INDIA BRICS PRESIDENCY
India’s ‘dear friend’ is back in power in Brazil, and a $30 billion trade opportunity is on the table
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election, pledging to deepen the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership. Bilateral trade rose 25% to $15.21 billion in 2025, with Lula setting a target of $30 billion.
Lula, Bolsonaro trade barbs over cost of living in final debate before Brazil runoff
Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva engaged in a heated debate on cost of living. Both candidates aimed to win over undecided voters ahead of a tight election runoff. Bolsonaro criticized Lula's past while emphasizing his proposals for security and welfare. Lula defended his minimum wage increases and highlighted progress in reducing hunger in Brazil.
India, Russia aim for $100 billion trade by 2030 as Modi, Putin push cooperation
Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar announced collaboration plans between India and Russia to increase trade significantly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have directed efforts toward enhancing mutual investments. India is ready to provide qualified workers to meet Russia's industry requirements by training specialists. The leaders reviewed these plans during their recent meeting at the BRICS summit in New Delhi.
Kim Jong-un death rumours: North Korean leader seen at expo after claims of his death, sister taking over power
Kim Jong-un death rumours have surfaced on social media, with Wanjun Xie, chairman of the China Democracy Party, claiming that the North Korean leader died after suffering a cerebral haemorrhage. Xie also alleged that Kim’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has taken control of the regime instead of his daughter, Kim Ju-ae. However, North Korea has challenged the death rumours by releasing fresh images of Kim Jong-un attending a garment and footwear exhibition.
In Brazil, a stolen phone can cost more than money — and shape an election
Cellphone theft remains a significant concern for many Brazilians amid a decline in overall crime rates. In Sao Paulo, where phone thefts are highly prevalent, both presidential candidates are responding to public unease. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has introduced increased penalties for phone theft, while challenger Flavio Bolsonaro has proposed stricter sentences. Affected individuals express feelings of vulnerability and stress after experiencing theft, further highlighting public safety issues.
Who is Kim Jong Un’s sister Kim Yo Jong? The most powerful woman in North Korea who is said to have taken over from her brother
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reportedly the most powerful woman in North Korea was claimed to have taken over from her brother following his alleged death. North Korean state media has since released photos of Kim attending a public event.
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Modi likely to visit Russia in 2027 for annual summit: Kremlin
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Russia next year for an annual summit. Originally, the visit was scheduled for December, but other meetings complicated the timeline. Dmitry Peskov confirmed that the visit is more likely to occur next year. The leaders of India and Russia meet annually following a strategic partnership declaration. Modi's future visit will mark nearly 80 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Lula vs Bolsonaro: As Brazil lies on the brink of tilting right, India watches its major BRICS partner
Flávio Bolsonaro secured leading votes against incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brazil's elections on October 4. The runoff on October 25 could solidify right-wing power across South America, following a regional trend. Lula aims to reduce economic inequality while Bolsonaro focuses on crime and spending cuts. India is observing the elections closely due to its strategic partnership with Brazil in various sectors.
‘For global trade’s sake, hope our US deal is inked soon’: FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Nirmala Sitharaman expressed optimism regarding the speedy conclusion of the India-US trade agreement during her recent interaction. She highlighted challenges in trade relations with China due to non-tariff barriers causing problems for Indian exporters. The Finance Minister advocated for promoting rupee-denominated trade settlements to assist nations experiencing hard currency shortages. Sitharaman emphasized the importance of public investment in infrastructure to bolster economic growth despite global disruptions.
We are working to develop relations with China once again: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that India seeks to improve relations with China, ensuring fair deals. Bilateral trade between India and China reached USD 127.7 billion, which reflects significant growth in exports and imports. Furthermore, Goyal expressed concerns regarding the widening trade deficit and tightened FDI policies due to geopolitical tensions. India experienced supply chain vulnerabilities during Covid, leading to a focus on self-sufficiency.
Indian Embassy in Indonesia introduces AI avatar "Dewi"
The Indian Embassy in Jakarta has launched an AI avatar named Dewi to enhance connections between cultures. This digital initiative offers updates on Indian culture, travel, business, and consular services, celebrating the festival of Navaratri and Durga Puja. India's Ambassador to Indonesia hailed this as a vital step in strengthening the India-Indonesia partnership, while External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar advocates for responsible discussions around AI technology.
India-Iran NSAs hold conversation amid fresh incidents in Hormuz Strait; Saudi situation
India and Iran's National Security Advisers exchanged views on regional tensions following Houthi attacks and maritime security concerns. They discussed the recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz that affected Indian seafarers. The conversation included topics like the ongoing situation in Afghanistan and connectivity projects. The Indian government emphasized the importance of the safety of its nationals and maritime commerce.
MP & former FS Shringla highlights significance of Russian oil supplies in interests of India’s 1.4 billion people & keeping global energy prices under control
Harsh Vardhan Shringla has defended India’s Russian oil imports, warning that stopping purchases could push up global energy prices and undermine the country’s energy security. The Rajya Sabha MP also flagged uncertainty over US tariffs, Section 301 investigations and potential duties linked to Russian oil sanctions, as India-US trade talks face an impasse. He also outlined conditions for India-China ties.
No Fitch, Moody's or S&P, please: The Big 3 face a new challenge
The African Union established the Africa Credit Rating Agency to provide better assessments for African economies. This initiative aims to address global rating agencies' perceived biases and shortcomings. Credit ratings for African nations currently suffer from a significant information gap compared to other regions. The new agency could enhance local capital markets by focusing on domestic debt markets and investments.
