Japan: Sanae Takaichi’s historic win | Honk Kong: Jimmy Lai Sentenced

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The World This Week

Japan: Sanae Takaichi’s historic win | Honk Kong: Jimmy Lai Sentenced

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

The World This Week #344, Vol 8, No 06, 15 February 2026

Global Politics Team
16 February 2026

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Japan: Sanae Takaichi’s historic win, and its implications for domestic politics & regional stability
Lekshmi MK

On 08 February, Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi secured a historic landslide victory in the snap general election which she had earlier described as a “political gamble.” The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), along with its coalition partner, is projected to secure a two-thirds supermajority in the Lower House (House of Representatives). Early results indicated that the LDP alone won around 316 out of 465 seats, marking one of the largest post-war victories for a single party in Japan. Following the results, the Nikkei 225 index rose sharply in early trading, signalling investor confidence in Takaichi’s economic agenda.

What does the election result mean for the new PM?
Takaichi is Japan’s first elected female Prime Minister and a long-time member of the Liberal Democratic Party. Over the years, she has held key ministerial positions. The landslide victory significantly strengthens her political authority both within the government and the Liberal Democratic Party. By securing a supermajority, she no longer faces internal party constraints and coalition pressures that often-limited Japanese prime ministers. The result gives her a clear and direct public mandate to pursue policies she advocated during the campaign. With such a decisive win, Takaichi has gained greater control over the party’s direction and policymaking priorities. Importantly, the numbers in parliament now provide her the political space to move forward with difficult economic reforms, increased defence spending, and even open discussions on constitutional changes. These are issues that earlier leaders approached cautiously due to a lack of numbers or political risk.

What does the election mean for domestic politics, the economy and the LDP?
First, for domestic politics. With a two-thirds majority in the Lower House, the government now has enough seats to pass legislation smoothly and even begin discussions on constitutional changes. Many in the LDP have long supported revising Article 9, which limits the country’s military role. Consequently, her tenure is expected to witness a change in the country’s defence policy.

Second, for the economy. Japan has struggled with slow growth, an ageing population, labour shortages, and deflationary pressures for decades. Takaichi’s agenda of fiscal stimulus, tax relief, and deregulation is expected to revive economic activity. The immediate positive reaction in financial markets reflect investor confidence in this policy direction and signal economic revival under her leadership.

Third, for the LDP. The landslide victory strengthens the party’s dominance in Japanese politics and reinforces its internal unity. The result reduces factional pressures within the party and consolidates Takaichi’s leadership, giving the LDP clearer direction in policymaking.

What does the election mean for regional stability?
First, Japan is likely to adopt a firmer and more assertive security posture in the region. With a strong parliamentary mandate, Takaichi has the political space to increase defence spending and reinterpret Japan’s military role, particularly with regard to Article 9. There is a possibility of Japan pivoting away from its pacifist stance to a more defensive and even offensive policy.

Second, Japan may further strengthen its alliances with the United States and Indo-Pacific partners such as India and Australia, while taking a more pronounced stance towards China’s activities in the East China Sea and around Taiwan. This could enhance deterrence vis-a-vis China and strategic coordination among like-minded countries.

What has been the international response?
International reactions have reflected both strategic interest and economic optimism. The United States welcomed the outcome and expressed its intention to continue close cooperation with Japan on Indo-Pacific security and regional stability. India also conveyed its congratulations, highlighting the potential for deeper strategic and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Financial markets reacted immediately, with the Nikkei index rising, reflecting investor confidence in Takaichi’s economic policies. Her agenda of tax reforms, deregulation, and fiscal expansion is seen as favourable for business and investment.

China responded cautiously, reiterating its opposition to any developments that could increase militarisation in the region, especially concerning Taiwan and the East China Sea.

Hong Kong: Jimmy Lai sentenced for 20 years. Who, What, and Why?
Femy Francis

What happened?
On 09 February, Hong Kong sentenced media tycoon Jimmy Lai to 20 years in jail, on two counts: conspiracy, colluding with foreign agents and publishing seditious materials. Besides Lai, six former senior Apple Daily staffers, an activist and a paralegal were sentenced to jail terms ranging between six and 10 years. The judge said: “In the present case, Lai was no doubt the mastermind of all three conspiracies charged, and therefore he warrants a heavier sentence,” and that “As regards the others, it is difficult to distinguish their relative culpability.” Lai, who is 78 now and a British citizen, has denied all charges and calls himself a political prisoner.

