MECCA JOINT DEFENSE AGREEMENT
India, UK seek deeper investment ties
The agreement was part of the joint statement adopted after the fourth UK-India Financial Markets Dialogue, held in London on September 29 , the finance ministry said.
Dixon Technologies signs JV pact with Gemtek to manufacture optical transceivers
Dixon Technologies India Ltd has entered a joint venture with Gemtek Technology Co to produce telecom products. This joint venture, named Dixon Electroconnect Pvt Ltd, will give Dixon a 60 percent stake. The partnership aims to combine manufacturing capabilities with Gemtek's expertise in high-speed optical modules and telecom technology. The joint venture will address rising demands in AI, cloud computing, and networking.
India, Norway discuss green partnership, EFTA trade ties, Arctic cooperation
Sibi George of the Ministry of External Affairs met Norway's State Secretary Astrid Bergmal in New Delhi for discussions. They addressed enhancing the India-Norway Green Strategic Partnership and boosting trade ties under the India-EFTA framework. The conversation also touched on cooperation in fisheries and Arctic affairs, in addition to regional and global issues. Furthermore, George met Austria's National Security Advisor Dr. Peter Vorhofer to strengthen India-Austria cooperation in security matters.
Vance, in interview, says Iran must make ‘meaningful’ enrichment cuts to end seven-month war
US Vice President JD Vance stated that Iran must significantly reduce its nuclear enrichment capacity to meet US demands. Vance expressed uncertainty about how decisions are made in Iran's leadership following recent clashes. The US maintains that they will not make concessions without concrete Iranian nuclear actions. Simultaneously, the war has raised political concerns for President Trump and the Republican party before the midterm elections.
Adani Power, Bhutan's DGPC sign pact to develop 770 MW hydropower project
Adani Power and Bhutan's state-owned Druk Green Power Corporation have signed an agreement to jointly develop the 770 MW Chamkharchhu-I Hydroelectric Project. The project will be built through a 49:51 equity partnership under the BOOT model, with construction expected to begin in the first half of 2027 and commissioning within six years.
Pakistan, Turkiye agree to deploy forces in Saudi Arabia under trilateral pact
The defence agreement, signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye in August, establishes a framework for collective deterrence and stipulates that an armed attack against any one of them would be regarded as an attack against all.
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Kyiv: Over 50% of Moscow's refining capacity taken out
The Defense Ministry said late Sunday that recent strikes on refineries in cities including Moscow, Yaroslavl, Ust-Luga, Perm, Saratov and Syzran had put 51% of Russia's oil refining capacity out of action. The claim could not be independently verified.
Mecca alliance agrees to activate collective deterrence measures to respond to attacks
A committee of the Mecca defence pact between Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan "reaffirmed the solidarity and unity of our countries in confronting the heinous attacks against the Kingdom and the holy sites."
'Great achievements already made': Swiss President Parmelin on India-EFTA trade pact's first year
The India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement has been effective since its implementation a year ago. Swiss President Guy Parmelin stated that strong interest from companies has been evident in various sectors. This agreement is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade and attract long-term investment. Additionally, Switzerland seeks to strengthen cooperation in business and technology during the President's current visit.
India, Switzerland sign migration pact, expand trade, investment and defence ties
India and Switzerland have signed a migration and mobility partnership pact and expanded market access for Indian exports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin discussed deepening cooperation in nuclear energy and defence. Both nations aim to boost bilateral trade and investment ties following the recent Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement. New opportunities will also emerge for Indian students and professionals in Switzerland through the agreements.
Trump names Jay Clayton as White House's AI czar. This is what he thinks about the technology
President Donald Trump has appointed Jay Clayton as the leader of the new Super Intelligence Force at the White House. The task force is intended to help the US maintain leadership in artificial intelligence. Other members include officials from various federal agencies, who will study AI risks and opportunities. The force will also recommend how the government should engage with stakeholders regarding the technology.
US military says latest strike on alleged drug-smuggling boat in the Caribbean kills 4
The U.S. military recently conducted an attack on a suspected drug smuggling boat in the Caribbean Sea. This strike resulted in the deaths of four individuals, contributing to an escalating military campaign against narcotics trafficking. Since September 2025, the U.S. has reportedly killed at least 235 people in similar operations targeting alleged traffickers. The Trump administration asserts this military action is essential for reducing drug-related fatalities in the United States.
Dulux paint maker AkzoNobel to sell Southeast Asian unit to Nippon Paint for over $1 bn
AkzoNobel is close to finalizing a deal with Nippon Paint for its Southeast Asian decorative paints business. This potential agreement is expected to surpass $1 billion and may be announced soon. The divestment would involve operations across several countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Nippon Paint has previously shown interest in acquiring the entire decorative paints division of AkzoNobel.
