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2 NOVEMBER 2019
Germany’s Merkel renews push for FTA with India, pledges green funds
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Saturday (Nov 2) there was a need for a fresh attempt to restart talks on finalising a free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/germanys-merkel-renews-push-for-fta-with-india-pledges-green-funds
https://www.dw.com/en/merkel-modi-talk-trade-in-india/a-51079239
29 OCTOBER 2019
India ‘hand picks’ far-right EU parliamentarians to assess troubled Kashmir
The visit drew ire from rights activists and leaders of the opposition as the ruling BJP has barred foreign journalists and independent groups from visiting Kashmir, where a clampdown on dissent has continued since August 5
https://www.trtworld.com/magazine/india-hand-picks-far-right-eu-parliamentarians-to-assess-troubled-kashmir-30944
https://www.dw.com/en/european-lawmakers-in-kashmir-amid-tensions/a-51030892
8 OCTOBER 2019
India takes first delivery in French jet deal
India received on Tuesday the first of 36 Rafale fighter jets ordered from France in 2016 in a multi-billion-dollar deal that Paris hopes will unlock more sales
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/india-takes-first-delivery-in-french-jet-deal-1.66995998
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-receives-first-rafale-fighter-jet-from-france/article29618964.ece?homepage=true
23 SEPTEMBER 2019
‘Howdy, Modi!’: Trump hails Indian PM at ‘historic’ Texas rally
US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged warm words of friendship in Texas at a rare mass rally for a foreign leader
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-49788492
https://www.thestatesman.com/world/usa-loves-india-says-donald-trump-howdy-modi-event-1502802952.html
4 SEPTEMBER 2019
India keen to acquire shipbuilding tech from Russia as Modi-Putin visits modern shipyard in Vladivostok
Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled on a ship with Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Zvezda shipbuilding complex, the first stop in his two-day visit to the Russian Far East region and spent quality time together as Delhi showed interest in acquiring shipbuilding technology from Moscow
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-keen-to-acquire-shipbuilding-tech-from-russia-as-modi-putin-visits-modern-shipyard-in-vladivostok/articleshow/70979714.cms
https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/russia-already-india-s-biggest-arms-supplier-in-line-for-more-119090401471_1.html
3 SEPTEMBER 2019
Geopolitical role of India: Problems of multi-vector policy
21 JUNE 2019
How yoga diplomacy helps India assert its rising global influence
On International Yoga Day, Modi uses one of India’s most popular exports to mark his nation’s rising place in the world
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/06/yoga-diplomacy-helps-india-assert-rising-global-influence-190621104210036.html
https://www.dnaindia.com/india/photo-gallery-cong-only-stands-for-negativity-amit-shah-flays-rahul-gandhi-for-mocking-yoga-day-and-insulting-our-forces-2763584
20 JUNE 2019
Indian Navy plans to build 6 submarines
15 JUNE 2019
A new era in Indian foreign policy?
Modi proved to be a remarkably peripatetic prime minister during his first five years in office. He travelled to 55 countries and made 48 foreign trips. Not since former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru has an Indian prime minister demonstrated a similar interest in and commitment to foreign policy
https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2019/06/13/a-new-era-in-indian-foreign-policy/
8 JUNE 2019
Modi launches coastal radar system in Maldives
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated a coastal radar system and military training centre in the Maldives, as New Delhi seeks to fend off Chinese influence in the strategically-placed nation
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/modi-launches-coastal-radar-system-in-maldives-1.64477507
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-maldives-sign-six-key-agreements/article27698918.ece?homepage=true
https://www.oneindia.com/international/in-a-first-ferry-service-to-connect-india-and-maldives-2902071.html
31 MAY 2019
Admiral Karambir Singh takes charge as new Indian Navy chief
Force modernisation and maintaining the high operational tempo will be the two main challenges for new Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh, who took over from Admiral Sunil Lanba on Friday with a pledge to “work on the path of predecessors”
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/admiral-karambir-singh-takes-charge-as-new-navy-chief-1.64310825
6 MAY 2019
How PM Modi changed the face of Indian foreign policy
India has usually adopted a “non-aligned” foreign policy, but since Prime Minister Modi came to power in 2014, New Delhi has shown more assertiveness in international relations, particularly in its dealing with Pakistan
https://www.dw.com/en/how-pm-modi-changed-the-face-of-indian-foreign-policy/a-48618235
13 APRIL 2019
India–Maldives relations improving despite obstacles
India–Maldives relations under Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih started well. But sustaining the positive momentum will require hard work given complicated domestic politics, external relations and strategic interests
https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2019/04/12/india-maldives-relations-improving-despite-obstacles/
India hopes to avoid US sanctions over Russian missile deal
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin in October, defying US warnings of sanctions on countries buying Russian military equipment
https://www.trtworld.com/asia/india-hopes-to-avoid-us-sanctions-over-russian-missile-deal-25807
4 APRIL 2019
US set to sell India advanced copters to hunt submarines at sea
India is expected to soon get one of the most advanced naval helicopters capable of hunting submarines in the sea and launching anti-surface missions. The US state department has approved the sale to India of 24 MH-60R multi-mission helicopters for an estimated cost of $2.6 billion
https://www.asianage.com/india/all-india/040419/us-set-to-sell-india-advanced-copters-to-hunt-submarines-at-sea.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVOSmUNw8DQ
31 MARCH 2019
Time for thinking the Australia–India relationship afresh
Australia–India engagement has accelerated over the last few years. In 2014, the Indian prime minister visited Australia after a gap of 28 years. Three years later during former Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull’s state visit to India, the two countries proclaimed themselves ‘partners in the Indo-Pacific’
https://www.eastasiaforum.org/2019/03/31/time-for-thinking-the-australia-india-relationship-afresh/
28 MARCH 2019
US to offer India alternative to Russian S-400 missile defence system
The US is working with India to offer an alternative to the Russian S-400 Triumf missile defence system, according to Assistant Defence Secretary Randall Schriver, but he left open the possibility that Washington may not punish New Delhi over the $5.4 billion (Dh19.8 billion) Moscow deal
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/us-to-offer-india-alternative-to-russian-s-400-missile-defence-system-1.62965849
India’s Narendra Modi announces successful anti-satellite system
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the country had joined the space “super league” on Wednesday after it successfully tested an anti-satellite system in a demonstration of its space warfare capabilities
https://www.thenational.ae/world/asia/india-s-narendra-modi-announces-successful-anti-satellite-system-1.841801
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/mission-shakti-in-the-global-space-defence-race/cid/1687633?ref=top-stories_home-template
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/india-gets-anti-satellite-capability-to-become-space-superpower-pm-1.1553669804791
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20190327_35/
27 FEBRUARY 2019
China, Russia, India to strengthen cooperation
China, Russia and India on Wednesday agreed to enhance coordination and cooperation, firmly uphold multilateralism and jointly fight against terrorism
https://www.chinadailyasia.com/articles/24/240/112/1551276717194.html?newsId=63133
https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/wang-china-india-should-tap-their-potentials-asianewsnetwork
20 FEBRUARY 2019
Saudi crown prince vows to improve ties on first visit to India
Saudi Arabia’s crown prince has pledged investment and counterterrorism support on his first visit to India. Mohammed bin Salman’s visit comes amid tension in the subcontinent after last week’s suicide attack in Kashmir
https://www.dw.com/en/saudi-crown-prince-vows-to-improve-ties-on-first-visit-to-india/a-47593942
https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/ties-with-india-in-our-dna-1.62190394
https://www.trtworld.com/business/saudi-prince-sees-100b-worth-of-investment-opportunities-in-india-24319
https://www.indiawrites.org/india-and-the-world/saudi-arabia-upbeat-on-india-opportunity-backs-terror-concerns/
15 FEBRUARY 2019
India says will ensure ‘complete isolation’ of Pakistan after worst terror attack under Modi
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 15) promised a strong response to a car bombing in Kashmir that killed 44 paramilitary officers that his government blamed on Pakistan, ratcheting up tensions with the nuclear rival
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/india-says-will-ensure-complete-diplomatic-isolation-of-pakistan-after-worst-attack
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/after-pulwama-attack-india-launches-diplomatic-drive-to-isolate-pakistan/articleshow/68012784.cms
http://www.asianage.com/india/all-india/160219/pakistan-denies-link-vows-strong-reply.html?utm_source=latestPromotion&utm_medium=end&utm_campaign=latest
13 FEBRUARY 2019
Rafale controversy: What you need to know about India’s fighter jet deal with France
A 2016 fighter jet deal with France is beginning to cause problems for Prime Minister Modi, whose detractors accuse him of corruption. Here are 10 key points about the agreement between New Delhi and Dassault Aviation
https://www.dw.com/en/rafale-controversy-what-you-need-to-know-about-indias-fighter-jet-deal-with-france/a-47495210
11 JANUARY 2019
FOR INDIA AND CHINA, UNCERTAINTY IS THE ONLY SURE THING ABOUT 2019
If 2018 was the year China and India repaired their relations, this may be, for both countries, the year of uncertainty
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/geopolitics/article/2181382/india-and-china-uncertainty-only-sure-thing-about-2019
5 JANUARY 2019
Is India Recalibrating its Afghan Policy?
