanges, cross-training visits, friendly sports fixtures, and joint yoga sessions. Professional and social interactions are also planned, the statement said.

INS Sagardhwani is a specialised oceanographic research vessel commissioned in July 1994. The vessel has served as a key platform for marine scientific research, contributing significantly to advancements in marine acoustics and naval oceanography. This visit further reinforces India's commitment to scientific excellence, regional cooperation, and enhanced maritime domain awareness.

Leaders Underscore Bilateral Maritime Cooperation

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Joint Statement issued shortly after the meeting between PM Modi and Vietnam's President To Lam noted how on the maritime front, the leaders emphasised maritime domain as one of the key pillars of their cooperation and called for enhanced maritime cooperation between the two sides. They noted that the bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue has fostered mutual trust and better understanding of respective concerns and underscored the importance of convening it regularly.

Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness

Vietnam thanked India for the invitation to assign an International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) at Gurugram, India, to strengthen cooperation in Maritime Domain Awareness.

Cooperation in Indo-Pacific Initiatives

Prime Minister Modi welcomed Vietnam's joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and looked forward to enhanced cooperation under that framework.

Viet Nam will continue to coordinate with India and other partners within the framework of the IPOI, while fostering further synergies between IPOI and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and promoting substantive cooperation in the ASEAN-India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026.

Broadening Scientific and Economic Ties

Both leaders agreed to enhance collaboration in oceanography, including areas such as ocean observing platforms, data management, ocean prediction and services, capacity building and maritime scientific research.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed cooperation with Viet Nam in the setting up of Pangasius breeding and farming facilities, and enabling Mussels' breeding and procurement in India, the statement said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Trump, Brazil's Lula discuss trade, tariffs in 'very well' meeting

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 02:00:32 +0530

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) said he held a "very well" meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at the White House, where the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues, including trade and tariffs.

Trump on the Meeting

In a post on Truth Social following the meeting, Trump said that the two leaders discussed trade and tariffs. He further stated that officials from both sides will soon hold discussions on key aspects of the bilateral agenda, adding that further meetings are expected to take place in the coming months as needed. "Just concluded my meeting with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the very dynamic President of Brazil. We discussed many topics, including Trade and, specifically, Tariffs. The meeting went very well. Our Representatives are scheduled to get together to discuss certain key elements. Additional meetings will be scheduled over the coming months, as necessary," Trump stated in his post.

Meeting Details and Delegation

According to the Brazilian government, the two Presidents met for around 30 minutes in the Oval Office, followed by an expanded lunch in the Cabinet Room. The Brazilian delegation accompanying Lula included Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira, Minister of Finance Dario Durigan, Minister of Justice and Public Security Wellington Cesar Lima, Minister of Development, Industry, Trade and Services Marcio Elias Rosa, Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira, and Director of Brazil's Federal Police Andrei Rodrigues.

Strained US-Brazil Relations

This marks Lula's eighth visit to the White House, which comes during a time when the ties between the two countries have witnessed a rough patch recently. Last summer, Trump imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Brazilian goods. Lula had been vocal against Trump's tariffs, which had caused global economic uncertainty. The slump between the two leaders can also be attributed to the legal proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, a Trump ally, over his role in an attempted coup plot after losing the 2022 elections to Lula.

Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs

Meanwhile, in February, the US Supreme Court ruled against Trump's signature trade policy, noting that the US President lacked authority under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping import duties on goods from nearly all US trading partners.

In its verdict, the US Supreme Court held that the IEEPA does not grant the President the authority to levy tariffs. The Bench of Nine Justices ruled 6-3, with Chief Justice John Roberts authoring the majority opinion. Justices Brett Kavanaugh, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissented. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian Artist’s 20-Foot Rangoli on South Korea Streets Goes Viral, Sparks Debate Over Cultural Inspiration (Watch)

Keerthika MV — Thu, 07 May 2026 22:15:51 +0530

An Indian artist has captured widespread attention after creating a massive 20-foot rangoli portrait on a public street during a festival in South Korea. The striking artwork, which blended traditional Indian rangoli techniques with East Asian-inspired aesthetics, quickly went viral on social media, drawing both admiration and discussion from viewers across the globe. The installation also attracted onlookers at the venue, many of whom stopped to watch the intricate design come to life in real time.

