Germany extends social distancing rules until June 29

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.

The European Union on Wednesday moved to intensify pressure on Tehran amid the conflict in West Asia by approving new sanctions targeting 19 Iranian regime officials and entities accused of serious human rights violations.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday held talks with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed the Rajya Sabha on the escalating West Asia crisis following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that triggered wider regional conflict. India urged restraint, emphasised dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation, and confirmed that the Cabinet Committee on Security is monitoring the situation and addressing concerns of Indians in the region.

Balen Shah's RSP is heading for a landslide victory in Nepal's parliamentary polls, leading in 98 seats and winning 19. Shah holds a massive lead over veteran KP Sharma Oli, as the RSP nears a simple majority, with party leaders eyeing a two-third majority of 186 seats.

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.

According to the Ministry of Tourism on Wednesday, Shekhawat met with Widiyanti Puri Wardhana, Tourism Minister of Indonesia, and Christoph Ploss, Federal Government Commissioner for Tourism of Germany, during separate bilateral engagements.

Nepal's interim PM Sushila Karki voted in Kathmandu as the 2026 general election began amid tight security. Nearly 19 million voters, over half young, choose a new government after the Gen Z-led snap polls.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday reiterated his opposition to the US-Israel led attack on Iran.