embassy group

India is set to host a crucial Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) meeting, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expected to attend. This high-level gathering, involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia, is seen as a strategic move to counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. The meeting will likely address critical mineral supply chains and regional security concerns.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend the BRICS summit in New Delhi on September 12-13. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed his participation in the national capital. This visit marks a significant diplomatic event for India amidst global geopolitical shifts and growing BRICS collaboration. Details on his schedule are anticipated.

During President Trump's visit to China, American officials and CEOs implemented a 'digital lockdown,' using 'clean' devices and leaving personal electronics behind. This precaution stems from a long-standing US government assumption that all devices and networks in China are potentially compromised and subject to surveillance.

Over four million Indians in the UAE will experience a significant overhaul in passport and visa services starting July 1, 2026. Kerala-based Alhind Group has secured a major contract, launching 16 new service centers across the Emirates. This move aims to make services more affordable and accessible, replacing BLS International after a decade.

A heartbreaking incident unfolded in the Maldives as five Italian divers tragically lost their lives during an underwater cave exploration. In a swift response, local authorities mobilised an extensive rescue operation and successfully retrieved one body from the depths.

US intelligence suggests Cuba has acquired over 300 military drones, raising security concerns about potential attacks on American targets like Guantanamo Bay and Key West. CIA chief visited Havana, warning against hostilities and urging an end to its "totalitarian government." Cuba denies threatening war, asserting its right to self-defense amid growing defense ties with Russia and Iran.

The Ministry of Education organised the Bharat Innovates 2026 pre-event roadshow in Paris, aimed at connecting Indian start-ups with global investors, universities and research institutions ahead of the main event scheduled in Nice, France from June 14 to 16. The initiative focuses on deep-tech innovation and international collaboration across key technology sectors.

As the geopolitical landscape evolves, France's efforts to maintain influence in Africa are confronted with a shifting reality. The Sahel nations, now under military governance, are moving toward new alliances, with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger seeking support from Russia for defense needs and China for economic growth.

Saudi Arabia conducted unpublicized airstrikes on Iran in late March, marking the first direct military action on Iranian soil in retaliation for attacks within the kingdom. This shift in approach followed Iranian strikes on Gulf Cooperation Council states, leading to an informal de-escalation understanding between Riyadh and Tehran.

The United States is closing its consulate general in Peshawar due to safety concerns for diplomatic staff and resource allocation. While the physical presence is reduced, the US will maintain engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through its embassy in Islamabad. This decision follows a wave of unrest in Pakistan.

Malaysia's maritime agency refutes claims of ignoring sanctioned Iranian oil transfers near its waters. Iranian-linked tankers reportedly exploit "jurisdictional gaps" for ship-to-ship transfers, a practice advocacy groups say Malaysia facilitates. Authorities state operations often occur beyond radar coverage, complicating enforcement. Indonesia is also reviewing border oil transfers.

The United States is looking for "concrete actions" by Iraq's next prime minister to distance the state from pro-Iran armed groups before resuming financial shipments and security aid, a senior official said Tuesday. But a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Zaidi must address the "blurry line" between pro-Iran armed groups in the Shia-majority country and the state.

As one of Himalaya’s oldest pilgrimage traditions opens for another season, Nepal is asking why India and China are using a route it claims as its own

India’s chess boom is inspiring young talents, but families face huge financial and logistical struggles behind the scenes. Parents spend lakhs on foreign tournaments, visas, travel, and coaching, often without sponsorship or federation support. Many also deal with poor tournament systems in India and scams abroad. Despite rising success stories like Vaishali and Gukesh, chess parents say survival in the sport remains extremely difficult.

Fresh violence erupted across Mali early Saturday, with "unidentified armed terrorist groups" targeting multiple locations including the capital Bamako, its international airport, and the key military town of Kati. Attacks also spread to northern cities, with the Azawad Liberation Front reportedly entering Kidal. The defense minister's house in Kati was reportedly hit.