UAE Deputy PM Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Arrives In Mumbai To Deepen India-UAE Strategic Partnership

UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Mumbai on Monday as part of an official visit aimed at further strengthening the growing bilateral partnership between India and the United Arab Emirates.

Upon his arrival, he was received by Maharashtra Minister for Skill Development Mangalprabhat Lodha, reflecting the importance attached to the high-level engagement by both sides.

Announcing the visit, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal extended a warm welcome to the Emirati leader and highlighted that the visit forms part of the close and regular exchanges that have become a defining feature of India-UAE relations.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership shared by the two countries, which has expanded significantly in recent years across trade, investment, connectivity, energy, technology and people-to-people ties.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also welcomed Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed to Mumbai and expressed his eagerness for discussions during the visit.

The Deputy Prime Minister’s arrival comes shortly after a series of important diplomatic engagements between India and the UAE that have reinforced cooperation at the highest levels.

Last week, Jaishankar met Ras Al Khaimah ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, with discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and reviewing developments in the Gulf region.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar described the interaction as an honour and said he appreciated Sheikh Saud’s perspectives on advancing India-UAE ties and expanding engagement with the wider region.

He also noted that the evolving situation in the Gulf featured in their discussions.

Jaishankar’s meeting with Sheikh Saud took place during his official visit to the UAE from 14 to 16 October. During that visit, the External Affairs Minister participated in the Raisina Middle East Dialogue in Abu Dhabi, where he joined a discussion titled The Continental Corridors: Who Connects the Heartland?

Speaking at the event, Jaishankar observed that global competition has intensified, new strategic chokepoints have emerged and countries are increasingly willing to leverage their advantages in a rapidly changing international environment.

He emphasised that while globalisation cannot be reversed, it must be pursued with greater resilience and trusted partnerships.

The Minister also underlined the growing significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), stating that the initiative is already influencing regional thinking on connectivity and economic integration.

The second edition of Raisina Middle East was organised jointly by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and India’s Ministry of External Affairs in Abu Dhabi from 14 to 15 October. Earlier during the visit, Jaishankar held talks with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which both sides exchanged views on bilateral ties as well as regional and global developments.

Describing the interaction as warm and productive, Jaishankar said the discussions reflected the spirit of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

India and the UAE have developed one of the region’s closest strategic relationships over the past decade, marked by regular high-level exchanges, expanding economic cooperation and collaboration through frameworks such as the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

The two countries also work closely on connectivity initiatives, investment, energy security and regional stability, making the latest visit another important step in sustaining the momentum of the relationship.

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EAM Jaishankar Highlights India’s Push For Stronger Capabilities And Trusted Global Partnerships

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that India is strengthening its domestic capabilities and forging trusted international partnerships as the global landscape undergoes significant changes.

Speaking during a panel discussion titled ‘The Continental Corridors: Who Connects the Heartland?’ at the Raisina Middle East Dialogue in Abu Dhabi, Jaishankar noted that global competition has intensified, new strategic chokepoints have emerged and nations are increasingly willing to leverage their advantages.

He emphasised that globalisation cannot be reversed, but must be managed with greater resilience and adaptability in an increasingly complex international environment.

Jaishankar highlighted the growing significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), stating that the initiative is already influencing regional thinking on connectivity and economic integration.

He reiterated that, amid evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics, India is focused on building its own strengths while cultivating reliable and trusted partnerships across regions.

On the sidelines of the dialogue, Jaishankar met Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili. The two leaders reviewed expanding bilateral ties, particularly in trade, tourism and education, and discussed opportunities to deepen cooperation further.

Their discussions covered collaboration in business, connectivity, culture and people-to-people exchanges, while also addressing current regional developments.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political engagement, expanding economic relations and enhancing cooperation across tourism, education, cultural links and other areas of mutual interest.

Botchorishvili welcomed the growing partnership between the two countries and underscored the shared commitment to broadening cooperation across multiple sectors.

EAM Jaishankar also held talks with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, during which they reviewed bilateral relations and exchanged views on wider international developments.

The discussions reflected India’s continued diplomatic engagement with key partners across the Middle East and beyond, alongside its broader efforts to strengthen connectivity, economic cooperation and strategic partnerships.

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EAM Jaishankar Says India Is A ‘Power In The Middle’, Not A ‘Middle Power’

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has argued that India should not be described as a ‘middle power’, saying the term does not accurately reflect the country's scale, demographic strength and economic potential.

Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi, Jaishankar said India was better understood as a “power in the middle”, highlighting its growing influence in an increasingly multipolar world.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s description of nations that possess the ability to influence and enable others, Jaishankar said such countries should be judged by their capacity to empower rather than by traditional classifications of power.

He said the label ‘middle power’ was uncomfortable for India, given that it is the world's most populous country and has an economy worth around $4 trillion. According to Jaishankar, India also has significant growth opportunities ahead, making the conventional categorisation appear restrictive.

