This makes PhonePe the first Indian company to surpass the likes of YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp to become the top-rated app…reports Asian Lite News
PhonePe on Tuesday announced that it has hit 6.4 million ratings on the Apple app store in India with an average rating of 4.7 stars.
This makes PhonePe the first Indian company to surpass the likes of YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp to become the top-rated app in volume of ratings on the iOS app store in the country. This phenomenal achievement comes on the back of superior user interface and experience (UX and UI), the highest transaction success rates, speed of transactions, and a strong preference for the PhonePe platform among millions of its users.
”We are thrilled to have crossed this exceptional rating on the App Store and are grateful that so many of our users love the PhonePe iOS App and continue to repose their trust in our services. We pride ourselves on being a tech-first platform and if there is one thing about PhonePe that resonates with all our 575+ million users, it is the simplicity and reliability of the app,” said Rahul Chari, Co-founder & CTO, PhonePe.
“We also continuously strive to ensure that our iOS and Android apps maintain feature parity, providing a seamless experience across both platforms. As part of this endeavour, we frequently upgrade to the latest technology stacks such as SwiftUI on iOS, ensuring our users benefit from the most latest technology available. This milestone also reflects our constant focus on innovation at scale and is made possible by the amazing talent at PhonePe,” he added.
PhonePe was the first non-banking UPI app to be launched in August 2016. In a short period, the company has established itself as the leader in the digital payments space and revolutionised payments, making financial inclusion possible for millions of Indians spread across 99 per cent of the postal codes in the country.
The company also recently released its first-ever annual report, providing a comprehensive overview of the company’s vision, strategy, governance, and financial performance while highlighting its commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions for over a billion Indians.
India said that the developing world bears a disproportionate burden of climate change impacts, largely driven by historical emissions from developed countries….reports Asian Lite News
India has urged developed nations to intensify their support for climate adaptation in developing countries, highlighting the heightened risk to lives and livelihoods posed by the increasing severity of extreme weather events, especially in poorer nations.
Addressing a high-level ministerial dialogue on adaptation on Tuesday, Indian negotiator Rajasree Ray emphasized that the developing world bears a disproportionate burden of climate change impacts, largely driven by historical emissions from developed countries.
“The growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are putting the very survival of people in the developing world at risk,” Ray stated, urging wealthier nations to take greater responsibility.
India referenced the UAE framework for global climate resilience adopted at COP28 last year, which underscored the pressing need for enhanced support from developed countries. “This support must go beyond previous commitments, aligning with country-driven strategies while respecting their unique needs and evolving circumstances,” Ray added.
A major challenge, India pointed out, lies in the sluggish disbursement of climate adaptation funds under current financial mechanisms. Ray criticized the “long, complex approval procedures and stringent eligibility criteria” that hinder developing countries’ access to these vital resources.
India called for an ambitious financial framework post-2025, emphasizing the need for substantial grants and concessional finance. “Developed nations must play a pivotal role in mobilizing adaptation finance from both public and private sources for developing countries,” she said.
Sharing its domestic efforts, India noted that adaptation financing has so far been driven by internal resources. “We are developing our National Adaptation Plan and have estimated an adaptation capital requirement of up to $850 billion in our initial communication to the UNFCCC last year,” Ray revealed.
India’s appeal highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to tackle the growing climate crisis and ensure a sustainable future for vulnerable nations.
Recently, India’s Minister of State for Environment, Kirti Vardhan Singh, said raising of climate ambitions to align with Paris temperature goals has to be preceded by free availability of green technologies, producing them on scale and availability of finance for their deployment, particularly in the Global South.
“On the contrary, some of the developed countries have resorted to unilateral measures making climate actions more difficult for the Global South.”
Delivering the national statement during a plenary session, he said about the emergent situation, “We are in, there is no option but to break all barriers to the flow of technology, finances and capacity to the Global South. The theme of this COP (Conference of Parties) — ‘enabling actions and enhanced ambition’ is very relevant in this context.”
