Summary of the Article on Africa Day and India's Role in Digital Transformation

Africa Day, observed on May 25, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 and represents the continent’s ongoing pursuit of unity, independence, and development. The African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) emphasizes the significance of digital innovation in driving socio-economic growth. In this context, India is recalibrating its development diplomacy in Africa, blending traditional state financing with innovative, socially embedded solutions.

Key Developments in India-Africa Digital Partnerships:

• India's Development Diplomacy: Emphasizes blending state-led financing with technical training and infrastructure projects enhanced by concessional credit.
• Social Enterprises: Increased participation of low-cost, high-impact social enterprises marks a shift toward inclusive partnerships.
• Historical Reference: Initiatives like the Pan-African e-Network (2009) have laid the groundwork for digital engagement, providing tele-medicine and tele-education through satellite and fibre-optic infrastructure.

Current Initiatives:

• Country Collaborations:
  • Togo (2021): MoU with IIT-B to implement a Modular Open-Source Identification Platform for national digital ID.
  • Zambia (2023): MoU with IIIT-B to scale the Smart Zambia Initiative for digital transformation.
  • Namibia (2024): Agreement with NPCI to develop a UPI-like payment system.
  • Ghana: Integration of its payment systems with India’s UPI for quicker transactions.

Comparative Analysis of Digital Diplomacy:

• India's Competitive Edge: Focuses on a digital public good model that is open-source, emphasizing public welfare rather than proprietary interests. This contrasts with partners like China, which often provides state-backed financing that may align with governmental needs, making it a preferred choice for some African nations.
• Competitive Landscape: India, the European Union, and the U.S. are all vying for influence in Africa, with India's DPI model standing out due to its affordability and scalability.

Educational and Infrastructure Initiatives:

• IIT Madras in Zanzibar: This campus serves as a strategic intervention, offering degrees in Data Science and AI, and aims to link technical capacity-building with socio-economic development by collaborating with Indian private sector partners.

Challenges and Solutions:

• Digital Divide: Africa faces significant challenges with a vast digital divide characterized by high costs of data and devices, rural-urban connectivity disparities, and gender gaps in access and literacy.
• Energy Demand: The advancement of digital infrastructure is contingent upon reliable energy supplies; addressing this will require coordinated investments in sustainable energy sources.

Progress and Fundamental Foundations:

• Approximately 85% of African nations have instituted national ID systems with digital capabilities, and over 70% are employing biometric data for authentication, which lays a strong foundation for developing interoperable public digital platforms.

Future Prospects:

• The establishment of a new India-Africa digital compact could foster digital inclusion. This framework would be built on principles of mutual respect, co-development, and sustainable long-term partnerships.

Important Sentences:

• Africa Day, observed on May 25, represents the continent’s pursuit of unity, independence, and development.
• The African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) prioritizes digital innovation for socio-economic growth.
• India is shifting its development approach in Africa to include more integrated, technology-driven partnerships.
• Landmark collaborations include the MoUs between India and Togo, Zambia, Namibia, and Ghana, focusing on digital infrastructure and payment systems.
• India's DPI model is framed as a digital public good, contrasting with more surveillance-driven approaches from other partners.
• The challenges of Africa's digital divide involve high costs, connectivity disparities, and energy supply issues.
• 85% of African nations now have digital ID systems, providing a foundation for digital governance and services.

Summary of Recent Developments in India-Pakistan-China Relations and AI Technology

On May 22, 2023, the Ministry of External Affairs of India emphasized the nation's firm stance against cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. India’s National Security Adviser informed Beijing of this position, reiterating that the foundation of India-China relations relies on mutual respect and sensitivity. This message comes in the context of Pakistan's military interactions involving Chinese technology, specifically referencing the recent operation where India's air defenses intercepted a Chinese-made PL-15 missile during “Operation Sindoor.”

Key Developments:

• Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's Visit to China (May 19-21): During his three-day visit, Dar celebrated the "ironclad" relationship of China and Pakistan. He announced plans for an extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, suggesting an intent to improve bilateral ties amidst longstanding tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban-led Afghan government.

• Support from China: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed support for Pakistan's sovereignty, calling for dialogue with India to settle differences peacefully. Notable discussions included reviving CPEC, which connects China’s Xinjiang to Pakistan’s Gwadar port, and expanding it to incorporate Afghanistan.

