NAMASKAR! A warm welcome to 'World News: an Indian perspective on AKASHVANI. This is SAIRA MUJTABA bringing glimpses of the major developments of the day from across the globe. Over the next half an hour, we shall bring to you the latest from the world of politics, economy, sports, entertainment and more.

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THE HEADLINES:

⦁ Prime Minister Narendra Modi to embark on a three nation tour of Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia on Friday.

⦁ US President Joe Biden holds talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida; Both leaders agree to address regional security challenges, including coercive behavior by China, North Korea.

⦁ US court approves extradition of 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India.

⦁ Indian Naval ships carrying relief material reach Cyclone Mocha-hit Myanmar under Operation Karuna.

⦁ Montana to become first US state to ban Chinese app TikTok on personal devices.

⦁ Amazon Web Services to invest over one lakh crore rupees in India by 2030; To create over one Lakh 30 thousand jobs.

⦁ UK telecom company BT Group to cut up to 55,000 jobs by 2030 due to rise in uses of fibre and Artificial Intelligence.

⦁ Tennis legend Rafael Nadal to miss French Open due to hip injury, expects 2024 to be last year of his career.

⦁ In Women's Hockey, India lose to Australia by 2-4 at Mate Stadium in Adelaide.

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PM JAPAN VISIT

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi will embark on a three nation tour of Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia Friday morning. On the first leg of his tour, Mr Modi will attend G7 Summit in Japan at the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Briefing media in New Delhi this afternoon, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said the G7 Summit has chosen several key priorities for the current Presidency. The broad terms of the G7 Summit preferences include nuclear disarmament, economic resilience and security, regional issues, climate and energy, food and health and development. There are other priorities also such as digitisation and science and technology which will be highlighted during several sessions at the Summit.

Foreign Secretary said India's participation at the Summit in Hiroshima would be structured around three formal sessions. Two sessions would be held on 20th of May and the third one will be held on the 21st. The first session relates to food, health, development, and gender equality. The second session is on climate, energy and environment. The third session is titled "Towards peaceful, stable and prosperous world". On the sidelines of the G7 Summit, Prime Minister Modi will hold bilateral disucssions with several leaders of the G7.

Japan has also invited Autralia, Brazil, Comorros, Cook Islands, Indonesia, South Korea, and Vietnam and some of the international organisations including the UN. Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings with his Japanese counterpart and unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Hiroshima. Foreign Secretary said that a QUAD leaders meeting is being planned in Hiroshima with leaders of all QUAD nations.

Mr Kwatra said India's regular participation at the G7 Summits clearly points to increasing recognition that India should be a part of any serious effort to resolve global challenges, including those of peace, security, development and environment preservation.

On the second leg of his visit, Prime Minister will reach Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea on the evening of 21st May. He will jointly host the third Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation with his Papua New Guinea counterpart James Marape the following day. The FIPIC involves India and fourteen Pacific Island Countries. This will be the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea.

Prime Minister Modi will have bilateral engagements in Papua New Guinea, including meetings with Governor-General Bob Dadae and Prime Minister James Marape. He will also hold bilateral engagement with Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins. On the same day, Mr Modi will travel to Sydney in Australia on 22nd May. He will hold bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese on 24th May. Prime Minister is also expected to call on the Governor Genral David Hurley. Mr Modi will also interact with Australian CEOs and business leaders, and address the Indian diaspora at a community event in Sydney on 23rd May. Australian Prime Minister is also expected to join Mr Modi at this event.

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HOTSPOT

In today's hotspot section, we bring you a News Commentary on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan, Papua New Guinea, Australia.

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US-JAPAN

United States President Joe Biden and Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida held bilateral talks in Hiroshima on Thursday ahead of the G7 summit. Both the leaders agreed to advance cooperation on a range of security, economic, and regional issues besides addressing challenges emerging due to North Korea and China, said a statement issued by the White House.  According to the statement, Biden underscored that the US-Japan Alliance is the cornerstone of regional peace and prosperity.  Both leaders discussed ways to further strengthen defence cooperation, building on Japan’s revised strategy documents and increased defence investments.