Singh said that COP29 is the COP for climate finance — the New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQG) on climate finance for mobilising climate finance for meeting the needs and priorities of developing countries.
“We all need to appreciate that huge costs are being imposed on a developing country like ours for undertaking climate actions. What we decide here on NCQG must be founded on the principle of climate justice. The decisions must be ambitious and unambiguous, taking into consideration the evolving needs and priorities of the developing countries, and their commitment to sustainable development and eradication of poverty,” he said.
Singh added that India was categorically clear in saying that the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) is due for submission the next year.
India remains among top 10 climate performers
India has retained its position among the top 10 countries in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, ranking 10th out of 63 nations assessed for their climate action efforts, according to a report released on Wednesday. Despite dropping two places compared to last year, India’s standing is attributed to its low per-capita emissions and rapid expansion of renewable energy.
The CCPI, published by Germanwatch, New Climate Institute, and Climate Action Network International, evaluates the world’s largest emitters based on emissions levels, renewable energy adoption, and climate policies. The countries assessed, along with the European Union, account for 90% of global emissions.
India’s rank keeps it among the highest-performing nations, reflecting its ongoing efforts to address climate change. However, the report cautions that significant shifts in India’s climate policy are unlikely. The country is expected to maintain its growth-driven approach to climate action, fueled by rising energy demand from its expanding industrial base and population.
Interestingly, the CCPI report did not award the top three positions, stating that no country met the criteria for an overall “very high” rating across all categories.
India’s performance underscores its progress in renewable energy deployment, a key factor in reducing its emissions footprint, even as it grapples with the challenges of balancing development and sustainability.
During his visit, General Dwivedi will pay homage at the martyrs’ memorial in the Army Pavilion and receive a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters….reports Asian Lite News
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, Indian Army arrived in Kathmandu on Wednesday on a five-day official visit upon the invitation of General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff, Nepali Army.
During his visit, General Dwivedi will pay homage at the martyrs’ memorial in the Army Pavilion and receive a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters. He will engage in an official meeting with General Sigdel from the Nepali Army.
As per the announcement of the Nepal Army last week, General Dwivedi will also interact with the student officers at the Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri and visit to Western Divisional Headquarters in Pokhara, Nepal.
General Dwivedi will be the conferred honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by the President of Nepal on Thursday. The practice follows a seven-decade-old tradition of conferring Army Chiefs of each other’s country with the honorary title. Commander-in-Chief General KM Cariappa was the first Indian Army Chief to be decorated with the title in 1950.
Additionally, General Dwivedi will also meet the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister of Nepal.
The strong relations between Nepal and the Indian Army have been further cemented via the Gurkha Regiment. Currently, over 30,000 Gurkha soldiers from Nepal are serving in the Indian Army.
In addition to the Military Pension Branch in Kathmandu, Pension Paying offices also function in Dharan and Pokhara, along with the District Soldier Boards, which helps in the effective disbursal of pensions and in organizing various welfare programs including re-training, re-rehabilitating and assisting ex-Gurkha soldiers and their families.
Nepal shares the border with 5 Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
The age-old civilizational and cultural ties that exist between India and Nepal are exemplified by the strong people-to-people link between both countries.
Nepal is a priority partner of India under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy. These bonds of friendship are also strengthened by regular exchanges at high-level between India and Nepal.
These frequent high-level visits and exchanges have added momentum to the bilateral partnerships and helped the leadership to review at regular intervals the entire gamut of the relations.