The minister said countries occupying the middle tier of the international system would increasingly pursue independent decision-making. Rather than aligning automatically with major power blocs, they would assess national interests, formulate policies accordingly and develop partnerships on their own terms.

Jaishankar argued that these nations would increasingly create flexible arrangements with one another based on shared interests, practical cooperation and mutually beneficial outcomes.

Discussing changes in the global order, he said economic interdependence was becoming a defining feature of international relations. At the same time, he warned that strategic resources, supply chains and financial systems were increasingly being used as instruments of influence.

Describing the current environment as a “world of choke points”, he noted that countries can exercise leverage through control of critical materials, technological capabilities and financial networks.

He cited rare earth minerals as a prominent example but stressed that finance also functions as a strategic chokepoint. Sanctions and the dominance of major financial systems, including the role of the US dollar, have demonstrated how economic instruments can be deployed for geopolitical purposes.

According to Jaishankar, future international competition will be shaped by what countries can bring to the table, whether through resources, technology, markets, investment opportunities or strategic partnerships.

He said the emerging order would be characterised by pragmatic deal-making, with countries negotiating arrangements that advance mutual interests, promote joint development and expand trade ties.

Despite the uncertainties associated with this transition, Jaishankar cautioned against taking an overly pessimistic view of global change. He suggested that the evolving international landscape could create new opportunities for cooperation and balanced partnerships among a wider range of influential nations.

The discussion took place during the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in New Delhi. Jaishankar participated in a conversation alongside Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, focusing on the changing distribution of global influence and the opportunities emerging from a more multipolar world.

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India And Norway Solidify Alliance For Sustainable Future And Climate Action Under Green Strategic Partnership

India and Norway have firmly reiterated their mutual dedication to expanding environmental and climate collaboration during the 12th session of the Joint Working Group on Environment held in Oslo. 

The meeting provided a comprehensive platform to assess and accelerate ongoing joint initiatives addressing critical issues such as marine pollution, environmental research, plastic and chemical contamination, waste recycling, and ocean resource management.

The strategic deliberations served to reinforce the shared vision of both countries in driving sustainable solutions and enhancing climate resilience.

This operational framework functions directly under the umbrella of the Green Strategic Partnership, which was jointly established to address global environmental challenges, advance ecological preservation, and build a resilient circular economy through targeted policy alignment and technological exchange.

Providing details regarding the official interactions, the Indian Embassy in Norway issued a statement confirming that the 12th Meeting of the India-Norway Joint Working Group on Environment was conducted on 10th and 11th September, 2026, in Oslo.

The Indian delegation from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change was led by Secretary Shri Tanmay Kumar. Discussions during the two-day event primarily revolved around key thematic priorities including plastic pollution management, circular economy practices, climate change mitigation, greenhouse gas emission controls, carbon market frameworks, and sustainable ocean management.

The Indian Embassy highlighted that the delegates undertook a comprehensive evaluation of active bilateral projects across marine litter, environmental research, chemical and plastic waste management, recycling systems, and oceanic ecosystem preservation.

The discussions underscored a renewed commitment from both sides to deepen bilateral environmental ties and scale up cooperative strategies under their Green Strategic Partnership.

These high-level interactions build upon a continuous calendar of diplomatic engagements. Earlier in June, bilateral channels remained active as officials met to evaluate shifting international dynamics and map out strategies for broadening their multi-faceted ties.

The dialogue took place between Norway's Ambassador to India, May-Elin Stener, and Aparna Ray, Joint Secretary for Policy Planning and Research in the Ministry of External Affairs. Following the interaction, Ambassador Stener expressed optimism on X, noting her satisfaction in engaging with Joint Secretary Aparna Ray to deliberate on changing global priorities, methods to fortify the multifaceted bilateral relationship, and her enthusiasm for sustaining close diplomatic ties.

The trajectory of bilateral relations hit a landmark milestone in May when Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a two-day official visit to Norway to attend the India-Nordic Summit, accompanied by bilateral summit talks. During his stay in Oslo, Prime Minister Modi held bilateral discussions with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. The two leaders formally upgraded the bilateral framework to a Green Strategic Partnership, placing special focus on joint growth in clean energy, innovation, higher education, research ecosystems, healthcare, and skill development programs.

Reflecting on the productive engagements, Prime Minister Modi shared on X that his discussions with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Oslo yielded fruitful results. He emphasised that elevating the relationship to a Green Strategic Partnership would enhance operational synergies in clean energy transitions, sustainable growth, the blue economy, green shipping infrastructure, and environmental conservation.

Prime Minister Modi also noted discussions around strengthening institutional ties across research, education, innovation, health services, and skill development programs, while welcoming Norway’s formal decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

Furthermore, both Prime Ministers actively participated in the Business and Research Summit, where Prime Minister Modi outlined India's ongoing economic transformation and structural reforms.

