Category Archives: international relations

British Council Invites Applications For Study UK Alumni Awards To Honor Global Leaders

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The British Council, the UK’s international institution for cultural exchanges and educational opportunities, is now accepting applications for the 11th edition of its Study UK Alumni Awards programme.

The goal of the awards is to recognise leaders who have significantly impacted their communities, industries, and nations by using their education from the UK. The Study UK Alumni Awards are divided into four categories: business and innovation, social action, culture and creativity, and science and sustainability. These categories honour outstanding accomplishments and impacts in a variety of sectors.

Candidates who meet the requirements will be able to compete in the Alumni Awards on both national and international platforms. Recipients of the Global Alumni Award will get the opportunity to visit the UK for professional networking, helping them build their professional networks, enhance their careers, and raise their visibility internationally.

In addition, a national celebration honouring the finalists will be held in India. Applications must be submitted by October 21, 2024. While global winners will be recognised through a digital campaign showcasing their accomplishments, the India awards finalists and winners will be announced in March 2025.

Indian students have always favoured the UK as their study-abroad destination. Between July 2023 and June 2024, 147,051 sponsored study visas were issued, of which almost two-fifths (46%) were awarded to Indian students.

Speaking about the Alumni Awards 2025, Rittika Chanda Parruck, Director of Education, British Council India, said:

“The StudyUK Alumni Awards acknowledge and recognise exceptional individuals who have applied the expertise and experiences they gained while studying at UK universities to positively transform their home country, their communities, and the world beyond. These awards not only celebrate their achievements but also show the impact of a UK education locally and globally. I urge all eligible alumni to apply for the awards and share their inspirational stories with the world.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/british-council-invites-applications-for-study-uk-alumni-awards-to-honor-global-leaders

Donald Trump holds talks with Pakistan’s Prime Minister amid warming ties

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President Donald Trump hosted Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for talks at the White House, marking the latest sign of warming relations between the United States and the South Asian nuclear power.

Sharif was among the top officials from eight Arab or Muslim countries who met with Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly this week to discuss strategy on ending the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Ties between the US and Pakistan have improved as Trump’s relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, one of the Republican president’s closest world leaders during his first term, has become strained. This strain comes amid India’s increased purchases of discounted Russian oil following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

India and Pakistan are neighbors and fierce rivals. Trump has dramatically raised tariffs on India for those oil purchases in an effort to put indirect economic pressure on Moscow. Meanwhile, the US and Pakistan reached a trade agreement in July, expected to allow Washington to help develop Pakistan’s largely untapped oil reserves and lower tariffs for Islamabad.

Sharif arrived at the White House shortly before 5 p.m. on Thursday as Trump was signing executive orders and talking with reporters. The meeting between the two leaders was closed to the media, with Pakistan’s delegation leaving the White House at 6:18 p.m.

Sharif has gained favor with Trump since publicly endorsing the American leader for a Nobel Peace Prize for his administration’s efforts this year at reducing tensions between Pakistan and India. India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire in May after US-led talks to end the most serious military confrontation between the nuclear-armed rivals in decades.

Unlike Sharif, Modi has declined to indulge Trump’s attempt to claim credit for brokering the ceasefire. That deal followed weeks of clashes, missile, and drone strikes across their borders. The clashes were triggered by a massacre of tourists that India blames on Pakistan, which denies the charge.

However, Pakistan split with Trump over his decision to carry out US strikes in June on three Iranian nuclear facilities. Pakistan said the attack “constituted a serious violation of international law” as well as undermining the stature of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Recently, Modi was photographed with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping during a security summit in Tianjin, northern China. This led to a social media jab from Trump, who wrote: “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”

Despite this, Trump has taken a warmer approach with Modi recently. Last week, he offered hope that trade issues with India could be resolved. “I am pleased to announce that India, and the United States of America, are continuing negotiations to address the Trade Barriers between our two Nations,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both of our Great Countries!”

Trump hit India with tariffs up to 50 percent last month after imposing an additional 25 percent tariff related to India’s purchases of Russian oil, which helps Moscow fund its war in Ukraine. Trump hosted Modi for White House talks in February.