India and Nepal have a long-standing and extensive mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of defence and security. Both armies share an excellent and harmonious relationship based on mutual trust and respect. India and Nepal also have long-standing tradition of awarding Honorary rank of General to each other’s’ Army Chief. (ANI)
Mumbai, Nov 20 (ANI): Actor Shah Rukh Khan, his daughter and actor Suhana Khan and son Aryan Khan leave after casting their votes for Maharashtra Assembly elections, in Mumbai on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)
The poll of three exit polls showed the Mahayuti alliance winning around 158 seats in Maharashtra, while it gave a slim edge to the BJP in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly…reports Asian Lite News
The Mahayuti alliance of BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP is likely to retain Maharashtra, as per predictions by three exit polls. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, the BJP-led NDA will be in a close contest with the JMM-Congress alliance, predictions showed.
The poll of three exit polls showed the Mahayuti alliance winning around 158 seats, crossing the halfway mark comfortably in Maharashtra. In Jharkhand, the poll of exit polls gave a slim edge to the BJP, with the NDA predicted to secure 45 seats in 81-member Assembly.
As per Matrize forecast, Mahayuti could win anywhere between 150–170 seats. It has given 110–130 seats to the MVA, which comprises the Congress, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and Sharad Pawar’s NCP faction.
Chanakya survey shows the Mahayuti alliance winning 152 to 160 seats, while Maha Vikas Aghadi could claim victory on 130 to 138 seats.
The Times Now-JVC exit poll showed a clear mandate for Mahayuti, with predictions showing the alliance winning 159 seats. The MVA alliance is likely to claim 116 seats, survey showed.
The poll of three exit polls showed Mahayuti winning 158 seats and MVA 123 seats in the Maharashtra elections. In Maharashtra, which has 288 assembly seats, the halfway mark is 145 seats.
The Matrize prediction gave the BJP-led NDA 42-47 seats in Jharkhand elections, securing a clear mandate. The halfway mark is 40. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-Congress is likely to get 25 to 30 seats.
The Chanakya Strategies also predicted an edge for the BJP-led alliance. The survey gave NDA 45 to 50 seats, and the JMM-Congress alliance 35 to 38 seats.
Meanwhile, the Times Now-JVC exit poll showed a close contest, with the BJP-led alliance just crossing the halfway mark. The forecast showed NDA bagging anywhere near 40 to 44 seats. The JMM-Congress alliance is predicted to win 30 to 40 seats.
The poll of three exit polls showed the BJP alliance winning 45 seats and the JMM-Congress combine winning 33 seats in the Jharkhand elections.
Another pollster C-Voter, however, shared predictions for only 61 of the 80 seats; it forecast 34 seats for NDA and 26 for the INDIA bloc. Twenty seats were too close to call, the pollster contended.
Jharkhand voted in two phases on November 13 and November 20, while polling was held in a single phase in Maharashtra on November 20. The counting of votes for both Assembly elections will be held on November 23.
Meanwhile, Congress candidate from Jamshedpur East, Dr Ajoy Kumar also responded to the exit polls and said, “We have to wait till November 23. Different reports (Exit Polls) have come from different places. Exit Polls do show a trend but for the past few elections, it has been facing difficulties. We are awaiting the result day. But we are fully confident that JMM-Congress government will be formed in Jharkhand because parties and candidates also conduct their surveys.”
Another Congress candidate from Nagpur North, Dr Nitin Raut also reacted to the exit poll predictions and said, “Many a time in Exit Polls if someone has actually voted for Congress, they feel that why should they reveal that they voted for Congress. So, in the Exit Polls, they say that they have voted for the BJP.”
Advantage BJP in UP bypolls
Even as voting for the nine seats in Uttar Pradesh (UP) bypolls is over, the JVC and Matrize exit polls are pointing to Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) win in nearly six-seven seats. The opposition Samajwadi Party (SP), meanwhile, is likely to clinch the remaining two-three seats.
The Congress has extended its support to the Akhilesh Yadav-led SP and is not contesting on any seats.
Matrize projections show the National Democratic Alliance winning seven seats, with SP ahead on two. Voting in bypolls to the Legislative Assembly seats in UP gained some momentum following a slow start on Wednesday, but the turnout across constituencies did not cross the 60-per cent mark. Ghaziabad logged only 33 per cent of voting.
