NewzIntel.com

Category: Government of India

  • China warns Trump on tariffs, threatens retaliation on supply chain deals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    China warned the Trump administration on Tuesday against reigniting trade tension by restoring tariffs on its goods next month, and threatened to retaliate against nations that strike deals with the United States to cut China out of supply chains.

    Washington and Beijing agreed to a trade framework in June that restored a fragile truce, but with many details still unclear, traders and investors on both sides of the Pacific are watching to see if it will unravel or lead to a lasting detente.

    On Monday, President Donald Trump began notifying trade partners of sharply higher U.S. tariffs from August 1, after he delayed all but 10% of his April duties on most countries to give them time to strike deals with the world’s largest economy.

    China, initially singled out with tariffs exceeding 100%, has until August 12 to reach an agreement with the White House to keep Trump from reinstating additional import curbs imposed during tit-for-tat tariff exchanges in April and May.

    “One conclusion is abundantly clear: dialogue and cooperation are the only correct path,” the official People’s Daily said in a commentary, referring to the exchanges in the current round of China-U.S. trade tension.

    The article was signed “Zhong Sheng”, or “Voice of China”, a term the paper uses to express views on foreign policy.

    Reiterating Beijing’s view that Trump’s tariffs amount to “bullying”, the paper added, “Practice has proven that only by firmly upholding principled positions can one truly safeguard one’s legitimate rights and interests.”

    The remarks set the stage for another round of tariff war should Trump stick to what the ruling Communist Party’s official daily said was “a so-called ‘final deadline.’”

    The average U.S. tariff on Chinese exports now stands at 51.1%, while the average Chinese duty on U.S. goods is 32.6%, with both sides covering all their trade, the Peterson Institute for International Economics said.

    The paper also took a swipe at regional economies that are considering striking tariff reduction deals with the United States that cut China out of their supply chains.

    Last week, Vietnam secured a tariff reduction to 20% from 46% with a deal for goods “transshipped” through it, typically originating from China, to be subjected to a levy of 40%.

    “China firmly opposes any side striking a deal that sacrifices Chinese interests in exchange for tariff concessions,” the paper said.

    “If such a situation arises, China will not accept it and will respond resolutely to protect its legitimate interests.”

    (Reuters)

  • Netanyahu meets Trump at White House as Israel, Hamas discuss ceasefire

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump, hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday, said the United States had scheduled talks with Iran and indicated progress on a controversial effort to relocate Palestinians out of Gaza.

    Speaking to reporters at the beginning of a dinner between U.S. and Israeli officials, Netanyahu said the United States and Israel were working with other countries who would give Palestinians a “better future,” suggesting that the residents of Gaza could move to neighboring nations.

    “If people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave,” Netanyahu said.

    “We’re working with the United States very closely about finding countries that will seek to realize what they always say, that they wanted to give the Palestinians a better future. I think we’re getting close to finding several countries.”

    Trump, who initially demurred to Netanyahu when asked about the relocating of Palestinians, said the countries around Israel were helping out. “We’ve had great cooperation from … surrounding countries, great cooperation from every single one of them. So something good will happen,” Trump said.

    The president earlier this year floated relocating Palestinians and taking over the Gaza Strip to turn it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” Gazans criticized the proposal and vowed never to leave their homes in the coastal enclave. Human rights groups condemned the plan as ethnic cleansing.

    Trump and Netanyahu met for several hours in Washington while Israeli officials continued indirect negotiations with Hamas aimed at securing a U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire and hostage-release deal. Netanyahu returned to the Blair House guest house late on Monday, where he is due to meet Vice President JD Vance at 9:30 EDT on Tuesday.

    Netanyahu’s visit follows Trump’s prediction, on the eve of their meeting, that such a deal could be reached this week. Before heading to Washington, the right-wing Israeli leader said his discussions with Trump could help advance negotiations under way in Qatar between Israel and the Palestinian militant group.

    It was Trump’s third face-to-face encounter with Netanyahu since returning to office in January, and came just over two weeks after the president ordered the bombing of Iranian nuclear sites in support of Israeli air strikes. Trump then helped arrange a ceasefire in the 12-day Israel-Iran war.

    Trump said his administration would be meeting with Iran. “We have scheduled Iran talks, and they … want to talk. They took a big drubbing,” he said.

    Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff said the meeting would take place in the next week or so.

    Trump said he would like to lift sanctions on Iran at some point. “I would love to be able to, at the right time, take those sanctions off,” he said.

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in an interview released on Monday that he believed Iran could resolve its differences with the United States through dialogue.

    Trump and his aides appeared to be trying to seize on any momentum created by the weakening of Iran, which backs Hamas, to push both sides for a breakthrough in the 21-month Gaza war.

    The two leaders, with their top advisers, held a private dinner in the White House Blue Room, instead of more traditional talks in the Oval Office, where the president usually greets visiting dignitaries.

    Outside, hundreds of protesters, many wearing Palestinian keffiyeh scarves and waving Palestinian flags, gathered near the White House, waving banners that read “Stop Arming Israel” and “Say No to Genocide”. They also called for Netanyahu’s arrest, referring to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against the Israeli leader over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

    Netanyahu met earlier on Monday with Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He planned to visit the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday to see congressional leaders.

    During their meeting, Netanyahu gave Trump a letter that he said he had used to nominate the U.S. president for the Nobel Peace Prize. Trump, appearing pleased by the gesture, thanked him.

    Ahead of their visit, Netanyahu told reporters Israeli negotiators were driving for a deal on Gaza in Doha, Qatar’s capital.

    Israeli officials also hope the outcome of the conflict with Iran will pave the way for normalization of relations with more of its neighbors such as Lebanon, Syria and Saudi Arabia.

