A top Meta executive on Wednesday apologised to IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on behalf of his company for “restricting” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s post.

“I apologised to the minister on behalf of Meta for the error restricting PM Modi’s post,” Joel Kaplan, chief Global Affairs Officer at Meta, said in a statement.

Joel Kaplan, along with top Meta executives, also met IT secretary S Krishnan and other senior officials of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) in a discussion that lasted 45 minutes.

India is Meta’s largest market by users, with hundreds of millions of people using Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

PM Modi posted the vertical video, speaking directly to the camera, on July 23 — during the height of protests led by the online Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The video was was briefly removed from Meta-owned Facebook and Instagram, but was later restored.

The US-headquartered social media giant attributed the incident to a technical glitch and apologised. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) found the explanation “inadequate”. The company said the content was removed “in error” and was restored on the platform.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who heads the parliamentary committee on communications and information technology, said the panel blamed Meta.

“Deleting the prime minister’s video was not the work of an intermediary, but that of a publisher,” Dubey said, adding, “Zuckerberg will have to apologise within three days.”

India’s parliamentary standing committees scrutinise government policies and can summon officials and company executives to answer questions.

However, they cannot themselves impose penalties, revoke legal protections or direct prosecutions.

Any action against an online platform would have to be taken by the government or the courts under existing law. (NDTV)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (July 6, 2026) greeted Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on his birthday, and said his message of peace has been a guiding force for people across the world. 

The Dalai Lama was born on July 6, 1935 to a Tibetan farming family in the small village of Taktser, located at Amdo in Tibet. 

“Warm birthday greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His message of peace and harmony has been a guiding force for people across the world. His moral and spiritual strength and his commitment to global good are commendable. 

Wishing him a long and healthy life,” Mr. Modi said in a post on X.

Since 1959, the Dalai Lama has been living in exile in India. (PTI)

Warm birthday greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His message of peace and harmony has been a guiding force for people across the world. His moral and spiritual strength and his commitment to global good are commendable. Wishing him a long and healthy life.@DalaiLama

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

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A packet of Parle Melody has unexpectedly turned into one of the internet’s biggest talking points after a viral exchange between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sent consumers rushing to quick-commerce apps across India.

On Wednesday, May 20, Meloni shared a video on social media showing Modi gifting her a packet of the iconic Melody toffee during his visit to Rome. “Thank you for the gift,” she wrote alongside the clip.

In the video, Meloni is heard saying: “Prime Minister Modi brought us a gift, a very very good toffee.” Shortly after the video went viral, multiple Indian media outlets reported that consumers rushed to platforms including Blinkit, Zepto and Instamart to order the same candy, with Melody appearing as “out of stock” in several locations across the country. (KhaleejTimes)

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Sunday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi placing four requests before the Union government for the welfare of Sri Lankan Tamils living in the State.

Mr. Stalin requested the Union government for rescinding earlier administrative instructions that barred the consideration of citizenship applications from Sri Lankan Tamils.

Mr. Stalin, in his letter, sought to flag the matter, which he termed was of “profound humanitarian, constitutional, and national importance concerning Sri Lankan Tamils”, who have sought refuge in India, predominantly in Tamil Nadu, for over four decades.

He requested for issuing an executive clarification waiving passport and visa requirements, where appropriate, for the purpose of citizenship or long-term visa applications, based on verified identity documentation issued by the Tamil Nadu government.

The CM requested for delegating appropriate powers to designated district-level authorities for streamlined processing and also requested the Union government for formally clarifying the legal status of registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals sheltered in India up to January 9, 2015.

“These individuals have lived in India with dignity, discipline, and deep cultural affinity for more than four decades. Their presence has been supported and regulated in coordination with the Union government. The continued characterisation of their status as irregular does not reflect the humanitarian context of their entry nor the State-sanctioned nature of their stay.”

Since 1983, successive governments of Tamil Nadu, with the support and concurrence of the Union government, have extended shelter, subsistence support, education, and healthcare to Sri Lankan Tamils, who fled ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, he said.

As of February 15, approximately 89,000 individuals continued to reside in Tamil Nadu — a significant proportion of whom have lived in India for more than 30 years, and nearly 40% of whom were born on Indian soil, Mr. Stalin pointed out.

“While the State has fulfilled its humanitarian responsibilities with commitment and compassion, these individuals remain in a state of prolonged legal uncertainty. Despite their decades-long residence and integration into the social fabric, many continue to lack access to durable legal solutions such as citizenship or long-term visa status,” Mr. Stalin said.

The Tamil Nadu government had constituted an advisory committee that undertook detailed study of the status of these Sri Lankan Tamils and had presented recommendations.

One of the recommendations was that the demographic assessment undertaken by the committee indicated that “several categories of Sri Lankan Tamils are eligible for regularisation under existing legal frameworks — including those born in India prior to June 30, 1987, individuals born to one Indian parent, spouses of Indian citizens, persons of Indian origin with lineage documentation, and those otherwise eligible for long-term visas.”

Mr. Stalin underlined: “I wish to state that the 2003 amendment to the Citizenship Act, which introduced the category of “illegal migrant,” has had the unintended consequence of retrospectively affecting those who entered India under extraordinary humanitarian circumstances and with the tacit approval of the Union government.”

The administrative instructions issued in 1986 have constrained the acceptance of citizenship applications from this community, thereby creating barriers to resolution, Mr. Stalin contended.

“However, recent policy developments — particularly the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025 — signal a constructive and humanitarian approach. A formal clarification that registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals sheltered up to January 9, 2015 shall not be treated as “illegal migrants” would provide much-needed legal certainty.”