Who is Jimmy Lai, and why was he detained?
Jimmy Lai is a tycoon from Hong Kong who built his business empire through media and retail chains. By 2020, during the time of his arrest, he was worth USD 1.2 billion. He was one of the few billionaires who used his wealth and influence for activism, funding and participating in the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. He became a supporter of the democracy movement after the Tiananmen Square incident in Beijing in 1989. He soon established Apple Daily just before the UK handed over its rule of Hong Kong to China. His media outlets became the loud source for the pro-democracy movement, with Lai himself writing columns shaming the Chinese leaders and government.

During the 2019 protest, his paper backed the proposed extradition bill. Apple Daily published a cut-out letter to the now US President Donald Trump calling to help save Hong Kong, which became the key material used against the national security case. In 2020, weeks after the National Security Law by China was introduced in Hong Kong, Lai’s Apple Daily office was stormed, and he was arrested along with several of Apple Daily’s executives. Two of his eldest sons were also arrested, and the company was forced to close the following year. The closure was yet another blow to the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. Lai was advised to take advantage of his UK citizenship and foreign residence and flee the country like many others. He refused, saying that he wanted to support his journalists and keep fighting for Hong Kong, and that he preferred to go to jail than abandon his city. Lai was optimistic but cautious of the judicial system. He said: “They just want to show the teeth of the national security law, but they haven’t bitten yet.” Lai is one of many NSL arrests; there was a mass prosecution of 47 politicians and activists who worked for democracy. Laws were rewritten to limit bail rights and restrict foreign lawyers from defending Lai.

What is the verdict? What is the National Security Law about?
The High Court of the HKSAR found Lai guilty of “grave criminal conduct” for colluding with external forces and publishing seditious materials. He was found to be the “mastermind and driving force behind these conspiracies,” notes the court. It said: “Disguised as a media man while acting as an agent for external anti-China forces, Lai was the principal mastermind and perpetrator of a series of riots that shook Hong Kong and undermined the fundamental interests of both the country and the HKSAR.” This is the first case where the “conspiracy to collude with foreign forces"” has been used to implement the National Security Law.

The law was first established in 2020, in response to the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong in 2019. The National Security Law was established in 2020, also when Lai was detained. Criminalises any activity seen as sedition, violating the central government’s authority, use of violence, intimidation and involvement of foreign actors. Under the now revised provision, the mandate of the law has been expanded: China can now try some cases in their homeland, enforce the authority as to how the law will be interpreted, closed doors trials, surveillance and wiretapping allowed, vandalism will be seen as terrorism, those found guilty cannot stand for public office, and it can also be applied to non-permanent resident who are staying in Hong Kong.

What has been the international response?
The UK foreign secretary called this conviction “tantamount to a life sentence.” Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed concern and called for China to stop the suppression of freedom of expression.

The EU foreign policy department stated that “The EU calls on the Hong Kong authorities to restore confidence in press freedom in Hong Kong, one of the pillars of its historic success as an international financial centre, and to stop prosecuting journalists.” United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said: “This verdict needs to be promptly quashed as incompatible with international law.”

About the authors

Lekshmi MK is pursuing post-graduation in the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai, and is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
Femy Francis is a Project Associate at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.

TWTW Regional Roundups
News from around the world
Adwitiyo Das, Aksath Kaimal, Aishwarya D Pai, Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, R Preetha, Sakshi Yadav, Santhiya M, Tanvi Harendra, Tonica Sharon C, Yesasvi Koganti

CHINA & EAST ASIA THIS WEEK
Japan: PM Takaichi secures historic victory in snap election; Stocks rise after her securing a supermajority
On 09 February, the media reported that Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi won a historic landslide victory in the snap general election on 08 February. Her Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner are projected to secure a two-thirds supermajority in the lower house of parliament. Early results showed the LDP alone winning around 316 of 465 seats, its largest post-war victory for a single party, giving Takaichi a powerful mandate to pursue her agenda. PM Takaichi is Japan’s first elected female prime minister and led her party to the win on a platform that includes tax cuts, economic reforms, and increased military spending amid rising regional tensions, particularly with China. Meanwhile, the election result has immediately boosted market confidence. In early trading, the Nikkei 225 stock market index surged by more than five per cent. Market players are encouraged by expected tax cuts, increased government spending, and deregulation, which form the backbone of Takaichi’s economic agenda. PM Takaichi described the snap election as a political gamble, claiming that the victory has given her a “responsible yet proactive” mandate to overhaul fiscal and economic policies.