    SECOND DAY OF QATAR TALKS

    Witkoff, who played a major role in crafting the 60-day ceasefire proposal at the center of the Qatar negotiations, will travel to Doha this week to join discussions there, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters earlier on Monday.

    In a sign of continued gaps between the two sides, Palestinian sources said Israel’s refusal to allow the free and safe entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza remains the main obstacle to progress in the indirect talks. Israel insists it is taking steps to get food into Gaza but seeks to prevent militants from diverting supplies.

    On the second day of negotiations, mediators hosted one round and talks were expected to resume in the evening, the Palestinian sources told Reuters.

    The U.S.-backed proposal envisages a phased release of hostages, Israeli troop withdrawals from parts of Gaza and discussions on ending the war entirely.

    Hamas has long demanded a final end to the war before it would free remaining hostages; Israel has insisted it would not agree to halt fighting until all hostages are released and Hamas dismantled.

    Trump told reporters last week that he would be “very firm” with Netanyahu on the need for a speedy Gaza deal and that the Israeli leader also wanted to end the war.

    Some of Netanyahu’s hardline coalition partners oppose halting military operations but, with Israelis having become increasingly weary of the Gaza war, his government is expected to back a ceasefire if he can secure acceptable terms.

    A ceasefire at the start of this year collapsed in March, and talks to revive it have so far been fruitless. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its military campaign in Gaza and sharply restricted food distribution.

    Gazans were watching closely for any sign of a breakthrough. “I ask God almighty that the negotiating delegation or the mediators pressure with all their strength to solve this issue, because it has totally became unbearable,” said Abu Suleiman Qadoum, a displaced resident of Gaza city.

    The Gaza war erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel in October 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Some 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.

    Israel’s retaliatory war in Gaza has killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to the enclave’s health ministry. Most of Gaza’s population has been displaced by the war and nearly half a million people are facing famine within months, according to United Nations estimates.

    Trump has been strongly supportive of Netanyahu, even wading into domestic Israeli politics last month by criticizing prosecutors over a corruption trial against the Israeli leader on bribery, fraud and breach-of-trust charges that Netanyahu denies.

    (Reuters)

  • Japan will continue trade talks with US for mutually beneficial deal, Ishiba says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Tuesday that he would continue negotiations with the U.S. to seek a mutually beneficial trade deal, after President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on goods from Japan starting August 1.

    Trump on Monday started notifying trade partners, from major suppliers like Japan and South Korea to minor players, of steep U.S. tariff hikes, but later indicated a willingness to delay implementation if countries made acceptable proposals.

    While Tokyo and Washington have yet to reach a deal, Ishiba noted that recent talks had helped Japan avoid even steeper tariffs of around 30-35% as suggested previously by Trump.

    “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised,” Ishiba said at a meeting with cabinet ministers to discuss Japan’s strategy on tariffs.

    Japan will “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest,” he added.

    Ishiba also asked his cabinet ministers to take steps to mitigate the blow from tariffs on industries and jobs.

    The latest development in the U.S. trade war drove the dollar up to a two-week high of 146.24 yen, potentially lifting already rising import costs.

    Japan failed to clinch a deal with the U.S. before a July 9 expiration of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs, due to its focus on eliminating a 25% tariff on automobiles – a mainstay of its export-reliant economy.

    With an upper house election on July 20, Ishiba has repeatedly said Japan will not make “easy concessions” for the sake of an early deal with Washington.

    Recent media polls have shown Ishiba’s ruling coalition may fail to maintain a majority in the upper house, which could complicate trade negotiations, analysts say.

    U.S. tariffs also add to woes for Japan’s economy, which shrank in the first quarter on soft consumption.

    Real wages in May fell at the fastest pace in nearly two years, while the government on Monday made the bleakest assessment on the economy in nearly five years.

    “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%,” said Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute.

    “If corporate profits worsen, it’s hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” he added.

    (Reuters)

  • Japan will continue trade talks with US for mutually beneficial deal, Ishiba says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Tuesday that he would continue negotiations with the U.S. to seek a mutually beneficial trade deal, after President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on goods from Japan starting August 1.

    Trump on Monday started notifying trade partners, from major suppliers like Japan and South Korea to minor players, of steep U.S. tariff hikes, but later indicated a willingness to delay implementation if countries made acceptable proposals.

    While Tokyo and Washington have yet to reach a deal, Ishiba noted that recent talks had helped Japan avoid even steeper tariffs of around 30-35% as suggested previously by Trump.

    “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised,” Ishiba said at a meeting with cabinet ministers to discuss Japan’s strategy on tariffs.

    Japan will “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest,” he added.

    Ishiba also asked his cabinet ministers to take steps to mitigate the blow from tariffs on industries and jobs.

    The latest development in the U.S. trade war drove the dollar up to a two-week high of 146.24 yen, potentially lifting already rising import costs.

    Japan failed to clinch a deal with the U.S. before a July 9 expiration of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs, due to its focus on eliminating a 25% tariff on automobiles – a mainstay of its export-reliant economy.

    With an upper house election on July 20, Ishiba has repeatedly said Japan will not make “easy concessions” for the sake of an early deal with Washington.

    Recent media polls have shown Ishiba’s ruling coalition may fail to maintain a majority in the upper house, which could complicate trade negotiations, analysts say.

    U.S. tariffs also add to woes for Japan’s economy, which shrank in the first quarter on soft consumption.

    Real wages in May fell at the fastest pace in nearly two years, while the government on Monday made the bleakest assessment on the economy in nearly five years.

    “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%,” said Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute.

    “If corporate profits worsen, it’s hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” he added.

    (Reuters)

  • Japan will continue trade talks with US for mutually beneficial deal, Ishiba says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Tuesday that he would continue negotiations with the U.S. to seek a mutually beneficial trade deal, after President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on goods from Japan starting August 1.

