India Today reported that China has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Tianjin for the SCO Summit, calling it a gathering of solidarity and friendship. The summit, scheduled from August 31 to September 1, will see participation from leaders of over 20 countries, including all member states. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the statement, amid tensions following US President Donald Trump's criticism of Brics nations for buying Russian oil.
India has put on hold plans to procure new US weapons and aircraft due to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which have raised duties on Indian exports to 50% - the highest of any US trading partner. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's trip to Washington for an announcement on defence purchases has been cancelled. The decision comes after Trump imposed additional 25% tariff on Indian goods as punishment for Delhi's purchases of Russian oil, fueling Russia's invasion of Ukraine. India had planned to send Singh to announce the purchase of six Boeing P8I reconnaissance aircraft and support systems for the Indian Navy in a $3.6 billion deal. The pause in defence purchases is seen as a sign of discontent between the two countries, with India claiming unfair targeting by Washington.
India Eyes Japan and South Korea for Trade Diversification
8.8.25
India may counter US tariffs by diversifying its exports to countries like Japan and South Korea. The country is also exploring alternative trade routes with Southeast Asian nations. India has already imposed retaliatory duties on US goods in response to the tariffs. China has lodged a "serious protest" with the Philippines over comments made by President Marcos about Taiwan, while the US has ruled out further trade talks amid souring ties with India. Israel's Security Cabinet has approved a takeover of Gaza City, with Netanyahu's office stating that it aims to strengthen security in the region.
India may counter US President Donald Trump's tariffs by forming a three-way trade agreement with US buyers and the Philippines. Indian exporters have reached an agreement with US companies to export goods without facing tariffs, while also receiving support from the Philippines in response to President Ferdinand Marcos' comments on Taiwan during an interview.
India has put its plans to procure new US weapons and aircraft on hold due to the imposition of tariffs by President Donald Trump. The decision comes after India was given three weeks to find alternative suppliers for Russian oil or face painful tariffs. Indian Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal has sought assurances from the government on how it will stand up to the US's prohibitive tariffs, which could cause Kerala's economy to regress into the COVID-19 era. Moody's Ratings warned that Trump's steep 50% tariffs on Indian imports could severely undermine India's manufacturing ambitions and slow economic growth. The US President has ruled out trade negotiations with India until the issue of tariffs is resolved, citing national security concerns.
Indonesia Pushes Regional Cooperation at Jakarta Symposium
8.8.25
Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno emphasized the importance of strengthening regional cooperation during a symposium in Jakarta. He highlighted the need for increased collaboration among countries in Southeast Asia to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. Oegroseno stressed that Indonesia is committed to fostering research networks and knowledge sharing with other nations in the region, as exemplified by the BRIN's efforts to promote innovation and economic growth.
Indonesia Rejects Ambalat Block Joint Management Proposal
8.8.25
Amelia Anggraini, a member of Indonesia's Commission I, emphasized that any joint management of the Ambalat Block with Malaysia must not compromise Indonesia's sovereignty. She stressed that international cooperation should uphold Indonesia's legal status and principles of mutual benefit. The Indonesian government will handle details of cooperation, while maintaining oversight through Commission I. Amelia expressed concern over Malaysia's use of the term "Sulawesi Sea" to refer to the Ambalat region, warning it could carry political implications. Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato' Seri Mohamad Hasan cited a 2002 International Court of Justice ruling to bolster his country's maritime position in the area. President Prabowo Subianto expressed hope for a peaceful resolution through mutual goodwill between Indonesia and Malaysia.
Israel's Gaza Expansion Plan Sparks International Backlash
8.8.25
Israel's plans to expand its military operation in Gaza could widen the rift with international powers, who have criticized the war amid mounting concerns over media reports of starvation. Britain urged Israel to reconsider, while Germany said it would not authorize the export of military equipment that could be used in Gaza until further notice. The Israeli government aims to take control of the entire territory, a move that could lead to increased tensions and potentially destabilize the region. A new plan may be aimed at pressuring Hamas to accept a ceasefire on Israel's terms, but it also reflects reservations from Israel's military chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who warned that expanding operations would endanger remaining hostages. The US administration has been briefed on the broad lines of the framework for a potential ceasefire, which includes freezing arms and establishing a Palestinian-Arab committee to oversee reconstruction efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India met with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various sectors including trade, technology, energy, defence, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties.