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Category: Government of India

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Pact poised to transform Bay of Bengal into global trade and tourism hub: Sarbananda Sonowal

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday inaugurated the second edition of the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave in Visakhapatnam, outlining a bold and collaborative vision to transform the Bay of Bengal into a vibrant hub of global trade, cruise tourism, and sustainable development.

    The two-day conclave, attended by representatives from all seven BIMSTEC nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—brought together policymakers, port authorities, maritime experts, private stakeholders, and academics to chart a shared maritime future for the region.

    Sonowal described the BIMSTEC Ports Conclave as a “springboard” for unlocking the potential of the Blue Economy. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, BIMSTEC nations are key partners in driving regional prosperity. He called for deeper collaboration in port-led industrialisation, digital integration, and skill development, aiming to create a seamless and efficient port network that can act as an engine of growth for the entire region.

    The conclave builds upon the momentum of the first BIMSTEC Ports Conclave and aims to operationalise the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation (AMTC), which India was the first to ratify. Sonowal urged all member states to expedite its ratification and implementation.

    A major announcement at the event was the establishment of a BIMSTEC Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre in Powai, Mumbai. This centre, to be set up under the Indian Ocean Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Maritime Transport (IOCE-SMarT), will be key to operationalising the AMTC agreement. Sonowal noted that the centre will drive harmonisation of maritime policies, promote green and digital transformations, reduce trade costs, and strengthen maritime skill development across the region.

    The conclave featured two major sessions that shaped the roadmap for BIMSTEC’s maritime future. The first session focused on increasing private sector participation and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to modernize port infrastructure and improve regional coordination. It also proposed the creation of a regional PPP facilitation platform and the harmonisation of port-related laws.

    The second session explored the region’s potential in capturing new manufacturing opportunities created by shifting global supply chains. Discussions included establishing hubs in shipbuilding, electronics, logistics, and renewable energy sectors. Both sessions highlighted the importance of coordinated strategies, improved regional connectivity, and policy reforms in positioning the Bay of Bengal as a resilient trade and industry corridor.

    Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, also addressed the conclave. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting seamless regional connectivity through harmonised maritime transport policies, digital logistics platforms, private investment, and a strong emphasis on skill development and green innovation.

    Conclave discussions focused on operationalising the AMTC agreement, streamlining customs and logistics, and expanding cruise tourism through PPP models and joint branding strategies. Delegates proposed initiatives such as port-linked industrial zones, a regional Port Community System, multimodal logistics parks, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to improve hinterland connectivity. Emphasis was also placed on cross-border training programmes, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation in green shipping as essential components for the region’s sustainable future.

    Speaking about the strategic Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, Sonowal highlighted its role as a transformative initiative connecting India’s Northeast to the Bay of Bengal. He said that under the Act East Policy, Kaladan serves not only as a bilateral initiative with Myanmar but also as a model for regional integration under BIMSTEC. The project, he added, has the potential to significantly reduce trade costs, improve transit efficiency, and open new economic opportunities for India’s Northeast while fostering closer ties with neighbouring countries.

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Australia PM Albanese to discuss trade, security in meeting with China’s Xi Jinping

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Tuesday, where he said resources trade, energy transition and security tensions are key topics for discussion.

    Albanese is due to meet Xi ahead of an annual leaders dialogue with Li, and later attend a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People.

    Albanese said on Monday he looked forward to a “constructive dialogue” with the Chinese leaders.

    Australia, which regards the United States its major security ally, has pursued a China policy of “cooperate where we can, disagree where we must” under Albanese.

    Australia has expressed concern at China’s military build-up and the jailing of an Australian writer, while Beijing has criticised Canberra’s increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese’s pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

    Chinese state media outlet Xinhua said the relationship between the two countries, which have complementary economies, was steadily improving.

    Australia’s exports to China, its largest trading partner, span agriculture and energy but are dominated by iron ore, and Albanese has traveled with executives from mining giants Rio Tinto RIO.AX, BHP BHP.AX, and Fortescue FMG.AX, who met with Chinese steel industry officials on Monday, as part of a six-day visit.