    Trump on Monday started notifying trade partners, from major suppliers like Japan and South Korea to minor players, of steep U.S. tariff hikes, but later indicated a willingness to delay implementation if countries made acceptable proposals.

    While Tokyo and Washington have yet to reach a deal, Ishiba noted that recent talks had helped Japan avoid even steeper tariffs of around 30-35% as suggested previously by Trump.

    “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised,” Ishiba said at a meeting with cabinet ministers to discuss Japan’s strategy on tariffs.

    Japan will “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest,” he added.

    Ishiba also asked his cabinet ministers to take steps to mitigate the blow from tariffs on industries and jobs.

    The latest development in the U.S. trade war drove the dollar up to a two-week high of 146.24 yen, potentially lifting already rising import costs.

    Japan failed to clinch a deal with the U.S. before a July 9 expiration of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs, due to its focus on eliminating a 25% tariff on automobiles – a mainstay of its export-reliant economy.

    With an upper house election on July 20, Ishiba has repeatedly said Japan will not make “easy concessions” for the sake of an early deal with Washington.

    Recent media polls have shown Ishiba’s ruling coalition may fail to maintain a majority in the upper house, which could complicate trade negotiations, analysts say.

    U.S. tariffs also add to woes for Japan’s economy, which shrank in the first quarter on soft consumption.

    Real wages in May fell at the fastest pace in nearly two years, while the government on Monday made the bleakest assessment on the economy in nearly five years.

    “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%,” said Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute.

    “If corporate profits worsen, it’s hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” he added.

    (Reuters)

  • Japan will continue trade talks with US for mutually beneficial deal, Ishiba says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Tuesday that he would continue negotiations with the U.S. to seek a mutually beneficial trade deal, after President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on goods from Japan starting August 1.

    Trump on Monday started notifying trade partners, from major suppliers like Japan and South Korea to minor players, of steep U.S. tariff hikes, but later indicated a willingness to delay implementation if countries made acceptable proposals.

    While Tokyo and Washington have yet to reach a deal, Ishiba noted that recent talks had helped Japan avoid even steeper tariffs of around 30-35% as suggested previously by Trump.

    “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised,” Ishiba said at a meeting with cabinet ministers to discuss Japan’s strategy on tariffs.

    Japan will “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest,” he added.

    Ishiba also asked his cabinet ministers to take steps to mitigate the blow from tariffs on industries and jobs.

    The latest development in the U.S. trade war drove the dollar up to a two-week high of 146.24 yen, potentially lifting already rising import costs.

    Japan failed to clinch a deal with the U.S. before a July 9 expiration of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs, due to its focus on eliminating a 25% tariff on automobiles – a mainstay of its export-reliant economy.

    With an upper house election on July 20, Ishiba has repeatedly said Japan will not make “easy concessions” for the sake of an early deal with Washington.

    Recent media polls have shown Ishiba’s ruling coalition may fail to maintain a majority in the upper house, which could complicate trade negotiations, analysts say.

    U.S. tariffs also add to woes for Japan’s economy, which shrank in the first quarter on soft consumption.

    Real wages in May fell at the fastest pace in nearly two years, while the government on Monday made the bleakest assessment on the economy in nearly five years.

    “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%,” said Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute.

    “If corporate profits worsen, it’s hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” he added.

    (Reuters)

  • Amarnath Yatra proceeds smoothly, over 90,000 pilgrims have ‘darshan’ in five days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra has been progressing peacefully over the past five days, with the number of pilgrims steadily increasing each day. As of Tuesday, over 90,000 devotees have undertaken the sacred pilgrimage since it commenced on July 3.

    On Tuesday, another batch of 7,541 pilgrims departed for the Kashmir Valley. According to officials, these Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys.

    “The first escorted convoy, comprising 148 vehicles and carrying 3,321 pilgrims, departed at 2:55 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,220 pilgrims, left at 4:03 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” said officials.

    In addition to those arriving from Bhagwati Nagar, many pilgrims are reaching the Valley directly and registering on the spot at the transit camps and base camps, according to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the pilgrimage.

    In light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, authorities have ensured stringent security measures this year. A multi-layered security apparatus has been deployed, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) supplementing the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. Security forces are stationed across all transit camps and along the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave shrine.

    Local residents have once again extended wholehearted support to the Yatra, reaffirming their long-standing tradition of hospitality. In a poignant gesture following the Pahalgam attack, locals welcomed the first batch of pilgrims at Qazigund – the Valley’s entry point via the Navyug Tunnel – with garlands and placards, expressing solidarity and sorrow.

    This year, the Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the auspicious festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Amarnath Yatra proceeds smoothly, over 90,000 pilgrims have ‘darshan’ in five days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra has been progressing peacefully over the past five days, with the number of pilgrims steadily increasing each day. As of Tuesday, over 90,000 devotees have undertaken the sacred pilgrimage since it commenced on July 3.

    On Tuesday, another batch of 7,541 pilgrims departed for the Kashmir Valley. According to officials, these Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys.

    “The first escorted convoy, comprising 148 vehicles and carrying 3,321 pilgrims, departed at 2:55 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,220 pilgrims, left at 4:03 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” said officials.

    In addition to those arriving from Bhagwati Nagar, many pilgrims are reaching the Valley directly and registering on the spot at the transit camps and base camps, according to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the pilgrimage.

    In light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, authorities have ensured stringent security measures this year. A multi-layered security apparatus has been deployed, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) supplementing the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. Security forces are stationed across all transit camps and along the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave shrine.

    Local residents have once again extended wholehearted support to the Yatra, reaffirming their long-standing tradition of hospitality. In a poignant gesture following the Pahalgam attack, locals welcomed the first batch of pilgrims at Qazigund – the Valley’s entry point via the Navyug Tunnel – with garlands and placards, expressing solidarity and sorrow.

