The World This Week #310-311

CWA # 1677

The World This Week

The World This Week #310-311

China in Latin America and the Carribbean I Trump's Middle East Visit I Denmark as the new Arctic Chair

The World This Week #310 &311, Vol. 7 No. 19 &20, 18 May 2025

GP Team
18 May 2025

Photo Source: Xinhua

China-CELAC forum: Strengthening ties with Latin America and Caribbean
Gauri Gupta

What happened?
On 13 May, China’s President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote address titled “Writing a New Chapter in Building a China-LAC Community with a Shared Future” at the Fourth Ministerial Meeting of the China-CELAC Forum. He was joined by Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro, the current CELAC chairperson, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Chile’s President Gabriel Boric, and other heads of delegations from LAC countries and regional organizations. Xi emphasized “independence and autonomy is their glorious tradition, development and revitalization is their inherent right, and fairness and justice is their common pursuit.”

President Xi launched five major cooperation programs: Solidarity, Development, Civilization, Peace, and People-to-People Connectivity. Under the Solidarity Program, China pledged continued support on matters of core interest and invited 300 CELAC political party members annually to China for three years. The Development Program focused on implementing the Global Development Initiative, expanding Belt and Road cooperation, and increasing imports and investments. The Civilization Program will enhance civilizational dialogue and uphold human values through the Global Civilization Initiative. The Peace Program aims to deepen cooperation in security, cybersecurity, anti-corruption, and transnational crime under the Global Security Initiative. The People-to-People Connectivity Program announced 3,500 scholarships, 10,000 training opportunities and 300 small livelihood programs.

On 14 May, China and Colombia signed a deal on BRI. The deal emphasizes jointly building the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st century Maritime Silk Road. Xi also pledged USD 9.2 billion in credit towards “development.”

On 15 May, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced free visa exemptions for five LAC countries: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru & Uruguay for up to 30 days from 01 June, 2025 to 31 May, 2026 for non-commercial purposes.

What is the background?
First a brief note on China-CELAC Forum. Established in July 2014 at the China-Latin America and Caribbean Summit in Brasília, the Forum today covers the entire Latin America and Caribbean region. During January 2015 its first ministerial meeting was held in Beijing. It has served as the principal channel and has evolved into an essential multilateral tool driving robust cooperation among China and CELAC's 33 member nations. The Forum has hosted over 100 major events, including 31 thematic sub-forums and three ministerial engagements, reflecting a sustained commitment to institutional dialogue and cooperation.

Second, Beijing’s political and economic investments in the region. China had announced a USD 35 billion financing package in 2014, comprising a USD 10 billion Preferential Loan, a USD 20 billion Special Infrastructure Loan, and a USD 5 billion China-LAC Cooperation Fund. More than 200 infrastructure projects have been effectively executed employing over one million people and significantly increasing regional and industrial capacity connectivity. China has signed five free trade agreements with Latin American countries: Chile, Peru, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Nicaragua, opening up market access and reducing tariff barriers, marking trade as a corner-stone of cooperation. In 2024 trade between China and LAC countries exceeded USD 500 billion for the first time, an increase of over 40 times from the beginning of this century.

China has voted for 32 United Nations resolutions against the US embargo of Cuba and has demonstrated its solidarity with local causes. China and Brazil jointly issued a six-point common understanding on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, which has been endorsed by more than 110 countries, contributing wisdom and strength to resolving international hotspot issues.

Third, the BRI inroads. The Belt and Road Initaitive has also been aligned with national development plans. For example Peru's Chancay Port, making strategic infrastructure synergy stronger. China has been proactively engaged in MERCOSUR, CARICOM, and ALBA-TCP as an observer, and contributed to climate, biodiversity, and satellite cooperation frameworks, including offering 80 percent of its Special Infrastructure Loan undertakings. These actions demonstrate the greater strategic confidence and all-around cooperation between China and CELAC.

Fourth, cooperation on non-military issues. China has collaborated on disaster prevention, mitigation and relief and on joint response to hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters. China has donated 300 million doses of vaccines, 40 million units of medical supplies and equipment, and dispatched 38 medical teams to the Caribbean States. Additionally, China has also signed 26 educational agreements with 19 LAC countries, granted 17,000 scholarships and 13,000 professional training slots, and 68 Confucius Institutes were opened across Latin America and Caribbean states.

What does it mean?
The China-CELAC Forum is a comprehensive framework for institutionalized cooperation between China and the Latin American and Caribbean region with a view to withstanding the test of time and adapting to emerging global challenges. The Forum's flexible structure allows each country to participate based on its needs and priorities, encouraging tailored development. It also helps in diversifying regional partnerships, reduces dependence on traditional powers, and empowers CELAC countries to pursue strategic autonomy. It expands soft power through education, culture, and digital infrastructure outreach. Its long-term relevance lies in making China a consistent and responsive partner in regional modernization and governance reform.

Trump’s visit to the Middle East
Aashish Ganeshan

What happened?
On 13 May, the US President Trump embarked on a high-profile Middle East tour to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and, unexpectedly, Syria. In Riyadh, Trump attended a US-Saudi Arabia business roundtable and secured deals worth more than $500 billion that centered on defense, energy, and collaborative investment ventures. In Doha, he was the first American president to pay a state visit to Qatar, signing a $42 billion defense contract, together with civil aviation accords and upgrades to Al Udeid Air Base. In Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the United States announced a visionary technology partnership, including the annual sale of 500,000 Nvidia artificial intelligence chips and the creation of joint AI research centers.

Trump's also visited Damascus, and met the interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. He lifted all American sanctions, offering a "new beginning" in return for diminished Iranian influence and possible normalization with Israel.

What is the background?
First, the US-Saudi Arabia relations. Both the U.S. and Saudi Arabia have historically enjoyed a security-oriented alliance based on oil diplomacy and weapons trade. Trump's 2025 visit saw more than $500 billion worth of agreements, including co-investments in energy, infrastructure, and military modernization. At the center was the extension of the US-Saudi Strategic Vision 2030 alliance.

Second, the US-Qatar relations. Qatar is America's most significant defense ally in the Gulf, with the Al Udeid Air Base. Trump's unprecedented state visit to Doha—the first by any sitting or past American president—featured the signing of a $42 billion defense deal to upgrade Qatar's forces and enhance Al Udeid's capabilities, along with civil aviation, finance, AI integration, and education.

Third, the US-UAE relations. The UAE has become an innovation and investment leader for the US the Middle East. A record AI and semiconductor cooperation agreement was signed under Trump's May 15–16 visit to Abu Dhabi, in which the US will provide 500,000 Nvidia chips per annum to the UAE. The two countries also signed an agreement to set up a shared AI research center, which was to have hubs in Abu Dhabi and Austin. The sovereign wealth funds of the UAE committed more than $50 billion for co-investment in U.S. infrastructure and clean tech".

Fourth, US and Syria. One of the most surprising moments of Trump's 2025 Middle East visit was his meeting with Syria's acting president, Ahmed al-Sharaa. A veteran commander of a Syrian opposition group who once had ties to al-Qaeda's Syrian affiliate Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Sharaa became Syria's leader of the transitional government after Bashar al-Assad's unpublicized departure late in 2024 amid Russian and Middle Eastern pressure.

Trump had supposedly promised phased relief from sanctions and reconstruction aid in return for Syria agreeing to pull out Iranian military forces, grant Western counterterrorism access, and consider normalization with the Gulf and Western powers. Critics in Europe and Washington saw the irony and danger of giving legitimacy to a militant with a history, but Trump justified the engagement as more about placing American interests first rather than moral absolutism.