• National Security White Paper Release by China: China released a white paper titled "China’s National Security in the New Era," emphasizing an expansive concept of national security covering various themes including technology security, border negotiations, and development priorities. It only briefly mentioned India concerning border security, maintaining a focus on internal stability as a prerequisite for national growth.

• U.S.-China Technology Rivalry: Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, remarked that U.S. restrictions on advanced chips to China inadvertently strengthened Chinese tech firms by motivating them to develop domestic capabilities. Huang’s comments highlighted how export controls reduced Nvidia's market share in China and underscored the shifting dynamics in AI technology advancements.

• Chinese Caution Towards U.S. Policies: In light of the U.S. imposing stricter policies on advanced technology exports to China, including several AI-specific regulations, China called for the U.S. to revise its stance, stressing cooperative approaches for mutual benefits and acknowledging advancements made by companies like Huawei despite export restrictions.

Economic and Strategic Insights:

• CPEC's Struggles: While CPEC aims to boost economic synergy, it has faced challenges due to security threats in regions like Balochistan. The project’s viability remains uncertain as financial returns are questioned amidst ongoing militant activities.

• Impact of Technology Policies: The conversation focusing on AI technologies indicates the growing interdependence and competition between nations. The U.S. has classified countries based on access to technology, impacting India's positioning between the U.S. and China.

• Regional Implications: The evolving relationship among India, Pakistan, and China—especially with Afghanistan's inclusion—poses potential shifts in regional power dynamics, especially given Pakistan’s reliance on China and its complex relations with the Taliban government in Afghanistan.

In conclusion, the developments in May 2023 underline a complex interplay between national security interests in South Asia and global technology rivalries, underscoring the strategic calculations that each country is undertaking in light of both geopolitical tensions and economic aspirations.

Important Points:

• India's NSA conveys firm stance against Pakistan's cross-border terrorism to China.
• Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attends a three-day visit to China, discussing CPEC expansion into Afghanistan.
• China expresses unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty amid India-Pakistan tensions.
• China's national security white paper emphasizes internal stability, mentioning India only in context to border security.
• Jensen Huang of Nvidia speaks on how U.S. chip export restrictions have inadvertently empowered Chinese tech.
• CPEC faces challenges with security and financial viability; Pakistani military has conducted strikes against militants in Afghanistan.
• Growing technology rivalry between the U.S. and China has significant implications for global AI development.

Summary:

Recent actions by the Donald Trump administration have intensified scrutiny over Harvard University's longstanding relationship with China. The administration has accused the university of permitting undue influence from the Chinese government and fostering antisemitism on campus. On a recent Thursday, the administration moved to revoke Harvard's ability to admit foreign students, particularly targeting Chinese nationals who constituted approximately 20% of its international student body in 2024. Following this development, Harvard filed a lawsuit against the decision, leading a federal judge to temporarily block the order on Friday.

Key points of concern surrounding China's influence at Harvard include:

• Accusations of Exploitation: Lawmakers, primarily from the Republican party, argue that China is exploiting elite institutions like Harvard to gain access to advanced U.S. technology while dodging national security barriers and stifling anti-Beijing sentiments in the U.S.

• Political Motivations: Harvard maintains that the administration's actions are politically charged and infringe on its First Amendment rights regarding free speech.

• Longstanding Ties: Harvard's collaborative engagements with China span several decades, encompassing various research partnerships and significant financial contributions, which have previously been viewed positively but are now seen through a national security perspective.

• Reactions from Former Leaders: Larry Summers, a former president of Harvard, referred to the administration's actions as unprecedented and detrimental to the United States’ global standing, suggesting that it compromises America's role as a guiding force.

• Chinese Government’s Response: The Chinese Embassy in Washington defended educational exchanges between the U.S. and China, asserting that such collaborations hold mutual benefits and cautioning against stigmatization.

Key Notable Episodes:

• Harvard reportedly continued training officials from the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) in public health, despite U.S. sanctions imposed in 2020 relating to human rights abuses against Uyghurs in Xinjiang. These engagements are said to have continued into 2024.

• Ronnie Chan, a real estate magnate and significant benefactor of Harvard’s School of Public Health (with a contribution of $350 million), is affiliated with the China-United States Exchange Foundation, identified as a foreign principal under U.S. law due to its lobbying activities.

