international relations 7 - The Latremie Post

Rajnath to visit Morocco, first by any Indian Defence Minister

**Rajnath Singh to Visit Morocco: First Indian Defence Minister to Do So**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 02:54 PM*

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Morocco beginning September 22. Marking a historic milestone, this will be the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister to the North African nation.

### Strengthening Strategic Ties

The visit aims to bolster strategic ties between India and Morocco, with a special emphasis on enhancing defense cooperation and industrial collaboration. One of the highlights of the trip will be the inauguration of Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility in Berrechid, dedicated to the production of the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8.

### A Milestone for India’s Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid plant stands as the first Indian defense manufacturing unit on African soil. This achievement aligns with India’s *Aatmanirbhar Bharat* initiative and underscores the growing global footprint of India’s defense industry.

Invited by Morocco’s Minister Delegate of National Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, Rajnath Singh’s visit cements the significance of deepening bilateral relations between the two countries.

### Key Strategic Discussions and Agreements

During the visit, Singh will engage in bilateral talks with Minister Loudiyi focusing on expanding defense cooperation and strategic partnerships. He is also likely to meet Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to discuss avenues for enhanced industrial collaboration.

A major expected outcome of the visit is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation. This agreement will pave the way for formal exchanges, training programs, and stronger industrial linkages between India and Morocco.

### Growing Diplomatic and Maritime Cooperation

India-Morocco relations have seen significant momentum since 2015 following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Mohammed VI. Rajnath Singh’s visit is anticipated to inject renewed energy into this partnership, particularly within defense and strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) also highlighted that Indian Navy ships have made regular port calls at Casablanca in recent years. The new agreement is expected to further consolidate maritime cooperation between the two nations.

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This landmark visit by Rajnath Singh underscores India’s expanding role in global defense partnerships and strengthens its ties with Morocco, fostering cooperation across defense, industrial, and maritime domains.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/rajnath-to-inaugurate-tasl-armored-vehicle-unit-during-morocco-visit/story

“Donald Trump made the deal with the Taliban” – Martina Navratilova criticizes US President over airfield move in Afghanistan

Martina Navratilova has responded to Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the United States’ efforts to negotiate a takeover of Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan.

The former tennis champion shared her thoughts on the development, highlighting the potential implications of U.S. involvement in the region. Navratilova’s reaction adds a unique perspective to the ongoing discussions about Afghanistan’s strategic sites and international relations.

As the situation unfolds, public figures like Navratilova continue to voice their opinions, shedding light on the broader impact of such political decisions.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/tennis/news-donald-trump-made-deal-taliban-martina-navratilova-criticizes-us-president-airfield-move-afghanistan

Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact Shifts Middle East Security, Ties Riyadh To Beijing

The announcement of a mutual defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan could have consequences far beyond the perception of the House of Saud simply buying extra insurance against a possible Israeli attack.

The pact was revealed just days after Israel’s strike on Qatar—an event that underscored the fragility of American guarantees to its allies. This incident compelled Riyadh to expand an earlier agreement with Islamabad, which had allowed the use of Pakistani forces on Saudi soil.

By turning to Islamabad, and by extension Beijing, to underwrite its defence, Saudi Arabia raises some uncomfortable questions: If even Riyadh no longer trusts American protection, can anyone else?

For decades, Saudi Arabia has been viewed as the quintessential American client state—a kingdom where oil flowed in dollars, American arms ensured security, and Washington’s word carried the weight of strategic reassurance.

### A Sweeping Defence Agreement

The new pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is sweeping in scope. A senior Saudi official told Al Jazeera that it is a “comprehensive defensive agreement that encompasses all military means.” This suggests that Saudi Arabia may now be covered under Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal—an arsenal that does not adhere to a “no first use” doctrine.

By extension, this development implies that West Asia now has two opposing nuclear-backed blocs: Israel and the United States on one side, and Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on the other.

### Broader Geopolitical Implications

The ripple effects of the pact extend far beyond the Middle East.