Fifth, Trump and the Abraham Accords. The Abraham Accords, led by Trump during his previous term normalized Israeli diplomatic relations with several Arab states, most notably the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco. The agreements were welcomed as a revolutionary reshuffling of Middle Eastern alliances, redirecting the region from traditional Arab-Israeli enmity to mutual interests in containing Iran, economic modernization, and American-led investment. While the Accords faltered during the Biden presidency, Trump's 2025 return to the Middle East marks a fresh effort to enlarge and enshrine them. Trump conveyed in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi his determination to bring other Arab states—perhaps even Saudi Arabia—into the normalization process.

What does it mean?
First, the timing and motive of Trump's Middle East tour. Donald Trump's trip to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE was made during an effort to reassert the US dominance in a region increasingly wooed by China and Russia. His unexpected sit-down with Syria's interim president Al-Sharaa marks a turn toward realpolitik at the expense of dogmatic ideological posturing.

Second, strategic alignment and recalibrated loyalties. The bilateral communiqués following Trump's meetings with Saudi, Qatari, and Emirati leaders unveiled convergent strategic interests. All three states indicated a desire to deepen cooperation in the framework of the Abraham Accords and upheld their commitments to counter-terrorism, regional stability, and the US led technological development.

Arctic Council: Denmark takes over the Chair amid geopolitical tensions
Padmashree Anandhan

What happened?
On 12 May, the 14th Arctic Council meeting was held virtually, marking the end of Norway’s chairship between 2023 and 2025. Representatives from the eight Arctic States and six Indigenous Permanent Participants took part in the session, which ended with the release of the Romssa-Tromsø Statement. The joint declaration affirmed the Council’s commitment to peace, stability and cooperation in the Arctic region. Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs said: “In a challenging time for Arctic cooperation, I am pleased that the Arctic Council remains united.”

According to the Arctic Council report: “Arctic States and Permanent Participants emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration through the Arctic Council, highlighting the Council’s nearly three-decade legacy as the preeminent forum for circumpolar cooperation. They also reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the region’s environmental, social, and human challenges, with the well-being of Arctic communities—and particularly Indigenous Peoples—at the center of its mission.”

On 12 May, Denmark assumed the Arctic Council chairmanship following the end of Norway’s term. The US and Russia have not issued major statements; however, prior to the Arctic Council Meeting, the US assured its commitment to Arctic cooperation through a resolution 167, emphasising the need for increased collaboration among Arctic Council member states. Whereas Russia’s Foreign Ministry indicated its readiness for dialogue on Arctic agenda if “conducted on an equal and mutually beneficial basis.”

What is the background?
First, a brief on the Arctic Council. The Arctic Council in an intergovernmental forum formed in 1996 to promote cooperation and interaction among the Arctic states, Indigenous communities and Arctic residents on issues mainly relating to sustainable development and environmental protection. Its eight member states include Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the US, along with six Indigenous Permanent Participant organizations and 35 observers, including non-Arctic countries, intergovernmental organizations and NGOs. The Council operates through six working groups with ministerial meetings every two years to set its priorities and review the progress. Its focus so far has been away from geopolitics. Following the war in Ukraine, it has faced immense pressure, resulting in the suspension of direct cooperation with Russia.

Second, Arctic and the geopolitical background. The geopolitical tensions after war in Ukraine and Trump’s presidency have heightened with increased presence of NATO, China and Russia. Trump’s proposal to purchase Greenland underlines the US’s focus on increasing its influence in the Arctic, raising concerns among the Nordic partners. Simultaneously, China’s growing investments in scientific stations, infrastructure investments and strategic partnership with Russia under the “Near-Arctic State” label threaten the Arctic governance. Following the war in Ukraine and isolation by the West, Russia has also increased its military and economic engagement in the Northern Sea Route. Another major addition would be NATO’s expansion through surveillance and infrastructure development from Finland and Sweden’s accession. All combined has led militarization of the Arctic and heightened concerns over Arctic peace and environment among the Arctic Council members and observer states.

Third, takeaways from Norway’s chairship of the Arctic Council. During its chairship, Norway focused on “The oceans, climate and environment, sustainable economic development, and people in the North.” Amid the war in Ukraine and Arctic council members pausing the cooperation under Russia’s chairship, Norway became the bridge between the stalled Arctic Council cooperation and focused on maintaining the operations of the council without disruption, setting the stage for a smooth transition to Denmark. Its initiatives on wildfire management, Arctic Ocean Research Cruise II helped in circumpolar collaboration but the absence of full participation of all Arctic Council member states remained a major gap. It showcased the limitations of the Arctic Council to address the geopolitical issue.

What does this mean?
Responding to the growing geopolitical tensions and maintaining the Council’s operations a challenge to Denmark. The chairship comes at a critical time, which calls for strong diplomatic efforts to tackle the high-level geopolitical challenges. The Arctic cooperation remains stalled without Russia’s participation and Denmark holds the responsibility to manoeuvre the polarized Council. Apart from this, its internal dynamics with Greenland (call for independence) make it more complex for Denmark to have a stronger voice in the Arctic governance. At the external, responding to increased military activity of NATO, US-China rivalry and Russia’s aggression while balancing the Indigenous rights and preserving the consensus among the Council would be the major challenges for Denmark.

TWTW Regional Roundups

News from around the world
Padmashree Anandhan, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Rohini Reenum, Femy Francis, Anu Maria Joseph, R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah, Gauri Gupta, Merin Treesa Alex

CHINA THIS WEEK
China: Lifts Boeing delivery ban amid easing trade tensions with the US
On 13 May, China lifted its ban on receiving Boeing aircraft after a US-China agreement to temporarily reduce mutual tariffs, according to Bloomberg News. This decision allows Chinese airlines to resume taking delivery of planes made in the US, a move not publicly confirmed by China's Civil Aviation Administration or Boeing. Boeing had earlier stated that China refused to accept new aircraft due to high tariffs, forcing the company to reconsider selling dozens of jets. In April, Boeing repatriated at least three aircrafts from its Chinese delivery center back to the US. Although there was no formal ban announced, senior industry sources were unaware of any official directive halting deliveries. China accounts for around 10 percent of Boeing’s commercial backlog, making it a vital aviation market. Boeing had expected to deliver 50 jets to China in 2025, with 41 already built or in production.

China: US ocean cargo bookings jump by 300 percent after tariff rollback
On 15 May, CGTN reported that China-US ocean cargo bookings have increased sharply, after tariff negotiations. China-US container cargo booking surged by 300 percent, reports Vice President of Strategic Business Development, Ben Tracy. Bookings had previously slowed down after the 02 April tariffs by the US President on Chinese imports, but business rebounded after a decision between the two nations to lower tariffs was taken. German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd reported 50 percent week-on-week growth in China-US traffic bookings.

China: PLA to host 100 African military officers from 40 countries
On 10 May, SCMP reported that China will train 100 mid-career African military officers from 40 countries. This is part of PLA’s long-term strategy to deepen its defense ties across the continent, notes SCMP. The delegation will stay till 15 May, learning China's military systems and technology. Stimson Centre, Director of China programme Sun Yun, called the officers the “future pillars of military leadership in African countries.” This programme is the fourth of its kind organized by China’s Ministry of National Defence with the National University of Defense Technology in Changsha, Hunan province.