Is India rethinking its approach to the Taliban? It would certainly seem so. After years, nay decades, of refusal to talk to the Taliban, India sent its representatives to Moscow on November 9, 2018 to finally sit at the same table as the representatives of the militant organization at the “Moscow format.”
http://ippreview.com/index.php/Home/Blog/single/id/868.html
25 DECEMBER 2018
India’s Modi opens mega road and rail bridge in boost to India’s defences along China border
India on Tuesday opened its longest rail and road bridge in a poor northeastern state as part of efforts to boost defences on its sensitive border with China
https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/2179475/indias-modi-opens-mega-road-and-rail-bridge-boost-indias
https://www.livemint.com/Politics/fGJ1b6s6qZ4t3mbsQyRZYJ/Bogibeelbridgealifeline-for-people-of-Assam-and-Arunachal.html
10 DECEMBER 2018
India Test-Fires its Longest Range Nuclear Capable Ballistic Missile Agni-V
Considered a major deterrent against China, Agni-V is expected to join India’s Strategic Forces Command very soon. The missile is capable of hitting targets anywhere in Asia, and parts of Africa and Europe
https://sputniknews.com/asia/201812101070547229-india-test-fires-nuclear-missile/
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/nuclear-capable-agni-v-successfully-test-fired-off-odisha/article25711075.ece
20 NOVEMBER 2018
Vietnam Offers India Chance to Get Tougher Against Maritime Rival China
Advances in relations between Vietnam and India will help both countries resist Chinese expansion in Asia including the contested South China Sea, Asia scholars say
https://www.voanews.com/a/vietnam-india-relations/4666001.html
https://en.vietnamplus.vn/vietnam-india-issue-joint-statement/142210.vnp
14 NOVEMBER 2018
India-US discuss defence and trade cooperation during PM Modi’s Singapore visit
India and the US on Wednesday discussed their roles in a free Indo-Pacific region and cooperation in defence and trade sectors during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President Mike Pence on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit
https://www.businessinsider.in/india-us-discuss-defence-and-trade-cooperation-during-pm-modis-singapore-visit/articleshow/66620261.cms
http://www.asianage.com/india/all-india/141118/pm-modi-mike-pence-discuss-defence-trade-cooperation-in-indo-pacific.html
9 NOVEMBER 2018
Afghan peace conference: India shares table with Taliban
New Delhi has sent former Indian envoys to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Amar Sinha and TCA Raghavan respectively, to attend the conference at the “non-official level”
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/11/afghan-peace-conference-india-shares-table-taliban-181109092419577.html
https://www.thestatesman.com/india/first-india-hold-talks-taliban-non-official-level-moscow-1502706157.html
29 OCTOBER 2018
Japan, India agree new defence and economic projects
Japan and India agreed Monday (Oct 29) to upgrade diplomatic and military ties, with Tokyo also offering low-interest loans as the two countries seek closer ties to balance China’s weight in the region
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/japan-india-agree-new-defence-and-economic-projects-10876574
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20181029_42/
https://www.thestatesman.com/india/india-japan-agree-to-hold-22-dialogue-1502702249.html
14 OCTOBER 2018
India Resists US to Preserve Strategic Autonomy
5 OCTOBER 2018
India ignores US threat, inks $5 billion S-400 missile deal with Russia
Under the more than $5 billion deal, Russia will supply five regiments of the highly-sophisticated missiles to India. These missiles will provide India umbrella coverage against any air-borne threats like fighter jets, missiles and UAVs
https://www.thestatesman.com/india/india-inks-deal-buy-5-s-400-triumf-missiles-russia-1502693079.html
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/india-russia-seal-69b-missile-system-deal
https://www.oneindia.com/india/s-400-that-india-is-buying-from-russia-can-launch-72-missiles-2788691.html
23 SEPTEMBER 2018
Does India endorse a US-led regional order?
Despite US President Donald Trump’s cold approach, the strategic partnership between India and the United States is deepening
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2018/09/23/does-india-endorse-a-us-led-regional-order/
12 SEPTEMBER 2018
Rafale jets key in defusing China threat, Indian Air Force chief says
Russian-made S-400 Triumf advanced air defence systems will also enhance the capability of the air force, Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa says
https://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/rafale-jets-key-in-defusing-china-threat-indian-air-force-chief-says-1.2277701
6 SEPTEMBER 2018
US, India seal military communications pact, plan more exercises
India and the United States signed an accord on secure military communications that both sides hailed as a breakthrough on Thursday (Sept 6), possibly opening the way for sales of sensitive US military equipment to India
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/us-india-seal-military-communications-pact-plan-more-exercises
https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/diplomacy/article/2163035/us-india-seek-deepen-defence-ties-and-sign-security-accord
24 AUGUST 2018
Re-shaping India-United States Defense Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific
It is time for the United States to recognize that the Indian Ocean is the next front line of world geopolitics and the emerging arena for a new “great game.” China’s aggressive inroads into the Indian Ocean through military bases, port leasing, and predatory economics present an imminent strategic challenge, as these advances will result in an Indo-Pacific that is less free, less open, less secure, and less prosperous for the United States and India
https://www.cogitasia.com/re-shaping-india-united-states-defense-cooperation-in-the-indo-pacific/
25 JULY 2018
India to open 18 embassies in Africa
India plans to open 18 new embassies in Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said, in the latest sign that the Asian state is seeking to strengthen its presence on the continent
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-africa-44922404?ns_mchannel=social&ns_source=twitter&ns_campaign=bbc_live&ns_linkname=5b58496ea08104067893363e%26Indian%20to%20open%2018%20embassies%20in%20Africa%26&ns_fee=0#post_5b58496ea08104067893363e
https://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/in-visit-to-africa-modi-outlines-plans-for-partnerships-1.2256883
7 JULY 2018
India’s quadrilateral conundrum
When Modi delivered his landmark speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on 1 June 2018, there was no mention of India’s concerns over Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea. Nor did Modi explicitly mention the ‘quadrilateral’ — the emerging strategic grouping that includes India, the United States, Japan and Australia which aims to counter an increasingly assertive China
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2018/07/06/indias-quadrilateral-conundrum/
22 JUNE 2018
India’s Growing Footprint in the Middle East
On March 22, 2018, Indian national carrier Air India made a historical flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv, flying straight over Saudi Arabian airspace. Israel has no diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. While there was initial denial by Saudi authorities and silence from Air India, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confidently asserted that the flights would commence soon. And soon they did
http://ippreview.com/index.php/Home/Blog/single/id/730.html
14 JUNE 2018
UN calls for international probe into Kashmir rights violations
UN Human Rights Office report accuses India and Pakistan of ‘excessive use of force’ and human rights abuses in Kashmir
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/06/calls-inquiry-human-rights-violations-kashmir-180614082257845.html
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-kashmir-pakistan-un/united-nations-urges-inquiry-into-human-rights-violations-in-kashmir-idUSKBN1JA0PG
https://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-slams-un-report-on-kashmir-1.2237061
13 JUNE 2018
India refuses to endorse China’s Belt And Road project
Attending its first meet after becoming a full member of the SCO, India demonstrated its opposition to the ambitious BRI, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that mega-connectivity projects must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries
https://asianews.network/2018/06/13/india-refuses-to-endorse-chinas-belt-and-road-project/
5 JUNE 2018
India to go ahead with $5.5b Russia arms deal
India will go ahead with the proposed purchase of five regiments of Russian-made S-400 Triumf advanced air defence system despite US concerns that the $5.5 billion (Dh20.1 billion) military deal could limit defence cooperation between New Delhi and Washington
https://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-to-go-ahead-with-5-5b-russia-arms-deal-1.2232160
28 MAY 2018
India to ignore US sanctions on Iran, Venezuela
India will keep trading with Iran and Venezuela despite the threat of fallout from US sanctions against the two countries, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said Monday
