Lai Ching-te welcomed Pena with military honors at the presidential office in Taipei, including a ceremonial parade and cannon salute, before bilateral talks focused on political and economic cooperation.“Taiwan and Paraguay are partners firmly committed to the values of democracy, freedom and human rights,” Lai said during the ceremony, thanking Paraguay for supporting Taiwan’s participation on the international stage.

Pena reaffirmed Paraguay’s diplomatic backing for Taiwan, describing the relationship as a strategic alliance grounded in shared democratic principles.“Paraguay deeply values this relationship and reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting Taiwan,” Pena said.

Taiwan currently maintains formal diplomatic relations with only 12 countries after decades of pressure from China, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory and opposes any official recognition of the island’s government.Beijing has steadily persuaded countries to switch diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing through economic and political incentives, reducing Taiwan’s international footprint, particularly in Latin America and the Pacific.

Pena’s delegation includes senior government officials and business representatives, reflecting efforts to deepen trade, investment and technological cooperation between the two sides.

Since arriving on Thursday, Pena has met Taiwan’s vice president and cabinet officials and received an honorary doctorate from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, which he described as a symbol of the countries’ “solid alliance.”The visit comes shortly after Lai returned from a diplomatic trip to Eswatini, Taiwan’s sole diplomatic ally in Africa.

Taiwan’s foreign ministry recently accused China of pressuring Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar to revoke overflight permissions for Lai’s original itinerary to Eswatini, forcing him to alter travel arrangements and use the aircraft of Eswatini’s king.

Lai’s administration has sought to strengthen ties with remaining diplomatic partners while expanding informal relations with Western democracies, particularly the United States and European countries.Taiwan’s last major overseas diplomatic tour took place in November 2024, when Lai visited Pacific allies and transited through Guam, a U.S. territory.

Reports last year suggested the administration of Donald Trump denied Lai permission to transit through New York during a planned Latin America trip, though Taiwan’s foreign ministry denied those claims.

Trivedi, 75, a former railways and health minister and a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is expected to take up the assignment shortly, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

The appointment comes as India seeks to restore trust with Bangladesh after bilateral relations deteriorated in 2024, when a popular uprising forced then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to New Delhi, where she remains.

Her removal strained ties during the tenure of Bangladesh’s interim administration, which Indian officials viewed as moving closer to China, raising strategic concerns in New Delhi over Beijing’s expanding influence in South Asia.

Relations began improving after February elections brought Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to power, replacing the interim government and opening space for renewed diplomatic engagement between the two countries.

Trivedi’s appointment is seen as politically significant because India typically appoints senior career foreign service officers to such diplomatic posts. His political background and long experience in national and regional politics suggest New Delhi is seeking a more direct political channel in managing relations with Dhaka.

He joined the BJP in 2021 after leaving a regional political party in West Bengal, the Indian state bordering Bangladesh that plays a central role in cross-border trade, migration and security issues.West Bengal is also strategically important for Modi’s party as it seeks to expand its electoral footprint in ongoing state-level political contests.

Bangladesh, formerly East Pakistan, was part of British India before partition in 1947 and became independent in 1971 with military and political support from India, making the bilateral relationship historically sensitive and strategically significant.

Bangladesh’s foreign minister visited New Delhi earlier this month seeking increased fuel and fertiliser supplies, stronger energy cooperation and relaxed travel restrictions for Bangladeshi citizens.

However, one of the most sensitive unresolved issues remains India’s refusal so far to extradite Hasina, a point of friction in the relationship despite the broader diplomatic thaw.India has not publicly indicated any change in its position regarding Hasina, whose continued stay in New Delhi remains politically contentious in Bangladesh.

The appointment of Trivedi underscores India’s effort to preserve its influence in Dhaka at a time when Beijing continues to expand economic and strategic ties across the region through infrastructure investment, trade and defense cooperation.

The remarks originated from U.S. conservative radio host Michael Savage during an episode of his show “The Savage Nation,” in which he criticized birthright citizenship in the United States and referred to countries including India and China in derogatory terms.

Trump reposted a transcript of the comments on his Truth Social platform on Thursday without adding his own remarks.

India’s foreign ministry responded strongly, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal saying the remarks were “obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” and did not reflect the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

“The remarks certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-U.S. relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests,” Jaiswal said in a statement.