Pakistan sources the overwhelming majority of its weaponry from China. By binding its security to Pakistan’s defence umbrella, Saudi Arabia is effectively tethering itself to the Chinese military-industrial complex.

This carries significant ramifications. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Beijing’s flagship Belt and Road project, may now gain a de facto extension to the Persian Gulf. This extension provides China with an energy lifeline that bypasses the Strait of Malacca—a chokepoint long considered vulnerable.

### A Strategic Conundrum for India

India finds itself in a strategic bind. Its most vital energy supplier, Saudi Arabia, has entrusted its security to Pakistan—India’s arch-enemy.

It remains to be seen how New Delhi will reconcile this with the planned India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, a signature initiative intended as a counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road project.

### The Future of Global Energy and Currency

Lastly, there is an important financial dimension. The Saudi-American bargain of the past half-century was built on oil priced in dollars and underwritten by U.S. military protection.

With Saudi Arabia outsourcing its protection to Islamabad, and indirectly to Beijing, the privileged role of the U.S. dollar in global energy markets looks increasingly precarious.

If the Suez Crisis of 1956 symbolized the eclipse of European empires, the Saudi-Pakistan pact may come to be remembered as the moment when America’s unipolar dominance of the world began to fray.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/analysis/saudi-pakistan-defence-pact-shifts-middle-east-security-ties-riyadh-to-beijing

‘Pakistan felt like home’: Congress’s Sam Pitroda bats for talks

**’Pakistan Felt Like Home’: Congress’s Sam Pitroda Bats for Talks**
*By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 19, 2025 | 01:23 PM*

Sam Pitroda, a prominent Congress leader and chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, has called for a shift in India’s foreign policy to focus on strengthening ties with neighboring countries. Emphasizing cultural and social connections, he urged a renewed engagement with countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

“Our foreign policy, according to me, must first focus on our neighborhood. Can we really substantially improve relationships with our neighbors? I’ve been to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and I feel at home,” Pitroda remarked.

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### Political Backlash

Pitroda’s comments have sparked sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari called him “Rahul Gandhi’s blue-eyed boy and Congress Overseas chief,” highlighting his statement about feeling “at home” in Pakistan as controversial. Bhandari also criticized the then United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for allegedly taking no tough action against Pakistan after the 26/11 attacks.

Shehzad Poonawalla, BJP national spokesperson, also targeted Pitroda and the Congress party, alleging they harbor an “undying love” for Pakistan. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Poonawalla said, “They give clean chit to Pak on 26/11, Samjhauta, Pulwama and Pahalgam. They give 80% water to Pak under IWT! They love Pakistan! INC is Islamabad National Congress. Sam Pitroda who divides Indians & stays in US away from India finds a home in Pakistan! Is anyone surprised?”

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### Previous Controversies

This is not the first time Pitroda has attracted political controversy for his views on foreign policy. Earlier this year, in February, he suggested that India tends to exaggerate the threat from China and advocated for a more collaborative approach with Beijing.

“Our approach has been confrontational from the very beginning, and this attitude creates enemies, which in turn garners support within the country. We need to change this mindset and stop assuming that China is the enemy from day one,” Pitroda said, sparking debate on India’s stance towards China.

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Sam Pitroda’s recent remarks continue to fuel the ongoing discourse over India’s foreign relations strategy, particularly in the context of its neighbors and regional diplomacy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/pakistan-felt-like-home-sam-pitroda-bats-for-talks/story

‘Pakistan felt like home’: Congress’s Sam Pitroda bats for talks

**‘Pakistan felt like home’: Congress’s Sam Pitroda Bats for Talks**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 19, 2025, 01:23 pm*

Sam Pitroda, a prominent Congress leader and chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, has called for a shift in India’s foreign policy to prioritize improving relations with neighboring countries. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cultural and social ties with these nations.

### Political Backlash

Pitroda’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari condemned the comments, stating, “Rahul Gandhi’s blue-eyed boy and Congress Overseas chief Sam Pitroda says he ‘felt at home’ in Pakistan.” He further criticized the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for allegedly failing to take tough action against Pakistan following the 26/11 attacks.

