1. Putin’s “Full Support” To PM Modi As Pak Seeks Russia Role In Pahalgam Probe
2. Defence Secretary meets Prime Minister; more cyberattacks from Pakistan-based groups
3. India Conducts Mock Drills Amid Tensions with Pakistan
4. Indian Navy, DRDO successfully test indigenous multi-influence ground mine
5. India Compiles Dossier on Pakistan-Based Terror Groups

What Else

1. Parliamentary panel seeks action against ‘anti-national’ influencers, platforms
2. India Asserts Control Over Water Flow to Pakistan Amid Tensions
3. Pakistani Hackers Target Indian Defence Websites
4. Terror hideout busted in J&K days after Pahalgam attack, IEDs found in tiffin box
5. ‘Nuclear Threat from Pakistan’s Military Cartel’: Asim Munir being Painted Hero after Pahalgam, Say Sources
6. BSF to get 16 new battalions, 2 field HQs for Pakistan, Bangladesh borders
7. Praveen Sood may get 1-year extension as no consensus on CBI chief’s successor
8. India Expresses Strong Concerns to Canada Over Pro-Khalistan Rally
9. Lufthansa To Emirates: International Airlines Shun Pakistan Airspace Amid India Tensions
10. Supreme Court publishes assets of 21 judges, says more to come
11. Pahalgam terror attack: UN chief Guterres calls for ‘maximum restraint’
12. China Reaffirms Support for Pakistan Amid Tensions with India
13. China-Pakistan Military Cooperation: A Key Factor in Regional Tensions
14. Pahalgam attack attempt to divert attention from India’s cross-border terrorism: Dar
15. Pakistan’s Info minister “refutes” claims of ‘terrorist hideouts’ during LoC visit
16. Iran FM Meets Pakistani Leaders Amid Rising Tensions
17. Pakistan tests launch of 120km-range Fatah missile: ISPR
18. Pakistan Holds National Security Briefing Amid Tensions with India
19. Pakistan will welcome Malaysia’s participation in Pahalgam incident probe: PM
20. Rawalpindi imposes water emergency as supply crisis worsens
21. Pakistan: 1 Soldier Killed, 8 terrorists killed in multiple engagements across KP, claimed ISPR
22. US House passes China bills on issues from economic espionage to human rights
23. US President Trump Says He’s Willing To Lower China Tariffs For This Reason
24. Bangladesh’s New Government ‘Tackles Press Freedom Issues’
25. Bangladesh: Election timing is for Bangladesh to decide, but time needed for reforms: EU ambassador
26. Bangladesh: 54 detained on allegation of attacking Hasnat Abdullah’s car

Putin’s “Full Support” To PM Modi As Pak Seeks Russia Role In Pahalgam Probe

• Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people were killed, and conveyed his deepest condolences to PM Modi.
• Putin emphasized that those involved in the attack must be brought to justice.
• This comes after Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif suggested that Russia, China, or Western countries could play a role in investigating the attack.
• Putin and Modi also discussed deepening strategic ties and accepted an invitation to visit India later this year.
• The two leaders emphasized that their bilateral relations are not affected by external influence and are developing dynamically.
• The Resistance Front, a proxy of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack.
• The call highlights the strong partnership between Russia and India, which has deepened during the Ukraine war. (more)

Defence Secretary meets Prime Minister; more cyberattacks from Pakistan-based groups

• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
• Meanwhile, a group called ‘Pakistan Cyber Force’ allegedly gained access to sensitive data from Indian defence websites, including the Indian Military Engineering Service and Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis.
• The group also defaced the website of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), a defence public sector undertaking.
• As a precaution, the AVNL website was taken offline for audit and cybersecurity experts are monitoring for additional cyberattacks.
• The government is taking measures to bolster security infrastructure and safeguard against future threats.
• This incident follows earlier cyberattack attempts on Army-affiliated institutions amid escalating tensions between the two countries (more)

India Conducts Mock Drills Amid Tensions with Pakistan

• The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked several states to conduct mock drills on Wednesday to test civil defence preparedness amid increased tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
• The drills will include operationalizing air raid warning sirens, training civilians on civil defence aspects, and rehearsing evacuation plans.
• The aim is to ensure effective civil defence in case of a military action.
• The move comes after India suspended the IWT and revoked visas of Pakistanis, prompting Pakistan to respond with similar measures, escalating tensions between the two countries.
• Tensions remain high. (more)

