Strategic Diplomacy

India and Bulgaria are giving fresh momentum to their bilateral partnership, with the latest Foreign Office Consultations highlighting expanding cooperation in trade, investment, AI, space, defence and science and technology. Co-chaired by Secretary (West) Sibi George and Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Christo Polendakov in New Delhi, the talks also underscored the importance of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement. As both countries explore new avenues of economic and technological cooperation, their relationship is emerging as an increasingly important link between India and the wider European landscape.

India and Japan strengthened their strategic dialogue as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met a delegation of Japanese LDP parliamentarians in New Delhi. Discussions focused on economic security, resilient supply chains, defence, technology, trade, investment and innovation, highlighting the continued momentum in the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

India and Sri Lanka are broadening their strategic partnership beyond traditional defence cooperation, placing greater emphasis on development, education, technology, infrastructure and innovation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s meeting with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in Colombo highlights New Delhi’s evolving role as a trusted development and security partner, while underscoring the shared vision of a stronger, more resilient and prosperous Indian Ocean region.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s visit to Beijing for the 25th round of India–China Special Representatives’ talks comes at a crucial moment in bilateral relations. With border stability, strategic competition and the possibility of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India for the BRICS Summit in focus, the talks could provide an important opportunity for New Delhi and Beijing to explore a cautious path toward stabilising and managing their complex relationship.

Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita’s upcoming visit to Vietnam, Lao PDR and Palau from August 26 to September 2 highlights India’s expanding Act East and Indo-Pacific engagement. The three-nation tour reflects New Delhi’s efforts to deepen ties with ASEAN partners and Pacific Island nations while advancing cooperation in trade, development, maritime security and sustainable growth.

India and Uzbekistan strengthened their Strategic Partnership during the official visit of Uzbek Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Bakhtiyor Saidov to New Delhi. High-level meetings focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, energy, and regional security, while the India–Uzbekistan Business Forum explored new economic opportunities, reflecting both nations’ commitment to expanding bilateral ties and fostering long-term strategic collaboration.

India and Lesotho reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties during the sixth Joint Bilateral Commission for Cooperation (JBCC) meeting in New Delhi on July 30. The two countries reviewed progress in key sectors, including trade, agriculture, healthcare, education, renewable energy, and capacity building, while pledging to deepen development cooperation, expand economic engagement, and enhance diplomatic collaboration for mutual growth and shared prosperity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July 2026 visit to Indonesia marked a significant step in strengthening the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, maritime security, technology, connectivity, and cultural exchanges, the visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of both nations to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth across the Indo-Pacific region.

India and Saudi Arabia have strengthened their strategic partnership with the signing of a MoU on water resources cooperation during Saudi Water Week in Jeddah, marking a significant step towards collaboration in sustainability, innovation, and water security.

India’s engagement with Nepal remains a cornerstone of its Neighbourhood First policy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with RSP Chairman Rabi Lamichhane reaffirmed continued cooperation in connectivity, energy, and regional development.