In the 2022 Assembly polls, the state had recorded an overall turnout of 61.03 per cent. The voter turnout in Katehari (56.69 per cent), Khair (46.43 per cent), Kundarki (57.32 per cent), Karhal (53.92 per cent), Majhawan (50.41 per cent), Meerapur (57.02 per cent), Phulpur (43.43 per cent) and Sisamau (49.03 per cent) were all below 60 per cent, according to the Election Commission’s data at 5 pm.
Across the 15 Assembly seats that have gone to polls in UP, Punjab, Kerala, and Uttarakhand, the voter turnout figures have only crossed the halfway mark on average.
The voting was also marred by accusations of alleged irregularities by police officials and misuse of the government machinery.
For not following the guidelines of the EC, five police personnel were suspended, with many others being taken off poll duty in UP, officials said. The allegations include “stopping electors from casting votes” in the Assembly bypolls, officials said.
New Delhi: Official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal briefs media, in New Delhi,Friday, April 12, 2024.(IANS/Video Grab)
The Ministry of External Affairs further emphasised that “smear campaigns” like this only “further damage our already strained ties.”..reports Asian Lite News
India has strongly refuted the reports in Canadian media regarding the killing of India-designated Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and said it should be dismissed with the “contempt they deserve.”
The Ministry of External Affairs further emphasised that “smear campaigns” like this only “further damage our already strained ties.”
“We do not normally comment on media reports. However, such ludicrous statements made to a newspaper purportedly by a Canadian government source should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve. Smear campaigns like this only further damage our already strained ties,” a statement by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Wednesday stated.
This comes after a report in Canada-based Globe and Mail attempted to draw a connection between the death of NIA-designated terrorist Hardeep Nijjar and the Indian government.
Notably, India’s ties with Canada have seen sharp deterioration with India repeatedly expressing its deep concern about extremism and the culture of violence and anti-India activities in Canada and has asked Canadian authorities to take action against these activities.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has claimed that he has “credible allegations” of India’s hand in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year.
India has denied all the allegations, calling them “absurd” and “motivated” and has accused Canada of giving space to extremist and anti-India elements in their country.
Earlier this month, India recalled six diplomats from Canada after they were declared “persons of interest” by the Canadian government in the investigation into the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Meanwhile, MEA has called on Canada to extradite Arsh Dalla, a Khalistani terrorist to “face justice in India.”
Canadian authorities have arrested designated Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh Gill, alias Arsh Dalla, following a violent shooting incident in Milton, Ontario, according to a report in local Canadian television outlet CTV.
In response to media queries regarding the arrest of a designated terrorist Arsh Dalla in Canada, MEA Official Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal said, “In view of the recent arrest, our agencies will be following up on an extradition request. Given Arsh Dalla’s criminal record in India and his involvement in similar illegal activities in Canada, it is expected that he will be extradited or deported to face justice in India.”
Dalla, has been charged in a case related to the shooting in Ontario on October 28, as per a report by Adrian Ghobrial on CTV.
“We have seen media reports circulating since November 10 on the arrest in Canada of proclaimed offender Arsh Singh Gill alias Arsh Dalla, the de facto chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force. Canadian print and visual media have widely reported on the arrest. We understand that the Ontario Court has listed the case for hearing,” read the press release of the MEA.
Arsh Dalla is a proclaimed offender in over 50 cases of murder, attempt to murder, extortion and terrorist acts including terror financing. In May 2022, a Red Corner Notice was issued against him.
“He was designated in India as an individual terrorist in 2023. In July 2023, India requested the Canadian government for his provisional arrest. This was declined. Additional information was provided in this case,” added the release.
Dala is a close aide of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed outside a Gurudwara in Surrey in June 2023. In January 2023, the Union Home Ministry had declared him a “terrorist” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. He is among the most wanted terrorists in the country and has been charged in various cases of targeted killings and extortion.