China: Russia sign a new space deal to build a power plant on the moon
On 14 May, Live Science reported on a deal signed between Russia and China to build a power plant on the Moon. According to the MoU signed between the two countries, a Russian reactor will be used to power the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) jointly led by China by 2036. According to the Director General of the Russian Space Agency Roscosmos, Yury Borisov, the construction will be carried out “without the presence of humans”. Following the signing of the MoU, Roscosmos stated that the space station will carry out tests and research “with the prospects of a human being’s presence on the Moon.”

China: Develops advanced ocean microscope, reports SCMP
On 13 May, SCMP reported on China developing LICOMK++, the world’s most advanced ocean simulation system with a 1 km resolution. This breaks the computational limits for modelling global ocean dynamics and climate patterns with incredible accuracy. The "ocean microscope" is created by the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Atmospheric Physics and Computer Network Information Centre. The microscope will help improve predictions for extreme weather events like typhoons and marine heatwaves. SCMP notes that despite US semiconductor export controls, this system marks a significant advancement in high-performance computing, aiding global climate research and disaster response strategies. The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating energy and carbon in the climate system, absorbing over 90 percent of the additional heat from global warming and more than 30 percent of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC THIS WEEK
North Korea: UNGA to hold talks on human rights violations in North Korea
On 12 May, Korea Times reported that the UN General Assembly announced its decision to hold its first high-level meeting on 20 May that would to address human rights abuses and violations by North Korea. This is the first time the UNGA is conducting a high-level meeting on North Korea’s human rights conditions; the last discussion on this subject was in 2014, hosted by the South Korean and US governments with the office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

South Korea: South Korea- NATO evaluate security in Korean peninsula; to increase defense cooperation
On 12 May, Korea Times reported on the third round of military talks between South Korea and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in Seoul. The meeting mainly focused on strengthening defense cooperation and evaluated the security conditions in the Korean Peninsula. It also reassured the international community of the need for a joint response against military threats by North Korea, especially in light of Pyongyang’s strengthened military alignment with Russia.

South Korea: Holds discussions with Malaysia for a Free Trade Agreement
On 13 May, Korea Times reported that South Korea and Malaysia held their ninth round of negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement in Kuala Lumpur, with over 70 officials discussing key trade areas. The report stated that the countries are planning to make progress in eight areas, such as market access for goods and services and economic cooperation. Negotiations resumed in March 2024 after a five-year hiatus. Korea already has a Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN and aims to strengthen individual trade deals with member states. The report mentioned that an FTA with Malaysia would help Korean companies improve competitiveness and eliminate potential risks prompted by US tariffs.

Japan: Russian drills prompt protests in Japan
On 15 May, Japan Times reported on Russia’s plan to conduct live-fire drills near Shikotan Island, in waters Japan considers its territory. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary stated that the government has protested against the drills, emphasizing that the military buildup contradicts Japan’s stance and is “unacceptable.”

SOUTHEAST AND SOUTH ASIA THIS WEEK
Myanmar: Workers from the Adidas factory stage a sit-in strike for demanding higher wages
On 16 May, 4000 workers from a factory in Yangon, which manufactures shoes for Adidas, have staged a sit-in strike protesting for higher wages. The Tsang Yih Shoe Factory in Hlaing Tharyar is one of the largest producers for Adidas, and has around 6800 employees. Their daily wages come to around USD 1.20 at the market rate. A formal complaint was issued to the labour office and even negotiated, but that did not help them. An official from the Federation of General Workers Myanmar said that many of the factory workers need a pay increase, and over 1200 workers are on strike demanding an increase in wages. In response to the protests, within 24 hours, all of them were laid off.

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s sons urge global pressure over father’s “inhumane” prison condition
On 14 May, Dawn reported that Imran Khan’s sons, Suleman and Qasim, have publicly addressed their father’s imprisonment for the first time in an interview with influencer Mario Nawfal. Khan has been jailed since August 2023 over a 190 million pound corruption case and faces anti-terror charges linked to the 9 May 2023 riots. The brothers informed that the court had allowed weekly phone calls with their father in November 2023, but the calls are irregular, brief, and infrequent. They claimed that Khan is being held in “inhumane conditions” and denied basic rights. Having exhausted legal avenues, they called for international pressure on Pakistan. Speaking publicly, they said, was their only remaining option to advocate for their father’s release from Adiala Jail, where Khan is currently lodged.

Pakistan: Witnesses increase in merchandise exports to North America by 11.24 per cent
On 14 May, Dawn reported on the increase in Pakistan’s merchandise exports to North America by 11.24 per cent to USD 4.837 billion in the first nine months of FY 2024-25. The report suggested that the reason is mainly due to increased exports to the United States by 12.08 per cent, particularly in textile and clothing. The report stated that the US accounts for 94 per cent of exports, with other countries accounting for the rest of the share, mainly Canada, the exports to Canada declined by 0.26 per cent. The report mentioned that imports from North America increased to USD 1.902 billion, which is around 27.39 per cent. The report stated that despite the tariffs imposed by the US on Pakistani textiles, which is 29 per cent, the 90-day pause has delayed the enforcement, which has not affected the export growth. The report further stated that the exports to the US in FY24 were around USD 5.442 billion, which is an 8.26 per cent decrease from FY23. The report also mentioned the export situation in other regions like Latin America and Central America, where the exports rose by 17.82 per cent and the exports declined by 3.47 per cent, respectively. The report suggested that the increase in North American exports is linked to the slowdown of exports from Bangladesh and Vietnam.

Pakistan: UK- Pakistan joint measures to counter serious crimes reports The Express Tribune
On 16 May, The Express Tribune reported on the UK and Pakistan’s agreement to strengthen their cooperation under the UK-Pakistan Serious Crime and Law Enforcement Programme (UPSCALE). The report stated that during a high-level meeting in Islamabad, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi led the discussions, which included Pakistani officials from the Ministry of Interior and FIA, as well as UK and UPSCALE officials. The meeting primarily focused on illegal migration, online child harassment, and other serious crimes. The report highlighted Minister Naqvi’s priority on illegal migration, mentioning that “coordinated efforts” must be undertaken. He acknowledged the UK’s support and stated, “Mutual cooperation is essential to combat illegal immigration. We value British assistance in this regard.” The meeting also provided updates on progress made thus far, including Pakistan establishing its first sex offender registry and the effective outputs resulting from mutual legal assistance between the two countries. The operational status of the UPSCALE delivery unit was also highlighted.

Pakistan: Pakistan continues its rhetoric against India
On 16 May, people of Pakistan paid their respects to the military for allegedly defeating India in the recent military confrontation. The day is being celebrated as “Youm-e Tashakur” or “day of gratitude.” This comes after the military of Pakistan claimed the “success of Operation Banyan Marsoos” against India. President Zardari and PM Sharif have sent out “special messages” to the people of Pakistan, claiming that the “success of Operation Banyan Marsoos.” President Zardari said “this victory is not only of our valiant military but of the entire nation that stood untied like a solid wall.” On 15 May, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar told the Senate that Islamabad is seeking a “composite dialogue” with India to address the issues of concern. The ceasefire which came into force on 10 May between India and Pakistan has now been extended until 18 May.On the same day, Islamabad appealed to the International Atomic Energy Agency to carry out an enquiry in the alleged “nuclear black market” of India. As per the Foreign Office, there have been cases of radioactive materials being stolen in India. Islamabad has also dismissed the demands put forward by the Defence Minister of India for having a “nuclear watchdog” to keep a close eye on Pakistan’s “nuclear programme.” On the same day, Foreign Minister of India S. Jaishankar confirmed that India would not adhere to Indus Water Treaty until and unless Pakistan puts an end to “cross-border terrorism” against India. FM Dar cautioned that any disruption caused by India in the flow of water to Pakistan would be seen as “act of war.”

