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West Bengal and it’s food; where every bite tells a story

Aishi Saha — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 06:54:20 +0000

West Bengal’s love affair with food is as rich and diverse as its cultural heritage. From the busy streets of Kolkata to the non metropolitans, food is not considered something just for survival; it’s rather way of life.

Bengali cuisine famous for its varied flavors, encompasses a harmonious blend of spices. Whether it’s the mouthwatering aroma of a freshly cooked fish curry or maacher jhol, the crispiness of a telebhaja found in a nearby street shop or the sweetness of it’s all time favourite dessert, roshogolla, every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and love for good food.

The state’s food landscape is majorly influenced by its multi-cultural history. Influences from Mughlai, British, and Chinese cuisines, seamlessly woven into its culinary tapestry is what makes Bengali cuisine so flavourful and varied. Feasting in West Bengal is about indulging in an experience that celebrates the region’s vibrant cultural identity through its diverse and flavorful dishes.

West Bengal’s culinary culture boasts an array of flavourful dishes- ranging from its famous macher jhol to its vegetarian dishes like aloo posto and sukto.

Sukto is a traditional vegetable dish featuring vegetables that are cooked in a lightly spiced gravy. Vegetables like bitter gourd, eggplant, drumsticks, and potatoes are sautéed and simmered in a flavorful paste of primarily mustard seeds and poppy seeds. Its unique mix of bitter and sweet flavors- that also both in a very balanced amount is what makes it to be such a cherished dish in the Bengali cuisine, often served during special occasions like festivities, rice ceremonies,etc.

Next comes the very famous Aloo posto which is a simple yet delicious Bengali dish that consists of poppy seeds and potatoes majorly. Potatoes are cooked with poppy seeds paste, mustard oil alongside other spices resulting in a flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and also Dal Bhaat.

In Bengali culture, fish is more than just food. It is considered as sacred often being used in major festivities like marriage ceremonies. Bengalis’ love for fish runs deep, reflecting their deep-rooted connection to their land and heritage. When we think of fish items in Bengal, Shorshe Ilish is what comes to our minds instantly. It is a culinary masterpiece. In this dish, hilsa fish is marinated in a mustard paste, with a number of spices, then steamed to create a mixture of flavors that captures the essence of Bengali cuisine- and has become a favourite in Bengali cuisine over the years.

Bhetki macher paturi is another of the traditional Bengali delicacies where fillets of the bhetki fish are marinated in a spicy paste made from numerous spices, and are then wrapped in kolapata or banana leaves before being steamed or grilled. The banana leaves impart a subtle flavour to the dish, making every bite of the bhetki macher paturi a culinary delight.

Coming to meat, Kosha Mangsho is a beloved Bengali dish featuring spicy mutton curry, marinated in yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and a flavourful of spices, simmered until tender with caramelized onions and tomatoes. Also served at various outlet, Golbari’s Kosha Mangsho is one of the most famous food items to be looked out for once in Kolkata. It promises to be a remarkable experience for every meat lover.

Bengal is renowned for its immense number of sweets, which hold a cherished place in its culinary heritage. From the iconic rasgulla and sandesh to lesser-known delicacies like chomchom and kheer kodom, most of them were first discovered by the people of Bengal. These delectable confections are not merely desserts but cultural symbols, enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, and everyday indulgences, showcasing the region’s love for sweets.

Bengali cuisine is almost incomplete without mentioning rosogolla, a soft and spongy dessert beloved by people across India and beyond. Made from fresh cottage cheese or chana cooked in sugar syrup, rosogolla melts in the mouth, leaving behind a sweet and delicate flavor.

A sweet ending to any Bengali meal, mishti doi is a creamy dessert made from thickened milk, sugar, and a hint of caramelized flavor imparted by jaggery or date palm sugar. This chilled yogurt-based dessert is served in earthenware pots which are loved by all.

These dishes are just a small part of the wonder that Bengali cuisine actually is. Each one of them is a testament to the region’s rich culinary culture. With it’s food items ranging from the extremes of spicy to sweet is what showcases their creativity and diversity. Love for this food is what brings all the people together.

U.S. warns Pacific islands post presence of Chinese police in Kiribati

Aishi Saha — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:18:40 +0000

The United States has issued a warning to Pacific Islands nations regarding their engagement with Chinese security forces. This cautionary message follows the presence of Chinese police personnel in the remote atoll nation of Kiribati, situated near Hawaii.

