External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed confidence that the incoming Trump administration will continue to back the Quad, the diplomatic group comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the US, which aims to ensure a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Jaishankar credited Trump for the revival and upgrades of the Quad during his first term, including its move from vice-ministerial to foreign ministerial level, as well as the 2020 summit held despite global lockdowns. He added that Trump’s efforts were key to the Quad’s growth, with subsequent upgrades under the Biden administration. Jaishankar also discussed the ongoing challenges in India-China relations following the Ladakh border conflict, despite recent disengagement efforts.
REPORTS SUGGESTS SYRIAN PRESIDENT’S FAMILY FLEES
As the Syrian Civil War intensifies, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s family, including his wife Asma and their children, reportedly fled to Russia. His brothers-in-law are said to have gone to the UAE. The Syrian president’s location is uncertain, with conflicting reports suggesting he may be in Iran. Syrian forces have lost control of significant cities, including Daraa, to local armed factions. Countries like India, the US, and Russia have urged their citizens to leave Syria. With Assad’s forces in retreat, the future of Syria remains uncertain amid growing calls for a government-in-exile.
DECEMBER 21 DECLARED AS WORLD MEDITATION DAY
The United Nations has declared December 21 as World Meditation Day, co-sponsored by India and other nations including Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Mexico. India’s permanent representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, highlighted that the date aligns with the beginning of Uttarayan in Indian tradition and offers a perfect moment for inner reflection. The resolution aims to promote meditation as a practice for improving overall well-being, reducing stress, and fostering harmony between mind and body. The move follows India’s successful leadership in establishing International Yoga Day in 2014.
NETANYAHU SLAMS AUSTRALIAN GOVT OVER SYNAGOGUE ATTACK
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the Australian government’s stance on Israel, linking it to a synagogue arson attack in Melbourne. Netanyahu accused the Australian Labor government of fostering “anti-Israel sentiment” after Australia’s vote at the UN General Assembly supporting a resolution to end Israel’s presence in Palestinian territories. The arson attack, which occurred in Australia, left the synagogue gutted but caused no serious injuries. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack, vowing to fight anti-Semitism, while Netanyahu called for a stronger response to prevent future incidents.
ROMANIA’S COURT CANCELS PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION RESULTS
Romania’s Constitutional Court has annulled the results of the first round of the 2024 presidential election, which was narrowly won by far-right candidate Calin Georgescu. This decision follows allegations of Russian interference, including cyberattacks and manipulation on social media platforms. Georgescu, who garnered 22.9% of the vote, had risen to prominence despite starting with low support. His centrist rival, Elena Lasconi, had 19.2%. The court’s ruling cancels the scheduled second-round runoff and requires the Romanian government to restart the electoral process.