EUROPE THIS WEEK
Albania: Socialist Party in the lead; Edi Rama to become the Prime Minister for the fourth term
On 13 May, results from the preliminary elections showed that the ruling Socialist Party, is in the lead, with Prime Minister Edi Rama looking forward to his fourth term in office. Of the total 96 per cent of votes polled and in the 140-seat parliament, Edi Rama secured 52.09 per cent, which comes to 82 seats, and the opposition Democratic Party, led by Sali Berisha, got only 34.44 per cent and 52 seats. The remaining parties will take up the last six seats. The Socialist Party drew voters in favour of them because they have pledged to secure EU membership in the coming five years. The final results are to be released 48 hours from voting, but there is a delay in the release, as the opposition requested that the ballots from the diaspora in Greece, which is approximately 53,000, not be counted, claiming that they could be manipulated. This is the first election where diaspora voters could participate by sending their votes by mail. Around 195,000 people sent in their votes by mail.

Turkey: Kurdish militant group PKK announces its disbandment
On 12 May, according to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the Kurdish militant group plans to cease operations as soon as possible and has called for the closure of the organization. This comes after 40 years of the deadly armed conflicts with the Turkey's government, over the autonomy of ethnic Kurds in the country. The purpose of their disbandment, as per the statement: “The 12th PKK Congress has decided to dissolve the PKK's organizational structure and end its method of armed struggle…the recent summit has brought the Kurdish issue to the point of resolution through democratic politics, thus completing its historical mission.” The group also responded to the call made by PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan, to lay down their arms. Ocalan has been behind bars since 1999 near an island in Istanbul. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke on the decision made by the PKK and said that they are taking calculated steps to have a terror-free Turkey. The Kurds are an ethnic group of 30 million people, and are present in Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria, after the West redrew the borders in WWI. The PKK was founded in 1978, aiming to create an independent Kurdish state, but in 1990.

The UK: Prime Minister Starmer to impose strict immigration rules to reduce net migration
On 12 May, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his intentions to set stricter immigration rules, as it has been revealed by the parliament that there have been several policies that aim to reduce the number of people coming into Britain, but there has been no change. This comes after the victory secured by the Reform Party in the mayoral elections, where they have gained 10 of 23 councils, and won 677 of 1600 seats. In Downing Street, the Prime Minister issued a statement in which he vowed to take back control of the borders. PM Starmer looks to reduce the migration numbers by the end of his term and emphasizes that the new rules are a necessity, otherwise the region will be filled with strangers. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the net migration dropped in June 2024, and according to Starmer, during the leadership of the Conservative Party, the migration numbers were high, reaching a million. During the COVID-19 phase, the net migration was estimated to be around 111,000 in June 2020.

SOUTH AMERICA THIS WEEK
South America: China offers visa free entry to five Latin American nationals
On 15 May, China has announced visa free entries to nationals of five Latin American countries in lieu of the China-CELAC forum. Citizens of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Uruguay can enter China without a visa for 30 days starting 1 June.

Mexico: Denounces US plan to impose taxes on remittance
On 15 May, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected the provision in a US tax bill that would impose a five per cent excise tax on remittances by non-citizens. The provision includes visa-holders and permanent residents as well. The President strongly condemned the US move and called the proposal “a measure that is unacceptable”, and highlighted that the provision will lead to double taxation.

Brazil: China and Brazil vouch for free trade and multilateralism amid President Silva’s visit
On 14 May, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ended his visit to China and announced that the two countries inked "20 agreements and adopted 17 other documents to strengthen cooperation in various fields over the next 50 years." The main objective of the trip was to expand the strategic partnership between China and Brazil and to encourage private investment. On 12 May, Brazil had announced two new Chinese partnerships, notably a USD one billion investment by China's Envision Energy for the production of sustainable aviation fuel. During the visit the countries had pledged to defend free trade and multilateralism.

About the Authors
Gauri Gupta and Aashish Ganeshan are post graduate students at Stella Maris College and Madras Christian College respectively; currently, both are Research Interns at National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) . Padmashree Anandhan is a Project Associate at NIAS. Rohini Reenum is a Doctoral Student at NIAS. Femy Francis and Anu Maria Joseph are Project Associates at NIAS. Fleur Elizabeth Philip is a Research Assistant at NIAS. R Preetha, Brighty Ann Sarah and Merin Treesa Alex are post graduate students at Stella Maris College at Chennai; currently they are Research Interns at NIAS.

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East Asia (Apr-Jun 2026):

Strategic Rebalancing, Neo-Militarisation and Increasing Tensions in Taiwan Straits

The World This Quarter

August 2026 | CWA # 2232

Dattesh D Parulekar�

Latin America (Apr-Jun 2026):

The 'Right' Electoral Tilt, Upswing in Venezuela-India relations, and Argentina's Energy Rise

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2231

Dhivya KM

China's economy at mid-2026:

Six Takeaways of the World Bank China Economic Update

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2230

Acsah H

China's World Artificial Intelligence Conference:

Who participated, and what happened at the WAIC 2026? What was Beijing's endgame? What does it mean for the US?

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2229

Adwaith Sankar

India, Indonesia and PM Modi's Visit:

What is the primary focus, and what is new

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2228

Namrata L Ghanghatkar

Nepal, Climate disasters and Gender:

How Nepal's disaster response has left its gender minorities behind

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2227

Dhivya KM

The IMF in Sri Lanka: Debt, Dependence, and Dissent

Four major takeaways on IMF conditionalities, public discontent, the social cost of adjustment, governance reforms and debt restructuring

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2226

Nithin V

Colombia's ban on Female Genital Mutilation:

What is the new legislation? What are the challenges? And what are the implications?

Global Politics Explainer

August 2026 | CWA # 2225

Acsah H

China's C909:

China moves from near-total reliance on foreign jets to domestic dominance. How did it happen? And what does it mean?

The World This Week

August 2026 | CWA # 2224

Global Politics Team

Zelenskyy's US visit

Newsmakers of the week

TWTW Note

August 2026 | CWA # 2223

Yesasvi Koganti

President Zelenskyy's visit to the US:

Strengthening defence cooperation

TWTW Newsmakers

August 2026 | CWA # 2222

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani and Urja R Kudalkar

Peru's new President Netanyahu's Washington visit

US Senate bill against Russia | Ukraine and Patriot missiles | China's PLA 99th anniversary

PR Commentary

July 2026 | CWA # 2221

Aarav Bhaskar

Pakistan's Compounding Water Crisis:

Environmental, Demographic, Economic and Structural stresses

PR Commentary

July 2026 | CWA # 2220

Dhivya KM

Pakistan's Federal Budget FY2026-27:

Five takeaways on Consolidation, Growth and Structural Reforms

PR Commentary

July 2026 | CWA # 2219

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26: Six Takeaways

Growth and Turnaround, but not much

Conflict Weekly

July 2026 | CWA # 2218

Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War, Week 22 I Heatwaves and Wildfires in Spain and France

