The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed receiving US inputs on a "nexus" involving organized criminals, terrorists, and others, during recent India-US security discussions. This follows a UK-based report that the US thwarted an assassination conspiracy against Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi expressed concern, stating India takes such inputs seriously as they impact national security. The Financial Times additionally reported a US warning to India, suggesting its involvement. The MEA, while not addressing Pannun specifically, asserted ongoing examination of the issues raised in the US inputs. Pannun, a dual American-Canadian citizen, leads the designated terrorist outfit Sikhs for Justice.

Four Indian nationals studying in Singapore were imprisoned between 40 to 65 days for conspiring to steal over SGD 1,700 worth of apparel from a Uniqlo store. The group removed price tags containing security devices then placed items in purchased tote bags to avoid detection. One theft of 64 items occurred on October 12, and a second attempt with 72 items was foiled on October 16 when a security guard intervened. Three other Indians involved fled Singapore. The accused admitted knowing they were committing an offense but claimed the scheme was masterminded by another individual who threatened consequences if they did not comply.

Pew Research Centre's latest report exposes a notable rise in unauthorized immigrants in the US, with Indians forming the third-largest group at 725,000, trailing Mexico and El Salvador. Despite a decline in Mexican figures, El Salvador and India witnessed an uptick. The total unauthorized immigrant population reached 10.5 million in 2021, constituting 3% of the US population. Other nations like Brazil and Canada also experienced growth. Amid this, legal immigration expanded by 29%, with naturalized US citizens increasing by 49%, representing half of all immigrants in 2021. The findings underscore the multifaceted landscape of immigration dynamics in the United States.

During the virtual G20 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hosting the event, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in establishing global regulations for Artificial Intelligence (AI). Expressing concerns over the negative impacts of AI, especially in the context of deepfake videos, Modi underscored the importance of ensuring AI's safety for society. Additionally, he highlighted the G20's inclusive approach, celebrating the entry of the African Union into the group during India's presidency. On the Israel-Hamas conflict, Modi welcomed the truce deal for the release of hostages, asserting G-20's stance against terrorism in any form.

India has recommenced electronic visa services for Canadian nationals after a two-month hiatus, signaling a thaw in diplomatic tensions. The suspension, initiated on September 21, was a response to Canada's accusations linking Indian government agents to the June killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. While India vehemently denies involvement, the resumption of visa services, including tourist visas, suggests a step towards normalizing relations. Talks on a longstanding trade deal remain paused, underscoring the impact of the ongoing diplomatic discord on broader bilateral engagements.

During the UN Security Council open debate under China's presidency, India issued a veiled warning on the dangers of unsustainable financing, cautioning against a "vicious cycle of debt traps." Counsellor Madhu Sudan emphasized the need for transparent and equitable financing, urging vigilance against hidden agendas. The statement echoes India's recent calls to nations in the Indian Ocean region to address development challenges and avoid unviable projects or unsustainable debt. India also advocated for a reformed multilateralism and a UN reflecting 21st-century needs. The remarks underscore tensions around China's alleged "debt trap" diplomacy and advocate for a comprehensive vision of international security.

Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, is set to participate in the Virtual G20 Leaders' Summit hosted by India despite an ongoing diplomatic standoff. Tensions escalated as Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, leading to the withdrawal of diplomats and halted consular services. The G20 summit, starting today at 5:30 pm, gathers global leaders to address key issues. The diplomatic rift adds a layer of complexity to the international dialogue. India emphasizes the need for evidence in response to Trudeau's claims. The summit will review progress since the New Delhi G20 meeting in September.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lead the virtual G20 Leaders' Summit today, focusing on implementing the Delhi Declaration and addressing global challenges, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict. Expected to see strong participation, the summit will have Chinese Premier Li Qiang representing China, while Russian President Vladimir Putin, absent in September, will attend. The Kremlin cited the urgency of Ukraine previously. India's G20 Sherpa anticipates a rare and exceptional meeting, emphasizing development discussions. This event follows an extraordinary BRICS meeting on the Gaza crisis, highlighting the need for international dialogue.

During a BRICS meeting addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict, India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, conveyed India's strong condemnation of civilian casualties and urged immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza. Emphasizing the need for a two-state solution, Jaishankar highlighted India's commitment to socio-economic welfare in Palestine. He noted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic efforts for peace negotiations and stressed the universal obligation to uphold international humanitarian law. India, sending 70 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, expressed ongoing support. Jaishankar applauded South Africa's initiative to convene the BRICS summit, addressing the complex situation and advocating for lasting solutions. [ photo courtesy: ANI/X ]

In a crucial meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong, the focus was on India's strained relations with Canada. Jaishankar expressed India's concern over the space provided to extremism and radicalism in Canada, emphasizing the need for Australia, with its amicable ties to both India and China, to understand India's perspective on the matter. The leaders also delved into discussions on the Quad alliance, covering topics ranging from intelligence sharing on shipping and military activities to trade and investments. Furthermore, India and Australia jointly committed to mapping the Indian Ocean sea floor, a critical step for submarine operations. The meeting underscored the complexities in the geopolitical landscape as nations navigate diplomatic challenges and regional partnerships.