They also addressed efforts to bolster economic cooperation, including through negotiations on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), the promotion of clean and secure energy, and the establishment of diverse and resilient critical minerals supply chains.  The leaders highlighted their deepening cooperation on emerging technology as well as in areas like quantum computing and semiconductors. Both leaders affirmed their resolve to work closely together to address regional security challenges, including the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) nuclear and ballistic missile programs and coercive behaviour by the People’s Republic of China that runs counter to international law. The two leaders underscored their opposition to any attempts to change the status quo by force and reiterated their resolve to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They also reaffirmed their support for ASEAN centrality, and emphasized the importance of increasing multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly with the Republic of Korea (ROK), the Quad nations including Australia and India, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Biden also said he looked forward to a productive G7 Summit under Japan’s leadership.

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US COURT-RANA

A US court has approved the extradition of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused, Pakistani-origin Canadian Tahawwur Rana to India. California District Court Judge Jacqueline Chooljian approved the the Indian government’s request for Rana’s extradition. Rana was arrested in the United States on an extradition request by India for his role in Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 in which more than 160 people, including six Americans were killed.

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PM-NEW PARLIAMENT

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the newly constructed Parliament building to the Nation on 28 May, 2023. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met Prime Minister Narendra Modi today and invited him to inaugurate the New Parliament Building. Construction of the New Parliament Building is complete now and the new building symbolises the spirit of self -reliant India.

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JAISHANKAR OPERATION KARUNA

India has extended a hand of friendship to the people of Myanmar affected by Cyclone Mocha. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said three Indian Navy ships carrying relief material reached Yangon on Thursday under Operation Karuna. A fourth ship will be reaching on Friday. The ships are carrying emergency food items, tents, essential medicines, water pumps, portable generators, clothes, sanitary and hygiene items. Dr Jaishankar said India continues to be the first responder in the region.

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MEGHALAYA-B'DESH TRADE

India has expressed interest in deepening trade ties and expanding connectivity with Bangladesh. Conrad Sangma, Chief Minister of India's northeastern state Meghalaya highlighted the possibility of import of garments, plastic products, electronic products, processed food and frozen food from Bangladesh. He made the comments when High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India Mustafizur Rahman called on him at his office in Meghalaya on Wednesday, reports the official news agency BSS.

Chief Minister Sangma also laid emphasis on strengthening mutual partnership in the global value chain and diversification of products. He also sought Bangladesh’s cooperation in expanding tourism in Meghalaya.

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PAKISTAN-KHAN

In Pakistan, former Prime Minister and Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan's house in Zaman Park has been surrounded by police once again. The police kept up their siege around the house after a 24-hour deadline set by the Punjab government for Khan to hand over suspects allegedly sheltered inside expired at 2 pm on Thursday. The police claim that 30-40 people involved in violent protests after Khan's May 9 arrest are allegedly hiding in Khan's house. The police also claimed to have arrested at least eight suspects on Thursday after they left Khan’s house and tried to escape via a nearby canal.

Last week, Khan’s supporters attacked public property and military installations after he was dragged out of a courtroom and arrested in a graft case. At least 10 people were killed in the clashes. The violence stopped only when Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered Khan’s release. Following the police barricading, Imran Khan said in a tweet that he may be arrested once again. Punjab provincial government spokesman Amir Mir said that police were ready to use firearms if attacked. He said that at least 3,400 suspects linked to the clashes have been arrested and that more raids are planned.

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NEPAL-MoUs

The Embassy of India, Kathmandu and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, Government of Nepal signed Memorandums of Understanding for undertaking two High Impact Community Development Projects in Nepal under the grant assistance of Government of India - one each in health care and education sectors, at a total estimated cost of 80.33 million Nepali rupees. The construction of these two projects aims at providing better health care and education facilities for the local community and improving the quality of life for people in Nepal. The construction of Malagiri Shanti Yogashram, Ramechhap District and Kedar Jyotipunja Multiple Campus, Doti District of Nepal shall be implemented through Ramechhap Municipality and Badikedar Rural Municipality, respectively.

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NEPAL-EXPO 2023

The seventh Nepal Chamber Expo 2023 kick-started on Thursday in local Bhrikutimandap in Kathmandu and will continue till May 22.  The event is organised by the Nepal Chamber of Commerce and showcases stalls of both domestic and international products. Exhibitors from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan had their products at the Expo. This Expo majorly focuses on trade dialogues, the exchange of export-import information and the marketing of Nepali goods.  Ajrakh saree, fabrics with kalamkari prints, mulberry and tussar sarees from India, along with toys, kitchen equipment and many more Made in India products were on sale.  The Nepal Chamber of Commerce expects that this expo will encourage the domestic business community to explore potential competitive abilities in collaboration with the foreign trade community. The Expo featured Nepali handicraft products, tea, cottage and food products, herbs, automobilists, electronics, home decor, bamboo goods, hemp products, fashion wear and leather products.