He urged Norwegian enterprise leaders and financial institutions to invest in India's expanding clean energy, green transition, and technology start-up ecosystems, emphasising target opportunities under bilateral economic frameworks.

During this historical official visit, Prime Minister Modi was also conferred with Norway's highest national honour, the 'Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit.'

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India And EU Deepen Strategic Partnership With Focus On Cooperation, Connectivity And Innovation

India and the European Union convened discussions in Brussels on Sunday, focusing on strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation, advancing high-level exchanges, and implementing shared priorities under their Strategic Partnership.

The meeting was held between India’s Ambassador to Belgium and the EU, Pranay Verma, and Pietro Ducci, Director-General for External Policies in the European Parliament.

The Indian Embassy in Belgium highlighted the engagement on X, noting that Ambassador Verma and Mr Ducci had a fruitful exchange of views on inter-parliamentary engagement, high-level exchanges, and the implementation of priorities under the India-EU Strategic Partnership.

India and the EU formally elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership during the fifth India-EU Summit in The Hague in 2004. This partnership is underpinned by shared commitments to democracy, the rule of law, multilateralism, and a rules-based international framework.

The multifaceted relationship spans trade, investment, technological innovation, security, defence, connectivity, and wider global issues.

Building on this cooperation, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Belgium in July, participating in the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meeting alongside Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada.

During his Brussels itinerary, Jaishankar met European Council President Antonio Costa, conveying warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasised the significant progress achieved since the landmark India-EU summit earlier in the year, valuing Costa’s guidance and sentiments for advancing trade and technology cooperation.

Jaishankar also held discussions with Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. Their talks centred on developments in West Asia, maritime security, and ensuring supply chain resilience.

Further engagements included a meeting with EU Commissioner for Start-Ups, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva. The dialogue focused on collaborative research in clean and green energy technologies, innovation hubs, Start-Up ecosystems, and India’s association with the Horizon Europe framework.

Jaishankar described the meeting as productive, noting opportunities for joint research in clean energy technologies and innovation-driven collaboration.

In another interaction, Jaishankar met European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Sikela. Their discussions explored advanced cooperation in connectivity, trilateral partnerships, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and green shipping.

Jaishankar expressed satisfaction with the dialogue, highlighting the importance of IMEC and sustainable shipping initiatives in strengthening India-EU cooperation.

The series of engagements reaffirmed the depth and breadth of the India-EU Strategic Partnership, underscoring its role in shaping global trade, technology, and security frameworks.

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QUAD Advances Logistics Network As India And China Seek Diplomatic Reset

Even as New Delhi works to consolidate a diplomatic thaw with Beijing, the Quad has advanced towards operationalising a logistics network designed to expedite humanitarian and disaster-relief operations across the Indo-Pacific.

Australia, India, Japan and the United States recently concluded a tabletop exercise in Tokyo aimed at driving forward the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the four nations achieved significant progress in finalising standard operating procedures to establish a formal institutional framework for the network.

The drill, hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Defence on 3 and 4 September, centred on simulated natural-disaster scenarios. Officials assessed methods for pooling logistical assets from all four partners to enhance coordination and interoperability.

This exercise followed the initial IPLN tabletop drill in Hawaii in April last year and a subsequent field training exercise in Guam in December. Alongside logistical planning, delegations discussed coordinating crisis-response and emergency relief efforts, while extending condolences to populations affected by recent flooding.

The IPLN was originally introduced as a civilian initiative at the Quad leaders’ summit in September 2024. It harnesses the logistics resources of the four countries strictly for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief purposes.

The Tokyo exercise took place immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping in New Delhi on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. The encounter marked Xi’s first visit to India in seven years.

During the talks, Prime Minister Modi stressed that maintaining peace and tranquillity along the border is fundamental to restoring bilateral normalcy, emphasising adherence to established agreements and mutual understandings. Beijing, however, advocated for parallel progress, suggesting that bilateral cooperation should advance concurrently with efforts to resolve the boundary dispute.

Both governments noted the continued utility of active diplomatic and military mechanisms, referencing the 25th round of Special Representatives’ talks held on 25 August and senior commander-level flag meetings on 6 and 7 September.

While the Quad consistently maintains that it is not a military alliance, focusing instead on maritime security, critical technologies and humanitarian assistance, Beijing has repeatedly characterised the coalition as an exclusive bloc designed for containment. New Delhi firmly rejects this perspective.

The conclusion of the Tokyo drill coincides with a broader sequence of bilateral defence engagements involving India and the other three Quad member states, underscoring the coalition’s expanding operational depth.

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BRICS 2026: India Has Chance To Reassert Global Leadership, Says Analyst Michael Kugelman

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman has emphasised that the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi provides India with a pivotal platform to reassert its global leadership and deepen its engagement with the Global South.