    This year, the Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the auspicious festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Amarnath Yatra proceeds smoothly, over 90,000 pilgrims have ‘darshan’ in five days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra has been progressing peacefully over the past five days, with the number of pilgrims steadily increasing each day. As of Tuesday, over 90,000 devotees have undertaken the sacred pilgrimage since it commenced on July 3.

    On Tuesday, another batch of 7,541 pilgrims departed for the Kashmir Valley. According to officials, these Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys.

    “The first escorted convoy, comprising 148 vehicles and carrying 3,321 pilgrims, departed at 2:55 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,220 pilgrims, left at 4:03 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” said officials.

    In addition to those arriving from Bhagwati Nagar, many pilgrims are reaching the Valley directly and registering on the spot at the transit camps and base camps, according to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the pilgrimage.

    In light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, authorities have ensured stringent security measures this year. A multi-layered security apparatus has been deployed, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) supplementing the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. Security forces are stationed across all transit camps and along the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave shrine.

    Local residents have once again extended wholehearted support to the Yatra, reaffirming their long-standing tradition of hospitality. In a poignant gesture following the Pahalgam attack, locals welcomed the first batch of pilgrims at Qazigund – the Valley’s entry point via the Navyug Tunnel – with garlands and placards, expressing solidarity and sorrow.

    This year, the Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the auspicious festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Amarnath Yatra proceeds smoothly, over 90,000 pilgrims have ‘darshan’ in five days

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The annual Amarnath Yatra has been progressing peacefully over the past five days, with the number of pilgrims steadily increasing each day. As of Tuesday, over 90,000 devotees have undertaken the sacred pilgrimage since it commenced on July 3.

    On Tuesday, another batch of 7,541 pilgrims departed for the Kashmir Valley. According to officials, these Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys.

    “The first escorted convoy, comprising 148 vehicles and carrying 3,321 pilgrims, departed at 2:55 a.m. for the Baltal base camp. The second convoy, consisting of 161 vehicles and 4,220 pilgrims, left at 4:03 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” said officials.

    In addition to those arriving from Bhagwati Nagar, many pilgrims are reaching the Valley directly and registering on the spot at the transit camps and base camps, according to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the pilgrimage.

    In light of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, authorities have ensured stringent security measures this year. A multi-layered security apparatus has been deployed, with an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) supplementing the existing presence of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. Security forces are stationed across all transit camps and along the entire route from Jammu to the holy cave shrine.

    Local residents have once again extended wholehearted support to the Yatra, reaffirming their long-standing tradition of hospitality. In a poignant gesture following the Pahalgam attack, locals welcomed the first batch of pilgrims at Qazigund – the Valley’s entry point via the Navyug Tunnel – with garlands and placards, expressing solidarity and sorrow.

    This year, the Yatra will continue for 38 days, concluding on August 9, coinciding with the auspicious festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • Trump says US will send more weapons to Ukraine

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday the United States would send more weapons to Ukraine, primarily defensive ones, to help the war-torn country defend itself against intensifying Russian advances.

    Washington’s decision to halt some weapons shipments to Kyiv prompted it to warn the move would crimp its ability to fend off Russia’s air strikes and battlefield advances, while drawing criticism from Democrats and some of Trump’s fellow Republicans.

    “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to. They have to be able to defend themselves,” Trump told reporters at the White House at the start of a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    “They’re getting hit very hard now,” he added. “We’re going to have to send more weapons, defensive weapons, primarily.”

    In a statement the U.S. Defense Department later said it would send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine at Trump’s direction, to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace.

    The Pentagon said its initiative to evaluate military shipments around the world stayed in effect.

    On Friday, Trump had told reporters Ukraine would need Patriot missiles to defend itself, but he did not mention them again specifically on Monday. The Pentagon statement gave no details on the weapons to be shipped to Ukraine.

    After a telephone call with Trump on Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had agreed to work on increasing Kyiv’s capability to “defend the sky” as Russian attacks escalated.

    The leaders had discussed joint defense production, purchases and investments, he added.

    Ukraine has been asking Washington to sell it more Patriot missiles and systems that it sees as key to defending its cities from intensifying Russian air strikes.

    Germany said it was in talks on buying Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine to bridge the gap.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi leaves for Brasília after attending BRICS Summit in Rio

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ata-start=”194″ data-end=”351″>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, after attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, left for the capital city of Brasília for a state visit.

    During his visit, PM Modi will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and discuss issues related to India-Brazil relations.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister described his Rio visit as “very productive”.

    “The Rio leg of my Brazil visit was very productive. We had extensive deliberations at the BRICS Summit. I compliment President Lula and the Brazilian Government for the work they’ve done through their BRICS Presidency in making this platform even more effective. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also boost India’s friendship with various nations.”

    —IANS

  • Djokovic grinds past De Minaur to reach Wimbledon quarter-finals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Novak Djokovic reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals for the 16th time but it proved a hard day’s work at his Centre Court office as he ground past Australian Alex de Minaur on Monday.

    The 38-year-old started abysmally and lost the opening set in 31 minutes but eventually assumed control of a cagey battle to win 1-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 to keep alive his quest for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title.

    With Roger Federer watching from the front row of the Royal Box, the player whose record eight men’s titles Djokovic is trying to equal, the sixth seed’s usually surgical game malfunctioned early on as he dropped serve three times.

    The hustling and bustling De Minaur continued to cause Djokovic headaches with his shot-placement and movement but the Serb found his range to win the next two sets full of attritional baseline rallies.

    Even then Djokovic looked like getting dragged into a fifth set as De Minaur jumped 4-1 ahead in the fourth and had a point for a 5-1 lead, but he slammed the door shut just in time, winning five games in a row to take his place in the last eight where he will face Italian 22nd seed Flavio Cabolli.