Judicial pronouncements, including the judgment of the Madras High Court in P. Ulaganathan Vs. Government of India (2019), have also emphasised the need for a pragmatic and humanitarian interpretation of the law in such cases, Mr. Stalin pointed out. (The Hindu)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his gratitude to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for inaugurating the Exposition of the Holy Devnimori Relics at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo.

In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi responded to a message shared by President Dissanayake on February 4, 2026. Modi recalled that the decision to bring the relics to Sri Lanka was made during his visit in April 2025, offering the Sri Lankan public the opportunity to pay their respects.

“Our nations are connected by deep civilisational and spiritual bonds,” Modi said, adding, “May Lord Buddha’s timeless message of compassion, peace and harmony continue to guide humanity.” (Newswire)

Gratitude to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for inaugurating the Exposition of the Holy Devnimori Relics at the sacred Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo.

During my visit in April 2025, it was decided these relics will come to Sri Lanka, thus giving the opportunity for the… https://t.co/rLGTRudlsZ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 5, 2026

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman reflects India’s integrated strategic approach to the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. Rather than treating these regions in isolation, New Delhi is responding to their geopolitical interconnection, especially in the wake of disruptions to global trade routes.

The visit to Jordan, marking seventy-five years of diplomatic relations, is significant because it comes after a long gap and amid instability following the Gaza war. Conflict in Yemen and Sudan has destabilized the broader region, including the Red Sea littoral states.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has described the Middle East as a “crucial passage” linking Africa, Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Indo-Pacific, underscoring India’s view of the region as a connector rather than a standalone theater. Modi’s decision to visit Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman together reflects this. Each country occupies a critical location: Jordan sits at the crossroads of the Middle East, between Israel and the Persian Gulf; Ethiopia dominates the Horn of Africa and is Africa’s second-most populous country; and Oman abuts the Strait of Hormuz and the western Indian Ocean.

Jordan holds importance for India as a moderate and stabilizing actor in a volatile region. Its rejection of extremism and its balanced diplomacy allow India to engage the Middle East without becoming entangled in intra-regional rivalries. Modi’s warm reception in Amman and his talks with King Abdullah II underscore the partnership. Modi said his visit had been “immensely productive” and had “strengthened the India-Jordan partnership across key areas such as renewable energy, water management, digital transformation, cultural exchanges, and heritage cooperation.” Both sides, he said, “strongly reaffirmed their shared stand against terrorism.”

The two sides signed multiple memorandums of understanding addressing renewable energy, water resources, and digital transformation. At the economic level, Modi called for doubling India-Jordan bilateral trade to $5 billion over the next five years, signaling New Delhi’s intent to move beyond symbolism toward tangible economic outcomes. Jordan’s intent to join India-led initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, the Global Biofuel Alliance, and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure highlights India’s growing institutional influence. For New Delhi, engaging Jordan sends the message that Middle Eastern stability is central to India’s energy security, diaspora protection, and regional strategy.

Ethiopia represents India’s gateway to Africa. Over $200 billion of Indian trade passes through the Red Sea annually, making regional instability—piracy, trafficking, and recent attacks on shipping—a direct concern for India. During his address to the parliament, Modi underscored the strategic rationale behind his visit, stating that “Ethiopia sits at a crossroads of Africa. India stands at the heart of the Indian Ocean. We are natural partners in regional peace, security and connectivity.” As host to the African Union, Addis Ababa is also a diplomatic hub for India’s Africa policy. Modi emphasized solidarity among developing nations, observing that “when spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.”

During the visit, India and Ethiopia elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Modi’s outreach reinforces India’s aspiration to consolidate its leadership of the Global South through development partnerships that prioritize transparency and capacity-building, rather than China-style debt dependency to which Ethiopia previously fell victim.

Oman, meanwhile, remains one of India’s most trusted partners in the Persian Gulf. It is vital for India’s energy and maritime security. Indo-Oman defense and naval cooperation is extensive, with Indian naval access to ports including Duqm, enhancing India’s reach in the western Indian Ocean.

Oman also plays a key role in India’s Link West policy, MAHASAGAR vision, and extended neighborhood strategy. During the visit, Modi emphasized the need to strengthen India’s strategic partnership with Oman, including cooperation on trade, investment, and regional stability. Both sides signed a free-trade agreement, and diaspora connections, maritime links, and economic ties continue to reinforce the partnership.

The visit also carries a geo-economic dimension. As India’s global interests expand—and as trade uncertainties grow amid renewed tariff pressures from the United States—New Delhi is diversifying its economic and strategic partnerships. The Middle East and Africa are central to this effort. U.S. policymakers should expect greater Indian involvement in the Middle East and the Fifth Fleet area of operations. (Middle East Forum)

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US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India would stop purchasing oil from Russia, calling it a “big step” toward isolating Moscow economically. India has become one of the largest customers for Russian seaborne crude since Western governments imposed sanctions after Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. 

“I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same thing,” Trump told reporters at a White House event.

“All we want from President Putin is to stop this — stop killing Ukrainians and stop killing Russians because he’s killing a lot of Russians,” Trump said. “The hatred of the two leaders (Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin) is a lot, it’s an obstacle… But I think we’ll get them. If India doesn’t buy oil, it makes it much easier… They will not be buying oil from Russia and they’ll go back to Russia after the war is over.”

While India is yet to release a statement, Trump’s remarks, if confirmed, could indicate a major adjustment in India’s energy strategy.

Trump, who has pressed to limit Russia’s oil revenue, had imposed tariffs on Indian exports to the United States after trade talks had initially stalled. A 25% duty was introduced earlier this year, followed by another 25% increase that the administration linked to India’s continued crude purchases from Russia.

India has long defended its right to purchase energy wherever it finds favorable terms, saying its decisions are driven by domestic demand rather than politics. Since the war began, New Delhi has balanced its historic ties with Moscow against growing strategic cooperation with Washington.

