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Neighborhood News Digest – 14 February 2023

Afghanistan
Afghanistan: Taliban forces raid IS hideout in Kabul – India Blooms

“The security forces attacked an important hideout of the IS in Kartai Naw locality of Police District 8 on Monday evening, killing several insurgents,” Mujahid said in his twitter account. Since the operation site is at a residential area, the operation was carried out slowly and carefully to protect the locals, the chief spokesman said. Click here to read…

Differences emerge in Taliban leadership as interior minister makes public criticism – Arab News

Major differences have emerged within the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan, experts said on Monday, after a senior official described the country’s situation as “intolerable” over the weekend. Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani is in the spotlight following a critical comment on the current situation in Afghanistan during a public event on Saturday. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Opposition Protests in Bangladesh Threaten Bilateral Relations with India – South Asian Voices

Large-scale protests have rocked Bangladesh’s major cities like Faridpur, Rajshahi, and Dhaka in recent months. Amid rising energy and fuel prices, Bangladeshis have mounted significant pressure on the current Awami-led government. National and international media outlets have attributed these protests to opposition forces led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami aiming to reassert their influence. Despite historic ties with the Awami League, the time is ripe for India to amend its approach to Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bangladesh bars Russian ships from its maritime territory after US sanctions – BD News

The Bangladesh government has imposed restrictions barring the entry of 69 Russian ships into its maritime waters in line with US and EU sanctions. This means that Russian vessels will not be able to bring in shipments of imports, stop for fuelling, anchor in the area, or even use sea routes. Click here to read…

India-Bangladesh Foreign Secretary level meeting to take place on Wednesday – India Blooms

India and Bangladesh are scheduled to hold Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) on Wednesday, which will review the ongoing cooperation between the two countries apart from the issues of mutual interests. Click here to read…

Greater energy cooperation will benefit both India and Bangladesh – The Daily Star

In the near future, Bangladesh needs to transition from conventional energy sources to ensure its energy security and long-term sustainability. Following the Ukraine crisis, energy security has become a major concern for developing and least-developed countries. In this context, cross-border energy cooperation and revitalizing the idea of the power corridor could perhaps help Bangladesh to mitigate its energy crisis. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Social Media Platforms Are A Way For Locals To Earn Money – The Watch Dog News

Bhutan Users are being drawn to social media sites like Tik Tok & YouTube due to their gaining popularity. These users are currently growing in recognition on a national and international scale. According to Bhutan Live, these platforms are providing Bhutanese citizens with new economic opportunities. Click here to read…

Bhutan’s Paro drafts by-law in its quest to become waste-free – DeviDiscourse

Bhutan’s Paro town’s district Waste Management Committee has drafted a by-law to achieve its target of becoming a waste-free district in the next few years, The Bhutan Live reported. Consultation and familiarization meetings on the draft by-law were held with the district’s local leaders, institutions, and regional offices, recently, according to The Bhutan Live. The by-law will also be put up in the upcoming Duzongkhag Tshogd for endorsement. Click here to read…

Maldives
Maldives NOC secretary general emphasises anti-doping education importance after WADA visit – Inside the Games

WADA’s Asia and Oceania office manager Kenny Lee Kyu Hwan and programme development manager of National and Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO) relations Cui Ying travelled to Malé for the South Asian RADO member country representative meeting. South Asian RADO manager Hussain Mohamed joined Lee and Cui on their visit to the MOC. Click here to read…

New Record: Highest-ever single-day arrivals with over 8,000 tourists – Edition.mv

The Maldives on Saturday recorded its highest-ever single-day arrival with over 8,000 tourists visiting the country. In January of this year, the daily average of arrivals was 5,566, and so far in February, it is 6,190. The total number of tourist arrivals from February 1–11 is 68,085, which is a 35.4 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022. Click here to read…

Myanmar
The civil war in Myanmar: No end in sight – Brookings

The second anniversary of the February 2021 coup d’état in Myanmar has just passed, and the abysmal state of armed conflict, insurgency, chaos, and anarchy has only been deteriorating. Despite the repeated calls by regional organizations like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and by the United Nations to stop the violence, protect human rights, and respect the democratic process, the Burmese military junta has demonstrated no appetite for political concessions or negotiation with the resistance movement.Click here to read…

Myanmar’s arrested environmental activism – East Asia Forum

In the two years since the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar’s natural environment has deteriorated as the embryonic legal and regulatory regime that was emerging during the decade of political and economic reforms has unravelled. Gold mining has significantly increased, particularly in Kachin and Shan States, causing extensive social and environmental problems. The military has issued new mining permits while informal or illegal mining has also proliferated, causing deforestation, erosion and flooding while also damaging fisheries by polluting waterways with toxic sediment. Click here to read…

Chevron Exits Myanmar After Finalizing Sale of Yadana Stake – The Diplomat

The U.S. oil major Chevron announced on Friday that it would finally cut its ties with military-ruled Myanmar, after agreeing to sell its assets in the country. According to a report by Reuters, the firm said it had agreed to sell for an undisclosed amount its 41.1 percent interest in the Yadana offshore gas field to a subsidiary of the Canadian company MTI. Click here to read…

Nepal
Former monarch joins campaign to reinstate Nepal as ‘Hindu State’ – Indian Express

In a symbolic but significant political move, former Nepal king Gyanendra Shah on Monday joined a public campaign that envisages restoration of Nepal’s earlier status of a “Hindu Kingdom”. The campaign was launched on a day the Nepal government led by Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ declared a public holiday to mark 23 years of the Maoist war. Click here to read…

Kwatra meets top Nepal leadership – Tribune India

Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra on Monday interacted with the entire top leadership of Nepal, including President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda whom he invited for an official visit to India, Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Paudyal and his counterpart Bharatraj Paudyal. Kawtra’s visit follows that of several high-level officials from the US State Department as both Foreign Offices recover from the political shock of incumbent PM and Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba having been deprived of the PM’s chair due to an alliance between the country’s two major communist parties. Click here to read…

Prachanda-Oli rift set to jolt Nepal again – Hans India

Never the best of allies, the growing rift between Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is sending shockwaves in the ruling communist-led seven party alliance. The Prachanda government is also challenged by smaller aspirational parties including the youth-oriented Rastriya Swantantra Party (RSP) and Madhesi parties. Besides the Nepali Congress which has the highest number of the seats in parliament is making incremental gains, putting it in pole position to play the kingmaker role, exploiting the rift in Nepal’s communist camp. Click here to read…

Pakistan
US, Pakistan talks to enhance defence ties – Dawn

Pakistan and the United States began their defence talks in Washington on Monday to enhance coordination on strategic issues and explore various options for ramping up bilateral military and security ties. The four-day talks, ending on Feb 16, is a second round of the Pakistan-US Mid-Level Defence Dialogue. The first round was held in Pakistan in January 2021. Chief of General Staff Lt Gen Mohammad Saeed is leading the inter-agency delegation that reached Washington on Sunday. Click here to read…

Pakistan orders embassies to NOT issue visas to Afghan nationals – First Post

Amid deteriorating ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Islamabad’s Foreign Office has ordered its embassies in European countries to not issue visas to Afghan citizens until further orders. This came after the alleged visa scandal of the issuance of Pakistani visas to 1,600 Afghan nationals on fake residential cards of Sweden, ARY News reported. Click here to read…

Pakistan set for tax hikes in return for massive IMF bailout – The Hindu

The dire outlook from economists and political analysts comes after the International Monetary Fund delayed the release of a crucial $1.1 billion portion of a 2019 deal worth $6 billion, on hold since December over Pakistan’s failure to meet the terms. The latest round of the talks between Pakistan and the IMF concluded on Friday with the Fund recommending steps including imposing new taxes. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka junks Prabhakaran is alive claim by Tamil Nadu leader – Deccan Herald

Tamil nationalist leader Pazha Nedumaran, in an attempt to keep the Sri Lankan Tamils issue boiling in Tamil Nadu and to remain relevant, on Monday claimed that Velupillai Prabhakaran, the founding chief of once-dreaded LTTE, was alive and that a “conducive atmosphere” prevails now for him to appear. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka opposition leader lambasts govt for tax policy, interest rates, utility tariff hike – Economy Next

Sri Lanka opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has criticised the cash-strapped government’s tax policy, cost-reflective utility tariffs and the Central Bank’s decision to maintain interest rates at their current level, proposing that stolen money be recovered to increase state revenue. Click here to read…

Indo-Sri Lankan relations since independence: a checkered history – News In Asia

India-Sri Lanka relations are undoubtedly at their best now, thanks to India’s timely and generous assistance to the financially-beleaguered southern neighbor. But in the past 75 years or more, bilateral relations have been troubled more often than not. Therefore, the million-dollar question now is: Will India’s help during the ongoing financial crisis stabilize the relationship and put it on a growth trajectory for a change? Click here to read…

Science and Technology (S&T) Digest, 16-31 January 2023, Issue 6

In this Issue

I. Defence and Security
  1. Indian Navy Commissioned the Fifth Kalvari Class Submarine Vagir
  2. Indian Army Displayed ‘Made In India’ Weapons
  3. India to Launch the Long-Delayed Super Sukhoi Programme
II. STI in Space Sector
  1. NID and ISRO Sign MoU for Human Spaceflight Programme
  2. ISRO’s Rocket SSLV Set for Launch
  3. India’s Rocket LVM3 to be launched in early March 2023
  4. The Kerala Space Park Project
III. Emerging Technologies and Applications
  1. India Unveils World’s First Intranasal COVID19 Vaccine
  2. India Developed Four Indigenous Vaccines in Two Years
  3. Creating a Deeptech Health Care R&D and Supply Chain Ecosystem
  4. Quantum Computing in India
  5. Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System Launched
  6. Technology for Biosensing System Launched
  7. Framework for Catalyzing India’s Techade
  8. TRAI Issued the Consultation Paper on Digital Technologies and Services
  9. Government Invites Comments on Amendment Proposed to ‘IT Rules’
  10. India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 Inaugurated in Bhopal
  11. Use of Technology and Elections Integrity
  12. Training Students in the Areas of Emerging Technologies
  13. Empowering Young Scientists of India
IV. International Cooperation
  1. India-Egypt Defence and S&T Cooperation
  2. India-US held the Inaugural iCET Dialogue
  3. India-US Space Cooperation
  4. India-France Defence Tech Cooperation
  5. G20-Startup20 Engagement Group Set To Meet in Hyderabad
  6. First G-20 International Financial Architecture Working Group Inaugurated
V. Regional and Global Trends
  1. NASA Tests New Propulsion System for Deep Space Missions
  2. China Launches Classified Remote Sensing and Tech Test Satellites
  3. China to Launch 60 Space Missions and Over 200 Spacecraft in 2023
  4. China’s Potential Claim to Resource-Rich Regions of the Moon
  5. US Sanctions Chinese Firm for Sending Satellite Imagery to Russia’s Wagner Group
I. DEFENCE AND SECURITY
Indian Navy Commissioned the Fifth Kalvari Class Submarine Vagir

The Indian Navy’s fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir was commissioned into the Indian Navy today, 23 January 2023 at the Naval Dockyard Mumbai in the presence of Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, the Chief Guest for the ceremony. Six Scorpene Class submarines are being built in India by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai, under collaboration with M/s Naval Group, France. INS Vagir would form part of the Western Naval Command’s Submarine fleet and would be another potent part of the Command’s arsenal. The submarine has advanced stealth features and long range guided torpedoes as well as anti-ship missiles.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Army Displayed ‘Made In India’ Weapons

Ahead of Republic Day 2023, the Indian Army displayed ‘Made In India’ weapons including Akash air defence missiles and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles atthe India Gate.The weapons displayed included K-9 Vajra howitzers, MBT Arjun, Nag anti-tank guided missiles, BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, Akash air defence missiles and the Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles.

For more information: Click here to read…

India to Launch the Long-Delayed Super Sukhoi Programme

As per media reports, India is about to launch the long-delayed Super Sukhoi programme. Four billion USD has already been requested by the Indian Ministry of Defence. 150 fighters out of 260 operationally ready Su-30MKI will go through complete modernization. The Super Sukhoi programme was supposed to start nearly two years ago. In 2022, Russian troops invaded Ukraine and this delayed the plans of the Indian Air Command. However, the time has come for a change, and seeing the threat from China, India is ready to invest in the backbone of its Air Force. The modernization will mainly affect the replacement of electronics, sensors, and weapons. Realistically, if the programme is completed on time, India will have a better Su-30 than the original manufacturer – the USSR/Russia.

For more information: Click here to read…

II. STI IN SPACE SECTOR
NID and ISRO Sign MoU for Human Spaceflight Programme

The National Institute of Design (NID) officials and Human Spaceflight Centre (HSFC) of ISRO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at NID Ahmedabad on 20 January 2023 for the ‘Design of System and Products for Indian Human Spaceflight Programme’. NID director Praveen Nahar, and HSFC director, Dr R Umamaheshwaran, signed the MoU in the presence of officials from both institutions. As per media reports, the collaboration would cover fields ranging from spacesuits to user consoles. “So far, only a few countries like Russia and the US have advanced in space design as a discipline.”
For more information: Click here to read…

ISRO’s Rocket SSLV Set for Launch

ISRO’s latest rocket, Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), is all set for launch with the space agency aiming for carrying three payloads. While the main payload will be an Earth observation satellite – the EOS-7 – the mission is also expected to launch Janus-1 from US firm Antaris and a third payload from a domestic player. The Earth observation satellite SSLV is scheduled to carry will be in the small satellite class with its mass not exceeding 200kg, while the other two satellites sharing the ride will be smaller.
For more information: Click here to read…

India’s Rocket LVM3 to be launched in early March 2023

India’s heaviest rocket LVM3 (also known as GSLV Mk3) is likely to take to the skies in early March 2023, as part of its second commercial launch. This launch is part of a commercial deal between UK-based satellite broadband firm One Web and ISRO’s commercial arm New Space India Limited (NSIL). The deal is worth approximately USD 122.65 million (INR 1,000 crore), and involves the launch of 72 satellites in two batches of 36 each, on board the LVM3 rocket. While the first LVM3/One Web launch was successfully completed on 23rd October 2022, the second launch is slated for March 2023.
For more information: Click here to read…

The Kerala Space Park Project

The Kerala Space Park project opens up immense opportunities for the State to establish a thriving space industry, Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal said, while inaugurating a seminar ‘Sustainability in Space Science and Technology – Challenges and Possibilities,’ organised by the ISRO Staff Association as part of its golden jubilee celebrations. Space science is highly relevant at a time when debates centre on climate change and global warming and the need to protect the planet, he said.
For more information: Click here to read…

III. EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLICATIONS
India Unveils World’s First Intranasal COVID19 Vaccine

On 26 January 2023, the Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the iNNCOVACC COVID19 vaccine in the presence of Minister of Science and Technology, DrJitendra Singh. iNNCOVACC is the world’s first intranasal COVID19 vaccine to receive approval for the primary 2-dose schedule, and as a heterologous booster dose. It is developed by Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL) in collaboration with Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance (BIRAC), a PSU under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology.
For more information: Click here to read…