https://nation.com.pk/28-May-2018/india-to-ignore-us-sanctions-on-iran-venezuela
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-sushma-swaraj-tells-iran-new-delhi-s-position-independent-we-only-follow-un-sanctions-not-us-sanctions-2619725
21 MAY 2018
Modi meets Putin as India walks US-Russia tightrope
Indian PM travels to Sochi to hold talks with Russia’s Putin, with geopolitical issues on the agenda of summit
https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/modi-meets-putin-india-walks-russia-tightrope-180521110837994.html
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-putin-hold-intense-talks-on-bilateral-global-issues-to-cement-special-privileged-strategic-ties-2617431
http://www.atimes.com/article/modi-putin-tete-a-tete-in-sochi-to-mend-ties/
11 MAY 2018
Pokhran II after 20 years: India’s nuclear deterrence has been reasonably successful in stabilising a volatile South Asia
China’s Xi and India’s Modi agree to reduce border tensions
The Chinese and Indian leaders have spent two days in the central Chinese city of Wuhan for discussions on how to mend ties strained when troops from both sides came eyeball-to-eyeball in the disputed Doklam area
https://www.trtworld.com/asia/china-s-xi-and-india-s-modi-agree-to-reduce-border-tensions-17059
http://www.dw.com/en/india-china-agree-to-keep-border-peace-at-milestone-informal-summit/a-43575664
http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2143859/china-india-agree-improve-military-communication-border
27 APRIL 2018
China, India held summit to repair strained ties
President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met in central China Friday as they seek to repair ties that were marred by a border dispute last year
http://www.presstv.com/Detail/2018/04/27/559824/China-India-Summit
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-on-day-1-modi-xi-hold-extensive-and-fruitful-talks-in-informal-summit-2609400
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/live-updates-in-wuhan-narendra-modi-tells-xi-jinping-new-india-new-era-will-help-in-world-progress-1221384-2018-04-27
2 APRIL 2018
Rising tiger? India’s expanding security sphere
AS INDIA rises as a major power its security sphere is expanding beyond South Asia. But it still remains uncertain about the extent and shape of its future security role
https://asiancorrespondent.com/2018/04/rising-tiger-indias-expanding-security-sphere/#qUWlbwTlSStS7m3F.97
23 MARCH 2018
India’s Blighted Defense Forces
22 MARCH 2018
India to open 18 diplomatic missions in Africa to enhance cooperation
Most of the new diplomatic missions will be in the western part of Africa, while China has operationalized its first ever overseas military base in Djibouti
https://sputniknews.com/asia/201803221062792557-india-open-diplomatic-missions-africa/
10 MARCH 2018
Amid row over Rafale deal, India, France sign strategic defence pact on use of each other’s military bases
French President Emmanuel Macron has said defence ties with India had reached a new high after the two nations signed a key security accord for the Indian Ocean to counter China’s growing influence in the region
http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/mar/10/amid-row-over-rafale-deal-india-france-sign-strategic-defence-pact-on-use-of-each-others-military-1785092.html
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/emmanuel-macron-india-visit-india-france-release-joint-statement-on-french-presidents-state-visit-1822217
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/india-france-security-accord-has-china-in-mind-10032788
3 MARCH 2018
India, Vietnam to enhance cooperation in defence production: PM Narendra Modi
“We have decided that we will enhance cooperation in defence production and explore opportunities in transfer of technology. We will jointly work for an open, independent and prosperous Indo Pacific area where sovereignty and international law is respected,” he said
http://www.freepressjournal.in/india/india-vietnam-to-enhance-cooperation-in-defence-production-pm-narendra-modi/1231130
http://en.qdnd.vn/foreign-affairs/bilateral-relations/president-tran-dai-quang-holds-talks-with-indian-pm-narendra-modi-490440
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-vietnam-vow-to-cooperate-on-region-s-security-1.2182037
21 FEBRUARY 2018
Canada’s PM Trudeau denies support for Sikh separatists
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reaffirmed Canada’s support for “a united India” in a meeting with an Indian official who has accused the Canadian leader of supporting Sikh separatists
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/02/canada-pm-trudeau-denies-support-sikh-separatists-180221142549995.html
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/canada-does-not-back-sikh-separatists-trudeau-tells-india-minister-1.2177338
20 FEBRUARY 2018
India successfully test-fires nuclear-capable ballistic missile
India says it has successfully tested a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads with a range of 2,000 kilometers
http://www.presstv.com/Detail/2018/02/20/553017/India-test-fire
http://www.livemint.com/Science/b3k6C9rvy8dJcgw7C7YXgO/India-test-fires-medium-range-nuclear-capable-AgniII-missil.html
18 FEBRUARY 2018
As China concerns grow, India looks to build military presence in Seychelles
The Sechelles is not typically associated with geopolitics. But beyond the white sandy beaches and tropical jungles, the tiny archipelago nation is emerging as a key player in India’s battle to counter growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean
https://edition.cnn.com/2018/02/18/asia/india-military-base-seychelles-intl/index.html
17 FEBRUARY 2018
Iran, India finalize deal over control of Chabahar port
Iran has awarded a much-awaited agreement to India over the management of part of its strategic Chabahar port – a move that could enable India to dodge Pakistan and reach markets in Afghanistan, Central Asia and beyond
http://www.presstv.com/Detail/2018/02/17/552691/Iran-India-finalize-deal-over-control-of-Chabahar-port
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-to-get-control-of-key-port-in-iran-for-18-months/articleshow/62963561.cms
http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/india-and-iran-ink-nine-pacts-including-dta-visa-liberalisation-118021700347_1.html
10 FEBRUARY 2018
Modi becomes first Indian PM to visit the occupied West Bank
Narendra Modi on Saturday became the first Indian prime minister to visit the occupied West Bank, where he held talks with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas as part of a Middle East tour
http://www.scmp.com/news/world/middle-east/article/2132872/modi-becomes-first-indian-pm-visit-occupied-west-bank
http://www.euronews.com/2018/02/10/india-s-modi-on-historic-west-bank-visit
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-hopes-to-see-independent-palestine-soon-prez-mahmoud-abbas-says-we-rely-on-india-s-role-for-peace-2583304
Indian PM Narendra Modi arrives in Abu Dhabi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abu Dhabi for a two-day official visit on Saturday evening
http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/government/indian-pm-narendra-modi-arrives-in-abu-dhabi-1.2171265
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-arrives-in-abu-dhabi-received-by-crown-prince-members-of-the-royal-family-2583355
1 FEBRUARY 2018
India’s military modernisation programme bogged down by bureaucrats, dysfunctional procurement processes
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held steady against geopolitical rivals, including with China in a Himalayan face-off last year, his administration hasn’t fixed a broken defence procurement system in the world’s largest arms importer
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/indias-military-modernisation-programme-bogged-down-by-bureaucrats-dysfunctional
18 JANUARY 2018
India tests-fires Agni-V, nuclear-capable most advanced ICBM
The nuclear-capable Agni-V is believed to be India’s most advanced ICBM. It was fired Thursday morning India time from Abdul Kalam island off the coast of the eastern state of Odisha, the ministry said in a tweet
http://edition.cnn.com/2018/01/18/asia/india-icbm-tests/index.html
http://www.presstv.com/Detail/2018/01/18/549359/India-Agni5-nuclearcapable-ICBM-Pakistan-China
14 JANUARY 2018
Benjamin Netanyahu begins landmark tour, calls India a global power
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in New Delhi on Sunday on a landmark visit to India that will see emphasis given to forging technology and innovation partnerships to elevate ties as the two countries mark 25 years of diplomatic relations
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/WtBEZkXlxxl5i5HhKKXKnM/Narendra-Modi-receives-Israel-PM-Benjamin-Netanyahu-at-airpo.html
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/WtBEZkXlxxl5i5HhKKXKnM/Narendra-Modi-receives-Israel-PM-Benjamin-Netanyahu-at-airpo.html
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/one-un-vote-cant-change-our-relations-netanyahu/article22441554.ece?homepage=true
2 JANUARY 2018
Doklam and the India-US Strategic Relationship A widely debated aspect of the Doklam standoff was the US’ apparent lack of support for India during the impasse. Considering the alleged strengthened ties between both countries and their 2015 Joint Strategic Vision for the region, analysts expected Washington to firmly back New Delhi |
5 DECEMBER 2017
Can India challenge China with new Iranian Chabahar Port?
