India and the US held the 2+2 dialogue between defense and foreign ministers on Friday to expand strategic ties. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, EAM S Jaishankar and their American counterparts discussed bolstering cooperation in critical minerals, high technology and Indo-Pacific security amid geopolitical challenges like Ukraine. Despite differences on Ukraine, strategic and security cooperation has advanced with the US viewing India as a counter to China. Key areas were Indo-Pacific, West Asia and Ukraine per Jaishankar. Singh called defense pivotal. Blinken emphasized jointly promoting an open Indo-Pacific. With momentum in ties, delivering for people amid global crises was important per Blinken. India-US ties have progressed despite global turbulence.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly acknowledged tensions with India, saying the relationship is going through a "difficult moment." Speaking after a G7 meeting, Joly said she was in close contact with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during this tough phase. Bilateral ties plunged in September when Canada alleged Indian agents killed a Sikh separatist, which India denied. After Canada expelled dozens of Indian diplomats invoking parity, Joly said their safety was at risk. However, she expressed confidence Canada and India would get through this difficult period given their longstanding relationship. EAM Jaishankar recently echoed they were in a difficult phase due to certain Canadian policies. Both sides acknowledged challenges but hoped to move past the diplomatic spat.

Canada Post has released a new Diwali stamp depicting traditional elements like toranas, marigold flowers and diyas. Designed by Kristine Do and Rena Chen, it features a vibrant background of purple-blue with warm orange, yellow, green and white. The $5.52 stamp is meant to mark Diwali celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. This is the 5th Diwali stamp from Canada Post since 2017. Diwali celebrations also took place in Ottawa, including an event at Parliament Hill attended by opposition leader Pierre Poilievre. Co-hosted by MP Todd Doherty, it was the 23rd Parliament Hill Diwali event, started in 2000 by late MP Deepak Obhrai. Poilievre tweeted it was a wonderful celebration of light over darkness.

India is forging closer economic ties with Taiwan by planning to send up to 100,000 workers there as early as next month, senior officials say, a move that risks angering neighbor China. The workers would fill labor shortages in Taiwan's aging society across factories, farms and hospitals. But the deal would increase tensions with China, which claims Taiwan and has a disputed border with India. While India hasn't ditched its "One China" policy, it has fostered an active unofficial relationship with Taiwan. India's foreign ministry confirmed negotiations are in final stages, though health certification mechanisms are still being resolved.

Canadian officials are investigating threats against Air India after videos surfaced of a Sikh separatist leader warning against flying with the airline. The threats came from Sikhs for Justice head Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Canada's transportation minister said they take all aviation threats seriously. India has raised the issue with Canada, condemning such terrorist threats. The warnings are reminiscent of the 1985 Air India bombing that killed 329 people. Indian intelligence views the threats seriously despite doubts over the group's capacity.

Canadian officials say they are taking "extremely seriously" an online threat against Air India flights made by the secessionist group SfJ's General counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. In a video posted online, Pannun told Sikhs not to fly Air India starting November 19th over safety fears. Canada has informed India that security measures have been enhanced for Air India flights operating in Canadian airports. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police is actively investigating the threats. Indian authorities denounced the threats as criminal intent. Air India runs multiple direct flights per week between Canada and India. The warning evokes memories of the 1985 bombing of an Air India flight that killed 329 people. Canada remains committed to aviation security.

First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford revealed a new 'Year of Wales in India 2024' initiative at a Diwali celebration aimed at strengthening ties between Wales and India's fast-growing economy. Launching around St David's Day, it will deepen economic and cultural links with events planned in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The First Minister was joined by Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh at the event which was organised by Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal. Mr Aggarwal said it will focus on trade, education, culture and health. With over 2,200 Indian students in Wales bringing £200m revenue, he called it a great opportunity to boost cooperation. The event was also attended by representatives from major Indian companies based in Wales, as well as a number of start-up ventures.

At least 10 Indian-Americans, mostly Democrats, won local and state elections across the US this week, reflecting the growing political power of the ethnic community. Key victories included Ghazala Hashmi's re-election to the Virginia State Senate, Neil Makhija becoming the first Indian-American commissioner in Pennsylvania, and Arunan Arulampalam being elected Hartford Mayor in Connecticut. The candidates pledged to work for their constituents after their historic victories. (Image Courtesy: Neil Makhija on X)

India has filed an appeal against the death penalty handed to eight former Indian Navy personnel by a Qatari court last month. The officers were arrested in Qatar in 2021 while working for a private firm providing services to Qatar's military. India said it is shocked by the verdict and has appealed, though case details remain confidential. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India is in touch with the officers' families and will provide legal and consular support. The officers include decorated commanders who captained major Indian warships.

African-American singer Mary Millben praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the "best leader" for India and the India-US relationship. In the lead up to India's 2024 election, Millben said Modi stands for women and global economic stability. She called for a courageous woman in Bihar to run for Chief Minister after Nitish Kumar's controversial remarks about women's education and population control. Millben, who observed a Karwa Chauth fast, has previously praised India's traditions and said she closely follows Indian affairs because she loves India. She believes Modi is the leader India needs.