Kiribati’s acting police commissioner, Eeri Aritiera, disclosed that uniformed Chinese officers are collaborating with local police in community policing initiatives and a crime database program. This development has raised concerns in Washington, particularly amid the escalating rivalry between China and the United States for influence in the Pacific region.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, expressed apprehension over the deployment of security forces from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to Pacific Island countries. The spokesperson emphasised that such actions could potentially exacerbate regional and international tensions, rather than contribute to stability.

Furthermore, Washington voiced its disapproval of China’s efforts to extend its influence through what it termed as “transnational repression efforts,” including the establishment of police stations abroad. The United States underscored its commitment to safeguarding the autonomy of Pacific Island nations and expressed concerns about the implications of security agreements with China.

Kiribati holds strategic importance not only due to its proximity to Hawaii but also because of its vast exclusive economic zone spanning over 3.5 million square kilometres in the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, Kiribati hosts critical infrastructure such as a Japanese satellite tracking station, with China expressing intentions to reconstruct a World War II U.S. military airstrip on Kanton Island, which has raised eyebrows in Washington.

In response to China’s initiatives, the United States announced plans to upgrade the wharf on Kanton Island, coupled with aspirations to establish an embassy in Kiribati. The geopolitical manoeuvring underscores the intensifying competition between major powers for influence and strategic advantage in the Pacific region.

While Kiribati has acknowledged soliciting policing assistance from China in 2022, both Kiribati’s acting police commissioner and a Chinese embassy source denied the existence of a formal Chinese police station in the country. Nonetheless, uniformed Chinese police officers have been operating in Kiribati on a rotational basis, raising questions about the extent of China’s security involvement in the region.

In conclusion, the presence of Chinese police in Kiribati has sparked concerns in Washington, amplifying the geopolitical rivalry between China and the United States for influence in the Pacific Islands.

China hits back at sanctions over Russia

Aishi Saha — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:00:29 +0000

In a bold and assertive move, China has vehemently opposed recent sanctions imposed by the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom on Chinese companies allegedly linked to Russia-related activities. The U.S. Commerce Ministry issued a stern rebuke, asserting its unwavering commitment to defending the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises. This development follows the Biden administration’s announcement of trade curbs affecting 93 entities from Russia, China, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Kyrgyzstan, India, and South Korea, sparking global controversy. Subsequently, the EU and UK also imposed their own punitive measures, including sanctions on Chinese firms and a Hong Kong-based company.

China’s Commerce Ministry issued three statements on its website, firmly rejecting what it perceives as unjust sanctions and warning of potential negative repercussions on economic and trade relations. Notably, China refrained from directly criticising the U.S. in its official response.

The latest sanctions aim to thwart attempts by companies worldwide to bypass existing restrictions on Moscow’s access to military equipment and other essential resources for its military operations. These developments coincide with the second anniversary of Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine, which commenced on February 24, 2022.

China’s resolute stance underscores its determination to safeguard its economic interests amid escalating tensions with Western nations over the Ukrainian conflict. The situation remains fluid, with potential ramifications for global trade and diplomatic ties.

As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate, the implications of China’s stance on the broader international community are significant. The standoff between China and Western powers adds a new layer of complexity to an already volatile global landscape. With diplomatic channels strained and economic relations at risk, the need for dialogue and diplomatic resolution has never been more urgent.

Furthermore, the fallout from these sanctions could reverberate across various sectors, impacting businesses, consumers, and investors worldwide. As such, policymakers and stakeholders must navigate these challenging waters with caution, seeking to find common ground while upholding their respective interests.

China’s firm opposition to recent sanctions underscores the growing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict. The international community must tread carefully to prevent further escalation and work towards peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

Barrier installed by China raises tensions at Scarborough Shoal

Aishi Saha — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:49:11 +0000

Recent satellite images reveal the presence of a new floating barrier at the entrance of Scarborough Shoal in the contentious South China Sea. The barrier, documented by Maxar Technologies on February 22nd, obstructs access to the shoal’s mouth, where encounters between Philippine and Chinese vessels have been frequent. Last week, the Chinese coast guard purportedly repelled a Philippine vessel, alleging illegal intrusion into Chinese waters. However, the Philippines disputes these claims, asserting the lawfulness of its activities in the area, including patrols and fuel transport for Filipino fishermen.