Hong Kong: Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years under the national security law
On 09 February, Hong Kong’s High Court sentenced prominent media tycoon and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison under the city’s national security law. Lai was convicted on charges of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials, marking the most severe punishment yet imposed under the law enacted by Beijing in 2020. Lai, founder of the now-closed Apple Daily newspaper, has denied all charges and described himself as a political prisoner. The court ruled that he played a central role in seeking foreign sanctions against China, which justified the harsh sentence. Several former Apple Daily staff members also received lengthy jail terms. The verdict has drawn intense criticism from the US, UK, EU, and the UN, raising concerns about press freedom, the rule of law, and political rights in Hong Kong.

US-Taiwan: Taipei to audit the US’ rare earth deposits to strengthen supply chains
On 11 February, Taiwan declared it would send officials to the US with the mission of assessing rare earth mineral deposits, in order to refine the materials on the island and reduce dependence on China-centric supply chains. According to Reuters, Taiwan's Economy Minister Kung Ming-hsin confirmed that the Geological Survey and Mining Management Agency will study what rare earth elements are available in the US and whether they suit Taiwan's industrial needs. The move comes after the United States intensified efforts to secure critical minerals following China's earlier decision to withhold rare earth supplies that roiled global markets and affected American manufacturers. The Trump administration recently launched a strategic stockpile programme called Project Vault with USD 10 billion from the US Export-Import Bank and USD 2 billion of private funding. Although Taiwan is not included in the program, it has engaged in discussions with the US due to concerns about supply chain risks and the Chinese military buildup. Taiwan currently uses 1,500 metric tonnes of rare earths annually, but plans to consume 2,000 metric tonnes, of which half will be produced domestically.

China and the Philippines: Manila calls for calm amid rising diplomatic tensions
On 11 February, Reuters reported that the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs urged China to maintain a calm and constructive tone amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The appeal followed a Philippine Senate resolution condemning recent statements by the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which criticised Philippine officials for asserting the country’s sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea. China rejected the Senate resolution, describing it as a political move. Philippine officials emphasised the importance of professional and measured dialogue, consistent with the country’s democratic traditions. The exchange comes amid ongoing maritime confrontations in the South China Sea. The Philippines has accused China of aggressive actions within its Exclusive Economic Zone, including dangerous manoeuvres and interference in resupply missions. China, however, maintains that the Philippines has intruded into its claimed territory.

SOUTHEAST ASIA THIS WEEK
Thailand: PM Charnavirakul claims election victory as Bhumjaithai outperform People’s Party
On 09 February, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnavirakul claimed victory in Thailand’s general election, winning 194 seats in the 500-seat parliament. The People's Party won 116 seats and was ready to serve in opposition if PM Charnavirakul could form a government. No party is projected to gain an overall majority; the result places PM Charnavirakul in a position to remain in office following the collapse of the coalition he led after just three months. The result was a disappointment for the People’s Party, whose anticipated “orange wave” of young reformist support did not materialise. Bhumjaithai won the election on patriotic sentiment following border tensions with Cambodia, promising to defend the monarchy and the military and demonstrating its ability to win over local power brokers. The Pheu Thai Party, linked to the Shinawatra family, won 86 seats, placing it as the third main contender. Alongside the election, sixty-five per cent of voters also voted in favour of a referendum on whether to reform the 2017 constitution drafted under military rule.

Myanmar: Shan ethnic leader accuses the world of ignoring the junta’s deadly airstrikes
On 11 February, General Yawd Serk, chair of the Restoration Council of Shan State, accused global leaders for ignoring the junta’s increasing airstrikes on civilians while speaking at Shan National Day celebrations in Loi Tai Leng. He stated that the civilians are suffering and claimed that only China was intervening in the conflict, especially to stabilise those regions important to its Belt and Road infrastructure projects, and has urged the international community to not overlook the crisis. Since the 2021 military coup Myanmar has been in a nationwide conflict. According to the Myanmar Peace Monitor, airstrikes have hit more than 1,000 civilian locations in the past 15 months, leaving at least 1,728 civilians killed since 2024. The junta maintains the claim that it is targeting the terrorist groups. General Serk advocated for trust-building within the armed factions and has emphasised the need for political dialogue to end the war. He has criticised Senior General Min Aung Hlaing’s leadership while highlighting that his group would judge the new government by their actions. China’s foreign ministry has responded by saying that it has played a constructive role in Myanmar’s peace and reconciliation process.

Myanmar: The Philippines links Myanmar Union Day message to ASEAN Five-Point consensus Implementation
On 13 February, Mizzima reported that the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on 12 February marking the 79th Anniversary of Myanmar’s Union Day, expressing hopes for genuine reconciliation and calling for the release of more political prisoners as a step toward inclusive national dialogue in line with ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus.

SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
India-France: President Macron to visit India for AI Summit and bilateral talks
On 10 February, Reuters reported that French President Emmanuel Macron will visit India from 17 to 19 February and hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, Macron will attend the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, highlighting the growing India–France cooperation in emerging technologies. The French President will also travel to Mumbai to inaugurate the India-France Year of Innovation, reflecting efforts to deepen collaboration in science, technology, and innovation. According to India’s foreign ministry, discussions between the two leaders will cover key regional and global issues, including cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit builds on recent momentum in bilateral ties. During Modi’s visit to France last year, both countries expressed intent to establish a partnership on advanced and small modular nuclear reactors. Macron’s upcoming visit underlines the expanding strategic partnership between India and France across defence, technology, and global governance.

Bangladesh: Security tightened around Rohingya camps ahead of election
On 10 February, The Daily Star reported that, according to Lieutenant Colonel Tanveer Ahmed, security has been strengthened in and around Rohingya camps as well as across the wider Cox’s Bazar region ahead of the upcoming 13th national election. Speaking at a briefing, he said that the additional security measures have been taken inside and around the camps to ensure a peaceful election. Along with that, extra army personnel have been deployed, the number of checkpoints has been significantly increased, damaged fencing has been repaired, and regular as well as long-range patrols are being conducted.

Bangladesh Elections: BNP secures landslide victory with 209 out of the 297 seats with two-thirds majority; the July Charter proposing parliamentary reforms backed by the winning BNP
On 13 February, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by Tarique Rahman secured a landslide victory of 209 out of the 297 seats in the first elections since the 2024 student-led uprising that ousted the previous Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. Jamaat-e-Islami, previously banned under the Hasina government, secured its largest win with 68 seats, emerging as the main opposition in the 350-member parliament, Jatiya Sangsad, of which 50 members are nominated. The National Citizen Party (NCP), initiated by the student protestors in 2024, finished third with six seats in alliance with the Jamaat. Its leader, Nahid Islam emerged as one of the youngest members of the new parliament. The voter turnout stood at 59.88 per cent and a court has barred the publication of results for the Chattogram?3 and Chattogram?8 constituencies. The BNP stated that it would forgo celebratory rallies and instead hold nationwide prayers at mosques at noon. Tarique Rahman, son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, is anticipated to become the next prime minister. Rahman returned from self-imposed exile in the UK weeks before the election, having left Bangladesh in 2008 citing political persecution. The election on 12 February had two ballots, a white one for parliamentary elections and a pink one for a referendum on the July National Charter. According to the Election Commission, 60.26 per cent voted in favour of the charter. Drafted by the caretaker government led by Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus after student protests, the charter proposes over 80 reforms, including greater women’s political representation, term limits for the prime minister, enhanced presidential powers, expanded fundamental rights and stronger judicial independence. The charter recommends creating a 100-member upper chamber alongside Bangladesh’s current single parliamentary body, the 350-member parliament. The BNP declared that it will back the implementation of the charter.

Nepal: Monarchists rally for Nepal's former king ahead of elections
On 13 February, thousands of monarchists rallied in Kathmandu to welcome Nepal’s last king, Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, upon his return from a three-month holiday in eastern Nepal, chanting “King, come and save the country” ahead of 05 March parliamentary elections. The 78-year-old ex-king has lived as a private citizen since 2008, after a Maoist-led assembly abolished the 240-year monarchy and declared Nepal a secular republic; the nation has since seen 14 governments. Nepal is set to face its first election since the September 2025 anti-corruption protests killed 77 people and forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign. A royalist coalition pushes to reinstate a constitutional monarchy among 65 parties vying for 275 seats. Nepal has had nearly one million new youth voters, marking a new milestone after the last year of turmoil.

Nepal: National Assembly retracts bill on social network usage
On 09 February, The Himalayan reported that the National Assembly (NA) unanimously passed a decision to withdraw a bill on social networks use and management. NA Chairman Narayan Dahal presented the bill for decision and later informed that it was withdrawn unanimously. Chairperson of the Legislation Management Committee, Tulasa Dahal, had earlier presented the Committee report on the bill in the NA meeting. As many as 155 amendments proposals were filed by 35 NA members during the Committee meeting. On 03 February, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology decided to withdraw the bill and requested that the parliament reconsider it.

