Philippines–Japan Security Pivot: Manila and Tokyo agreed to start formal talks on a General Security of Military Information Agreement and to delimit maritime borders, as both frame the move around rising China-linked maritime pressure. South China Sea Pushback: The Netherlands said a Dutch frigate was forced away near the Paracels after China used electronic warfare, underscoring widening international resistance to Beijing’s “nine-dash line.” China–Serbia Investment Drive: Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic wrapped up a China visit saying new Chinese investments in Serbia could reach hundreds of millions of euros, with a focus on tech and robotics. China–Myanmar Mekong Projects: Beijing and Myanmar signed cooperation on 2026 Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund projects, aimed at “small but beautiful” development work. India Exam Logistics: India’s government is weighing Indian Air Force logistics support for the NEET-UG retest after a paper leak, with planning described as a fast, whole-of-government effort. India–Korea Trade Talks: India and South Korea held the 12th round of CEPA upgrade talks in New Delhi, addressing trade-in-goods and services and the widening India deficit. AI Curriculum Overhaul: India’s government and industry are moving to revamp AI education toward practical, credit-linked learning with stronger governance across semesters. China–EU Consumer Crackdown: The EU fined Temu €200m over allegedly dangerous products, adding to pressure on Chinese e-commerce compliance. Japan Domestic Politics: A smear scandal involving Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi’s team deepened, raising concerns about political ethics and policy direction.