Scarborough Shoal lies within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone, yet China maintains territorial assertions over it. The shoal’s strategic significance, coupled with conflicting sovereignty claims, has made it a focal point of regional tension. Notably, an international arbitration tribunal in 2016 invalidated China’s claims, a decision rejected by Beijing.

The satellite images corroborate reports from the Philippine Coast Guard, which documented Chinese coast guard vessels deploying barriers at the shoal’s entrance on February 22nd. The Chinese actions were reportedly accompanied by shadowing and blocking manoeuvres directed at Philippine vessels. Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela suggests that the barriers aim to deter Philippine government vessels from monitoring activities in the vicinity.

China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal and criticised Philippine actions as violations. The recent developments signal potential escalation, with experts suggesting that Beijing’s actions may be a response to Manila’s challenges to Chinese presence in the area.

Since assuming office in June 2022, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has confronted Chinese assertiveness at Scarborough Shoal, supporting Filipino fishermen’s rights upheld by the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling. The shoal’s rich marine resources and sheltered lagoon make it a vital fishing ground and refuge during storms.

The removal of the floating barrier after the departure of Philippine vessels underscores the temporary nature of Chinese actions. However, the incident underscores the fragile maritime situation in the South China Sea and the ongoing contestation over territorial and fishing rights. As tensions persist, the potential for further incidents remains a concern, heightening regional instability in the contested waters.

Philippines accuses China of attempting to block another vessel

Aishi Saha — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:35:58 +0000

The Philippines has lodged a complaint against China, alleging that the Chinese coast guard attempted to obstruct a Filipino government vessel delivering supplies to fishermen near a disputed reef in the South China Sea. This incident marks the second such accusation within a span of two weeks.

On February 22, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that the BRP Datu Sanday, while supplying fuel to fishermen near the Scarborough Shoal, encountered harassment from a China Coast Guard vessel and three other Chinese ships. According to the incident report, three of the Chinese vessels approached within 100 metres of the Datu Sanday’s bow, engaging in shadowing, vessel transponder jamming, and other dangerous maneuvers.

Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Filipino coast guard on South China Sea matters, commended the skipper of the BRP Datu Sanday for demonstrating excellent seamanship skills, enabling the vessel to evade the blocking attempts.

This incident follows a similar encounter a week earlier involving the BRP Datu Tamblot in the same area. Scarborough Shoal, which China seized from the Philippines in 2012, has been a contentious point between the two nations. Beijing’s deployment of patrol boats in the area has led to allegations of harassment against Philippine vessels and obstruction of Filipino fishermen’s access to the shoal’s fish-rich lagoon.

China’s state-run Global Times, via social media, claimed that the China Coast Guard repelled the Datu Sanday for “illegally intruding into waters adjacent to China’s Huangyan Island,” using the Chinese name for the shoal.

Situated 240 kilometres west of the Philippines’ Luzon Island, Scarborough Shoal lies nearly 900 kilometres from Hainan, the nearest major Chinese land mass. China’s expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea, which conflict with international law, have been a source of tension in the region.

Last year witnessed tense standoffs between China and the Philippines around disputed reefs, resulting in collisions and Chinese vessels resorting to water cannon to deter Philippine boats.

As diplomatic tensions persist between China and the Philippines, the latest incident underscores the ongoing challenges in managing maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

China and India hold meeting on border issues

Aishi Saha — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:54:00 +0000

The recent meeting between Chinese and Indian military officials aimed at addressing border issues has been described as constructive, according to a statement from China’s defence ministry on Monday. Held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side, the discussions focused on maintaining peace and stability along the Sino-Indian border until a consensus can be reached. This meeting comes amid longstanding tensions between the two nations, particularly in the Himalayan region.

Both parties have committed to maintaining open lines of communication through military and diplomatic channels. The agreement reflects a diplomatic effort to prevent further escalation and preserve bilateral relations. While specific details of the discussions were not disclosed, the constructive nature of the meeting suggests a willingness from both sides to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolution.

The ongoing communication between Chinese and Indian military officials underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement in managing territorial disputes. Given that both countries are nuclear powers with significant geopolitical influence, peaceful resolution of their border issues is crucial for regional stability.