Ebola expansion in Africa I Profile: Houthis

CW Newsmakers

July 2026 | CWA # 2217

Namrata L Ghanghatkar, Priyanka Makhijani, Urja R Kudalkar

The Berlin Pride attack

Zelensky's US Visit I Japan's Earthquake

CW Profile

July 2026 | CWA # 2216

Manikranth Chakravarthula

The Houthis:

Origins, Ethnic makeup, Political structure, Geographical footprint and External support

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2215

Lekshmi MK

Heatwaves and Wildfires in Spain and France:

Capacity gaps and Resource constraints amidst Recurring extreme weather

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2214

Akshath Kaimal

Ebola expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo:

Healthcare worker strikes amidst Misinformation, Climate disaster and Humanitarian crisis

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2213

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week 22:

End of pause, Return of hostilities and Expanding conflict geography

The World This Week

July 2026 | CWA # 2212

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Saudi Arabia Nuclear Cooperation Agreement I AI's Rogue Agent Breach

Return of US-Canada Tariff Tensions I 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2211

Priyanka Makhijani

AI's Rogue Agent Breach:

Recurring Patterns, Gaps in the AI safety rules and the AI rivalry

TWTW Takeaways

July 2026 | CWA # 2210

Adwaith Sankar

ASEAN Regional Forum:

Six Takeaways on Issues, Limitations and Opportunities

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2209

Namrata L Ghanghatkar

The return of US-Canada Tariff Tensions:

Retaliation and Legal setbacks

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2208

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Saudi Arabia Nuclear Cooperation Agreement:

Questions over the agreement's terms, the Abraham Accords condition, and Non-proliferation concerns

Conflict Weekly

July 2026 | CWA # 2207

Global Politics Team

US-Iran War, Week 21 I Houthi's Saudi Arabia target in the Red Sea

Return of South China Sea tensions I Resurgence of Somali piracy

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2206

Akshath Kaimal

The resurgence of Somali piracy:

Sophisticated tactics, Regional instability and an Ineffective international response

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2205

Aparna A Nair

China, the Philippines, and the return of South China Sea tensions:

Accusations, Arbitrations and Ambiguities

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2204

Brighty Ann Sarah

The Houthis target Saudi Arabia:

A new front in the US-Iran War

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2203

Brighty Ann Sarah

US-Iran War, Week 21:

Resumption of attacks and the Strait of Hormuz impasse

The World This Week

July 2026 | CWA # 2202

Special Issue

Special Issue: The World This Quarter (Apr-Jun 2026)

From China to the US

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2201

Akshath Kaimal

Ten Years and Seven Prime Ministers in the UK:

Inside the Fall of Keir Starmer and Political Instability

Conflict Weekly

July 2026 | CWA # 2200

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War I UNCLOS and the South China Sea Award

Review of the UN SDG Report 2026

CW Review

July 2026 | CWA # 2199

Preetha Renganarayanan

The SDG Annual Report 2026:

Six takeaways on a decade of SDG monitoring, global progress, and key challenges

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2198

Aparna A Nair

UNCLOS and the South China Sea Arbitral Award:

Ten Years Later

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2197

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran War, Week 20:

Renewed Strikes, Collapsed MoU and the Blockade of the Strait

The World This Quarter

July 2026 | CWA # 2196

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal (Apr-Jun 2026):

New Government, Political Stability and Economic Recovery

GP Takeaways

July 2026 | CWA # 2195

Radhika M Agarwal

PR Review

June 2026 | CWA # 2194

Vani Vyshnavi Jupudi

Pakistan's macroeconomic performance in the second quarter

Growth, Fiscal Consolidation, and the Middle East war risk

PR Commentary

June 2026 | CWA # 2193

Aparna A Nair

Pakistan PMin China:

75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, CPEC expansion and Middle East mediation

PR Review

June 2026 | CWA # 2192

Lekshmi MK

Climate Change and Pakistan's Economic Faultlines:

Six takeaways on inadequate climate finance, spillover effects, and low climate prioritisation

PR Review

June 2026 | CWA # 2191

Dhivya KM

Pakistan's Economy in the Second Quarter:

Five Takeaways from the SBP Half Year Report on GDP growth, target-range inflation, and fiscal surplus

The World This Week

July 2026 | CWA # 2190

NIAS Global Politics Team

China-DPRK friendship treaty I The IMF World Economic Outlook

TWTW Review

July 2026 | CWA # 2189

Dhivya KM

Five takeaways on Global growth, AI, and Economic resilience

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2188

Adwaith Sankar

65 years of the China-DPRK friendship treaty:

Reopening links, Russia factor, and Nuclear compromise

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2187

Avaneesh S

China's SLBM test in the Pacific:

Modernization, Increasing deterrence and Strategic messaging

TWTW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2186

Lekshmi MK

NATO Summit 2026:

Four takeaways on Alliance unity, Defence commitments, and Support for Ukraine

Conflict Weekly

July 2026 | CWA # 2185

Global Politics Team

Iran after Ali Khamenei I The War in Ukraine

CW Review

July 2026 | CWA # 2184

Deb Dutta

Four takeaways on Forced returns, Collapsing protection, Protracted crises

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2183

Preetha Renganarayanan

Europe's expanding and intensifying heatwaves:

CW Column

July 2026 | CWA # 2182

Anu Maria Joseph

Africa This Week

JNIM-FLA coordinated attacks in Mali and the RSF siege in Sudan

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2181

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine:

Deep strikes, NATO diplomacy and the Expanding air warfare

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2180

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

Iran after Ali Khamenei

Institutional resilience, Anti-American sentiment and an Unresolved conflict

GP Explainer

July 2026 | CWA # 2179

Avaneesh S

The "Power of Siberia 2" pipeline:

Russia's endgame and China's calculus

The World This Week

July 2026 | CWA # 2178

CW Note

July 2026 | CWA # 2171

Radhika M Agarwal

Anand V

China's Domestic Landscape (April-June 2026):

Reforms, Regulations, Reinvention and Risk Management

Conflict Weekly

June 2026 | CWA # 2161

NIAS Global Politics Team

Africa's Conference on Slavery

The US-Iran MoU I Ukraine's Crimea Campaign

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2160

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:

Ukraine's Crimea Campaign, The Belarus Standoff, and Russia's Aerial Bombardment

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2159

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The US-Iran MoU

Renewed strikes, Persistent disagreements, and a Fragile Agreement

CW Column: Africa This Week

June 2026 | CWA # 2158

Anu Maria Joseph

The World This Week

June 2026 | CWA # 2157

Global Politics Team

The G7 Summit 2026

TWTW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2156

Avaneesh S

President Xi Jinping's North Korea visit:

TWTW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2155

Aparna A Nair

Myanmar President's China visit:

Diplomatic legitimacy, Economic cooperation and Beijing's interests

TWTW Takeaways

June 2026 | CWA # 2154

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The G7 Summit 2026

Four Takeaways on Economic security, Critical minerals, and Consensus on Ukraine and Iran

Conflict Weekly

June 2026 | CWA # 2153

Global Politics Team

The US-Iran MoU

The War in Ukraine I Anti-immigrant violence in South Africa I Ultra Orthodox Jews' protests in Israel

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2152

Akshath Kaimal

Anti-immigrant violence in South Africa:

Xenophobic attacks, Economic distress, and an Aggressive crackdown

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2151

Rohini Reenum

Israel's Ultra-Orthodox Jews:

Why are they protesting?