The artist, Bhagyashree, known for her detailed painting and rangoli portraits, shared the video on her Instagram handle. The clip documented both the creation process and the reactions of people who gathered around to witness the large-scale street artwork.

Rangoli Art Comes Alive On South Korean Streets

In the video, Bhagyashree is seen working on a vast outline drawn directly on the street during a festival in South Korea. Kneeling on the ground, she carefully filled the design using vibrant rangoli powders, gradually bringing the portrait to life with detailed shading and colour work.

The artwork depicted a woman dressed in traditional East Asian attire, with flowing garments and intricate design elements. As the artwork progressed, passersby were seen slowing down, filming the process and observing the detailed craftsmanship from close range.

Artist Describes Cultural Fusion Through Art

Sharing the video, Bhagyashree explained that the piece was inspired by East Asian aesthetics but executed in her own artistic style using rangoli.

She described the process as more than just creating art, saying it felt like “bringing a story to life.” She also highlighted the cultural blend, describing it as a moment where “Indian art meets Korea through rangoli.”

The artist revealed that the 20-foot artwork was completed within four hours as part of a festival in South Korea.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by rangoli & Painting artist (@art_bhagyashree)

Online Debate Over Cultural Inspiration

The video quickly gained traction online, with many praising the scale, patience, and precision involved in the creation. Social media users lauded Bhagyashree for taking a traditional Indian art form to an international audience and presenting it in a contemporary, cross-cultural setting.

However, the artwork also sparked discussion regarding its design inspiration. Some users pointed out that while the piece was created in South Korea, the attire and hairstyle in the portrait appeared more Japanese in style rather than Korean.

A few commenters noted that the clothing resembled a traditional Japanese kimono, particularly due to the visible waist tie and design structure. Others highlighted that the hairstyle appeared closer to a Japanese style rather than a traditional Korean look.

Social Media Reactions

One user commented: “Tho, some comments mentioned this is HANBOK, but it is an indeed a Japanese Kimono! It clearly has Obi sash in the middle! Neither does Korean Hanbok have that but it is comprised of Jeogori (jacket) and Goreum (Tie in front on the left side) And even the hairstyle here is called Nihongami style, meanwhile for Korean they use jjokjin meori (a sleek, low bun”

Another user wrote: “When Indian Art meets South Korea.”

A third user commented: “Patience and Passion brings a wonderful result. such a fascinating Art form representing something beautiful.”

Another added: “Bridging borders with every pinch of powder. A beautiful cross-cultural moment in Ansan”

Celebration Of Cross-Cultural Art

Despite differing interpretations online, many viewers focused on the artistic achievement and cultural fusion showcased in the rangoli. The artwork was widely appreciated for its scale, detail, and ability to bring Indian traditional art into an international public space, sparking conversations about creativity, identity, and cultural exchange.

“More Cases May Appear Soon, Limited Spread Likely,” Says WHO Chief on Hantavirus Outbreak

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 07 May 2026 22:31:01 +0530

The World Health Organization said Thursday that more cases of the hantavirus could emerge but expected the outbreak to be "limited" if precautions are taken, after the disease killed three passengers from a cruise ship.

Another sick passenger from the MV Hondius landed in Europe earlier in the day, as the vessel headed to a Spanish island and health officials scrambled to map the outbreak of the potentially deadly human-to-human strain.

The fate of the Hondius sparked international alarm after three people travelling on it died, though health officials have played down fears of a wider global outbreak from the rat-borne virus, which is less contagious than Covid-19.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told journalists in Geneva that five confirmed and three suspected cases had been reported overall, including the three deaths.

"Given the incubation period of the Andes virus, which can be up to six weeks, it's possible that more cases may be reported," he said, referring to the rare strain detected aboard the Hondius, which can be transmitted between humans.

His prediction was proved swiftly correct, with the Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands announcing later on Thursday another patient had tested positive.

But the WHO's emergency alert and response director Abdi Rahman Mahamud insisted: "We believe this will be a limited outbreak if the public health measures are implemented and solidarity shown across all countries."

People thought to have contracted the virus are being treated or isolating in Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and South Africa.

"This is not the start of an epidemic. This is not the start of a pandemic," WHO epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention director Maria Van Kerkhove insisted. "This is not Covid."