The meeting at the border point signifies a step forward in efforts to ease tensions and build confidence between the two Asian giants. However, the road to resolving the border dispute remains challenging, and further dialogue and cooperation will be necessary to achieve lasting peace.

The outcome of these discussions will be closely watched by the international community, as any progress towards resolving the border dispute could have broader implications for regional security. The meeting reflects a positive development in the efforts to manage tensions between China and India, but the situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as diplomatic efforts continue.

In conclusion, the recent meeting between Chinese and Indian military officials marks a positive step towards addressing longstanding border issues. While challenges remain, the commitment to ongoing communication and dialogue signals a willingness to work towards peaceful resolution. The international community will continue to monitor developments closely, recognizing the significance of stability in the Sino-Indian border region for regional security.

EU imposes sanctions on Russia over Ukraine conflict

Aishi Saha — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:38:27 +0000

The European Union has unanimously approved its 13th package of sanctions against Russia in response to Moscow’s aggression towards Ukraine. The latest measures target nearly 200 entities and individuals allegedly involved in aiding Russia’s procurement of weapons and the abduction of Ukrainian children.

Belgium, currently holding the EU presidency, announced the approval of the sanctions on social media, describing them as one of the most extensive measures endorsed by the EU. While the sanctions focus primarily on adding entities and individuals to the existing travel and business restrictions list, no additional measures against specific economic sectors have been introduced.

The targeted entities include those affiliated with Russia’s military industrial complex and individuals involved in the trafficking and kidnapping of Ukrainian children. Notably, the sanctions also extend to a North Korean and a Belarusian firm, reflecting the international scope of the measures.

The decision to impose sanctions comes amid ongoing accusations against Russia regarding the abduction of Ukrainian children from orphanages and care homes in occupied regions. The International Criminal Court has indicted Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, for these alleged war crimes, although Moscow denies any wrongdoing.

Furthermore, the sanctions aim to disrupt the procurement network supporting Russia’s military activities, particularly in the realm of drone technology. European firms are prohibited from selling dual-use goods to 27 newly listed companies, primarily Russian entities, alongside three mainland Chinese firms and one Hong Kong-based company.

These measures, set to be formally approved ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, underscore the EU’s commitment to curbing Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the importance of degrading Russia’s military capabilities and limiting its access to advanced weaponry.

In addition to imposing new sanctions, EU ambassadors have also renewed the existing sanctions regime targeting approximately 2,000 individuals and companies for another six months. However, concerns persist over the effectiveness of these measures in deterring Russian aggression, particularly as Russia continues to exert control over Ukrainian territory and escalate tensions in the region.

The latest sanctions represent the EU’s ongoing efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine and signal solidarity with the Ukrainian people amidst ongoing conflict and instability in the region.

Chinese tourists revive Southeast Asian tourism Post-Covid

Aishi Saha — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:28:15 +0000

Chinese tourists have surged back to popular tourist destinations across Asia during the Lunar New Year holiday, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in countries like Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. The reinstatement of visa-free access for Chinese travelers to Southeast Asian nations has significantly contributed to this revival, marking a robust resurgence in travel following the easing of strict Covid restrictions in China since early 2023.

This influx of Chinese visitors comes as a relief to economies heavily reliant on tourism, although concerns linger over the sustainability of the recovery amid a sluggish mainland economy and volatile markets. Despite these challenges, there remains optimism regarding continued spending on travel-related experiences among Chinese citizens, according to analysts at HSBC.

Data from travel platforms like Trip.com and LY.com reveal a substantial increase in bookings and hotel occupancy rates in destinations such as Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Additionally, spending via platforms like Alipay has seen significant growth, indicating a resurgence in consumer confidence among Chinese travelers.

In particular, the Middle East has emerged as a popular destination for Chinese tourists during the Lunar New Year period, with a notable increase in travel to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Moreover, Macau, the only region in China where gambling is legal, experienced a significant influx of tourists, providing a boost to the local economy and casino operators.

While the return of tourists to these destinations signals positive momentum for the global travel industry, there are notable shifts in traveler behavior. Chinese tourists are increasingly opting for experience-based trips over traditional shopping-focused itineraries, as reflected in higher spending on food and beverages and a surge in bookings for scenic experiences and car rentals.

As countries continue to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, the resurgence of Chinese tourism in Southeast Asia and beyond offers a glimmer of hope for the broader tourism sector’s recovery. However, stakeholders will need to remain vigilant and adaptable to sustain this positive momentum in the face of ongoing uncertainties.

Taiwan vigilant as Chinese coast guard incursion raises alarm

Aishi Saha — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 15:44:35 +0000

In a tense maritime standoff, Taiwan forcefully repelled a Chinese coast guard vessel that encroached upon waters near its strategically significant frontline islands. The incident follows a recent confrontation where Chinese authorities boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat, sparking alarm.

Taiwan’s coast guard reported that a Chinese vessel, identified as boat number 8029, ventured into Taiwanese waters near Kinmen on Tuesday morning. Responding promptly, Taiwan dispatched its own coast guard vessel, employing radio communication and broadcasts to drive away the intruding Chinese boat, which eventually retreated after an hour.

Asserting its sovereignty over the Kinmen islands, Taiwan reiterated its commitment to maintaining harmony and security in the region through continuous radar surveillance and patrols. Kinmen, though under Taiwan’s control, lies close to China’s shores, making it a focal point of tension between the two entities.

The recent escalation in tensions comes amidst heightened vigilance in Taipei following the election of Lai Ching-te as president, perceived by Beijing as a pro-independence figure. China’s decision to initiate regular patrols and law enforcement activities around Kinmen further exacerbates the already strained relations between the two sides.

In a related incident, six Chinese coast guard officers boarded a Taiwanese tourist boat to inspect its documentation, causing distress among passengers and crew. Taiwan’s Ocean Affairs Council expressed dismay over the intrusion, emphasizing its negative impact on cross-strait relations.

While both sides have acknowledged accidental incursions by civilian vessels, Taiwan insists that such actions undermine regional stability and jeopardize peace efforts. Kinmen, historically significant due to its proximity to mainland China, remains heavily fortified and strategically vital for Taiwan’s national security.

Despite the provocative actions by Chinese authorities, Taiwan’s Defence Minister urged restraint, advocating for peaceful resolution to avoid further escalation. However, tensions persist as China continues to assert its territorial claims, often disregarding established maritime boundaries.

Analysts suggest that China’s assertiveness towards Taiwan reflects its broader ambitions in the region, fueled by geopolitical considerations and domestic political imperatives. As tensions simmer, the international community closely monitors developments, wary of potential escalation and its implications for regional stability.

Efforts to de-escalate the situation remain paramount, with diplomatic channels crucial in preventing further flare-ups and promoting peaceful coexistence between Taiwan and China.

In response to the incident, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office refrained from immediate comment, while Taiwanese authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding sovereignty and safeguarding regional stability.

Cameron raises Human Rights concerns in talks with Chinese counterpart at Munich Security Conference

Aishi Saha — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 09:26:50 +0000

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron engaged in discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the Munich Security Conference, conveying the UK’s stance on several critical matters, as per statements from the UK Foreign Office.

Cameron urged China to utilise its influence over Iran to address the actions of Houthi militants in the Red Sea region. Additionally, he reiterated the UK’s deep concerns regarding human rights violations in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, drawing attention to the plight of British parliamentarians sanctioned by China and advocating for the release of media magnate Jimmy Lai.

In response, Wang stressed the significance of bolstering strategic communication between the two nations and assuming constructive roles in advancing security and peace initiatives. He underscored the necessity of expanding areas of mutual interest and effectively managing differences to enhance bilateral relations.

The appointment of Cameron, a former British Prime Minister, as Foreign Secretary under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s administration, sparked apprehension among certain members of the Conservative Party regarding the government’s stance towards China. While Cameron had previously lauded a “golden era” in UK-China relations in 2015, Sunak’s leadership has signalled a departure from this narrative, prioritising the balancing of national security interests with cooperation on trade and climate change.

Despite this shift in rhetoric, Cameron affirmed in December of the previous year that the UK would persist in engaging with China where such engagement aligns with British interests.

The exchange between Cameron and Wang underscores the ongoing diplomatic endeavours aimed at addressing crucial bilateral and global issues, notwithstanding the existing disparities between the two nations. Against a backdrop of persistent geopolitical tensions and heightened scrutiny of human rights violations, dialogue and cooperation remain indispensable for navigating the complexities of international relations.