Nepal: Passport climbs to 95th in global mobility ranking
On 13 February, The Kathmandu Post reported improvement in Nepal’s passport index score, climbing to 95th place in the latest Henley Passport Index rankings released on Thursday. The country had ranked 101st last year and 103rd in 2024, reflecting a gradual upward trend. According to the index, which measures how many destinations passport holders can access without a prior visa, the Nepali passport now provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 35 destinations. Within South Asia, the Maldives holds the strongest passport, followed by India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. Nepal ranks ahead of Pakistan and Afghanistan but slightly behind other regional peers.

Nepal: New Chinese ambassador arrives in Kathmandu
On 13 February, The Kathmandu Post reported that the new Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming arrived in Kathmandu on Friday to take up his diplomatic assignment. Officials received him from the foreign ministry and the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Zhang was one of the deputy directors at the Department of Asian Affairs at the Chinese foreign ministry before being appointed the ambassador in Kathmandu. He replaced Chen Song, who had already returned to China after completing his three-year tenure and getting a promotion.

Sri Lanka: UN receives USD 22.4 million for Ditwah victims
On 09 February, The Island reported that according to the United Nations (UN) office in Colombo, the United Nations’ Humanitarian Priorities Plan (HPP), launched in December 2025 to aid those affected by Cyclone Ditwah, has received USD 22.4 million in funding to date. According to the latest UN update, more than 216,000 people have benefited from the HPP, which is being implemented by 68 partner organisations across all 25 districts. Cyclone Ditwah caused the worst flooding and landslide damage in Sri Lanka in two decades, affecting around 2.2 million people. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reports 646 deaths and 173 missing persons as of 29 December 2025. Under the HPP, the UN Humanitarian Country Team is supporting government-led coordination across sectors including education, food security, agriculture and nutrition, health, protection, shelter, and early recovery.

Sri Lanka and Oman: Royal Navy of Oman vessel arrives at Port of Colombo
On 10 February, The Island reported that the Royal Navy of Oman Vessel “SADH” arrived at the Port of Colombo on a logistics replenishment visit today. The Sri Lankan Navy welcomed the visiting ship in compliance with naval traditions. The 75m long ship is commanded by Lieutenant Commander Shaheen Saud Abdul Rahman AI Balushi. The port call will facilitate professional interaction and goodwill exchanges between the two navies. During the stay in Colombo, crew members of the ship are expected to visit some tourist attractions in the city of Colombo

Pakistan and Malaysia: Navy chief discusses maritime security with Malaysian Navy leadership
On 08 February, Dawn reported that the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, held discussions on coordinated responses to maritime security challenges with the leadership of the Malaysian Navy during an official visit to Malaysia. “Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf paid an official visit to Malaysia and called on the leadership of the Royal Malaysian Navy. He was received at Royal Malaysian Navy Headquarters by Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, and was accorded a Guard of Honour,” an ISPR statement said. The statement also added that Admiral Asharf discussed ways to enhance operational cooperation and capacity building, and align strategic perspectives. The visit was meant to reaffirm an “enduring Pakistan-Malaysian naval partnership”, according to the statement.

Pakistan: FM Aurangzeb and World Bank review CPF priorities, stress delivery and performance tracking
On 09 February, Dawn reported that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met World Bank Operations Managing Director Anna Bjerde on the sidelines of the emerging markets conference in Saudi Arabia to review progress under the country partnership framework and discuss development priorities, including energy, education, health, climate resilience, debt-for-development swaps, fiscal reforms, and infrastructure. The report said that both parties agreed to set a focused strategy that would use performance indicators and effective execution systems to achieve their goals. Bjerde confirmed that the World Bank remains committed to supporting Pakistan through its USD 20 billion 10-year development initiative. It added that Aurangzeb also separately engaged with the Saudi economy and planning minister Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim to discuss Saudi investments and collaboration on leveraging Pakistani technology talent.

Pakistan and Afghanistan: President Zardari compares the current situation with Afghanistan "similar to or worse than pre-9/11"; calls for collective international action
On 09 February, The Express Tribune reported that President Asif Ali Zardari warned that Afghanistan under the Taliban has descended into conditions “similar to or worse than pre-9/11.” In a statement issued by the President's Secretariat, Zardari warned that terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil pose grave threats to regional and global peace, calling for collective international action. He said conditions under the Taliban mirrored or worsened the pre-9/11 environment, stressing that terrorism cannot be tackled in isolation. He added that certain neighbouring countries had "regrettably become partners in crime" by allowing terrorist elements to operate against Pakistan from their territory, while some provided direct financial as well as military support, accusing India of engagement with the Taliban and threatening regional and global peace. President Zardari said international messages of sympathy had comforted Pakistanis and reinforced that combating terrorism and violent ideology is a shared global responsibility. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with international partners to end terrorism and reiterated Islamabad’s stance that Afghan soil has repeatedly been used by militant groups to attack Pakistani civilians and security forces.

