foreign minister

Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed US President Donald Trump's suggestions of a potential meeting with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, deeming it unrealistic. Araghchi emphasized the need for practicality, while Trump had previously indicated Khamenei's involvement in talks and expressed a desire to meet him. Trump also claimed success in degrading Iran's military capabilities.

foreign minister of Australia, Penny Wong, announced that she will visit India to participate in the Quad foreign ministers' Meeting and hold the Australia-India foreign ministers' Framework Dialogue.

India and Nepal are poised to significantly enhance their "very special relationship," with discussions focusing on expanding cooperation in energy, digital technology, and new sectors. Both nations emphasized their civilizational ties and a shared resolve for a transformative partnership, aiming to unlock its full potential amidst ongoing collaboration and mutual support.

India's foreign exchange reserves rebounded by $938 million to $682.321 billion in the week ending May 28, reversing the previous week's decline. This rise was primarily driven by an increase in foreign currency assets, despite a dip in gold reserves. The overall reserves had previously fallen due to Middle East conflict-related interventions.

The move is aimed at making Indian debt markets more attractive to overseas investors while helping shield the economy from the effects of the continuing Iran conflict.

A devastating fire in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar hotel claimed at least 21 lives, including foreign nationals from countries like Bangladesh and Nigeria. The External Affairs Minister expressed condolences and assured assistance to embassies. Investigations reveal the establishment may have operated with more rooms than permitted, raising serious questions about safety and emergency response.

Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari is exploring cement concrete roads over bituminous ones due to a surge in bitumen prices and supply disruptions from the West Asia conflict. He also highlighted the potential of domestically produced bio-bitumen from rice straw and other biowaste to reduce imports and save foreign exchange.

Reports suggest that PM Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet on Wednesday cleared an ordinance that will amend the Income Tax Act and enable the proposed tax exemption.

Authorities are launching a massive survey of constructions within 50 km of Rajasthan's international border following a high-level meeting. Committees are verifying legality, funding sources, and security concerns, with strict action promised against illegal structures and encroachments. This initiative aims to bolster border security and national safety.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the Economic Advisory Council to discuss strengthening India's economic growth amidst global uncertainty. The Reserve Bank of India kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, citing geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns, while revising GDP growth and inflation projections downwards and upwards respectively for FY2026-27.

Renewed attacks in Lebanon have halted US-Iran message exchanges, with Tehran threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz and activate new fronts. Iran insists on a complete cessation of Israeli operations in Gaza and Lebanon before resuming any talks. Escalating Israeli strikes in Beirut further complicate fragile diplomatic efforts.

A devastating Delhi hotel fire claimed 21 lives, including 17 foreign nationals, with investigations revealing safety lapses and illegal expansion. In West Bengal, a TMC leader claimed rebel status as opposition leader. Meanwhile, India condemned a Kuwait airport attack that killed an Indian national. DK Shivakumar took oath as Karnataka CM, projecting Congress unity.

With rising tensions at the forefront, Washington has taken bold steps to strengthen its military arsenal around Cuba, sending in powerful warships such as the USS Nimitz and intensifying surveillance operations. The unfolding situation has led to a fuel blockade, plunging Cuba into an acute energy shortage that has serious repercussions for its citizens and economic stability.

Speaking to reporters during a cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday local time, Trump rejected the idea of any temporary arrangement that would allow Iran and Oman to jointly manage the strait. "No, the strait's going to be open to everybody," Trump said when asked whether he would support such a deal. Calling it an international passage, the US President stressed that no country would be allowed to dominate it.