US–China Diplomacy: Xi’s Washington visit delivered an eight-point consensus, including a $30bn tariff-reduction arrangement and a new AI dialogue, plus plans for a trade council. Japan–US Security Posture: Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi said a phone call with Trump reaffirmed close Japan-US coordination on China-related economic and security issues. UNGA—Terror and Maritime Pressure: India’s Jaishankar told the UN it will defend itself against terrorism and called attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers “simply unacceptable,” urging restraint amid West Asia conflict. UNGA—Pakistan Clash: Jaishankar directly rebutted Pakistan’s UN claims, warning against attempts to normalise terrorism and stressing accountability for state-backed terror. India–Gulf Cooperation: GCC Secretary-General Albudaiwi said GCC-India ties are accelerating, with GCC-India FTA talks underway and cooperation priorities spanning energy, tech, and counter-terrorism. India Domestic Politics: India’s Election Commission SIR row intensified as opposition pushed for CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s removal while the BJP and allies defended the commission’s unanimous decisions. Climate and Food Security: Maharashtra declared drought across 74% of the state after monsoon shortfalls, raising risks for farmers and rural livelihoods. Tech and Industry: A report highlighted widening US-China gaps in EV charging speed, with China demonstrating much faster range gains than typical US public stations. Regional Watch—Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s envoy Riaz Hamidullah described India ties as “organic” and urged continued engagement despite differences.