On May 22, 2025, the United Kingdom (U.K.) officially transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, marking a significant milestone in the resolution of a long-standing territorial dispute. This agreement was finalized after extensive negotiations that began in 2022, culminating in a political treaty signed in October 2024. Here are the key points elucidating the historical and legal backdrop of this development:

• Historical Context: The Chagos Islands, including the prominent Diego Garcia, were incorporated into the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) in 1965, following the British acquisition of the islands from France in the early 19th century.

• Colonial Background: Guinea claimed sovereignty over these islands after its independence from British rule in 1968. The U.K. paid £3 million for the detachment of Chagos Islands from Mauritius as part of independence negotiations.

• Displacement of Chagossians: Between 1968 and 1973, the British government forcibly removed approximately 10,000 Chagossians to establish a military base on Diego Garcia under an agreement with the United States (U.S.) that allowed the latter to use the base for defense purposes.

• Legal Challenges: Mauritius has consistently claimed the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, asserting violations of international law regarding the decolonization process. The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruled in 2015 that the U.K.'s designation of the BIOT as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) was incompatible with its UN obligations, asserting Mauritius' right to benefit from resources in the area.

• International Court of Justice (ICJ): On February 25, 2019, the ICJ determined that the U.K.’s separation of the Chagos Archipelago was unlawful and urged a swift end to British administration, mandating cooperation from all UN member states towards completing Mauritius' decolonization.

• Terms of the Agreement: Under the new deal, Mauritius retains sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, leasing Diego Garcia back to the U.K. for £101 million annually over 99 years, with a graduated payment structure.

  • The first three years will see costs at £165 million annually, reducing to £120 million for years four to thirteen, then indexed to inflation.
  • A 24-mile buffer zone surrounding Diego Garcia has been established restricting construction without U.K. approval, and no foreign military presence will be allowed without U.K. consent.
  • The U.K. is set to create a £40 million trust fund to support the Chagossian community.

• Strategic Implications: This agreement is seen as crucial for British national security and the operational sustainability of the Diego Garcia base, which is a pivotal military asset in the Indian Ocean used by the U.S. and its allies in the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence alliance. The potential influence of China in the region was cited as a factor that motivated the U.K. to secure this agreement with Mauritius.

• Responses: The deal has garnered mixed reactions within the U.K., with opposition from the Conservative Party, who express concern over national security and financial implications.

• Regional Diplomacy: India played a supportive role in facilitating discussions, emphasizing the importance of resolving the decolonization issues through mutual negotiations and has reiterated its backing for Mauritius’s sovereignty claims. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has affirmed its commitment to enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean alongside Mauritius.

• Court Challenges: Following the announcement of the treaty, a legal challenge was made by two Chagossians seeking the right to return to the islands but was dismissed by the U.K. High Court.

In conclusion, the formal handover marks a significant stride in resolving historical injustices and territorial disputes while balancing international strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Important Facts:

• The U.K. handed over sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius on May 22, 2025.
• The terms include leasing Diego Garcia to the U.K. for £101 million annually over 99 years.
• The historical exodus of Chagossians began in 1968, affecting around 10,000 individuals.
• The U.K. and U.S. have collective interests in maintaining military presence in Diego Garcia.
• India has actively supported Mauritius’s claims, enhancing its strategic role in the region.

The military confrontation between India and Pakistan that initiated on May 7, 2023, marks the most extensive hostilities since the 1971 war, culminating in a ceasefire on May 10. This conflict's escalation can be methodically analyzed using military strategist Herman Kahn's 44-step escalation ladder, beginning with the terrorist attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in 26 casualties. The chain of events unfolded as follows:

Key Developments:

• April 22, 2023: Terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, leads to India's escalatory response.
• April 23, 2023: India begins a series of political and economic sanctions against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, halting trade, shutting airspace, and engaging in visa cancellations for Pakistani nationals.
• May 2023:
  • Kahn's "Ostensible Crisis" leads to formal declarations of intent for retribution by Indian authorities. PM Modi vows to take action against terrorists and their shelters.
  • Heightened military displays include test-firing by the Indian Navy and Pakistan’s Abdali missile, marking significant mobilization efforts by both nations.
• May 7-10, 2023: Intense military confrontations occur, with India targeting terrorist sites in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and thwarting drone attacks, sustaining hostilities at level 9 (Dramatic Military Confrontations) on Kahn's scale.

