Japan-India Ties: Japan PM Sanae Takaichi is set to visit India in early July with a 50-company business delegation, spotlighting semiconductors, critical minerals and supply-chain security. Trade Diplomacy: India expects the India-EU free trade agreement to be signed by December, with implementation likely in early 2027, while India-US ministerial talks aim to finalise an interim trade pact ahead of a mid-July deadline. Regional Politics: India rejected Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari’s comments on Varanasi’s mosque notice, saying he has “no locus standi” on internal Indian matters. China Watch: Hong Kong is pitching itself as a launchpad for mainland hard-tech firms’ overseas expansion, backed by investor access and regulatory alignment. Economy & Markets: A hawkish US policy backdrop is keeping global markets cautious, with stronger US retail sales and higher inflation forecasts shaping yields and the dollar. Sports: Japan’s World Cup surge continued with a 4-0 win over Tunisia, while India’s women’s boxing campaign in China delivered one gold and multiple medals. Culture & Wellness: International Yoga Day drew massive crowds across India and abroad, with events also tied to “healthy ageing” messaging.