Rare disease

Hantavirus is a rare respiratory disease that is usually spread from infected rodents and can cause respiratory and cardiac distress as well as haemorrhagic fevers.

There are no vaccines and no known cure for it, meaning that treatment consists solely of attempting to relieve the symptoms.

A passenger is thought to have contracted the virus before boarding the ship in Argentina and eventually infected others on board as it sailed across the Atlantic.

Three evacuees were whisked away from the ship on Wednesday and a fourth landed on Thursday in Amsterdam, said the vessel's operator, Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions.

"No symptomatic individuals are present on board" the ship at the moment, as it sails toward the Spanish island of Tenerife, it said in a statement.

Two people who returned to the UK from the ship have been advised to self-isolate, the UK Health Security Agency said, adding they were asymptomatic and insisting the risk to the public was "very low".

Officials in Argentina said they planned to test rodents in the coastal city of Ushuaia, from where the ship had set sail on April 1.

First case

A Dutch man who had boarded in Ushuaia along with his wife died aboard the ship on April 11.

The man's body was taken off the ship on April 24 in Saint Helena, an island in the south Atlantic where 29 other passengers disembarked, the ship's operator said.

"These guests have all been contacted by Oceanwide Expeditions. We are working to establish details of all passengers and crew who embarked and disembarked on various stops of Hondius since March 20," it said.

Ghebreyesus said it had informed 12 countries that its nationals disembarked from the cruise ship on Saint Helena.

Alarm was raised when the deceased man's wife -- who left the ship to accompany his body to South Africa -- died there 15 days later after also falling ill, with hantavirus confirmed as the cause on May 4.

The couple had visited Chile, Uruguay and Argentina before the cruise, Argentine officials said.

The Dutch woman had flown on a commercial plane from the island of Saint Helena to Johannesburg while she was showing symptoms.

Officials were trying to trace people on that flight, which South African-based carrier Airlink said was carrying 82 passengers and six crew.

A German passenger died on May 2. Her body remains on the ship.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed)

Hantavirus Cruise Outbreak: Two Singapore Residents Isolated, Test Results Pending After Exposure

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 07 May 2026 21:22:02 +0530

Two Singapore residents who had been on board a hantavirus-hit cruise ship have been isolated as they await test results for the rare respiratory disease, Singapore's Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said on Thursday.

Two men aged 65 and 67 had been on the ship and also the same flight as a confirmed hantavirus case from St Helena to Johannesburg on April 25, the CDA said.

Both arrived in Singapore in early May and have been isolated and are being monitored at Singapore's National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID). The confirmed case did not travel to the city-state and died in South Africa.

"Two Singapore residents had been on board the cruise ship MV Hondius, which has reported an outbreak of Andes hantavirus. Both individuals have been isolated at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, where they are being tested for hantavirus," a CDA statement said.

"Their test results are pending. One has a runny nose but is otherwise well, and the other is asymptomatic. The risk to the general public in Singapore is currently low."

If the pair test negative for hantavirus "they will be quarantined for 30 days from the date of last exposure", CDA said, adding that "testing will be conducted again before release from quarantine".

If they test positive they will remain hospitalised for monitoring and treatment, and "contact tracing will be conducted to identify persons who have been exposed during the infectious period, and close contacts will be quarantined", the CDA said.

The MV Hondius has been at the centre of an international health scare since Saturday, when the UN's health agency was informed that three passengers had died and the suspected cause was hantavirus.

Eight cases, including three deaths, had been linked to the cluster on the cruise ship by Wednesday, according to CDA.

The rare disease is usually spread from infected rodents, typically through urine, droppings and saliva.

However, experts have confirmed that the version of the virus detected aboard the Hondius is a rare strain that can be transmitted between humans.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed)

Jaishankar to inaugurate permanent Jaipur Foot centre in Trinidad

Asianet News Central — Thu, 07 May 2026 22:00:49 +0530

India's External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is to inaugurate a permanent prosthetic limb centre in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, on Friday, a humanitarian venture supported by the world's largest organisation serving people with disabilities. The centre, established by Jaipur Foot USA in partnership with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) and the Government of Trinidad & Tobago, will provide locally-made prosthetic limbs to amputees and the differently-abled in the Caribbean nation.