The U.S. embassy in New Delhi cited Trump as having previously described India as “a great country,” seeking to underscore the broader context of ties between the two nations.The comments come amid ongoing debate in the United States over birthright citizenship, with Trump pursuing restrictions that are currently under legal challenge in the Supreme Court.

Earlier this month, he attended a hearing on the issue in a rare presidential visit to the court.India’s main opposition Indian National Congress condemned the remarks as “extremely insulting,” urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to formally raise the issue with Washington.

Government data show approximately 5.5 million people of Indian origin reside in the United States, forming one of the largest Asian-origin communities alongside Chinese Americans.Despite the diplomatic friction, both countries have been engaged in efforts to strengthen economic ties.

Following a period of trade tensions, including the imposition of high U.S. tariffs on Indian goods last year, New Delhi and Washington are currently working toward a trade agreement aimed at boosting bilateral commerce and avoiding further tariff escalations.

Wang told Tajani that China is prepared to work with Italy to unlock further “potential” in bilateral ties, signalling interest in deepening collaboration despite broader shifts in global trade dynamics.

China is open to expanding cooperation in areas including e-commerce, agriculture and food, healthcare and the development of industrial parks, the commerce ministry said, outlining sectors seen as key to future engagement.

The meeting reflects ongoing efforts by Beijing to sustain and diversify trade relationships with European partners, as global supply chains and geopolitical alignments continue to evolve.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news briefing that China is willing to work with North Korea to enhance exchanges and advance what she described as “traditional friendly and cooperative relations” between the two neighbors.

The visit comes as Beijing signals continued engagement with Pyongyang amid a complex regional security environment, where diplomatic alignments remain under close scrutiny.

Mao did not provide further details on the itinerary or specific agenda of Wang’s visit, but reiterated China’s commitment to maintaining stable and constructive ties with North Korea.

China has historically been North Korea’s closest ally and largest trading partner, playing a key role in diplomatic efforts on the Korean Peninsula.

The latest visit reflects ongoing efforts by Beijing to sustain high-level dialogue and reinforce its influence in the region.

Al-Sharaa met Starmer at 10 Downing Street, marking the first visit by a Syrian head of state to London since former president Bashar Assad traveled to the UK in 2002.According to a Downing Street spokesperson, discussions covered migration returns, border security and efforts to combat people-smuggling networks.

Starmer also welcomed steps taken by Damascus against Daesh, citing progress in counter-terrorism cooperation between the two countries.The talks also addressed broader regional stability concerns alongside economic cooperation.

The visit comes as Syria seeks foreign investment to rebuild infrastructure damaged during years of civil war. Al-Sharaa is expected to hold further meetings with senior British officials during his stay.

He was accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani and Economy Minister Nidal Al-Shaar.European outreach continuesAl-Sharaa arrived in London following a visit to Germany, where he met Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as part of a broader diplomatic push to re-engage European partners.

No specific agreements were announced following the London meeting.

The occasion marks the first state visit by a German president in nearly three decades and underscores a growing effort by both nations to reaffirm their relationship following the post-Brexit transition.

The British monarch, accompanied by Queen Camilla, greeted President Steinmeier and his wife Elke Büdenbender with full ceremonial honors. The warm reception set the tone for a visit designed to reinforce diplomatic, cultural and historical connections between the two countries.

The royal couple joined their guests in a carriage procession to Windsor Castle, accompanied by Prince William and Princess Kate, emphasizing the significance of the visit for the wider royal family.

This state visit mirrors the structure of other high-profile diplomatic engagements hosted by the UK this year, though it carries a distinctly European emphasis.

The broader context includes earlier visits by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, both of whom played roles in re-establishing momentum in UK–EU relations after the strains of Brexit.

Each visit reflects a shared commitment to deeper cooperation across security, trade, energy and cultural exchange.

Later in the day, President Steinmeier is scheduled to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street. Their discussions are expected to explore strategic areas of collaboration, including joint climate policies, European security frameworks and bilateral innovation partnerships.

The evening will conclude with a state banquet at Windsor Castle, offering another platform to affirm the longstanding friendship between the nations.

On Thursday, Steinmeier and his wife will visit the resting place of the late Queen Elizabeth II, honoring the legacy of a monarch who shaped modern British diplomacy.