Indian Navy, DRDO successfully test indigenous multi-influence ground mine

• India’s Defence Advancements: The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully test-fired the indigenously designed Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM) to enhance naval capabilities.
• Meanwhile, DRDO also successfully carried out the maiden flight-trial of a stratospheric airship platform, which can enhance India’s earth observation and surveillance capabilities.
• The systems were developed by various DRDO laboratories and industry partners.(more)

India Compiles Dossier on Pakistan-Based Terror Groups

• Indian intelligence agencies have compiled a detailed dossier on two prominent Pakistan-based terrorist groups, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
• The dossier provides critical insights into the groups’ command hierarchy, funding channels, and key figures.
• Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM): Emir: Maulana Masood Azhar; Spox: Mohammad Hasan
• Key figures: Maulana Qari Masood Ahmed (Propaganda Wing), Mufti Asghar (Operations), and Maulana Mufti Mohammad Asghar alias Saad Baba (Launch Commander)
• Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT): Chief: Hafiz Mohammad Saeed, with his son Talha Saeed taking on increasing responsibilities

• Chief of Operations: Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks
• Key figures: Sajid Mir (mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks), Mohammad Yahya Mujahid (Spokesperson), and Haji Mohammad Ashraf (Finance Head)
• The dossier also highlights the groups’ operational bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and their funding networks, including the use of front organizations like Jamaat-ud-Dawa and Al Rehmat Trust.
• This intelligence is expected to aid security forces in dismantling these networks. (more)

Parliamentary panel seeks action against ‘anti-national’ influencers, platforms

• A parliamentary panel has directed the Ministries of I&B and Electronics and IT to provide details on planned actions against social media platforms and influencers allegedly working against national interests.
• The panel, headed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, expressed concern over online entities inciting violence amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
• The ministries have been asked to submit responses by May 8, outlining potential bans under the IT Act and rules.
• This move follows recent bans on YouTube channels, Instagram profiles, and X handles of Pakistani leaders, as well as FIRs against social media users. (more)

India Asserts Control Over Water Flow to Pakistan Amid Tensions

• India has taken significant steps in managing its water resources amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, following the Pahalgam terror attack.
• In a notable move, India has cut off water flow to Pakistan from the Baglihar dam on the Chenab river, reducing downstream flow by up to 90%.
• Additionally, India plans to halt runoffs from the Kishanganga project on the Jhelum River.
• In a related development, India has released water from the Baglihar and Salal dams on the Chenab river, a routine activity to clear the dams of silt and muck, but done earlier than usual.
• This may lead to a short-term increase in water flow downstream in Pakistan, followed by reduced flows later.
• Indus Waters Treaty: India has decided to keep the Indus Waters Treaty “in abeyance” following the Pahalgam terror attack, citing concerns over Pakistan’s actions.
• Water Resource Management: India aims to utilize its river waters for its citizens and is exploring ways to augment the water supply to northern states.
• Hydel Power Projects: 4 hydel power projects in Jammu and Kashmir, with a total capacity of 3,014 MW, are progressing steadily and are expected to be commissioned by 2027-28.
• Assertive Water Management: The move is seen as a sign of India’s assertiveness in managing its water resources amid tensions with Pakistan, with potential implications for the region’s water dynamics. (more, more)

Pakistani Hackers Target Indian Defence Websites

• Pakistani hackers, claiming to be from “Pakistan Cyber Force,” allegedly breached sensitive data of Indian defence personnel, including login credentials, from the Military Engineer Services and Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis.
• They also attempted to deface the website of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited, displaying the Pakistan flag and the Al Khalid tank.
• The Indian Army has taken precautionary measures, including taking the affected website offline for audit and bolstering security infrastructure.
• Cybersecurity experts are monitoring for further attacks, and efforts are being made to enhance online platform resilience and defend against future cyber threats. (more)

Terror hideout busted in J&K days after Pahalgam attack, IEDs found in tiffin box

• Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have recovered 5 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from a terrorist hideout in Poonch district.
• The hideout was discovered in a joint operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in the forested area of Surankote.
• The IEDs were concealed in tiffin boxes and steel buckets.
• Communication devices and other incriminating materials were also seized.
• This operation is part of a larger counter-terrorism effort across the Valley, where security forces are targeting terrorist associates and dismantling their support networks.
• The security forces are working to prevent further attacks and send a strong message against terrorism. (more)

