Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Ukraine in August, his first trip since the Russian invasion in 2022. The visit follows a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the G7 Summit in Italy. Zelensky had invited Modi after his re-election. Modi had earlier discussed strengthening India-Ukraine ties and resolving the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy in a phone call with Zelensky in March. The visit aims to boost bilateral relations and showcase India's commitment to peace. Modi's trip is significant as India has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

India has dropped to 82nd place on the Henley Passport Index, with citizens having visa-free access to only 58 destinations. This decline has sparked interest in global investment migration among Indian high-net-worth families. Key drivers include securing contingency plans, enhancing visa-free travel, and accessing top educational institutions abroad for their children. With 4,300 millionaires expected to leave India in 2024, the country's affluent are strategically investing in countries with robust educational infrastructure to protect their wealth and secure their children's future. This trend highlights India's diminishing global mobility and its impact on the nation's wealthy elite.

India has secured operational rights for a terminal at Mongla port in Bangladesh, according to reports. The terminal will be managed by Indian Port Global Limited (IPGL). This move is seen as part of India's efforts to expand its global port presence and counter China's growing influence. The deal follows the joint inauguration of the Khulna-Mongla Port rail line by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2023. The development highlights strengthening ties between the two nations, but the Indian government has not officially confirmed the agreement.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meetings in Vientiane. Jaishankar emphasized that the state of the border would reflect the state of bilateral ties. He urged China to fully respect the Line of Actual Control and past agreements. The talks came amid the ongoing border dispute in eastern Ladakh, which began in 2020. Jaishankar stressed the need for urgent action to stabilize relations and complete the disengagement process. His visit highlights India's commitment to ASEAN and the importance of regional cooperation.

India responded to US concerns over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia, emphasizing the freedom of choice in a multipolar world. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted India's longstanding relationship with Russia based on mutual interests. US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu expressed disappointment over the visit's timing, coinciding with Russia's attack on a Ukrainian hospital. Despite this, India noted the decline in its defense imports from Russia and stressed that bilateral ties are essential. PM Modi's visit marked 75 years of diplomatic relations, and he was awarded the Order of St Andrew the Apostle by President Putin.

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has called on Canada to act decisively against anti-India elements following a video by Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatening Indian-origin MP Chandra Arya and Indians in Canada. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that Canada should respond to these threats with the same seriousness as it did with recent threats against Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Relations between India and Canada remain tense, exacerbated by recent acts of vandalism at a Hindu temple in Edmonton by Khalistani supporters.

The US State Department has updated its travel advisory for India, placing the country at Level 2, advising their citizens to exercise increased caution. Certain areas have been designated as Level 4, including Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border, Manipur, and parts of Central and East India, due to terrorism, violence, and armed conflict. Americans are advised not to travel to these areas. The northeastern states have been placed under Level 3, recommending reconsideration of travel plans. The advisory provides specific guidance for US citizens traveling to or residing in India.

A disturbing incident of racial aggression has sparked outrage in Canada after a viral video showed an elderly Sikh man being harassed and followed by a man in a park. The accused, whose face is hidden, is heard making annoying voices and ignoring the victim's pleas to be left alone. The Sikh man almost fell while trying to escape. The incident has ignited widespread condemnation, with calls for justice and increased awareness about the rising harassment and racial attacks. Authorities are urged to take swift action against the perpetrator.

India and the UK have launched the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) to boost their strategic partnership. The initiative focuses on collaboration in key areas such as telecommunications, critical minerals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum, biotechnology, and advanced materials. The TSI aims to enhance research and development, promote trade and investment, and share best practices. This partnership is part of the India-UK Roadmap 2030, prioritizing cooperation in critical and emerging technologies across various sectors. The initiative strengthens bilateral ties and addresses growing technological advancements in national security and economic growth.

Bangladesh has objected to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's offer to provide 'Shelter' to refugees from the country. At a July 21 rally, Banerjee said her government would give shelter to those fleeing violence in Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh warned that terrorists might exploit such an offer. The Indian government has not yet responded. Banerjee cited a UN resolution on respecting refugees, but Bangladesh sees the offer as potentially harmful. This development highlights tensions between the regions and raises questions about refugee policies and international cooperation. The issue remains unresolved, awaiting further action from the Indian government.