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2150

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The War in Ukraine:

Massive drone attacks, Europe's support for Ukraine, and a Distant ceasefire

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2149

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran MoU:

Asymmetric Gains and Implementation Challenges

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

June 2026 | CWA # 2148

Akshath Kaimal

The Making of India's Foreign Policy:

Major pillars and their critiques

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

June 2026 | CWA # 2147

Lekshmi MK

India as a Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean Region:

A Critique of Raghavan's Maritime Security and Emerging Constraints

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2146

Global Politics Team

Press Freedom in the Indian Neighbourhood

From Afghanistan to Myanmar

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2145

Glynnis Winona B

Myanmar and Press Freedom:

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2144

Nithin V

Bangladesh and Press Freedom:

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2143

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Sri Lanka and Press Freedom:

Five Takeaways on Political influence, Legal mechanisms to control, Ethnic sensitivities and History of State intimidation

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2142

Glynnis Winona B

Bhutan and Press Freedom:

Four takeaways on Regulatory control, Economic fragility, and Social constraints

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2141

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Maldives and Press Freedom:

Four takeaways on the influence of democracy, legislation, and state funding

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2140

Nithin V

Pakistan and Press Freedom:

Four takeaways Military influence, cyber laws, political instability, and youth-driven digital journalism

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2139

Siddhi Halyur

Afghanistan and Press Freedom:

Global Politics Review: WPF Report 2026

June 2026 | CWA # 2138

Siddhi Halyur

Nepal and Press Freedom:

Three takeaways on Political constraints, Missing legal protection and Funding issues

The World This Week

June 2026 | CWA # 2137

NIAS Global Politics Team

Shangri-La Dialogue 2026: Major Statements and Takeaways

The Blue Origin Rocket Explosion

TWTW Explainer

June 2026 | CWA # 2136

Acsah H

The Blue Origin Rocket Explosion:

TWTW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2135

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

Shangri-La Dialogue 2026:

Who said what

TWTW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2134

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Shangri-La Dialogue 2026: Four Major Takeaways

Focus on Rules-based maritime order, AI & Cyber Security, and Preventive Diplomacy, but with no consensus

Conflict Weekly

June 2026 | CWA # 2133

NIAS Global Politics Team

Israel-Lebanon Tensions and a New Deal I The US-Iran War, Week Fourteen

Conflicts in Africa I The UK-Rwanda Asylum Deal

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2132

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Fourteen:

Intensifying Domestic Pressure and the Lebanon Question

CW Note

June 2026 | CWA # 2131

Rohini Reenum

Israel-Lebanon Tensions:

CW Explainer

June 2026 | CWA # 2130

Akshath Kaimal

The UK-Rwanda Asylum Deal:

CW Column

June 2026 | CWA # 2129

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa This Week:

The Ebola fear in DR Congo and the Elections in Ethiopia amidst conflicts

The World This Week

May 2026 | CWA # 2128

NIAS Global Politics Team

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2127

Madhura Meenakshi Tanikella

The Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting 2026:

Prioritizing Critical minerals, Supply chain resilience, and Maritime surveillance

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2126

Aparna A Nair

The Shenzhou-23 Mission:

China's Space Missions, Technology, and Infrastructure

Conflict Weekly

May 2026 | CWA # 2125

NIAS Global Politics Team

Israel-Lebanon Tensions I Crisis in Cuba I Ebola Outbreak in Africa

Weekly Columns on Africa and the Middle East

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2124

Glynnis Winona B

The Crisis in Cuba:

The US Sanctions, Energy Crisis, and Economic Instability

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2123

Akshath Kaimal

The Ebola and the DR Congo:

Multiple Outbreaks, Fragile Healthcare System, and Ineffective Global Responses

CW Column

May 2026 | CWA # 2122

Radhika M Agarwal

The War in Ukraine:

Ballistic missiles, Nuclear drills with Belarus, and the Czech ammunition initiative

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2121

Deb Dutta

Israel, Lebanon, Hezbollah, and the Border Tensions:

Collapse of the Ceasefire, Ineffective Beirut, and Aggressive Tel Aviv

CW Column

May 2026 | CWA # 2120

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East

The US-Iran War Week Thirteen: Escalating Hostilities, Tenuous Ceasefire and Tense Negotiations

CW Column

May 2026 | CWA # 2119

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa

The Ebola spread in DR Congo, The Faye-Sonko split in Senegal, and the Deepening US military involvement in Nigeria

The World This Week

May 2026 | CWA # 2118

Global Politics Team

The Putin-Xi Summit, PM Modi's UAE Visit, and the India-Nordic Summit

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2117

Lekshmi MK

Arctic cooperation, Climate diplomacy, and Trade diversification

CW Review

May 2026 | CWA # 2102

Glynnis Winona B

Weakening faith in institutions and Political polarization in Latin America and the Caribbean:

Six Takeaways from the UNDP Democracy and Development Report 2026

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2101

Anu Maria Joseph

The New Wave of Violence in DR Congo:

Farmer-herder clashes, Armed groups, and Security vacuum

The US-Iran War

May 2026 | CWA # 2100

Aishal Hab Yousuf

The Hormuz Strait and the Fertilizer Crisis in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa

The US-Iran War

May 2026 | CWA # 2099

Kirsten Wilfred Coelho

Why is the UK reluctant to engage?

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

May 2026 | CWA # 2098

Sreemaya Nair

India, Russia and the imperative to strengthen the traditional relationship

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

May 2026 | CWA # 2097

Kirsten Wilfred Coelho

President Trump and the US-China Trade Tensions

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

May 2026 | CWA # 2095

Santhosh Guru PR

The Eurasian-Indo Pacific Congruence and its Critique

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

May 2026 | CWA # 2094

Rakshitha B

Transactional US foreign policy and it implications for India's Strategic Autonomy

Remembering Amb PS Raghavan and his legacy

May 2026 | CWA # 2093

Glynnis Winona B

The Russia-Ukraine War and the Rise of Parallel Strategic Systems: A Critique of Raghavan's Strategic Framework

Conflict Weekly

May 2026 | CWA # 2092

NIAS Global Politics Team

The US-Iran War, Week Ten

CW Column on Middle East: Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAE's Covert Manoeuvres

CW Column

May 2026 | CWA # 2091

Brighty Ann Sarah

Conflicts in the Middle East:

Escalating Israeli Aggression in Lebanon I UAEs Covert Manoeuvres

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2090

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Ten:

Fraying Ceasefire, Renewed Negotiations and the Risk of a Stalemate

The World This Week

May 2026 | CWA # 2089

Global Politics Team

US troop withdrawal from Germany I UAEs Exit from OPEC I Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichis Visit

King Charles's US Visit

TWTW Takeaways

May 2026 | CWA # 2088

Nithin V

King Charles's US Visit:

Emphasis on strong bilateral relations, democratic values and security cooperation

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2087

Siddhi Halyur

Japan, Vietnam and PM Takaichis Visit

Exploring Strategic Sectors of Cooperation

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2086

Aishal Hab Yousuf

UAE's Exit from OPEC:

Implications for the Middle East and the Energy Market

TWTW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2085

Glynnis Winona B

US troop withdrawal from Germany:

Growing US-Europe differences and Challenges for Berlin

Conflict Weekly

May 2026 | CWA # 2084

NIAS IPRI

The US-Iran War, Week Nine I Escalating Violence in Mali

Review: Five Takeaways of RSF's 2026 Report on Media Freedom

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2083

Brighty Ann Sarah

The US-Iran War, Week Nine:

Deadlocked Negotiations, Competing Agendas and Domestic Pressure

CW Note

May 2026 | CWA # 2082

Akshath Kaimal

Escalating Violence in Mali:

Between Ethnic Insurgencies, Jihadist Attacks, and Military Coups

CW Review

May 2026 | CWA # 2081

Jenin Raj S

Media freedom hits a 25-year low:

Five Takeaways from the RSF 2026 Index

The World This Week

April 2026 | CWA # 2080

Global Politics Team

Nepals New National Commitment I Japans New Defence Posture

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis

TWTW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2079

Aishal Hab Yousuf

Japans New Defence Posture:

From Post-War Pacifism to Strategic Recalibration and Autonomy

TWTW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2078

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal's New National Commitment

Managing Consensus and Moving ahead towards a New Nepal

TWTW Review

April 2026 | CWA # 2077

Nithin V

The Middle East Crisis and its Fallouts on Hunger and Global Food Supply Network

Four Takeaways of the WFP's report on the fallouts of the Middle East crisis, April 2026

CW Column: Africa This Week

April 2026 | CWA # 2076

Anu Maria Joseph

Three years of War in Sudan, DRC-M23 talks in Switzerland and the collapse of the peace agreement in Tigray

Report Review

April 2026 | CWA # 2075

Preetha Renganarayanan

The US-Iran War Fallouts on the Asia Pacific, Energy Security and Supply Chains

Five Takeaways of the UNDP Report, April 2026

CW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2074

Brighty Ann Sarah

Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire:

Asymmetric Terms, Fragile Truce and Israeli Occupation

CW Note

April 2026 | CWA # 2073

Akshath Kaimal

The US-Iran War, Week Eight:

A Fragile Ceasefire, Attempts to Control Hormuz and the Stalled Talks in Islamabad

Special Commentary

April 2026 | CWA # 2072

Anu Maria Joseph

Three Years of War in Sudan

Prolonged Stalemate, Humanitarian Cost, External Interventions and Regional Fallouts

Conflict Weekly

April 2026 | CWA # 2071

NIAS Global Politics Team

Three Years of Civil War in Sudan I The US-Iran War, Week Eight I Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire

Review of the UNDP Report on Military Escalation in the Middle East I Conflict Weekly Column on Africa

Conflict Weekly Special Edition

April 2026 | CWA # 2070

NIAS Global Politics Team

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (JanuaryMarch 2026)

The US-Iran War I Conflicts in Africa I The War in Ukraine I China-Japan Tensions I Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (JanuaryMarch 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2069

Padmashree Anandhan

The War in Ukraine

Expanding Drone Warfare, Russia's Strategic Patience and Ukraine's Diplomatic Outreach

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (JanuaryMarch 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2068

Femy Francis�

China-Japan Tensions

Escalating Defence Posturing and Economic Decoupling

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (JanuaryMarch 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2067

Anu Maria Joseph

Conflicts in Africa

Continuing Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and DR Congo, Security issues in Nigeria, and Political Instability in Madagascar

Peace and Conflicts This Quarter (JanuaryMarch 2026)

April 2026 | CWA # 2066

Akshath Kaimal

The Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict

Recurrent Clashes, Defiant Taliban, Contesting Narratives and Emerging Chinas Role

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2065

Lakshmi Venugopal Menon

The Middle East (JanMar 2026):

The US-Iran War, Israel-Hamas Conflict and their interconnected fallouts

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2064

Anwesha Ghosh

Afghanistan (JanMar 2026):

Gender Repression, Leadership Rifts, Regional Realignments and Clashes with Pakistan

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2063

Ramya B

Russia (Jan-Mar 2026)

Assertive Military Posture, Attempts for an Economic Turnaround and Search for Partners

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2062

Himani Pant

Europe (Jan-Mar 2026)

Trade diversification & FTAs, Increased defence spending, Tightening irregular migration and Economic slowdown

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2061

S Shaji

Africa (Jan-Mar 2026)

Elections, Civil Wars, Militancy and Peace Initiatives

The World This Quarter

April 2026 | CWA # 2060

Nanda Kishor M S

India and the Neighbourhood (Jan-Mar 2026)

Continuity, Caution and Calculated assertiveness

April 2026 | CWA # 2051

TWTW Special Edition

TWTW Special Edition, 350th Issue

THE WORLD THIS QUARTER (Jan-Mar 2026)

Conflict Weekly

April 2026 | CWA # 2050

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week Five: Widening Conflict, Houthi Involvement, and Trumps Renewed Threats

PR Commentary

March 2026 | CWA # 2043

Abhimanyu Solanki

Escalatory Airpower, Hybrid Retaliation, and Regional Security

Reassessing the PakistanAfghanistan Confrontation and Its Implications for India

March 2026 | CWA # 2042

Preetha Renganarayanan

Five Takeaways of the US Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) Report for 2026

March 2026 | CWA # 2041

Aparna A Nair

China-Vietnam 3+3 Strategic Dialogue

Defence, Diplomacy and Public Security

March 2026 | CWA # 2040

Femy Francis

China's Interests and Strategies in the US-Iran War

Why Beijings support for Iran is rhetoric and muted

March 2026 | CWA # 2039

Femy Francis

Trump-Xi Meeting

Why did Trump reschedule it? What does that mean?

March 2026 | CWA # 2038

Anu Maria Joseph

Sudan-Chad tensions and the Boko Haram attack in Nigeria's Maiduguri

March 2026 | CWA # 2037

Padmashree Anandhan

Massive drone attacks, Growing energy leverage and Drifting peace efforts

March 2026 | CWA # 2036

Brighty Ann Sarah

Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Expanding Israeli Military Operations and the Reshaping of Southern Lebanon

March 2026 | CWA # 2035

Akshath Kaimal

Five Takeaways of Human Rights Watch Report 2026

March 2026 | CWA # 2024

Lekshmi MK

The UN and the Iran-US War

UNSC Resolution 2817 between Clear and Unified Message and Manifest Injustice

March 2026 | CWA # 2023

Femy Francis

Chinas Two Sessions 2026

New Five-Year Plan, Ethnic Unity Law, and an Enhanced Defence Budget

March 2026 | CWA # 2022

Padmashree Anandhan

Continuing Strikes and Inconsistent Diplomatic Efforts

March 2026 | CWA # 2021

Anu Maria Joseph

Political instability in Madagascar and spreading violence in South Sudan

March 2026 | CWA # 2020

Brighty Ann Sarah

Continuing Israel-Hezbollah Confrontation

Attacks in South Lebanon, Beiruts Conundrum, and Tel Avivs Greater Goals

March 2026 | CWA # 2019

Akshath Kaimal

Rising Violence in Nigeria

Limited State Capacity, Multiple Actors, and a Complex Security Environment

March 2026 | CWA # 2018

Rohini Reenum

The US-Iran War, Week Two

Expanding Fronts, Shifting Goalposts, and Global Fallout

The World This Week

March 2026 | CWA # 2011

Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha

Canadas PM Mark Carneys India Visit

Resetting Economic, Strategic and Cultural Ties

Global Politics Early Bird

March 2026 | CWA # 2010

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal Elections 2026

The Rise of the New and the Fall of the Old

March 2026 | CWA # 2009

Sreemaya Nair

Nepal Elections 2026

Rise of a new leadership and Reset in political landscape

The World This Week

March 2026 | CWA # 2008

Global Politics Team

Canadian PM's India Visit I Nepal Elections and its Political Reset

March 2026 | CWA # 2007

Global Politics Team

The World Today #272, 06 March 2026

The World Today

Early Bird

March 2026 | CWA # 2006

Mahesh Bhatta

Nepal Election 2026, Day One

Peaceful polling, with over 60 per cent turnout

March 2026 | CWA # 2005

Global Politics Team

The World Today #271, 05 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 2004