“I think they were great… Modi is a great man,” Trump said. “He (Sergio Gor) told me that he (PM Modi) loves Trump… I have watched India for years. It’s an incredible country and every single year you would have a new leader… My friend has been there now for a long time and he’s assured me there will be no oil purchases from Russia,” Trump made his comments while discussing U.S. ambassador-designate Sergio Gor’s recent meeting with Modi. 

Trump said Modi could not halt the oil imports “immediately” but added that “the process is going to be over soon.” (NDTV Profit)

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In 2019, U.S. President Donald Trump stood alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the “Howdy Modi” rally in Houston. The atmosphere was electric. Indian Americans cheered, and New Delhi appeared fully invested in the Trump presidency. Trump’s popularity in India eclipsed that of his successor Joe Biden and even Biden’s vice president, Kamala Harris, who is herself of Indian ancestry. Trump’s re-election in 2024 thus seemed like the beginning of a new, stronger chapter in India-U.S. relations.

That chapter is now closing fast. India is beginning to question the value of its strategic alignment with Washington. And the United States is handing it every reason to do so.

On July 25, when U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Washington to discuss trade and critical minerals, New Delhi took notice. This was not the first time a high-level engagement with Pakistan had stirred unease in India. But the timing, messaging, and broader context made this moment impossible to ignore. Why, many in New Delhi asked, would Washington deepen ties with a country that actively undermines India’s security, especially after decades of painstaking work to build India-U.S. relations?

Worse still, Trump’s renewed talk of mediating between India and Pakistan, including on the Kashmir dispute, has reopened old wounds. India has long maintained that Kashmir and other sensitive issues must be handled bilaterally. Any interference, no matter how well-intentioned, is seen as a breach of sovereignty.

Trump’s talk of mediation thus sends a clear message to India that its core concerns are negotiable. If Washington is serious about deepening ties with India, such comments are at best a diplomatic misstep and at worst strategic self-sabotage on a grand scale.

Pakistan’s sponsorship of cross-border terrorism is a direct national security threat for India Any United States administration that ignores this point is guilty of diplomatic negligence. India does not ask for unconditional alignment, only consistency and respect for its core interests from the United States.

This indifference is especially jarring now that India is recalibrating its foreign policy. No longer shielded by nonalignment, India has leaned into pragmatic engagement with the West. New Delhi has joined frameworks like the Quad, committed to expanding military exercises like Malabar, and demonstrated readiness to share responsibility in the Indo-Pacific. India is doing its part, but partnerships cannot be one-sided.

Trump’s mixed signals and public overtures to Pakistan are actively undermining India-U.S. ties, to unclear ends. Pakistan is economically fragile, politically volatile, and increasingly tethered to China. India, by contrast, brings capacity, credibility, and the geopolitical leverage needed to shape Asia’s balance of power. 

By engaging Pakistan – a state firmly within Beijing’s orbit – and wavering on India’s core concerns, the United States is weakening trust and undermining the very alliances and partnerships it claims to prioritize. The United States must decide if it wants a steady, forward-looking partner in India or a string of transactional dealings with Pakistan that only breed mistrust.

India is managing a delicate and high-stakes relationship with China, and despite this challenge, it remains committed to regional stability, alongside Australia and Japan. Yet none of these countries can uphold the Indo-Pacific vision alone while Washington continues to send conflicting signals. U.S. inconsistency hands Beijing a strategic advantage. It allows China to appear more predictable and, at times, more reasonable in contrast.

The original rationale for closer India-U.S. ties was straightforward: India is the only democratic power in Asia with the capacity to balance China’s growing assertiveness. That rationale still holds true, and the need is more pressing than ever. Beijing is stepping up pressure on Taiwan. The South China Sea remains volatile. The regional balance is shifting. Washington cannot afford to sideline its trusted partner in Asia, lest it weaken the Indo-Pacific framework from the inside out.

As India and Pakistan traded strikes in early May U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said of the conflict, “It’s none of our business.” If the Trump administration still holds this view – that what happens in South Asia is of no concern – then the United States should step aside. 

If the Trump administration does envision a role for itself in the region, then now is the moment to demonstrate that the United States sees India as more than a convenient partner. The Trump administration must clarify its long-term priorities. India is an indispensable and equal partner, and must be treated as such. Doing otherwise risks damaging a partnership that may never fully recover. Rebuilding trust will take decades; influencing India’s increasingly confident strategic autonomy will be even harder.

Ignoring India’s concerns not only jeopardizes the bilateral partnership but also strengthens voices within India that argue the West cannot be trusted. As it stands now, the Trump administration is giving those voices every reason to say, “We told you so!” (The Diplomat)

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India’s global stature is once again set to shine as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil on July 6-7.

With the world’s major emerging economies gathering under one roof, India’s role within BRICS — the influential bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — is poised to become even more significant, further cementing the nation’s leadership in global economic and geopolitical affairs.

Over the years, India has leveraged BRICS as a platform to advance not just its national interests, but also the broader concerns of the Global South.

From advocating for inclusive economic growth to championing reforms in global governance, India’s contribution to the BRICS agenda has been both consistent and constructive.

As PM Modi embarks on his Brazil visit, expectations are high that India will further elevate its standing within the group and present bold ideas that resonate globally.

A legacy of constructive engagement

Since the inception of BRICS, India has played an instrumental role in shaping its vision and priorities.

With its robust economy, thriving technology sector, and steadfast commitment to democratic values, India has brought balance and dynamism to the grouping.
Prime Minister Modi, who has participated in every BRICS summit since taking office in 2014, has been a strong advocate for deeper cooperation across areas like trade, technology, energy security, and sustainable development.

At past summits, India has championed initiatives to reform global financial institutions, enhance multilateral collaboration, and drive innovation.

The establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB) in 2014 and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) reflected BRICS’ collective push for financial stability and infrastructure development, both of which India actively supported.

India’s expanding influence

As the 17th BRICS Summit approaches, India’s influence within the bloc is more prominent than ever.

With the Indian economy now ranking as the world’s third-largest in purchasing power parity terms, and with sustained growth even amid global uncertainties, India has emerged as a driver of economic resilience and innovation.

PM Modi’s leadership has positioned India as a global technology hub, a leader in clean energy transitions, and a key voice on climate action.

These strengths are increasingly reflected within BRICS discussions, where India has advocated for equitable climate finance, technology sharing, and joint research partnerships.

Moreover, India’s Digital Public Infrastructure model — encompassing initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and Digital India — has drawn global attention.

Within BRICS, India has promoted digital cooperation, offering to share its expertise to bridge the digital divide and empower millions across member nations.

Brazil summit: A platform for deeper cooperation

The forthcoming BRICS Summit in Brazil presents an ideal opportunity for India to advance its vision for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and equitable global governance.

The 2025 summit holds special significance as it comes at a time when the world is navigating multiple transitions — from technological disruptions to shifts in energy markets and global supply chains.

India is expected to emphasise enhanced collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, digital transformation, health security, and food security.

With its ambitious renewable energy targets, including achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, India has much to offer in joint initiatives on clean energy and climate resilience.

Health cooperation will also be a key focus, building on India’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic in supplying vaccines and essential medicines worldwide.

Strengthening health infrastructure, fostering pharmaceutical partnerships, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare are priorities India will likely champion at the summit.

Bridging Global South aspirations

India’s participation in BRICS has always reflected its broader commitment to representing the interests of developing nations. Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has consistently advocated for giving a stronger voice to the Global South within international decision-making platforms.

In this spirit, India has supported BRICS expansion dialogues, encouraging greater participation from emerging economies across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
The recent inclusion of new members like Egypt, Ethiopia, and Iran into BRICS signals the bloc’s growing relevance as a voice for developing countries.

India’s constructive engagement ensures that BRICS remains focused on development, peace, and inclusive growth, rather than geopolitical rivalries.

As PM Modi is set to join the leaders in Brazil, India is poised to push for practical solutions to global challenges — from technology access and climate change to trade barriers and development financing.

Strengthening economic and trade partnerships

Trade cooperation remains central to the BRICS’ agenda, and India has been a vocal supporter of boosting intra-BRICS commerce, investment flows, and supply chain integration.

With its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, thriving startups, and strong manufacturing base, India offers immense opportunities for deeper economic partnerships within the group.

India’s success in digital payments, fintech innovation, and e-governance provides models for scalable collaboration across BRICS economies. Initiatives like the BRICS Startup Forum, promoted by India, foster cross-border innovation and create pathways for youth-led economic growth.

Furthermore, India’s commitment to resilient and diversified supply chains aligns with BRICS efforts to reduce vulnerabilities in global trade systems.

PM Modi’s Brazil visit is likely to reinforce calls for greater cooperation in trade facilitation, digital commerce, and infrastructure connectivity.

A vision for global governance reform

India’s advocacy for reforming global governance structures, particularly the United Nations and international financial institutions, has been a consistent theme within BRICS.

With rising multipolarity and evolving global dynamics, India continues to stress the importance of making institutions more representative, transparent, and responsive to the needs of developing nations.

The Brazil summit provides another platform for India to reiterate its call for greater inclusion, fairer financial systems and strengthened multilateralism. India’s emphasis on sovereignty, mutual respect, and peaceful dialogue complements BRICS’ core principles and fosters unity within the group.

Looking ahead

As PM Modi prepares to join the BRICS Summit in Brazil, optimism surrounds India’s growing influence within the bloc.

With its strong economic fundamentals, leadership in innovation, and unwavering commitment to inclusive development, India is well-positioned to shape BRICS’ future direction.

The 17th summit promises to deepen cooperation, enhance shared prosperity, and reaffirm BRICS’ role as a positive force for global stability and progress. For India, it marks yet another milestone in its journey as a global leader, advocating for a more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive world order. (News Bomb)

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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is greeted by members of the Canadian Indigenous community, as he arrives for the G7 Leaders’ Summit held at the Rocky Mountain resort village of Kananaskis, at Calgary International Airport on Monday.. Photo: Reuters

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the 2025 G7 Summit in Canada marks a pivotal moment in the global power narrative. It is not just a high-level visit — it is a statement of how the world now views India: as an essential voice in shaping global outcomes.

The G7 — comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States — has long been regarded as the forum of the world’s most advanced economies. But the inclusion of India at the table underscores a profound shift. In today’s complex and multipolar world, no global challenge can be effectively addressed without India’s participation.

India is no longer on the sidelines of global decision-making. It is at the center. The country is currently the world’s fourth-largest economy and is set to become the third-largest before the end of the decade. It is also the most populous nation and one of the fastest-growing major economies — a rare combination of scale, speed, and stability.

India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure, green energy transitions, and resilient supply chains is increasingly being seen as a model for the Global South. As the world seeks reliable partners beyond traditional hubs, India’s role has expanded from regional anchor to global collaborator.

What sets India apart is its ability to build bridges across divides — East and West, North and South. It is one of the few countries that maintains productive ties across a broad geopolitical spectrum, offering a rare platform for inclusive dialogue in times of deepening global divides.

During its G20 presidency in 2023, India showcased its unique ability to convene, mediate, and push forward consensus on global priorities. That success laid the groundwork for its current stature — not just as a participant, but as a co-author of the global agenda.

Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, reflects the international recognition of this reality. His presence is not symbolic — it is strategic. It signals that India’s insights, partnerships, and leadership are vital to addressing the pressing challenges of our time: economic resilience, climate action, digital governance, and global security. The invitation extended by Mark Carney, Canada’s Prime Minister and G7 host, also marks a much-needed reset in India-Canada ties — one grounded in mutual strategic interest.

In a world searching for stability and foresight, India offers both. The G7’s embrace of India reflects a deeper understanding: the future of global leadership will be broad-based, inclusive, and anchored in cooperation across continents. And India will be central to that future. (Khaleej Times)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Calgary of Canada on Tuesday, June 17, to attend the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, marking a significant moment in India-Canada ties following a phase of strained diplomatic relations after the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

After landing in Canada, PM Modi said he would be meeting various leaders at the G7 Summit and emphasise the priorities of the Global South.

In a post on X, PM Narendra Modi said, “Landed in Calgary, Canada, to take part in the G7 Summit. Will be meeting various leaders at the Summit and sharing my thoughts on important global issues. Will also be emphasising the priorities of the Global South.”

PM Modi’s visit to Canada comes after a period of friction between New Delhi and Ottawa, triggered by Canadian allegations that Indian agents were involved in the killing of NIA-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Canada in 2023.

India had strongly rejected the allegations. The diplomatic standoff escalated as both countries expelled senior diplomats in a tit-for-tat response. New Delhi has consistently voiced concerns about extremism and anti-India activities on Canadian soil and urged Canadian authorities to take concrete steps to curb such elements.

Before landing in Canada, PM Narendra Modi was visiting Cyprus. Upon the conclusion of the visit, MEA Secretary (West) Tanmay Lal highlighted that this marked Prime Minister Modi’s first visit to Cyprus and the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than 20 years.

“This landmark visit highlights the enduring friendship and trusted partnership between our two countries,” Tanmay Lal said. (Live Mint)

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A protest has been held to condemn the Sri Lankan authorities’ move to remove street dogs in and around Colombo City during Indian PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka.

Several animal activists participated in the protest held in front of the Indian High Commission in Colombo, holding banners and placards.

According to protesters, the street dogs had been removed from Colombo City ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka. 

“Several local and foreign animal activists have gathered here today to condemn the government’s unreasonable decision. Narendra Modi is known as an animal lover. But our government has decided to remove these street dogs. We wonder if the decision was taken to beautify the town, or out of fear that the dogs would jump on the Indian PM or his vehicle. We will have to question the President on the reason to remove the dogs,” a protester told the media. (Newswire)

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Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe says all renewable energy proposals approved during his administration were subjected to a thorough evaluation process and were not influenced by financial or political interests.

Speaking on the 2023-2024 renewable energy project approvals, Wickremesinghe said several proposals were given the green light to attract much-needed foreign investment into Sri Lanka’s energy sector. “We approved around USD 2 to 2.5 billion worth of projects, following proper evaluations and pricing by project-specific committees,” he said.

He clarified the processes followed with both the Adani Group and Hayleys, highlighting that committees were appointed by the Finance Ministry and Cabinet to review each proposal before approval. “Final prices were decided based on reports by these committees. We ensured all decisions were made through official channels,” he added.

Commenting on environmental and infrastructure factors, Wickremesinghe pointed out that the Hayleys project underwent a government-led study on migratory birds in Mannar, while Adani had to fund their own. Land for the Hayleys project was provided through the CEB, whereas Adani had to purchase the land.

“All preliminary studies, feasibility assessments, and licensing costs were handled differently for each project depending on their specific circumstances,” he said, noting that Adani was required to fund several of these processes independently.

Dismissing allegations that monetary influence drove these projects, Wickremesinghe stated, “If someone claims money was taken, they must also name who gave the money. Is it being suggested that Adani paid bribes? Are we saying Adani violated laws in Sri Lanka or India?”

He also urged that such issues should not be politicized during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka, warning that unfounded allegations could harm diplomatic ties.

“We should focus on completing these projects and strengthening Sri Lanka–India relations in line with the joint statements issued in 2023 and 2024,” he said.

Wickremesinghe reaffirmed that the government will continue to work with India on energy cooperation, and stressed that any decision to halt projects must be backed by valid reasons.

Wickremesinghe was referring to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s stance that his government will not proceed with the power purchase agreement for the Mannar wind power plant unless the company agrees to the government’s proposed price.

Dissanayake said that the previous government had agreed to a rate of US$ 8.26 cents per unit, while the current agreement with a different company secured a deal at US$ 4.57 cents per unit—a difference that translates to Rs. 25 per unit instead of Rs. 13.

“We will never proceed until they agree to our price, irrespective of whatever agreement was signed,” President Dissanayake asserted. (Newswire)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a sneak peek on Saturday into the areas of discussion he held with computer scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman.

Lex Fridman is a research scientist who also hosts his podcast, “Lex Fridman Podcast.” In his podcasts, several personalities from various walks of life have discussed issues ranging from complex niches to other areas of mass understanding.

Notable figures include political leaders like US President Donald Trump, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Argentinian Prime Minister Javier Milei, as well as leading personalities in their fields, such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Sam Altman, Magnus Carlson, and Yuval Noah Harari.

Mr Fridman wrote on X, “I had an epic 3-hour podcast conversation with @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India. It was one of the most powerful conversations of my life. It’ll be out tomorrow.”

Responding to Mr Fridman, Prime Minister Modi called it a “fascinating conversation” and shared that he discussed various time periods of his life, such as his childhood days, to the years spent in the Himalayas and eventually his way into public life.

“It was indeed a fascinating conversation with @lexfridman, covering diverse topics including reminiscing about my childhood, the years in the Himalayas and the journey in public life. Do tune in and be a part of this dialogue!” PM Modi wrote on X.

Mr Fridman had announced on January 19 that he would conduct a podcast with PM Modi.