A new India-sponsored port in southeastern Iran has the potential to flood Central Asia and Afghanistan with Indian goods. Pakistan is watching with concern and China may have a new economic rival in the region
http://www.dw.com/en/can-india-challenge-china-with-new-iranian-chabahar-port/a-41659083
3 DECEMBER 2017
India alarmed by China’s plan to deploy warships in Gwadar
The proposed deployment of Chinese warships at the Gwadar port in Pakistan has raised serious concerns in New Delhi, reported Russian website Sputnik
http://nation.com.pk/03-Dec-2017/india-alarmed-by-china-s-plan-to-deploy-warships-in-gwadar
5 NOVEMBER 2017
Opinion: India is not about to play the US game of rivalry with China
In the run-up to Tillerson’s visit to India, the US media made no secret about the trip’s purpose. The view was that as China’s clout in the Asia-Pacific region rose, the US was wooing India into a closer embrace
http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2118381/opinion-india-not-about-play-us-game-rivalry-china
21 OCTOBER 2017
US woos India into 100-year alliance against China
Even as the countdown begins for US President Donald Trump’s highly anticipated state visit to China, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is heading to India next week in a delicate geopolitical balancing act
http://www.atimes.com/article/us-woos-india-100-year-alliance-china/
13 OCTOBER 2017
China-India relations: Millennia of peaceful coexistence meet modern day geopolitical interests
The China-India dispute over the Doklam plateau and the two states’ subsequent fence-mending at the BRICS summit have brought into focus what will be one of the most important relationships in the future world order
https://www.brookings.edu/blog/order-from-chaos/2017/10/13/china-india-relations-millennia-of-peaceful-coexistence-meet-modern-day-geopolitical-interests/
21 SEPTEMBER 2017
Modi–Abe love affair drives India and Japan closer
As demonstrated by the September summit between Shinzo Abe and Narendra Modi, the strengthening of Japan–India ties is continuing apace
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2017/09/21/modi-abe-love-affair-drives-india-and-japan-closer/
19 JULY 2017
India’s U-Turn on North Korea Policy
India’s new moves to isolate North Korea will reverberate across East Asia
http://thediplomat.com/2017/07/indias-u-turn-on-north-korea-policy/
11 JULY 2017
India-Myanmar: Fast-tracking the Eastward Push
Bilateral relations between India and Myanmar have historically been uneven and contingent on specific leadership approaches on both sides. Under India’s incumbent Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, this complex relationship has seen renewed commitment within the broader agenda of “Act East” – a timely upgradation of India’s post-Cold War tilt towards southeast Asia and beyond
http://www.ipcs.org/article/india/india-myanmar-fast-tracking-the-eastward-push-5323.html
7 JULY 2017
China’s Xi Jinping and India’s Narendra Modi meet on G20 sidelines amid simmering border tensions
President Xi Jinping met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Hamburg on Friday, at a time of heightened tensions between the two countries over the worst border dispute in years
http://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy-defence/article/2101742/chinas-xi-jinping-and-indias-narendra-modi-meet-g20
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/g20-summit-amid-stand-off-pm-modi-meets-xi-jinping-in-hamburg-discusses-range-of-issues-brics-4740706/
India, Israel Ink Deal for Air Defense System, Radars, UAVs Worth $4.3 Bln
Indian companies have signed 12 strategic agreements ranging from air defense systems, radars, anti-ship missiles to medium altitude long endurance UAVs in India under technology transfer worth $4.3 billion during the first formal meeting of India-Israel CEOs forum in Tel Aviv
https://sputniknews.com/military/201707071055317827-india-israel-air-defense-system/
4 JULY 2017
Narendra Modi on Tuesday became the first-ever Indian Prime Minister to step on Israeli soil, undertaking a ‘ground breaking’ visit
It’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 66th visit abroad in three years. But it’s a historic first by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel. Less than 11 years after Narendra Modi visited Israel as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2006, Modi arrived at the Ben Gurion International Airport, to a grand official ceremony and warm embrace by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
http://zeenews.india.com/india/israel-extends-extraordinary-welcome-to-pm-narendra-modi-on-his-ground-breaking-visit-benjamin-netanyahu-says-we-love-india-2021210.html
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/modi-in-israel-pm-begins-groundbreaking-visit-netanyahu-says-historic-4735601/
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/modi-visit-holds-special-meaning-for-indian-jews-in-israel-1.2053280
http://www.newindianexpress.com/opinions/2017/jul/05/modifying-indias-israel-policy-1624455–1.html
27 JUNE 2017
Trump and Modi – American and Indian leaders meet in Washington
US President Donald Trump declared Monday that ties between Washington and New Delhi had “never been stronger” after holding his first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/melania-trump-to-join-president-donald-trump-in-welcoming-pm-narendra-modi-at-white-house-10-facts-1717233
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/full-text-pm-modi-us-president-donald-trump-issue-joint-statement-4723678/
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/analysis-of-the-indo-us-joint-statement-tougher-on-pakistan-softer-on-china-on-course-for-strategic-partnership/article19153997.ece?homepage=true
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6ndq1Cz6Fc
24 JUNE 2017
Trump approves $2B sale of drones to India ahead of meeting
The Trump administration has authorized the sale of unarmed surveillance drones to India, the manufacturer said Friday, as the two nations’ leaders prepare for their first face-to-face meeting
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/trump-admin-oks-drone-sale-to-india-manufacturer-says/2017/06/23/890fcc18-5878-11e7-840b-512026319da7_story.html?utm_term=.2bc056a2ebd2
http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/as-modi-prepares-for-trump-meeting-us-expected-to-ok-india-drone-purchase-117062300284_1.html
http://www.scmp.com/news/asia/diplomacy/article/2099796/china-and-pakistan-watching-closely-us-gives-india-green-light
21 JUNE 2017
India and the Koreas: Promises and Follow-ups
The erstwhile Look East Policy (LEP) was renamed to Act East Policy (AEP), Apart from more economic and political exchanges, the new policy sought to invoke more strategic and deep-rooted cultural connections of India with these countries. It was expected that the Korean peninsula would also receive more attention
http://www.ipcs.org/article/india-the-world/india-and-the-koreas-promises-and-follow-ups-5304.html
14 JUNE 2017
India and the Fight Against Islamic State
As India confronts the threat within its borders, could it find common ground with the Trump administration?http://thediplomat.com/2017/06/india-and-the-fight-against-islamic-state/
12 JUNE 2017
India deploys warship to monitor marine traffic in Malacca Strait
The Indian Navy has deployed a warship near the Strait of Malacca on a permanent basis to monitor the world’s busiest shipping route from its western edge. The ship was deployed last week and will remain in international waters for a longer period to patrol the area
https://sputniknews.com/asia/201706121054543979-india-warship-malacca/
9 JUNE 2017
India, Pakistan join SCO, China and Russia-led security bloc
Asian rivals India and Pakistan on Friday formally joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a security bloc spearheaded by China and Russia, despite bilateral tensions bubbling over Kashmir
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/209608-India-Pakistan-join-China-and-Russia-led-security-bloc
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20170610_01/
http://www.atimes.com/article/bigger-shanghai-cooperation-organization-may-game-changer/
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/what-does-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-membership-mean-for-india/article18825646.ece
5 JUNE 2017
India fears Chinese encirclement, citing ‘overwhelming’ Sino presence in South Asia
India fears a so-called ‘string of pearls’ – Chinese ports – essentially surrounding it, with one ruling party figure telling the ABC the Chinese presence is “overwhelming”
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/international/2017-06-05/india-fears-chinese-encirclement-citing-overwhelming-sino-presence-in-south-asia/1676616
2 JUNE 2017
Indian army successfully test fires nuclear capable ballistic missile Prithvi-II off Odisha coast
India on Friday successfully test-fired the land version of the short range surface–to–surface ballistic missile Prithvi-II from a defence base off Odisha coast
http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2017/jun/02/indian-army-successfully-test-fires-nuclear-capable-ballistic-missile-prithvi-ii-off-odisha-coast-1612026.html
26 MAY 2017
Can India be a game changer in Afghanistan?