He noted that the timing of the summit is crucial, as developing nations are increasingly seeking alternatives to the existing global framework amid growing volatility in the international order.

Kugelman explained that the summit comes at a moment of intensifying instability in the global economic and financial system, as well as in the broader international order.

He said BRICS is designed to provide new contributions to the global order at a time when dissatisfaction is rising, particularly within the Global South.

He described the timing of this year’s summit as fortuitous, stressing that it allows India to redouble its efforts to connect with the Global South. He underlined that these priorities are central to Indian foreign policy, making the summit a significant opportunity for New Delhi.

However, Kugelman cautioned that India faces considerable diplomatic hurdles in forging unity within the expanded and increasingly complex grouping.

He said the ability to produce a substantive joint statement would be a key measure of success, as consensus is essential for BRICS to function effectively. He warned that the expansion of membership increases the risk of ineffectiveness due to the difficulty of reaching agreement among diverse nations.

He identified two specific challenges for India’s diplomatic balancing act. The first is navigating tensions in West Asia, given the presence of both Iran and the UAE at the summit.

The second is managing the ideological divide between BRICS members and the United States, particularly as India is engaged in delicate negotiations with Washington over a bilateral trade agreement.

He noted that Russia, Iran, and possibly China may push for language critical of the US, while India and others will resist such moves to safeguard their ties with Washington.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s economic resilience during the Leaders’ Session of the BRICS Business Forum.

He said India has diversified supply chains across sectors, ensuring reliability and stability even amidst global uncertainties.

He emphasised that India offers assurance of growth and stability, supported by rapid expansion of infrastructure including roads, railways, ports, and airports.

PM Modi also stressed that BRICS nations are emerging as centres of global innovation and solutions. He said global trade can only progress when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe.

He reiterated that the theme of India’s BRICS chairmanship is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability,” which has guided India’s economic and trade policies for over a decade.

He pointed out that BRICS has expanded significantly since its launch in 2006, with its membership and partners now comprising 21 countries. This expansion reflects the growing importance of the grouping in global affairs and underscores India’s role as chair in shaping its future trajectory.

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India Charts Global Defence Diplomacy Vision With ‘Raksha’ Blueprint

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (3-Sep-2026) unveiled ‘Raksha’, a strategic blueprint on defence diplomacy that sets out India’s vision for the next decade.

The document provides a comprehensive framework for global partnerships and positions India as an anchor of peace, stability, and rule-based order in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The defence ministry emphasised that defence diplomacy is a core pillar of India’s foreign policy. The blueprint offers a clear and actionable roadmap for the next ten years, aligning national security objectives with proactive global cooperation. It seeks to foster long-term stability and mutual growth while strengthening India’s role as a responsible global actor.

The release of the ‘Raksha’ document marks a significant shift in India’s strategic engagement. It reflects a deliberate effort to integrate defence diplomacy into broader foreign policy goals, ensuring that India’s military and industrial strengths are leveraged to build enduring partnerships across regions.

The document identifies four key pillars. The first is strategic partnerships, which aim to deepen bilateral and multilateral security cooperation.

This includes expanding defence dialogues, joint initiatives, and collaborative frameworks with friendly nations.

The second pillar is capacity building. India intends to enhance joint military exercises, training programs, and the exchange of best practices. This approach is designed to strengthen interoperability and build confidence among partner nations.

The third pillar is indigenous exports. The blueprint highlights the importance of promoting Make-in-India defence platforms, thereby positioning India as a reliable global hub for defence manufacturing. This aligns with the government’s broader push for self-reliance and the export of advanced systems to friendly countries.

The fourth pillar is maritime security. India seeks to reinforce its role as a net-security provider and first responder in the Indian Ocean Region. This includes safeguarding sea lanes, ensuring uninterrupted maritime commerce, and responding swiftly to crises in the wider Indo-Pacific.

Senior leadership was present at the release event in New Delhi. Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs Rudrendra Tandon, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee Air Marshal Tejinder Singh attended alongside officials from the National Security Council Secretariat.

The blueprint also underscores India’s ambition to expand its defence exports, which have already reached record levels in recent years. With defence products now being exported to nearly 100 countries, India is steadily building credibility as a global security partner. The government has set a target of achieving ₹3 lakh crore in defence production by 2029, supported by indigenous innovation and industrial growth.

The maritime pillar is particularly significant given India’s strategic geography. With increasing challenges in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific, India’s role as a stabilising force is expected to grow. 

The blueprint envisions India taking the lead in cooperative frameworks to counter piracy, terrorism, and the weaponisation of trade routes.

The release of ‘Raksha’ comes at a time when India is also advancing indigenous technologies such as glide bombs, missile systems, and naval platforms. These developments complement the blueprint’s emphasis on self-reliance and export-driven growth, ensuring that India’s defence diplomacy is backed by credible capabilities.