Akshath Kaimal

The Forgotten South Sudan Conflict

Instability returns, with a fragile peace agreement, uptick in violence and limited international engagement

March 2026 | CWA # 2003

Yesasvi Koganti

PM Modis Visit to Israel

From bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership

March 2026 | CWA # 2002

Femy Francis

German Chancellors China Visit

Reducing trade deficit and recalibrating economic cooperation with Beijing

March 2026 | CWA # 2001

Preetha Renganarayanan

Six major takeaways on the economy, border and internal security and Iran

March 2026 | CWA # 2000

Rohini Reenum

The US-Iran War, Week One

Rapid Escalation, Regional Spillover, Global Uncertainty

Conflict Weekly

March 2026 | CWA # 1999

IPRI Team

The US-Iran War, Week One | The Return of Violence to South Sudan

Weekly Column on Ukraine & Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1998

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Sudan

Response to the genocide call and the threats of a regional spillover

February 2026 | CWA # 1997

Padmashree Anandhan

Four Years of War in Ukraine

Continuing Uncertainty

February 2026 | CWA # 1996

Akshath Kaimal

Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes

Another round of cross-border attacks

March 2026 | CWA # 1995

Global Politics Team

The World Today #269, 03 March 2026

The World Today

March 2026 | CWA # 1994

Global Politics Team

The World Today #268, 02 March 2026

The World Today

PR Commentary

March 2026 | CWA # 1993

D Suba Chandran

The US-Iran Conflict and Pakistan

Balancing Rhetoric, Regional Interests and Global Alignments

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1992

IPRI Team

Pakistan-Afghanistan Clashes I Fours Years of Ukraine War

Weekly Column on Africa

March 2026 | CWA # 1991

Global Politics Team

Trumps State of the Union Address | German Chancellors China Visit | Indias PMs Israel Visit

February 2026 | CWA # 1990

Global Politics Team

The World Today #266, 27 February 2026

The World Today

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1989

IPRI Team

Abu Dhabi Talks on Ukraine I Militant Attacks in Balochistan

CW Columns on Middle East and Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1988

Padmashree Anandhan

Ukraine Peace talks in Abu Dhabi

Negotiations without a ceasefire or resolution

February 2026 | CWA # 1987

Akshath Kaimal

Continuing militant attacks in Balochistan

Expanding violence, Security-first response and Missing political dialogue in Pakistan

PR Commentary

November 2025 | CWA # 1966

Lekshmi MK

Pakistans Climate and Water Crisis

Five Questions on Challenges, Capacity and Policies

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1965

Global Politics Team

AI Impact Summit in New Delhi I Munich Security Conference 2026

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1964

IPRI Team

US-Iran & Ukraine Negotiations in Geneva I US Military Deployment in Nigeria

CW Columns on Middle East and Africa

February 2026 | CWA # 1963

Global Politics Team

The World Today #255, 16 February 2026

Today in History

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1962

Global Politics Team

Japan: Sanae Takaichis historic win | Honk Kong: Jimmy Lai Sentenced

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

Early Bird

February 2026 | CWA # 1961

Lekshmi MK

Sanae Takaichis historic win in Japan

What does it mean for domestic politics and regional stability?

Early Bird

February 2026 | CWA # 1960

Femy Francis

Jimmy Lai sentenced for 20 years in Hong Kong: Who, What, and Why

CEAP

February 2026 | CWA # 1959

Yesasvi Koganti

UK and China

PM Keir Starmers visit and the Recalibration of Economic, Strategic, and Domestic ties

February 2026 | CWA # 1958

Akshath Kaimal

India-EU Free Trade Agreement: Five Major Takeaways

The focus on expanded cooperation in defence, technology and critical minerals

February 2026 | CWA # 1957

Preetha Renganarayanan

The India-US interim trade framework

Tariff recalibration and Energy and Supply Chain realignment

February 2026 | CWA # 1956

Lekshmi MK

End of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START)

Erosion of arms control, Return of nuclear anxieties, and the New focus on China

The World This Week

February 2026 | CWA # 1955

Global Politics Team

End of the New START I IndiaUS interim Trade Framework I India-EU Free Trade Agreement I UK PM Keir Starmers China visit

Regional Roundups: From East Asia to the Americas

February 2026 | CWA # 1954

Nishchal Nath Pandey

Nepal Elections 2026: Political Parties, Gen Z Protests and Hope for a New Beginning

Conflict Weekly

February 2026 | CWA # 1953

IPRI Team

Abu Dhabi Talks on Ukraine I Militant Attacks in Balochistan

Weekly Columns: Conflicts in Africa and the Middle East

CW Column: Conflicts in the Middle East

January 2026 | CWA # 1952

Brighty Ann Sarah

US threats against Iran, and Phase Two operations in Gaza

CW Column: Conflicts in Africa

January 2026 | CWA # 1951

Anu Maria Joseph

Africa: Renewed violence in Ethiopia and a Jihadist attack in Niger

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1950

Lekshmi MK

The War in Ukraine: The Trilateral Talks, and the Deadlock over Donetsk & Security Guarantees for Kyiv

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1949

Preetha Renganarayanan

The United States: ICE Crackdowns, Rising Resistance and the Political/Legal pushback

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1948

ICE Crackdowns and Resistance in the US I Trilateral Talks on Ukraine

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1947

Brighty Ann Sarah

The Pentagons National Defence Strategy: Four major takeaways

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1946

Preetha Renganarayanan

The Davos Summit 2026

Five Major Takeaways from The World Economic Forum

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1945

Global Politics Team

The Davos Forum 2026 Takeaways I The US Pentagons National Defence Strategy

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1944

Brighty Ann Sarah

Syria: The State victory over the Syrian Democratic Forces

Conflict Weekly Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1943

Anu Maria Joseph

Another major kidnapping in Nigeria and Election announcement in Guinea-Bissau

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1942

Lekshmi MK

Greenland: Trumps escalation-deescalation approach and Europes defence

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1941

Brighty Ann Sarah

The War in Gaza: Trumps Board of Peace and the Challenges to Phase Two

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1940

IPRI Team

Trumps Board of Peace in Gaza I Escalation/De-escalation in Greenland

TWTW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1939

Lekshmi MK

Greenland: Trumps escalation-deescalation strategy and Europes defence

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1938

Continuing Tensions over Greenland

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1937

Anu Maria Joseph

Instability in Nigeria: Intensifying domestic responses, and questions over Trumps intervention

CW Note

January 2026 | CWA # 1936

Brighty Ann Sarah

Protests in Iran: Continuing Stalemate and Shifting US Position

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1935

IPRI Team

Protests in Iran | Instability in Nigeria

The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1934

Global Politics Team

The US, Greenland and Trump's Claims

Conflict Weekly

January 2026 | CWA # 1933

IPRI Team

Protests in Iran, the US Military Intervention in Venezuela and Conflicts in Africa

NIAS Conflict Weekly | The World This Week

January 2026 | CWA # 1932

Global Politics Team