Pakistan: FM Dar emphasises importance of expanding trade with EU
On 09 February, Dawn reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar underscored the importance of expanding trade and economic ties with the European Union (EU), highlighting that the bloc remains a vital economic partner for Pakistan, particularly under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP-Plus) framework. He delivered these statements while chairing a high-level inter-ministerial meeting to review the current economic relationship with the EU. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fully meeting its obligations under the framework and further expanding mutually beneficial trade between the two.

Pakistan: To invest USD one billion in AI by 2030, says PM Sharif
On 09 February, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the government’s plan to invest USD one billion in artificial intelligence (AI) by 2030. PM Sharif spoke at the Indus AI Week 2026, where he said that Pakistan aims to keep pace with modern technologies and that an AI curriculum would be introduced in all schools. He also announced that the government would provide 1000 fully-funded PhD scholarships in AI by 2030 and launch a nationwide programme to train one million non-IT professionals in AI skills. “Pakistan is absolutely ready to accept the challenge and walk with our global partners, absolutely with great commitment and dedication,” he said. The government had approved the National AI Policy in July last year, but the policy’s implementation stalled for six months due to a government decision to amend the composition of the AI Council and a lack of response from provincial governments.

Pakistan: PM Shehbaz to represent Pakistan at the first Board of Peace session in Washington
On 12 February, Dawn reported that the Foreign Office (FO) confirmed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in the United States, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, with further details of the delegation to be shared later. The report said Pakistan is a founding member of the US-backed body, which was formally established last month and is set to meet on 19 February in Washington, with the board mandated to address global conflicts and, under a UN Security Council resolution, authorised to work with cooperating states on post-ceasefire stabilisation arrangements in Gaza. It added that Islamabad said it joined the board in good faith as part of a collective engagement with Islamic and Arab countries, while acknowledging criticism over the board’s structure and representation.

Pakistan: Launch of second indigenous EO-2 satellite from China's space centre
On 12 February, Dawn reported that Pakistan launched its second indigenous earth observation satellite, EO-2. It was developed by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and launched from China’s Yangjiang Seashore Launch Centre. It will help Pakistan to enhance the country's earth observation and high-resolution imaging capabilities and will strengthen governance, disaster management, and climate analysis. Earlier on 7 February, the Astronauts Centre of China had officially shortlisted two candidates for astronaut training from Pakistan, with one ultimately selected to travel to Tiangong Space Station.

Bhutan: Invest Bhutan Summit opens
On 12 February, Kuensel reported that the Invest Bhutan Summit had attracted strong international interest, drawing 71 foreign investors from 11 countries in sectors such as IT and digital infrastructure, agro-based industries, tourism and wellness ventures, and solar technologies. Designed as a key platform to enhance Bhutan's visibility as an investment destination, the two-day summit aims to foster greater foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows by bringing together foreign investors, Bhutanese entrepreneurs, and government agencies on a single platform to unlock high-potential investment opportunities.

Maldives: Tourist arrivals that reached a record in a single day have been shattered within a week
On 10 February, Sun Online reported that, as tourist arrivals to the Maldives continue to increase, on Sunday the country recorded the highest single-day total, surpassing the record set on 01 February. The Maldives welcomed 10,462 tourists on Sunday, which surpassed 10,253 arrivals set on 01 February, according to the data released by the Tourism Ministry. In comparison to last year, the tourist level increased by 5.6 per cent.

MIDDLE EAST THIS WEEK
The US and Iran Tensions: Tehran’s top advisor Larijani meets Oman’s ruler Sultan Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat; Iran rejects missile curbs as Netanyahu pushes Trump on a wider Iran deal
On 10 February, Ali Larijani, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary and top advisor, met Oman’s ruler Sultan Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat following the US-Iran nuclear talks. The discussions focused on the negotiations’ latest developments and ways to reach a “balanced and just” agreement. Larijani was also set to meet Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, the chief mediator, with talks also covering regional issues and strengthening Iran-Oman ties. On the same day, Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson stated that the nuclear talks with the US clarified that there was enough consensus to continue on the diplomatic track and helped Tehran gauge Washington's seriousness.