The initiative will provide researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive solutions. ..reports Asian Lite News
The Ministry of Science and Technology on Wednesday launched India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) data bank that is aimed at propelling innovation and boosting the country’s national security.
The initiative will provide researchers, startups, and developers access to high-quality, diverse datasets essential for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions.
It was launched by Minister of Science and Technology Minister (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh at the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024.
The event, themed “AI for India: Advancing India’s AI Development – Innovation, Ethics, and Governance”, showcased India’s strategic roadmap for harnessing the transformative potential of AI.
The AI Data Bank will enhance “national security through real-time analytics of satellite, drone, and IoT data”, the Minister said.
It also aligns with the country’s goal to utilise AI for predictive analytics in disaster management and cyber security. While AI “is an essential tool, it must be used optimally with responsible handling”, said Singh.
The Minister also emphasised the pivotal role of AI in reshaping various sectors, including governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration. He highlighted AI as the backbone of India’s future development, capable of driving economic growth and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, public service delivery, and national security.
At the event, Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to ensuring transparent and fair AI systems, with robust governance frameworks being developed to address challenges like algorithmic bias and data privacy. The Minister highlighted the government’s focus on using AI to empower citizens and ensure equitable access to the benefits of this transformative technology. He stated that AI must bridge divides rather than create them and must empower people without replacing them.
The event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange insights and chart a responsible path for AI adoption in India.
Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani and six others indicted for allegedly offering $265 million in bribes to Indian government officials for securing “lucrative solar energy supply contracts” with state electricity distribution companies …reports Asian Lite News
US prosecutors in New York indicted Adani Group Chairman Gautam S Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani and six others on Wednesday for allegedly offering Rs 2,029 crore ($265 million) in bribes to Indian government officials for securing “lucrative solar energy supply contracts” with state electricity distribution companies.
“This indictment alleges schemes to pay over $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials, to lie to investors and banks to raise billions of dollars, and to obstruct justice,” a press release issued by the US Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York, said quoting US Deputy Assistant Attorney General Lisa H Miller.
The other six defendants named are: i) Vneet Jaain, who is the CEO of Adani Green Energy Ltd, ii) Ranjit Gupta (who was CEO of Azure Power Global Ltd between 2019 and 2022), iii) Rupesh Agarwal, who also worked with Azure Power (between 2022 and 2023); iv, v, vi) Cyril Cabanes, a citizen of Australia and France, Saurabh Agarwal and Deepak Malhotra, all three who worked with a Canadian institutional investor.
An Adani Group spokesperson said the group would soon issue a statement. Sources in the Adani Group said the charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
In a parallel move, the Securities and Exchange Commission Wednesday charged Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani, executives of Adani Green Energy Ltd., and Cyril Cabanes, an executive of Azure Power Global Ltd., with conduct arising out of a massive bribery scheme. SEC filed both the complaints in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
In their indictment, the US prosecutors have anonymised the names of all entities and some individuals but noted in the footnote that their identities are known to the Grand Jury. Gautam Adani is named but is described as the Founder of an Indian Conglomerate, which is a diversified, multinational organisation with corporate offices in India. Sagar Adani (Executive Director of Adani Green Energy) is described as the Executive Director of an “Indian Energy Company” which is a publicly-listed renewable energy company in the Conglomerate’s portfolio. Ranjit Gupta, who was the CEO of Azure Power, and Rupesh Agarwal who was the Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer of Azure Power, are described with the same designations working for an “US Issuer”.
Explaining what it called the “corrupt solar project”, the prosecutors said the “Indian Energy Company” and the “US Issuer” won awards to supply 8 gigawatts and 4 gigawatts of solar power at a fixed rate to state-owned Solar Energy Corporation of India. But since SECI could not find any state electricity distribution companies to purchase this power, it could not enter into corresponding power purchase agreements with Adani Group and Azure Power.
As a result, in or about 2020, the defendants Gautam S Adani, Sagar R Adani, Vneet S Jaain, Ranjit Gupta and Co-Conspirator #2, among others, devised a scheme to offer, authorise, make and promise to make bribe payments to Indian government officials in exchange for the government officials causing state electricity distribution companies to enter into power supply agreements with SECI,” it said. Co-Conspirator #2 is one of the two conspirators who once worked with the “US Issuer” and “undertook extensive efforts to corruptly persuade government officials”.
Referring to a high-ranking government official of Andhra Pradesh as “Foreign Official #1”, it said “Rs 1,750 crore (approximately $228 million) of the corrupt payments was offered in exchange for… causing Andhra Pradesh’s state electricity distribution companies to agree to purchase seven gigawatts of solar power from SECI (state-owned Solar Energy Corporation of India) under the Manufacturing Linked Project.”
Gautam Adani, the indictment said, had personally met “Foreign Official #1” to advance the execution of a power supply agreement between SECI and Andhra Pradesh’s state electricity distribution companies thrice during August-November 2021.
Referring to communications about the bribery scheme between the defendants and conspirators, the indictment says, Gautam S Adani was referred to in code name as “SAG,” “Mr[.] A,” “Numero uno” and “the big man”, and Jaain as “V,” “snake” and “Numero uno minus one.”
Cong demands JPC probe
Reacting to the indictment and the SEC move, Congress leader and General Secretary in-charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, said, “The indictment of Gautam Adani and others by the SEC vindicates the demand that the Congress has been making since Jan 2023 for a JPC investigation into the various Modani scams.”
Adani shares down by up to 20%
Shares of Adani group companies plummeted by up to 20 per cent after the indictment. Adani Green Energy plunged by 18.76 per cent, Adani Energy Solutions by 20 per cent, Adani Enterprises by 10 per cent, Adani Power by 13.98 per cent and Adani Ports by 10 per cent in the morning session. Adani shares dragged the benchmark Sensex by 0.85 per cent, or 655 points, to 76,922.56 and the NSE Nifty fell by 198 points to 23,319.95 on selling pressure.
PM Modi assured CARICOM of continued help and cooperation when the region and the Global South have been hit hard by the new challenges the world is facing…reports Asian Lite News
Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) of nations have expressed their gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming the voice of the Global South and putting the concerns of the Caribbean nations on the world’s agenda.
Responding to them at the second India-CARICOM Summit on Wednesday, PM Modi assured them of continued help and cooperation when the region and the Global South have been hit hard by the new challenges the world is facing.
India has always responded to the concerns of the Global South, he said.
CARICOM’s Chairman Dickon Mitchell said, “I express on behalf of all of CARICOM citizens, our deep gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and the government and great people of India for India’s proactive and influential role in championing the ideals and aspirations of the Global South.”
Mitchell, who is also the Prime Minister of Grenada, said, “We commend India’s unwavering commitment to the sustainable development of our region, especially in this intricate and interconnected era of globalisation.”
He told the CARICOM leaders that PM Modi’s “commitment to fostering international partnerships and his dedication to sustainable development has set a remarkable example for us all”.
He mentioned India’s donation of Covid vaccines to the CARICOM countries and said “It demonstrated that at the time of its own great need, it cared enough about its brothers and sisters within CARICOM”.
He said that PM Modi’s “visionary leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the ties between India and CARICOM”.
Mitchell added, “His leadership has not only propelled India to new heights, but it has also opened new avenues for collaboration with our region” and noted India’s emergence as the fastest-growing major economy.
“Our collaboration spans various sectors, including trade, technology, healthcare, education, and climate resilience, each contributing to the sustainable development and prosperity of our regions” and “India’s expertise in such key areas as agriculture, energy, health, human resource development, and information and communications technology” can help the region, he said.
CARICOM Summit’s host, Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, told PM Modi that with his “visionary leadership, India has become an influential voice in the international community, you are emerging as the voice of the Global South”.
India’s leadership of the G20 and its role in BRICS, the group of emerging major economies, and PM Modi’s “steadfast advocacy for the developing world underscores your commitment to advancing the aspirations of the Global South,” Ali said.
“These initiatives have elevated India’s stature and placed the concerns of developing nations, including the small island developing low-lying coastal states of the Caribbean, formally on the global agenda,” he added.
He said that PM Modi’s “steadfast advocacy for the developing world” and “advancing aspirations and Global South” have raised his stature.
Ali told PM Modi that this was an occasion for the leaders of CARICOM “to thank you and the people of India for your selfless attributes when you deliver to this region or a forest set of vaccines during the Covid pandemic”.
Brazil’s decision, as a significant BRICS member, highlights growing apprehensions about China’s expanding influence through the BRI globally…reports Asian Lite News
Before Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Brazil on November 20, the Brazilian government has abandoned China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Brazil is now the second BRICS nation to reject this multi-billion dollar project, following India.
Back in December 2023, Italy, the sole G7 country to join the BRI, also withdrew from this extensive infrastructure scheme. Brazil’s decision, as a significant BRICS member, highlights growing apprehensions about China’s expanding influence through the BRI globally.
Under President Lula da Silva, Brazil aims to enhance its relationship with China while avoiding formal commitments to the BRI. Brazilian officials are seeking Chinese investments without formally joining the BRI, reflecting a desire for strategic autonomy. Celso Amorim, Brazil’s special presidential adviser for international affairs, told O Globo that Brazil wants to “elevate its relationship with China to a new level without signing an accession contract.”
India at the BRICS summit-Exercise of Strategic Autonomy in difficult circumstances.(photo:IN)
Amorim clarified that Brazil does not see Chinese trade and infrastructure projects as “an insurance policy,” stating, “We are not entering into a treaty.” He explained that Brazil has identified priority projects that may not align with Chinese interests, emphasizing the importance of Brazil’s own priorities.
In an intriguing turn of events, Brazilian officials, including Celso Amorim and President Lula da Silva’s chief of staff, Rui Costa, visited Beijing last year to explore the BRI. However, they came back unconvinced by China’s proposals, pointing to the increasing hurdles and evolving views on the initiative’s long-term benefits among partner nations. Both Brazil’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Economy have voiced doubts about the BRI’s practical advantages, casting uncertainty on its strategic importance for Brazil’s national interests.
Like India, Brazil aims to stay out of the superpower rivalry and keep its strategic autonomy. Concerns are growing that joining the BRI could strain future U.S. relations, especially if Donald Trump returns to power. Trump’s past opposition to China heightens the stakes for BRI participants. Given these shifting geopolitical dynamics, Brazil is focusing on its infrastructure projects and seeking flexible partnerships with Chinese investors that align with its development goals, avoiding entanglements that could threaten its autonomy.
On the evening of June 23, Chinese President Xi Jinping chaired the 14th BRICS Summit in Beijing via video link. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Summit.(Photo:Xinhua/IANS)
Brazil, the world’s eighth-largest economy, has the US as its second-largest trading partner. In 2023, trade with the US reached $74.8 billion, with exports at $37.9 billion (down 26% from 2022) and imports at $36.9 billion (down 2%). US exports to Brazil made up 2.3% of total US exports, while imports from Brazil accounted for 1.2%. In May 2024, Brazil and the US agreed to boost trade and investment.
China, Brazil’s largest trading partner for 14 years, saw bilateral trade hit $181.53 billion in 2023, up 6.1% year-on-year. China’s exports to Brazil were $59.11 billion (down 4.3%), while imports from Brazil rose to $122.42 billion (up 11.9%).
BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, later welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. The coalition addresses political, economic, and cultural issues. China, contributing 70% of BRICS’ GDP, leads economically but the BRI remains its independent venture. This doesn’t affect BRICS+ unity, as members engage China while safeguarding national interests. Brazil exemplifies this by maintaining a strategic stance, focusing on economic growth and diversifying partnerships to uphold its foreign policy independence.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched in 2013, is a massive infrastructure project often seen as Xi Jinping’s hallmark effort. It aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through an extensive network of railways, highways, ports, and airports, reviving the ancient Silk Road. Spanning over 150 countries, including 22 in Latin America, the BRI seeks to boost global trade and investment.
