INDIA BANGLADESH CHINA BORDER
Shipping data shows China trimming fuel exports, not halting
China is reducing refined fuel exports, not banning them. Shipments to countries like Malaysia and Australia continue. April export cuts are deeper than March. Hong Kong continues to receive robust fuel supplies. This comes as global fuel markets face tight supplies. China's actions are deliberate allocations, not blanket restrictions.
West Bengal polls: ECI flags 55 seats as 'expenditure sensitive'
West Bengal faces heightened election scrutiny. The Election Commission has marked 55 constituencies as expenditure sensitive. This year, 100 observers are deployed, the highest number across poll-bound regions. Seizures of cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies have surged. Several border areas and urban centers are under close watch to ensure fair elections.
Government appoints former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi as Bangladesh envoy
Former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi has been appointed India's high commissioner to Bangladesh, a first for the Modi government appointing a politician to head a diplomatic mission. He faces the challenge of repairing strained ties with Dhaka, which have deteriorated following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ouster and an adversarial stance by the new government.
Former Union minister Dinesh Trivedi expected to be India's next High Commissioner to Bangladesh
Dinesh Trivedi is poised to take on the pivotal role of India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, succeeding Pranay Verma, who has transitioned to Belgium. As New Delhi looks to revitalize its relationship with Dhaka, Trivedi's extensive diplomatic background positions him well for this crucial appointment. The official confirmation is on the horizon.
West Bengal polls: Mamata betrayed Bengal's women by conspiring with parties like Congress, says Nitin Nabin
BJP president Nitin Nabin blamed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Congress for the failure of the women's reservation bill. He urged voters to remove the TMC government to drive out infiltrators and ensure national security. Nabin promised good governance and a secure environment for all citizens if the BJP is voted to power.
Bangladesh raises fuel prices as Iran war drives up costs
Bangladesh has made a tough choice to raise fuel prices by up to 15 percent, a direct response to rising crude oil costs and supply interruptions stemming from conflicts in the Middle East. This price hike affects petrol, diesel, and kerosene, reflecting the harsh realities of the global market.
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India medical tourism slips below pre-Covid peak amid geopolitics, visa delays and rising Asian competition
India's medical tourism is facing challenges. Arrivals have dropped significantly below pre-Covid levels. Geopolitical tensions and visa delays are impacting the sector. Competition from other Asian nations is also a factor. Industry leaders suggest focusing on high-tech, reliable healthcare delivery to attract international patients. Improvements in ties with Bangladesh could help reverse the trend.
India-China SCO talks focus on trade security, connectivity under first bilateral consultations
India and China held their first bilateral consultations on the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in New Delhi. Both nations agreed to enhance cooperation on security, trade, and regional connectivity. Discussions focused on implementing SCO leaders' decisions and the organization's future direction. This meeting aims to build confidence and stabilize bilateral ties amid global shifts.
First loaded Iranian oil tankers exit Gulf since US blockade: Kpler
Three Iranian oil tankers have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, carrying five million barrels of crude. This marks the first such departure since a US blockade was imposed. The vessels, Deep Sea, Sonia I, and Diona, are under US sanctions. Their destinations remain unknown, but they have historically transferred oil near Singapore for onward shipment to China.
Chirag Paswan flags spice export quality issues, says rejections are “disheartening and embarrassing”
Union Minister Paswan highlighted spices’ historic role in India’s trade and their vast untapped potential beyond culinary use.
Border villages in WB's Murshidabad caught in whirlpool of infiltration politics, identity fears
Illegal immigration from Bangladesh dominates politics in Murshidabad's border areas. Parties debate infiltration, identity cards, and demographic changes. Residents face scrutiny and fear name deletions from voter lists. The unfenced border fuels smuggling. Both major parties use the issue, while smaller parties criticize the focus on the border over local issues.
West Bengal assembly elections 2026: BJP stresses security, TMC eyes revival in Siliguri corridor
The BJP and Trinamool Congress are in a direct electoral battle for four assembly seats in Siliguri. This region, known as the Siliguri corridor, is strategically important. The BJP aims to retain its hold after winning all four seats in 2021. The Trinamool Congress seeks to regain influence. Voters are concerned about border security and local economic issues.
India-China energy cooperation doesn't require warm relations, or lofty civilisational rhetoric
India and China face a new opportunity in energy markets. Past cooperation in Africa, despite challenges, shows potential. Both nations seek stable energy imports, bypassing geopolitical risks. This shared need can drive future joint ventures. New energy projects in Africa could form a strong foundation for collaboration. This pragmatic approach is vital for securing energy supplies.
China tells travellers to use caution after 'malicious' US border checks
China has issued a travel advisory for its citizens heading to the United States. The advisory urges caution and suggests avoiding entry through Seattle's main airport. This follows reports of Chinese scholars facing "malicious" border checks and being denied entry despite holding valid visas. Chinese authorities are advising travelers to remain calm if questioned by US border officials.