In a post on X, he said, “I will be doing a podcast with Narendra Modi (@narendramodi), Prime Minister of India, at the end of February. I’ve never been to India, so I’m excited to finally visit and experience many facets of its vibrant, historic culture and its amazing people as fully as I can.”

Earlier in February, Mr Fridman called PM Modi “one of the most fascinating human beings I have ever studied”.

He wrote on X, “Narendra Modi is one of the most fascinating human beings I have ever studied. I can’t wait to talk to him on the podcast for several hours in a few weeks. On top of the complex, deep history of India and his role in it, just the human side of Modi is really interesting. For example, he has often done multi-day fasts (9 days) for spiritual reasons. I fast often as well. So I’ll do a 48-72 hour fast once I arrive in India before talking to him. It’s a good opportunity to meditate and to reflect on how incredibly lucky I am to be alive, to have the weird brain that sees so much beauty in the world even though I’ve increasingly seen a lot of the darker sides of human nature. And most of all… To reflect on how lucky I am to have so much love in my life.”

Sharing the details, Mr Fridman said that the podcast conversation with the Prime Minister would be released at 5:30PM IST.

“Podcast should be published tomorrow (Sunday) around 8am EST / 5:30pm IST”, he wrote on X.

As per his official website, Lex Fridman has been a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) since 2015.

His podcasts cover several themes, such as artificial intelligence, global politics, cryptocurrency, productivity, global geopolitics, and technology. His YouTube page has 4.8 million subscribers with over 82,00,00,000 views. (NDTV/ ANI)

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Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the United States, Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), underlined the potential for strengthening bilateral ties, describing the meeting between PM Modi and President Donald Trump as a “fantastic opportunity” to advance both nations’ priorities, particularly in economic growth, defence cooperation, and technological collaboration.

Aghi also noted that while President Trump seeks to “drive change” domestically and internationally, India aims for increased investments and access to cutting-edge technology from the US.

“It is a fantastic opportunity between the two leaders and two countries…Trump is trying to drive change both domestically and internationally and India is looking at more investments and technology from the US. I think both leaders understand what are their priorities, they do have a very strong relationship and are warm towards each other. It is an important occasion to set the agenda for the next 4 years…,” Aghi told ANI.

Speaking on the defence cooperation between India and the US, Aghi spoke about the robust partnership the two nations share.

“Defence cooperation between the two countries is robust, there are no two other countries which have joined exercises other than the US and India,” Aghi noted.

Aghi also addressed the expectations surrounding defence orders, noting that President Trump hopes for India to engage in such orders. “There are expectations on the part of Trump to see if India can play some defence orders, it all depends on what PM Modi and defense teams are looking for,” he added.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of ORF America Dhruva Jaishankar, while underlining four main areas to watch for in the outcome of the meeting between PM Modi and President Donald Trump, also spoke about the defense agreements, which will be a significant area of focus.

Two types of agreements are expected: 1) Acquiring existing US inventory – India will seek to acquire more US aircraft and other equipment, and 2) Co-production and technological benefits – India will aim to secure co-production or co-technological benefits for new platforms, aligning with its priorities.

“There will be two kinds of defense agreements, partially reflective of the different priorities of the US and India. There are certain items which India already has, such as inventory from the US, which India wants to acquire more of, aircraft for example…For the US, it is important because it will help in creating jobs and narrowing the trade deficit, which is a big priority for President Trump…Another set of issues would be new platforms, where India will want to see some co-production or co-technological benefit for India as well,” he explained.

PM Modi will visit the US on February 12-13 at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. This will be the first meeting between the two leaders since President Trump assumed office for his second term. (ANI)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday welcomed the decision to set up the AI Foundation” and the Council for Sustainable AI, stating that he believed there was unity across all stakeholders in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

“I welcome the decision to set up the “AI Foundation” and the “Council for Sustainable AI”. I congratulate France and my dear friend President Macron for these initiatives and assure our full support,” PM Modi said.

In his concluding address at the AI Action Summit, which he co-chaired with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, PM Modi said “Today’s discussions have brought out one thing – there is unity in vision and unity in purpose across stakeholders.”

Stressing on the need to make the “Global Partnership for AI” truly global in nature, PMModi said “It should be more inclusive of the Global South and its priorities, concerns and needs.

“To build on the momentum of this Action Summit, India would be happy to host the next Summit,” Prime Minister Modi said.

In a post on X, PM Modi said that the summit was a commendable effort to foster meaningful conversations around AI.

“The AI Action Summit in Paris is a commendable effort to bring together world leaders, policy makers, thinkers, innovators and youngsters to have meaningful conversations around AI.”

Earlier, in his address at the AI Action Summit at the Grand Palais in Paris, Prime Minister Modi said that India is building its own Large Language Model.PM Modi said that the unique public-private partnership model is made available to Indian start-ups at an affordable cost.

“India is building its own large language model considering our diversity. We also have a unique public-private partnership model for pooling resources like compute power. It is made available to our startups and researchers at an affordable cost. India is ready to share its experience and expertise to ensure that AI future is for good and for all,” the Prime Minister said.

Stressing that India is at the dawn of the age of Artificial Intelligence, PM Modi said that machines can never overpower humans.

“We are at the dawn of the AI age that will shape the course of humanity. Some people worry about machines becoming superior in intelligence to humans. But no one holds the key to our collective future and shared destiny other than us humans. That sense of responsibility must guide us,” he said. (ANI)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday applauded the flourishing startup ecosystem in the country away from the major business centres, adding that the registration of startups in Nagaland has surged by over 200 per cent last year.

In his recent Mann Ki Baat address, he applauded the growth of India’s startup ecosystem, particularly in smaller cities.