    “I don’t know how I’m feeling to be honest. I’m still trying to process the whole match and what happened on the court. It wasn’t a great start for me, it was a great start for Alex,” a weary Djokovic said on court.

    “He was just managing the play better from the back of the court and I didn’t have many solutions. I was very pleased to hang tough in the right moments and win this one.”

    Djokovic has now won 43 of his last 45 matches at Wimbledon and not since 2017 has he failed to reach the final.

    The two losses were against Carlos Alcaraz in the last two finals, but for half an hour on Monday it looked as though Old Father Time might finally be catching up with him.

    FIRST MEETING

    Djokovic had never met the man nicknamed ‘Demon’ on a grass court after last year’s quarter-final between them never happened when the Australian withdrew with a hip injury.

    He predicted beforehand that the 26-year-old would be a handful on the surface and he was proved right.

    With a relaxed Federer watching in an immaculate blue suit and shades, Djokovic‘s game crumbled into a heap of double-faults, errant forehands and clumsy footwork.

    “Sometimes I wish I had a serve and volley, and a nice touch from the gentleman that’s there. That would help,” Djokovic said of his old rival after sealing his 101st Wimbledon win in a grinding three hours and 19 minutes.

    “It’s probably the first time he sees me and I win. The last two I lost. It’s good to break the curse.”

    De Minaur’s game plan seemed to be to drag Djokovic into cat and mouse rallies and initially it worked.

    But Djokovic rebooted his computer-like brain and chipped away at the Australian who must have believed he could snap his 10-match losing streak against top-10 players.

    Djokovic won a 34-stroke rally early in the second set but with service breaks being traded like a plummeting stock and Federer heading off for afternoon tea he simply could not shake off the tenacious De Minaur.

    Serving at 5-4, Djokovic had to save two break points before levelling the match. He looked more like his dominant best to control the third set and having not lost a two sets to one lead since 2010 it seemed like victory was a formality.

    There was another twist though and it was a mightily relieved Djokovic who closed out the win.

    -Reuters

  • PM Modi leaves for Brasília after concluding BRICS Summit in Rio

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, after attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, left for the capital city of Brasília for a state visit.

    During his visit, PM Modi will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and discuss issues related to India-Brazil relations.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister described his Rio visit as “very productive”.

    “The Rio leg of my Brazil visit was very productive. We had extensive deliberations at the BRICS Summit. I compliment President Lula and the Brazilian Government for the work they’ve done through their BRICS Presidency in making this platform even more effective. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also boost India’s friendship with various nations.”

    —IANS

  • Swiatek ends Tauson’s run to fly into Wimbledon quarter-finals

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A deluge of double faults dictated early terms before Iga Swiatek found her grasscourt wings to fly into the Wimbledon quarter-finals with a soaring 6-4 6-1 victory over an out-of-sorts Danish 23rd seed Clara Tauson on Monday.

    The cold and blustery wind swirling around Court One was clearly not to Swiatek’s liking as she opened her account with two double faults en route to dropping her serve to love.

    While the former world number one immediately got the break back, her serve kept misfiring as she produced two successive double faults to drop her serve again in the third game.

    But from 3-1 down in the first set, the Polish eighth seed barely put a foot wrong in a match that was over in 65 brutal minutes.

    “The beginning was pretty shaky with the double faults but I managed to play solid. I’m not sure if Clara was feeling that well, she said she was sick during the night and I hope she has a good recovery,” Swiatek told the crowd.

    “It’s never easy to keep your focus. Sometimes when you’re not feeling well you let go of everything and it can give you a boost. I hope she’s going to be fine.

    “It’s pretty amazing, this is the first time I’ve ever enjoyed London. Sorry guys… I mean I’ve always enjoyed it. I feel good on the court when I feel good off the court.”

    Swiatek had been prepared to face a barrage of one-shot winners from Tauson, who came into the match having served the most aces in this year’s women’s tournament.

    Her tally of 27 aces meant she was averaging an impressive nine per match during her run to the fourth round, which included a win over 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina two days ago.

    Expectations were certainly high that she could become the first Danish woman to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals in the professional era — so much so that Denmark’s King Frederik abandoned his plush Royal Box seat on Centre Court to watch Tauson in action on Court One.

    However, instead of adding to her ace count, Tauson surrendered the first set with a double fault and from then on her game fell apart as Swiatek won eight of the last nine games to reach the quarter-finals for the second time in three years.

    “If you want to beat Iga, you have to be 110%. Today I was probably around 30 and not feeling so great,” explained Tauson, who had never won a match in three previous appearances at Wimbledon.

    “She was a bit nervous in the beginning I think. But as soon as she wasn’t nervous anymore, I couldn’t follow my legs, and my head was not there. She’s probably impossible to beat.

    “It’s not funny to have to blame it on your health. I couldn’t really breathe… I didn’t have any power in my legs or in my arm. It’s really hard to serve. I’m really sad that it had to end like this. Today was really tough for me.”

    Swiatek will face Russia’s Liudmila Samsonova for a place in the semi-finals.

    -Reuters

  • PM Modi leaves for Brasilia for State Visit; talks on India-Brazil ties with Prez Lula on cards

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, after attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, left for the capital city of Brasília for a state visit.

    During his visit, Modi will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and discuss issues related to India-Brazil relations.

    In a post on X, the Prime Minister described his Rio visit as “very productive”.

    “The Rio leg of my Brazil visit was very productive. We had extensive deliberations at the BRICS Summit. I compliment President Lula and the Brazilian Government for the work they’ve done through their BRICS Presidency in making this platform even more effective. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also boost India’s friendship with various nations.”