As the international community grapples with an array of challenges, including geopolitical rivalries and humanitarian crises, concerted efforts towards dialogue and cooperation are imperative for fostering stability and advancing shared interests on the global stage.

Two Chinese fishermen dead post confrontation with Taiwanese coastguard

Aishi Saha — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:05:58 +0000

Two Chinese fishermen lost their lives in a tragic incident off Taiwan’s Kinmen archipelago, following a confrontation with the Taiwanese coastguard. According to Taipei authorities, the fishing vessel had entered Taiwanese waters on Wednesday, prompting intervention from local enforcement.

Reports indicate that the four fishermen aboard resisted inspection, leading to a pursuit by the coastguard. In the ensuing chase, the fishing boat capsized, resulting in the loss of two lives. The remaining crew members were taken to Kinmen for further investigation, with two in stable condition.

Beijing swiftly condemned the incident, expressing strong disapproval and stating that it had deeply affected the sentiments of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The geopolitical significance of Kinmen, located just 3km from China’s southeastern coast, underscores the tensions between China and Taiwan.

China views Taiwan as a renegade province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. Recent years have seen heightened activity, with Kinmen residents reporting increased presence of Chinese dredging vessels in the area.

The incident comes amidst escalating tensions, exacerbated by Taiwan’s recent presidential elections which Beijing views as a move towards independence. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office has called for a thorough investigation and assistance for the victims’ families, while accusing Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party of aggressive tactics against Chinese fishermen

In response, Taiwan defended its coastguard’s actions and urged Beijing to restrain similar behaviour in its waters. The Mainland Affairs Council of Taiwan cited ongoing incursions by Chinese fishing boats into restricted waters, particularly during the Lunar New Year season, resulting in regrettable confrontations.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics between China and Taiwan, with maritime disputes continuing to fuel tensions. Efforts to maintain stability in the region remain paramount, with both sides urged to engage in dialogue to prevent further incidents and foster mutual understanding.

As the international community watches closely, the tragic loss of life underscores the need for peaceful resolution and respect for maritime boundaries in the volatile Taiwan Strait.

Nation’s sovereign bonds may get added to JPMorgan’s GBI-EM Global Diversified bond index

Yakita Somani — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:14:53 +0000

Indian government bonds may be added to a global index next year, triggering passive inflows of about $30 billion to help the country finance its current account and fiscal deficits, according to Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

According to experts Danny Suwanapruti and Santanu Sengupta, the country’s sovereign bonds may be included in JPMorgan’s GBI-EM Global Diversified bond index with an initial 10% weighting. One of the largest emerging markets without a worldwide index is India, which has a $1 trillion market for sovereign bonds.

Goldman’s optimism comes despite the fact that the index inclusion has largely been put on hold after New Delhi refrained from implementing any tax adjustments for foreigners that would have aided the settlement of Indian bonds on global clearing platforms like Euroclear. Although not Euroclearable, Chinese and Indonesian government bonds are included in the JPMorgan index, according to the experts.

The researchers stated that including India, a sizable, deep, and high-yielding market, will assist to diversify the index and raise its average yield. A move like that would be advantageous to many parties, including EM investors and the Indian government.

According to the memo, account opening procedures for foreigners are currently onerous in India but might be improved with a longer lead time for inclusion. According to the analysts, the nation has also made some strides on operational difficulties including posting margin requirements and longer settlement timings.

Amid worries in India, Chinese “Spy” ship is permitted to dock at Lanka Port

Yakita Somani — Sat, 13 Aug 2022 14:18:30 +0000

Despite India’s worries that the controversial Chinese research vessel could spy on New Delhi’s military facilities, Sri Lanka’s government has permitted a Chinese “Spy” ship to visit the island, officials said on Saturday.

According to Indian media, the Yuan Wang 5 is a dual-purpose surveillance ship even though international shipping and analytics sites classify it as a research and survey vessel.

Beijing is expanding its influence in the Indian Ocean and in Sri Lanka, and New Delhi is wary of both since it considers them to be firmly inside its area of influence.

The Chinese-run Hambantota port in Sri Lanka was scheduled to receive the Yuan Wang 5 on August 11, but Colombo requested Beijing to postpone the visit indefinitely after India raised concerns.
Nirmal P. Silva, however, Sri Lanka’s harbour master, claimed that he had obtained permission from the foreign ministry for the ship to call in Hambantota from August 16 to 22.