Strategic Context:

• Kahn's theories on military escalation began post-World War II, focusing on the various stages of conflict escalation. India and Pakistan's current interactions embody these stages, illustrating the heightened risks of conflict due to the ingrained strategies derived from historical encounters and new military doctrines.

India's Revised Military Doctrine:

• PM Modi articulated a new approach to terrorism, emphasizing:
  • A comprehensive response on India's terms.
  • Zero tolerance towards nuclear threats from Pakistan.
  • A lack of distinction between terrorist organizations and their state sponsors.

This new policy allows a more aggressive stance towards the Pakistani establishment that has historically supported cross-border terrorism.

Emerging Challenges:

• International Perception: India faces the challenge of countering Pakistan’s narrative portraying itself as a victim which could lead to diplomatic complications. The Indian government is enhancing outreach globally to assert that it was responding in self-defense following the Pahalgam attacks.
• U.S. Involvement: President Donald Trump's assertion of a "U.S.-brokered ceasefire" adds complexity to the situation, with India traditionally rejecting third-party mediation in its bilateral issues. This necessitates a nuanced diplomatic approach from India in response to such assertions.
• Future Military Strategy: India must enhance its military capabilities beyond traditional warfare to include technological advancements in modern warfare, emphasizing readiness across land, sea, and air domains.

Conclusion:

The military standoff between India and Pakistan underscores a more aggressive Indian military doctrine aimed at countering terrorism originating from Pakistan. As hostilities bring a renewed focus on strategic escalations, India's emphasis on decisiveness in military responses and diplomatic maneuvering is crucial. Future responses to potential terrorist activities may escalate quickly up the ladder of escalation, emphasizing the need for robust national strategies in both military and diplomatic domains.

Important Sentences:

• The confrontation between India and Pakistan initiated on May 7 is the most extensive since the 1971 war.
• Herman Kahn's 44-step escalation ladder effectively frames the sequence of events following the terrorist attack on April 22.
• India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and halted trade with Pakistan post-terrorist attack.
• PM Modi articulated a new aggressive military doctrine against terrorism in May 2023.
• India is countering Pakistan’s narrative through international diplomacy that portrays India as a self-defending nation.
• The enhancement of military capabilities in modern warfare remains a priority for India in face of evolving threats.

On May 29, 2025, several significant developments occurred across various sectors, ranging from international relations to judicial appointments in India, and ongoing issues related to education and trade with the United States.

International Relations

• India-Pakistan Relations: India's Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that any engagement with Pakistan would need to be bilateral, emphasizing that discussions on trade, the Indus Waters Treaty, or Jammu and Kashmir will not occur as long as Pakistan supports cross-border terrorism.
• Middle East Ceasefire: The U.S. government announced that Israel accepted a proposal for a temporary ceasefire with Hamas. This development follows optimistic remarks by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff regarding renewing negotiations to halt hostilities in the region and improve conditions for hostage returns.
• Bangladesh Governance: India's Ministry of External Affairs reminded Bangladesh that the responsibility for law and order rests with its interim government, cautioning against attempts to deflect from internal governance issues.

Economic and Legal Updates

• Tariff Collection in the U.S.: A federal appeals court ruled that President Donald Trump may continue to collect tariffs using emergency powers as his administration contests a prior judgment that invalidated much of his economic policy.
• International Student Visas: The Ministry of External Affairs expressed hope that visa processes for Indian students aspiring to study in the U.S. would be completed in time for the academic year.
• Harvard University Lawsuit: A federal judge extended an order preventing the Trump administration from blocking Harvard's enrollment of foreign students as litigation progresses.