• Charles Lieber, a former chemistry professor at Harvard, was convicted in 2021 for deceiving about his financial receipts related to China while managing federally funded research. He was previously part of the "China Initiative" during the Trump administration, which was later overturned by the Biden administration due to concerns about racial profiling effects on scientific partnerships.

Recent Incidents: Tensions surrounding Chinese influence extend to direct confrontations, as highlighted by an incident in April 2024 where a Harvard activist was removed by a Chinese exchange student during a protest, igniting discussions on the activities of Beijing-aligned student organizations.

Furthermore, the Department of Education is investigating Harvard's foreign funding disclosures, prompted by a review indicating "incomplete and inaccurate" records regarding overseas contributions.

Important Points:

• Trump's administration alleges Chinese influence at Harvard, intending to revoke foreign student admissions.
• Federal judge temporarily halts the decision after Harvard's lawsuit.
• Harvard insists on the political nature of these actions and First Amendment rights.
• Decades-long ties with China involve research partnerships and funding, now posing national security concerns.
• Larry Summers criticizes the attack on Harvard as a strategic advantage to China.
• The Chinese Embassy highlights the benefits of US-China academic exchanges.
• Ongoing investigations reveal concern over overseas funding transparency at Harvard.

Summary:

The Ministry of External Affairs of India conveyed a firm stance against cross-border terrorism from Pakistan during communications with China, emphasizing mutual trust and respect as foundational for India-China relations. Notably, this discussion arises following the interception of a Chinese-made PL-15 missile by India's air defense system during Operation Sindoor. Senior Indian defense officials raised concerns regarding Pakistan's military alliances with China while Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited China, reiterating the "ironclad" relationship between the two nations.

Key Developments:

1. Pakistan-China Relations:

   • Ishaq Dar's visit to China occurred from May 19 to 21, 2023.
   • Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, urged peaceful resolution of India-Pakistan differences and offered China’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty.
   • A proposed "upgraded version" of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is in the works, which may extend to Afghanistan—despite the complex relations Afghanistan shares with Pakistan under the Taliban.
   • Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed in principle to diplomatic rapprochement, highlighting a shared interest in enhancing bilateral relations.

2. China's National Security White Paper:

   • The Chinese government released a comprehensive document titled ‘China’s National Security in the New Era’ which underscores the importance of national security covering various domains like AI, climate change, and border issues with India.
   • The paper mentions China's negotiations with 12 out of its 14 land neighbors concerning border disputes, indicating ongoing talks with India and Bhutan.
   • An emphasis on the balance between development and security is prevalent, marking a shift where economic growth is framed as a national security issue, particularly in relations with the US.

3. Impact of US Policies on China’s Tech Development:

   • The US has issued restrictions on the export of advanced semiconductor technology to China, seen as a move to curtail Chinese advancements in AI.
   • Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, asserted that these export controls have inadvertently fortified China's tech industry by prompting it to develop its semiconductors.
   • Paradoxically, while the US aimed to diminish China's influence, they have catalyzed domestic advancements, demonstrated by the high performance of Chinese companies like Huawei.

4. The AI Race:

   • Continuous advancements in AI technology signal significant competition, with US restrictions prompting China’s rapid strides in the field.
   • Policies classified countries into tiers regarding access to technology—India falling in a middle ground while China remains barred from advanced tech.
   • These measures aimed at securing US strategic relevance have instead altered the landscape of tech competition between the US and China.

Conclusion: This convergence of geopolitical dynamics illustrates a complex interplay between defense, economic policies, and international relations among India, Pakistan, China, and the US. The evolving relationships and ongoing dialogues underscore regional security concerns and the importance of strategic partnerships, especially amidst rising technological competition.

Important Points:

• India’s NSA communicated a strong anti-terrorism stance to China.
• Ishaq Dar's visit reinforced Pakistan-China ties; discussions included CPEC expansion to Afghanistan.
• China's national security document addresses comprehensive security including economic threats.
• US restrictions on semiconductor exports Iimpact China's tech growth; Nvidia's CEO labels these restrictions a failure.
• The AI race intensifies amid geopolitical tensions and responses to US technological embargoes.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed key issues regarding terrorism, bilateral relations, and India's foreign policy in a series of meetings and interviews during his visit to Germany, part of a three-nation tour that included Denmark and the Netherlands.

