Andy Burnham, the new UK Prime Minister, faces the challenge of resetting UK-EU relations amidst domestic priorities and Brexit's economic impact. While initially focused on internal affairs, he may pursue closer European engagement, particularly on security and economic cooperation, potentially shifting Labour's red lines despite Eurosceptic opposition.
Italy and Japan are strengthening diplomatic ties, focusing on supply chains and technology cooperation. The leaders aim to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals and boost semiconductor manufacturing through joint ventures.
India and France have elevated their defense partnership to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, focusing on co-design and co-production of advanced defense platforms. A key area of discussion is a potential collaboration on a sixth-generation fighter jet, with India seen as a natural partner following France's split with Germany on a similar project.
Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi met with UK counterpart Keir Starmer in London, praising deepening defence cooperation and calling ties a "near-alliance." Discussions focused on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint fighter jet project with Italy, which faces delays and uncertainty following the UK Defence Secretary's resignation and postponed financial contributions.
India and Australia are strengthening defense cooperation, focusing on maritime security, expanded military exercises, and industry collaboration. Key initiatives include a new MOU on defense articles and services, joint maritime surveillance, and training exchanges.
Armenia is bolstering its defense cooperation with India, seeking advanced weapon systems and training to counter threats from Azerbaijan, which is supported by Pakistan and Turkey. Recent high-level visits and significant arms deals, including Akash missiles and Pinaka rockets, highlight this growing partnership.
India and Oman bolstered defense ties with specialized military training for 110 Omani officers. The initiative focused on operational coordination and joint logistics, enhancing interoperability amid regional security challenges. This follows recent discussions on the West Asia crisis between the foreign ministers and India's condemnation of an attack on an Indian-flagged ship off Oman's coast.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh is on a four-day visit to Vietnam and South Korea to strengthen defence ties, maritime cooperation, and industrial partnerships, focusing on peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi met Myanmar Navy's Central Naval Command commander Rear Admiral Aung Aung Naing and Naval Training Command chief Rear Admiral Khun Aung Kyaw in Yangon to discuss strengthening navy-to-navy cooperation and bolstering defence partnership. During the visit, Admiral Tripathi handed over equipment including a containerised small arms simulator and rigid inflatable boat for maritime security in the Bay of Bengal region, aligned with India's Mahasagar policy.
India and Germany signed a Defence Industrial Cooperation Road Map in Berlin, aiming to deepen collaboration in development, production, and technology. A major US$8 billion submarine cooperation agreement is also anticipated soon.
Zelenskyy urges Trump, Xi, and Modi to directly tell Putin to end the war, questioning mediation effectiveness. He announces defence cooperation deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE on drones.