The strategic document reflects continuity with India’s broader foreign policy stance of supporting dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. At the same time, it signals a proactive approach to shaping the security environment in Asia and beyond, with India emerging as a trusted partner in collective security.

India’s defence diplomacy blueprint is expected to serve as a guiding framework for the next decade, ensuring that the country’s military strength, industrial capacity, and diplomatic outreach are harmonised to achieve national and global objectives.

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Transformative Strategic Ties: India, Belgium Open New Defence Production Front With Mine Warfare, Rockets And Ammunition Pacts

India and Belgium have opened a major new front in defence-industrial cooperation with a series of agreements covering mine warfare, ammunition production, rockets, light tank turrets, electro-optics and counter-drone technologies.

The pacts were signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s talks with Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever in New Delhi, marking the first visit by a Belgian premier to India in two decades.

The agreements include a government-to-government framework to deepen military cooperation. Modi emphasised that defence and security cooperation is now a key pillar of bilateral ties, noting that the new industry agreements would create opportunities for defence co-development and co-production. He also confirmed that military exchanges and training cooperation would be enhanced.

The most consequential agreement is between Larsen & Toubro and Belgian autonomous-systems specialist Exail, which is competing for the Navy’s mine-countermeasure vessel program. Exail will provide autonomous systems to detect, identify and neutralise naval mines.

The initial program covers 12 vessels, with the requirement potentially expanding to 59. The Navy has faced a capability gap in mine warfare since the decommissioning of INS Kozhikode in April 2019.

Belgian defence major John Cockerill Defence has signed an agreement with L&T for turrets for the Zorawar light tank, designed for high-altitude operations along the Line of Actual Control.

Its 3105 turret is already fitted on prototypes undergoing trials. A joint venture with Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics will manufacture 59 turrets at Chakan near Pune, with the Army’s eventual requirement standing at 354 tanks.

Thales Belgium and Kalyani Strategic Systems will assemble 70mm rockets in India, with the first fully India-manufactured rocket expected in early 2027. Kalyani is also exploring a joint production centre with FN Herstal for small arms and counter-drone equipment.

Belgian ammunition specialist Lachaussée has agreed to supply Tembo Classic Engineering with a production line for two ammunition calibres, with tooling for two more. The facility, valued at about ₹450 crores, will have a capacity of 100 million rounds annually, with installation planned for 2028-29.

OIP Sensor Systems, which has supplied over 130 sights for Arjun MK-I tanks, is partnering India Optel Ltd on electro-optical systems, including a fire-control system for Arjun MK-II capable of supporting laser-guided missile launches.

Belgian company Sol1 has partnered DGVK Enterprises to offer its Saboteur loitering drone and Buzzkill and Hitchhiker interceptor systems.

Krishna Industries and Pitagone are setting up a joint venture for mobile anti-vehicle barriers. The Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers and the Belgian Security & Defence Industry association have signed an industry-level cooperation pact.

The agreements were exchanged at the India-Belgium Defence CEOs Roundtable co-hosted by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken. A Letter of Intent between the two defence ministries focuses on staff talks, officer exchanges, education and training, research and development, joint exercises and cooperation on maritime security and emerging technologies.

Belgium will appoint a defence attaché in New Delhi, while India will post a resident defence attaché in Brussels.

The Belgian Navy frigate LEOPOLD-I is scheduled to visit India in November. The joint statement also recorded Belgium’s solidarity with India in the fight against terrorism and its condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. Both countries agreed to explore establishing a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.

The defence push is part of a wider effort to recast bilateral ties. Modi and De Wever agreed to work towards doubling bilateral trade over the next five years, supported by an Investment Fast-Track Mechanism.

PM Modi acknowledged the traditional economic foundation of the relationship through diamonds but signalled a broader ambition, stating that the historic connection is being transformed into a comprehensive strategic partnership.

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India And Uzbekistan Elevate Defence Partnership With Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation

India and Uzbekistan have elevated their bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a significant milestone in their defence and security cooperation.

The joint statement issued during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Uzbekistan emphasised the strengthening of ties between defence and security agencies through regular exchanges, institutional mechanisms, capacity-building, joint activities and defence industrial collaboration.

The two sides expressed satisfaction with the activities of the Joint Working Group on Military Cooperation, which has been exploring new avenues in the defence industrial domain.

They welcomed the successful conduct of the Uzbekistan–India Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK, the latest edition of which was held in Namangan Region in April 2026.

The leaders highlighted the growing cooperation and close coordination between their defence and security agencies, reaffirming their commitment to address shared security challenges.

Foreign Secretary (West) Sibi George noted that discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev included further strengthening defence and security cooperation. India has provided the Uzbekistan Army with Arogya Maitri Bisham Cubes to enhance disaster relief capabilities and has equipped the polyclinic at the University of Military Security and Defence of Uzbekistan.