India had expressed its concerns to President Ranil Wickremesinghe directly, according to Sri Lankan government officials, but the nation did not provide an “acceptable response” as to why the ship should not be permitted to dock.

The Chinese ship, according to port officials, was reportedly some 1,000 kilometres southeast of Sri Lanka on Friday night and was slowly making its way to the Hambantota deep sea port.

The Yuan Wang 5 might be used for satellite and space tracking, and it has particular applications in the launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles, according to sources in the Indian government.

The administration, however, insisted that it will make decisions based on its security concerns and refuted China’s “insinuations” that New Delhi exerted pressure on Colombo to forgo the ship’s visit.

Chinese Tibet Airlines plane skids off runway, injures 40

United News of India (UNI) — Thu, 12 May 2022 06:44:55 +0000

Beijing, May 12: Over 40 people among 122 aboard the Tibet Airlines plane on Thursday injured after the plane skidded off the runway in China’s Chongqing, media reports said. “The plane, which was carrying out the TV9833 flight. From Chongqing to Nyingchi, has skidded off the runway at the Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. The forward part of the fuselage has caught fire on the left side”. Citing the statement of the Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, Sputnik reported. “All 113 passengers. And 9 crew members have been safely evacuated. 40 of them have sustained slight injuries and are hospitalised”. The statement read.

(Except for the headline. This story has not been edited by Business Upturn staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shanghai stock exchange to review Ant Group’s application for IPO on September 18

News Desk — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 08:40:35 +0000

Chinese fintech firm Ant Group’s application for a local IPO will be reviewed on September 18, the Shanghai stock exchange said on Wednesday.

Ant is planning to list simultaneously in Hong Kong and on Shanghai’s STAR Market. Sources revealed it could be the world’s largest IPO.

Under the local rules, once the company goes through the listing committee’s hearing, it can then register the flotation with the country’s securities regulator before initiating the pricing consultation process.

Ant Group is the fintech arm of Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba Group Holding.

In 2019, about half of all foreign students in the US were Indians and Chinese

Pravin Suryawanshi — Sat, 29 Aug 2020 07:10:50 +0000

Chinese and Indians accounted for 48 per cent of all active foreign students in the US in 2019, according to an official report.

A report on immigration students in the US, released on Friday by the Student and Exchange Visitor Programme (SEVP) — a part of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — said there were 1.52 million active records in SEVIS for F-1 and M-1 students during the calendar year 2019, a 1.7 per cent decrease from 2018.

SEVIS is a web-based system for maintaining information on international nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors in the US.

While an F1 visa is issued to international students who are attending an academic programme or English language programme at a US college or university, M-1 visa is reserved for international students attending vocational schools and technical schools. Forty-eight per cent or 733,718 of all active SEVIS records hailed from either China (474,497) or India (249,221) in 2019, a slight increase from 47 per cent in the calendar year 2018, the report said.

While the overall number of active F-1 and M-1 student records coming from Asia decreased by 28,063 from 2018 to 2019, student record trends varied across different countries, it said.

The number of students from China and India made Asia the most popular continent of origin. Despite this, China sent fewer students in 2019 in comparison to 2018 (-4,235), as did India (-2,069), the report said.

According to the report, 75 per cent of all nonimmigrant students in the US call Asia home.

Some Asian countries like Qatar, Syria, and Yemen sent fewer students, while Azerbaijan, Cambodia and Kyrgyzstan sent more students in 2019.

The report noted that 49 per cent (671,731) of foreign students in 2019 were female, while 56 per cent (851,518) were male. Of K-12 student enrolments, 42.5 per cent or 33,759 were females in 2019.

It said 43.7 per cent (442,747) of bachelor’s and master’s nonimmigrant students, 48.4 per cent (52,017) seeking associate degrees and 39 per cent (73,301) seeking doctoral degrees in 2019 were females.

Of the top 10 countries of citizenship in 2019, the average female enrolment was 44 per cent (471,262) and the average male enrolment was 56 per cent (595,175), it said.

The report said Asia remains the number one continent of origin for nonimmigrant students with 1,137,419 student records, despite a 2.4 per cent (-28,063) decrease in the nonimmigrant student population from the continent.