Summary of Events

• Pahalgam Terror Attack Response: Jaishankar emphasized India's "zero tolerance for terrorism" in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, attributing the incident to cross-border links with Pakistan. He affirmed that India "will never give in to nuclear blackmail."
• Bilateral Relations with Pakistan: Jaishankar reiterated that India will engage with Pakistan solely through bilateral channels, dismissing external interference.
• Support from Germany: German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul publicly condemned the terrorist attack and underscored Germany's support for India's right to self-defense against terrorism. Wadephul advocated for a bilateral resolution to India-Pakistan issues, reflecting Germany's position as a strategic partner.

Key Meetings and Discussions

• Strategic Partnership with Germany: Jaishankar highlighted discussions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, focusing on enhancing the strategic partnership between the two nations. The talks covered various sectors such as trade, technology, defense, energy, and societal exchanges.
• Global Cooperation: Both Jaishankar and Wadephul discussed cooperation in international forums such as G4 and G20, emphasizing Germany's importance as a partner for India.
• Critique of Europe's Stance: Jaishankar criticized European countries for supporting military dictatorships in Pakistan, contrasting this with India’s commitment to democracy. He argued that the support for military rule undermines regional stability and democracy.

Security and Military Context

• May 10 Agreement: In a statement regarding a previously reached understanding between Indian and Pakistani militaries, Jaishankar clarified that the understanding to halt military actions was directly negotiated between the two militaries, contrary to claims by former US President Donald Trump of US mediation.
• Counter-Terrorism Measures: The external affairs minister stated that terrorism ranks among the top collective challenges facing nations today, alongside climate change and poverty.

Economic and Strategic Discussions

• Resilience in Supply Chains: Jaishankar held talks with German Minister of Economy and Energy Katherina Reiche, focusing on enhancing talent linkages and establishing partnerships to build resilient supply chains.
• Global Challenges: During his visit, Jaishankar spoke on global issues impacting countries, particularly in the Global South, highlighting the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic as a serious concerns for nations.

Conclusion

Jaishankar’s engagements in Germany reflect India's proactive stance on security and bilateral relations, particularly concerning terrorism and strategic partnerships. His comments underscore a clear message about India's foreign policy focused on sovereignty, self-defense, and direct negotiations without external intervention.

Important Points:

• India has a "zero tolerance" policy towards terrorism.
• Jaishankar emphasizes bilateral relations with Pakistan.
• Germany supports India's right to defend itself against terrorism.
• Talks with Germany focused on trade, technology, and defense.
• Jaishankar criticized European support for Pakistan's military dictatorship.
• The cessation of military hostilities with Pakistan was directly negotiated between military leaders, not through external mediation.
• Discussions included building resilient supply chains and enhancing economic partnerships.

On May 23, 2025, Moscow reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism in collaboration with New Delhi, coinciding with an Indian parliamentary delegation's visit to Russia led by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi. The visit aimed to address terrorism emanating from Pakistan, following the Pahalgam attack that resulted in 26 fatalities.

Summary:

• A statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry indicated both countries' strong commitment to a joint fight against terrorism, emphasizing enhanced cooperation at regional and global levels, particularly within the UN, BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
• Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko expressed hope for de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan through diplomatic means.
• The Indian delegation received a warm welcome at the Smolenskaya Square, and engaged in discussions on bilateral cooperation with members of the Russian Federation Assembly, including the Duma's International Affairs Committee chairperson Leonid Slutsky and Federation Council members.
• The Russian side condemned the recent terrorist attacks and expressed solidarity with India in its fight against terrorism.
• The delegation, with a focus on international outreach, included members from various Indian political parties: Samajwadi Party, National Conference, Bharatiya Janata Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal, Aam Aadmi Party, along with ambassadors Manjeev S. Puri and Jawed Ashraf.
• This diplomatic mission is part of a broader strategy following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's declaration of a “new normal”, considering any cross-border terrorism as a declaration of war.
• The delegation's itinerary includes meetings with local think tank experts, a press conference, and interactions with the media before traveling to Slovenia.
• In its effort, the Indian government aims to address and raise awareness about terrorism and Pakistan's activities on a global platform, with plans for seven multi-party delegations visiting 33 countries.

