Myanmar confirms four cases of Omicron variant of COVID-19

He highlighted India's role as a "first responder" for the Maldives, emphasising that India's support during critical periods has been fundamental to the stability and security of the island nation.

EAM S Jaishankar stated that the era of "big deals" between dominant powers is over, as multipolarity is now an irreversible reality. He argued that the Global South is defined by shared historical experiences, while noting a growing "differentiation" within the previously unified Global West.

The University of Chicago has honoured Professor Krishnamurthy V. Subramanian with the Alumni Award for Professional Achievement. He is the first Indian economist to receive the 85-year-old distinction, recognised for his "landmark" policy work and leadership in India during the COVID-19 crisis and global economic uncertainty.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said India will provide technical equipment for earthquake relief activities to Myanmar next month as he underlined the shared cooperation between the two countries, emphasising that New Delhi has "always stood" with Naypyidaw in times of need.

Opening his remarks, he said, "The subject is quite enriching. There is an old Sanskrit is saying 'Prakriti Rakshit Rakshita' which means nature protects when protected." He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced this principle, adding, "An example of the same was given by Dr Viva during the covid time and I must say that while framing this session is what exactly right when we talk about how the wetlands the forest catchments close the run up of the floods the mangroves protect it is necessary to understand how such solution can be scaled in a sustainabale mod so that they thrive using the overall public budget."