Shehzad Poonawalla, BJP national spokesperson, also targeted Pitroda and the Congress, accusing them of harboring an “undying love” for Pakistan. Writing on X, Poonawalla said, “They give clean chit to Pak on 26/11, Samjhauta, Pulwama and Pahalgam. They give 80% water to Pak under IWT! They love Pakistan! INC is Islamabad National Congress. Sam Pitroda, who divides Indians & stays in US away from India, finds a home in Pakistan! Is anyone surprised?”

### Previous Controversies

This is not the first time Pitroda has sparked political controversy with his statements. In February, he suggested that India exaggerates the threat posed by China and advocated for a collaborative approach rather than viewing Beijing as an adversary.

As debates continue around India’s foreign policy approach, Pitroda’s calls for engagement with neighbors remain a contentious issue in the political landscape.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/pakistan-felt-like-home-sam-pitroda-bats-for-talks/story

International Olympic Committee rejects Spanish calls to expel Israel

**International Olympic Committee Rejects Spanish Calls to Expel Israel from 2026 Olympics**

The Spanish Prime Minister recently called for Israeli teams to be barred from participating in the 2026 Olympic Games, citing the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict as the reason for this demand. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially rejected these calls, emphasizing the importance of keeping politics separate from sports and allowing all qualified athletes to compete.

At the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games, Israel was proudly represented by flag bearers Romi Paritzki and Tom Reuveny, showcasing the country’s commitment to the Olympic spirit despite the current tensions.

*(Photo credit: Rob Schumacher/USA Today Sports)*

By JERUSALEM POST SPORTS STAFF
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/sports/article-868003

PM Modi conveys India is ready to support Nepal as protests eases

**PM Narendra Modi Holds Telephonic Talk with Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki Amid Recent Protests**

Nepal has recently witnessed intense protests led by the Gen Z movement, which resulted in significant turmoil and unfortunate loss of lives. However, the situation now appears to be stabilizing. In the wake of these developments, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation on Thursday with Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki.

According to an official statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi extended his condolences for the tragic loss of lives during the protests. He assured Nepal of India’s readiness to work closely towards strengthening the special ties between the two countries. Furthermore, he conveyed India’s full support for Nepal’s efforts to restore peace, stability, and progress for its people, as reported by news agency ANI.

The MEA statement also highlighted that the Prime Minister congratulated Prime Minister Karki on her appointment and conveyed best wishes on behalf of the Government and people of India. It emphasized the strong commitment of both nations to fostering close cooperation during this critical time.

Responding to this, Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Karki thanked PM Modi for India’s unwavering support and reciprocated the desire to further strengthen bilateral relations. She emphasized the importance of accountable, responsive, and corruption-free governance, particularly reflecting the aspirations of Nepal’s youth.

On a cordial note, PM Modi extended felicitations on the occasion of Nepal’s upcoming National Day. Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact moving forward.

In a statement from Nepal’s Foreign Ministry, PM Karki also conveyed her heartfelt greetings and best wishes to PM Modi on his 75th birthday and appreciated his message of solidarity. She reaffirmed that, in response to the recent Gen Z movement, holding elections remains the top priority of the current government. This election is scheduled for the first week of March 2026 and will mark the end of her tenure as interim prime minister.

Sushila Karki holds the distinction of being Nepal’s first woman Chief Justice and now also the country’s first woman Prime Minister. She is supported by the Gen Z-led movement that has played a significant role in reshaping Nepal’s political landscape.

The Gen Z revolution led to 74 deaths when police used lethal force to suppress protests against the regime of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who is currently in hiding. The upcoming elections are viewed as a critical step toward restoring democratic governance in Nepal.

Interim Prime Minister Karki will remain in office until the elections in March 2026, setting the stage for a new executive leadership in Nepal.