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DUBAI-CABSAT 2023

CABSAT 2023, the premier exhibition for content creation, production, distribution, digital media, satellite communication, and space technology, which commenced on Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attracted industry leaders with significant Indian presence. The 29th edition of CABSAT featured six Indian companies as exhibitors, including TATA Elxsi, showcasing their state-of-the-art OTT engineering and service delivery products. The event provided a platform for professionals from around the world to network, collaborate, and explore opportunities for advancement in the broadcast, satellite, content creation, production, distribution, digital media, and entertainment industries.

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IRAN-TALIBAN

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has warned Taliban rulers in Afghanistan against violating the water rights of its people over the shared Helmand river, reported the state-run IRNA news agency. Speaking after inaugurating a market in a Pakistan border town, President Raisi said Iran is determined to defend its water rights. He warned the Taliban to take his words seriously. The Helmand River flows from Afghanistan into Iran. President Raisi also urged the Taliban to allow Iranian hydrologists to check the water levels of the river in Afghanistan.

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VIETNAM-CHINA

Vietnam on Thursday criticised recent activities by a Chinese research ship and the Philippine coast guard in the South China Sea. Vietnam has accused China and Philippines of violating its sovereign rights. Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said that Chinese vessels were violating the sovereign rights and jurisdictions of Vietnam and added that it is taking appropriate measures to defend its rights.

The contested parts of the South China Sea have been witnessing increased tensions as multiple nations stake their claims on the waters. The South China Sea is one of the world's most important trade routes and facilitates over 3 trillion dollars of annual ship-borne commerce. Recently, Chinese and Vietnamese vessels came face to face in the South China Sea when a Chinese research ship was moving within Hanoi's Exclusive Economic Zone. China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its territory.

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ITALY FLOOD

In Italy, more than 20 rivers have breached their banks submerging many cities and leaving 10 people dead. So far, over 13 thousand people have been forced to evacuate their homes following record-breaking torrential rains. According to reports, almost every river was flooded between the northeast coast at Rimini and the city of Bologna. Around 280 landslides took place leading to more overnight evacuations in Emilia-Romagna and Ravenna. Regional president of the Emilia-Romagna region Stefano Bonaccini said the damage costs ran into billions of euros.

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US-TIKTOK

Chinese-owned social media app TikTok is facing complete ban in the United States' Montana. The app has already been banned on US government-issued devices and many American colleges. Montana Governor Greg Gianforte on Wednesday signed legislation to ban Chinese-owned TikTok from operating in the state. The ban aims to protect residents from alleged intelligence gathering by China. With this, Montana has become the first US state to ban the short video app. Montana said TikTok could face fines for each violation and additional fines of 10 thousand dollars per day if it violates the ban. The ban is to take effect on January 1, 2024.

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AMAZON INVESTMENT

Amazon Web Services, AWS will invest around one lakh five thousand crore rupees by 2030 on cloud related infrastructure in India. The company is making this investment to meet the growing demand of customers in cloud services. Amazon's Cloud Computing Unit said this in a statement released on Thursday. With this, Amazon's  total investment in India by 2030 is estimated to reach over one lakh 36 thousand  crore rupees.

The company said, the investment in data center infrastructure is expected to create an average of over one lakh 31 thousand full-time jobs annually in the Indian business. According to the statement, the jobs that will be created by this investment include sectors like construction, engineering, telecommunications and others.

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BT LAYOFF

Britain's biggest broadband and mobile provider BT Group will be laying off around 55 thousand staff including contractors by 2030. This constitutes over 40 percent of BT Group's workforce. The layoff is mainly due to the completion of the fibre roll-out and the adoption of new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence by the company. The telecom firm has been working to build a national fibre network and roll out high-speed 5G mobile services. The company said that the adoption of new technologies will help it function with the help of a much smaller workforce and significantly reduced cost base by the end of the 2030s. BT group's total number of workers would reduce from one lakh 30 thousand to between 75 thousand and 90 thousand by 2030.