Our central mission must be patient-centric innovation: JP Nadda
J P Nadda urges industry to take discoveries ‘from bench to bedside’ as the FICCI–Lilly Bharat Life Sciences Award backs its inaugural cohort with ₹7 crore in grants
Ghana Cabinet clears BRICS bid as Jaishankar visits Accra
Ghana is one of Africa's politically and economically stable countries and among India's oldest partners in the continent. Jaishankar said India has "always been very sympathetic and supportive of Ghana's aspirations and goals", but pointed out that the BRICS bid is "an issue of collective consideration" for the bloc.
Russia grateful to India for its readiness to help resolve Ukraine conflict: Kremlin
India has put forward a significant plan aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, receiving praise from Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the importance of India's initiative, highlighting the harmonious relationship between the two nations. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted that India's proposal stands out as the most extensive in comparison to other countries' offers.
India navigating multipolar 'age of flux', says Jaishankar; talks on with Russia, Ukraine for safe Black Sea passage
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirmed the importance of the US as a primary strategic partner for India. He emphasized India's nuanced approach to relationships with various nations including China and Russia. Jaishankar also addressed the challenges in securing grain and fuel shipments amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He called for a reform in the United Nations to better represent the Global South.
Trump swaps India and Brazil, and the world is left to guess whether it is football or BRICS
Donald Trump made a notable mix-up by confusing India's presidential election voting with voting in Brazil. This occurred just after Brazil's football victory over India in a friendly match. Some speculate that this confusion was intentional to influence Brazilian voting behavior. The article discusses how this could be linked to Trump's political ambitions for Brazil's elections. The situation highlights the unexpected connections between politics and sports on the global stage.
Egypt navigates Mecca pact, steps up ties with India
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deliberate over the Mecca Pact. Their talks centered on fostering robust bilateral strategic partnerships, amid Egypt's choice to refrain from joining the defense pact. Observers remark that the Mecca Pact's relevance is questionable due to a shared enemy's absence. Nonetheless, Egypt positions itself as a crucial stabilizing force within the region.
As India and China repair ties, a Tibet film tells the story of a forgotten resistance
A new Tibetan historical drama, Four Rivers Six Ranges, is bringing renewed attention to Tibet’s resistance movement and the exile community’s efforts to preserve its history. The film, shot partly in Nepal’s Mustang region, follows fighters who aided the Dalai Lama’s 1959 escape and arrives as Tibet’s political future faces uncertainty over the Dalai Lama’s succession and evolving India-China ties.
Putin praises Modi’s ‘good ideas’ for peaceful resolution of Ukraine conflict
Vladimir Putin acknowledged Narendra Modi's commitment to ending the Ukraine conflict and praised his ideas for resolution. Modi has maintained a humanitarian stance while advocating for dialogue to achieve peace. The Russian President expressed gratitude for Modi's ongoing support to resolve the situation. Both leaders have discussed enhanced cooperation in various sectors during their recent meetings. Modi indicated India's willingness to aid in meaningful peace efforts between the involved parties.
Astana International Financial Centre explores to partner with India's GIFT City
Astana International Financial Centre is exploring potential collaboration with India's GIFT city due to regional proximity. This partnership aims to enhance financial services and investment opportunities between Kazakhstan and India. AIFC has established itself as a leading financial hub in Central Asia since its launch in 2018. Initiatives from AIFC include developments in sustainable finance and digital assets.
FM Sitharaman meets AIIB President, suggests expansion of financing beyond physical infra
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Zou Jiayi and suggested the bank expand its focus to include newer infrastructure that centres on AI, MSMEs, and skilling. She reiterated that the bank's regional centrality should continue to remain a defining institutional characteristic and an important anchor of its mandate. Both leaders discussed AIIB's robust pipeline of projects in India and its expanding global presence.
India-China ties 'better' today as compared to couple of years ago: EAM Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the improved relations between India and China as border tensions ease. He noted that the resolution of these issues has led to increased normalcy in their relationship. Jaishankar also pointed out the importance of avoiding conflicts that serve third parties' interests in global dynamics. The changing global scenario is pushing nations to seek optimal solutions and adapt accordingly.
Chabahar-Zahedan rail link completed, to boost India's access to Central Asia
Iran has successfully completed the Chabahar-Zahedan rail link, a significant step in improving regional connectivity. This railway infrastructure is key for India, providing crucial access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, both of which are landlocked. The construction includes various stations, tunnels, and bridges, and is set to become operational in three to four months. India is also in talks for management rights over Chabahar Port to enhance trade and transport.
It's not BRICS or the UN, BRICS is supportive of the UN: EAM Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said choosing between BRICS and the United Nations is a “false choice”, arguing that BRICS supports the UN and seeks its reform.
Jaishankar meets Russia, Iran foreign ministers at UNGA days after Trump signs sanctions law
During the UN General Assembly, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conferred with officials from Russia and Iran, highlighting vital areas like bilateral ties, BRICS collaboration, and the Gulf conflict. He reaffirmed India's focus on energy security in light of recent US sanctions. Furthermore, Jaishankar participated in discussions with the Gulf Cooperation Council to fortify partnerships, alongside co-chairing a dialogue centered on the ramifications of artificial intelligence on maritime security.
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