    Bran Black, CEO of the Business Council of Australia, said Australia’s Bluescope Steel BSL.AX will also be at Tuesday’s business roundtable, along with China’s electric vehicle giant BYD 002594.SZ, Chinese banking executives, Baosteel and COFCO.

    “First and foremost we use fixtures such as this to send a signal that business-to-business engagement should be welcomed and encouraged,” Black told Reuters on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump sued by US states over withholding $6.8 billion for schools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A coalition of mostly Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit on Monday challenging a move by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to withhold about $6.8 billion in congressionally approved federal funding for K-12 schools.

    Attorneys general or governors from 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, arguing that the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget threw schools nationwide into chaos by unconstitutionally freezing funding for six programs approved by Congress.

    The freeze extended to funding used to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children; recruitment and training of teachers; English proficiency learning; academic enrichment; and after-school and summer programs.

    The administration also froze funding used to support adult literacy and job-readiness skills.

    The government was legally required to release the money to the states by July 1, the lawsuit said. Instead, the Education Department notified states on June 30 that it would not be issuing grant awards under those programs by that deadline. It cited the change in administration as its reason.

    An OMB spokesperson at the time cited an “ongoing programmatic review” of education funding and said initial findings showed what he termed as a misuse of grant funds to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda.”

    OMB also raised objections to the use of the grant money to support scholarships for immigrant students and lessons that involved LGBTQ themes.

    The Democratic-led states said the sweeping funding freeze has disrupted school systems, resulting in summer school and after-school programs being canceled or put at risk and the halting of other initiatives with little time for school districts to fill in the holes left in their budgets.

    The states say the administration violated the U.S. Constitution by disregarding Congress’ sole authority over spending and ran afoul of federal administrative law by freezing the funds without any reasoned explanation.

    The states also say the administration failed to abide by procedures of the Impoundment Control Act, which bars the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend funds appropriated by Congress unless certain steps are followed.

    The lawsuit follows a series of other cases Democratic-led states and others have filed challenging the administration’s sweeping efforts to freeze or terminate federal funding for programs out of line with Trump’s agenda.

    (Reuters)

  • Egypt says Israel-EU agreement has not increased aid to Gaza

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Egypt’s foreign minister said on Monday that the flow of aid into Gaza has not increased despite an agreement last week between Israel and the European Union that should have had that result.

    “Nothing has changed (on the ground),” Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters ahead of the EU-Middle East meeting in Brussels on Monday.

    The EU’s top diplomat said on Thursday that the bloc and Israel agreed to improve Gaza’s humanitarian situation, including increasing the number of aid trucks and opening crossing points and aid routes.

    Asked what steps Israel has taken, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar referred to an understanding with the EU but did not provide details on implementation.

    Asked if there were improvements after the agreement, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi told reporters that the situation in Gaza remains “catastrophic”.

    “There is a real catastrophe happening in Gaza resulting from the continuation of the Israeli siege,” he said.

    Safadi said Israel allowed the entry of 40 to 50 trucks days ago from Jordan but that was “far from being sufficient” for the besieged enclave.

    EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said ahead of Monday’s meeting that there have been some signs of progress on Gaza aid but not enough improvement on the ground.

    Israel’s continued military operations and blockade have left the entire population of 2.3 million people in Gaza facing acute food insecurity, with nearly half a million at risk of famine by the end of September, a joint United Nations report said last month.

    (Reuters)

  • Texas flood death toll rises to 131 as new storms loom

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The official tally of storm-related deaths across Texas rose to 131 on Monday as authorities warned of yet another round of heavy rains 10 days after a Hill Country flash flood that transformed the Guadalupe River into a killer torrent.

    A National Weather Service flood watch forecasting heavy downpours of up to half a foot of rain was posted until Tuesday morning for a wide swath of central Texas extending from the Rio Grande east to San Antonio and Austin.

    The advisory included Kerr County and other parts of Texas Hill Country along the Guadalupe still recovering from the July 4 flood disaster, which ravaged the county seat of Kerrville and a riverside Christian summer camp for girls in the nearby town of Hunt.

    Riverfront residents as well as search teams still combing the banks of the waterway were advised to seek higher ground until the latest danger had passed. The search for additional victims along the Guadalupe was likewise suspended due to flood concerns on Sunday.

    Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Monday said storms had claimed at least 131 lives in Texas since July 4, the bulk of those deaths in and around Kerrville, up from 120 reported on Friday.

    He said 97 people were still listed as missing in the greater Kerrville area, down from the 160-plus who authorities said were unaccounted for last week.

    About a third of the Kerr County fatalities are children, most of whom perished at Camp Mystic when floodwaters raged through the girls-only summer retreat before dawn on July 4.

    Authorities have not rescued anyone alive since the day of the floods, when more than a foot of rain fell in less than an hour in the heart of a region known as “flash flood alley,” sending a deadly wall of water down the Guadalupe River basin.

    Abbott said state lawmakers would investigate the circumstances of the flooding, disaster preparedness and emergency response to the flooding at a special legislative session set to convene later this month.

    The high casualty toll, ranking as one of the deadliest U.S. flood events in decades, has raised questions about the lack of flash-flood warning sirens in Kerr County and vacancies left at National Weather Service offices amid staffing cuts under the Trump administration.

    (Reuters)

  • Boat capsizes off Indonesia’s Mentawai islands, 11 people missing

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indonesian rescuers were searching for 11 people missing after a boat capsized in bad weather off the Mentawai Islands in West Sumatra province, the local search and rescue agency said on Tuesday.

    Seven people had been rescued after the incident, which happened on Monday at around 11 a.m. (0400 GMT), the rescue agency said in a statement.

    Of 18 people on board, 10 were local government officials. The boat had departed Sikakap, a small town in the Mentawai Islands, and was heading to another small town, Tuapejat.

    Two boats and dozens of rescuers were deployed to find the missing people on Tuesday.

    Boats and ferries are a regular mode of transport in Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, and accidents are relatively common due to bad weather as well as lax safety standards that often allow vessels to be overloaded.

    A ferry sank earlier this month near the island of Bali. Of the 65 people on board, 18 died, 30 survived and 17 remain missing.

    (Reuters)

  • Starc record as Australia bowl out Windies for 27 to win third test

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Mitchell Starc delivered the fastest five-wicket haul in test history on Monday as Australia crushed the West Indies by 176 runs in the third test in Kingston, Jamaica to complete a 3-0 series sweep.

    In his 100th test, Starc took 15 balls to wreck the West Indies top order and leave the home side’s run chase in tatters, before returning for his sixth wicket after Scott Boland became Australia’s 10th bowler to take a test hat-trick.

    West Indies were bowled out for 27, the second-lowest total in test history after New Zealand’s 26 against England in 1955.

    Starc shattered the previous record for a “five-for” by four balls, surpassing Ernie Toshack (1947), Stuart Broad (2015) and Boland (2021), who needed 19 deliveries to achieve the feat.

    “You talk about 100 tests and skill and fitness … but I think today showed the real Mitchell Starc – what he can bring to a team. Which is, out of nowhere, tear an opposition apart and win a game for you,” said Australia captain Pat Cummins.

    The drama began on the first delivery of West Indies’ second innings, when Starc enticed John Campbell to nick an outswinger to wicketkeeper Josh Inglis.

    Debutant Kevlon Anderson shouldered arms to a ball that jagged back and struck his pad four balls later, before Brandon King edged on to his stumps as the hosts found themselves three wickets down with no runs on the board.

    Starc, named player-of-the-match and series, then trapped Mikyle Louis lbw to become the fourth Australian to reach 400 test wickets alongside Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Nathan Lyon.