India Developed Four Indigenous Vaccines in Two Years

India has developed four indigenous Vaccines in last two years. The four vaccines are- ZyCoV-D- World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed DNA Vaccine, CORBEVAXTM-India’s first protein subunit vaccine, GEMCOVAC™-19 – World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed mRNA vaccine and iNCOVACC-World’s 1st and India’s indigenously developed intranasal COVID-19 Vaccine. The DBT in Ministry of S&T has through “Mission COVID Suraksha”, delivered four vaccines, augmented the manufacturing of Covaxin, and created necessary infrastructure for smooth development of future vaccines, so that the country is pandemic ready.
For more information: Click here to read…

Creating a Deeptech Health Care R&D and Supply Chain Ecosystem

SAMEER, India’s premier R&D Institute of Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) signed a MoU with Siemens Healthineers in Bengaluru on 27 January that will contribute towards the development of new, improved and innovative technologies for advancing healthcare and diagnostic access in India. Digital India Programme which was launched in 2015 paved way for India to move from being a consumer of technology to a producer of technology, devices, and products. “The MoU today is a significant step in this direction.”
For more information: Click here to read…

Quantum Computing in India

The Quantum Computing will be at the core of India’s growth and expansion in India’s Techade. The MeitY Chandrasekhar said that “It is PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to create a India centric Quantum tech ecosystem with partners and players around the world. We are working together to build an ecosystem of innovation, along with startups, R&D laboratories, higher education institutions.” The Minister said that “We need to really work together to build a complete quantum ecosystem of innovation, startups, research labs, higher academic institutions, domestic companies, foreign companies, foreign academics for creating an India centric Quantum Ecosystem that works very well with other partners and players around the world”.
For more information: Click here to read…

Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System Launched

The Secretary, MeitY, Alkesh Kumar Sharma has launched the Technology for Air Quality Monitoring System (AI-AQMS v1.0) developed under MeitY supported projects, on 17 January 2023. The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Kolkata in collaboration with TeXMIN, ISM, Dhanbad under the ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs)’ has developed a outdoor air quality monitoring station to monitor environmental pollutants which includes parameters like PM 1.0, PM 2.5, PM 10.0, SO2, NO2, CO, O2, ambient temperature, relative humidity etc., for continuous air quality analysis of the environment.
For more information: Click here to read…

Technology for Biosensing System Launched

The Secretary, MeitY, Alkesh Kumar Sharma has launched the Technology for Biosensing system for the detection of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in aquatic ecosystems (MEAN) developed under MeitY supported projects, on 17 January 2023. The C-DAC, Kolkata in collaboration with ICAR-CIFRI, Baraackpore under the ‘National programme on Electronics and ICT applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs)’ has developed a biosensing system for detection of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC) in aquatic ecosystems, for qualitative and quantitate analysis of EDC content in water bodies.
For more information: Click here to read…

Framework for Catalyzing India’s Techade

The Indian Government will put in place a less prescriptive and more principle-based comprehensive legal framework for catalyzing India’s Techade and to build a trillion-dollar economy, the Meity Rajeev Chandrasekhar said in Bengaluru on 19 January 2023. The Minister said that “The Government is working on a comprehensive legal framework that will include legislations like the proposed Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, the National Data Governance Framework, the amended IT rules etc. and the upcoming Digital India Act — which will be less prescriptive and more principle-based-to enable and support a vibrant startup and innovation ecosystem”.
For more information: Click here to read…

TRAI Issued the Consultation Paper on Digital Technologies and Services

On 30 January 2023, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued the Consultation Paper on “Regulating Converged Digital Technologies and Services –Enabling Convergence of Carriage of Broadcasting and Telecommunication services”. Over the period of time, various technological developments in digital markets have resulted in the convergence of devices, services, and networks. The convergence of digital and physical products through the use of Machine to Machine (M2M), Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technologies is paving the way for Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0).
For more information: Click here to read…

Government Invites Comments on Amendment Proposed to ‘IT Rules’

In pursuance of the Government’s commitment to ensure an Open, Safe and Trusted and Accountable Internet for citizens (Digital Nagriks), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has invited comments from stakeholders and general public on amendment proposed to rule 3(1)(b)(v) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules”) with respect to obligations of social media and other intermediaries regarding sharing of information which is patently false and untrue or misleading in nature.
For more information: Click here to read…

India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 Inaugurated in Bhopal

The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Minister for Science & Technology, DrJitendra Singh jointly inaugurated India International Science Festival, IISF-2022 in Bhopal on 21 January with the theme, “Marching towards AmritKaal with Science Technology and Innovation”. In his address Chief Minister Chouhan said that 2600 Start-ups came up in Madhya Pradesh alone in one year and it is not only confined to city of Indore but even tier-2 and tier-3 cities are dotted with successful start-ups. He called upon the students and entrepreneurs from Madhya Pradesh to develop a zeal for innovations. For more information: Click here to read…

Use of Technology and Elections Integrity

Chief Election Commissioner of India Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioner’s Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel inaugurated a two day international conference on the theme ‘Use of Technology & Elections Integrity’. The conference which is second in a series of three conferences to be organized by Election Commission of India is hosted at New Delhi under Cohort on Election Integrity led by ECI. Sixteen countries including Heads/Dy Heads of nine EMBs or Election Authorities are participating.
For more information: Click here to read…

Training Students in the Areas of Emerging Technologies

Atal Innovation Mission – NITI Aayog, Central Board of Secondary Education -Ministry of Education, and Intel India have collaborated to bring a change in the education sector by embedding future skills such as AI and Tinkering in the formal curriculum. The larger aim is to align the NEP 2020’s guidance to increase the pace of tech integration for youth, the need to bridge the future skills gap in the country, and optimize the current infrastructure (ATLs, etc.) towards making India AI-ready. Together, they launched the AIoT Integration in School Curriculum in September 2022 and initiated a pilot.
For more information: Click here to read…

Empowering Young Scientists of India

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the GoI, IIT (BHU), Varanasi and INYAS jointly organised the “National Brainstorming Session on Empowering Young Scientists of India” on 24th and 25th January 2023 to assimilate ideas for enhancing the avenues of empowering young scientists of India in the current research ecosystem. The two-day brainstorming session was held with the aim of collating inputs on a new policy document to nurture and empower the next generation of young scientists and researchers (≤45 years) that would translate into excellence in scientific and technological leadership for furthering the research and development in the country.
For more information: Click here to read…

IV. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
India-Egypt Defence and S&T Cooperation

President of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited India from 24-27 January 2023 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day on 26 January. During the visit, India and Egypt “agreed to further enhance and deepen defence cooperation in all fields, especially by exchanging technology between defence industries, widening the footprint of military exercises, and exchanging best practices. They emphasized the need for co-production in the defence sector and to discuss specific proposals in the framework of the JDC.” They also noted “their longstanding science and technology cooperation with satisfaction”. They agreed that the two countries “could work together in areas of emerging technologies through sharing best practices and undertaking joint research in areas of mutual interest such as nano-technology, bio-technology and renewable energy”.
For more information:
Click here to read…

India-US held the Inaugural iCET Dialogue

India and the US held the inaugural Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) dialogue in Washington DC on 31 January 2023 which was co-led by the two National Security Advisors, NSA AjitDoval and NSA Jake Sullivan. They were joined by senior government officials, leading industry representatives and academia. As per the White House fact sheet, the two sides have identified six areas of planned cooperation which would include Strengthening innovation ecosystems; Defence innovation and technology cooperation; Resilient semiconductor supply chains; Space; STEM talent; and, Next generation telecommunications.
For more information: Click here to read…

India-US Space Cooperation

The officials from India and the US participated in the eighth meeting of the US-India Civil Space Joint Working Group (CSJWG) in Washington DC from 30-31 January 2023. As per the State Department press release, “the CSJWG discussions covered collaboration in earth and space science as well as human space exploration, global navigation satellite systems, spaceflight safety and space situational awareness, and policies for commercial space”. The two sides also “considered implementation of guidelines and best practices developed by the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Use of Outer Space (COPUOS) to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.”
For more information: Click here to read…

India-France Defence Tech Cooperation

In a major boost to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Fuel Cell-based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system of DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) will soon be fitted onboard INS Kalvari. An agreement was signed between senior officials of NMRL and Naval Group France in Mumbai on 23 January2023 to extend cooperation to enter into the detailed design phase for integration of indigenous AIP in the Kalvari class submarines. As part of the agreement, Naval Group France will certify the AIP design for integration in the submarines. The AIP has a force multiplier effect on lethality of a diesel electric submarine as it enhances the submerged endurance by several folds.
For more information: Click here to read…

G20-Startup20 Engagement Group Set To Meet in Hyderabad

The G-20 Startup20 Engagement Group will hold its inception meeting in Hyderabad, featuring delegates from G20 nations and nine special invitees from observer countries, representatives from multilateral organizations as well as the Indian startup ecosystem. The group formed under G20 after India assumed presidency will convene from 28-29 January anticipating a productive development of policy recommendations on entrepreneurship and innovation priorities of and across G20 countries for the years ahead. The meeting will create a global narrative for supporting startups and fostering synergies between startups, corporates, investors, innovation agencies, and other key ecosystem stakeholders.
For more information: Click here to read…

First G-20 International Financial Architecture Working Group Inaugurated

The two-day meeting of the first International Financial Architecture Working Group of G-20, under the chairmanship of India, was inaugurated in Chandigarh on 30 January 2023. On this occasion, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar said that India is developing rapidly with science and innovation, both of them are deeply connected with the future of India. We have leveraged technology to create the digital public infrastructure. We have been a significant contributor to financial inclusion in global healthcare and the move to sustainable energy while people-centric development is the basis of our national strategy. This is the same philosophy that the theme of our G-20 Presidency, – ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’, also underlines.
For more information: Click here to read…

V. REGIONAL AND GLOBAL TRENDS
NASA Tests New Propulsion System for Deep Space Missions

Propulsion development engineers at NASA have developed and tested the agency’s first full-scale rotating detonation rocket engine, or RDRE. It is an advanced rocket engine design that could revolutionise how future rocket propulsion systems are built, according to the space agency. The RDRE is different from conventional rocket engine designs and generates thrust using a “supersonic combustion phenomenon” known as detonation. The design allows the engine to generate more power while using less fuel than propulsion systems that are currently being used. According to NASA, it has the potential to power both human landers and interplanetary vehicles going to deep space destinations like the Moon and Mars.
For more information: Click here to read…

China Launches Classified Remote Sensing and Tech Test Satellites

China launched three new satellites in January 2023, providing no details of the work they will do in orbit. A Long March 2D rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert at 2:00 a.m. EST (0700 GMT, or 3:00 p.m. local time) on 13 January 2023, sending three classified satellites into orbit. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), which produced both the rocket and satellites, announcedthe successful launch of the Yaogan 37 and Shiyan 22A and 22B satellites within an hour of liftoff. No details about the three satellites were provided.
For more information: Click here to read…

China to Launch 60 Space Missions and Over 200 Spacecraft in 2023

After conducting over 50 launches in 2022, China has bigger and bolder plans for 2023. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) has said that Beijing is planning to launch 60 space missions and over 200 spacecraft this year. In a blue paper, unveiled recently, China has revealed that the country’s space science and technology activities will see a significant boost in 2023 including big-ticket missions like Tianzhou-6 cargo craft, the Shenzhou-16, and the Shenzhou-17 flight missions to further solidify its Tiangong space station activities. Apart from launching these missions, the corporation will also ensure that the construction of a new-generation commercial remote-sensing satellite system.
For more information: Click here to read…

China’s Potential Claim to Resource-Rich Regions of the Moon

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has warned that China could claim resource-rich regions of the moon as its own as the country intends to gain economic benefits through space exploration, the Indo-Pacific Center for Strategic Communications (IPCSC) reported. According to the IPCSC report, China’s efforts to use its space programme to transform itself into a military, economic, and technological power will soon reshape the world order. China in 2020, announced its plans to establish an economic zone with an output value of USD 10 trillion. China in 2022 built a space station orbiting the Earth and performed several missions around the moon to extract samples. Beijing also plans to build an autonomous lunar research station near the moon’s South Pole, which is expected to begin in 2025.
For more information: Click here to read…

US Sanctions Chinese Firm for Sending Satellite Imagery to Russia’s Wagner Group

On 26 January 2023, the United States Treasury Department and the State Department imposed sanctions on a Chinese company for sending satellite imagery orders from locations in Ukraine to Russia’s Wagner Group, according to the statement released by the US Department of the Treasury. US Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said that “As sanctions and export controls on Russia from our international coalition continue to bite, the Kremlin is desperately searching for arms and support, including through the brutal Wagner Group, to continue its unjust war against Ukraine.”
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West Asia Roundup-January 2023

Abstract: 2023 began with greater tensions in the region. Israel -Palestine conflict and high levels of violence and protests in Israel against the efforts of Netanyahu’s ultra-right government to compromise the powers of the Judiciary as well as the worsening plight and concerns of the Palestinians. Blinken visits Egypt, Jordan, Israel and Palestine and supports two state solution amidst spirally violence urging both sides to calm down. While Blinken’s visit did little to actually defuse or deescalate the violent situation he asked his ME office Barbara leaf and Hady Amr Special Envoy for Palestine to stay back and to help defuse the situation. He reiterated that US will oppose any efforts to undermine the two state solution as well as new settlements, outposts or demolition of Palestinian homes. Even Netanyahu was mainly concerned with Iran and his ultra rightist partner Ben Gvir vowed to continue with demolishing Palestinian homes and distribute arms among Israelis to defend themselves. Another one Orit Strock Minister was not happy with Blinken’s comments on the government’s plans to dilute the judiciary.

The coalition of nationalist parties in Jordan strongly criticised a statement by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry which “condemned” the shooting of seven Israeli settlers ‘in an illegal settlement’ in occupied East Jerusalem. UAE and several other countries also condemned the response to these attacks led to IDF killing 10 Palestinians in Jenin refugee camp.

PM Netanyahu also visited Jordan to meet King Abdullah and to defuse the ensuing crisis pertaining to Al Aqsa Mosque for which King Abdullah remains a custodian. Israeli National Security Minister, much against the advice of his colleagues, entered Al Aqsa flaring up tensions.

US and Israel also conducted the largest ever exercise in view of threats being perceived from Iran. Head of CIA Mark Burns also visited just before the targeted drone attacks on military facilities in Iran and Tehran accused Tel Aviv who maintained a stoic silence as always while vowing that Islamic Republic cannot be allowed to have the nuclear weapons. “Such actions cannot impact the determination and intent of our experts for peaceful nuclear progress,” insisted Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. He called the attack a “cowardly strike.”

Meanwhile Qatar FM also tried to revive the almost abandoned JCPOA apparently carrying some message from the Americans. Iranian confrontation both domestically with ongoing anti hijab female protesters and the West became further accentuated with its close partnership and military deals in drones and SU35 with Russia.