‘Nuclear Threat from Pakistan’s Military Cartel’: Asim Munir being Painted Hero after Pahalgam, Say Sources

• Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir is being portrayed as a hero after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people.
• However, sources close to former PM Imran Khan claim that Pakistanis “hate” him and that he’s being painted as a hero only due to his anti-India stance.
• Munir recently addressed troops, warning that any Indian military action would be met with a “swift, resolute and notch-up response”.
• Critics see this as a “trap” and believe that India should expose the military cartel to end cross-border terrorism.
• They also suggest that Pakistan needs civilian democracy to put an end to this issue.
• Furthermore, there’s reportedly large-scale corruption among top military leadership due to Munir, with those who act against him being targeted.
• Some even compare Pakistan under Munir to North Korea. (more)

BSF to get 16 new battalions, 2 field HQs for Pakistan, Bangladesh borders

• The Border Security Force (BSF) is set to receive government approval to raise 16 new battalions, comprising around 17,000 troopers, to strengthen security along the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders.
• The plan has already received in-principle approval, and final sanctions from the Union Finance Ministry are expected soon.
• The new battalions will be raised over the next five to six years.
• Two forward headquarters will be set up, one in Jammu for the western command and another in Mizoram for the eastern command.
• This move aims to enhance surveillance and security along the borders, particularly after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh and the Pahalgam massacre.
• The BSF currently guards 6,726 km of the two borders and has 193 battalions with 2.70 lakh personnel.
• The force will initiate recruitment drives to hire men and women for the new battalions. (more)

Praveen Sood may get 1-year extension as no consensus on CBI chief’s successor

• CBI Director Praveen Sood’s two-year term ends on May 25, and he’s likely to get a one-year extension due to a lack of consensus on his successor.
• A high-level selection committee led by PM Modi, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna met but couldn’t agree on a candidate.
• Sood, a 1986-batch IPS officer, has been CBI Director since May 2023 (more)

India Expresses Strong Concerns to Canada Over Pro-Khalistan Rally

• India has conveyed its concerns in the “strongest terms” to the Canadian High Commission after a pro-Khalistan rally in Toronto depicted PM Modi and other top ministers in an objectionable manner.
• The rally used threatening language and imagery against Indian leadership and citizens residing in Canada.
• India has called on Canadian authorities to act against anti-India elements spreading hatred and extremism.
• The incident has strained India-Canada relations, which had already turned cold since Sept 2023 when former PM Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of assassinating a pro-Khalistan preacher in Canada. (more)

Lufthansa To Emirates: International Airlines Shun Pakistan Airspace Amid India Tensions

• Several international airlines are avoiding Pakistani airspace due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.
• Airlines Avoiding Pakistani Airspace:
• Air France: Suspended overflight of Pakistan until further notice, altering flight schedules and plans with destinations like Delhi, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh.
• Lufthansa: Avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice, monitoring developments and updating routes accordingly.
• British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, and Emirates: Rerouting flights over the Arabian Sea to avoid Pakistani airspace, reflecting broader industry caution.
• This move will likely impact Pakistan’s economy, cutting earnings from overflight fees and straining its already limited foreign exchange reserves of $10.2 billion. (more)

Supreme Court publishes assets of 21 judges, says more to come

• The Supreme Court of India has published the assets of 21 of its 33 serving judges on its website, showcasing transparency.
• All five Collegium judges have disclosed their assets.
• The court has also uploaded the process of appointments to High Courts and the Supreme Court, including the role of Collegiums and governments.
• The move comes ahead of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s superannuation.
• The court stated that the full court had decided on Apr 1^st, to make judges’ asset statements public.
• Assets of some judges, including Justice B.V. Nagarathna, are yet to be uploaded. (more)

Pahalgam terror attack: UN chief Guterres calls for ‘maximum restraint’

• UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for maximum restraint between India and Pakistan, warning that a military solution is “no solution” to their conflict.
• He offered his help to bring down tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack.
• Guterres condemned the attack and urged both countries to avoid confrontation, which could “spin out of control”.
• The UN Security Council is set to hold a closed-door meeting on the situation. (more)

[Neighborhood]