    Two balls later, he trapped Shai Hope lbw and finished with figures of 6-9.

    At tea, the West Indies stood at a precarious 22-6, needing 182 runs for victory and staring down the barrel of cricket’s ultimate embarrassment, with five runs needed to avoid the lowest-ever total.

    And the drama was far from over.

    Boland dismissed Justin Greaves, Shamar Joseph and Jomel Warrican to claim a hat-trick that left West Indies at 26-9, level with New Zealand’s record.

    “He is amazing, isn’t he?” Starc said of 36-year-old Boland, who has 62 wickets from 14 tests at an average of 16.53.

    “He would have played so many more tests in another team.”

    In the end, it was a narrow escape for West Indies as they added another run before Starc returned to bowl Jayden Seales.

    Earlier, Australia were dismissed for 121, their lowest score against West Indies in 30 years, with Alzarri Joseph completing career-best figures of 5-27 and Shamar Joseph 4-34.

    That was little consolation for West Indies captain Roston Chase, who said being bowled out for less than 30 was “quite embarrassing.”

    “Obviously we’ve been putting ourselves in positions to win games and then we (are) just laying down and not putting up a fight in the last batting innings,” he said.

    “It’s quite heartbreaking, because I think we did it in all three tests, and we’re not really learning from our mistakes.”

    (Reuters)

  • Tense exchanges made Lord’s test more exciting, says Shubman Gill

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Heated exchanges between England and India players made the Lord’s test more exciting and challenging, India captain Shubman Gill said after England took a 2-1 lead in the series with a dramatic 22-run win on Monday.

    Tension flared between the teams during the intense third test, with Gill sarcastically clapping England batters for unnecessary delays, and India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj roaring in the face of England opener Ben Duckett after taking his wicket.

    Siraj was fined 15% of his match fee for his aggressive behaviour.

    “You’re giving everything, mentally, physically. There would be times when there would be a little bit of heat from both sides. But I think that’s what makes it so exciting, more challenging,” Gill told a news conference.

    “At the end of the day, there’s a lot of admiration within the two teams. Both the teams try their best to win.”

    Gill said staying calm under pressure would be crucial going forward in the five-match series.

    “The longer the match goes, shows how well both the teams are balanced. It’s just a matter of which team keeps their calm and composure longer,” he said.

    The fourth test in Manchester starts on July 23.

    (Reuters)

     

  • Tense exchanges made Lord’s test more exciting, says Shubman Gill

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Heated exchanges between England and India players made the Lord’s test more exciting and challenging, India captain Shubman Gill said after England took a 2-1 lead in the series with a dramatic 22-run win on Monday.

    Tension flared between the teams during the intense third test, with Gill sarcastically clapping England batters for unnecessary delays, and India fast bowler Mohammed Siraj roaring in the face of England opener Ben Duckett after taking his wicket.

    Siraj was fined 15% of his match fee for his aggressive behaviour.

    “You’re giving everything, mentally, physically. There would be times when there would be a little bit of heat from both sides. But I think that’s what makes it so exciting, more challenging,” Gill told a news conference.

    “At the end of the day, there’s a lot of admiration within the two teams. Both the teams try their best to win.”

    Gill said staying calm under pressure would be crucial going forward in the five-match series.

    “The longer the match goes, shows how well both the teams are balanced. It’s just a matter of which team keeps their calm and composure longer,” he said.

    The fourth test in Manchester starts on July 23.

    (Reuters)

     

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • Sensex, Nifty edge higher as inflation cools

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s benchmark indices opened higher on Tuesday, staging a mild rebound after four straight sessions of losses, as easing inflation and positive global cues lifted investor sentiment.

    Consumer inflation dropped to a more than six-year low of 2.10 percent in June, providing a boost to hopes for future rate cuts and signaling macroeconomic resilience.

    The Nifty 50 rose 36.30 points, or 0.14 percent, to 25,129.70, while the BSE Sensex added 85.48 points, or 0.10 percent, to 82,338.94.