Key Points:

• Date of Events: May 23, 2025
• Objective: Strengthening collaboration against terrorism.
• Main Participants: Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Kanimozhi Karunanidhi; Russian officials including Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko.
• Russian Support: Commitment to joint action against terrorism, readiness to cooperate at international platforms.
• Pahalgam Attack: Highlighted as a catalyst for the delegation's discussions, resulting in 26 deaths.
• Indian Government's Stance: New approach towards cross-border terrorism following Prime Minister Modi's declaration.
• International Engagements: Delegation scheduled to visit Slovenia, Greece, Latvia, and Spain as part of diplomatic outreach.
• Composition of Delegation: Members from various Indian political parties aimed at a unified front against terrorism.

This meeting reinforces the strategic partnership between India and Russia in addressing global security threats, specifically terrorism, while aiming for peaceful relations in the South Asian region.

Summary of the News Article on External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's Remarks in Berlin

On May 23, 2025, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the pressing issue of terrorism during a press conference in Berlin, following discussions with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul and a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. His remarks were notably made against the backdrop of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, emphasizing India's steadfast position on terrorism and its approach towards Pakistan.

Key Highlights:

• Zero Tolerance for Terrorism: Jaishankar stated, “India has zero tolerance for terrorism” and reaffirmed that India would “never give in to nuclear blackmail,” highlighting the severity of the cross-border connections to the recent terrorist incident.

• Bilateral Engagement with Pakistan: He asserted that India would handle its relations with Pakistan on a purely bilateral basis, clarifying the approach to what he described as an ongoing and complex relationship. He emphasized the importance of having “no confusion in any quarter” regarding this stance.

• Support from Germany: Following Jaishankar's statements, Foreign Minister Wadephul condemned the terror attack and endorsed India's right to defend itself against terrorism. Wadephul also proposed a bilateral resolution to the India-Pakistan dispute.

• Strategic Partnership Discussion: Jaishankar and Wadephul highlighted the strengthening of India-Germany relations, noting the 25 years of their Strategic Partnership. They discussed potential areas for deeper collaboration and reiterated the mutual benefits this partnership could deliver.

• Economic Ties: Jaishankar identified Germany as India’s largest economic partner within the EU and expressed intentions to enhance economic ties further. He was optimistic about achieving a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU by the end of 2025, noting that it would unlock significant business opportunities for both nations.

• Statements on Cooperation: Jaishankar reflected on how the partnership has gained momentum in recent years with diverse cooperation facets, indicating a shared commitment to enhancing strategic and economic cooperation.

• Importance of FTA: Both leaders noted that a successful conclusion of the EU-India FTA negotiations could open up new avenues for commerce and bilateral support in various sectors, such as defense, security, and technology. They acknowledged that Germany has been a strong advocate for expediting the FTA process.

Additional Context:

• International Relations Focus: Jaishankar remarked on the global implications of regional security issues and emphasized that India's diplomatic strategies must be responsive to threats of terrorism while fostering international partnerships.

• Recent Meetings: Jaishankar's Berlin visit concludes a three-nation tour that also included engagements in the Netherlands and Denmark, signifying India's active diplomatic outreach in Europe.

• Prior Engagements: His attendance at this conference follows earlier directives issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen aimed at accelerating the FTA negotiations, showcasing a concerted effort to enhance India-EU strategic relations.

In conclusion, Jaishankar's discussions in Berlin signify India's commitment to counter-terrorism, uphold bilateral diplomacy with Pakistan, and strengthen economic ties with Germany, all of which are pivotal for India’s international standing and regional security architecture.

Important Sentences - Bullet Points:

• India has a zero tolerance policy towards terrorism and will not yield to nuclear blackmail.
• Jaishankar emphasized a bilateral approach to India-Pakistan relations at the press conference.
• Germany's Foreign Minister publicly condemned the Pahalgam attack and supported India’s right to self-defense.
• Both nations marked 25 years of their Strategic Partnership and discussed expanding cooperation.
• Jaishankar recognized Germany as India’s largest economic partner in the EU, with plans for a Free Trade Agreement.
• Aiming for a successful FTA conclusion, the leaders indicated potential substantial benefits for both economies.

Summary of Recent Developments (May 19-23, 2025)

1. International Monetary Fund's Funding to Pakistan:

   • The IMF Executive Board unanimously decided on May 9, 2025, to provide additional funds to Pakistan, which did not require a vote.
   • India abstained from the decision citing Pakistan’s ineffective track record in utilizing such funds.

2. India's Stand on Terrorism:

   • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India's zero tolerance for terrorism during his statements in Berlin on May 23, 2025.
   • Jaishankar asserted that India will only engage with Pakistan bilaterally and will not succumb to nuclear threats in reference to the Pahalgam massacre.

3. Knife Attack in Hamburg, Germany:

   • A knife attack occurred at the main train station in Hamburg on May 23, 2025, resulting in at least 12 injuries.
   • The police have arrested a suspect and undertook a significant operation at the site.

4. Extreme Weather in India:

   • A survey by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication and CVoter revealed that 71% of Indians have faced severe heatwaves, with additional statistics indicating widespread experiences of extreme weather events such as floods and irregular monsoons from December 2024 to February 2025.

5. Harvard's Legal Challenge:

   • A federal judge in Boston blocked measures by the Trump administration aimed at restricting Harvard’s enrollment of foreign students, citing First Amendment violations.
   • Harvard argued that such actions were retaliatory and could have detrimental effects on thousands of visa holders.

6. Maoist Encounters in Maharashtra:

   • Four Maoists, including two women, with a total bounty of ₹18 lakh were killed on May 23, 2025, in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, by security forces.
   • This incident followed a recent encounter that resulted in the deaths of 27 Maoists.

7. COVID-19 Cases in Delhi:

   • As of May 23, 2025, Delhi reported 23 COVID-19 cases, prompting the government to prepare hospitals for more emergencies, ensuring bed and oxygen availability.
   • Health Minister Pankaj Singh confirmed the active case count and the government's verification of patients' residency status.

8. Tragic Incident in the Indian Army:

   • Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari, a newly commissioned officer of the Sikkim Scouts, died on May 22, 2025, while heroically saving a fellow soldier during a mission in north Sikkim.

9. Turkiye's Arrests Related to Coup Attempts:

   • Turkiye has arrested 65 military and police personnel on May 23, 2025, for alleged links to Fethullah Gulen, who is accused of orchestrating the failed coup in 2016.

10. Indian Premier League (IPL) Update:

    • In IPL 2025 match, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a victory against Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 42 runs on May 23, 2025, with standout performances from Ishan Kishan and the opening pair.

Key Points:

• IMF Funding: Unanimous IMF decision to support Pakistan; India abstained.
• India's Anti-Terror Stance: Minister Jaishankar emphasizes bilateral relations with Pakistan.
• Hamburg Attack: Knife attack leads to multiple injuries and police operations.
• Climate Change Survey: Majority of Indians report extreme weather events.
• Harvard Lawsuit: Court halts federal restrictions on foreign student enrollment.
• Maoist Killings: Four Maoists killed in Maharashtra encounter.
• COVID-19 Advisory: Delhi issues warnings as case numbers increase.
• Army Officer’s Sacrifice: Lieutenant Tiwari dies in action in Sikkim.
• Coup-Related Arrests in Turkiye: Ongoing investigations into past coup involvement.
• IPL Match Result: Sunrisers Hyderabad defeats Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

This summary emphasizes the key factual details and developments relevant to international relations, domestic issues, and societal challenges in the context of contemporary Indian and global events.

On May 23, 2025, the spokesperson for the Pakistan Foreign Office, Shafqat Ali Khan, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining the ceasefire with India, which was established following a recent escalation of conflicts. This statement was made during a weekly briefing, where Khan emphasized the importance of de-escalation and the potential for stability and resolution of ongoing issues between the two nations.