Project Background and Key Partners

Trinidad & Tobago's Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, will co-preside over the inauguration ceremony. The project's roots trace back to September last year, when Jaipur Foot USA, alongside BRUHUD NY Seniors and Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), organised a reception in New York in honour of Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar, which also marked the birthday of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It was at that gathering that Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari publicly announced the plan for a permanent centre.

Representing Jaipur Foot USA at the inauguration will be Ajay Patel, the organisation's Vice President for International Affairs and chief coordinator for the Trinidad project. He will be accompanied by founding members Dr Sona Ramdath Jr and Amit Alagh.

BMVSS founder and Chief Patron D R Mehta has deputed Gajender Lamba, an expert in prosthetic fabrication, who has already travelled to Trinidad & Tobago to conduct hands-on training for personnel from the country's Ministry of Health. The training focuses on the manufacture and fitting of the iconic Jaipur Foot, a low-cost, durable prosthetic limb designed for use in tropical and rural conditions.

Building on Past Success

The initiative builds on a successful 50-day camp held in Trinidad last year, during which more than 800 differently-abled individuals received prosthetic limbs free of charge. That camp was supported by the Government of India -- a commitment made personally by Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Port of Spain.

Bhandari paid special tribute to Dr Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit, the Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad & Tobago, describing him as a driving force behind both the 2025 camp and the establishment of the now-permanent centre. "His pivotal leadership and significant contribution have made this lasting humanitarian initiative possible," Bhandari said.

A Legacy of Indian Innovation

The Jaipur Foot, developed in India in 1968, is one of the most widely used prosthetic devices in the developing world. BMVSS has rehabilitated more than 2.5 million people across 50 countries, through 120 international camps, making it a symbol of India's grassroots innovation in assistive technology. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India, UAE review strategic partnership, discuss deepening cooperation

Asianet News Central — Thu, 07 May 2026 23:30:29 +0530

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Thursday met UAE's MoS for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, and reviewed the full spectrum of ties, along with discussing the regional situation. Sharing the details of the visit in a post on X, the Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said, "Both sides reviewed the full spectrum of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and identified areas for further cooperation. They also discussed the ongoing regional situation and global issues of mutual interest." https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/2052400215223849313?s=20

Deepening Investment and Tech Cooperation

Also during the visit, Foreign Secretary Misri met with Khaldoon Al Mubarak, MD & CEO, Mubadala Investment Company. They discussed ways to further deepen the India-UAE partnership, including in investment, technology and other key sectors. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/2052418685357502747?s=20

India Responds to Regional Insecurity

The visit to the UAE comes amid the developing security situation in West Asia and the Gulf region, where, earlier this week, strikes took place at the country's Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone, resulting in injuries to three Indian nationals.

PM Modi Condemns Attacks, Affirms Support

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's deep-rooted ties with the United Arab Emirates, expressing unwavering support for the Gulf nation after an attack on civilian infrastructure in the strategic energy hub of Fujairah left three Indian citizens injured. The strikes targeted Fujairah, a critical global maritime artery on the UAE's eastern seaboard, which serves as a primary bypass for oil exports outside the volatile Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister conveyed his distress over the escalation, stating, "Strongly condemn the attacks on the UAE that resulted in injuries to three Indian nationals. Targeting civilians and infrastructure is unacceptable." He further emphasised the depth of the bilateral relationship, noting that "India stands in firm solidarity with the UAE" and continues to advocate for the "peaceful resolution of all issues through dialogue and diplomacy."

Underscoring the strategic importance of the region's maritime corridors, PM Modi highlighted that "ensuring safe and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is vital for enduring regional peace, stability and global energy security."

MEA Reiterates Call for Diplomacy

New Delhi's condemnation was first articulated by MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who, in an official statement on the attack on Fujairah, emphasised India's stance on the escalating regional situation. He noted that the targeting of innocent civilians must cease and reiterated that India continues to stand for "dialogue and diplomacy" to restore peace and stability across West Asia.

Highlighting the importance of global trade routes, the spokesperson called for "free and unimpeded navigation and commerce" through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that such activities must remain "in keeping with international law." The Ministry further stated that India stands ready to support all efforts directed towards a peaceful resolution of the ongoing issues in the region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)