During a joint press statement, Prime Minister Modi underlined that the close defence and security cooperation reflected deep mutual trust.

He announced that both countries would promote direct linkages, co-production and co-development between their defence industries. He also stressed that terrorism, extremism and separatism posed serious challenges to the region, reiterating India and Uzbekistan’s shared resolve to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards them.

The joint statement unequivocally condemned terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, in all forms and manifestations. The leaders rejected any justification for terrorism and called for concerted action against terrorist entities, financing networks, safe havens and infrastructure.

They stressed that perpetrators, backers, facilitators and affiliates of terrorism must be brought to justice. Cooperation in law enforcement, intelligence sharing, combating violent extremism, illicit drug trafficking, organised crime and cyber threats was also reaffirmed, with continued engagement under the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism.

India and Uzbekistan’s defence ties have been longstanding. A Joint Working Group on Defence was established in 2019, with its sixth meeting held in Uzbekistan in August 2026.

The fifth meeting was held in New Delhi in August 2025, while the ninth Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism convened in Tashkent in September 2025. The DUSTLIK exercise, conducted alternately in both countries, remains a cornerstone of cooperation.

The seventh edition, held in April 2026 at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangan, involved 60 personnel from each side, including members of the Mahar Regiment and the Indian Air Force.

The exercise focused on joint operations in semi-mountainous terrain, tactical drills, land navigation, strike missions and seizure of enemy-held areas. A 48-hour validation exercise tested joint special operations against unlawful armed groups, enhancing interoperability and operational synergy.

Defence industry cooperation has also expanded, with Uzbekistan’s Defence Industry Agency participating in Aero India 2025. The leaders’ decision to deepen defence and security cooperation aligns with broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties across strategic and economic sectors.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership now covers trade, economy, investment, transport connectivity, digital transformation, IT, artificial intelligence, space, cybersecurity, energy transition, critical minerals, food security, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and education.

The leaders agreed to maintain regular dialogue at leadership and institutional levels, establish a Foreign Ministers-led mechanism for high-level coordination and oversight, and modernise agreements to reflect current priorities. Parliamentary exchanges were welcomed, and the importance of strengthening the legal framework governing cooperation was emphasised.

On the economic front, both sides agreed to expand and diversify trade, remove non-tariff barriers and promote industrial cooperation. Prime Minister Modi’s State Visit to Uzbekistan from August 29 to 30 at the invitation of President Mirziyoyev underscored the depth of bilateral ties.

Following his visit to Tashkent, Modi will travel to Bishkek to participate in the 26th SCO Summit, marking 25 years of the organisation.

At the summit, India is expected to focus on security, connectivity and cultural ties across Eurasia, with particular emphasis on counter-terrorism, regional transport and trade routes, and people-to-people exchanges.

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PM Modi And Kyrgyz President Zhaparov Reaffirm Strategic Partnership And Expand Trade

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Strategic Partnership between India and the Kyrgyz Republic during their meeting on the sidelines of the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek.

Both leaders agreed to enhance economic and commercial cooperation by leveraging complementarities between the two economies. They also emphasised expanding people-to-people ties through increased student exchanges and cultural collaborations.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Zhaparov on the Independence Day of the Kyrgyz Republic, noting that the national celebration added special significance to the opening of the SCO Summit. He commended the Kyrgyz President for successfully hosting the summit.

Highlighting India’s active participation in SCO meetings under Kyrgyz chairmanship, Prime Minister Modi stated that this involvement reflects mutual respect, trust and support that define the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

Expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended to the Indian delegation, Prime Minister Modi thanked President Zhaparov for his leadership in conducting the summit.

Reflecting on the bilateral meeting, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of India-Kyrgyz Republic relations, reaffirming close and longstanding ties.

They agreed to further strengthen the Strategic Partnership, including economic and commercial cooperation. Prime Minister Modi also congratulated President Zhaparov on successful chairship of the SCO for the 2025–26 term.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and reiterated India’s support for efforts aimed at long-standing peace and stability in West Asia amid ongoing tensions.

He also held a bilateral meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation across defence, economics, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, culture and education.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin and attend the official opening ceremony of the 6th World Nomad Games at the invitation of President Zhaparov.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Bishkek on Sunday to participate in the SCO Summit, marking the second leg of his two-country visit after concluding his state visit to Uzbekistan. His arrival in the Kyrgyz capital was at the invitation of President Zhaparov.

The 26th SCO Summit brings together leaders of member states to deliberate on regional and international issues and explore ways to strengthen cooperation within the grouping.

India’s participation is expected to further deepen its engagement with the SCO and Central Asian partners as the organisation marks 25 years of its existence.

