Italy under complete lockdown as coronavirus cases surge over 9,000

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.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Appreciate the phone conversation with DPM & FM Antonio Tajani of Italy. Discussed the situation in West Asia."

During the meeting, participants highlighted the long-standing ties between Italy and Tibet, noting that cultural exchanges between the two date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. At that time, Italian Jesuit and Capuchin missionaries travelled to Lhasa, where they studied the Tibetan language and produced some of the earliest Tibetan-Italian dictionaries.

An Anti-Terrorism Court in Quetta has declared 12 Baloch activists, including Sabiha Baloch, as proclaimed offenders. Charged under strict anti-terror laws, activists argue these legal actions are a systemic attempt by Pakistan to intimidate and silence voices protesting human rights violations and enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

The findings have raised questions about the effectiveness of legal mechanisms meant to protect women and vulnerable communities in the province.

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.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb, during his keynote address at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 on Thursday, highlighted India's rising global influence, calling it a model for strategic autonomy and proactive international engagement, stating that Europe has "been taught a lesson by India that passivity is not a strategy".

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.