China Reaffirms Support for Pakistan Amid Tensions with India

• China has reiterated its support for Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, with President Asif Ali Zardari meeting Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong to discuss the escalating situation.
• Zardari expressed concerns over India’s “irresponsible and aggressive rhetoric,” which he believes threatens regional peace and stability.
• The Chinese ambassador reaffirmed the “time-tested friendship” between China and Pakistan, emphasizing China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in achieving peace and stability in South Asia.
• China has previously urged both countries to exercise restraint and endorsed Pakistan’s proposal for a neutral probe into the attack.
• Pakistan continues to engage in diplomatic efforts with various countries, including Malaysia and Russia, to brief them on the situation and garner support.
• China’s backing is seen as significant given its influential role in regional geopolitics. (more)

China-Pakistan Military Cooperation: A Key Factor in Regional Tensions

• The relationship between China and Pakistan is a strategic partnership that has been strengthened over the years through extensive military cooperation.
• China is Pakistan’s largest supplier of military hardware, accounting for 81% of its arms imports between 2020 and 2024.
• This cooperation includes the supply of advanced fighter jets, submarines, frigates, drones, and missile systems.
• Major Deals:

• Submarines: China has signed a $5 billion deal to supply 8 Type-041 submarines to Pakistan, with 4 to be built in China and 4 in Pakistan under license.
• Frigates: China has supplied four Type-054A/P guided-missile frigates to Pakistan, valued at approximately $1.4 billion.
• J-10CE Jets: Pakistan has acquired 36 J-10CE jets from China, valued at $1.5-2 billion.
• JF-17 Fighter Jets: The JF-17 Thunder fighter jet is a joint project between China and Pakistan, with over 140 jets in service. The total value of the program is estimated to be $2-3 billion.
• Wing Loong II Drones: China and Pakistan have agreed to co-produce 48 Wing Loong II unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) for the Pakistan AF, valued at $200-300 million.
• Joint Exercises:

• Shaheen Air Exercises: Annual/biennial air force drills between China and Pakistan, focusing on air combat and joint tactics.
• Sea Guardian Naval Exercises: Joint naval drills in the Arabian Sea, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and joint patrols.
• Shared Destiny Peacekeeping Exercise: Joint peacekeeping exercise between China and Pakistan.
• Warrior Counterterrorism Drills: Counterterrorism exercises to protect Chinese interests in Pakistan and secure CPEC projects.
• Strategic Implications:

• Regional Tensions: China-Pakistan military cooperation contributes to regional tensions, particularly with India.
• The partnership allows Pakistan to maintain a strong military posture, which can escalate tensions with its neighbors.
• CPEC Security: China is investing heavily in securing its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in Pakistan, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
• The security of these projects is a key concern for China, and it has been working with Pakistan to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals and investments.
• Military Dependence: Pakistan’s dependence on China for military hardware and support has significant implications for regional dynamics.
• It allows China to exert influence over Pakistan’s military decisions and shapes the balance of power in the region.
• The China-Pakistan military partnership has significant implications for regional security and stability.
• As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, the role of China in supporting Pakistan’s military capabilities will likely be a key factor in shaping the outcome. (more)

Pahalgam attack attempt to divert attention from India’s cross-border terrorism: Dar

• Pakistan’s Deputy PM Ishaq Dar has accused India of possibly orchestrating the Pahalgam attack in occupied Kashmir to divert attention from its internal challenges and cross-border terrorism.
• Dar suggested the attack might be “self-choreographed” and part of a pattern to escalate regional tensions.
• India has implied cross-border linkages of the attackers, which Pakistan has firmly rejected, calling for a neutral probe.
• Tensions have risen, with both countries reinforcing their forces and diplomatic channels remaining engaged to prevent conflict.
• The UK has offered to work with both countries to reduce tensions.
• India’s actions have been termed “unilateral, politically-motivated, and highly provocative” by Dar, who warned of consequences beyond India’s borders.
• Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and urged international involvement for de-escalation.

Pakistan’s Info minister “refutes” claims of ‘terrorist hideouts’ during LoC visit

• Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar visited the Line of Control (LoC) with local and foreign media to refute India’s claims of “terrorist hideouts” in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
• Tarar claimed the allegations as “false and baseless Indian propaganda” and took the media representatives to specific locations to showcase the ground reality.
• He claimed that India’s narrative has failed to gain traction in the international media due to contradictions and a lack of evidence.
• Tarar warned India against any misadventure, asserting that Pakistan would respond strongly to defend its sovereignty.
• Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army exchanged fire with Indian troops along the LoC, responding to what it termed “unprovoked firing” by India.
• The tensions between the two countries continue to escalate, with both sides trading fire and accusations.
• The international community remains watchful as the situation unfolds (more)