Iran war exposes cost of Asia's fossil fuel reliance
The latest global energy shock highlights the risks of fuel import dependence, with Bangladesh hit hard by soaring LNG costs after supply disruptions, forcing costly spot purchases. In contrast, Pakistan’s shift to solar reduced reliance on imports and cushioned the impact. The divergence underscores the need for emerging economies to accelerate clean energy adoption to limit exposure to price volatility.
Bangladesh seeks $2 billion from development partners to meet energy demand
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman sought a USD 2 billion fund from development partners to meet the country's immediate energy needs and safeguard its economic stability, state-run BSS news agency reported.
US Sec 301 probe: India rejects allegations, requests for terminations of both investigations
India has strongly rejected US allegations of excess structural capacity and production, asserting the USTR's investigation lacks a "cogent rationale." New Delhi has requested a negative determination and termination of the probe, emphasizing that trade concerns should be addressed through bilateral negotiations. India also denies allegations regarding forced labor, seeking termination of that investigation as well.
China surpasses US as India's largest trading partner in FY26; trade gap swells to USD 112.16 bn
India's trade with China reached USD 151.1 billion in 2025-26, making it the largest partner. The trade deficit with China widened significantly. The US was previously the top partner for four years. India's exports to China saw substantial growth, while imports also increased. Trade with the US showed marginal export growth and increased imports, leading to a reduced trade surplus.
China says policy to improve relations with India remains unchanged
China has defended its decision to publish new names for regions in Arunachal Pradesh. India has rejected these 'fictitious names' stating they cannot alter the reality of Indian territory. China claims Arunachal Pradesh as its own. Both nations are engaged in a diplomatic exchange over territorial claims. China states its policy to improve relations remains unchanged.
West Bengal polls 2026: Amid voter row, Nadia’s Matua belt shows BJP leanings, minimal deletions
In West Bengal’s Nadia district, Matua voters in border villages like Majhdia navigate a unique reality—crossing fenced borders daily to farm while weighing political choices amid voter roll concerns, economic stress and identity rooted in migration.
China sets up new county in Xinjiang near PoK, Afghan border
China has created a new county named Cenling in Xinjiang. This area is strategically located near Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Afghanistan. The move aims to bolster security along the Wakhan Corridor. China seeks to prevent Uyghur separatist militants from entering the region. This is the third new county established in Xinjiang recently.
Bangladesh eyes India route to refine Russian crude amid supply crunch
Bangladesh is looking to refine Russian crude oil in India. This move aims to overcome fuel supply issues caused by the West Asia conflict. Bangladesh will cover all costs for crude import, refining, and fuel transportation. The country's own refinery is not suitable for Russian crude. This plan could boost diesel imports from India.
Textiles see tariff scars, exports to US drop 29% in February; China hit most
Imports from India declined 28.7% year-on-year, compared with a 16.4% fall from Bangladesh, while Vietnam recorded a 5% increase, according to data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel. Imports from China recorded the steepest decline at 45.2%, an analysis by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industries showed.
A quiet new reset is loading in India's backyard and the world is watching
India-Bangladesh relations: Ater navigating through diplomatic hurdles, India and Bangladesh are now on a path to rejuvenate their partnership. Recent high-level discussions have emphasised key areas like energy trade, simplifying visa regulations, and enhancing security alliances. Bangladesh's increasing demand for diesel and fertiliser from India has set the stage for cooperative initiatives.
Bangladesh’s BNP sends large delegation to China, tests ties with India
Bangladesh's ruling party is sending a large delegation to China. This visit aims to boost cooperation and exchange experiences with the Communist Party of China. The delegation includes senior party leaders and ministers. This move rekindles decades-old ties. Bangladesh's foreign minister is also scheduled to visit China later this month. He is expected to meet his Chinese counterpart.
Beyond the Fence: Villagers in Ahio seek development in upcoming West Bengal Assembly polls
Residents near the Habibpur Border in Ahio face challenges. A closed primary health centre forces villagers to travel for medical care. While some infiltration occurs, locals say it is low due to BSF presence. Development and basic facilities remain a concern for these long-term residents.
Bangladesh Foreign Minister Visit: Both sides to 'engage constructively'
India and Bangladesh are set to boost their relationship. Dhaka has requested increased energy supplies, including diesel and fertilisers, from India. This comes as global supply chains face disruptions. The agreement was reached during a meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman.
Partition memories endure at India’s 'last rail outpost' in Bengal polls
A land deed from Bangladesh holds deep significance for Balaram Mondal in Singhabad, West Bengal. His family migrated during Partition, leaving property behind. The village, a former rail hub, now sees only goods trains. Most residents are Hindu, with roots in Bangladesh. Their names remain on electoral rolls. Maldaha, a reserved constituency, is set to vote soon.
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