Judicial Appointments

• The Union Government appointed three new judges to the Supreme Court, raising its total to the sanctioned strength of 34. Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced these appointments via social media.

Defense and Security

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed ongoing operations against terrorism, asserting that Pakistan has not offered any positive contributions and has been a harbinger of terrorism. He cited significant achievements in neutralizing terror hideouts within Pakistan.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the role of women in military operations against terrorism, particularly during Operation Sindoor, which targeted locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir.

Domestic Issues

• Relief for Poonch Residents: Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, urged the government to provide a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package for residents in Poonch (J&K) impacted by cross-border shelling.

Sports

• In the sports arena, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a place in the IPL final after an impressive bowling performance against the Punjab Kings, restricting them to just 101 runs.

Legal Developments

• The Delhi High Court instructed YouTuber Mohak Mangal to edit his video targeting the news agency ANI, which included allegations of extortion and other serious accusations.

Key Points

• India maintains a firm stance on bilateral engagement with Pakistan contingent on counter-terrorism.
• A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been accepted, which may facilitate hostage negotiations.
• The judiciary in the U.S. is currently involved in high-profile cases regarding immigration policy and student enrollment.
• The Supreme Court of India has reached its full strength with recent judicial appointments.
• Prime Minister Modi emphasizes significant military actions against terrorism linked to Pakistan.
• Diplomatic relations with Bangladesh remain delicate, with a focus on governance issues.
• The IPL has seen the Royal Challengers Bengaluru moving to the finals, igniting fan hopes for their first title.
• The Delhi High Court continues to address issues surrounding social media content and accountability.

In the early hours of May 8, an escalation of military conflict occurred between India and Pakistan, triggered by missile and drone attacks originating from Pakistan. Concurrently, a significant wave of misinformation flooded social media platforms, complicating the situation and impacting public perception. This misinformation included doctored images and videos purportedly depicting military actions, which were later debunked by fact-checkers.

Key Events and Observations:

• Military Conflict Initiation: On May 8, missiles and drones were launched from Pakistan, prompting India's military response.

• Misinformation Offensive: Following the military actions, a coordinated misinformation campaign began:

  • An old image purportedly showing an explosion at an Indian Air Force base was shared, which was actually from Kabul Airport in August 2021.
  • A video claiming an attack on Hazira Port was revealed to depict an unrelated oil tanker explosion from 2021.
  • A viral video falsely associated with drone strikes in Jalandhar was actually footage of a previously existing farm fire.
  • Claims about a fictitious Indian battalion being attacked were debunked, highlighting the presence of fabricated military narratives.

• Weaponization of Video Games: The Centre for the Study of Organised Hate Crimes reported that video game footage was manipulated with patriotic overlays to fabricate war narratives.

Propaganda Tactics:

• Organized Networks: The spread of misinformation was attributed to coordinated networks utilizing modern marketing techniques, such as microtargeting and algorithm manipulation, rather than random individuals.

• Emotional Amplification: Misinformation fosters a sense of emotional connection and relief among individuals during conflicts, as highlighted by psychological assessments. Citizens often share content that resonates emotionally, rather than factually accurate information.

Impact of Misinformation:

• Latency of Misinformation: False narratives can spread rapidly, far outpacing fact-checking efforts, leading to heightened fear and distorted public opinion.

• Feedback Loops: The integration of television, social media, and messaging platforms creates continuous reinforcement of emotional narratives, complicating public understanding of factual events.

• Data Voids: High-anxiety scenarios create information vacuums where unverified reports thrive, leading individuals into cycles of misinformation as they seek clarity.

Diplomatic and Governmental Reactions:

• Influence on Public Opinion: The perception shaped by digital misinformation can significantly distort realities, influencing diplomacy and government responses. The government’s voice can be muffled amid the noise of public dissent illustrated through online platforms.

• Countermeasures: In response to the misinformation, governments globally are enhancing their cyber commands to include fact-checking and misinformation counteroffensives as part of national defense strategies. In India, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit plays a key role in debunking false narratives.