Iran FM Meets Pakistani Leaders Amid Rising Tensions

• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Pakistani leaders, including PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Gen Asim Munir, amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack.
• Araghchi’s visit aimed to discuss regional stability and bilateral relations.
• Pakistan’s Deputy PM Ishaq Dar shared concerns over India’s “provocative behavior” and rejected unsubstantiated claims linking Pakistan to the incident.
• Both sides emphasized the importance of diplomacy and negotiations in resolving complex issues.
• The Iranian FM is expected to visit India later in the week, indicating potential diplomatic efforts to address the situation.
• The meetings highlight Pakistan’s efforts to garner international support and emphasize the need for a peaceful resolution to the tensions with India.
• Iran’s commitment to regional stability and bilateral cooperation with Pakistan was also reaffirmed. (more)

Pakistan tests launch of 120km-range Fatah missile: ISPR

• Pakistan successfully conducted a training launch of the Fatah Series surface-to-surface missile with a 120km range as part of the “Ex Indus” exercise.
• The launch aimed to ensure operational readiness and validate technical parameters, including the missile’s advanced navigation system and accuracy.
• Senior army officials, scientists, and engineers witnessed the test, which was praised by Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir.
• They expressed confidence in the Pakistan Army’s preparedness to thwart any aggression.
• Missile Details: The Fatah missile has a range of 120km and features advanced navigation and accuracy.
• The test comes amid heightened tensions with India following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which India attributes to cross-border terrorism, while Pakistan denies the claim.
• Recent Tests: Pakistan has also tested the Abdali Weapon System (450km range) and the Fatah-II guided rocket system (400km range) recently. (more)

Pakistan Holds National Security Briefing Amid Tensions with India

• Pakistan’s govt and military are briefing political parties on national security amid escalating tensions with India following the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The briefing, led by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, aims to discuss the current security situation and India’s accusations of Pakistan’s involvement in the attack.
• National Assembly Session: President Asif Ali Zardari has summoned an emergency session to condemn India’s threat to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty.
• PTI’s Decision: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has decided not to participate in the briefing, criticizing the govt for not convening an All Parties Conference to build national consensus.
• PTI emphasized its commitment to defending the country against external aggression and reiterated its condemnation of terrorism.
• The party questioned the government’s intentions, stating that the briefing seemed more like a “government-led” exercise rather than a genuine effort to forge national consensus.
• PTI reaffirmed its “unambiguous and consistent condemnation of all forms of terrorism.”
• A National Leader’s Vision: PTI highlighted Imran Khan’s repeated calls for national unity and internal stability, despite his imprisonment, as reflective of a national leader’s vision.
• Lack of Consensus: PTI criticized the government’s unilateral approach, arguing that an All Parties Conference is necessary to build consensus on national security. (more, more)

Pakistan will welcome Malaysia’s participation in Pahalgam incident probe: PM

• Pakistan Rejects India’s Allegations, Seeks Neutral Probe
• Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif discussed rising tensions in South Asia with Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, rejecting India’s allegations of Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam incident.
• Shehbaz called the claims “baseless” and reiterated Pakistan’s offer for an international, neutral investigation.
• Anwar Ibrahim supported Pakistan’s demand for an impartial probe, condemning violence and offering Malaysia’s mediation between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
• Malaysia’s Support: Ibrahim expressed understanding of Pakistan’s difficult circumstances and backed an independent investigation to identify those responsible.
• Mediation Offer: Malaysia offered to play a constructive role in easing regional tensions, citing its close ties with both Pakistan and India.
• International Support: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov have also offered mediation (more)

Rawalpindi imposes water emergency as supply crisis worsens

• Rawalpindi is facing a severe water crisis, prompting authorities to declare a water emergency for the second time this year.
• The Khanpur Dam has only a month’s worth of water reserves left, while the Rawal Dam can sustain the city’s needs for up to three months.
• Demand has surged to 50 million gallons per day, outstripping the 30 million gallons available. The water table has dropped to 650 feet due to below-average rainfall.
• Authorities are taking measures to conserve water, including imposing fines for unnecessary use and promoting water recycling. (more)

Pakistan: 1 Soldier Killed, 8 terrorists killed in multiple engagements across KP, claimed ISPR

• A soldier was martyred, and eight terrorists were killed in multiple engagements across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
• The military’s media wing reported that security forces conducted intelligence-based operations in North and South Waziristan districts, killing five terrorists.
• In another engagement, three terrorists were killed in Khyber and Bannu districts. The soldier, Naik Mujahid Khan, was martyred during an intense exchange in South Waziristan.
• Sanitization operations are underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists.
• The security forces remain determined to wipe out terrorism, strengthened by the sacrifices of brave soldiers. (more)
• [Pakistan continues to grapple with terrorism, with some critics accusing it of using terrorism as statecraft under the shield of nuclear power.]