He highlighted a 200 per cent surge in startup registrations in Nagaland last year, with key sectors including waste management, biotechnology, and logistics. “Waste Management, Non-Renewable Energy, Biotechnology and Logistics are the sectors in which the most number of start-ups are being noticed, “ Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated.

Addressing the 118th episode of Mann Ki Baat and the first of this year, the Prime Minister mentioned the completion of 9 years of Startup India.

He further added, “More than half of the startups that have been formed in our country in these 9 years are from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and when we hear that, every Indian’s heart is delighted with the fact that our startup culture is not limited to just big cities.”

Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the significant role played by women in these ventures, with many of the startups in smaller cities being led by daughters of India. Reflecting on the evolution of India’s startup culture, PM Modi emphasised the vast transformation over the last decade.

”Ten years ago, the idea of entering the startup world was met with skepticism, but today, India’s startup ecosystem has become a hub of innovation and opportunity. The Prime Minister urged young people to take full advantage of the new opportunities arising across the nation,” he added.

“10 years ago, when someone used to talk about entering the field of start-ups, one had to listen to many kinds of taunts. Some would ask, after all, what is a start-up? Others would say, That will not lead you anywhere! But see how big a changeup has come in a decade now! You too should take full advantage of the new opportunities being created in India. If you believe in yourself, your dreams will also soar to new heights,” the Prime Minister stated.

Going further, PM Modi highlighted that an Indian space-tech start-up, Pixxel from Bengaluru, has launched India’s first private satellite constellation–’Firefly’.’

“This satellite constellation is the world’s highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation. A few days ago, our scientists achieved another significant milestone in the space sector. Our scientists carried out satellite space docking,” PM Modi added. (The Hindu)

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in 31 Bilateral Meetings and informal interactions with global leaders during his three nation foreign visit to Nigeria, Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit and Guyana from November 16 to 21.

He held a bilateral meeting in Nigeria, 10 bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Brazil. Thereafter, during the visit to Guyana, he held 9 bilateral meetings, according to the official statment.

In Nigeria, PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Nigeria president Bola Ahmed Tinubu

In Brazil, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with leaders of Brazil, Indonesia, Portugal, Italy, Norway, France, UK, Chile, Argentina and Australia.

Amongst the 10 bilateral meetings in Brazil, this was the first meeting of PM Modi with 5 leaders: Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia president; Luis Montenegro, Portugal PM; Keir Starmer, UK PM, Gabriel Boric, Chile Presdent and Javier Milei, Argentina President, as per the statment.

In Brazil, PM also had informal interactions and pull aside meetings with leaders of Singapore, South Korea, Egypt, US and Spain and with the heads and executives of various international organisations like Ursula von der Leyen, European Union; Antonio Guterres, United Nations; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, World Trade Organization; Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organisation; and Kristalina Georgieva and Gita Gopinath, IMF.

In Guyana, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with leaders of Guyana, Dominica, Bahamas, Trinidad Tobago, Suriname, Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada and St. Lucia.

On Thursday night, PM Modi marked the final leg of a significant journey that began in Nigeria, continued in Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit, and concluded with a historic State visit to Guyana.

The three-nation tour showcased India’s growing global engagement, with pivotal discussions in Nigeria, active participation in the G20 Summit in Brazil, and reinforcing ties with the Caribbean during the historic Guyana visit. (ANI)

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On October 12, 2024, the Indian government announced significant advancements in the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, marking its third anniversary since its launch in 2021.

This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure planning and execution through integrated data sharing and international collaboration. The Indian government is actively working to extend the PM GatiShakti framework beyond national borders. Diplomatic engagements are currently underway with countries including Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Senegal, and Gambia to promote the use of geospatial technology in infrastructure development.

This will be done through leveraging geospatial technology for integrated infrastructure planning in collaboration with India’s neighboring countries. A recent statement from the Indian Commerce Ministry highlighted plans to provide secure access to non-sensitive data for non-governmental users involved in developmental activities. This would help these developing and underdeveloped countries streamline their infrastructure building and inculcate the Indian best-practices to catapult their development journey.

Launched by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2021, PM GatiShakti has dramatically altered how India approaches infrastructure projects. The Indian nodal ministry emphasized that the initiative has fostered a paradigm shift by integrating data from 44 central ministries and 36 states/UTs of the country, resulting in a more efficient, transparent and synchronised system. The PM GatiShakti framework employs GIS-based tools and real-time monitoring systems that support informed decision-making.

The integration of over 1,600 data layers has streamlined project execution, reduced logistics costs, and enhanced service delivery across the country.The initiative has also expanded its focus to include social sector ministries, aiming to address gaps in essential services such as healthcare and education.The platform is also integral to achieving India’s commitment to Net Zero emissions by 2070, promoting sustainable logistics solutions.

Looking ahead, PM GatiShakti aims to incorporate emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into its planning processes. This focus on technological integration is expected to further revolutionize infrastructure management in India.

The PM GatiShakti initiative is closely aligned with the National Logistics Policy (NLP), addressing critical infrastructure gaps while improving India’s logistics performance. According to the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index Report (2023), India’s rank improved from 44th in 2018 to 38th this year, reflecting the positive impact of these initiatives.The technological sophistication and comprehensive nature of this master plan could similarly benefit the developing world, reinforcing India’s role as a leader and voice for the Global South.

With the proposal to grant countries worldwide access to the Gati Shakti Masterplan, India is poised to emerge as a key player in global infrastructure development. The By sharing the best practices that have helped India navigate various challenges, this initiative could position India as a pioneer in infrastructure development. The prospect of other countries benefiting from a concept and technology developed entirely in India will further enhance the country’s aspirations of becoming a ‘Vishwaguru’ on the global stage.