Key Points:

• Ceasefire Commitment: Pakistan is fully committed to the ceasefire declared on May 10, 2025, following an intense period of conflict.
• Communication Channels: The military communication between India and Pakistan is established through the Directors General of Military Operations, facilitating discussions aimed at de-escalation.
• Indus Waters Treaty: Regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, Khan asserted that Pakistan does not recognize any provision allowing for unilateral suspension of the treaty and stressed Pakistan’s intention to secure its rightful share of water resources.
• Kartarpur Corridor Access: Despite hostilities, the Kartarpur Corridor remains open; however, Khan accused India of preventing pilgrims from accessing this facility since May 7.
• Diplomatic Relations with Afghanistan: On the matter of Afghanistan, Khan mentioned that Pakistan is reviewing when to upgrade diplomatic relations, noting that interactions between the two countries remain active despite the lack of ambassadorial-level engagement.
• Recent Conflict Background: The statement followed various military actions, including India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, resulting in significant casualties. This operation was in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 individuals.
• Escalation Timeline: Following the Indian strikes on May 7, Pakistan launched counterattacks over the next three days. The conflict led to an agreement on a cessation of hostilities on May 10 after four days of tension.

The overall context indicates a fragile yet currently stable state of affairs between India and Pakistan, with both sides showing some willingness to pursue diplomatic channels despite the backdrop of violence and military actions. The commitment to the ceasefire, along with continued dialogue, points towards an effort to stabilize the situation and potentially resolve underlying disputes.

In summary:

• Pakistan is committed to the ceasefire since May 10, 2025.
• Military communication channels are active to facilitate de-escalation.
• Pakistan asserts that the Indus Waters Treaty cannot be suspended unilaterally by India.
• Kartarpur Corridor remains open; India accused of restricting pilgrim access.
• Diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan continues despite lower-level interactions.
• The ceasefire follows significant military engagements resulting from a Pahalgam terror attack.

On May 23, 2025, Moscow reaffirmed its strong commitment to collaborating with New Delhi in the fight against terrorism during discussions with an Indian all-party parliamentary delegation. This statement came after a series of talks led by DMK Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, aimed at addressing terrorism sources, particularly those originating from Pakistan. The discussions occurred shortly after the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in 26 fatalities, highlighting the urgency of tackling terrorism.

Key points from the meeting include:

• Joint Commitment: The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized a definitive commitment to a joint and uncompromising fight against all forms of terrorism. They expressed readiness to enhance cooperation in international contexts, particularly within the UN, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

• Focus on De-escalation: Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko articulated hope for the de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan through peaceful diplomatic dialogue.

• Parliamentary Cooperation: Discussions included enhancing cooperation between the legislative bodies of both countries, with a focus on increasing the effectiveness of the bilateral Inter-Parliamentary Commission.

• Engagement with Experts: The Indian delegation had significant discussions with Mikhail Fradkov, former Prime Minister of Russia, who now heads the Russian Institute of Strategic Studies. This interaction centered prominently on global security concerns, notably those linked to terrorism.

• Solidarity Against Terrorism: The Russian side condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed solidarity with India in eliminating terrorism, highlighting a shared stance against such threats.

• Schedule for Delegation: The Indian delegation, which arrived in Moscow on the night of May 22, engaged in high-level meetings and planned further interactions with think-tanks before departing for Slovenia. This visit is part of a broader diplomatic initiative by the Indian government to highlight Pakistan’s role in fostering terrorism.

• Global Outreach: Kanimozhi's delegation is one of several multi-party teams tasked with reaching out to international audiences across 33 capitals to address concerns regarding Pakistan's alleged support for terrorism and to articulate India’s responses.

• Economic Context: This diplomatic effort follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s declaration of a “new normal,” suggesting that India will treat any instance of cross-border terrorism as an act of war, highlighting an escalation in the Indian government’s posture towards threats from Pakistan.

This outreach is significant not only for its immediate diplomatic effects but also as a step towards fortifying international alliances against terrorism, which remains a prevailing global security issue.

Important Sentences:

• Moscow emphasized a decisive commitment to a joint fight against terrorism with New Delhi.
• The discussions followed the Pahalgam attack, which resulted in 26 deaths.
• Russia expressed readiness to enhance cooperation primarily in UN, BRICS, and SCO frameworks.
• The Deputy Foreign Minister expressed hope for de-escalation between India and Pakistan through diplomacy.
• The delegation included members from various political parties, highlighting a unified Indian parliamentary stance.
• Solidarity against terrorism was a key theme from the Russian side during discussions.
• The visit is part of a broader effort by the Indian government to address terrorism and engage internationally.
• Prime Minister Modi’s "new normal" policy indicates a hardening stance on terrorism.