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*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or data of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/donald-trump-holds-talks-with-pakistans-prime-minister-in-latest-sign-of-warming-relations-23595883

Trump announces 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals. Would this hurt India’s drug makers?

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**Trump’s Tariff War Continues: 100% Tariffs on Branded Pharmaceuticals Starting October 1**

US President Donald Trump has announced a new wave of tariffs, imposing a 100 percent tariff on imports of branded and patented pharmaceutical drugs effective October 1, next Wednesday. However, there is a caveat: such heavy tariffs will not apply if the drug company establishes manufacturing plants in the United States. This move is part of Trump’s ongoing tariff war and is likely to have significant implications for India, whose pharma sector heavily depends on the US market. Notably, the US is India’s largest drugs market.

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### Trump’s Announcement on Pharma and More

On Thursday, September 25, President Trump revealed that brand-name or patented pharmaceutical products will face a 100 percent tariff starting October 1 unless the drug manufacturer is building production facilities in the US. While this move doesn’t come as a total surprise—Trump has been promising to impose tariffs on pharmaceutical imports throughout his term—this is the first time such a significant tariff has been announced on these products.

Trump views tariffs as a way to pressure pharmaceutical companies into ramping up domestic production and strengthening the supply chain for essential medicines. In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump wrote:

*”Starting October 1, 2025, we will be imposing a 100 percent tariff on any branded or patented pharmaceutical product, unless a company is building their pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in America.”*
He added, *”There will, therefore, be no tariff on these pharmaceutical products if construction has started.”*

In addition to pharmaceuticals, Trump also announced new tariffs on other imported goods. These include:

– 50% tariff on kitchen cabinets
– 30% tariff on upholstered furniture
– 25% tariff on heavy trucks

In a separate post, Trump specified that the 25 percent tariff on heavy trucks made outside the US aims to support domestic manufacturers such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks. He emphasized that these tariffs serve multiple purposes, primarily for national security.

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### Possible Impact on India and Beyond

Following the announcement, Asian stock markets saw a decline, especially in the pharmaceutical sector. According to Reuters, pharmaceutical shares across Asia tumbled:

– Japan’s Topix pharmaceutical index dropped 1%
– Hong Kong’s innovative drug index slid 2.8%
– South Korean firm SK Biopharmaceuticals fell 2.7%
– Australian biotech company CSL was down 1.6% after earlier losses exceeding 3%

In India, there is a cautious mood as the country remains one of the largest suppliers of medicines to the US. India exported pharmaceutical products worth $17.7 billion (Rs 77,231 crore) to the US in 2024. Additionally, exports for the first half of this year reached $3.7 billion (Rs 32,505 crore).

India supplies over 45% of generic drugs and 15% of biosimilar drugs used in the US. Major pharmaceutical companies such as Dr. Reddy’s, Aurobindo Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Sun Pharma, and Gland Pharma reportedly generate 30-50% of their total revenues from the American market.

Furthermore, it is reported that Indian drugs saved the US healthcare system $219 billion in 2022 alone, with an estimated $1.3 trillion in savings expected over the next five years due to generics from India.

If a 100% tariff is imposed, it could lead to significant price hikes, inflation, and drug shortages in the US, where four out of every ten prescriptions filled are for these medicines.

However, experts note that Trump’s tariffs target branded and patented drugs only—not generic drugs, which constitute the bulk of India’s pharmaceutical exports. Despite this, uncertainty looms, and pharma executives are closely monitoring the evolving situation.

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### Trump’s Ongoing Tariff Blitz

Tariffs on pharmaceuticals, previously opposed by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), represent a continuation of Trump’s wider tariff campaign against America’s trading partners, including India.

The US has already imposed tariffs of varying rates on Indian goods, ranging from 50% tariffs on products like jewelry to garments. Trump firmly believes that tariffs are necessary to compel companies to invest in domestic manufacturing.

He has dismissed concerns that these tariffs will lead to higher costs for consumers and businesses, insisting instead:

*”We’re protecting American jobs, we’re protecting American factories. It’s very simple. If you want to sell here, you build here.”*

Critics, on the other hand, argue that Trump’s tariff strategy exacerbates inflation and creates obstacles for businesses. Despite this opposition, the president and his administration remain steadfast in their approach.

