World

In a significant diplomatic development, India and Israel have elevated their long standing bilateral relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. The move came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with both nations agreeing to accelerate negotiations on a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the prestigious Speaker of the Knesset Medal by Israel’s Parliament during his official visit, marking a key diplomatic milestone in the strengthening strategic partnership between India and Israel.

India and Israel have officially started the first round of negotiations for a proposed Free Trade Agreement in New Delhi. The talks come just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Israel, signalling a fresh push to deepen economic cooperation and expand bilateral trade between the two nations.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit India from February 26 in what is being seen as a major diplomatic step to rebuild ties after tensions surrounding the Hardeep Singh Nijjar controversy. The visit is expected to focus on trade, defence cooperation and strategic partnerships between Ottawa and New Delhi.

India has clarified its position after signing a United Nations joint statement criticising Israel’s expansion activities in the West Bank, saying the document was not formally negotiated and reflects its long standing diplomatic stance.

Global tensions are mounting after reports suggest that the United States military could be ready to launch a strike on Iran as early as this weekend. Poland has now asked its citizens to leave Iran immediately, warning that evacuation may soon become impossible if the situation escalates into armed conflict.

French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly defended the Rafale fighter jet deal with India, stating that the agreement significantly enhances India’s strategic strength and boosts defence ties between the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh’s newly appointed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to visit India in a significant diplomatic move aimed at reinforcing bilateral cooperation and regional stability in South Asia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron during his official visit to India, highlighting the deep trust between the two nations. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation while jointly working towards eliminating terrorism at its roots.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has acknowledged the circulation of a video featuring US President Donald Trump referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political career. The ministry says it has not been able to verify the clip’s authenticity but will take necessary action if it proves genuine.