On 11 February, Iran’s senior security official Ali Shamkhani said Tehran’s missile capabilities are a non-negotiable “red line” and will not be included in upcoming talks with the United States, insisting it will only discuss its nuclear programme in return for relief to sanctions levied on the country. He argued missiles are vital for deterrence after past wars and accused Washington and its allies of trying to weaken Iran’s defences while maintaining their own arsenals. The same day, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to urge President Trump at the White House to broaden Iran diplomacy beyond nuclear issues to cover ballistic missiles and Tehran’s support for regional proxies, warning that a narrow deal could leave core Israeli security concerns unaddressed. Trump, who has deployed additional US forces to the region and threatened “very tough” measures if talks fail, faces competing pressures as he weighs the scope of any potential agreement.

US and Syria: Washington hands over strategic al-Tanf base to Damascus
On 13 February, the US completed its withdrawal from the strategic al-Tanf military base in Syria and formally handed control to Syrian government forces. The base, located near the Syria-Jordan-Iraq tri-border area, had been established in 2014 during Syria’s civil war and later became a key hub for US-led operations against the Islamic State group. Over time, al-Tanf also served as a strategic position to monitor Iranian influence and weapons routes across the region. US officials stated that forces remain ready to counter any revival of the Islamic State, even after the pullout. Analysts, however, have raised concerns about whether Syrian forces can effectively manage security responsibilities and prevent extremist resurgence in the region.

The War in Gaza: Trump to announce Gaza funding, troop plan at first Board of Peace meeting
On 13 February, Reuters reported that President Trump aims to announce his reconstruction program for Gaza, which will cost several billion dollars during his first Board of Peace meeting on 19 February in Washington. Approximately 20 countries are expected to send delegations to the event. Trump is expected to share the board members' funding agreements and reveal the upcoming troop deployments from different countries that will join the international stabilization force in Gaza. Hamas fighters who have surrendered their weapons will gain amnesty, and those who choose to leave Gaza will receive safe passage. The meeting will assess the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza's progress, evaluate how humanitarian aid reaches people, and how Gaza’s police force will be reinstated.

AFRICA THIS WEEK
Sudan: RSF's actions in El Fasher amount to crimes against humanity, says the UNHCR
On 12 February, the United Nations Human Rights Office stated that human rights violations committed by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during their October 2025 capture of Sudan’s Darfur city of El-Fasher amounted to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity in clear violations of international law frameworks. Based on interviews with over 140 victims and witnesses in Sudan’s northern state and eastern Chad in late 2025, the report documented more than 6,000 killings in the first three days of the RSF offensive after a long siege that led to mass casualties. RSF committed “widespread atrocities that amount to war crimes and possible crimes against humanity,” the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said. The UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk renewed his call on conflict parties to end grave violations by their forces and urged influential states to respect the existing arms embargo and halt arms supplies to prevent the repetition of El-Fasher abuses.

EUROPE THIS WEEK
The US and NATO: Washington reassures commitment to NATO, urges Brussels to increase defence spending
On 09 February, US NATO Ambassador Matthew Whitaker stated that the United States is not seeking to weaken NATO or the existing global order. He added it aims to strengthen transatlantic cooperation amid rising security challenges. Speaking ahead of key European security discussions, Whitaker emphasised that Washington remains committed to the alliance while expecting European members to take greater responsibility for their own defence. He urged European countries to increase defence spending and contribute more actively to collective security, especially in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine and growing concerns over Russia’s activities in the Arctic and eastern Europe. His statement is seen as an effort to reassure allies that the US remains engaged in NATO, while reinforcing calls for a more balanced sharing of defence responsibilities within the alliance.

Europe: Macron asks EU to act as a global power or risk becoming “vassals”
On 10 February, French President Emmanuel Macron, warned that Europe is facing a “profound geopolitical rupture” and Europe's relations with the US, China, and Russia are changing quickly. During an interview in European newspapers, Macron stated that Europe can no longer count on others so much he said Europe must stop relying too much on other powers and should take decisions independently or there is a risk of becoming “vassals.” He stated that this is a “wake-up call,” considering the tensions with the US, Ukraine, and also competition with China. Macron proposed increased European integration by borrowing Euro Bonds to raise around EUR 1.2 trillion annually for defence, clean energy, and artificial intelligence. He also suggested that Europe open diplomatic channels with Russia, independent of the US, while still supporting Ukraine. He said that Europe responds too slowly to a crisis and needs to show more leadership.

