News articles and essays on the Indian diplomacy at work around the world.
The discussions reflected the changing character of India–Spain economic ties. Traditional trade remains important, while emerging sectors are creating a broader foundation for long-term cooperation.
According to the Prime Minister, both Indian civilisation and Māori traditions place considerable importance on the relationship between people, community and the natural environment. By bringing these values into trade and investment partnerships, the two countries could build commercial links that promote prosperity while protecting social and environmental interests.
The visit to Auckland, undertaken at the invitation of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in 40 years. Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Government House, held comprehensive bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Luxon, interacted with business leaders and members of the Indian community, and viewed a presentation on New Zealand’s sporting innovation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Auckland on 10 July 2026 for a two-day official visit to New Zealand, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in nearly four decades. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon personally received him at the airport, where the two leaders exchanged a warm greeting before the visiting Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome.
External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar met Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi in Muscat and reviewed the expanding range of cooperation between the two countries. Their discussions covered trade, investment, connectivity, maritime affairs, technology, defence, cyber security and artificial intelligence. The ministers also exchanged views on developments in the Gulf and explored ways to support peace and regional stability.
The meeting was co-chaired by Sibi George, Secretary West in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Dmitry Lyubinsky, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia. Officials from relevant departments and agencies of both countries also participated, reflecting the strategic importance both sides attach to counter-terrorism coordination.
India reaffirmed that its engagement with Afghanistan remains focused on practical support for ordinary people. Healthcare, food security, education and capacity building continue to be key pillars of this relationship. These sectors directly support Afghanistan’s recovery and strengthen the long-standing people-to-people connection between the two countries.
The meeting also reviewed the security situation along the India-Myanmar border. Both countries reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability and security in the border areas. They also stressed that sovereign territory should not be used for activities that harm the security interests of the other side.
Commander Oliver Vanek has taken charge as Germany’s first representative at the centre. With his induction, the IFC-IOR now hosts 17 International Liaison Officers from partner countries. The ceremony was attended by Colonel Klaus Willi Merkel, Defence Attaché of Germany to India.
The three Indian antiquities being returned include a sacred Nandi idol from Tamil Nadu, a ceremonial trident associated with Goddess Bhadrakali, and a six-headed Karttikeya or Shanmukha idol. These objects are linked to South Indian temple traditions and carry deep religious, artistic and civilisational value.