Recommendations for Mitigating Misinformation:

• Embracing Humility in Uncertainty: During such conflicts, experts suggest tolerating a lack of information might serve as a more effective strategy against the spread of misinformation, rather than succumbing to anxiety-driven information consumption.

This incident reflects the intersection of military and digital battlefields, emphasizing the importance of discerning credible information in the face of escalating narratives fueled by misinformation.

Important Sentences:

• Missiles and drones were launched by Pakistan on May 8, marking an escalation in military conflict.
• A significant wave of misinformation on social media accompanied the military actions.
• Coordinated networks rather than random individuals drove the spread of misinformation, employing advanced tactics.
• Misinformation provided emotional relief but distorted factual understanding during conflicts.
• The latency in the spread of misinformation complicates counteractions and raises public fears.
• The government’s response included enhancing fact-checking mechanisms amid the rampant misinformation.

The Indian government has initiated a proactive diplomatic effort by organizing seven all-party parliamentary delegations comprising 59 sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) to visit over 30 countries. This initiative aims to communicate India's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism globally. Notable leaders of these delegations include Baijayant Panda, Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Sanjay Kumar Jha, Shashi Tharoor, Shrikant Eknath Shinde, and Supriya Sule.

Historical Context of Indian Parliamentary Diplomacy

• International Parliamentary Organizations: Post-independence, India joined the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). The IPU, established in 1888 with nine UK and 25 French parliamentarians, now comprises 181 countries. Conversely, the CPA, created in 1911, consists of parliaments from the British Commonwealth.
• Functions: Both organizations serve as platforms for ongoing discussions on democracy and legislative matters, allowing India to present its perspective and strengthen connections with other national legislatures.

Evolution of Parliamentary Engagement

• Early Perceptions: Initially, parliamentary diplomacy faced skepticism, with MPs viewing participation in foreign delegations as a reward rather than a responsibility. However, this attitude shifted significantly after events in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1971.
• Bangladesh Liberation Crisis: The crackdown by the Pakistani military on civilians in East Pakistan drew robust responses from Indian MPs, uniting them to voice support for the Bengali population. This situation guided India's diplomatic strategy, particularly at two significant international meetings in September 1971—the IPU conference in Paris and the CPA meeting in Kuala Lumpur.

Diplomatic Triumphs of 1971

• At the IPU meeting in Paris, attended by 500 parliamentarians, India successfully placed the East Bengal human rights issue on the agenda. Under the leadership of Lok Sabha Speaker G S Dhillon, India's delegation highlighted the atrocities occurring in East Pakistan, leading to a unanimous resolution that called for the return of refugees to their homeland.
• Furthermore, Speaker Dhillon's prior diplomatic outreach in Afghanistan and Iran was instrumental in garnering support for India's position.

Outcomes and Implications

• The successful advocacy by the Indian parliamentarians not only highlighted the issues stemming from Pakistan's military actions but also solidified India's diplomatic footprint in international diplomatic spheres.
• The Indian delegation's engagement with various nations resulted in increased international awareness and assistance regarding the refugee crisis.

Key Historical References

• First General Elections in Pakistan (1970): Resulted in Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Awami League winning 160 out of 300 seats, leading to significant unrest and military intervention in East Pakistan.
• The 1971 IPU Conference became a landmark event for India in international parliamentary diplomacy, reflecting how legislative actions can impact global discourse.

Important Notes

• This robust participation in international diplomacy by Indian MPs underscores the evolving role of parliamentary diplomacy in India's foreign policy strategy.
• The interconnection between parliamentary diplomacy and government strategy remains significant in shaping international relations and securing geopolitical interests.

Conclusion

This comprehensive diplomatic initiative illustrates the importance of parliamentary engagement in addressing global challenges like terrorism and human rights violations while reflecting India's active role in the international community. By leveraging its legislative strengths, India aims to build stronger alliances and articulate its positions effectively on the global stage.