    —IANS

  • Trump unveils 25% tariffs on goods from Japan, South Korea in letters to leaders

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    President Donald Trump said on Monday the U.S. would impose a 25% tariff on imports from Japan and South Korea beginning Aug. 1 as he unveiled the first two of an expected 12 letters to trading partners outlining the new levies they face.

    “If for any reason you decide to raise your Tariffs, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 25% that we charge,” Trump said in letters to the leaders of the two Asian countries, which he posted on his Truth Social platform.

    Later, Trump also announced the U.S. will impose 25% tariffs on Malaysia and Kazakhstan, 30% on South Africa and 40% on Laos and Myanmar.

    The rate for South Korea is the same as Trump initially announced on April 2, while the rate for Japan is 1 point higher than first announced. A week later, he capped all of the so-called reciprocal tariffs at 10% until July 9 to allow for negotiations. Only two agreements have so far been reached, with Britain and Vietnam.

    There was no immediate response from the Japanese or South Korean embassies on the announcement.

    About12 countries will receive letters from Trump, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said at a briefing without identifying them. She said Trump would sign an executive order on Monday formally delaying the July 9 deadline to August 1.

    “There will be additional letters in the coming days,” Leavitt said, adding that “we are close” on some deals.

    The European Union will not be receiving a letter setting out higher tariffs, EU sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday.

    U.S. stocks fell in response, the latest market ruction since Trump unleashed a global trade war on his return to office in January. His moves have repeatedly whipsawed financial markets and sent policymakers scrambling to protect their economies.

    U.S. stocks were driven to near bear-market territory by his cascade of tariff announcements through the early spring but quickly rebounded to record highs in the weeks after he put the stiffest levies on hold on April 9.

    The S&P 500 on Monday was down nearly 1%, its biggest drop in three weeks. U.S.-listed shares of Japanese automotive companies fell, with Toyota Motor down 4.1% at mid-afternoon trading and Honda Motor off by 3.8%. The dollar surged against both the Japanese yen and the South Korean won.

    U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said earlier on Monday he expected several trade announcements to be made in the next 48 hours, adding that his inbox was full of last-ditch offers from countries to clinch a tariff deal by the deadline.

    Bessent did not say which countries could get deals and what they might contain. Trump has kept much of the world guessing on the outcome of months of talks with countries hoping to avoid the hefty tariff hikes he has threatened.

    Countries have scrambled to hammer out deals before the Wednesday deadline. South Korea and Indonesia dispatched representatives to Washington, while Thailand submitted a new trade proposal offering zero tariffs on many U.S. goods.

    “We’ve had a lot of people change their tune in terms of negotiations. So my mailbox was full last night with a lot of new offers, a lot of new proposals,” Bessent said in an interview with CNBC. “So it’s going to be a busy couple of days.”

    BRICS THREAT

    For its part, the European Union still aims to reach a trade deal by July 9 after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Trump had a “good exchange,” a Commission spokesperson said.

    It was not clear, however, whether there had been a meaningful breakthrough in talks to stave off tariff hikes on the United States’ largest trading partner.

    Adding to the pressure, Trump threatened to impose a 17% tariff on EU food and agriculture exports, it emerged last week.

    Trump had said on Sunday the U.S. was close to finalizing several trade pacts and would notify other countries by July 9 of higher tariff rates. He said they would not take effect until Aug. 1, a three-week reprieve.

    He also put members of the developing nations’ BRICS group in his sights as its leaders met in Brazil, threatening an additional 10% tariff on any BRICS countries aligning themselves with “anti-American” policies.

    The new 10% tariff will be imposed on individual countries if they take anti-American policy actions, a source familiar with the matter said.

    The BRICS group comprises Brazil, Russia, India and China and South Africa along with recent joiners Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.

    Trump’s comments hit the South African rand.

    EU SEEKS EFFECTIVE APPROACH TO TRUMP

    The EU has been torn over whether to push for a quick and light trade deal or back its own economic clout in trying to negotiate a better outcome. It had already dropped hopes for a comprehensive trade agreement before the July deadline.

    “We want to reach a deal with the U.S. We want to avoid tariffs,” the spokesperson said at a daily briefing.

    Without a preliminary agreement, broad U.S. tariffs on most imports would rise from their current 10% to the rates set out by Trump on April 2. In the EU’s case, that would be 20%.

    Von der Leyen also held talks with the leaders of Germany, France and Italy at the weekend, Germany said. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has repeatedly stressed the need for a quick deal to protect industries vulnerable to tariffs ranging from cars to pharmaceuticals.

    The German spokesperson said the parties should allow themselves “another 24 or 48 hours to come to a decision.”

    Germany’s Mercedes-Benz MBGn.DEsaid on Monday its second-quarter unit sales of cars and vans had fallen 9%, blaming tariffs.

    Russia said BRICS was “a group of countries that share common approaches and a common world view on how to cooperate, based on their own interests.”

    “And this cooperation within BRICS has never been and will never be directed against any third countries,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

    (Reuters)

  • PM Modi gifts symbols of India’s cultural heritage to world leaders on five-nation tour

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship by presenting symbolic, handcrafted gifts to global leaders during his ongoing five-nation tour, reflecting the country’s artistic legacy and spiritual traditions.

    PM Modi gifted a hand-etched silver lion mounted on a Fuchsite stone base to Argentine President Javier Milei. The intricately crafted lion represents courage and leadership, while the green Fuchsite — often called the “Stone of Healing and Resilience” — adds a layer of natural symbolism. The piece highlights Rajasthan’s traditional metalwork and gemstone artistry, using materials sourced from India’s mineral-rich regions.