Iran’s former Deputy Defene Minister, Alireza Akbari, was executed days after being sentenced to death on charges of spying for Britain

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for holding meetings between Ankara, Russia, Syria and Iran with the aim of achieving stability in northern Syria. Erdogan said Ankara’s relations with Russia are based on mutual respect and his relationship with President Vladimir Putin is based on honesty. Turkish president added that while his country has not been able to obtain the result it desires regarding developments in northern Syria, it is calling for holding tripartite meetings between Turkiye, Russia and Syria.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev, at the Zugulba Presidential Palace in Baku to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. Both presidents oversaw the signing of a number of joint memoranda of understanding relating to various fields including tourism, culture and water resources in addition to agreements between the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Azerbaijani Ministry of Economy.

Due to an attack on its embassy Baku had withdrawn its mission staff from Tehran. President Ebrahim Raisi during a telephone conversation with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev expressed his condolences after the attack. “The governments of Iran and Azerbaijan will not allow the relations between them to be influenced by the insinuations of the ill-wishers of the two nations”. On the other hand a statement issued by Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry said that a “recent anti-Azerbaijani campaign against our country in Iran has encouraged such attacks against our diplomatic mission.”

Calls are growing for Tunisian President Kais Saied to step down in the wake of another very low turnout in the legislative election. The figure has been put at 11 per cent, according to some media reports. Just 8.8 per cent of eligible voters turned out in the first leg of the election in December. But Kais Saied remains unperturbed.

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed visited Pakistan (January 26-27) as the country suffered its worst economic crisis mainly to assure them of some support and in response to several visits from Pakistani leadership to the Emirates. Earlier bilateral ties were discussed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s interaction with the UAE leadership when he paid an official visit to the Emirates at the invitation of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on January 12-13.

Tearing and burning of Quran in Sweden led to condemnation by the Muslim world. Turkey even cancelled the visit of Swedish Defence Minister stating that “We regretfully witnessed that no measures were taken as a result of these vile and heinous acts against Turkiye [including the recent acts of PKK leaders there]. Therefore, at this point, the visit of Swedish Defence Minister Jonson to Turkiye on January 27 has become meaningless. “So, we cancelled the visit,” announced Turkish National Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.

Saudi Arabia and Morocco signed a CT agreement on security and intelligence cooperation.

Britain and Saudi Arabia have reached an agreement to strengthen cooperation on diversifying sources of critical minerals, including graphite and lithium, the British government said in a statement. This came during the British Business Secretary, Grant Shapps’s visit to Riyadh for the Future Metals forum.

According to some reports, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, ordered that that Saudi Arabia’s investments in Pakistan be reviewed so that they could be increased to $10 billion. Earlier the new Army Chief of Pakistan visited Saudi Arabia and called on MBS while requesting more assistance to an embattled Pakistan.

The Saudi government welcomed the launch of the final stage of the political process in Sudan. King Salman bin Abdulaziz underscored Riyadh’s continued support to Sudan and international partners in the Quartet and Friends of Sudan Group to achieve the country’s stability and prosperity.

President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of South Korea visited UAE. During the visit, the Korean President conferred with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss the friendly ties between the two countries and the means to further develop bilateral cooperation in light of the strategic partnership that binds the two countries together.

India

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi was the Chief Guest on 74th Republic Day of India which is a distinct honour. It was his third visit. During the visit the relationship was upgraded to Strategic Partnership and several agreements were signed. He had close interactions with PM Modi and President of India among others. Egypt is also invited as a special guest during India’s G20 presidency. India and Egypt are celebrating 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations this year.

MOS (EA) shri V Muraleedharan visited UAE and conferred with several Ministers and also raised issues pertaining to the welfare of Indian expatriates there.

Anthony Blinken’s Tour to Egypt, Israel and West Bank

The US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken during the first leg of his regional tour visited Cairo on 29 January and met with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. Both leaders discussed about enhancing the strategic partnership and promoting peace and security including support for elections in Libya and ongoing Sudanese led political process. Egypt continues to play a central role in US’ strategic calculations. Blinken also mentioned that the US will continue to encourage Cairo to take action on human rights. Notably, CIA Director William Burns after his trip to Ukraine and Libya visited Egypt on 24 January and met with the President El-Sisi and head of General Intelligence Service, Abbas Kamel and talked about efforts to boost security and intelligence cooperation. Burns emphasized on the role of bilateral cooperation to promote stability in the region.

Following the Egypt trip, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israel and the West Bank. He called for de-escalation between Israelis and Palestinians while reiterating the US’ ironclad commitment to the Jewish state and its security. Blinken during the news conference stated that the US is committed to Israel’s full integration with the region by pushing for normalization efforts with Arab states. During the press statement, he mentioned about the US support for two states solution which is essential for Israel’s long term security. Blinken also met with Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas and mentioned that Israeli policies especially settlement expansion and home demolitions as detrimental to the two state solution. Blinken’s visit did not lead to any breakthrough in subsiding the tensions between Israelis and Palestinians mentioning that it was “fundamentally up to them” to end the ongoing violence.

Israel in January witnessed large scale protest to oppose the political changes initiated by the right-wing government. The protesters in Tel Aviv gathered in large numbers throughout the month chanting slogans such as “No to dictatorship” and “Democracy”. The government has proposed changes under which the Knesset could pass legislation through simple majority even if it violates the Basic Law. It would lead to weakening the judiciary. The Netanyahu government has accused the Supreme Court of excessive interference in political decisions. Besides the changes in Supreme Court, the government has hinted amendments in laws allowing unlimited detention for immigrants and asylum seekers; twisting anti-discrimination laws permitting right to refuse service based on religious beliefs affecting equal rights of LGBTQ community and minority groups. The government also wants changes in election laws that would restrict political participation for individuals expressing criticism towards Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. The changes in election laws in directed to shrink the political space for Arab parties that uphold a more sympathetic attitude towards the Palestinians.

Israel-Palestine Conflict

The month of January was highly violent in Israel and the occupied territories leading to number of deaths of Palestinians and Israelis. Israeli forces killed two Palestinians including a minor on 25 January in East Jerusalem and West Bank during raids. Israel since March 2021 has carried out frequent raids under Operation Break the Wave causing fatal clashes. Israeli forces during these raids have killed bystanders as well as fighters in targeted assassinations and armed clashes.

Israeli forces raided a refugee camp in Jenin on 26 January and killed 10 Palestinians. The killing by Israeli forces led to rocket attacks by Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) based in Gaza. Israel retaliated by carrying out air attacks on several locations in Gaza. Hamas in its statement noted that the group will continue to carry out “duty” to protect Palestinians and their sanctities. A day after the deaths of Palestinians in Jenin, a gunman on 27 January stormed inside a synagogue in a Jewish settlement in East Jerusalem killing seven people. Benjamin Netanyahu government in response to the recent violence announced plans to provide easier access for Israeli citizens to procure firearms. The move is seen as “collective punishment” and it is likely to increase the level of violence by allowing Israeli civilians to kill Palestinians with impunity.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir on 3 January entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex ignoring warnings from Israeli politicians. The PA called it as deliberate provocation to change the status quo at the mosque complex. Netanyahu on 24 January visited Amman and met with Jordanian King Abdullah in midst of diplomatic tensions over the Al Aqsa Mosque. Earlier on 17 January, Jordanian Ambassador to Israel, Ghassan Majali was stopped from entering the mosque. King Abdullah during the meeting with Netanyahu stressed the importance of respecting the historical and legal status quo in Al Aqsa Mosque.

Pakistan-UAE Bilateral Visits

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the UAE on 12 January. He received warm welcome from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both sides reviewed a number of regional and international issues. The two leaders signed three agreements related to diplomatic academy training, combating human trafficking and state news agency cooperation. The UAE assured support for development and stability in Pakistan and offered US$ 1 billion loan and also agreed to roll over an existing loan worth US$ 2 billion. Both states agreed to promote bilateral economic and trade ties and enable investment integration opportunities. The UAE President on 25 January paid a brief visit to Rahim Yar Khan City for in-depth discussions on economy, trade, development and issues related to the diaspora.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Visit to Sudan

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited Sudan on 26 January. Prime Minister Ahmed met with Sudanese military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to discuss on regional issues. The relations between Ethiopia and Sudan have been tense due to border dispute and refugee crisis following the two year conflict in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region. Both states are keen to embolden and promote bilateral relations. Sudan also assured support for Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In 2020, Ethiopia’s decision to start filling the dam’s reservoir without prior agreement with downstream states was heavily criticized by Sudan and Egypt. The tensions between both states also escalated following the conflict between Ethiopia’s federal government and Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) triggering a humanitarian crisis and flow of refugees to Sudan. Both sides also differ over Al-Fashaqa, a fertile border strip cultivated by Ethiopian farmers but claimed by Sudan. Sudan in June 2021 recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia to protest about killing of Sudanese soldiers.

Attack on Azerbaijan’s Embassy in Iran

An attack inside Azerbaijan’s embassy in Tehran on 27 January led to death of one security guard and two injuries prompting Baku to evacuate its diplomatic staff. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev called the assault on the embassy as a “terrorist act” and requested swift investigation. Iran’s relations with Azerbaijan have witnessed tension for months. Azerbaijani government in a strongly worded statement mentioned that recent “anti-Azerbaijan campaign” encouraged the gun incident and accused Iranian authorities of ignoring Baku’s appeal to increase security at the embassy. Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the attack and assured thorough investigation. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has tried to calm the situation and mentioned that bilateral relations should not be affected after the attack. Top officials in Tehran has dismissed the attack as a “terrorist act” and speculated that it could be driven by “personal issues”.

Drone Strike at Military Facility in Iran

On 28 January, military facility in Isfahan suffered minor damage from drone strikes. Iranian Defence Ministry stated that three drones were launched out of which one was destroyed by air defence systems and two were incepted by “defence traps” causing minor damage to one building. Reportedly, the attack was conducted by Israel to disrupt missile production. Iranian authorities did not clarify about the activities at the site calling it a workshop. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian called it a “cowardly” attack aimed at destabilizing the state.

Gas Deal between Italy and Libya

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during her visit to Tripoli on 28 January oversaw US$ 8 billion gas production deal between Eni and National Oil Corporation (NOC) aimed at increasing gas output for the Libyan domestic market and exports through the development of two offshore gas fields. According to the deal, the output will begin in 2016 producing 21 million cubic meters per day. Eni Chief Executive Claudio Descalzi has hoped that the agreement will facilitate crucial investments in Libya’s energy sector contributing to local development and job creation while allowing Eni to play a leading role in Libya’s energy market.

Prime Minister Meloni met with Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah, head of the internationally recognized Government of National Unity (GNU) and the discussion focussed on migration across the Mediterranean Sea. In the background of the Russia-Ukraine war, European states since last year have sought to diversify its energy imports. Italy signed energy cooperation with Algeria in 2022.

Turkey’s Diplomatic Row with Sweden and Denmark

Turkey’s diplomatic row with Sweden and Denmark has escalated after reports of Quran burning incidents in Stockholm on 21 January and Copenhagen on 27 January, in front of the Turkish embassy by a far-right activist, Rasmus Paludan. Turkey summoned the envoys of the two European states and expressed strong condemnation for providing permission that constitutes a hate crime. Ankara’s diplomatic relations with Stockholm has remained tense due to its opposition to Stockholm’s entry in North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Sweden and Finland fearing aggression from Russia has expressed their intention to join NATO. The accession process however requires the approval of all NATO members. Turkey has hinted that its consent is conditional upon Sweden as well as Finland’s efforts to crack down on Kurdish armed groups, activists and other groups. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after the Quran burning warned Sweden not to expect support for its NATO bid.

Kuwaiti Cabinet Resigns

Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf al-Sabah submitted his resignation to the Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah on 24 January after dispute with parliament. During the September 2022 parliamentary election, the opposition figures increased their share leading to standoff with the government. The new government formed in October 2022 collapsed only after two months. The government and the parliament reached an impasse over a debt relief bill allowing the state to buy Kuwaiti citizen’s personal loans. The tussle between the executive and the legislature has impeded reforms and affected investments in the Gulf state.

Africa Now – Weekly Newsletter (Week 7, 2023)

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

The Promise and Peril of Africa in 2023

As the year 2022 ended, here is a brief recap of what happened in Africa over the past year. Most African countries were still battling to recover from the pandemic when the year began. Click here to read…

The Papal Theory of Underdevelopment

Pope Francis’ diagnosis of the causes of African underdevelopment is simplistic, condescending, and ahistorical. Click here to read…

NEWS

Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso seek re-entry to regional blocs

Foreign ministers from the three countries say ECOWAS sanctions ‘affect populations already battered by insecurity and political instability’. Click here to read…

Tigray set to restart banking services after Ethiopia sends $90m

The Ethiopian government said on Saturday it was sending about $90 million to the Tigrayan capital to help restart banking services in the country. Click here to read…

Eritrean president sidesteps questions about troops in Ethiopia

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki on Thursday sidestepped questions about whether his country’s troops remain in neighbouring Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Click here to read…

Kenyatta backs complete regional force deployment into DR Congo

Former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday asked countries in the East African Community to fully deploy troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Click here to read…

Sudan seeks lift of African Union’s membership suspension

Sudan has engaged in efforts with the African Union to end the suspension of its membership following the coup d’état that overthrew a civilian-led transitional government in October 2021. Click here to read…

Russia’s Lavrov backs Sudan bid to lift UN sanctions

Russia’s top diplomat Sergei Lavrov held talks in Khartoum Thursday with Sudanese officials, pledging support for their call to lift long-standing UN sanctions on the African nation. Click here to read…

Uganda says it will not renew mandate of UN human rights office

Uganda has said it will not renew the mandate of the United Nations human rights office in the East African country, citing the development of its own sufficient capacity to monitor rights compliance. Click here to read…

South Africa declares national disaster over blackouts

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a state of disaster on Thursday to combat severe electricity shortages that have crippled the country’s economy. Click here to read…

Nigeria’s naira crisis: Supreme Court suspends banknote deadline

Nigeria’s Supreme Court has temporarily suspended Friday’s deadline to stop using old banknotes, which had caused a cash crisis in the country. Click here to read…

African energy chamber endorses the 2023 Namibia international energy conference

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) recently endorsed this year’s edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference, slated for 25 to 27 April in Windhoek. Click here to read…

French-Moroccan diplomatic ties in turmoil: Ambassador’s mission comes to an end amid crisis

The mission of Morocco’s ambassador to France has ended without a successor being appointed, in a climate of diplomatic crisis between Rabat and Paris. Click here to read…

Algeria outraged by wanted protester’s French escape

Amira Bouraoui, a key leader of 2019 mass protests that brought down Algeria’s president, has escaped to France, sparking a diplomatic row. Click here to read…

Sudan: All roads lead to Khartoum as Russia, Israel and West vie in game of thrones

Israeli and Russian delegations have been to Sudan in the last week, with US and EU envoys also present. Click here to read…

Botswana warns of dangers in dash for African minerals

African governments must be wary of the risks created by rising global competition for the continent’s minerals. Click here to read…

Italy wants more money for Africa to curb arrivals in Europe

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will ask European Union peers this week to give more money to Africa and create “European humanitarian corridors” to curb irregular immigration, a document showed. Click here to read…

Can Meloni and Italy really build energy ties with Libya?

The Italian prime minister has visited Tripoli in her bid to ramp up new cross-Mediterranean energy links, but critics say that Libya is in no fit state to be a stable energy partner for Europe. Click here to read…

Russia, Mauritania eye development of economic ties

Foreign Minister Lavrov meets Mauritanian leadership on first-ever working visit to African countryClick here to read…

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visits Mali in sign of deepening ties

Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Lavrov on a visit to Mali on Tuesday said Moscow would continue to help Bamako improve its military capabilities. Click here to read…

Attack on UN helicopter in Central Africa; 1 peacekeeper killed, another injured

A United Nations peacekeeper from South Africa was killed and another wounded in an attack on their helicopter in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Click here to read…

At least 24 dead in Somaliland fighting

At least 24 people have been killed and 53 wounded amid heavy fighting in the Somali city of Las Anod, after local clan elders declared their intention to cut ties with the breakaway republic of Somaliland and rejoin Somalia. Click here to read…

3 killed in attack on Ethiopian church amid tension over breakaway Orthodox synod

Three people were killed and at least four injured by alleged security forces in an attack on a church in southern Ethiopia Saturday amid growing tensions within the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the oldest Christian institutions in the world. Click here to read…

UN Appeals for $2.6 Billion to Ease Hunger Crisis in Somalia

The U.N. is appealing for $2.6 billion this year to assist 7.6 million of the most vulnerable Somalis who are facing acute hunger and possible famine from conflict, high food prices, and unprecedented drought. Click here to read…

WTO head wants to ‘double or triple’ Africa’s share of global trade

Global trade is expected to slow sharply this year as high energy prices and rising interest rates take their toll on the economy. Click here to read…

Africa gears up to keep more of the profits from lithium boom

Lithium-rich African countries, including Zimbabwe and Namibia, are trying to develop processing and refining industries to capture more of the profits of global demand for the battery material. Click here to read…

Morocco to invest $1.95bn in renewable energy projects in disputed Western Sahara

Morocco has launched renewable energy projects worth 20 billion dirhams ($1.95 billion) in the disputed Western Sahara region. Click here to read…

Sub-Saharan Africa is ‘New Epicentre’ of Extremism, says UN

The new global epicenter of violent Islamic extremism is sub-Saharan Africa where people are increasingly joining because of economic factors and less for religious ones, says a new report by the U.N.’s international development agency. Click here to read…

UN High Commissioner Visits Displaced in Ethiopia

U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi travelled to Ethiopia’s Tigray region this week to meet with families displaced by conflict. Click here to read…

Africa: Over Ten Ambassadors From Africa Visit China Kingho Group

On the morning of 4th February, 2023, Mr. Ding Shichao, President of China Kingho Group, accompanied the ambassadors and diplomatic staff from more than 10 African countries, including South Africa, Senegal, Benin, Rwanda, Mali, Madagascar, Malawi, Uganda, Lesotho and Chad. Click here to read…

China’s demand for Africa’s donkeys is rising. Why it’s time to control the trade

In recent years, there’s been a huge, rising demand for donkey hides in China, where they are used to make an ancient health-related product called ejiao. Click here to read…

WHO warns of Cholera outbreak in Africa, cases rise exponentially

Africa is facing an exponential rise in cholera cases, with infections in the single month of January already at a third of the level reached in the whole of 2022. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

Nigeria, India Deepen Diaspora Engagement

Nigeria and India have collaborated to deepen their engagements in the area of Diaspora development for mutual benefits as both countries continue to boost cordial diplomatic relations. Click here to read…

EAM Jaishankar meets Deputy PM of Mauritius Steven Obegadoo

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met the Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius Steven Obegadoo on Friday evening. Click here to read…

Ghana seeks Indian investment in oil and gas sector

Ghana, which is struggling with its worst economic crisis in a generation, is seeking Indian investment in its oil and gas sector, William Owuraku Aidoo, its deputy minister of energy, said on Wednesday. Click here to read…

HAL delivers advanced light helicopter to Mauritius ahead of schedule

Defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Friday said it handed over the advanced light helicopter mark-3 (ALH-Mk3) to the government of Mauritius ahead of schedule. HAL director-operations EP Jayadeva said: “HAL has handed over the helicopter way ahead of schedule. Click here to read…

Hifzur Rehman appointed next ambassador of India to Chad

Dr Hifzur Rehman, presently Director in the Ministry of External Affairs has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Chad. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Click here to read…

India’s Egyptian gateway to the Middle East

India taking more than seven decades to host the leader of the most populous Arab country as the chief guest of the Republic Day celebrations signals the current state of bilateral relations. Click here to read…

ONGC Videsh eyes oil, gas ‘hot spots’ in Africa, Latin America, says MD

It’s better to invest in bigger hot spots where you can get larger discoveries… Africa and Latin America still hold a lot of potential. Ghana is there, Suriname is there. Click here to read…

Hindustan Zinc says $2.98 billion buyout of Africa zinc assets is an ‘attractive opportunity’

The transaction, approved by the Hindustan Zinc (HZL) board on January 19, was opposed by all three government nominees on the board over several concerns. Click here to read…

Kenya cashes in on growing demand for Indian travellers

Kenya is relying on the increasing appetite for leisure travel amongst the Indian youths and professionals to increase its tourism arrivals from the market. Click here to read…

SEBI reportedly probing Adani’s links with its FPO’s Mauritius-based investors

Adani cancelled the FPO even after it was fully subscribed, but the abrupt move caught the market regulator’s eye. Click here to read…

African writers share their story of storytelling

“Africa has been in motion for a long time, and the narratives that emerge about Africa challenge the grand narrative,” said South African novelist. Click here to read…

Indian filmmakers should shoot more films in Kenya, says country’s High Commissioner to India

Bollywood is “immensely popular” in Kenya, says the country’s High Commissioner to India Ambassador Willy Bett, who invited filmmakers here to shoot films in the East African nation. Click here to read…

How India’s Gujarat was shaped by East African music and culture: the Siddi influence

Africans first arrived in India about 800 years ago; today Muslim Siddis – Afro-Indians – are mostly found in the west and southwest, practising a mix of the two cultures. Click here to read…

Gujarat businessman abducted in South Africa, freed after Rs 30 lakh ransom paid

A 28-year-old businessman from Rajkot was abducted in South Africa, and released only after his father paid the captors a ransom of Rs 30 lakh. Click here to read…

Neighborhood News Digest – 13 February 2023

Afghanistan
Al-Qaeda, LeT, JeM in Afghanistan a ‘ticking bomb’: EU special representative – Hindustan Times

Tomas Niklasson, who was in New Delhi this week for consultations with Indian officials and experts, said in an interview the Taliban set up in Kabul is serious about tackling IS-KP, though questions remain about its capacity to do so, as well as its commitment to tackling al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terror groupsClick here to read…

Russia to build a thermal power plant in northern Afghanistan – Oreanda News

Russia is going to build a thermal power plant in the north of Afghanistan. A memorandum on this was signed a few days ago in Kabul. This was announced by the Russian ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov. “Our business is still testing Islamic financial norms that are being implemented by the Taliban (the Taliban movement is recognized as a terrorist in Russia and is prohibited), but does not stand still. Just a few days ago, a memorandum on the construction of a thermal power plant in the north of Afghanistan was signed in Kabul,” Dmitry Zhirnov said on the Rossiya 24 TV channel. Click here to read…

Universities in Afghanistan threatened by economic crisis, risking closure – Financial Express

Most universities in Afghanistan are in danger of closing due to financial difficulties, according to the union representing public and private universities. With 35 universities set to shut down, the union warns that the ban on female education imposed by the Taliban is exacerbating the economic crisis. Click here to read…

Afghanistan: BIG steps proposed at Moscow NSA meet – Firstpost

Issues of international security with an emphasis on resolving the situation in Afghanistan were discussed during the consultations. According to a statement by the Security Council of the Russian Federation, these issues included the importance of fulfilling the international obligations assumed by the Taliban regime of Afghanistan to counter terrorism and extremism, drug trafficking, as well as to form an ethno-politically balanced government. Click here to read…

Afghanistan women rights activist picked for Nobel Prize – The Tribune

When the Taliban seized power in August 2021, hundreds of women’s rights activists fled Afghanistan, fearing reprisals from the militant group. But Mahbouba Seraj, one of the most prominent rights campaigners in the country, refused to leave, even though she holds a US passport, the media reported. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Who is Shahabuddin Chuppu, the next president of Bangladesh? – Dhaka Tribune

Awami League leader Md Shahabuddin Chuppu is all set to become the next occupant of Bangabhaban as the 19th president of Bangladesh. The Awami League Parliamentary Party had nominated Shahabuddin Chuppu, a former commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission, a retired district and sessions judge, and a freedom fighter, to run for president, General Secretary Obaidul Quader told the media on Sunday. The deadline for the submission ended at 4pm, and Shahabuddin Chuppu became the president-elect by default as no other party had picked a candidate for the election. Click here to read…

Bangladesh withdraws school books after anti-LGBTQ backlash – The Hindu

Bangladesh said on Saturday it had withdrawn two new school textbooks after protests from Islamist groups incensed by a curriculum overhaul to recognise transgender identities, same-sex relationships and secular science. The state-run NCTB said it took the decision to withdraw the books “due to some criticisms and to reduce reading load on students”.Click here to read…

AL lawmaker makes local body reps swear on Qur’an – New Age

The ruling Awami League lawmaker from the Rajshahi-1 constituency, Omor Faruk Chowdhury, administered an oath to the elected representatives of the local government in Godgari upazila, making them swear on the Qur’an to work for him and the party throughout their lives. Omor Faruk, also a former president of Rajshahi district Awami League, administered the oath to 11 elected representatives, making them swear on the Qur’an at his own flat in the NAM Building in the capital Dhaka on Saturday. Click here to read…

Bhutan
ACC allows 17 business entities to resume business – Kuensel

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) will hereon suspend a business licence only if there is a prima facie case of corruption in obtaining the business licence, according to its new Guideline on Suspension of Business Licence 2022. Click here to read…

DeSuung Water Project to solve water issues in Bhutan’s Martshala Gewog – The Print

DeSuung Water Project, which is expected to start its water supply soon, will solve the water issue in Bhutan’s Martshala Gewog, a village block of Samdrup Jongkhar District, The Bhutan Live reported. Today, Bhutan inaugurated the DeSuung Water Project with a groundbreaking ceremony in Martshala Gewog. Click here to read…

Bhutan: Social media platforms a way for locals to earn money – Devdiscourse

Social media users in Bhutan are facing difficulties in withdrawing their social media income. Even then the locals are ready to show their talent on the national and international stage. Click here to read…

Maldives
Political turmoil in Maldives ultimately benefits China: Report – Devdiscourse

The political rivalry between Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the current President of Maldives and Mohamed Nasheed both belonging to the same party is making the country suffer and China is becoming the ultimate benefactor, reported Maldives Voice. Solih won the presidential election with a 22 per cent margin. Although these elections were questioned by Nasheed and his allies of being rigged by Solih. The former government under Abdulla Yameen had charged Nasheed with terrorism and he was sentenced to a 13-year jail term in March 2015. Click here to read…

Maldives welcomes 42,449 tourists within first week of February – Raajje

Maldives has welcomed more than 42,000 tourists so far in February. This was revealed by the Ministry of Tourism in its latest daily statistics, publicized on Wednesday. Since the new year began, Maldives has welcomed a total of 214,985 visitors. This includes 172,536 tourists welcomed during January and 42,449 tourists welcomed on from in the first week of February. Click here to read…

Myanmar
What Can India Do To Move Myanmar Away From Further Violence? – The Wire Post

For India to depend on the Tatmadaw to contain China is even more questionable. As an independent middle power throughout history until the advent of the British, Myanmar’s default reaction to big powers – China, India and the US – has been to keep them at a distance and pursue a neutral policy. This is understandable. Click here to read…

Myanmar regime to let ‘loyal’ civilians carry licensed arms – Firstpost

Experts worry that allowing civilians to carry guns would empower pro-junta groups and only serve to escalate the violence and near-daily clashes between the military and armed resistance forces that have raged nationwide. Click here to read…

Uncertainty Looms Over Myanmar Economy: World Bank – Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s economy remains subject to significant uncertainty, with ongoing conflict disrupting businesses, according to a World Bank report. The Myanmar Economic Monitor published on January 30 said while some firms show signs of resilience, household incomes remain weak and Myanmar’s potential for growth has been severely weakened by recent shocks. “Although business conditions improved toward the end of 2022, the recent economic indicators are mixed,” said Mariam Sherman, the World Bank’s country director. Click here to read…

Nepal
Why the sudden need to ‘strengthen’ coalition? – The Kathmandu Post

As differences persist between the CPN (Maoist Centre) and the CPN-UML over the candidate for President, ruling alliance parties have started doubting the longevity of their partnership. A meeting of the ruling parties held at the prime minister’s residence at Baluwatar on Sunday failed to make any headway in the dispute with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal sticking to his proposal of finding a consensus candidate for new President. Click here to read…

Nepal govt reduces size of budget for current fiscal by 14 per cent – ANI

Nepal’s Finance Minister published the mid-term budget review report in the House of Representatives on Sunday, with the government this year reducing the size of the budget by 14 per cent. The fiscal budget of 2079/80 presented by Nepal’s former Finance Minister Janardan Sharma, which stood at NRs 1.793 trillion, was reduced by his successor Bishnu Paudel. It now stands at NRs 1.549 trillion. Click here to read…

India’s neighbourhood concern: The Uncle Sam factor in Nepal – The Telegraph Online

Kathmandu is emerging as a geopolitical theatre of the superpowers, requiring India to be nimble-footed to ensure that it is not elbowed out by the big boys. Indian foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra is scheduled to reach the Nepal capital on Monday in an outreach that marks the first high-level visit from New Delhi after Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) took over as Prime Minister late last year and at a time the Himalayan country is preparing to host a third senior US official in less than three weeks. Click here to read…

Pakistan
8 injured in attack at police officer’s house in Pakistan’s north Waziristan – The Hindu

Some unknown militants on February 12 stormed the house of a police officer and opened indiscriminate firing, injuring eight persons in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, local police said. The militants attacked the house of the police Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) in the Ghulam Khan area of the tribal district of north Waziristan bordering Afghanistan, and injured eight people, including the ASI and two women, the Police said. Click here to read…

Pakistan-US defence talks begin today – Dawn

The second round of US-Pakistan mid-level defence dialogue begins in Washington on Monday (today) to consider various options for strengthening ties between the two establishments. The Pakistani team, headed by the Chief of General Staff (CGS), Lt Gen Mohammed Saeed, reached the US capital on Sunday afternoon. Click here to read…

Pakistan to provide military supplies to Ukraine via German port: report – Wion News

Pakistan will be providing military supplies to Ukraine through a German port, concurrently with the Poland route, for transferring rockets which will be used in multi-barrel rocket launchers, according to a report published by the Economic Times. Click here to read…

Pakistan to impose taxes worth Rs 170 billion for IMF’s $7 bn bailout – The Economic Times

Pakistan is seeking a USD 7 billion bailout package from the IMF to prevent the collapse of the economy. While the visiting IMF delegation is asking for several reforms and compliance with its conditionality. The IMF mission, led by Nathan Porter, began talks on January 31 with the Pakistan government represented by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar for the ninth review of the assistance package. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Indian support helped overcome debt trap, says Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe – Wion

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe praised India’s support for his country amid the economic crisis at the opening of the Jaffna Cultural Centre (JCC). “We appreciate the support extended by the Indian government to Sri Lanka to overcome the debt trap during the economic crisis,” he said on Saturday. The president highlighted the ongoing discussions between the two nations on economic development projects in the Northern Province, development projects in the Trincomalee Port, and the energy sector. The Jaffna Cultural Centre, built with funding from the Indian government, was officially opened Saturday. Click here to read…

India dedicates Jaffna Cultural Centre to people of Sri Lanka – The Print

India on Saturday dedicated to the people of Sri Lanka the state-of-the-art Jaffna Cultural Centre which was built with India’s assistance and is a magnificent example of the bilateral development partnership. The centre, whose foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2015, was dedicated to the people of Sri Lanka after a colourful cultural show that projected the diversity and richness of Sri Lankan culture. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka seeks Canadian help to win over Tamil Diaspora – Island

Sri Lankan High Commissioner in Ottawa, Harsha Kumara Navaratne has sought Canadian support to make peace with overseas Tamil brothers and sisters in spite of the challenges. He also stressed the need to sign the MoU on bilateral consultations as it would provide a structured basis in the form of annual consultations to discuss all concerns bilaterally so that Canada and Sri Lanka could mutually resolve any concerns. Click here to read…

Neighborhood News Digest – 10 February 2023

Afghanistan
Putin Says Afghan Humanitarian Condition Has ‘Deteriorated’ – Tolo News

Russian President Vladmir Putin pointed out that the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan had deteriorated, with “four million” Afghans needing urgent emergency assistance. The fifth multilateral meeting of security envoys was held on Wednesday in Moscow. The meeting lasted for two days. Click here to read…

ISIL-K threatened to launch terrorist attacks against Indian embassy in Afghanistan: UN report – India Today

The ISIL-K have threatened to launch terrorist attacks against the embassies of India, Iran and China in Afghanistan and by targeting them, the terror group sought to undermine the relationship between the Taliban and the UN member states in the Central and South Asia region, according to a UN report. Click here to read…

$40 million in cash as humanitarian aid reaches Afghanistan – India Blooms

A fresh batch of $40 million in cash as humanitarian aid reached the cash-strapped and war-torn Afghanistan on Wednesday, Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB), the country’s central bank, said in a statement on Thursday. This is the second batch of cash as humanitarian aid arrived in Afghanistan since Jan. 14 as part of the international community’s support to help the economically impoverished country to enhance its foreign exchange reserve. Click here to read…

India-Russia to implement Strategic Partnership as country remains an important stakeholder in Afghanistan: NSA – Financial Express

Ahead of the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting in the first week of March, NSA Ajit Doval is on a two day visit to Moscow and called on President Vladimir Putin. He also participated in the 5th Multilateral Meeting of Secretaries of Security Councils/National Security Advisers on Afghanistan, he also called on President Vladimir Putin. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
PM seeks more Japanese investment in various sectors in Bangladesh – New Age

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday called upon the Japanese investors to come up with robust investment in Bangladesh’s various sectors as Japan Bank for International Cooperation governor Nobumitsu Hayashi paid a courtesy call on her. ‘Japan is a trusted partner of Bangladesh,’ PM’s speechwriter M Nazrul Islam quoted her as saying while briefing the newsmen after the meeting at the premier’s official Ganabhaban residence in the city. Click here to read…

Saudi businesses interested to invest in Bangladesh – TBS

The businesses of Saudi Arabia is very much interested to invest in Bangladesh as a high-profile delegation of the Kingdom, led by Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Muhammad bin Salman Al-Saud, would take part in the Bangladesh Business Summit in March next. Click here to read…

Sugar exports at 2.7 mn tonnes in FY23 so far; Bangladesh top market: AISTA – Business Standard

India has exported 27.83 lakh tonnes of sugar till February 9 of the ongoing 2022-23 marketing year, with Bangladesh and Indonesia being the top markets, trade body AISTA said on Thursday. The sugar marketing year runs from October to September. The government has allowed export of 60 lakh tonnes till May of the 2022-23 marketing year. According to AISTA, mills have exported a total of 27,83,536 tonnes of sugar from October 1, 2022 to February 9 this year. Click here to read…

Bhutan
RMA revises foreign exchange quota to limit misuse – Kuensel

To curb the thriving informal foreign exchange market, the Royal Monetary Authority (RMA), has revised the foreign exchange quota from February 6 this year. An official from the authority said that their study found an increase in the drawings of convertible currencies (USD) and Indian Rupee (INR) by travellers abroad. “The authority is doubtful of the misuse of the quota.” Click here to read…

Indo-Bhutan relationship touching new heights – The Sentinel

India and Bhutan’s relationship is climbing to a new height as New Delhi has been proactively supporting Bhutan in its efforts to establish a digital infrastructure, The Bhutan Live reported. On January 31, the Indian government announced its help for the development of Bhutan’s third international internet gateway. Click here to read…

Maldives
The Maldives: geopolitics of Chinese tourism – Lowy Institute

As 2023 kicks off with China reopening its borders, the Maldives is holding its breath in anticipation of a returning influx of Chinese tourists. But 2023 is also a presidential election year and like any other country, the Maldives is not immune to geopolitics. With a presidential election set for September, Maldivian candidates need to balance the economy and Beijing. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Anwar urges Thailand to step up on Myanmar crisis – Jakarta Post

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim asked Thailand on Thursday to play a bigger role in bringing stability to coup-hit Myanmar, as diplomatic efforts to bring peace there flounder. Anwar held his first bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha since the former won office late last year. The Thai government has faced international criticism for maintaining normalised ties with Myanmar’s junta and for downplaying alleged atrocities in its neighbour since the country was plunged into chaos following a putsch two years ago. “There’s very little we can do except to continue this so-called constructive engagement with the Myanmar junta,” Anwar told reporters. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta: Rohingya Repatriations Planned – Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s junta says it is working to bring back Rohingya refugees who fled Rakhine State for Bangladesh following the military’s supposed counter-insurgency operations in 2017.Junta leaders, including International Cooperation Minister U Ko Ko Hlaing, Border Affairs Minister Lieutenant General Tun Tun Naung, Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Minister Dr. Thet Thet Khaing and Immigration and Population Minister U Myint Kyaing, visited Maungdaw on the Bangladesh border on Sunday and instructed the authorities to prepare transit camps for repatriation. Click here to read…

10 Myanmar migrant workers arrested in Manipur, India – BN

Regional police arrested 10 Myanmar nationals in Churachandpur District in the Indian state of Manipur. Manipur police arrested Myanmar handloom workers in Vaal area of New Lanka on February 5th. “Last night, the Manipur police raided the handloom factory and arrested about 10 people. Now, no one dares to stay in their own homes and hide in the forest,” said a Myanmar handloom worker in Manipur. Click here to read…

Nepal
Indian foreign secretary visiting Nepal on Monday – The Kathmandu Post

After two back-to-back visits from the United States in a short span of time, it now appears to be New Delhi’s turn to engage with the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra is arriving in Kathmandu on Monday on a three-day official visit at the invitation of Foreign Secretary Bharat Raj Paudyal. Click here to read…

‘Political instability’: Nepal PM ‘Prachanda’ rules out review of Constitution – India Today

Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” on Thursday ruled out the review of the country’s Constitution, warning that such a move may lead to “political instability.” Prachanda made these comments at an event organised here to present the preliminary findings of a study on electoral reforms in Nepal. Click here to read…

Biden now invites PM Prachanda for conference amid growing US-China rivalry in Nepal – India Narrative

The United States has invited Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda to the Summit for Democracy to be hosted by President Joe Biden in late March. Samantha Power, administrator of the USAID, who paid a visit to Kathmandu on Tuesday and Wednesday, told a media briefing that Prachanda has been invited to the second Summit for Democracy which is taking place on March 29 and 30 both virtually and physically. Click here to read…

Pakistan
Pakistan, IMF fail to reach staff-level pact on bailout package: Report – Hindustan Times

The deadlock persists between Pakistan and International Monetary Fund as the two sides have failed to reach the staff-level agreement to unlock the USD 1.1 billion loan tranche after 10 days of “tough” talks, The News International reported. The development comes as negotiations, which took place between IMF and Pakistan from January 31 to February 9, concluded in Islamabad. The IMF’s mission had arrived in Islamabad to hold talks with Pakistani authorities. Click here to read…

Pakistan Skips Russia-hosted Multilateral Talks on Afghanistan – VOA News

Pakistan confirmed Thursday that it skipped this week’s Russia-hosted multilateral consultations on Afghanistan, suggesting there are other forums in which it can more effectively contribute to the Afghan peace process. Regional countries, including China, India, Iran, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan were invited to Wednesday’s security adviser-level meeting in Moscow. Click here to read…

Fuel stations across Pakistan run dry as hoarding, black market sale takes over: Report – Times Now News

Only a few days back, reports of long ques at fuel stations in Pakistan came out indicating how fast the country’s economy was taking a tumble, and to make matter worse, fuel stations in the country are now reportedly shutting down after running out of fuel. Click here to read…

A safe decision? Pakistan to give travel passes to nationality holders in Afghanistan – Firstpost

Authorities in Pakistan’s North Waziristan have announced to issue special cards to Pakistani nationality holders staying in the border areas of Afghanistan in order to facilitate their hassle-free cross-border movement. This comes amid reports of massive spike in terror activities and smuggling of millions of dollars into Afghanistan from Pakistan on a daily basis. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
IMF Insists on Creditor Assurances to Unlock $2.9 Billion Sri Lanka Bailout – Bloomberg

The International Monetary Fund said its approval for a $2.9 billion loan to bail out crisis-riddled Sri Lanka will depend on the island nation securing assurances on debt relief from its bilateral creditors. “Sri Lanka continues to engage with official bilateral creditors to obtain financing assurances and also continues to advance domestic reforms,” an IMF spokesperson said in a statement on the progress of its Extended Fund Facility to the South Asian nation. Click here to read…

In final stages of negotiations with IMF on bailout package: Sri Lanka President Wickremesinghe – The Print

President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday said Sri Lanka was in the final stages of negotiations with the IMF on the much-awaited USD 2.9 billion bailout package that could help the debt-trapped island nation recover from the unprecedented economic crisis. Wickremesinghe also said that his government was having “direct discussions” with Beijing to restructure the country’s debts with China. Click here to read…

Japan asks Sri Lanka to make efforts to regain trust of Japanese companies – Daily Mirror

Japan stressed the need for Sri Lanka to make efforts to regain the trust of Japanese companies and to resolve the issues and concerns of Japanese companies in Sri Lanka for revitalization of their economic activities in Sri Lanka, according to the Japanese embassy in Colombo. Japanese State Minister of Foreign Affairs Takei Shunsuke who was in Sri Lanka to attend the Independence Day celebration made this point when he had talks with Foreign Minister Ali SabryClick here to read…

VIF News Digest: National Security – Defence Studies & Terrorism, 16-31 January 2023

DEFENCE

  • The 15th India-UK foreign office consultations.
  • Prime Minister addresses first batch of Agniveers through video conferencing.
  • 5th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) with his ROK.
  • 21st Edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France.
  • Indian army organises a cyber threat seminar cum workshop.
  • Inaugural Edition of Indo-Egypt Joint Training Exercise Cyclone – I.
  • Overseas deployment of ICGS SHAURYA and RAJVEER to Bangladesh.
  • Indian Coast Guard conducts course for officers & sailors of six friendly countries.
  • Fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir commissioned.
  • DRDO’s Fuel Cell-based Air Independent Propulsion system to soon be fitted onboard INS Kalvari.
  • Maritime exercise TROPEX.
  • IAF’s joint air defence exercise with Japan concludes.
  • National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on an official visit to Washington DC from 30 January to 1 February 2023.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

United States
  • US Court sentenced an IS sympathiser to 50 years in prison.
West Asia
  • US drone strike killed three al-Qa’ida terrorists in Yemen.
Africa
Somalia
  • Wife of IS leader sentenced to 8 years in prison.
Burkina Faso
  • Jihadi attacks over several days killed at least 32 people in Sahel region.
Pakistan
  • Peshawar Mosque bombing: Over 100 people were killed and at least 220 injured.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir
  • Security forces arrested four LeT terrorists and destroyed the hideout in forests of Awantipora.
  • Police arrested ‘longest-surviving’ HM terrorist from Shopian.
Left-Wing Extremism
  • NIA arrested a wanted Maoist in Chhattisgarh.
  • NIA filed two chargesheet against two accused in ‘funding to the cadres of CPI (Maoist)’ case.
  • NIA arrested a Maoist from Odisha.
  • Three hardcore Maoists surrendered in Odisha.
Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
  • NIA filed chargesheet against an accused in ‘activities of IS module in India’ case.
  • NIA filed chargesheet against two accused in ‘AQIS conspiracy’ case.
  • NIA arrested a PFI’s ‘reporter’ in ‘Kerala PFI case’.
Khalistan-inspired Extremism
  • Pro-Khalistan slogans painted on walls in West Delhi area.
  • Hindu temple in Australia vandalised with ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ graffiti.

DEFENCE

The 15th India-UK Foreign Office consultations

The 15th India-UK Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) were held on 16 January 2023 in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs and the British side was led by Sir Philip Barton, Permanent Under-Secretary, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Last FOC was held in November 2020 in London.India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with the adoption of Roadmap 2030 for Future Relations. The FOC provided an opportunity to review the progress made in the implementation of Roadmap 2030. Both sides discussed issues like trade & economic cooperation, defence & security, science & technology, people-to-people relationship, health and climate change.
For more Information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister addresses first batch of Agniveers through video conferencing.

Prime Minister addressed the first batch of Agniveers of the three Services, who have commenced their basic training, via video conferencing on January 16, 2023.The Prime Minister also spoke about how the scheme will further empower women. He expressed happiness at how women Agniveers are adding pride to the Naval forces, and said that he looks forward to seeing women Agniveers in all three forces. The Prime Minister also recalled how women are leading armed forces on various fronts, citing examples of woman soldier posted in Siachen and women driving modern fighter planes.

In his welcome remarks, Raksha Mantri stated that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken a number of decisions to empower the nation, terming AGNIPATH scheme as one of the most important and unprecedented reforms.

The Raksha Mantri pointed out that several ministries, including MoD, are coming forward for the welfare of Agniveers. “Reservation is being ensured for Agniveers on a number of posts in various departments of Ministry of Defence, Central Armed Police Forces and Ministry of Railways. Arrangements are being made jointly by MoD & Ministry of Education to ensure proper education to the Agniveers. In collaboration with Ministry of Finance, arrangements are being made to provide loans at reasonable rates to Agniveers, who wish to start self-employment or any business after service.
For more information: Click here to read…

5th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) with his ROK.

Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, paid an official visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK) from 16-17 January 2023 to co-chair the 5th Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue (FPSD) with his ROK counterpart, First Vice Foreign Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea, on 16 January 2023. During the FPSD, both sides agreed to enhance India–ROK Special Strategic Partnership by strengthening strategic communication through regular high-level engagements including the Foreign Minister-level Joint Commission Meeting, ‘2+2’ dialogue involving Foreign Ministry and Defence Ministry at Vice Minister/Secretary level, other ministerial and senior official dialogues, as the two countries celebrate 50 years of establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in areas including, trade and investment, security and defence, science and technology, as well as, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
For more information: Click here to read…

21st Edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France.

The 21st Edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France – Exercise Varuna commenced on the Western Seaboard today, 16 Jan 23. While the bilateral exercise between the two navies was initiated in 1993, it was christened as ‘VARUNA’ in 2001. This edition will witness participation of indigenous guided missile stealth destroyer INS Chennai, guided missile frigate INS Teg, maritime patrol aircraft P-8I and Dornier, integral helicopters and MiG29K fighter aircraft. The French Navy will be represented by the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, frigates FS Forbin and Provence, support vessel FS Marne and maritime patrol aircraft Atlantique. The exercise will be conducted over five days from 16 to 20 January 2023.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian army organises a cyber-threat seminar cum workshop

The Indian Army under the aegis of HQ Army Training Command (ARTRAC) organised the second edition of Hackathon aptly named “SAINYA RANAKSHETRAM 2.0” from October 2022 to January 2023 with an aim to seek solutions to operational cyber challenges and to jump start and telescope the development time for innovative solutions in the field of Cyber Security. The prize winners of the event were felicitated by Gen Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff during a virtual function on 17 January 2023. The event was aimed at providing a platform to identify indigenous talent in niche domains and enhance the standard of training in domains of Cyber Deterrence, Security Software Coding, Electro Magnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) and Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ ML). The participation was open to all Indian citizens and participation permitted in an individual / team manner.
For more information: Click here to read…

Inaugural Edition of Indo-Egypt Joint Training Exercise Cyclone – I

The first ever joint exercise between the special forces of the Indian Army and the Egyptian Army named “Exercise Cyclone-I” is in progress at Jaisalmer in Rajasthan since 14 January 2023. The exercise aims to bolster defence co-operation between the two nations and focus on sharing professional skills and interoperability of Special Forces in desert terrain while undertaking counter terrorism, reconnaissance, raids and other special operations.
Exercise “Cyclone – I” is the first exercise of its kind bringing the special forces of both the nations on a common platform. The 14 days long exercise which is being carried out in the deserts of Rajasthan engages both the contingents to advance special forces skills such as Sniping, Combat Free Fall, Reconnaissance, Surveillance & Target Designation, sharing of information on weapons, equipment, innovations, tactics, techniques & procedures.
For more information: Click here to read…

Overseas deployment of ICGS SHAURYA and RAJVEER to Bangladesh

Indian Coast Guard Ships ICGS Shaurya and Rajveer were on a six-day visit to Chattogram, Bangladesh from 13 to 19 January, 2023 to enhance the cooperative engagements and interoperability under the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Indian and Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG). The visit holds significance in strengthening the bilateral relationships with BCG which has grown manifold over the years to ensure safe, secure and clean seas in the Region. The fruitful engagements with various senior officials and personnel of BCG during the visit has further enhanced the safety and security of the fishermen and mariners.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Coast Guard conducts course for officers & sailors of six friendly countries

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted a one-week Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) operations & Search and Rescue (SAR) course in Mumbai between January 16-21, 2023. The course was conducted under the aegis of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) for officers and sailors of Maritime Security Agencies from six friendly countries – Bangladesh, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Myanmar and Maldives. A total of 22 trainees (10 officers & 12 sailors) participated in the specialised training.
For more information: Click here to read…

Fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir commissioned.

Indian Navy’s fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir was commissioned into the Indian Navy today, 23 Jan 2023 at the Naval Dockyard Mumbai in the presence of Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, the Chief Guest for the ceremony. Six Scorpene Class submarines are being built in India by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai, under collaboration with M/s Naval Group, France. INS Vagir would form part of the Western Naval Command’s Submarine fleet and would be another potent part of the Command’s arsenal. Vagir was launched on 12 Nov 20, under Project 75 (P75) and was delivered to Indian Navy on 20 Dec 22 post completion of sea trials. Vagir has the distinction of having the lowest build time among all indigenously manufactured submarines till date.
For more information: Click here to read…

DRDO’s Fuel Cell-based Air Independent Propulsion system to soon be fitted onboard INS Kalvari

In a major boost to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Fuel Cell-based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system of DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) will soon be fitted onboard INS Kalvari. An agreement was signed between senior officials of NMRL and Naval Group France in Mumbai on January 23, 2023 to extend cooperation to enter into the detailed design phase for integration of indigenous AIP in the Kalvari class submarines. As part of the agreement, Naval Group France will certify the AIP design for integration in the submarines.
For more information: Click here to read…

Maritime exercise TROPEX

The 2023 edition of Indian Navy’s major maritime exercise TROPEX, is currently underway in the Indian Ocean Region. This operational level exercise is conducted biennially and witnesses participation not only by all Indian Navy units but also of Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard assets.TROPEX 23 is being conducted over a duration of three months from Jan – Mar 23.
For more information: Click here to read…

IAF’s joint air defence exercise with Japan concludes

The inaugural edition of the bilateral air exercise ‘Veer Guardian 2023’ between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) concluded in Japan, on 26 January 2023.The JASDF participated in the exercise with its F-2 and F-15 aircraft, while the IAF contingent participated with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. The IAF fighter contingent was complemented by one IL-78 Flight Refuelling Aircraft and two C-17 Globemaster strategic airlift transport aircraft.

During the joint training spanning 16 days, the two Air Forces engaged in complex and comprehensive aerial manoeuvres in multiple simulated operational scenarios. The exercise involved precise planning and skilful execution by both the air forces. IAF and JASDF engaged in air combat manoeuvring, interception and air defence missions, both in Visual and Beyond Visual Range settings. Aircrew of the two participating Air Forces also flew in each other’s fighter aircraft to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s operating philosophies.
For more information: Click here to read…

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on an official visit to Washington DC from 30 January to 1 February 2023.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is on an official visit to Washington DC from 30 January to 1 February 2023. He is accompanied by senior Government of India officials as well as leaders of Indian industry. Apart from his meeting with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, he also met Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, Acting Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, key Senators and industry leaders. He is scheduled to meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken later during the visit.

Together with NSA Sullivan, NSA Doval co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) at the White House on 31 January 2023, translating into action, the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden during their meeting in Tokyo in May 2022.
iCET aims to position the two countries as trusted technology partners by building technology value chains and support the co-development and co-production of items. It also aims to address regulatory restrictions, export controls and mobility barriers through a standing mechanism. The US side also assured support to ease export barriers to India in a few critical areas, including through efforts towards legislative changes. Emphasis was placed on strengthening linkages between the startup ecosystems and building innovation bridges in key sectors between the two countries, through expos, hackathons and pitching sessions.

In the field of defence manufacturing, the two sides agreed to focus on joint production of key items of mutual interest. The US committed to expeditious review of the license application submitted by M/s General Electric to produce jet engines in India for the indigenously manufactured Light Combat Aircraft. A new Innovation Bridge will be created to connect defence startups on both sides. In the field of space, there was appreciation of the opportunities offered by the opening up of India’s space sector, and the contribution of India’s space tech companies in the US. It was agreed that ISRO would work with NASA on human space flight opportunities, NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) project, and STEM talent exchanges.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

United States
US Court sentenced an IS sympathiser to 50 years in prison.

The United States Federal Court convicted Ibraheem Izzy Musaibli, 32 year-old, for providing and attempting to provide material support, conspiring to provide material support and attending an Islamic State (IS) training camp. The court sentenced Musaibli to maximum of 50 years in prison.

According to the Federal officials, Musaibli travelled to Yemen in April 2015 and researched about IS, including downloading group’s propaganda and an e-book on how to get into Syria. Officials said he travelled to Syria where he attended an IS-run religious training camp before going through armed/military training. Following graduation from IS’s training camp, he remained with the group before he was arrested by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDFs) and turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in 2018. Musaibli was convicted after a nine-day trial, and the jury deliberated for less than four hours. Sentencing is scheduled for 11 May 2023.
For more information: Click here to read… _

West Asia
US drone strike killed three al-Qa’ida terrorists in Yemen

On 30 January 2023, US forces carried out a drone strike on a car in Marib province in North-Eastern Yemen and killed three al-Qa’ida terrorists. However, the US administration did not comment on the incident or strike. The US considers al-Qa’ida’s Yemen branch— al-Qa’ida in Arab Peninsula (AQAP) among the most dangerous branches of global extremism network.
For more information: Click here to read… _

Africa
Somalia
Wife of IS leader sentenced to 8 years in prison.

On 30 January 2023, a military tribunal sentenced Fartun Abdirashid, wife of Abdiqadir Mumin, to eight years in prison for passing on information and organising financial transactions for Islamic State (IS). According to news reports, Abdiqadir Mumin is a head of IS group in East Africa. Fartun has been under custody since her arrest in March 2022 from Mogadishu. She had a working relationship with Bilal Al-Sudaani, a senior IS member who was killed on 25 January 2023 in US raid in Somalia’s northern Bari region.
For more information: Click here to read…

Burkina Faso
Jihadi attacks over several days killed at least 32 people in Sahel region

Multiple terror attacks by jihadists over several days have caused death to at least 32 people, including soldiers and civilians, in the Sahel region of Burkina Faso. On 30 January 2023, Burkina Faso’s State Information Agency stated on its Facebook page that dozens of soldiers and a civilian were killed in Falagountou in Sahel Region during gun-battle between military and terrorists. In two separate attacks on 28-29 January, another 20 people were killed in east-central and western regions of Burkina Faso.

Islamic extremism linked to al-Qa’ida and Islamic State (IS) has ruined the Western African nation for several years, killing thousands and displacing around two million people. According to the data prepared by Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project, almost 5,000 civilians have been killed since 2015.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pakistan
Peshawar Mosque bombing: Over 100 people were killed and at least 220 injured

During the Zuhr (noon) prayers on 30 January 2023, over 100 people were killed, mostly police personnel, and at least 220 were injured in a suicide bombing targeting a mosque in high-security area of Police Lines in Peshawar. “The attacker blew himself up while among the worshippers. 90 per cent of casualties included police personnel,” said Siddique Khan, a police official.

The commander of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or Pakistani Taliban— Sarbakaf Mohmand, claimed responsibility for attack on Twitter. However, few hours later, TTP spokesperson Mohammad Khurasani distanced the group from the bombing, saying “it was not its policy to target mosques, seminaries and religious places.”
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DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir
Security forces arrested four LeT terrorists and destroyed the hideout in forests of Awantipora.

On 30 January 2023, security forces, including Kashmir Zone police, arrested four Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists and destroyed their hideout in Hafoo Nageenpora forests of Awanipora, Union Territory in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Security forces recovered incriminating materials from terrorists’ hideout.
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Police arrested ‘longest-surviving’ HM terrorist from Shopian

On 22 January 2023, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) police arrested a ‘longest-suriving’ Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) terrorist— Nasir Ahmed Sher Gojri, from Shopian district.
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Left-Wing Extremism
NIA arrested a wanted Maoist in Chhattisgarh

On 29 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA)-Raipur arrested a female Maoist member— MadkamUngi aka Kamla, from Bhoplpatanam area in Bijapur district. Swiftly acting upon the information, soon the NIA team from Raipur was mobilised and deployed at the operation. Further investigation in this case. Further investigation in this case is in progress.
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NIA filed charge sheets against two accused in ‘funding to the cadres of CPI (Maoist)’ case

On 20 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against two accused in NIA Special Court, Jharkhand. The case— RC-05/2021/NIA/RNC pertains to the conspiracy hatched by the CPI (Maoist) operatives, for its revival of Magadh zone and to raise funds for the organisation.
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NIA arrested a Maoist from Odisha

On 23 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a Maoist— Ranju Khilo, 40 years old, from Malkangiri district in Odisha. Ranju is an accused for participating in an ambush in which four BSF personnel attained Veergati.
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Three hard core Maoists surrendered in Odisha

On 26 January 2023, three hard core Maoists— i) Manoj Madhi, ii) Pandu Kabasi, and iii) AiteKarttami, carrying bounty of ₹ 1 lakh each, surrendered before the Malkangiri district police and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel.
Recent appeals made by Odisha’s Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Director-General of Police (DGP), Odisha Police to active Maoists and militias have guided them in leaving the path of violence by surrendering and becoming part of the mainstream for peaceful development of these areas. In the past three years, more than 23 active Maoists and hundreds of active militias and Maoist sympathisers have surrendered in Malkangiri District, read the statement released by police.
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Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)
NIA filed charge sheet against an accused in ‘activities of IS module in India’ case

On 31 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against an Islamic State (IS) operative and accused— Mohammad Mohsin Ahmad, in NIA Special Court, Delhi. The case— RC-26/2022/NIA/DLI pertains to a conspiracy hatched by the IS operatives to propagate the ideology and raise funds for the organisation. The investigation had revealed that Mohsin raised funds for the IS and further sent these funds to his Syria-based IS handlers via cryptocurrency channels.
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NIA filed charge sheet against two accused in ‘AQIS conspiracy’ case

On 19 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed charge sheet against two accused— i) Akhtar Hussain Laskar, and ii) Abdul Aleem Mondal, before NIA Special Court, Bangalore. The case— RC-40/2022/NIA/DLI pertains to conspiracy hatched by the group’s operative and to send youth to Kashmir and Khurasan province in Afghanistan. The accused spoke with online handlers situated overseas using end-to-end encrypted networks. The accused attempted to recruit young people, conduct war against Bharat, and train terrorists in Afghanistan’s Khurasan Province based on the instructions of their online handlers.
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NIA arrested a PFI’s ‘reporter’ in ‘Kerala PFI case’

On 17 January 2023, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Mohammed Sadik, a Popular Front of India (PFI)’s ‘reporter’ from Kollam district in Kerala. Mohammed Sadik was arrested in connection to the ‘Kerala PFI case’— RC-02/2022/NIA/KOC which pertains to illicit activities of PFI, its office bearers, members, and other affiliates in Kerala.