However, unmet promises, environmental concerns, and China’s lending practices have raised doubts, with many nations reconsidering their involvement due to potential debt traps.
India’s BRICS involvement balances its ties with Western-led and Global South platforms. This strategy strengthens its U.S. relations while engaging with Russia and China. India, the first to express BRI reservations, consistently opposes the initiative, citing an unequal playing field for its businesses and has refused to join the BRI.
Tense Indo-China relations, marred by trade imbalances and border disputes, have deepened India’s negative view of the BRI. India opposes the initiative, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), seen as infringing on its territorial integrity.
India also perceives the BRI as a form of Chinese neo-colonialism, entrapping smaller nations in debt, damaging ecosystems, and disrupting communities. The controversial 99-year lease of Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port highlights such financial crises, raising concerns about sovereignty and Chinese influence.
Brazil and India’s shift away from the BRI underscores the mounting unease over China’s global infrastructure ambitions. India has been vocal in its criticism, pushing for international norms, governance, and transparency. The BRI is often seen as China using its advantages to build political ties. Acknowledging this, Brazil’s move mirrors India’s stance, marking a strategic decision to assert its geopolitical interests while managing global partnerships.( The article was published in DIRECTUS)
UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer made the announcement following a bilateral meeting with his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines on the G20 summit in Brazil…reports Asian Lite News
The UK India Business Council welcomed the announcement to resume the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks between India and UK in early 2025, an official statement said.
UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer made the announcement following a bilateral meeting with his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines on the G20 summit in Brazil.
Highlighting the importance of the new FTA with India, the UK PM said, ‘A new trade deal with India will support jobs and prosperity in the UK and represent a step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across our country.” He also added that boosting economic growth is key to improving living standards for working people.
UKIBC has engaged with ministers and senior officials across departments in both governments during the 13 rounds of negotiations to date and have witnessed a strong commitment from both sides to make this deal a reality.
Kevin McCole, Managing Director, UK-India Business Council, said, “We are delighted that the FTA negotiations will re-start early next year. This is an exciting chapter of the UK-India partnership. Negotiations are complex – it is, after all, the world’s 5th and 6th largest economies preparing for a comprehensive FTA – and it is important to secure a fair and ambitious deal. By concluding the FTA, smoothing the two-way flow of students and workers, and deepening R&D collaboration, the UK and Indian Governments will deliver stronger economic growth in both countries. This will create jobs and prosperity in India and the UK as well as being a force for global good.”
There have been 13 rounds of negotiations on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK, 14th was pushed for keeping in mind the elections in both the countries earlier this year. The negotiations started in 2022, and a substantial number of chapters have been discussed. Both the countries are aimed at enhancing bilateral trade, evident in the political will to close the deal.
Currently, the bilateral trade between the two countries is valued at £42 billion (USD 53.2 billion) in the 12 months to June 2024.
UKIBC is a policy advocacy and strategic consulting not-for-profit, with a mission to grow the UK-India trade and investment. To do that, we provide strategic and practical support to businesses and universities to explore, enter, and expand in both markets.
“We want to help more UK businesses to uncover opportunities and succeed in India. Business looking at the India opportunity need to develop a strategy based on factual market insights, and then implement that strategy. The UK India Business Council has the knowledge, networks, and people to help do this.” the UKIBC said.
“UK-India collaboration creates prosperity and jobs in both countries, and UK and Indian business have ideas, technology, services and products which improve lives. We work closely with the UK and Indian governments, the devolved administrations, England’s city regions, and State governments across India. We believe a strong UK-India economic partnership is a force for positive change globally,” it added. (ANI)