It seems that the world is taking notice of India’s success, positioning India as a role model for emerging economies. As PM GatiShakti continues its journey towards international collaboration and enhanced infrastructure planning, it stands as a testament to India’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure landscape while ensuring sustainable development for future generations, not just for India but for the whole world. (Times of Oman)

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One of the notable aspects of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lao PDR was that he was the first leader who addressed the 19th East Asia Summit (EAS) after the host and incoming chair, signifying India’s importance in ASEAN.

He was also recognised as the only leader to have participated in the greatest number of East Asia Summits, the count is nine out of 19! As the event also coincided with completion of a decade of India’s Act East policy, it was only fitting that PM Modi also participated in the 21st ASEAN-India Summit. While outcomes of the visit are still being assessed, the most notable aspect of the visit was the bilateral aspect of the engagements. Going by statistics, this is the 11th time that PM Modi has attended these events. It demonstrates India’s intense focus as well as commitment to both the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the East Asia process. During the ASEAN-India Summit, ASEAN leaders and the Prime Minister reviewed the state of bilateral relations and praised cooperation in many areas of diverse collaboration arising from India’s ‘Act East’ policy. Additionally, they mentioned India’s leadership role in building digital public infrastructure in ASEAN.

Speaking at the 19th EAS, PM Modi noted that India had always supported ASEAN unity, adding that the region is “at the centre” of India’s Indo-Pacific vision and Quad cooperation. He used the EAS platform to reiterate his call for the restoration of peace and stability in Eurasia and West Asia, noting that these conflicts were having the most negative impact on the countries of the Global South. Set against the recent Quad Summit in Wilmington Delaware (21 He highlighted that there were deep parallels between India’s ‘Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative and the ‘ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific’ and added that a free, open, inclusive, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific was vital for the peace and progress of the entire region.

That is the larger context in which bilateral talks between PM Modi and his Lao PDR counterpart, Sonexay Siphandone, were held in Vientiane. The official release after the visit shows that both Prime Ministers held productive talks on further strengthening India-Laos civilizational and contemporary ties. Pertinently, the historical and civilizational links have been successfully recalled and strengthened. Both leaders also discussed various aspects of bilateral cooperation such as the development partnership, capacity building, disaster management, renewable energy, heritage restoration, economic ties, defence collaboration, and people-to-people ties.

Following bilateral talks, MoUs/Agreement in the fields of defence, broadcasting, Customs cooperation, and three Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) under Mekong-Ganga Cooperation were signed and exchanged. All three QIPs, with grant assistance of US$ 50,000 each, are for preservation of the heritage of the Lao Ramayana, restoration of Wat Pakea Buddhist temple with murals related to Ramayana, and support to shadow puppetry theatre on Ramayana in Champasak province. Bilateral cultural and civilizational links were strengthened when the two leaders noted that ongoing restoration and conservation of Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with assistance from the Archaeological Survey of India, was going well.

India will also provide grant assistance of about US$ 1 million to improve nutrition security in Lao PDR. This assistance channelled through the India UN Development Partnership Fund is the Fund’s first such project in South-East Asia. Only recently, India provided flood relief assistance to Lao PDR in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi. Prime Minister Siphandone thanked Prime Minister Modi for India’s assistance in this regard. Two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the close cooperation between the countries in regional and multilateral fora. PM Siphandone reaffirmed India’s role on the international stage. India has strongly supported Lao PDR’s Chairmanship of ASEAN for 2024. Pertinently, Lao PDR has been the Country-Coordinator for India in ASEAN for three years from July 2003, during which Laos played a pivotal role in coordinating and further strengthening India’s ties with ASEAN. On its part, India has undertaken several initiatives to push for Lao PDR as ASEAN Chair in 2024. One instance of this is the path-breaking role played by India in creating digital public infrastructure and the other is achieving financial inclusion in ASEAN. Creating digital infrastructure is a shared high priority for which India has been working both bilaterally as well as regionally, with ASEAN member countries, including Lao PDR.

Congratulating Lao PDR for the successful stewardship of ASEAN, PM Modi announced a 10-point special plan to strengthen connectivity and resilience with ASEAN. One of the initiatives announced includes, celebrating next year as the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism. ASEAN leaders welcomed this as a very positive development. It was also announced that India will contribute US$ 5 million towards joint cooperative activities in this area. To mark completion of a decade of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, several people-to-people and people-centric initiatives were announced. One of them is a Youth Summit. Another is a music festival of ASEAN bands with Indian bands. There will also be an Artist Camp. A Hackathon, Startup Festival, the Delhi Dialogue has been announced for next month. The ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks will also meet next month.

Historically, India’s cultural links with ASEAN cover both Hindu and Buddhist influences. One legend has it that King Ashoka’s emissaries brought a relic of the Buddha to Laos, believed to be underneath the Pha That Luang, Laos’ national monument in Vientiane. The other historical connect is Vat Phou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an ancient Khmer Hindu temple complex in southern Laos and in ancient times was known as the Shiva temple of Bhadreshwara. The Ramayana, known locally as Ramakien or the Story of Phra Lak Phra Ram, is performed on auspicious occasions. Lao PDR has developed, almost as a fine art, its own version of the Hindu epic Ramayana in ballet form. These traditional and cultural links are evident even today in various ways in Lao PDR religion, with a sprinkling of both Buddhist and Hindu influences and can be seen in language (with roots in Sanskrit and Pali), art and architecture, philosophy, customs and social ethos.

With 20% of India’s diaspora worldwide living in the ASEAN region, the India-ASEAN connect is important. Notably, India currently has direct flights with seven members of the 10-state bloc, and direct flight connectivity with two more countries is expected to be established by the end of the year. It is, therefore, important for India to continue working with countries in the bilateral and multilateral format. PM Modi’s Lao PDR visit provides the ideal opportunity to revisit the Act East policy and reinvigorate the relationship to take it to a new dimension and level. (Vietnam Times)

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