The news article discusses the strategic shift in international dynamics resulting from the withdrawal of the United States from key global agreements and its implications for China’s rising influence in the world. This analysis highlights the key events and data associated with these changes, particularly regarding the World Health Organization (WHO) and climate accords, while illustrating China's proactive efforts to assume a leading role in multilateral institutions.

Key Points:

• U.S. Withdrawal from International Commitments:

  • Under President Donald Trump, the U.S. has disengaged from significant global agreements, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Agreement.
  • The U.S. exit represents a substantial reduction in its involvement in global health and climate change initiatives.

• World Health Organization (WHO):

  • The 78th World Health Assembly approved a budget without U.S. participation for the first time, marking a historic transition in the organization’s funding dynamics.
  • Trump criticized the WHO for alleged bias towards China and mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, claiming its financial demands were excessively high.
  • China, in response to the U.S. withdrawal, committed an additional $500 million to the WHO over five years and significantly increased its membership dues, enhancing its share of assessed payments from 6.5% to 15% (2024-25).
  • Comparatively, the U.S. historically contributed around 20% of total assessed funding to the WHO.

• Paris Agreement and Climate Change Contributions:

  • The U.S. formally withdrew from the Paris Agreement, declaring an end to its financial commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
  • The U.S. accounted for nearly 22% of the UNFCCC’s core budget, with China contributing 17%, making it the second-largest contributor.

• China's Expanding Influence:

  • China has rapidly increased its sovereignty debt position globally, with its share of bilateral sovereign debt rising from 1% in 2003 to approximately 26% by 2023.
  • In contrast, the U.S. share of bilateral debts owed has dramatically decreased from 36% in 1973 to just 4% in 2023.
  • China is recognized as the world’s largest debt collector, positioning itself strategically across many nations.

• Public Opinion and Perception:

  • A Pew Research Center survey in 2024 indicated that over 60% of respondents in 21 countries recognize significant economic influence from China.
  • The Democracy Perception Index, released by the Alliance of Democracies Foundation, found that 76 of 96 surveyed countries held a more favorable view of China compared to only 20 for the U.S.

• Remarks by Chinese Officials:

  • Chen Xu, China’s Ambassador to Geneva, noted the need for adapting international practices in the absence of U.S. involvement, emphasizing that "life goes on" without American participation.

This article illustrates a pivotal moment in global governance with further implications for diplomatic, economic, and health-related policies. China's calculated investments and contributions are indicative of its strategic intention to fill the leadership void left by a retreating U.S., highlighting a potential shift in the global power balance. The ongoing influence exerted by China in international institutions suggests a reconfiguration of alliances and responsibilities in addressing global challenges.

India's goods exports to the UK, valued at approximately $775 million, are at risk of significant tariffs under the UK’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), despite the recent conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Here are the key points from the article:

• Background on CBAM: Introduced by the UK and originally proposed by the European Union, CBAM is intended to impose duties of up to 35% on carbon-intensive products, including iron, steel, and aluminium.

• FTA Details: Although India and the UK reached an FTA allowing 99% of Indian exports to enter duty-free, CBAM was not included in this agreement. UK officials confirmed that such mechanisms typically do not form part of FTAs.

• India's Negotiation Efforts: India sought a carve-out for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from the CBAM's extensive data requirements. Exporters expressed concerns about potential breaches of confidential trade data when complying with carbon tax stipulations.

• Concerns About Compliance and Industry Impact: Experts highlighted the potential negative impact of CBAM on Indian exports, estimating that it could affect $775 million worth of trade. The Indian government has indicated that it reserves the right to impose domestic taxes on carbon-intensive goods, which would enable the avoidance of UK taxes and possibly fund India’s sustainability initiatives.

• Implementation Timeline: The CBAM is set to take effect in 2027 and will initially target several carbon-intensive sectors such as iron, steel, aluminum, fertilizers, and cement.

• WTO Challenges: As the FTA did not secure any concessions, India could contest CBAM at the World Trade Organization (WTO) on the grounds that it violates special and differential treatment (SDT) provisions. These provisions are designed to afford developing countries additional protection and longer implementation periods for trade measures.