    To Argentina’s Vice President, Victoria Villarruel, PM Modi presented a traditional Madhubani painting depicting the Sun, crafted in Bihar’s Mithila region. Known for its bold lines, intricate patterns and natural colours, Madhubani art is a centuries-old tradition associated with festivals and rituals. The Sun, surrounded by floral motifs, symbolises life and energy.

    In Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar received two gifts reflecting India’s cultural and spiritual ethos. One was a Kalash containing water from the River Sarayu, considered sacred in Hindu tradition and believed to bring peace and prosperity. The Sarayu flows through Ayodhya, regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram, and the metal Kalash symbolises sanctity and abundance.

    The other gift was a pure silver replica of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, crafted by artisans in Uttar Pradesh. The miniature model captures the temple’s distinctive architecture and stands as a tribute to India’s temple craftsmanship, signifying devotion and cultural pride.

    These gifts, seen as acts of cultural diplomacy, come as PM Modi seeks to strengthen India’s ties with partner countries during the five-nation visit covering Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia from July 2 to 9. 

    ANI

  • Iran’s president says Tehran open to dialogue with US, accuses Israel of assassination attempt

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said he believes Iran can resolve its differences with the United States through dialogue, but trust would be an issue after U.S. and Israeli attacks on his country, according to an interview released on Monday.

    “I am of the belief that we could very much easily resolve our differences and conflicts with the United States through dialogue and talks,” Pezeshkian told conservative U.S. podcaster Tucker Carlson in an interview conducted on Saturday.

    The Iranian leader urged U.S. President Donald Trump not to be drawn into war with Iran by Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting Washington on Monday for talks at the White House.

    “The United States’ president, Mr. Trump, he is capable enough to guide the region towards the peace and a brighter future and put Israel in its place. Or get into a pit, an endless pit, or a swamp,” Pezeshkian said. “So it is up to the United States president to choose which path.”

    White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said she was not sure if Trump had seen the Iranian president’s comments, but agreed he was the right man to move the region towards peace.

    Pezeshkian blamed Israel, Iran’s arch-enemy, for the collapse of talks that were in place when Israel began its strikes on Iran on June 13, starting a 12-day air war with Israel in which top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists were killed.

    “How are we going to trust the United States again?” Pezeshkian said. “How can we know for sure that in the middle of the talks the Israeli regime will not be given the permission again to attack us?”

    Pezeshkian also said that Israel tried to assassinate him.

    “They did try, yes,” he said. “They acted accordingly, but they failed.”

    Israel did not immediately respond to the allegation. A senior Israeli military official said last month that Israel killed more than 30 senior security officials and 11 senior nuclear scientists in its attack on to Iran’s nuclear sites.

    Trump said he expected to discuss Iran and its nuclear ambitions with Netanyahu, praising the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites as a tremendous success. On Friday, he told reporters that he believed Tehran’s nuclear program had been set back permanently, although Iran could restart efforts elsewhere.

    Iran has always denied seeking a nuclear weapon.

    -Reuters

  • Climate justice a “moral obligation”: PM Modi urges fair tech access and finance for developing nations at BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday underscored India’s commitment to climate action and equitable health security, calling for urgent technology transfer and affordable financing for developing nations to bridge the gap between climate ambition and action.

    Addressing a session on ‘Environment, COP-30 and Global Health’ at the BRICS Summit in Brazil, PM Modi said he was glad that under Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s chairmanship, BRICS has prioritised key issues that are “interconnected and vital for the bright future of humanity.”

    “This year, COP-30 is being held in Brazil, making these discussions timely and relevant,” he said. “For India, climate change is not just about managing energy demands but about maintaining the delicate balance between life and nature.”

    The Prime Minister noted that climate action is deeply woven into India’s culture and daily life. “In our tradition, the Earth is respected as a mother. When Mother Earth needs us, we respond — by transforming mindsets, behaviours, and lifestyles.”

    The PM highlighted India’s flagship initiatives such as Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in the Name of Mother), the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Global Biofuels Alliance, the Green Hydrogen Mission, and the Big Cats Alliance.

    PM Modi also pointed out that India had fulfilled its Paris Climate Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, and was progressing steadily towards its Net Zero target for 2070. “In the last decade, India has seen a 4000% increase in its installed solar energy capacity,” he said.

    Calling climate justice a “moral obligation,” PM Modi emphasised that developing countries must receive fair access to technology and affordable finance. “Bridging the gap between climate ambition and financing is a special responsibility of developed nations. Without this, climate action will remain limited to climate talk,” he said.

    The PM also welcomed the “Framework Declaration on Climate Finance” adopted by BRICS leaders, calling it an “important step in the right direction.”

    On health, PM Modi said the pandemic demonstrated how “viruses do not require visas and solutions cannot be chosen based on passports.” He added that India’s “One Earth, One Health” approach had guided its global cooperation during COVID-19 and beyond.

    Outlining India’s health initiatives, including Ayushman Bharat — the world’s largest health insurance scheme — and the expansion of traditional medicine systems and digital health services, the PM said, “We are ready to share our experience with countries of the Global South.”

    The Prime Minister welcomed the BRICS Vaccine R&D Centre, launched in 2022, and the new “Leader’s Statement on BRICS Partnership for Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases,” saying it would inspire stronger cooperation.

    Looking ahead to India’s chairmanship of BRICS in 2026, PM Modi pledged to keep the concerns of the Global South at the forefront and redefine the grouping as “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.”

    “Just as we brought inclusivity to the G20, we will take BRICS forward with a people-centric, ‘Humanity First’ approach,” he said, congratulating President Lula for successfully hosting the summit and for Brazil’s warm hospitality.

  • PM Modi meets Bolivian President Luis Arce Catacora on sidelines of BRICS Summit in Rio

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met with the President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Luis Arce Catacora, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

    The two leaders reviewed the status of bilateral cooperation and expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved across various sectors. They discussed collaboration in critical minerals, trade and commerce, Digital Public Infrastructure and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), health and pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, small and medium industries, training, and capacity building.