They will also be shown the historic State Sleigh, a symbolic artifact crafted during the era of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, reflecting the deep historical ties between the British and German royal families.

During the visit, President Steinmeier will address members of the UK Parliament, highlighting democratic cooperation and shared values. He will also engage with German athletes currently playing in the Premier League, celebrating the cultural bridges that connect the two countries through sport, community and public life.

On Friday, the presidential couple will travel to Coventry, a city with poignant ties to German-British history. Coventry was heavily bombed during World War II, yet the city later became a symbol of reconciliation and peace. President Steinmeier will lay a wreath alongside the Duke of Kent at the ruins of the old cathedral, honoring the memory of both British and German lives affected by wartime devastation.

The ceremony echoes earlier gestures of remembrance, including recent commemorations of the bombing of Dresden.

The visit as a whole represents a positive reaffirmation of unity, shared heritage and future-focused cooperation. With both nations committed to strengthening ties across diplomacy, security and cultural exchange, the state visit marks a meaningful moment in the evolving relationship between the UK and Germany.

The events of the next three days are expected to build enduring foundations that support continued partnership and mutual understanding in an increasingly interconnected Europe.

The message was delivered in Riyadh to Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji by Bahraini Ambassador Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al-Khalifa, reflecting the warm, respectful and forward-looking relationship between the two brotherly nations.

The meeting celebrated the continued strength of Saudi-Bahraini ties, emphasizing their mutual determination to build on decades of collaboration, unity and shared vision for the Gulf region’s growth, security and prosperity.

Both officials engaged in meaningful discussions highlighting successful diplomatic exchanges, ongoing joint initiatives and new opportunities for bilateral development that align with each country’s long-term national goals.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain acknowledged the exceptional progress made through consistent cooperation, noting that the foundation of their relationship is built on trust, close coordination and a commitment to regional stability and advancement.

The message conveyed from Bahrain’s leadership reinforced the importance of maintaining an active, dynamic partnership that benefits their citizens and sets a positive example for cooperation across the Gulf.

During the discussions, both sides explored ways to expand strategic collaboration in areas such as economic investment, security coordination, trade development, digital innovation and cultural exchange.

They emphasized that comprehensive cooperation remains crucial for shaping a stronger, more resilient and interconnected region capable of meeting global challenges with unity and confidence.

The positive diplomatic engagement highlighted the value both nations place on their shared history and the promising future they are committed to building together in pursuit of stability, development and progress.

Saudi Arabia expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s dedication to strengthening relations, further confirming that aligned visions and mutual respect underpin the success of their ongoing partnership.

Economic cooperation took center stage as officials explored enhanced investment flows, large-scale development projects and business opportunities that create sustainable growth and align with the economic transformation plans of both nations.

By integrating economic ambitions and sharing expertise, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain aim to accelerate innovation, attract global investments and improve the well-being of their people through future-focused initiatives.

The meeting also underlined the importance of continued coordination within the Gulf Cooperation Council, which remains an essential platform for building unity, supporting shared priorities and reinforcing collective security across the region.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to contributing actively to GCC goals, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in achieving long-term regional strength.

The exchange of the message between leaders highlighted the spirit of fraternity that defines Saudi-Bahraini relations, representing not only diplomatic communication but a reaffirmation of shared cultural values, strategic alignment and genuine friendship.

Officials expressed confidence that renewed communication between leaders will encourage more collaboration, inspire new partnerships and support peace, cooperation and prosperity throughout the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain continue to serve as key pillars of regional stability, demonstrating how strong diplomatic relationships can promote economic growth, strengthen resilience and ensure security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Their commitment to mutual development plays a vital role in shaping the Gulf region’s future, with cooperation seen as essential for navigating global advancements and challenges.

As both countries pursue ambitious national visions, the reinforcement of diplomatic ties ensures that their shared journey remains focused on progress, collaboration and the well-being of their people across all fields.

This latest message exchange stands as a testament to the deeply rooted friendship between the two nations and their determination to build a future defined by unity, strength and shared achievement.

Organized by the Embassy of Japan, the event took place at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter and reflected the strong friendship, mutual respect, and deep cultural connection between the two nations.

The festival attracted a large and diverse audience, including government officials, diplomats, cultural figures, and business leaders, all of whom gathered to commemorate seven decades of fruitful partnership.

