India has yet to decide on Bangladesh's request for a meeting between interim leader Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN General Assembly in New York later this month. Yunus, who criticized former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and India's handling of her exile, made the request earlier this week. The Indian side is reportedly cautious due to Yunus's recent comments, which were poorly received in New Delhi. Modi's schedule for bilateral meetings is still being finalized, and Yunus's remarks may affect the prospects of the meeting.

In a significant development, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has publicly acknowledged the army's involvement in the 1999 Kargil War with India, marking the first such admission in 25 years. During a Defence Day speech, General Munir referenced the Kargil conflict, where Pakistani troops had infiltrated Indian territory in Kargil. Previously, Pakistan had denied direct military involvement, referring to the fighters as “freedom fighters” or “mujahideen.” The acknowledgment has sparked discussion online, with critics and former officials revisiting past denials and the controversial nature of the operation.

A Vistara flight from Mumbai to Frankfurt was diverted to Turkey's Erzurum airport on Friday due to a security concern. Sources indicate a bomb threat was discovered in a written message in one of the aircraft's lavatories. The Boeing 787 aircraft landed safely and relevant authorities were alerted. Vistara is cooperating with security agencies to complete mandatory checks. The safety and security of passengers, crew, and aircraft remain the airline's top priority. An investigation is underway.

Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh's interim government, has addressed concerns about the country's stability amid recent attacks on minority Hindus. Yunus stated that these incidents are "more political than communal" and criticized India for its portrayal of the situation. He firmly rejected the idea that Bangladesh could become like Afghanistan without Sheikh Hasina's leadership, urging India to focus on enhancing bilateral relations rather than spreading such narratives. Yunus assured that the Bangladeshi government is actively addressing the issue and managing the situation. His comments come as part of efforts to counteract negative perceptions and reinforce the country's commitment to maintaining stability and addressing political tensions.

Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, has criticized Sheikh Hasina’s statements made from India, calling them an "unfriendly gesture." Yunus stated, “There is discomfort in Bangladesh over Hasina’s remarks from India,” and added, “If India wants to keep her until the time Bangladesh wants her back, the condition would be that she has to keep quiet.” He emphasized that the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India are now at a low. Yunus also called for Hasina's return to Bangladesh for trial, urging India to improve its stance on political narratives.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed India, China, and Brazil as potential mediators for peace talks in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict. This suggestion follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kyiv, where he reiterated India's commitment to peaceful resolution. Putin emphasized that Russia is open to negotiations based on the 2022 Istanbul talks, which were never implemented. The proposal highlights Modi’s diplomatic influence and India's growing role in global peace initiatives.

Traders are rushing to offload Maldives' Islamic bonds as the risk of default grows. The dollar-denominated sukuk due in 2026 dropped below 70 cents, hitting a record low. The Bank of Maldives has capped foreign currency spending, and Fitch has issued its second downgrade since June. "Without a last-minute foreign exchange infusion from China, the GCC, or India, the non-payment of the October coupon is a plausible scenario," said Purvi Harlalka, an emerging-market strategist. The Maldives Monetary Authority is negotiating a $400 million currency swap with India, but reserves remain critically low.

India and Singapore have elevated their relationship to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Modi held talks with Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, leading to the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in semiconductors, digital technologies, healthcare, and skill development. The leaders reviewed progress in trade, defence, and technology cooperation, with a focus on future growth. Singapore is a major investor in India, with over $160 billion in investments. Modi invited Wong to visit India, which he accepted. The visit strengthens India's Act East policy and the two nations' bilateral ties.

A 14-year-old boy appeared in Leicester Youth Court, charged with the murder of 80-year-old Indian-origin man Bhim Kohli, who was fatally attacked while walking his dog in Braunstone Town, UK. Kohli, a beloved family man, passed away from a neck injury sustained during the attack. Four other children, aged 12 to 14, were arrested but released without further action. Kohli's family expressed heartbreak, recalling him as a loving and active individual. The case remains under investigation, with Leicestershire Police offering support to the grieving family.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Singapore, visited AEM Holdings Ltd, a leading semiconductor and electronics company, with Singapore PM Lawrence Wong. The leaders discussed collaboration opportunities in the critical industry, exploring ways to strengthen ties in advanced manufacturing. Modi was briefed on the company's global semiconductor value chain, operations, and India plans. The visit aims to enhance cooperation between India and Singapore in the semiconductor sector, a key area of focus for India's economic growth and technological advancement. The meeting marked a significant step towards deepening bilateral ties.