At best, India can be a useful ally to the Afghan government. It cannot and does not pretend to be a substitute for the United States. Its best chance for influencing Afghanistan’s trajectory lies in a close partnership with Washington
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2017/05/26/can-india-be-a-game-changer-in-afghanistan/
24 MAY 2017
Indian cabinet approves policy for strategic partnerships in defence
India on Wednesday cleared a long-awaited policy to boost local defence manufacturing by effectively picking industry champions that would tie up with foreign players and make high-tech defence equipment, Defence Minister Arun Jaitley said
http://news.trust.org/item/20170524131341-k4gi9/
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/strategic-partnership-model-for-defence-procurements-comes-into-effect/article18572157.ece?homepage=true
http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/defence-acquisition-council-takes-the-right-decision/
11 MAY 2017
Modi in Sri Lanka as Chinese influence rises
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads to Sri Lanka on Thursday on a charm offensive as New Delhi seeks to reassert its influence on the island amid signs of a Chinese comeback
http://www.asiaone.com/asia/modi-heads-sri-lanka-chinese-influence-rises
http://www.scmp.com/news/asia/diplomacy/article/2093985/indias-modi-attempts-woo-back-sri-lanka-china-pushes-belt-and
17 APRIL 2017
India’s Modi wants to lift the curtain on ties with Israel
Ever since India established diplomatic ties with Israel 25 years ago, not a single Indian premier has visited the Jewish state. PM Narendra Modi wants to change it, highlighting the intensifying bilateral partnership
http://www.dw.com/en/indias-modi-wants-to-lift-the-curtain-on-ties-with-israel/a-38455349
15 APRIL 2017
Trump and the future of Indo–US relations
Less than three months into Donald Trump’s term as President, those watching in India are intensely anticipating how bilateral relations will proceed with the United States
http://www.eastasiaforum.org/2017/04/15/trump-and-the-future-of-indo-us-relations/
30 MARCH 2017
Indian State Elections’ Impact on Modi’s Neighborhood Policy
One thing which the most ardent Modi critics would not deny is that he is a risk taker and does not cave in easily. The question on many people’s minds is whether or not he will utilize his political capital for reorienting ties with countries in the neighborhood, especially Pakistan
http://ippreview.com/index.php/Home/Blog/single/id/387.html
27 FEBRUARY 2017
Trump’s Foreign Policy: How Will It Impact India?
India’s attention has been on changes introduced by the administration of Donald Trump. They include restrictions on H1-B visas, as well as the US’ attempt to get the UN to impose a ban on Masood Azhar, the head of Jaish-E-Mohammed. The travel ban imposed on seven Muslim-majority countries, as well as Trump’s approach towards China and Japan are also being watched closely in India
http://ippreview.com/index.php/Home/Blog/single/id/360.html
15 FEBRUARY 2017
Trump administration to expand India-US military-strategic alliance
The Trump administration has served notice that it intends to expand the Indo-US military strategic alliance. This is not surprising, but nonetheless highly significant
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2017/02/15/inus-f15.html
25 JANUARY 2017
Trump invites ‘true friend’ Modi in phone conversation
U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation on Tuesday in which the two leaders spoke of the close ties between the two countries
http://www.asiapacificstar.com/index.php/sid/251196607
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/trump-may-find-kindred-spirit-in-indias-modi-another-tough-talking-nationalist/2017/01/25/9a97641e-11eb-4c9f-9b38-a5deab2681d7_story.html?utm_term=.d39ba2c24152
26 DECEMBER 2016
India successfully test fires Agni-5 nuclear capable missile
India on Monday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed intercontinental surface-to-surface nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-V from the Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast in Balasore district
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-test-fires-nuclear-capable-agni-v-missile-1.1952048
http://zeenews.india.com/news/videos/top-stories/india-successfully-test-fires-nuclear-capable-agni-v_1961837.html
16 DECEMBER 2016
China upset as Dalai Lama meets Indian president
China expressed dissatisfaction on Friday after exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama met Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, saying it hoped India would recognise the Nobel Peace Prize winning monk as a separatist in religious guise
http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/china-upset-dalai-lama-meets-indian-president
12 DECEMBER 2016
India, Indonesia to promote maritime security cooperation
Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to strengthen their countries’ maritime security cooperation
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20161213_01/
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/indonesia-india-pledge-closer-maritime-ties
8 NOVEMBER 2016
Reviving the India-Indonesia Relationship
Ties with Indonesia are an under-appreciated part of India’s “Act East” Policy
http://thediplomat.com/2016/11/reviving-the-india-indonesia-relationship/
4 NOVEMBER 2016
The Indo-Russian air defense entente a blow to China
Among other arrangements included in the arms deal sealed in Goa, Moscow will equip Delhi with five S-400 Triumph air defense systems at a cost of US$5 billion. Many in India view this acquisition as a game-changer in the military equation of South Asia
http://www.atimes.com/indo-russian-air-defense-entente-blow-china/
28 OCTOBER 2016
China warns India against Dalai Lama Arunachal visit
China on Friday warned India that bilateral ties may suffer “damage” and affect peace and stability of border areas if it allows Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama to visit Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing claims is part of southern Tibet
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/dalai-s-visit-to-arunachal-may-damage-ties-china-warns-india-1.1920289
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/nation/2016-10/28/content_15517874.html
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/10/china-warns-india-dalai-lama-border-visit-161028134210398.html
19 OCTOBER 2016
India and Myanmar agree to closely coordinate with each other on border security while Prime Minister Modi offers economic support
India and Myanmar on Wednesday agreed to closely coordinate with each other on border security while Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to help develop Myanmar
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-myanmar-to-closely-coordinate-on-border-security-1.1915392
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20161019_36/
15 OCTOBER 2016
India deepens military ties with Russia
India and Russia deepened economic and military cooperation, while New Delhi pressed its concerns about cross-border terrorism at a summit of the BRICS countries in the western Indian city of Goa
http://www.voanews.com/a/brics-summit/3552704.html
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/india-russia-set-up-joint-venture-to-build-helicopters-in-india
http://www.atimes.com/article/india-buy-russian-surface-air-missile-defence-system/
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indiarussia-s400-missiles-deal/article9224802.ece?homepage=true
11 OCTOBER 2016
India continues to boost military ties with China
India continues to slowly but steadily build military-to-military+ ties with China, even as it keeps its armed forces on high operational readiness along the western front with Pakistan for any contingency after the cross-border surgical strikes of September 29
http://www.worldaffairsjournal.org/content/india-builds-military-ties-china
4 OCTOBER 2016
PM Lee meets Modi, says Singapore and India committed to deepening ties
Singapore and India are committed to deepening their bilateral relationship and are keen to work together in several areas such as developing smart cities and skills training, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong after meeting with his India counterpart Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Oct 4)
http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/pm-lee-meets-modi-says-singapore-and-india-committed-to-deepening-ties
27 SEPTEMBER 2016
India’s Modi scraps planned visit to Pakistan for SAARC summit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend a regional summit of South Asian leaders in Pakistan in November because of increasing cross-border attacks in the region, the foreign ministry said on Tuesday
http://atimes.com/2016/09/two-guides-from-muzaffarabad-helped-uri-attackers-india-tells-pakistan/