• WTO Dispute Settlement Challenges: Currently, the WTO's Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) is inoperative, which may hinder prompt resolution of any disputes arising from CBAM should India pursue this route.

• Potential Outcomes at WTO: Trade law experts note the likelihood of an unfavorable ruling against CBAM at the WTO, particularly given the EU's support for the institution. Instead of a complete withdrawal of the mechanism, adjustments to regulations may occur.

• EU’s Stance on Carbon Tax: The European Union has refused to negotiate on carbon tax issues raised by Russia, asserting non-consultation until Russia adheres to international law regarding the war in Ukraine. Russia has argued that CBAM is discriminatory and trade-restrictive.

In summary, while the FTA has allowed for enhanced trade between India and the UK, the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism poses serious challenges for Indian exporters. The implications for international trade relations, particularly concerning compliance, economic impacts, and potential WTO challenges, are significant considerations for both nations moving forward.

Important Sentences:

• India’s goods exports to the UK valued at $775 million are at risk of higher duties under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
• CBAM seeks to impose tariffs of up to 35% on carbon-intensive products.
• India sought a carve-out for MSMEs from the CBAM data requirements during negotiations.
• The UK’s CBAM is set to take effect in 2027 and will initially target several sectors, including steel and aluminium.
• India could challenge CBAM at the WTO, invoking provisions for special and differential treatment for developing countries.
• The likelihood of adverse rulings against the EU’s CBAM at the WTO is considered low by trade law experts.
• The European Union has rejected negotiations with Russia on the carbon tax, maintaining non-consultation conditions due to the conflict in Ukraine.

On May 28, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a significant shift in the visa policies pertaining to Chinese students. This decision is aimed at increasing scrutiny regarding visa applications and revoking existing visas for those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) or those pursuing education in critical fields.

Key Aspects of the Announcement:

• Revocation of Visas: The U.S. will begin revoking visas of certain Chinese students, specifically targeting individuals linked to the CCP or studying in critical areas.

• Increased Scrutiny: The Department of State plans to revise the criteria for visa applications from China and Hong Kong, intending to implement more rigorous screening processes for future applicants.

• Current Statistics: According to the Institute of International Education, in the 2023/2024 academic year, China had the second highest number of international students in the U.S. at 277,398.

• Halting New Appointments: On May 27, 2025, it was reported that the U.S. Department of State had halted new appointments for student and exchange visitor visa applicants.

• Hardline Immigration Stance: The announcement reflects a continuation of the hardline immigration policies initiated during the Trump administration, which included enhanced social media vetting of foreign students, a focus on ramping up deportations, and revoking student visas to strengthen national security.

• Chinese Embassy Response: As of the announcement, there had been no immediate comment from the Chinese Embassy in Washington, indicating a potential diplomatic sensitivity regarding the issue.

This development marks a critical turning point in U.S.-China relations, particularly in the context of educational exchanges. The implications of these policies may extend beyond individual students, potentially affecting broader diplomatic and economic ties.

Important Sentences:

• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa revocation for Chinese students connected to the CCP or studying in critical fields on May 28, 2025.
• The U.S. will enhance scrutiny of visa applications from China and Hong Kong.
• China hosts the second-largest number of international students in the U.S. for the 2023/2024 academic year, totaling 277,398.
• The U.S. Department of State halted new appointments for student and exchange visitor visas on May 27, 2025.
• These actions are in line with the Trump administration's hardline immigration agenda, emphasizing social media vetting and increased deportations.
• The Chinese Embassy has yet to respond to the new visa revocation policy announcement.

This policy shift underscores the evolving tension between the U.S. and China, particularly in the realms of education and immigration, with possible long-term effects on international student mobility and diplomatic relations.

Summary:

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan is set to attend the 22nd edition of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore from May 30 to June 01, 2025. This event, organized annually by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, is recognized as Asia’s foremost defense and security summit, focusing on critical Indo-Pacific security challenges.