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WORLD NEWS CAPSULE

Benchmark domestic indices ended lower for the third straight session in a row led by losses in stocks of sectors such as Realty, Services and Power. The BSE Sensex closed below 61,500 points while the NSE Nifty settled below 18,150 level. Both indices declined even as global share markets were positive. A report from the business desk-  

The Sensex fell 130 points to finish at 61,432. The Nifty at the National Stock Exchange also slipped 52 points to end at 18,130.

However, Asian Stocks closed with gains. Japan's Nikkei-225 climbed 1.6 percent. Both South Korea's Kospi and Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.8 percent each. China's Shanghai Composite index gained 0.4 percent and Singapore's Straits Times index added 0.3 percent. The positive sentiment was also reflected in European Markets. Oil prices eased as traders warily watched for signs of progress on talks to raise the U.S. debt ceiling. Prices had surged in the previous session on optimism over U.S. fuel demand. In intra-day trade, Brent crude was trading at 72 dollars and 66 cents a barrel. Back Home, Gold prices, at Multi Commodity Exchange for June contracts, were trading at around 59,890 rupees per 10 gram. On the other hand, silver was trading at 72,100 rupees per kilogram for July Contracts when reports last came in. And... In the forex market, the rupee closed at 82 rupees and 59 paise against the US dollar. ARJUN CHOUDHARY for World News, AKASHVANI.

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TENNIS-NADAL

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal on Thursday pulled out of the French Open because of a hip injury that has sidelined him from the game since January. Nadal also said that he expects 2024 to be the final season of his career. Nadal, who is the owner of a record 14 championships at the clay-court Grand Slam tournament, will miss it for the first time. He made his debut in the tournament in 2005. Speaking to reporters,Nadal said that he does not want to set a date for his return to the tennis tour, but expects it to take months but cleared his intention to retire next year. The French Open begins at Roland Garros in Paris on May 28.

S/B-RAFAEL NADAL

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HOCKEY-RESULT

In Women's Hockey, Australia defeated India 4-2 at Mate Stadium in Adelaide, Australia on Thursday. This is the first game of the five match series. The next match is scheduled on 20th of this month (Saturday). The tour is part of the Indian team's preparations for the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games 2023, which will take place in September-October this year. The team led by ace goalkeeper Savita and Vice Captained by Deep Grace Ekka will play in the first three games of the series followed by two matches against Australia A. The Australian Women's Hockey Team is currently ranked third in the world, while the Indian team is ranked eighth.

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FPR

Now let us take a look at the major developments around the world, as reported in the Foreign Press.

⦁ The Wall Street Journal reports, Train Derails in Russia-Controlled Crimea, With Authorities Blaming ‘Outsiders’.

⦁ The Guardian writes, UK crime agency to pursue up to 100 lawyers accused of helping traffickers.

⦁ Washington Post reports, As AI changes jobs, Italy is trying to help workers retrain.

⦁ Le Monde writes, China envoy in Kyiv says 'no panacea' to end Ukraine war.

⦁ The Globe and Mail writes, Fight against misinformation tests the limits of defamation law in U.S.

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REPEAT HEADLINES

⦁ Prime Minister Narendra Modi to embark on a three nation tour of Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia on Friday.

⦁ US President Joe Biden holds talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida; Both leaders agree to address regional security challenges, including coercive behavior by China, North Korea.

⦁ US court approves extradition of 26/11 Mumbai attack accused Tahawwur Rana to India.

⦁ Indian Naval ships carrying relief material reach Cyclone Mocha-hit Myanmar under Operation Karuna.

⦁ Montana to become first US state to ban Chinese app TikTok on personal devices.

⦁ Amazon Web Services to invest over one lakh crore rupees in India by 2030; To create over one Lakh 30 thousand jobs.

⦁ UK telecom company BT Group to cut up to 55,000 jobs by 2030 due to rise in uses of fibre and Artificial Intelligence.

⦁ Tennis legend Rafael Nadal to miss French Open due to hip injury, expects 2024 to be last year of his career.

⦁ In Women's Hockey, India lose to Australia by 2-4 at Mate Stadium in Adelaide.

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And now, before we end, let us listen to Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajanVaishnav Jan, by artists from SWEDEN.

And With That, We End This Bulletin. We'Ll Be Back At The Same Tomorrow With The Next Edition Of World News.

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