BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: What China is learning from the Middle-East war
The Gulf conflict is throwing up economic challenges for China. But it is also putting it at an advantage when it comes to intelligence gathering and influence-building in the Middle-East
BUSINESS
India, China can play a key role to resolve Iran crisis
Scores of countries are watching helplessly as the Middle-East conflict is causing them economic losses and endangering world peace. In this situation, India and China, two biggest oil buyers, are best placed to create a climate that would result in peace negotiations to bring about de-escalation and save the oil fields from drones and missiles
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: China’s Two Sessions ready to sacrifice speed for 'high quality' development
China has opted for a low growth target because it wants to focus on 'industries of the future', increase domestic demand, and sharply raise the per capita income. Whether it will succeed will depend on its ability to deal with an ongoing property market crisis and external challenges like the feared rise in oil prices
BUSINESS
Has Khamenei’s death opened the door to US dominance in Middle-East?
The US has battered Iran but forcing a regime change may not be easy. Ensuring US control over Iranian oil infrastructure would be even more difficult. But US influence over the Middle-East is bound to grow as the region’s governments look at Washington for protection from Iran
BUSINESS
The multiple ramifications of a US attack on Iran
A US attack on Iran may unsettle the Middle-East and shoot oil prices up, affecting the global economy. US President Donald Trump has indicated he is ready to wait 10 days if Iran agrees to a nuclear deal. But US military actions, including marshalling aircraft carriers and missile launchers, suggest it is ready to strike any day
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: From critic to partner? BNP's win tests India's ability to turn the page in Dhaka
The rise of BNP and end of the Yunus-led caretaker government is a good opportunity to improve India-Bangladesh relations. But there are several hurdles including resistance from the pro-Pakistan Jamaat e Islami, which is extremely critical of India
BUSINESS
Why India teamed up with US to gain access to critical minerals
India has decided to join a partnership with the US to develop rare earth resources and counter China’s dominance in this sector. The move may upset China. But India needs to develop its own sources which is best done by participating in a group of nations pooling in their resources
POLITICS
The Eastern Window: Xi Jinping’s move to sack top generals shows divisions in military leadership
Chinese President Xi Jinping has consciously taken major risks by sacking two top generals, including the vice chairman of Central Military Commission. What motivated him is unclear through there are unconfirmed reports of a failed coup. India needs to use the opportunity to restructure its relations with China
BUSINESS
Is Trump going soft on China while targeting US allies?
Trump administration’s defence policy document has caused major surprises because it targets US allies while talking about restraint and understanding in dealings with China
BUSINESS
India’s presidency of BRICS offers both threats and opportunities
India will try to promote the developmental aspects of BRICS instead of framing it as an anti-Western gathering. But it will participate in the group’s efforts to bring about a multi-polar world. The recent US-EU tussle will help BRICS’ campaign
POLITICS
US looking for a suitable leader who can replace Khamenei in Iran
The Khamenei regime has failed to check economic chaos, leading to nationwide protests. But no alternative leadership seems to be emerging
BUSINESS
Jaishankar’s funeral diplomacy sets constructive tone for healthy ties with Bangladesh
India has shown its readiness to respect Bangladesh’s choice of a new leader though Sheikh Hasina continues to live in India. Khaleda Zia’s recent death might help her party, BNP, in the February 12 elections. With Jamaat trying to attract some of Awami League’s vote back, the battle of the ballot is getting fierce
WORLD
Eastern Window | Japan, South Korea enter arms race, threatening stability in North Asia
Countries in North Asia like China, Japan, South Korea, and North Korea are engaged in an intense arms race with efforts to acquire nuclear weapons. Such moves amid US-China rival may threaten the stability of the region
POLITICS
The Eastern Window: Pakistan under stress test as US pushes it to join Gaza plan
US efforts to involve Pakistan in the Gaza peace plan have wide-ranging implications. India needs to watch the situation closely
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window | India has emerged as a hot political issue in Bangladesh elections
With no clear winner emerging in the pre-election scenario in Bangladesh, the competing parties are focusing their attention on criticising India to garner votes
BUSINESS
India's new Russia agreements hinge on Ukraine peace
India and Russia entered into significant agreements outside the traditional military sphere during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit last week. But some of the deals—including energy supplies and transfer of military technology—may be difficult to implement if the Ukraine peace talks fail
BUSINESS
Trump’s intensified immigration policy may face judicial, economic hurdles
US President Donald Trump has extended the scope of his anti-migrant policy, leveraging a shooting incident. Whether it will do any economic good for the US is questionable
BUSINESS
Putin's Delhi Visit: How a fighter jet deal could redraw geopolitical lines
President Putin's visit to India marks a strategic turning point, with a landmark technology transfer deal that strengthens India's hand against China and the West
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: The New Tech Cold War -- China answers Trump with a blitz of innovation
In the months since Donald Trump's return to the White House, China has unleashed a flurry of technological claims, signalling a bold strategy to break its reliance on the U.S. and seize the global innovation lead
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: Amid political uncertainty in Bangladesh, India faces tough choices
Politicians in Bangladesh are wading through troubled waters. The elections, if held as planned in February 2026, are unlikely to throw up a clear winner. The National Citizens Party formed this February by rebel student leaders is yet to make an impact. India may consider cultivating relationship with BNP leader Tarique Rahman if it does not want to see the pro-Pakistan Jamaat e Islami in power
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window: What are the risk factors in the US-China truce, and will it last?
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window | Beyond the Handshake: Why a US-China trade deal may not end their strategic rivalry
The US and China are close to signing an agreement to resolve a range of trade differences between them. If successful, the deal will have far-reaching implications on the global supply chain, and the economies of several countries including India
TECHNOLOGY
Which nation will lead in the technologies that define the 21st century: US or China?
Though a late starter, China is pushing ahead in the race to develop and use critical technologies like AI, drones, robots, electric vehicles and quantum communications. The Trump administration’s immigration policy can put at risk American dominance in several technology areas, giving an edge to China
BUSINESS
The Eastern Window | China's 15th five-year plan: Navigating growth amid global challenges
China’s next 5-year plan will focus on tackling the tariff challenge from the US and resolving domestic issues like weak consumer demand. But it will not be easy for President Xi Jinping because some of the much-needed reforms can result in job losses and damage to the Communist Party’s credibility