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*With inputs from agencies.*
https://www.firstpost.com/explainers/trump-tariff-pharmaceuticals-india-drug-makers-explained-13937033.html

Ukraine restores diplomatic relations with Syria, Zelensky says

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**Ukraine Restores Diplomatic Relations with Syria, President Zelensky Announces**

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Syria.

In 2022, Ukraine severed ties with Syria after the ousted Syrian leader, Bashar al-Assad’s government, recognized large areas of Russian-occupied Ukraine as “independent” regions backed by Russia. This recognition led to a significant diplomatic rift between the two countries.

President Zelensky made the announcement during a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome, Italy, on July 9, 2025.

The restoration of diplomatic relations marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy amid ongoing regional tensions. Further details on the implications of this decision are expected in the coming days.
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868489

American Jewish summer camps offer Israeli teens a break from pressures at home

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American Jewish Summer Camps Offer Israeli Teens a Break from Pressures at Home

This past summer, 770 Israeli teens from the Gaza Envelope region participated in Campers2Gether, a Jewish Agency initiative that began in 2024. The program provides these young individuals with a much-needed respite from the ongoing challenges they face due to the conflict.

The Jewish Agency partners with North American camps and Jewish federations to offer this unique opportunity. By attending the camps, Israeli teens gain a safe and supportive environment where they can relax, connect, and recharge away from the stresses of war.

(Photo credit: Jennifer Roman/Jewish Agency for Israel)

By MADELEINE KASHKOOLI/JTA
https://www.jpost.com/judaism/article-868491

Which Are The 157+ Countries That Recognise Palestine As A State? Here’s The Full List

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The State of Palestine is now recognized by 157 of the 193 United Nations member states, amounting to 81% of the international community, along with the observer-state Holy See, according to a report by Al Jazeera. This new wave of recognition at the 80th UN General Assembly session highlights a significant shift in global diplomacy amid Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, which has claimed the lives of more than 65,000 Palestinians and continues to do so.

### New Recognitions in 2025

France, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Andorra, and Belgium formally recognized Palestine at the UN General Assembly 2025. They joined Canada, Australia, and Portugal, as well as the United Kingdom, which confirmed its recognition earlier on Sunday (September 21).

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated,
“In the face of the growing horror in the Middle East, we are acting to keep alive the possibility of peace and of a two-state solution.”

These declarations mark 11 new recognitions this year, including Mexico, and 20 since Israel’s military campaign in Gaza began in October 2023. The decisions by Western powers—long seen as close allies of Israel—reflect its growing isolation as settlement expansion continues in the occupied West Bank and Gaza faces near complete destruction.

Here’s a list of all the 157 countries, including a non-observer state, that have recognized Palestine as a state:
[Insert list here]

### Israel’s Reaction to a Majority Recognition

Recognition does not end the war or occupation but strengthens Palestine’s global standing. It enables Palestinians to open embassies with full diplomatic status, pursue trade agreements, gain support at international forums, and approach the International Criminal Court.

Israel dismissed the summit on Palestinian statehood as a “circus.” Israeli UN ambassador Danny Danon said such moves “reward terrorism,” while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the recognition of a Palestinian state as a “prize” for Hamas, insisting it “will not happen.”
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/which-are-the-157-countries-that-recognise-palestine-as-a-state-heres-the-full-list

Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

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When asked by reporters if he thought NATO should take action against Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, Donald Trump responded affirmatively. “Yes, I do,” Trump said on Tuesday, advocating that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace.

The US President made these comments while speaking to reporters after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

When specifically asked about NATO shoot-downs during his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump reiterated, “Yes, I do.”

In contrast, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte appeared to adopt a more cautious stance, according to a report by US broadcaster CNN. Rutte emphasized that any decision to shoot down aircraft should depend on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the planes.

“This also includes questions we have to answer like intent, armaments, and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians, or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation and the immediate threat the plane poses,” Rutte told CNN following a meeting of NATO states.

The first direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war occurred recently with alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia, and other NATO nations. The CNN report highlighted that these incursions tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russian aggression.

Russian jets allegedly violated Estonian airspace, which prompted Tallinn to call for a meeting among NATO members.

Meanwhile, Trump suggested that Ukraine could achieve more than just reclaiming its lost territory since the war began in February 2022.

“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,” Trump said in a Truth Social post after his meeting with Zelenskyy at the United Nations.

Trump added that Kyiv might even be able to go further than just recovering the country’s original borders, although he did not elaborate on what he meant by that.
https://www.news18.com/world/donald-trump-tells-nato-to-shoot-down-russian-jets-crossing-airspace-in-fresh-jibe-at-putin-ws-kl-9592594.html

Indian Diaspora Must Speak On Trump’s Policy Changes, Visiting US Congressmen Tell Parliament Panel

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A Visiting US Democratic Delegation Voices Concerns Over President Trump’s Policies During Meeting with Indian MPs

A delegation of five US Democratic lawmakers recently engaged with Indian Members of Parliament (MPs) from across party lines in the Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Dr. Shashi Tharoor. The meeting provided an opportunity for frank discussions on several pressing issues pertaining to US-India relations.

During the interaction, the Democratic delegation expressed strong concerns regarding policy changes implemented by US President Donald Trump. Sources reveal that questions were raised by Indian MPs about key issues such as modifications to the H-1B visa program, the 50% tariff imposed on Indian goods, and the persistent involvement of President Trump in matters affecting bilateral ties.

In response, the visiting Democrats urged Indian MPs to motivate the Indian diaspora in the United States to speak out against these policy shifts. They emphasized the importance of advocacy within the Indian-American community to influence US policy decisions favorably.

Following the meeting, committee chairman Dr. Shashi Tharoor addressed the media, stating, “I do want to stress that one of the points we raised is why the Indian-American diaspora has been so silent about all this. One of the Congressmen said not one phone call has come to her office from any Indian-American voter asking her to support a change of policy. This is something that is surprising.”

He further added, “We all need to reach out to the Indian-American population, saying if you care about your relationship with the motherland, then you also have to fight for it and speak for it, and make more of an effort to press your political representative to stand up for India.”

Dr. Tharoor underscored that the visiting US lawmakers are well-disposed towards India and are friends of the country, making their concerns and suggestions particularly noteworthy.

Besides visa and tariff-related issues, the committee also discussed the US sanctions waiver for Iran’s Chabahar Port—an important development project led by India.

The H-1B visa concerns were especially highlighted by opposition leaders from the Samajwadi Party, including Ballia MP Sanatan Pandey and Firozabad MP Akshay Yadav, both of whom noted how these policies affect numerous Indians.

Sanatan Pandey shared, “Sanatan Pandey and I met with the visiting delegation led by Amerish Bera. We told them that we are the third-largest party in India and our leader, along with Akshay Yadav from the Samajwadi Party, raised this matter.”

The delegation also included BJP MPs such as Sudhanshu Trivedi, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Aparajita Sarangi, and Bansuri Swaraj, among others.

The first half of the meeting featured a detailed briefing on India-Sri Lanka relations, with India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri providing insights to the committee members.

This interactive session marks an important step in fostering dialogue and cooperation between US lawmakers and Indian parliamentarians concerning bilateral matters, diaspora engagement, and regional strategic interests.
https://www.news18.com/world/indian-diaspora-must-speak-on-trumps-policy-changes-visiting-us-congressmen-tell-parliament-panel-9592589.html

Trump says Ukraine can win back all territory lost to Russia during war

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Trump Says Ukraine Can Win Back All Territory Lost to Russia During War

US President Donald Trump, who met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the United Nations earlier on Tuesday, has expressed his belief that Ukraine can regain all the territory lost to Russia during the ongoing conflict.

Previously, Trump had suggested that both Kyiv and Moscow might need to cede land in order to bring an end to the war. However, his recent comments indicate a more optimistic view regarding Ukraine’s chances of reclaiming its territories.

The two leaders met during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where discussions on the war and its ramifications were a central focus.

Photo credit: REUTERS/Al Drago

https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868434