NATO and the Arctic: NATO begins new mission to strengthen presence in the Arctic following Trump’s threat to acquire Greenland
On 11 February, NATO stated that it has begun a new mission, named Arctic Sentry, to strengthen its presence in the Arctic as part of an agreement to defuse severe tensions prompted by President Trump’s threats to acquire Greenland. The new mission will coordinate the increasing military presence of NATO allies in the region, including exercises such as Denmark's "Arctic Endurance on Greenland", the alliance's military headquarters said in a statement. "Arctic Sentry underscores the Alliance's commitment to safeguard its members and maintain stability in one of the world’s most strategically significant and environmentally challenging areas," stated US Air Force General Alexus G. Grynkewich, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe. "It will leverage NATO's strength to protect our territory and ensure the Arctic and High North remains secure,” he added. NATO began planning the mission after talks between President Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Davos, during tensions over Greenland triggered by Trump’s assertion that the US should own the territory. They agreed NATO would take a larger role in Arctic security, while Denmark, the US and Greenland continue discussions. The UK’s Defence Minister John Healey stated that UK forces would play a key role in NATO’s Arctic Sentry mission. The UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) also plans major exercises in the High North in September, deploying hundreds of personnel across Iceland, the Danish Straits and Norway. The JEF comprises Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

The UK: Starmer to propose multinational defence initiative with western allies; London to raise defence spending to 2.6 per cent of GDP from 2027
On 13 February, the Financial Times reported that the UK’s Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is set to propose a multinational defence initiative at the Munich Security Conference, involving London and its western allies. The initiative “could oversee joint weapons procurement and drive down the costs of rearmament.” He is expected to call for closer defence cooperation with allies in a speech on Saturday and in private talks with leaders at the three-day event. Starmer has also signalled interest in reviving discussions on the UK joining the EU’s Security Action for Europe rearmament scheme, alongside exploring broader cooperation on defence spending and capabilities. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she aims to work with Western partners to reduce rearmament costs and deliver joint defence projects more efficiently. “We are absolutely taking those ideas forward, many European finance ministers and defence ministers are keen to seize the opportunity there,” Reeves stated. On the same day, the government stated that the UK’s spending on long-range and hypersonic weapons will exceed USD 545 million in the current financial year. The UK plans to raise defence spending to 2.6 per cent of GDP from 2027, its highest level since the end of the Cold War, with a longer-term goal of 5 per cent by 2035. It is also advancing separate long-range missile programmes with Germany and France, and with Italy. Finance Minister John Healey is expected to hold bilateral meetings with allies at the Munich Security Conference.

AMERICAS THIS WEEK
The US: Vice President Vance travels to Armenia and Azerbaijan to promote a peace corridor and trade connectivity
On 09 February, the US Vice President JD Vance, arrived in Armenia, followed by Azerbaijan, as part of an effort to strengthen a peace process between Yerevan and Baku, which is mediated by the US. This came after the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed to a pact at the White House six months ago, which is a move to bring an end to the nearly decade-long conflict between the two countries over Nagorno-Karabakh. A very significant part of this trip will involve the suggested route of Trump: International Peace and Prosperity. The corridor has the potential to redefine the energy and trade routes between Asia and Europe and assist Western countries in bypassing Russia and Iran. In addition, access to critical minerals based in Central Asia also has the potential to be discussed. While there is some progress, political issues are a block to peace.

The US and Canada: President Trump threatens to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
On 10 February, President Trump threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of Michigan, until Washington is fully compensated for everything it has given to Canada and is treated with the fairness and respect it deserves. He also blamed former President Obama for allowing the construction of the bridge without using any US steel and accused Canada of wholly owning the bridge. Windsor Mayor Dilkens stated that the accusation was wrong. Michigan Senator Slotkin and Governor Whitmer, criticized President Trump’s move remarking that this infrastructure project is of incredible importance for Michigan’s economy and for jobs in the state. The bridge which is estimated to have cost CAD 6.4 billion is being funded by the Canadian government but will be publicly owned by both Canada and Michigan. The organisation developing the bridge, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, is wholly owned by the Canadian government.

About the TWTW Team
Adwitiyo Das is an undergraduate student at the Department of International Relations, Peace Studies and Public Policy, St Joseph's University.

Aishwarya D Pai and Tonica Sharon C are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru.

Akshath Kaimal is a Research Assistant at NIAS.

Brighty Ann Sarah and R Preetha are postgraduate students at the Department of International Studies, Stella Maris College, Chennai.

Lekshmi MK is a postgraduate student at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai.

Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair and Yesasvi Koganti are undergraduate students at the Department of Political Science, Madras Christian College, Chennai.

Sakshi Yadav is a postgraduate student at the Department of International Studies, Political Science, and History, Christ University, Bengaluru.

Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha is an undergraduate student double-majoring in BSc Clinical Psychology and BA Political Science at the School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bengaluru.

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