US President Trump Says He’s Willing To Lower China Tariffs For This Reason

• US President Donald Trump is open to lowering tariffs imposed on China, admitting that current levies are so high that the two economies have essentially stopped doing business with each other.
• Trump’s “America First” policy includes a universal 10% tariff on most US imports, with duties on Chinese imports reaching 145%.
• China retaliated with 125% tariffs on American imports.
• Trump cited China’s economic struggles, including a decline in factory activity, as a reason for potential tariff reductions.
• China has shown signs of being open to trade talks, but insists the US must scrap tariffs first. Beijing’s commerce ministry stated that any talks would require concessions from the US side.
• Trump emphasized seeking a “fair deal” and claimed China has been “ripping us off for many years”.
• The trade standoff has rattled financial markets and risks driving up costs for manufacturing equipment and affordable goods (more)

US House passes China bills on issues from economic espionage to human rights

• The US House of Representatives has intensified its push against Beijing, passing a series of bills targeting industrial espionage, export controls, national security threats, and human rights abuses.
• The bills, passed with bipartisan consensus, include:
• The Economic Espionage Prevention Act: Authorizes the president to impose sanctions on foreign entities involved in trade secret theft or export law violations, targeting Chinese firms and entities transferring sensitive technologies to countries like Russia.
• The Maintaining American Superiority by Improving Export Control Transparency Act: Requires the Commerce Department to report regularly to Congress on export controls, focusing on high-risk technologies and foreign adversaries.
• Taiwan-related bills:
• Amendment to the Taiwan Assurance Act of 2020: Updates US policy toward Taiwan to reflect today’s strategic reality.
• Taiwan International Solidarity Act: Mandates annual reports on China’s efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and instructs US officials to urge international resistance.
• Human rights bills:
• No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labour Act: Prevents federal funds from supporting goods produced with forced labor in Xinjiang.
• Falun Gong Protection Act: Requires sanctions on Chinese officials involved in forced organ harvesting and other abuses targeting Falun Gong practitioners.
• These bills have stalled in the Senate and must be passed before heading to the White House for enactment into law. (more)

Bangladesh‘s New Government ‘Tackles Press Freedom Issues’

• Bangladesh’s Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam has urged media outlets not to “manufacture consent in favor of fascism” while discussing press freedom issues.
• The government is working on 266 lawsuits filed against journalists, with 29 cases deemed personal and potentially withdrawable.
• A publication highlighted the killing of 61 journalists and torture of 3,588 in 15 years under the previous regime.
• The govt’s efforts aim to ensure accountability and protect journalists’ rights. (more)

Bangladesh: Election timing is for Bangladesh to decide, but time needed for reforms: EU ambassador

• European Union ambassador Michael Miller stated that Bangladesh will decide on the timing of national elections but emphasized the need for sufficient time for reforms.
• The EU is willing to assist with elections and hopes political parties and the interim government will work together on reforms.
• Miller also stressed the importance of transparency in trials related to the July mass uprising and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches everyone equally near the border.
• He mentioned that to repatriate money laundered to EU countries, Bangladesh should provide adequate data to the respective countries. (more)

Bangladesh: 54 detained on allegation of attacking Hasnat Abdullah’s car

• 54 people have been detained by the police in Gazipur for allegedly attacking the vehicle of Hasnat Abdullah, National Citizen Party (NCP) chief organizer in the southern region.
• The police claim most of the detained individuals are leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations.
• The attack occurred on Sun evening at Chandana intersection, leaving Hasnat Abdullah injured with cuts on his elbow.
• The police launched a drive to arrest the attackers, with two initial arrests made, including a Jubo League leader and a Sheikh Russell Shishu Kishore Parishad president.
• Legal action is underway.
• According to the Gazipur Metropolitan Police, the detained individuals are mostly leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations, accused of attempting to create unrest.
• It’s essential to note that, as per the police statement, no complaint or case has been filed with the police station regarding the incident yet.

The police are still conducting operations to identify and arrest the attackers (more)