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India And League of Arab States Reaffirm Strategic Partnership

Secretary (Consular, Passport and Visa and Overseas Indian Affairs) at the Ministry of External Affairs, Sripriya Ranganathan, met Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Ambassador Khalid Manzalawi, in Cairo.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-Arab partnership during this high-level engagement.

The Indian Embassy in Egypt noted that discussions centred on advancing the Executive Program 2026-28, adopted at the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. The talks focused on concrete initiatives in new and emerging areas of cooperation. Both delegations underlined their shared resolve to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors.

On Sunday, Secretary Ranganathan addressed the India-Egypt BRICS Partnership Conference. The event was organised by the Indian Embassy in Egypt in collaboration with the Indian Council of World Affairs at the Diplomatic Club in Cairo.

In her remarks, she highlighted the priorities of India’s BRICS 2026 Chairship and emphasised how the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership provides a strong foundation for closer cooperation within BRICS and for advancing the priorities of the Global South.

The Embassy stressed that her intervention underscored India’s leadership role in shaping multilateral cooperation and its commitment to strengthening ties with Egypt as part of a broader regional strategy. The conference served as a platform to align India’s BRICS agenda with regional aspirations, particularly in areas of sustainable development, innovation, and resilience.

Secretary Ranganathan is currently on an official visit to Egypt, Palestine and Lebanon from 16 to 21 August. The Ministry of External Affairs outlined that she will meet her counterparts and key regional stakeholders during this tour.

The visit is designed to reinforce India’s friendly ties with these countries and provide an opportunity for discussions on regional developments and issues of mutual interest.

The Ministry further noted that this marks her maiden visit to the region in her current capacity. It is expected to deepen India’s engagement with partner nations and strengthen diplomatic outreach at a time of significant geopolitical shifts.

The visit also reflects India’s intent to consolidate its role as a bridge between Asia and the Arab world, while advancing shared priorities under both bilateral and multilateral frameworks.

The reaffirmation of the India-Arab partnership, coupled with India’s active BRICS Chairship, highlights New Delhi’s strategic focus on building resilient alliances and expanding its influence across regions.

This dual-track diplomacy underscores India’s commitment to both regional stability and global cooperation.

ANI

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'May India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership Grow Even Stronger' Says PM Modi As Leaders Exchange Independence Day Greetings

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his gratitude to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday for his warm wishes on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day.

He expressed confidence that the bilateral relationship between the two nations will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.

Responding to greetings from the Israeli Prime Minister, Modi emphasised the importance of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership. He expressed hope for its further expansion, highlighting the potential for unlocking new opportunities and forging deeper people-to-people connections between the two countries.

In his message on X, Modi wrote, “Thank you, Prime Minister Netanyahu, for your warm wishes. May the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership grow even stronger, unlocking new opportunities and forging deeper people-to-people connections between our nations.”

Netanyahu had earlier extended greetings to Modi on India’s 80th Independence Day, describing the friendship between the two nations as “boundless.” In a post shared by Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu remarked that India and Israel are two ancient nations that seize the future together to bring a better life for their people.

He added, “Congratulations to India and to my dear friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi on your 80th Independence Day. India and Israel achieved independence one year apart. We are two ancient nations that seize the future together to bring a better life for our people. Our innovation and friendship are boundless. The best is yet to come!”

Modi also thanked Israeli President Isaac Herzog for his greetings on India’s Independence Day, underscoring the value of India’s friendship with Israel. This exchange of greetings reflects the depth of diplomatic engagement and the emphasis placed on strengthening ties.

Earlier this year, Modi made a state visit to Israel from 25 to 26 February 2026 on the invitation of Netanyahu. He was accompanied by a high-level delegation of senior ministers and officials. The visit reaffirmed the leaders’ commitment to elevating the bilateral relationship to a new level, described as “A Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation & Prosperity,” according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The foundation for this enhanced partnership was laid during Modi’s historic visit to Israel in 2017 and Netanyahu’s visit to India in 2018. Since then, immense progress has been made across diverse domains, including emerging technologies, cyber, agriculture, water management, health, entrepreneurship, defence, and security.

Both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for a robust special strategic partnership rooted in mutual aspirations for peace, security, and prosperity through technological innovation and entrepreneurship. 

They acknowledged that Indian and Israeli capabilities complement each other perfectly, with Israel recognised as a global powerhouse of technology and innovation, and India serving as a hub of talent, manufacturing excellence, and entrepreneurial energy.

The Prime Ministers affirmed their commitment to integrating advancements in AI, cybersecurity, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, agriculture, water management, defence platforms, and space exploration. This partnership is aligned with India’s vision of an “Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat 2047” and aims to spark the next wave of technological transformation and shared progress for both nations.

Underscoring the shared commitment to transform policy priorities into tangible outcomes, Modi and Netanyahu emphasised the importance of institutionalising bilateral mechanisms across Government-to-Government, Business-to-Business, and People-to-People domains.