    The rebound offered some relief to investors following recent market volatility. Broader indices showed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap 100 climbing 0.57 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 0.82 percent. The Nifty 100 was up 0.29 percent.

    Global markets also provided tailwinds. US equities eked out modest gains overnight, while Asian stocks advanced after China’s second-quarter GDP growth came in at a better-than-expected 5.2 percent, signaling underlying economic strength.

    Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, “Indian markets recovered from session lows on Monday, signaling that the four-day fall, the first since March, may be bottoming out. With CPI at multiyear lows, there’s now more room for rate cuts. The global outlook is resilient, and we expect Indian markets to show some strength here on.”

    Sectoral indices on the NSE mirrored the upbeat tone, with all major sectors opening in the green. Nifty Media led the gains, rising 1 percent. Nifty Auto advanced 0.68 percent, Nifty IT added 0.31 percent, and Nifty FMCG edged up 0.22 percent. Nifty Pharma and Nifty PSU Bank also saw gains of 0.22 and 0.28 percent, respectively. The Nifty Realty index climbed 0.48 percent.

    Despite ongoing uncertainty around potential US tariffs under Donald Trump’s policy rhetoric, markets appeared to take the noise in stride. Focus has now shifted to upcoming earnings from major US banks and key macroeconomic data.

    The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a mild uptick in inflation, while the Producer Price Index (PPI), due Wednesday, may offer insight into the impact of supply chain disruptions and tariffs.

    Meanwhile, safe-haven assets like gold and silver posted mild declines after recent gains, suggesting improved risk appetite among global investors.

    Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, offered a technical perspective: “The Nifty held support at 25,000 on Monday, forming a large lower shadow candle, which suggests that the level is technically significant. However, unless the index closes above 25,340, bulls should remain cautious, as a drop into the 24,800–24,900 zone remains likely.”

    Across Asia, indices were largely trading in the green. Taiwan’s Weighted Index rose 0.65 percent, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng was up 0.20 percent, and Singapore’s Straits Times edged 0.12 percent higher. South Korea’s KOSPI was the only major laggard at the time of reporting.

    (With inputs from ANI)

  • EAM Jaishankar meets Chinese President Xi Jinping, discusses India-China ties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of a delegation of foreign ministers attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting.

    In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Called on President Xi Jinping this morning in Beijing along with my fellow SCO Foreign Ministers. Conveyed the greetings of President Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Apprised President Xi of the recent development of our bilateral ties. Value the guidance of our leaders in that regard.”

    This marks Jaishankar’s first visit to China since the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops in June 2020. He is in the country to participate in the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (CFM), being held in Tianjin.

    On Monday, Jaishankar held a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the CFM.

    According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for bilateral talks.

    The two leaders reviewed the current state of India-China ties, acknowledging recent progress in stabilizing and rebuilding relations. Both sides emphasized the importance of people-centric engagement and agreed to enhance cooperation to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

    Jaishankar expressed appreciation for China’s support in resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and discussed expanding people-to-people exchanges, including improved travel access and direct flight connectivity.

    Stressing the need for peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to de-escalation and effective border management.

    “He underlined the need for cooperation on trans-border rivers, including resumption of provision of hydrological data by the Chinese side. He also took up restrictive trade measures and roadblocks to economic cooperation,” the MEA said in a statement.

    The two ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, with Jaishankar affirming India’s support for China’s current SCO presidency.

    “The discussions were constructive and forward-looking. The Ministers agreed to remain in touch, including through bilateral visits and meetings,” the MEA said.

    Earlier in the day, Jaishankar called on Chinese Vice President Han Zheng and met Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China.

    “Good to meet IDCPC Minister Liu Jianchao in Beijing. Discussed the changing global order and the emergence of multipolarity. Spoke about a constructive India-China relationship in that context,” Jaishankar said on X.

    Founded as a regional security bloc, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a permanent intergovernmental organisation comprising India, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus. The SCO’s agenda spans counterterrorism, security, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity.