The Canadian Parliament observed a moment of silence in memory of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist killed a year ago. This action has sparked controversy, with India accusing Canada of harboring terrorists and tensions rising between the two nations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has embarked on his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, meeting with Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. This visit is expected to reshape Russia-North Korea relations amid international isolation for both countries. Experts predict the trip will focus on strengthening defense cooperation, potentially leading to a “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty.”
Britain’s approval of arms export licenses to Israel has significantly decreased since the start of the Gaza war, dropping to a 13-year low. While other countries like the US and Germany have increased arms sales to Israel, the UK’s approval for the period between October and December 2023 fell to a mere $1.09 million, a sharp decline from the £20 million approved in the same period in 2022. The UK government continues to issue licenses for certain military items, including components for aircraft and small arms ammunition for training, but the majority of recent approvals have been for non-lethal items such as body armor and military helmets. The decrease in arms sales comes amid criticism from politicians and human rights groups regarding the lack of transparency and public information surrounding these sales. Several other countries, including Italy, Canada, and the Netherlands, have imposed restrictions on arms exports to Israel due to concerns about how the weapons might be used.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in North Korea for his first official visit to the East Asian nation in 24 years. This marks a significant diplomatic development and has sparked international attention.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will embark on a state visit to North Korea on June 18-19, aiming to strengthen the burgeoning partnership between Moscow and the reclusive nuclear-armed state. The visit comes after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un extended an invitation to Putin during a visit to Russia’s Far East in September 2023. Putin’s trip to Pyongyang marks his first since July 2020, signaling a deepening relationship between the two nations.
Despite Russia’s absence, nearly 90 countries and organizations, including France, Germany, and Switzerland, will attend the Ukraine peace summit this weekend. The summit aims to chart a path toward a lasting peace, address nuclear security, and coordinate humanitarian aid.
Malaysia has announced an expansion of its visa-free policy, offering travelers from 134 countries, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), visa-free entry to enhance global connectivity and cultural exchange.
Starting December 1st, 2023, citizens from India and China, along with passport holders from ASEAN member nations, will be able to visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days. Additionally, individuals holding Macao Special Administrative Region Travel Permits can enjoy a 14-day visa-free stay, irrespective of their nationality.
GCC countries including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and UAE are eligible for a 90-day visa-free stay for tourism or business purposes.
Holders of passports issued by the jurisdictions listed below enjoy the privilege of visa-free entry into Malaysia for a period of 90 days:
– Schengen Agreement countries (including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Portugal, Czech Republic, and Poland)
– United States
– United Kingdom
– ASEAN member states (except Myanmar)
– Diverse regions such as North and South America, Europe, Africa, and multiple island nations
This policy aims to facilitate easier travel, enhance cultural exchange, and attract tourists and business travelers from around the world.
From civil disobedience to military triumphs and legal milestones, June 7 has witnessed a cascade of significant events that have shaped the course of history. This day marked the birth of civil rights movements, challenged social norms, and altered geopolitical landscapes.
Caretaker Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a congratulatory call from Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, solidifying their commitment to strengthen bilateral ties. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe accepted Modi’s invitation to attend his swearing-in ceremony. Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) has been restricted from trading in the futures and options (F&O) segment due to exceeding market-wide position limits. Vivo is launching its first foldable smartphone in India today, the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro. A fire broke out on the 17th floor of an apartment building in Noida Sector 119 due to a short circuit, but no casualties were reported. Oman won the toss and elected to field against Australia in a crucial Group B clash of the T20 World Cup. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and other NDA allies have expressed confidence in Modi’s leadership for a third term as Prime Minister.
Amidst the complex geopolitical landscape, a group of private individuals, including Mickey Bergman and Bill Richardson, have emerged as skilled negotiators, facilitating the release of American prisoners held hostage abroad. Despite lacking official government authority, their understanding of international relations and ability to tap into the motivations of foreign leaders have proven effective in securing the freedom of innocent Americans. Their success highlights the evolving nature of diplomacy and the potential for non-governmental actors to make a significant impact in resolving international crises.