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/pm-narendra-modi-to-skip-saarc-summit-in-islamabad-pakistan-3053240/
23 SEPTEMBER 2016
India, France ink €7.87 billion agreement for 36 Rafales
India and France on Friday concluded an Inter-Governmental Agreement for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of €7.87 billion, the first fighter aircraft deal since the purchase of Sukhois from Russia in the late 90’s.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-france-conclude-rafale-deal/article9140011.ece?homepage=true
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20160923_35/
16 SEPTEMBER 2016
India, Nepal Restore Friendlier Ties
India and Nepal have put diplomatic relations, that had frayed in the past year, back on track during a visit to New Delhi by Nepal’s new prime minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda
http://www.voanews.com/a/india-nepal-restore-friendlier-ties/3512379.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-Nepal-commit-not-to-allow-their-territory-to-be-used-against-each-other/articleshow/54370831.cms
http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/news/2016-09-16/pm-dahal-indian-pm-modi-meet-underway.html
10 SEPTEMBER 2016
Why India, Vietnam upgraded their ties
Though it was short – and came relatively late – Narendra Modi’s recent one-day stopover in Hanoi, the first official trip to Vietnam by an Indian prime minister since Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 2001 visit, was momentous as it marked a new shift in India-Vietnam relations
http://atimes.com/2016/09/why-india-vietnam-upgraded-their-ties/
30 AUGUST 2016
Eye on China: the new defence pact that allows the US to use India’s land, air and naval bases
The United States and India have signed an agreement to allow the use of each other’s land, air and naval bases for repair and resupply, a step toward building defence ties as they seek to counter the growing maritime assertiveness of China
http://www.scmp.com/news/asia/diplomacy/article/2011217/eye-china-new-defence-pact-allows-us-use-indias-land-air-and
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-and-US-in-military-hug-will-share-logistics-bases/articleshow/53937467.cms
http://www.thestatesman.com/news/world/china-has-nothing-to-fear-from-indo-us-defence-pact-kirby/162560.html
29 AUGUST 2016
India, Myanmar join hands to fight border insurgency
India and Myanmar have agreed to continue efforts to combat insurgent activities in the border areas and infuse new energy into a much- delayed highway project during Myanmar President U Htin Kyaw’s visit to India.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/india-myanmar-join-hands-to-fight-border-insurgency
http://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/together-we-fight-terror-1277701
25 AUGUST 2016
Arms Race Threatened on India-China border
New Delhi’s decision to deploy the BrahMos supersonic missile – the world’s fastest anti-ship cruise missile, which can fly at 2.8 times the speed of sound – in the disputed northeast state of Arunachal, has left its rival and neighbor fuming as big-power tensions flare between China and India
http://www.asiasentinel.com/politics/arms-race-threaten-india-china-border/
19 AUGUST 2016
Why India’s South China Sea stand matters
During his visit to New Delhi last week, Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, held wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. The agenda for discussion is said to have included a number of sticky bilateral issues
http://www.idsa.in/idsacomments/why-india-south-china-sea-stand-matters_asingh_190816
15 AUGUST 2016
Modi raps Pakistan in national address
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took aim at supporters of “terrorism” in his Independence Day speech, ratcheting up criticism of Pakistan while avoiding direct mention of month-long protests in Indian-ruled Kashmir
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/modi-raps-pakistan-in-national-address
http://www.dw.com/en/indian-pm-modis-balochistan-comments-upset-pakistan/a-19475682
12 AUGUST 2016
China Maintains Quiet Pressure on India
China continued to exert quiet but sustained pressures on India on the South China Sea issue. Beijing wants New Delhi to endorse its position on UN the International Tribunal award on the South China Sea under the United Nations Convention on Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS)
http://www.southasiaanalysis.org/node/2039
29 JULY 2016
Confirmed: India Signs $1 Billion Contract for 4 New Sub-Hunter Planes
On July 27, India’s Ministry of Defense signed a $1 billion deal with U.S. aircraft maker Boeing for the purchase of four additional Poseidon 8I Neptune advanced maritime patrol/anti-submarine warfare aircraft, according to Indian media reports
http://thediplomat.com/2016/07/confirmed-india-signs-1-billion-contract-for-4-new-sub-hunter-planes/
17 JULY 2016
India wades into South China Sea dispute
Stating that secure sea routes in the Asia-Pacific region are essential to the Indian economy, the author notes, “A majority of our global trade [about 55%] flows across the Straits of Malacca and beyond.”
http://asia.nikkei.com/Politics-Economy/International-Relations/India-wades-into-South-China-Sea-dispute?page=2
7 JULY 2016
Indian leader on African tour
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is touring Mozambique, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania. His huge country is looking for raw materials and allies in its quest for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council
http://www.dw.com/en/indian-leader-on-african-tour/a-19385649
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/indias-modi-seeks-to-drum-up-business-in-african-tour
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/india/india-s-modi-starts-african-tour-to-drum-up-business-1.1858883
1 JULY 2016
Indian Air Force finally inducts home-grown fighter jet Tejas
India’s first locally-built combat aircraft officially took to the skies on Friday, 33 years after it was cleared for development, marking a long-held goal of cutting expensive imports to build a domestic defence-industrial base
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/asia/2016-07/01/content_15456919.html
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-iaf-finally-inducts-home-grown-fighter-jet-tejas-pm-modi-says-moment-of-unparalleled-pride-2230160
http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/tejas-light-combat-aircraft-indigenous-india-iaf-hf-24-2887950/
27 JUNE 2016
India joins Missile Technology Control Regime
In a boost to its non-proliferation credentials, India on Monday joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) at a ceremony in South Block, attended by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and diplomats from the Netherlands, France and Luxembourg missions
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/asia/2016-06/27/content_15454736.html
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-to-become-full-member-of-mtcr-today/article8778729.ece?w=alauto
http://www.asiapacificstar.com/index.php/sid/245348775
25 JUNE 2016
Pakistan and India move closer to SCO
The six-member Shanghai Cooperation Organization approved memorandums on Friday to pave the way for India and Pakistan to join the organization
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/nation/2016-06/25/content_15454167.html
24 JUNE 2016
Examining India’s unsuccessful NSG bid
Despite India’s fervent push for admission into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the country remains outside the elite body that regulates nuclear trade worldwide – for now. DW examines the reasons behind this
http://www.dw.com/en/examining-indias-unsuccessful-nsg-bid/a-19353253
21 JUNE 2016
India’s embarrassing North Korean connection
A report states that one of the Indian courses to North Koreans offered instructions that “could be directly relevant” to “designing and testing a launch vehicle using ballistic missile technology, such as those on launch vehicles, attitude control, and telemetry, tracking, command and data-handling systems”
http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2016/06/india-embarrassing-north-korean-connection-160620195559208.html
12 JUNE 2016
Beijing is seen as leading opposition to the US move to include India in the 48-nation Nuclear Suppliers Group
China said on Sunday that more talks were needed to build a consensus on which countries can join the main group controlling access to sensitive nuclear technology, after a push by the United States to include India
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/china/china-says-more-talks-needed-to-build-consensus-on-nuclear-export-club-1.1844433
8 JUNE 2016
Indian PM addresses US Congress, calls America ‘indispensable partner’, says terror is ‘incubated’ in India’s neighbourhood
Addressing a joint sitting of US Congress, he also described America as an ‘indispensable partner’ and stated that a strong India is in the US’ strategic interest.