The event served as a cultural bridge, strengthening understanding between the Saudi and Japanese people and celebrating the shared values of innovation, tradition, and respect that have defined their bilateral relations.

Throughout the day, visitors experienced a fascinating blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. The festival featured a series of captivating performances, including Wadaiko drumming, which filled the venue with energy and rhythm, and Kabuki dance, a classical Japanese art form that combines graceful movement with expressive storytelling

. The soothing sounds of Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional string instrument, added an authentic touch that transported guests to the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Exhibits and workshops introduced visitors to Japanese crafts, calligraphy, origami, and ikebana (the art of flower arrangement), offering hands-on experiences that highlighted the artistry and precision deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

A special section of the festival showcased traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos and yukatas, allowing guests to explore the beauty and symbolism behind each garment.

Culinary enthusiasts enjoyed a taste of Japan through food stalls offering authentic dishes like sushi, ramen, and mochi, giving visitors a flavorful glimpse into Japan’s celebrated cuisine.

In addition to cultural displays, the festival also highlighted the growing economic and educational collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

An exhibition area featured several Japanese companies operating in the Kingdom, reflecting Japan’s active role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

These companies showcased their contributions to technology, renewable energy, and industrial innovation, reinforcing the strong economic partnership between the two nations.

Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari expressed his pride in the enduring relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, noting that their friendship has deepened through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared aspirations for development and peace. He emphasized that the 70th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a symbol of the new era of cooperation unfolding between the two countries.

Ambassador Yasunari also highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. He said that cultural exchange serves as a bridge that connects people on a deeper level, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Through events like the Japan Festival, both nations can continue to learn from one another and build enduring connections that go beyond economic and political collaboration.

The festival’s success reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing openness to global cultural exchange under Vision 2030, which encourages the development of arts, heritage, and international cooperation.

The Kingdom’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy aligns perfectly with Japan’s long-standing tradition of promoting peace and friendship through culture and education.

As visitors explored the festival’s exhibitions and performances, they witnessed the harmony between Japan’s rich traditions and modern innovation—a quality that resonates with Saudi Arabia’s own transformation journey. From art and music to technology and cuisine, the event showcased how both nations are balancing their cultural heritage with forward-looking progress.

The Japan Festival in Riyadh served as more than just a commemoration of diplomatic history—it became a celebration of friendship, creativity, and shared vision.

It reflected how two nations, despite geographical distance, are united by mutual respect, collaboration, and the desire to build a better future together.

By combining culture, education, and innovation, the festival strengthened the foundation for future cooperation and mutual growth, marking a new chapter in the ever-evolving relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Through events like this, Riyadh continues to affirm its role as a global center for cultural dialogue, welcoming the world to celebrate diversity, heritage, and the power of human connection.

In a ceremonious welcome, PM Modi was greeted with a 21-gun salute upon arrival. As his plane entered Saudi airspace, it was escorted by F15 fighter jets in a special gesture of respect and camaraderie. At the airport, the Prime Minister interacted warmly with Saudi officials and dignitaries.

A heartwarming cultural moment took place when Saudi singer Hashim Abbas passionately performed the Indian patriotic song ‘Ae Watan’ in PM Modi’s honor. “When I started singing, my friends told me that one day I would sing in front of PM Modi. I didn’t believe them… I love India. It is a great country led by the great leader, PM Narendra Modi,” Abbas told PTI.

Adding to the celebratory spirit, hundreds of members of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia gathered to welcome the Prime Minister. They greeted him with chants of “Modi, Modi” and showcased traditional cultural performances. Sharing photos from the event on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said the visit would “strengthen the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.”

The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors including defence, trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people ties.

Before departing from India, PM Modi emphasized the importance of India’s evolving relationship with Saudi Arabia. “India deeply values its long and historic ties with Saudi Arabia that have acquired strategic depth and momentum in recent years,” he said. “We have shared interest and commitment to promote regional peace, prosperity, security and stability.”

In an interview with Arab News ahead of the visit, PM Modi described Saudi Arabia as “one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally.”

This high-profile visit follows King Salman’s attendance at the G20 Summit in New Delhi last September, during which he co-chaired the first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council. Officials from both countries hope this visit will further solidify bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.