Diplomacy

News articles and essays on the Indian diplomacy at work around the world.

India, New Zealand Set to Sign Free Trade Agreement on April 27

The agreement is being seen as a significant breakthrough because it revives a trade process that first began in 2010 but lost momentum and stalled in 2015. Negotiations were relaunched in March 2025 during New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to India, and the deal was pushed through five formal rounds of talks in less than a year

Defense Minister to Undertake 3-Day Visit to Germany

The visit will provide an opportunity to review the ongoing defence cooperation initiatives and identify new avenues for collaboration between the defence industries of both countries. Shri Rajnath Singh is also expected to interact with key representatives of the German defence industry, with a view to promoting joint development and co-production under the Make-in-India initiative.

India-Russia Logistics Support Pact Now in Force, Allows Limited Reciprocal Military Deployments

The agreement, signed in Moscow on February 18, 2025 and ratified by Russia in December 2025, lays down the procedures for the movement and support of military personnel, warships and military aircraft in each other’s territory. Under its standard limits, either side may have up to five military ships, ten military aircraft and 3,000 military personnel present simultaneously in the other country’s territory or airspace, unless both governments decide otherwise.

Ukraine Security Chief Meets NSA Ajit Doval as India Reiterates Call for Dialogue

The engagement is notable because it keeps India-Ukraine strategic communication active at a senior level even as New Delhi continues to balance its ties with both Kyiv and Moscow. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Doval reiterated India’s “principled position” and its focus on a peaceful resolution, signalling continuity rather than any abrupt policy shift.

India, China Hold First SCO Bilateral Consultations in New Delhi

During the discussions, the two sides exchanged views on implementing decisions taken by SCO leaders and on the future direction of the organisation. The MEA said both countries agreed to continue and consolidate mutual cooperation and consultations on SCO-related issues, signalling an effort to keep institutional dialogue active even as the broader relationship remains carefully managed.

India, Russia Hold Round Table to Deepen Steel Sector Cooperation

The Russian delegation, which included representatives from industry and allied sectors, joined Indian counterparts for discussions on areas of mutual interest across the steel value chain. According to the government, the interaction served as a platform for constructive engagement and a broader review of ongoing cooperation between the two countries in steel and related industries.