http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pm-addresses-us-congress-calls-america-indispensable-partner-says-terror-is-incubated-in-india-s-neighbourhood_1893236.html
http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pm-modis-address-to-the-joint-sitting-of-us-congress-full-text_1893207.html
7 JUNE 2016
‘US committed to help India build its defence capabilities’
The US is “committed” to help India build its defence capabilities until it can be the “net provider of security” in the Asia-Pacific region, a senior Obama administration official has said.
http://www.thestatesman.com/news/world/-us-committed-to-help-india-build-its-defence-capabilities/146902.html
23 MAY 2016
India and Iran sign ‘historic’ Chabahar port deal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that India will build and operate a key Iranian port after his talks with President Hassan Rouhani
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-36356163
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-to-develop-irans-chahbahar-port/article8637558.ece?homepage=true
http://nation.com.pk/international/23-May-2016/india-to-boost-iran-port-project-links-to-afghanistan
http://www.asiatimes.com.au/trilateral-transport-transit-agreement-between-iran-india-afghanistan/
12 MAY 2016
‘Doval Doctrine’ can’t help India to make peace with neighbors
Ajit Kumar Doval, National Security Advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is the second most important official in the government of India. His close ties with Prime Minister Modi reminds one of BN Mullik who, like him, was IB chief (1950-64), had close relationship with then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and influenced his key decisions on Kashmir, Pakistan and China. But Doval is going a few steps ahead of him with his hard line on Kashmir, Pakistan and China. The ‘doctrine’ named after him and expounded by him in two lectures delivered in 2014 and 2015 is analysed here in the light of the Pathankot airbase Attack
http://atimes.com/2016/05/doval-doctrine-cant-help-india-to-make-peace-with-neighbors/
29 APRIL 2016
India’s focus should be peace with China, not US military ties linked to sea row
The US has reason to be happy that India has agreed to militarily cooperate against China in the South China Sea region. However, it is not clear how India stands to benefit from the US’ hostile actions against China in a region which is not of direct strategic interest to India
http://atimes.com/2016/04/indias-focus-should-be-peace-with-china-not-us-military-ties-linked-to-sea-row/
26 APRIL 2016
India, Pakistan diplomats meet after lengthy hiatus
India on Tuesday asked Pakistan to rein in terrorist groups operating from its soil and targeting India, expressing dissatisfaction with action taken so far against suspects of an attack on an Indian air force base in January.
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/asia/2016-04/26/content_15423148.html
26 APRIL 2016
India, Pakistan diplomats meet after lengthy hiatus
India on Tuesday asked Pakistan to rein in terrorist groups operating from its soil and targeting India, expressing dissatisfaction with action taken so far against suspects of an attack on an Indian air force base in January.
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/asia/2016-04/26/content_15423148.html
20 APRIL 2016
After Modi visit, Saudi Arabia should join hands with India to fight terror
Over the past 15 years, the India-Saudi Arabia relationship has deepened significantly, especially on economic issues. However, it is with regard to counter-terrorism co-operation that their bilateral relations have witnessed the most remarkable changes.
http://atimes.com/2016/04/after-modi-visit-saudi-arabia-should-join-hands-with-india-to-fight-terror/
12 APRIL 2016
India, US agree to share military logistics; use each other’s land, air and naval bases
India and the United States have agreed in principle to share military logistics, the countries’ defence ministers said on Tuesday, as both sides seek to counter the growing maritime assertiveness of China. Washington has for years urged New Delhi to sign a Logistics Support Agreement that allows the two militaries to use each other’s land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-india-us-agree-to-share-military-logistics-use-each-other-s-land-air-and-naval-bases-2201385
http://www.voanews.com/content/us-india-military-logistics-agreement-still-not-finalized/3282252.html
21 MARCH 2016
India and Japan get closer as China flexes its muscles
This recalibration of their national interests has brought countries such as Japan and India closer in ways like never before. Recently, in a move that is bound to raise quite a few eyebrows in Beijing, Japan and India began discussing the modalities for cooperation to set up a 15MW diesel power plant in India’s Andaman and Nicobar islands in the Bay of Bengal
http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2016/03/india-japan-closer-china-flexes-muscles-160320134401362.html
10 MARCH 2016
Big India-Bangladesh power deal dims China’s shine in South Asia
India’s bagging of the power project marks an important victory for India in the Sino-Indian contest for influence in Bangladesh. This is likely to be quietly applauded by the United States, Japan and other countries that are concerned over China’s mounting economic and military presence in Indian Ocean littorals
http://atimes.com/2016/03/big-india-bangladesh-power-deal-dims-chinas-shine-in-south-asia/
21 FEBRUARY 2016
Nepal, India sign agreements for partnership
The agreements include a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on utilisation of India’s assistance for post-quake reconstruction in Nepal, a deal on strengthening road infrastructure in southern plains of Nepal and an accord on rail transport for trading with Bangladesh, among others.
http://www.chinadailyasia.com/asia/2016-02/21/content_15387963.html
http://www.chinapost.com.tw/asia/regional-news/2016/02/22/458903/India-pledges.htm
11 FEBRUARY 2016
India to build satellite tracking station in Vietnam that offers eye on China
India will set up a satellite tracking and imaging center in southern Vietnam that will give Hanoi access to pictures from Indian earth observation satellites that cover the region, including China and the South China Sea, Indian officials said
http://apdf-magazine.com/india-to-build-satellite-tracking-station-in-vietnam-that-offers-eye-on-china/
2 FEBRUARY 2016
India’s Military Might: The Real Truth
The nation invests very heavily in its armed forces who are mindful of the responsibilities; but the apathy of the government functionaries in authority is bewildering. So rampant is the bureaucratic foot-dragging in the garb of due vetting, that the formalisation of the contract for procurement of 36 Rafale fighters is still “work in progress”. With this kind of a system of higher defence management in our country, would our enemies have any worries? Little wonder that our deterrence has bee ..
http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/indias-military-might-the-real-truth/
31 JANUARY 2016
India’s ties with Asean set to scale new frontiers
India’s Act East policy will be in focus during the visit of Vice-President Hamid Ansari to Thailand and Brunei (February 1-5). The visit is expected to deepen and diversify India’s economic and strategic ties with the two ASEAN countries
http://www.indiawrites.org/diplomacy/indias-ties-with-asean-set-to-scale-new-frontiers-rajiv-bhatia/
25 JANUARY 2016
India, France sign deal on purchase of Rafale jets
India and France inked an inter-governmental agreement (IGA) on Monday on the sale of 36 French fighter jets, Rafale, but they were unable to sign the final deal due to some “financial” aspects, which are expected to be sorted out in a “couple of days”
http://atimes.com/2016/01/india-france-sign-deal-on-purchase-of-rafale-jets/
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-rafale-deal-india-france-ink-mou-to-sort-out-financial-aspects-2170312
24 JANUARY 2016
India, France United In Fight Against Enemies Of Humanity, Says PM Modi: 10 Developments
French President Francois Hollande, who will be chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebration, arrived today for a three-day visit that he said was aimed at promoting strategic ties and implement decisions taken during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France
http://www.ndtv.com/cheat-sheet/fortress-chandigarh-to-welcome-french-president-as-he-begins-india-visit-10-developments-1269397?utm_source=Offstumped&utm_medium=Offstumped&utm_term=Offstumped&utm_campaign=Offstumped
Why is French President Hollande in India?
http://www.english.rfi.fr/asia-pacific/20160124-why-french-president-hollande-india
16 JANUARY 2016
Modi’s spluttering China policies
The prognosis used to be that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, geo-economics will play a central part in driving the Sino-Indian relationship. China needs the big Indian market, while India desperately seeks large Chinese investments to build transit and other infrastructure critical to economic revival
http://atimes.com/2016/01/modis-spluttering-china-policies/
12 JANUARY 2016
‘Make in India’ in Defence Sector: An Overview of the Dhirendra Singh Committee Report
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has made public the report of the 10-member Experts Committee that was set up in May 2015 to both evolve a policy framework for facilitating ‘Make in India’ within the purview of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) and streamline the procurement process.