Turkey says Mecca pact committee to meet in Riyadh on October 5
A committee from the Mecca defence pact involving Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan will meet in Riyadh. Turkish officials attending include the Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and Chief of General Staff. The meeting will address recent regional developments and plans for the alliance's institutionalisation. Additionally, discussions will consider Iran's suggestion for political engagement with Yemen's Houthis. This strategic meeting aims to reinforce collaborative efforts to stabilize the Middle East.
Jaishankar says India-EU FTA will be a "real game changer" for ties
India and the European Union are working towards a Free Trade Agreement that aims to strengthen their economic ties. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted various sectors including technology, defense, space, and climate as key areas for cooperation. The agreement is expected to facilitate regulatory alignment and increase business comfort in both regions.
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.
North Korea test-fires ballistic missile as tensions grow over border mine blasts
North Korea fired a ballistic missile that flew over 700 kilometers into the sea. This launch followed heightened tensions due to land mine blasts injuring three South Korean soldiers. South Korea condemned the missile tests, calling them a violation of U.N. sanctions, while the U.S. stated there was no immediate threat. Kim Yo Jong labeled South Korea's demands for an apology as pathetic and reaffirmed North Korea's hostility.
Saudi Arabia plans assault on Houthis to break Red Sea chokehold
Saudi Arabia is preparing for an offensive against Houthi militants in Yemen, focusing on securing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The operation is expected to include coordinated attacks from multiple fronts alongside Yemeni ground forces. Over 100,000 Yemeni troops could potentially participate in the planned military action. U.S. intelligence support and military aid from other nations will assist the Saudi campaign in Yemen.
'May 9-like situation' to be dealt with decisive force, says Pakistan army's top brass
Pakistan military officials have indicated that any disturbances like those of May 9 will be addressed with decisive force. As supporters of Imran Khan prepare for a long march to Islamabad, political tensions are escalating. The federal government has increased security measures, including deploying additional police personnel and placing shipping containers on key roads. PTI leaders have made various demands regarding Imran Khan's health and the release of detained supporters.
Hindalco calls off AluChem acquisition amid prolonged closing delays
Hindalco Industries Ltd has decided to terminate its USD 125 million acquisition of AluChem Companies Inc. The cancellation follows extended delays in closing the transaction, affecting both parties involved. Hindalco maintains its strategy for expanding the speciality alumina business remains unchanged despite this setback. AluChem will continue operating independently, serving its customer base as it has for nearly five decades.
Palantir CEO Alex Karp quietly bought 37,000 acres in Sweden for $22 million; locals found out only after hunters got an unexpected email
In a surprising move, Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir Technologies, has acquired a substantial forested region in Härjedalen, Sweden, for 235 million kronor, about $22 million. Local hunters, caught off guard, learned their hunting leases were revoked. This acquisition highlights Palantir's controversial footprint in defense tech, as Karp intends to focus on land preservation and sustainable forestry initiatives, blending environmental efforts with corporate responsibility.
Who is Joey Porter Jr.? Steelers reportedly trade cornerback to Cowboys in exchange for sixth-round and second-round picks
Joey Porter Jr., a cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been repotrtedly traded to the Dallas Cowboys. The Steelers will receive a sixth-round pick in 2027 and a second-round pick in 2028. Porter struggled with contract negotiations and injuries, leading to the trade. He joins a Cowboys secondary that has faced challenges early in the season.
Commerce Minister Goyal meets USTR Greer on sidelines of G20 meet
Piyush Goyal met with Jamieson Greer in Milwaukee to advance discussions on a bilateral trade agreement. This meeting occurred during the G20 Trade Ministerial and follows a conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. Goyal expressed confidence that the trade pact will be finalized once competitive advantages are established. The negotiations are influenced by changes in the US tariff landscape affecting various Asian competitors.
US Navy sets its eyes on F/A-XX 6th Gen fighter as Boeing wins the award: here’s a look at the other similar jets in the making and which country is ahead; cost, specifications and features
Boeing’s F/A-XX will replace the US Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and operate alongside the F-35C. Here’s a look at its expected range, cost and design, and where China’s J-36, GCAP and FCAS stand in the sixth-generation fighter race.
As the last US troops exit Iraq, Kurdish fears rise and militias celebrate
The last US troops are scheduled to depart Iraq under a 2024 agreement between Baghdad and Washington. This withdrawal is celebrated by Iran-backed groups but raises concerns among others, particularly in the Kurdish region. The Kurdish government fears increased vulnerability after the removal of US air defense systems. Iran-aligned militias have celebrated the end of US military presence, claiming it signals full sovereignty for Iraq.
Iran awaits US response on Strait of Hormuz plan after Trump reportedly rejects deal
Iran awaited a US response to its proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt fighting across the Middle East, after the Wall Street Journal reported President Donald Trump rejected the plan. Tehran said the proposal could reopen the waterway within seven days and lead to broader talks, including on its nuclear programme.
Allies unite behind Saudi Arabia as Houthis step up attacks
Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan will hold an urgent, high-level meeting under a joint defence pact to discuss ways to support the kingdom amid attacks by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis, while Tehran sought to distance itself from the
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