Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joseph Biden had a phone conversation on Monday to discuss regional and global issues. They both expressed their concerns about the ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the political turmoil in Bangladesh. Modi also highlighted the need to protect the safety and security of minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh. Both leaders also emphasized their commitment to promoting democratic values and strengthening cooperation in multilateral fora, including the Quad.
US President Biden and Prime Minister Modi Discuss Regional and Global Issues
US President Joseph Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a phone conversation on Monday, March 7, 2023, to discuss a range of regional and global issues.
Ukraine Crisis
Both leaders expressed their concerns about the ongoing tensions in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. They discussed the humanitarian crisis and called for an immediate end to the violence.
Bangladesh Political Unrest
Modi highlighted the political turmoil in Bangladesh and expressed concerns about the safety and security of minorities, particularly Hindus. He urged the Bangladeshi government to take steps to restore peace and protect all citizens.
Democratic Values and Multilateral Cooperation
The leaders emphasized their shared commitment to promoting democratic values and strengthening cooperation in multilateral fora. They reaffirmed their commitment to the Quad, a strategic alliance between the US, India, Australia, and Japan.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the significance of the phone call between Biden and Modi?
The phone call signifies the close relationship between the US and India and their shared concerns about regional and global stability.
2. What were the specific concerns raised about Ukraine?
Both leaders expressed concern about the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. They called for Russia to halt its aggression and for a peaceful resolution based on international law.
3. What is the situation in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh has been experiencing political unrest and protests, particularly in the wake of the recent elections. There have been reports of violence and concerns about the safety of minorities.
4. What is the Quad?
The Quad is a strategic alliance between the US, India, Australia, and Japan. It aims to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region and address common challenges such as maritime security and economic cooperation.
5. What is the current state of US-India relations?
US-India relations are generally strong and cooperative. The two countries share common interests in promoting economic growth, combating terrorism, and maintaining regional stability.
Hindus in Bangladesh took to the streets demanding the release of monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu after he was detained by officials and taken to an undisclosed location. Protests turned violent when unknown miscreants attacked protesters in Dhaka and Chittagong, leading to injuries of over 20 people. Sources suggest that the arrest was a ploy by the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, to target the minority Hindu community.
A leading credit rating agency has revised its projections for China’s economic growth, citing the looming threat of increased tariffs under the upcoming US presidency. According to S&P Global Ratings, the uncertainty caused by Trump's stance on tariffs has "blurred" the economic landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, leading to a downward revision of growth forecasts for the next two years. The agency highlighted potential negative impacts on investment, employment, income, and confidence, which could also affect consumer spending. Additionally, while China has implemented stimulus measures, S&P pointed out that there has been limited support for households and consumption.
Flyadeal, a budget airline based in Saudi Arabia, has launched flights to Sohag, a lesser-known but culturally and historically significant destination in Upper Egypt. The airline has added this route just hours before it launches its first international scheduled flight from Madinah to Cairo. With this expansion, flyadeal now operates 44 weekly flights between Saudi Arabia and Egypt, further strengthening the commercial and strategic ties between the two countries. The Sohag region, known for its ancient temples and river cruises, offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into Egyptian civilization. Flyadeal continues to grow its network and plans to further expand internationally in the coming years. Tickets for these newly launched routes can be booked through the airline's mobile app, website, and travel agencies.
The Indian Government's vision of "Sahkar Se Samriddhi" will align with the theme of "Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All" at the ICA Global Cooperative Conference 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference and launch the UN International Year of Cooperatives 2025, showcasing the power of cooperative enterprises in promoting social inclusion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development worldwide. The event will feature discussions and workshops focusing on the role of cooperatives in achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and a commemorative postal stamp will be launched symbolizing India's commitment to the cooperative movement, with delegates from over 100 countries in attendance.
In a historic first, India will host the International Cooperative Alliance's global conference and General Assembly, where Prime Minister Modi will launch the 'United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025'. The event will be held in New Delhi from November 25-30 and will see over 3,000 delegates, including esteemed guests from Bhutan and Fiji. Despite challenges, the event will showcase India's commitment to the global cooperative movement and highlight the importance of cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.
In a surprising turn of events, Kenyan President William Ruto has cancelled two major deals with India's Adani Group after its founder was indicted in the US for corruption. The deals, worth nearly $2 billion, included a 30-year lease for control of the country's main airport and a partnership to construct power transmission lines. Ruto cited "new information" from investigative agencies and partner nations as the reason for the cancellation, drawing thunderous applause from lawmakers in his state of the nation address. The move has sparked concerns about transparency and value for money in these deals, which have faced criticism from politicians and the public.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group Security Strategic Working Group, comprising representatives from all MSG member states, has successfully completed their sixth workshop meeting in Honiara last week. They have discussed the outcomes of their consultations with NGOs and CSOs in each member country, and agreed on the next steps to finalize the MSG Peace and Security Strategy. This is seen as a significant step for the sub-region in facing common threats, and the finalized report will be tabled at the upcoming Police Commissioner's and Police Minister's Meeting in Indonesia next year.
A video claiming to show Indian and Chinese armed forces chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ amid the recent disengagement at the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh has been circulating on social media. However, the truth is that the video is not recent and has been on the internet since January 2024. It was originally shared as footage of Indian Army personnel chanting the slogan after the consecration of the idol of Hindu deity Ram at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir. A keyword search led to several news reports from January 2024, clarifying that the video is not recent and its authenticity has not been verified.
A group of foreign tourists in Vang Vieng, Laos fell ill after a night out on November 12th, possibly from drinking tainted alcohol. As of now, five deaths have been confirmed, including a British lawyer identified as Simone White and a young Australian woman. The Australian Prime Minister has expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of Bianca Jones and hopes for the recovery of her friend, Holly Bowles. Western government officials are supporting the families of the victims and urging caution for travelers in the popular backpacking destination.
Laishram Herojit, a low-level government worker, has appealed for the safe return of his family who went missing after an encounter between suspected Kuki insurgents and security forces in Manipur. Two women, including Herojit's wife, and an eight-year-old child are among the six people who went missing. Herojit has called for the release of his innocent family and has appealed to any group that may be holding them hostage to return them unharmed. He recalls getting a call from his wife during the violence, which later got disconnected, and a Bengali friend later informed him that they were taken away in a boat.