UK PM Rishi Sunak arrived in New Delhi for the G20 summit, hoping to advance trade talks in his meeting with Modi. Downing Street insisted immigration policies won't change for a deal but added intra-company transfers could be discussed, aligning with Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami's Times Radio remarks around simplifying processes over more visas. Sunak called it a "special" trip where he would be welcomed as "India's son-in-law", his first since becoming PM. As he lays the groundwork for sensitive negotiations, the visa issue remains key. [Photo: Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murthy arrives in New Delhi]

India is in talks with the US, Saudi Arabia and other countries about a potential joint infrastructure deal involving railways and ports in the Middle East. According to reports, the deal aims to counter China's growing influence in the region and could be announced during the G20 summit hosted by India. The project was proposed at I2U2 meetings over the past year, with India contributing expertise in large infrastructure projects. It would connect Arab nations through a railway network extending to India via Gulf ports. The Biden administration is keen to finalize the deal before 2024 elections. However, the countries involved have not yet confirmed the talks. (Image courtesy: ANI File Pic)

India is seeking consensus at the G20 summit in Delhi as the shadow of the Ukraine war looms large. The leaders' ability to release a joint declaration signaling agreement on global issues will be key after 200 preparatory meetings. But the group is divided on Ukraine, with positions hardened since last year's hurried declaration. Without Putin and Xi present, breakthroughs on debt relief and climate financing sought by India and the Global South also look uncertain, according to Tanvi Madan of the Brookings Institution. Lack of a declaration would be a setback for India's diplomatic efforts, but its balancing role could still yield progress on some fronts.

Ahead of the G20 summit hosted by India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosting a private dinner for U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday evening. Biden departed for New Delhi, stating the G20 is focused on progress for developing nations. The two leaders are expected to discuss nuclear energy, defense, visas, consulates, and the Russia-Ukraine war during their bilateral meeting following the dinner. U.S. national security advisor Jake Sullivan said the White House anticipates meaningful progress on topics like GE jet engines and civil nuclear technology during the talks between Biden and Modi. (Image courtesy: ANI)

In an interview with The Times, Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami argues that Prime Minister Modi is advocating for constructive cooperation on global challenges, not punitive restrictions. He contends India's low per capita emissions warrant different climate obligations than developed nations. Doraiswami denies India is seeking more UK visas under a trade deal, just easier transfers for cross-investing companies. He maintains India still has major development needs. Overall, Doraiswami calls for balancing equity with global cooperation. Listen to the interview, or read the full transcript on Shorts91 Blog. Click on the link below. 

Ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, PM Modi penned a blog laying out India's vision as the host nation. Underscoring human-centered progress, he called for bringing developing nations' aspirations into the mainstream. PM wrote about the importance of shared prosperity and India's role in fostering global cooperation during its presidency. The blog sets the stage for the summit of 20 wealthiest countries to address pressing international issues. The PM emphasized uplifting marginalized voices, particularly the Global South and Africa. His clarion call signals India's commitment to an inclusive global order. 

British PM Rishi Sunak has assured India that the UK government takes threats from pro-Khalistani extremism seriously and is working closely with Indian authorities to tackle it. In an exclusive interview to PTI, Sunak stated that no form of extremism is acceptable in the UK. His comments come ahead of his India visit for the G20 summit. This follows concerns in New Delhi over activities of Khalistani elements after the attack on the Indian High Commission in London. Sunak said UK police are empowered to deal with violent acts, and referred to increased cooperation such as the recent meeting between UK and Indian ministers focused on extremism. (Image courtesy: Rishi Sunak on X)

China has supported India as the host of the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi, despite Chinese President Xi Jinping's decision not to attend. Premier Li Qiang will represent China at the summit, scheduled for September 9 and 10. Addressing concerns about the choice, China's foreign ministry emphasized on overall stability of China-India relations, with ongoing dialogue and communication at multiple levels. This statement comes against the backdrop of recent tensions, including China's issuance of a new map that included Indian territories. India dismissed the new map with strong words from the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized his deep bonds with India and 'proud Hindu' heritage in an exclusive interview with PTI. Sunak, UK's first Indian-origin and Hindu PM, cited his Indian wife and pride in his Indian roots. On India relations, he discussed meeting PM Modi to address global challenges and realize the India-UK FTA's potential for job creation. Sunak expressed optimism for a mutually beneficial trade deal. He also reaffirmed Ukraine's right to sovereignty amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Earlier, Sunak took oath on the Bhagavad Gita and performed Hindu rituals publicly. By underscoring his personal faith and cultural identity, Sunak continues affirming his Indian heritage as PM.

The world's tallest Nataraja statue, standing at 28 feet and weighing 20 tonnes, has been erected at Bharat Mandapam, the venue for the upcoming G20 summit in Delhi. Sculptor Radhakrishnan Sthapathy and his team in Tamil Nadu's Swamimalai completed this monumental work in an astonishing seven months, using the traditional casting method with Ashtadhatu (8 metals). The statue's transportation to the capital took just four days, with the creation of a dedicated green corridor for its safe and efficient journey. This awe-inspiring artwork adds a majestic touch to the G20 summit's setting, celebrating India's rich cultural heritage.