Investigation have revealed that Mohammed Sadik was recruited and assigned the job of a ‘reporter’ by the PFI. A ‘reporter’ in the PFI system collects details about leaders of other community for possible targeting by ‘Hit Squads’ of the PFI. Further investigations in the case are in progress.
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Khalistan-inspired Extremism
Pro-Khalistan slogans painted on walls in West Delhi area

On 19 January 2023, pro-Khalistan slogan, including ‘anti-national’ and ‘Khalistan Referendum 2020’, in form of graffiti found on walls in West Delhi area. The Special Cell unit of Delhi Police removed the graffiti and registered the case under Sections 154B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

“In early morning hours of 19 January, multiple graffiti raising objectionable slogans appeared in the area of Vikaspuri, Janakpuri, PaschimVihar, Peeragarhi and other parts of west Delhi. Some people had painted anti-national, Khalistan-related graffiti,” said Delhi Police PRO Suman Nalwa.
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Hindu temple in Australia vandalised with ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ graffiti

On 20 January 2023, Iskcon temple was defaced with anti-Bharat and pro-Khalistan graffiti in Albert Park, Melbourne, Australia. Earlier, Shri Shiva Vishnu temple in Victoria was also vandalised with similar slogans. In January 2023, this was the third such attack on Hindu temples in Australia.
For more information: Click here to read…

Neighborhood News Digest – 09 February 2023

Afghanistan
Regional Security Officials Meet in Moscow, Discuss Afghanistan – Tolo News

The fifth multilateral meeting of security envoys was held on Wednesday in Moscow, during which they discussed the situation in Afghanistan and in the region. The Russian News Agency TASS reported that the Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev said that Washington intends to continue its geopolitical experiments, including in Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Click here to read…

India to always stand by Afghans, says Ajit Doval at Moscow meeting – The Tribune

“India is and will remain an important stakeholder in Afghanistan. We have always stood by people of Afghanistan and will always support collective efforts to help Afghan people build a prosperous and vibrant nation once again,” said Doval while participating in the 5th Multilateral Meeting of Secretaries of Security Councils/ National Security Advisers on Afghanistan in Moscow on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan: Taliban ‘desperate’ for resumption of flights to India – Firstpost

With the global community yet to recognise the current regime in Kabul, the Afghan Taliban is reportedly desperate for flights to resume between India and Afghanistan. According to a Hindustan Times report, the Taliban rulers of Afghanistan are optimistic that India will agree to resume direct flights between New Delhi and Kandahar. Click here to read…

Taliban Tighten Currency Controls After Dollar Smuggling Report – Bloomberg

The Taliban imposed fresh restrictions on people carrying foreign currency out of Afghanistan via a rare directive from the prime minister’s office after a report that millions of dollars were being smuggled in each day from Pakistan, shoring up its battered economy. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Awami League wants to see no unopposed MPs in next parliament – Dhaka Tribune

Awami League President and Prime Minister President Sheikh Hasina has called upon party lawmakers to take massive preparations for a participatory and representative election, regardless of whether the opposition BNP and its allies participate in it. Click here to read…

Fakhrul, Abbas get permanent bail – Daily Star

The High Court yesterday granted permanent bail to BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and standing committee member Mirza Abbas in a case filed over last year’s December 7 clash between police and BNP men in Nayapaltan. The HC bench of Justice Md Salim and Justice Md Riaz Uddin Khan delivered the verdict holding the final hearing on a bail petition filed by them. Click here to read…

IMF Loans and the Post-Truth Politics in Bangladesh – Geopolitics

Finally, on Jan 30, 2023, Bangladesh successfully secured loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). For the last seven months since July 2022, intense negotiations took place which also became a political scoop for Bangladesh’s political parties. Oppositions and pressure groups resorted to mass persuasion using rhetoric and ‘charlatan’ predictions and analysis to decrease citizens’ confidence in the incumbent government. For a while, they were successful in creating skepticism about whether Bangladesh would get the loans or not. Such skepticism also induced unnecessary alarm, stress, confusion, and uncertainty, and created friction in the country. Looking back at that rhetoric, and half-cooked predictions, it seems there is a ‘post-truth’ politics at play in Bangladesh regarding the IMF loan. Click here to read…

Who killed democracy in Bangladesh? – Daily Star

The minister (Obaidul Quader) has cited the “peaceful atmosphere” that prevailed during the polling on February 1. Indeed, it was very peaceful. When fewer than 20 percent of voters turn up to vote, it is bound to be peaceful. When the opposition voters are told not to bother to come to the polling stations, it is bound to be “peaceful.” When an opposition candidate goes into hiding, unable to withstand the pressure on him, peace is bound to follow. The recent by-polls represent the state of democracy in our country fairly accurately. The near-empty polling booths, if nothing, displays a lack of trust; in fact, it demonstrates people’s apathy towards elections and voting. Most voters feel it is an exercise in futility under the present circumstances, the results a forgone conclusion. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Agriculture sector contributes the least to the economy – Kuensel

Agriculture sector employs nearly half of the country’s workforce. However, it is the least productive sector in the country. According to the Royal Monetary Authority’s (RMA) recent annual report, the agriculture sector employed 158,511 persons, equivalent to 49.2 percent of the total labour force in 2021. Click here to read…

India: EAM S. Jaishankar meets National Assembly Speaker of Bhutan Wangchuk Namgyel – Georgia Online

The External Affairs Minister of India, S Jaishankar, met with the Bhutanese National Assembly Speaker, Wangchuk Namgyel, in Delhi. The officials, at the meeting, discussed ways to strengthen the economic cooperation and concerns of the youth of both nations. The Indian official met with the 13-member delegation of Namgyel while praising the kind of relations the two nations bear with each other. Click here to read…

Five from Bhutan among IRS officers training in Bengaluru – Times of India

The 74th IRS batch has 43 officers in addition to five Bhutan-origin civil servants who shared their experience of learning in India. They said the IRS syllabus offered them a chance at knowledge enhancement. They got to learn about land, sea and air trade, unlike in their land-locked country. Click here to read…

3.5 million tourists will be welcomed annually by 2028 – Pres. Solih – Raajje

The President made the statement in his Presidential Address on Monday. In his address, President Solih described the past three years as the most challenging years the Maldivian economy has faced. As such, he noted that the Covid-19 pandemic brought a complete halt to the Maldivian economy. The President stated that the administration can show results based on mathematical results on the work done and what remains to be done. He said that data demonstrate how well the Maldivian economy is doing. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Manipur governor calls for combating anti-social activities from Myanmar – North East Now

Inspecting the Indo-Myanmar border at Kasom Khullen sub-divisional headquarters in Kamjong district of Manipur, governor La Ganesan, on Wednesday, called for combating the issues of illegal migration, smuggling of drugs, weapons, sneaking insurgents, etc that are being perpetrated from neighboring countries into Indian territory. Click here to read…

Chevron exits Myanmar upstream sector – Upstream Online

US supermajor Chevron has agreed to sell its significant stake in the producing Yadana gas field offshore Myanmar to Canada’s MTI Energy, prompting Justice for Myanmar to call for Canadian and UK sanctions on state-owned Myanma Oil & Gas Enterprise (MOGE). Chevon confirmed to Upstream it has agreed to sell its 41.1% stake in the Yadana gas project to Et Martem Holdings, a subsidiary of MTI Energy. Click here to read…

Anti-junta forces retreat after holding strategic river village for several days – Myanmar Now

Resistance forces in northern Sagaing Region’s Homalin Township withdrew on Saturday from a strategically important village that they captured and held for several days last week, according to sources. Shwe Pyi Aye Myothit, located on the eastern bank of the Chindwin River some 30km southwest of the town of Homalin, fell to an alliance of anti-junta groups on February 1. It remained under their control for the next three days, despite multiple counterattacks from the military and its militia allies. Click here to read…

Nepal
How Nepal Regenerated Its Forests – Earth Observatory

Today, community forests occupy nearly 2.3 million hectares—about a third of Nepal’s forest cover—and are managed by over 22,000 community forest groups comprising 3 million households. A 2016 United Nations report on the state of forests around the world found that three countries with the most annual gain in tree cover between 2010 and 2015 were the Philippines (with an annual growth rate of 3.3 percent), Chile (1.8 percent), and Lao PDR (0.9 percent). Within community forests of Kābhrepalāñchok and Sindhupālchok, forest growth between 2010 and 2015 was 1.84 percent. Click here to read…

Nepal opens high-level dialogue with defence minister’s visit to India – India Narrative

In a bid to further deepen bilateral defense cooperation between the two countries, Nepal’s Defence Minister Hari Prasad Upreti will be paying an official visit to India next week, officials said here on Tuesday. Upreti is visiting New Delhi from February 13 to 17 at the official invitation of his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh. This is the maiden foreign visit of the defence minister after he assumed the office on January 17. Upreti’s visit will mark the first high-level exchange between Nepal and India after the Prachanda government took office following elections. Click here to read…

Key Ally Quits Government in Nepal – The Diplomat

On February 6, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) decided to quit the coalition government led by Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist Center (CPN-MC) supremo Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The party lasted barely a month in the government. Click here to read…

Pakistan
Pakistan Navy invites 110 countries for ‘Exercise Aman’; only 7 bother to send ships – Times Now

Exercise Aman, for the Pakistan Navy, is a prestigious moment. It is its biggest exercise and though it’s to begin on February 10, of the 110 countries invited, only seven have bothered to send ships or submarines. The four-day biannual exercise appears to be another sign of Pakistan’s increasing isolation and participation appears to be going down. This year only seven countries have sent ships– the United States of America, China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Italy, and Japan. Click here to read…

Turkey insults Pakistan, refuses to host PM Shehbaz Sharif – Firstpost

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif announced his visit to Ankara to show solidarity with Turkey. He did not think that the country which is currently facing a natural disaster, resources should not be spent on VIP visits. In such a situation, Turkey itself refused to host Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. Click here to read…

12 TTP militants killed in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province – The Hindu

Pakistan’s security forces gunned down 12 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants on February 8 in the country’s restive northwest, police said, as the government stepped up its offensive against outlawed groups following a spike in terror attacks. Click here to read…

Pakistan at beginning of worst economic crisis since country’s formation: Report – Economic Times

Pakistan is currently at the beginning of the worst economic crisis since the country’s formation in 1947, Geo-politik reported. According to Geo-politik, Pakistan has taken fourteen loans from the IMF thus far, but ironically none of them has ever been completed. This, therefore, raises serious questions about the capacity and capability of the Pakistan state to get out of this dead-end. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
“I will respect the country” – Daily News

President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivering the Government’s Policy Statement yesterday requested everyone not to be prisoners of the past, but think about the future. “Let’s unite consensually and move forward democratically to support the recovery of the nation from the current crisisClick here to read…

Swiss government provides funds through UNICEF to support services for children In Sri Lanka – Colombo Page

The Government of Switzerland has contributed Swiss Francs (CHF) 500,000 (approximately Rs. 199 million) through UNICEF to meet the urgent needs of children impacted by the economic crisis in Sri Lanka. With this funding, UNICEF will procure essential medical supplies, including medicines for treatment of illnesses and complications among children and women. In education, the funds will help children in disadvantaged schools continue learning and support catch-up classes to recover learning loss, including by providing transport allowance to teachers and daily snacks to students. Click here to read…

Japanese State Minister of Foreign affairs visits Port of Colombo – Daily News

Japanese State Minister of Foreign Affairs TAKEI Shunsuke visited the Port of Colombo learn about the ongoing developments in the Port of Colombo. During the visit the Japanese State Minister of Foreign Affairs also met the Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) – Keith D. Bernard and other higher officials at the main control tower of the Port. The Chairman of SLPA explained to the Japanese State Minister of Foreign Affairs of the progress of the developments of the East Container Terminal (ECT), the West Container Terminal and the North Port Development Project. Click here to read…

Neighborhood News Digest – 08 February 2023

Afghanistan
Turkiye, UAE to reduce missions in Afghanistan over ‘security concerns’ – Middle East Monitor

The embassies of Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Afghanistan intend to trim down their missions due to security concerns, after international employees reported receiving threatening letters from unknown parties, Sputnik reported. Click here to read…

Afghanistan announces aid for quake-hit Turkey and Syria – Pakistan Observer

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) on Tuesday announced AFN 15 million (approx. $166,000 USD) in humanitarian aid for people affected by recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. Of the total, AFN 10 million (approx. $111,000) will be for Turkey, and AFN 5 million (approx. $55,000) will be for Syria. Click here to read…

6 million people in Afghanistan face famine risk: UN – The Print

As Afghanistan continues to face the worst humanitarian crisis amid ongoing political chaos, the United Nations (UN) warned that two-thirds of Afghans are facing severe hunger and are in urgent need of aid, with six million facing the risk of famine, TOLOnews reported on Monday. Click here to read…

Afghanistan: Taliban issuing gun licenses to traders, businessmen as abductions soar – Firstpost

The Taliban rulers of Afghanistan have decided to provide gun licenses to traders in the capital Kabul. The Taliban’s security department in Kabul has announced that businessmen in Afghanistan’s capital will be provided with security and gun licences. According to a report by Tolo News, the Taliban arrived at the decision after a series of meetings with traders in Kabul. Click here to read…

Pakistan: Peshawar Bombing Planned In Afghanistan, Foreign Intelligence Agency Funded It, Say Investigators – Outlook

The suicide bombing in Pakistan’s Peshawar was planned in Afghanistan and the terror plot was funded by a foreign intelligence agency, according to Pakistani investigators on the case. A suide bomber struck a mosque in high-security Police Lines area of Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on January 30. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Bangladesh seeks new terms for Adani coal electricity deal – Washington Post

Bangladeshi officials are seeking a discount on electricity purchased from the power company owned by Gautam Adani, according to a stock exchange filing that was made public on Tuesday, in the latest sign of mounting scrutiny of the Indian billionaire’s dealings. Click here to read…

Political trajectory of Bangladesh – New Age

As regards to parliamentary elections, it is almost certain that ruling party candidates will make it to parliament even without competing for people’s votes. Today, nomination from and loyalty to the ruling party are more important than the support and confidence of the electorate. Hence, once electoral candidates of the ruling party become members of parliament or ministers, they remain beholden to the party, not to the people of their constituency or the country; and they serve the interests of the former, not the latter. Click here to read…

The Constitutionality of 15th Amendment – The Daily Star

In 1996, the BNP-led government passed the 13th Amendment to the constitution, allowing the formation of the neutral caretaker government (NCG). The amendment represented a “political settlement” as the then Awami League-led coalition of parties demanded such a system, and BNP, after much resistance, accepted it. It not only allowed a peaceful transfer of power, but also provided equal opportunity to major political parties. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Current account deficit to widen to Nu 75.63B in June this year – Kuensel

Bhutan’s current account deficit (CAD) is estimated to deteriorate further by 19.3 percent to Nu 75.63 billion (B) in June this year from Nu 63.4B in the same month the previous year. These figures are based on the Macro-economic Framework Coordination Technical Committee of the finance ministry. Click here to read…

Bhutan to add more solar capacity to reduce reliance on imports – minister – Reuters

Bhutan will add around 300 to 400 megawatts (MW) of solar energy generation capacity in the next two to three years to reduce its dependency on electricity imports from India, the Himalayan kingdom’s minister for economic affairs said on Monday. Click here to read…

DGPC will take over the Kholongchhu project – Kuensel

Druk Green Power Corporation (DGPC) has asked for a loan from the Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), and other financial institutions of India to finance 600MW Kholongchhu Hydro Energy Limited (KHEL). Nu 4.5B was spent on the project so far. The project’s total cost is estimated at Nu 54.4B at the 2020 price level. Click here to read…

Bhutan’s parliamentary delegation calls on President – Mint

A Parliamentary Delegation from Bhutan led by Wangchuk Namgyel, Speaker of the National Assembly of Bhutan, called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. India is foraying into new avenues of bilateral cooperation with Bhutan such as space cooperation, smart agriculture, youth and sports, start-ups, renewable energy and digital development, to help the Royal Government of Bhutan realize its vision of prosperity for all. Click here to read…