During this summit, General Chauhan is scheduled to engage in bilateral discussions with various Chiefs of Defence Forces and military leaders from numerous countries, including Australia, the European Union, France, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The dialogue aims to reinforce defense diplomacy and foster strategic partnerships in the region.

Key features of General Chauhan's participation include:

• Addressing Academia and Think Tanks: He will deliver a talk on ‘Future Wars and Warfare,’ showcasing India’s perspective on evolving warfare dynamics.

• Special Sessions Participation: The CDS will also take part in special sessions, providing insights on ‘Defence Innovation Solutions for Future Challenges,’ highlighting India’s approaches to modern defense technologies and strategies.

The Shangri-La Dialogue will convene leaders from approximately 40 nations, focusing on Indo-Pacific Security challenges. This platform allows for crucial discussions on enhancing mutual security interests and strengthening defense cooperation among participating nations.

Key Points:

• General Anil Chauhan will attend the Shangri-La Dialogue from May 30 to June 01, 2025.

• The event is hosted by the International Institute for Strategic Studies and is Asia's top defense summit.

• The summit will feature engagement with military leaders from Australia, EU, France, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, UK, and USA.

• General Chauhan will address the academic community on ‘Future Wars and Warfare.’

• He will also present at special sessions on ‘Defence Innovation Solutions for Future Challenges.’

• This year's dialogue will have participation from leaders of approximately 40 nations, focusing on key Indo-Pacific security issues.

• The overall objective of the summit is to enhance India’s strategic partnerships and defense cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Summary:

On May 27, 2025, an all-party delegation from India, led by BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad, concluded its visit to France, highlighting the strong bilateral collaboration against terrorism, particularly in relation to threats originating from Pakistan. The meeting at the grand Luxembourg Palace included members of the India-France Friendship Group and representatives from the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee.

Key Points from the Delegation Visit:

• Solidarity Against Terrorism: France reiterated its unwavering support for India in combating terrorism linked to Pakistan. Ravi Shankar Prasad emphasized the importance of a united stance from the democratic world against such threats.

• Engagements in France: The delegation engaged in discussions with French senators, with the sentiment that both nations should maintain a cohesive front against terrorism. Members expressed gratitude for the support received from the French political community.

• India-France Partnership: Thierry Tesson, president of the India-France Friendship Group, highlighted the longstanding partnership between India and France, which he described as promising for future cooperation. He affirmed that both nations are combating terrorism actively.

• Acknowledgment of Global Terrorism: Alongside Prasad, other MPs and figures from the delegation, including former Union Minister M.J. Akbar, raised concerns about the pervasive nature of terrorism in Pakistan, indicating that terrorism has become an instrument of state policy.

• Expansion of Diplomatic Outreach: The European trip is part of a broader diplomatic effort by India, involving all-party delegations expressing India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism globally. This visit is part of a series of 33 delegations aimed at raising awareness about Pakistan's activities and their repercussions on global security.

• Context of Terrorism: The discussions were prompted by heightened tensions following the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, reinforcing the urgency of the dialogue surrounding international terrorism linked to Pakistan.

Future Engagements:

• After concluding in France, the delegation is set to continue discussions in Italy, followed by visits to Denmark, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Germany. This itinerary underscores India's commitment to engaging with international allies on counter-terrorism strategies.

In summary, the visit to France has served as a platform for reinforcing diplomatic ties, with a strong focus on countering terrorism and articulating India's perspective on the threats posed by Pakistan, underlining the importance of global collaboration on this pressing issue.

Important points:

• France supports India against terrorism from Pakistan.
• The visit included the India-France Friendship Group and Foreign Affairs Committee discussions.
• Emphasis on a united front among democratic nations against terrorism.
• Thierry Tesson noted the strong partnership between India and France.
• Concerns raised about terrorism as a state policy in Pakistan.
• Delegation part of 33 worldwide teams advocating for India's anti-terrorism stance.
• The visit follows the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025.
• Future engagements scheduled in Italy, Denmark, U.K., Belgium, and Germany.