World

Annalena Baerbock urged renewed commitment to the UN Charter amid global tensions, questioned Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace”, and highlighted India’s key role in multilateralism during talks with S Jaishankar

Saudi Arabia remains an OPEC heavyweight despite waning influence, as rivalry with the UAE deepens over economic interests and regional politics, particularly in the Red Sea region

Ukraine said it intercepted over 33,000 Russian drones in March, while also launching long-range strikes on Russian oil infrastructure. The war has intensified with reciprocal drone attacks, expanding Ukrainian strike range and escalating civilian and energy infrastructure damage

Anant Mukesh Ambani has urged Colombia to suspend plans to cull 80 invasive hippos, proposing their relocation to Vantara with full funding, scientific management, and lifelong care, pending required international approvals

Keir Starmer faces parliamentary scrutiny over the appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador amid security concerns and alleged pressure on vetting processes. The controversy has triggered calls for investigation and renewed political pressure on the UK leader

India’s Oil India Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Limited, with partners, discovered oil and gas in Libya’s Ghadames Basin, boosting India’s global energy footprint and supporting efforts to strengthen energy security and reduce crude import dependence

First LNG shipment since the West Asia conflict appears to have crossed the Strait of Hormuz, signalling easing tensions. The tanker Mubaraz heads toward China, raising cautious optimism for global energy flows despite ongoing US-Iran geopolitical uncertainty 

Jordan joined India-led global initiatives including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and Global Biofuel Alliance, boosting cooperation on climate action, resilient infrastructure, and clean energy transition

India and the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union will hold the next round of FTA talks in June in Moscow, focusing on non-trade issues, as India seeks to diversify exports and strengthen economic ties with member nations

China said its “all-weather” ties with Pakistan remain strong and steadily growing as President Asif Ali Zardari visits China. Both sides aim to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen their long-standing strategic partnership during diplomatic talks marking 75 years of ties

India and New Zealand signed a Free Trade Agreement boosting exports, investment, and skilled mobility. India gains 100% duty-free access to NZ, while New Zealand secures selective market entry. The pact strengthens Indo-Pacific trade ties and targets $20 billion investment inflows

Police in Bangladesh have failed to complete investigations in over 90% of 1,855 cases linked to July 2024 protests, raising concerns over justice delays, false accusations, and systemic weaknesses, with journalists and civilians among those still awaiting case resolution

China blocked Meta’s acquisition of AI startup Manus, citing foreign investment security review rules. The deal, involving a Singapore-based firm with Chinese roots, was halted after scrutiny by regulators, despite Meta claiming full legal compliance and expecting resolution

Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts its blockade and the war ends, officials said. The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions, stalled negotiations and global concerns over oil supply disruptions and rising prices

India and New Zealand signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), described as India’s first women-led negotiation deal. It grants 100% duty-free access for Indian exports, boosts investment, and expands opportunities for students, professionals, and key sectors

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel is defending the rights of Christians across the Middle East, highlighting the role of Christian soldiers in the IDF. His remarks followed a viral incident in Lebanon where an Israeli soldier was filmed smashing a statue of Jesus Christ.

India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, visited Makkah to oversee arrangements for Haj 2026 and welcomed the first batch of pilgrims arriving by train from Madinah. Key initiatives this year include the Haj Suvidha App, smart wristbands, short-duration Haj options, expanded insurance coverage, and high-speed rail connectivity.

A Hindu temple caretaker was found dead in southeastern Bangladesh days after going missing. Minority groups suspect foul play and demand justice, while police await autopsy results to determine whether it was murder or suicide

The India–New Zealand FTA is set to boost India’s leather sector, with zero tariffs enhancing exports. Piyush Goyal said the industry could reach $50 billion by 2030, leveraging manufacturing strength and global market access

India advised citizens to avoid travel to Iran due to partially open airspace, while assisting evacuation of 2,445 Indians via land routes. Gulf carriers continue limited flights to India as regional aviation gradually stabilises under safety restrictions

At least 16 people were killed in strikes across Ukraine, Russian-held territories and Russia over the weekend, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Ukrainian and Russian drone attacks hit Dnipro, Sevastopol, Belgorod and Yaroslavl, sparking fires at an oil refinery.

The Central Information Commission upheld denial of RTI data on India’s oil imports from Russia, citing commercial confidentiality and strategic interests, while directing Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell to improve transparency and disclosures on its website

A UN-backed report has ranked Pakistan among the top 10 fragile countries facing acute food insecurity, with around 11 million people affected in 2025. Floods, inflation and poor infrastructure are cited as key drivers of worsening food conditions.

Nepal faces a widening trade deficit with China, driven by heavy imports and weak exports. World Bank data shows BRI projects favour Chinese firms, deepening structural imbalances and exposing Nepal’s economic vulnerabilities