*With inputs from ANI.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pm-modi-conveys-india-is-ready-to-support-nepal-in-efforts-towards-restoring-peace-and-stability-23594664

Melania Trump and Princess Kate make bold fashion choices for their historic first outing together

First Lady Melania Trump and Princess Kate are set to make history with their first joint outing together during President Donald Trump’s state visit to the United Kingdom.

On Wednesday, Prince William and Princess Kate greeted President Trump and the First Lady as they disembarked Marine One upon landing on the grounds of the Windsor estate. The couple was then taken to meet the King and Queen.

Princess Kate was dressed in a bold, burgundy Emilia Wickstead dress paired with a matching hat by Jane Taylor, featuring a feather brooch. Kate’s hat, made from luxury felt with a satin bow and veiling, retails for £2,330 and is made to measure. Meanwhile, Melania Trump wore a Christian Dior Haute Couture dark grey suit complemented by a wide-brimmed purple hat that obscured her eyes.

Later in the day, the two women will visit Frogmore Gardens together as part of President Trump’s second state visit, marking their first solo outing without their respective spouses. During this visit, Melania and Kate will meet UK Scoutmaster Dwayne Fields and members of the Scouts Squirrels program. A former Scout herself, Kate has served as co-president of the Scout Association since 2020.

Ahead of their historic outing, Melania Trump and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, joined their respective spouses for the Beating Retreat military ceremony. Camilla chose a royal blue dress and matching hat, accessorized with three strands of pearls, a gold brooch, and a handbag that matched her shoes.

The Trumps stayed overnight on Tuesday at the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in London before traveling to Windsor Castle on Wednesday for a ceremonial welcome and a lavish state banquet.

Melania’s itinerary for the short visit also includes an outing with Camilla. Together, the two will visit Queen Mary’s Dollhouse and the Royal Library at Windsor Castle.

This trip carries extra significance as the late Queen Elizabeth previously hosted the Trumps for a state visit during his first term. President Trump is now the first elected political leader in modern history to be invited to two state visits by British monarchs.

Crowds have turned out to support the U.S. President in the Berkshire town. Dianne, 52, from North London, told The Independent that she believes Trump is a special man. However, thousands are expected to demonstrate against the president’s stay on the streets of London later in the week.

The U.S. President’s visit is under tight security. Four arrests were made near Windsor after images of Trump and the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were projected onto Windsor Castle.

Wednesday’s events include a military parade described by the Ministry of Defence as the largest guard of honour ever held at a state visit. The day will also feature gun salutes, a joint U.S.-U.K. flypast, a carriage procession, and a lavish state banquet.
https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/melania-trump-kate-middleton-hat-dress-fashion-b2828931.html

In Future If India Attacks Pakistan, Will It Be Considered As Act Of Aggression Against Saudi Arabia? Defence Pact Between 2 Islamic Nations Explained

**Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Sign Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement**

*New Delhi:* In a significant development, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan on Wednesday signed a “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement.” According to the defence pact, any aggression against either nation will be treated as an attack on both countries.

The agreement was inked during a state visit by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Riyadh, at the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

### Joint Statement Highlights Historic Partnership

Both nations issued a joint statement following the agreement, emphasizing the historic partnership between them.

> “Building on the historic partnership extending for nearly eight decades between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and based on the bonds of brotherhood and Islamic solidarity, as well as shared strategic interests and close defence cooperation between the two countries, HRH the Crown Prince and the Pakistani prime minister signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement,” the statement read.

The agreement reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhancing their security and working towards regional and global peace. It aims to develop various aspects of defence cooperation and strengthen joint deterrence against any acts of aggression.

> “The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both,” the joint statement further added.

### Details of the Agreement

The pact formalizes defence cooperation between the two Islamic nations, clearly stipulating that any aggression on one country will be regarded as an attack on both.

As highlighted in the joint statement:

> “This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defence cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression.”

Notably, Pakistan is the only Islamic country with nuclear weapons. Reports suggest that following this agreement, Saudi Arabia may gain access to Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.

The agreement marks a shift from informal defence ties to structured military cooperation between the two nations.