This approach is intended to ensure sustained collaboration and meaningful impact in the years ahead.

ANI

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Netanyahu, World Leaders Hail India’s 80th Independence Day, Highlight Global Partnerships

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended warm greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day. In his message, he described the friendship between India and Israel as “boundless,” emphasising that the two ancient nations, which achieved independence just a year apart, continue to seize the future together to bring a better life for their people.

He highlighted innovation and friendship as the cornerstones of this relationship, declaring that “the best is yet to come.”

The message was shared in a post on X by Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office, underlining the historic and forward-looking nature of the bilateral ties. Netanyahu’s words reflected the enduring partnership that has grown steadily across defence, technology, agriculture, and innovation, with both nations increasingly collaborating in areas such as cybersecurity, renewable energy, and advanced defence systems.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also extended his wishes to India on its Independence Day. In his letter, he recalled the arduous journey India undertook to achieve freedom, noting that the path was anything but easy.

He praised the sheer power of will, belief, and determination that led to independence, describing it as a bright new beginning filled with hope. His message reflected Australia’s growing strategic partnership with India, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, where both nations share common interests in security, trade, and regional stability.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his message to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, hailed India’s “remarkable progress” across economic, social, scientific, and technological spheres.

He noted that India rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena. Russia’s greetings underscored the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations, spanning defence cooperation, nuclear energy, and space exploration.

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening its partnership with India. He emphasised the enduring friendship between the peoples of both nations, a relationship that has been central to regional stability in the Indian Ocean. His message highlighted the importance of India’s role in supporting Maldives’ development and security.

French President Emmanuel Macron also extended warm wishes to the people of India on this landmark occasion. France and India share a close strategic partnership, particularly in defence, space, and clean energy cooperation. Macron’s greetings reflected the depth of this relationship and the shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, in his message of goodwill, addressed Prime Minister Modi as his “elder brother.” He expressed hope that the friendship and close bond between the two nations would continue to flourish. Bhutan’s message highlighted the unique cultural and spiritual ties that underpin the bilateral relationship, alongside cooperation in hydropower and sustainable development.

These messages from leaders across the world came as India celebrated its 80th Independence Day, marking 79 years since its liberation from colonial rule. The greetings underscored the breadth of India’s diplomatic engagement and the emphasis placed on friendship, cooperation, and building a peaceful and prosperous region.

They also reflected India’s growing stature as a global power, with partnerships spanning continents and sectors, from defence and energy to technology and people-to-people ties.

The collective outpouring of goodwill demonstrated how India’s journey of independence continues to inspire nations worldwide, while its modern achievements strengthen its role as a key player in shaping the future of global cooperation.

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Quad In Strong Shape As Australia Highlights India’s Strategic Role

Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green has underlined that the Quad grouping is in “extremely good shape,” pointing to the strong sense of alignment and trust among the four member states.

Speaking at an ORF event, he noted that the recent Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila followed two such meetings last year and another held in New Delhi three months ago. He emphasised that the frequency of these engagements reflects the determination of the four nations to deepen cooperation.

Green added that more meetings of foreign ministers are expected before the end of the year, signalling the grouping’s intent to maintain momentum.

He highlighted India’s growing importance in Australia’s economic security program, stressing that New Delhi has become a crucial partner in ensuring resilient supply chains and energy security. He remarked that recent geopolitical developments, particularly threats to the Strait of Hormuz, underscored India’s strategic value for Australia’s energy supplies.

Green explained that India is seen as a trusted partner across key sectors, including electric motors, electric vehicles, legacy chips and solar panels, making it a natural source of diversification.

On the India-Australia uranium deal, Green confirmed that the government-level framework has now been completed. He explained that while Australia had earlier signed a nuclear safeguards agreement, the underlying administrative framework was not settled until recently. With that now in place, the next phase will be driven by commercial decisions, with actual uranium sales left to the private sector.

He also spoke about trilateral cooperation involving Australia, Canada and India in emerging technologies. Green said the three countries are prepared to deepen collaboration in critical minerals and critical technologies, noting that India is becoming increasingly consequential among global players. He expressed satisfaction at bringing the three nations together in these strategic fields.

On defence ties, Green pointed to the recently announced joint declaration as evidence of the growing strategic partnership between Canberra and New Delhi. He described India as a top-tier defence and security partner for Australia.

He further emphasised that maritime cooperation remains the cornerstone of bilateral defence engagement, stating that the maritime domain is perhaps the most important sphere of collaboration between the two countries.

The envoy’s remarks reflect the strengthening of India-Australia relations across multiple dimensions, from energy and supply chain resilience to defence and emerging technologies. They also highlight the Quad’s continued relevance as a platform for strategic trust and alignment in the Indo-Pacific.

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