http://www.indiandefencereview.com/spotlights/make-in-india-in-defence-sector-an-overview-of-the-dhirendra-singh-committee-report/0/
9 JANUARY 2016
Pakistani, Indian foreign secretaries to meet on January 15
Amid uncertainty in the wake of the Pathankot terror attack, Pakistan Prime Minister’s Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz said foreign decretary-level talks with India are scheduled to take place on January 15
http://atimes.com/2016/01/act-fast-against-those-behind-pathankot-attack-us-to-pakistan/
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-indo-pak-foreign-secretary-level-talks-are-intact-sartaj-aziz-2164032
http://nation.com.pk/national/09-Jan-2016/pak-indian-secys-to-meet-on-15th-aziz
4 JANUARY 2016
An alliance of Kashmiri militant groups claims the deadly attack on the Indian Air Force’s Pathankot airbase
The United Jihad Council (UJC) said in a statement released that the attack was a message to India that Kashmiri fighters could strike at any sensitive installation across India
http://www.dawn.com/news/1230726/kashmiri-separatist-group-ujc-claims-pathankot-attack
3 JANUARY 2016
Indian consulate attacked in Afghanistan’s Mazar-e-Sharif city
Two terrorists were killed and two others were currently engaged in a fierce gunbattle with Afghan forces on Sunday, Indian Consul General B Sarkar told bdnews24.com
http://bdnews24.com/neighbours/2016/01/03/indian-consulate-attacked-in-afghanistan-s-mazar-e-sharif-city
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/indian-consulate-under/2395768.html
30 DECEMBER 2015
India test-fires long range surface-to-air missile developed with Israel
India successfully test-fired on Wednesday a new long range surface-to-air missile capable of countering aerial threats at extended ranges, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushes to enhance the country’s military capabilities.
http://news.yahoo.com/india-test-fires-long-range-surface-air-missile-095046245.html
http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/successful-conduct-of-lrsam-firing-by-indian-navy/
25 DECEMBER 2015
Indian PM Narendra Modi makes surprise visit to Pakistan; first time in more than a decade
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes a surprise stopover in Pakistan to meet his counterpart, Nawaz Sharif, the first time an Indian premier has visited the rival nation in over a decade
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/international/2015-12-26/indian-pm-narendra-modi-makes-surprise-visit-to-pakistan-first-time-in-more-than-a-decade/1529930
http://www.dw.com/en/india-pm-narendra-modi-leaves-lahore-after-surprise-pakistan-visit/a-18942319
http://www.dawn.com/news/1228735/modi-arrives-in-lahore-on-surprise-visit
China effectively expels French journalist Ursula Gauthier
Officials have refused to renew Beijing-based journalist Ursula Gauthier’s press visa unless she apologizes for a story. Gauthier wrote criticially on China’s “anti-terror” operations against Xinjiang’s Uighur Muslims
http://www.dw.com/en/china-effectively-expels-french-journalist-ursula-gauthier/a-18942525
http://www.france24.com/en/20151225-french-journalist-gauthier-china-apologise
9 DECEMBER 2015
Pakistan and India have agreed to restart comprehensive dialogue process
Pakistan and India have agreed to reinitiate the comprehensive dialogue process, Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said in a joint press conference on Wednesday along with the prime minister’s adviser on foreign affairs, Sartaj Aziz
http://www.dawn.com/news/1225246/pakistan-india-agree-to-restart-comprehensive-dialogue-process
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-india-pakistan-to-resume-dialogue-jammu-and-kashmir-siachen-among-issues-to-be-discussed-2153962
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-full-text-of-joint-statement-made-by-india-and-pakistan-2153928
6 DECEMBER 2015
National Security Advisors of India, Pakistan discuss terrorism, J&K in Bangkok
In a sudden breakthrough, National Security Advisors of India and Pakistan held talks in Bangkok today on a wide gamut of bilateral ties including terrorism and Jammu and Kashmir, and agreed to take forward the “constructive” engagement
http://atimes.com/2015/12/national-security-advisors-of-india-pakistan-discuss-terrorism-jk-in-bangkok/
http://www.dawn.com/news/1224563/pakistan-india-nsas-hold-talks-in-bangkok
24 NOVEMBER 2015
India will help keep sea lanes free: Modi
India will lend its strength to ensure freedom of navigation in regional waters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said yesterday, as he outlined his government’s Act East Policy set against a resurgent domestic economy
http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/india-will-help-keep-sea-lanes-free-modi
16 NOVEMBER 2015
India, China agree to deepen defence ties, maintain peace at LAC
India and China on Monday decided to deepen bilateral defence ties and maintain peace and tranquillity at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) besides strengthening cooperation against terror, including at the international level
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-india-china-agree-to-deepen-defence-ties-maintain-peace-at-lac-2145958
15 NOVEMBER 2015
Nepal PM asks India to end “undeclared blockade”
Nepal’s newly elected prime minister KP Sharma Oli called Sunday on neighbouring India to end its “undeclared blockade” as the nation faces crippling shortage of fuel and supplies
https://sg.news.yahoo.com/nepal-pm-asks-india-end-undeclared-blockade-191556569.html
http://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/unofficial-indian-blockade-has-led-to-humanitarian-crisis-pm/
12 NOVEMBER 2015
Modi visit: ‘Huge moment’ for UK and India
After being banned from entering for 10 years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Kingdom on Thursday with critics denouncing moves against freedom of speech in India since his government took power a year ago. Trade and defence deals worth billions of dollars are signed during Modi’s maiden visit
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-34790212
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-34773767
http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-modi-in-uk-full-text-of-pm-modi-s-speech-at-british-parliament-2144742
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/11984475/Why-is-Indian-prime-minister-Modi-in-London-and-why-are-people-going-to-see-him-at-Wembley-stadium.html
7 NOVEMBER 2015
Indian army successfully test-fires BrahMos land attack missile
Indian Army Saturday (Nov. 7) successfully test fired the nearly 300-km-range BrahMos supersonic land attack cruise missile from Pokhran in Rajasthan
http://atimes.com/2015/11/indian-army-successfully-test-fires-brahmos-land-attack-missile/
1 NOVEMBER 2015
India’s rising power in Africa
In an attempt to boost trade and investment opportunities abroad, India has welcomed heads of state, policymakers, and businessmen from every country in Africa, marking the largest ever India-Africa summit
http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/countingthecost/2015/10/india-rising-power-africa-151031083435780.html
23 OCTOBER 2015
Pakistan’s PM Sharif attacks ‘dangerous’ India in US speech
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today kept up his attack on India and warned that Pakistan will have to take “credible deterrent” measures in the face of Indian “arms build-up” and “dangerous military doctrines”
http://www.sify.com/news/sharif-attacks-dangerous-india-in-us-speech-news-national-pkxvaiegfiabf.html
http://www.dawn.com/news/1215094/nawaz-urges-us-to-side-with-pakistan-against-indian-aggression
http://www.sify.com/news/india-desires-dialogue-but-pak-uses-terrorism-as-instrument-mea-news-national-pkxtcvdjjaidb.html
17 OCTOBER 2015
How China pipped India at Nepal post
As Nepal arrives on the South Asian political landscape as its brand new secular, democratic republic, it is ‘Communist’ China that is in celebratory mood. India is sulking. Beijing is obviously pleased with the election of a communist leader as the prime minister of Nepal, who, by the way, also used to be a ‘Maoist’ at one time in his long chequered political life. The contrast could not be sharper
http://atimes.com/2015/10/how-china-pipped-india-at-nepal-post/
9 OCTOBER 2015
Analysis: Blockade politics in Nepal
India’s unofficial blockade of Nepal – now in its third week – has therefore crippled life in this country of 30 million people. Things could get a lot worse
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/analysis-blockade-politics-nepal-151009193817262.html
11 SEPTEMBER 2015
India and Iran: Challenges and Opportunity
The nuclear deal opens the door for India, but its neighbors have their own plans
http://thediplomat.com/2015/09/india-iran-relations-challenges-and-opportunity/