At a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised the European Union for stalling its membership bid, citing Islamophobia as a key reason. He contrasted this with BRICS, which he praised for its inclusivity. Despite expressing interest, Türkiye has not been offered BRICS membership. Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to balancing relations between East and West while maintaining NATO obligations. This statement underscores Türkiye’s evolving foreign policy and efforts to diversify economic and diplomatic alliances.
UK-INDIA TRADE TALKS SET TO RESUME AFTER AN YEAR
UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has arrived in New Delhi to restart negotiations on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Talks, which began in 2022, have progressed with 19 out of 26 chapters finalized but remain stalled on key issues like migration, tariffs, and agriculture. India seeks better market access and reduced trade barriers, while the UK aims for increased economic collaboration. With India projected to become the third-largest economy by 2028, both nations are eager to finalize the deal and boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.
EU PLEDGES €3.5B FOR UKRAINE AID PACKAGE
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv for the ninth time since Russia’s invasion, announcing a €3.5 billion aid package to support Ukraine’s economy and military. The funds are an advance from the EU’s €50 billion Ukraine Facility. Amid rising tensions over U.S.-Russia negotiations, von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. Western leaders, including Spain’s Pedro Sánchez and Canada’s Justin Trudeau, also pledged further support. While financial assistance is secured for 2025, Europe faces challenges in maintaining arms supplies, prompting von der Leyen to push for increased EU defence production.
MISCREANTS ATTACK BANGLADESH AIR FORCE BASE
A violent altercation broke out at the Bangladesh Air Force base in Cox’s Bazar, triggered by a land dispute between Air Force personnel and residents. The conflict escalated, leading to an attack by miscreants, resulting in the death of 30-year-old trader Shihab Kabir, who suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Several others sustained injuries in the chaos. The Bangladesh Air Force has condemned the attack and initiated an investigation to identify those responsible. Authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of casualties as tensions remain high in the region.
GERMANY’S NEW CHANCELLOR SIGNALS NATO POLICY SHIFT
Germany’s incoming chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has called for Europe to strengthen its defense, questioning NATO’s future amid U.S. indifference toward European security. His remarks, made after Germany’s election, highlight a shift in transatlantic relations, with Merz advocating for European military independence. He hinted at forming a European nuclear umbrella with the UK and France if the U.S. withdraws its military presence. Germany’s growing unease stems from potential Russian threats and the far-right AfD’s push for disengagement from Ukraine. The election results mark a pivotal moment in Germany’s leadership role in European security.