### Implications for India

The pact has raised alarm bells in New Delhi. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have maintained close relations for decades, with Riyadh providing Islamabad financial support through grants and loans on several occasions.

This defence pact effectively provides Pakistan with a strategic shield. Pakistan’s stance in the region could become emboldened as Islamabad may invoke the agreement to involve Saudi Arabia in any dispute with India, especially in the context of Kashmir.

India’s relations with Saudi Arabia have generally been cordial. Saudi Arabia is India’s fifth-largest trade partner, while India ranks as Saudi Arabia’s second-largest trade partner.

On the surface, the pact appears to substantially bolster Pakistan’s military and diplomatic position in the region.

### Context: Recent Regional Tensions

The agreement was signed just months after the Pahalgam attack in which 26 people were killed by heavily armed terrorists belonging to The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba.

In retaliation, India launched **Operation Sindoor**, targeting nine high-value terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Pakistan responded with counterstrikes, escalating tensions further.

Following the military operation, India initiated **Operation Sindoor Outreach** by sending delegations of parliamentarians and officials to friendly nations to highlight Pakistan’s state-sponsored terrorism. One such delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda, visited Saudi Arabia as part of this campaign.

### India’s Reaction

In response to the Pakistan-Saudi pact, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement:

> “We have seen reports of the signing of a strategic mutual Defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The Government was aware that this development, which formalises a long-standing arrangement between the two countries, had been under consideration.”

> “We will study the implications of this development for our national security as well as for regional and global stability. The Government remains committed to protecting India’s national interests and ensuring comprehensive national security in all domains.”

### Geopolitical Impact

The agreement is considered a major diplomatic victory for Pakistan and is expected to have significant geopolitical repercussions in the near future.

This development came after a summit attended by 40 Islamic nations in Doha, where reports suggest a NATO-like alliance was proposed in response to Israel’s attack on Qatar.

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*Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/in-future-if-india-attacks-pakistan-will-it-be-considered-as-act-of-aggression-against-saudi-arabia-defence-pact-between-2-islamic-nations-explained

Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defence pact: Declares joint response to any agresssion on either; no shift in India ties, says Riyadh

**Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Sign Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement to Formalize Security Cooperation**

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have formalized their long-standing security cooperation by signing a **Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement**, marking a significant step toward institutionalizing their military ties. The pact pledges mutual support in the event of any external aggression, reflecting a shared commitment to regional security and peace.

The agreement was signed during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s state visit to Riyadh and was announced through a joint statement following his talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. According to Reuters, this new accord aims to enhance defense cooperation between the two Islamic nations and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression.

A key feature of the pact is that any attack on either country will be considered an attack on both, representing a major shift from informal security arrangements to a formalized military framework.

A senior Saudi official described the deal as the culmination of years of discussions and emphasized that it is not a reaction to any recent conflict or specific country. The official also noted that it is a comprehensive defensive agreement encompassing all military means but declined to specify whether it includes Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.

This agreement follows days after an extraordinary joint session of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), convened in response to Israel’s strike on Doha on September 9 targeting senior Hamas leaders. However, the Saudi official stressed that the new pact is not directly linked to this incident.

In addition to defense cooperation, both leaders discussed ways to enhance the strategic partnership across various fields and exchanged views on regional and global issues, according to Al Jazeera.

While Saudi Arabia strengthens its defense ties with Pakistan, it reiterated that its growing relationship with India remains unaffected. The Saudi official commented, “Our relationship with India is more robust than it has ever been,” a noteworthy statement given the brief conflict between India and Pakistan earlier in May.

**A Long History of Military Cooperation**

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a deep history of military collaboration. Since 1967, Islamabad has trained over 8,200 Saudi military personnel, and the two nations have conducted multiple joint military exercises, underscoring their enduring partnership.

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/pakistan-saudi-arabia-defence-pact-declares-joint-response-to-any-agresssion-on-either-no-shift-in-india-ties-says-riyadh/articleshow/123961139.cms