India will always be a reliable friend to Bhutan: Om Birla to Bhutan National Assembly speaker – The Hindu

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on February 6 said India would always be a reliable friend to Bhutan while noting the ₹2,400-crore allocation for the neighbouring country in this year’s Union Budget during a meeting with a Bhutanese Parliamentary delegation. Click here to read…

Maldives
Maldives offers condolences following tragic loss of lives, massive destruction in the wake of earthquake in Turkey – Raajje

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has extended condolences following the powerful earthquake in Turkey, which has resulted in the loss of many lives. In a Twitter post on Monday, the Maldivian leader expressed grief in hearing of the earthquake that shook Turkey. He extended sympathies and condolences to the families mourning the death of their loved ones. Click here to read…

Police assault 2 journalists covering political protest in the Maldives – Committee to Protect Journalists

Maldives authorities must swiftly investigate the recent assaults of journalists Hassan Shaheed and Ahmed Misbaah and ensure that members of the press can report on public events without fear of violence by police, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Tuesday. Click here to read…

Myanmar
New sanctions on Myanmar 2 years after military coup – the Malaysian Reserve

THE US and its allies Canada, the UK and Australia have imposed fresh sanctions on Myanmar, adding to pressure on the military regime, two years since it overthrew the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on Jan 31 the US restrictions target six individuals and three entities linked to the junta’s efforts to generate revenue and procure arms, including senior leadership in its energy sector and its Air Force. Click here to read…

HURFOM wants Myanmar junta to face ICC having documented its abuses – Mizzima

The Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) is calling for a referral of the Myanmar military to the International Criminal Court to ensure that there is an end to military rule. Whilst the new sanctions announced by the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom to mark the second anniversary of the February 2021 coup were welcome, according to HURFOM these actions came too little too late for the thousands of people killed by the Burma Army. Click here to read…

Myanmar junta makes plans for elections – Mizzima

The junta propaganda leader General Zaw Min Tun said that it is still too early to say whether the election will be held or not. It has been a controversial topic among the public. Some are wondering if the military junta is really going to back out of the elections because of the disapproval of the people, revolutionary forces and international organisations. But, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing is committed to election preparations. Click here to read…

Nepal
Rs 38m worth of tea exported – The Himalayan Times

According to National Tea and Coffee Development Board (NTCDB), tea farming is done on around 27,500 hectares of land, with more than one-third of the total tea gardens located in Jhapa. Of the total 28 million kilograms of tea, Jhapa produces as much as 18 million kilograms, which is the highest in terms of district-wise production, Chief of NTCDB Indra Prasad Adhikari said. Click here to read…

Nepal launches National Pashmina Sector Export Strategy to increase to USD 75 million exports by 2026 – My Republica

The Government of Nepal today unveiled its National Pashmina Sector Export Strategy 2022-2026′, which is expected to enhance the supply capacities of the private sector and reconnect the sector with regional and global markets for more Himalayan Chyangra Pashmina exports. Click here to read…

Pakistan
Pervez Musharraf buried in Karachi; PM, prez, army chief did not attend funeral – Hindustan Times

Pakistani former President Pervez Musharraf, a key U.S. ally in the campaign against al Qaeda following the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, was buried in his hometown of Karachi on Tuesday. Click here to read…

All Parties Conference on terrorism postponed for the second time – Dawn

The All Parties Conference (APC) — called by the incumbent government to discuss important security and economic challenges being faced by Pakistan — has been postponed for the second time this week. The multi-party moot was first slated for Feb 7 (today). However, in a tweet yesterday, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb had rescheduled the conference to Feb 9, Thursday. She did not mention why the meeting was moved. Click here to read…

Putin snubs Pakistan; Russia declares ‘won’t do anything that impacts India ties’ – Hindustan Times

Russia has presented fresh proof of its close partnership with India. The Vladimir Putin administration has “strangled” its defence ties with Pakistan in favour of “friend” India. Denis Alipov, the Russian Ambassador to India, clarified in a statement that “Russia would never do anything detrimental to India.” The clarification came after Russian Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Moscow would continue to support Pakistan in regular military contacts. On January 30, Pak Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto visited Moscow to intensify Islamabad’s defence and trade cooperation with Russia. Click here to read…

Debt reprofiling viable option for Pakistan under IMF watch: report – Business Recorder

Reprofiling of bilateral debt remains a viable option under the International Monetary Fund (IMF)‘s watch, according to a report by Arif Habib Limited, as Pakistan remains in talks with the Fund’s mission for the resumption of the stalled ninth review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). Click here to read…

Pakistan sets up relief fund for Turkey earthquake victims – The International News

In response to the deadly earthquake in Turkey that has claimed over 5,000 lives, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the establishment of a relief fund to help victims. After a plane load of relief goods and a rescue team from Pakistan reached Turkey, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb took to Twitter and said: “To help the victims of the earthquake in Turkey at this difficult hour, PM Shehbaz Sharif has decided to establish PM Relief Fund.” Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Paris Club creditors give assurances to back IMF bailout for Sri Lanka – Reuters

The Paris Club of creditors has given financing assurances to support the International Monetary Fund’s approval of an extended fund facility for Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan president’s office said on Tuesday. The assurances are crucial to unlocking a $2.9 billion deal from the IMF, which is still pending executive board approval. “Paris Club members as well as Hungary, Saudi Arabia and India continue to look forward to working together along with all bilateral creditors and to engage with other key stakeholders in order to proceed with a comparable debt restructuring as soon as possible,” the informal group of creditors said in a separate statement on Tuesday. Click here to read…

India the biggest friend of Sri Lanka: PM – Investing

Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardene on Tuesday called India as the biggest friend of Sri Lanka in the time of crisis. Addressing the Tata Tiscon Dealer Convention 2023, he called on Indian companies to invest further in Sri Lanka. Outlining the benefits of Indian investments in Sri Lanka, PM Gunawardene highlighted that 90 per cent of components used by Lanka Ashok Leyland (NS:ASOK) were indigenous. At the event, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay said that both the Indian government and Indian corporates are working to build relationships that are beneficial to the people within and beyond India, especially the neighbours, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” Policy. Click here to read…

Thirteenth amendment to Sri Lankan Constitution, No lessons learnt in 75 years – The Leaflet

The political implication of not implementing a proper federalist policy is the Tamils in Sri Lanka losing their voice and rights, thereby being subjected to further marginalisation. Every self-respecting Tamil in India and across the world should ask for nothing less than a federal Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Neighborhood News Digest – 07 February 2023

Afghanistan
Saudi diplomats leave Afghanistan, relocate to Pakistani capital -sources – The Print

Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan for “training” and will return, the Taliban administration said on Monday, though three sources familiar with the matter said security concerns had contributed to their departure. Click here to read…

Dollars Smuggled From Pakistan Provide Lifeline for the Taliban – Bloomberg

Millions of dollars are being smuggled into Afghanistan from Pakistan every day, providing some support for the squeezed economy after the US and Europe denied the Taliban regime access to billions in foreign reserves. For Islamabad, the outflows are exacerbating a rapidly developing economic crisis. Click here to read…

Qatar Envoy Speaks with Kabul Officials About Economy, Girls’ Education – Tolo News

The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Counterterrorism and Mediation in Conflict Resolution, Dr. Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani, had discussions with the Islamic Emirate officials regarding politics, the economy, girls’ education, and women’s employment in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh
Bangladesh could buy 10-12 spot LNG cargoes in Feb-June – Reuters

Bangladesh will buy 10-12 spot LNG cargoes between February and June if prices soften further, an energy adviser to the prime minister told Reuters on Monday, in a reversal of a government decision last year to halt spot purchases after prices spiked. “This is a high demand season for us. Ramadan is coming, this is also irrigation season, therefore, if market softens, we will buy 10-12 more spot LNG cargoes,” Bir Bikram Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury said on the sidelines of the India Energy WeekClick here to read…

Idols at 14 Hindu temples vandalised in Bangladesh: Report – Hindustan Times

As many as 14 Hindu temples in Bangladesh were vandalised by “unidentified miscreants” on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, sparking fear among locals. The incident took place in Baliadangi Upazila area, news agency ANI reported citing local media. Click here to read…

4 direct questions to Bangladesh Home Minister after 14 attacks on Hindu temples | Exclusive

India Today’s Shahidul Hasan Kokhon spoke to Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to understand how he perceived the issue and his party’s stand on it. Click here to read…

Bhutan
Bangladesh could buy 10-12 spot LNG cargoes in Feb-June – Reuters

Bangladesh will buy 10-12 spot LNG cargoes between February and June if prices soften further, an energy adviser to the prime minister told Reuters on Monday, in a reversal of a government decision last year to halt spot purchases after prices spiked. “This is a high demand season for us. Ramadan is coming, this is also irrigation season, therefore, if market softens, we will buy 10-12 more spot LNG cargoes,” Bir Bikram Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury said on the sidelines of the India Energy WeekClick here to read…

Idols at 14 Hindu temples vandalised in Bangladesh: Report – Hindustan Times

As many as 14 Hindu temples in Bangladesh were vandalised by “unidentified miscreants” on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, sparking fear among locals. The incident took place in Baliadangi Upazila area, news agency ANI reported citing local media. Click here to read…

4 direct questions to Bangladesh Home Minister after 14 attacks on Hindu temples | Exclusive

India Today’s Shahidul Hasan Kokhon spoke to Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to understand how he perceived the issue and his party’s stand on it. Click here to read…

Maldives
Beyond Realpolitik: Enlisting the Maldives into the U.S. Indo-Pacific Vision – South Asian Voices

In February 2020, then-U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo visited the Maldives to announce plans to open a resident U.S. embassy in the country. That same year, the United States also entered into a “Framework for Defense Cooperation” with the Maldives, committing both countries to uphold peace and security in the Indian Ocean and to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. While bilateral relations date back to 1966, this will mark the first time Washington will have resident diplomatic representation in the Maldives, symbolizing a growing mutual interest in strengthening relations. Click here to read…

Myanmar
Myanmar Junta Rewards Crony Arms Dealer With Palm Oil Plum – Irrawaddy

Myanmar’s military regime has permitted the US-sanctioned Htoo Group, owned by a notorious arms dealer, to import over US$5.4 million worth of palm oil per month, according to operators in the edible oil business. The Htoo Group of companies is owned by junta crony U Tay Za, who was sanctioned by the US last year for providing arms to Myanmar’s military. The group is currently led by his sons, who have also been targeted by US sanctions. Click here to read…

10 Myanmar immigrants held in Manipur – Times of India

At least 10 Myanmar nationals, including five women, were arrested from Churachandpur district on Sunday afternoon for crossing into the Indian territory illegally without any valid papers. The development took place after 80 illegal immigrants from Myanmar were arrested by a joint security team from Tengnoupal district last month. Click here to read…

Nepal
Nepal’s RSP quits coalition government, 3 ministers resign – The Telegraph

The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), the third largest member of the ruling coalition in Nepal, has quit the government led by Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ after he denied reinstatement of the party’s chairperson Rabi Lamichhane to the post of Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. Three ministers of the RSP on Sunday resigned after a joint meeting of the party’s central members and lawmakers decided to quit the government. Click here to read…

After Power, another senior US official is visiting Nepal – The Kathmandu Post

The Administrator of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Samantha Power starts her two-day Nepal visit on Tuesday. And a week after her return, another senior official of the Biden administration is visiting Kathmandu, foreign ministry officials said. Click here to read…

Amid slump in power generation, NEA reduces supply to industrial sector – The Kathmandu Post

The Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower Project, the country’s largest power project with a capacity of 456 megawatts (MW), is currently producing just around 77MW of electricity. This, according to the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), is due to the reduced water level in the Tamakoshi river with the country seeing no winter rainfall. Click here to read…

Pakistan
Normalisation of India-China relations better for the world; weak Pakistan would not be better for the region, says Russian envoy – The Hindu

The sooner there is normalisation in India-China relations, the better it would be for the world, Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said, adding that a weak Pakistan would not be better for the region, India or Afghanistan, and Russia would not do anything detrimental to India in its relations with Islamabad. Mr. Alipov acknowledged that India-Russia ties have been under stress for sometime in terms of economic ties, which had accelerated since last year due to the “tectonic geopolitical” shifts in Europe, referring to the war in Ukraine. Click here to read…

Pakistan will lose moral ground on Kashmir if it gives recognition to Israel, says Imran Khan – The Print

“Because Kashmir is a disputed territory between Pakistan and India, we do make statements on that. About Israel, it was the stated position of the founder of Pakistan and the situation is similar to what is happening in Kashmir,” he said, responding to a query about him not commenting about China’s atrocities towards Uyghur Muslims. Click here to read…

Split-up polls unaffordable, agree Punjab, KP governors – Dawn

Khyber Pakhtun­khwa Governor Haji Ghulam Ali on Monday met his Punjab counterpart Balighur Rehman and caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi and agreed that the country could not afford separate elections in current circumstances and, therefore, polls for national and provincial assemblies should be held later this year after the completion of the federal government’s tenure in August. Click here to read…

Analysis: How dependable is US offer of help with terror threat – Dawn

A SPIKE in terrorist attacks in Pakistan has once again forced the United States and its old — but not always close — ally to consider reviving their coordination against terrorism. “There are groups in Afghanistan that pose a threat to both of us, and it’s only appropriate that we coordinate our efforts to counter them,” Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari told Dawn. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan President Pledges Full Implementation of 13th Amendment – Diplomat

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe informed the All-Party Leaders Conference on Reconciliation on January 27 that the Cabinet was agreeable to fully implementing the 13th amendment to the constitution. Wickremesinghe said that he is bound to implement the laws of the land. The 13th amendment, he pointed out, is part of the constitution. He reiterated this in his address to the nation on Sri Lanka’s Independence Day. Click here to read…

Prez Wickremesinghe Assures To Fix Sri Lanka’s Debt-Ridden Economy – Business World

Amidst the ongoing financial crisis in Sri Lanka, President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Sunday assured of fixing the debt-ridden country by treating the “root cause” of the malaise and not by administering “painkillers.” The president in his series of tweets suggested systematic change and national unity in conjunction with economic reforms can help the country to achieve prosperity. He further pointed out many of his decisions as unpopular. But this will not let any of my fellow citizens starve or die in queues, he added. Click here to read…

South Asian countries endorse SL’s proposal to set up climate change university – Daily News

Bhutan Education and Skills Development Minister Jai Bir Rai called on Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena at Temple Trees yesterday and held detailed discussions on bilateral relations, potential for investments and regional issues. The Prime Minister referred to the historic religious and cultural relations between the two countries and said the efforts must be made to enhance trade, investments and tourism. Minister Jai Bir Rai thanked Sri Lanka for providing scholarships to Bhutanese students to study medicine, engineering, information technology and other courses in premier universities. He also expressed willingness to send Bhutanese teachers and educationists to the South Asian Teacher Education Development Centre set up in Sri Lanka with assistance from UNESCO. Click here to read…