    Both leaders recognised the scope for expanding cooperation in the critical minerals sector and underlined the need to build sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships in this area. They also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing development cooperation between the two countries, including the implementation of Quick Impact Projects and capacity-building initiatives under India’s ITEC scholarship programme.

    The Prime Minister conveyed his solidarity with the people of Bolivia in the wake of the severe flooding that affected La Paz and several other regions in March-April this year.

    PM Modi also welcomed Bolivia’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance and extended his warm greetings to the people and Government of Bolivia on the country’s upcoming bicentennial, marking 200 years of independence on 6 August 2025.

  • PM Modi meets Bolivian President Luis Arce Catacora on sidelines of BRICS Summit in Rio

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met with the President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Luis Arce Catacora, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

    The two leaders reviewed the status of bilateral cooperation and expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved across various sectors. They discussed collaboration in critical minerals, trade and commerce, Digital Public Infrastructure and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), health and pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, small and medium industries, training, and capacity building.

    Both leaders recognised the scope for expanding cooperation in the critical minerals sector and underlined the need to build sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships in this area. They also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing development cooperation between the two countries, including the implementation of Quick Impact Projects and capacity-building initiatives under India’s ITEC scholarship programme.

    The Prime Minister conveyed his solidarity with the people of Bolivia in the wake of the severe flooding that affected La Paz and several other regions in March-April this year.

    PM Modi also welcomed Bolivia’s decision to join the International Solar Alliance and extended his warm greetings to the people and Government of Bolivia on the country’s upcoming bicentennial, marking 200 years of independence on 6 August 2025.

  • PM Modi meets Uruguayan President Orsi on sidelines of BRICS Summit in Rio

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the President of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, Yamandu Orsi, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

    During their meeting, the two leaders held wide-ranging discussions covering the full spectrum of bilateral relations. They reviewed cooperation in areas such as digital collaboration, information and communication technology (ICT), Digital Public Infrastructure and Unified Payments Interface (UPI), defence, railways, health and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, energy, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

    A major focus of their talks was on strengthening bilateral trade and investment. Both sides expressed keen interest in expanding the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement, aiming to unlock greater economic potential and harness trade complementarities between India and Uruguay.

    The Prime Minister also conveyed his gratitude to President Orsi for Uruguay’s strong condemnation of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and appreciated the country’s solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms.

    The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to build a forward-looking and robust bilateral partnership.

  • We will define BRICS in new form under India’s chairmanship: PM Modi in Brazil

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would redefine the BRICS grouping under its upcoming chairmanship.

    Addressing the BRICS Summit in Brazil, PM Modi said, “Under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will define BRICS in a new form. BRICS would mean ‘Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.’”

    PM Modi affirmed that India would carry forward the spirit of people-centric progress during its leadership of the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

    “In the coming year, under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will continue close cooperation on all subjects,” the PM said.

    The Prime Minister underlined how India’s presidency of the G20 elevated the concerns of the developing world and promised a similar approach for BRICS.

    “Just as during our G-20 Presidency, we ensured inclusivity and prioritised issues of the Global South in the agenda,” he said. “In the same way, during our BRICS Chairmanship, we will take this forum forward with a people-centric approach and the spirit of ‘Humanity First.’”

    This message of unity and collaboration was reflected earlier in the day, as Prime Minister Modi, along with other BRICS leaders, partners, and outreach invitees, gathered for the traditional family photo at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday morning (local time).

    The summit brought together leaders and representatives from BRICS nations and partner countries to discuss cooperation and strategic partnerships, marking a moment of unity and collaboration among the countries the grouping represents.

    Hosted by Brazil from July 7 to July 9, the summit saw leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia come together for the event. Prime Minister Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

    During the summit, the leaders held productive discussions on various issues on the BRICS agenda, including the reform of global governance, enhancing the voice of the Global South, peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, development issues, and Artificial Intelligence.

    PM Modi thanked the President of Brazil for his warm hospitality and the successful organisation of the summit.

    (ANI)

  • We will define BRICS in new form under India’s chairmanship: PM Modi in Brazil

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said India would redefine the BRICS grouping under its upcoming chairmanship.

    Addressing the BRICS Summit in Brazil, PM Modi said, “Under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will define BRICS in a new form. BRICS would mean ‘Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.’”

    PM Modi affirmed that India would carry forward the spirit of people-centric progress during its leadership of the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

    “In the coming year, under India’s BRICS Chairmanship, we will continue close cooperation on all subjects,” the PM said.

    The Prime Minister underlined how India’s presidency of the G20 elevated the concerns of the developing world and promised a similar approach for BRICS.

    “Just as during our G-20 Presidency, we ensured inclusivity and prioritised issues of the Global South in the agenda,” he said. “In the same way, during our BRICS Chairmanship, we will take this forum forward with a people-centric approach and the spirit of ‘Humanity First.’”

    This message of unity and collaboration was reflected earlier in the day, as Prime Minister Modi, along with other BRICS leaders, partners, and outreach invitees, gathered for the traditional family photo at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday morning (local time).

    The summit brought together leaders and representatives from BRICS nations and partner countries to discuss cooperation and strategic partnerships, marking a moment of unity and collaboration among the countries the grouping represents.

    Hosted by Brazil from July 7 to July 9, the summit saw leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia come together for the event. Prime Minister Modi participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement.

    During the summit, the leaders held productive discussions on various issues on the BRICS agenda, including the reform of global governance, enhancing the voice of the Global South, peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, development issues, and Artificial Intelligence.

    PM Modi thanked the President of Brazil for his warm hospitality and the successful organisation of the summit.

    (ANI)