Claude Arpi is a writer based in Auroville near Puducherry, India.

The Barahoti saga: Failure of 'Nehru doctrine' and deceitful nature of Dragon

05 Jun 2023  |  Firstpost  |  English  |  India-China Border Dispute

The article reports on the construction of new 'Xiaokang' model villages by China near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Middle Sector of the Indo-Tibet boundary, which are believed to have a dual purpose of poverty alleviation and serving as potential garrisons for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The rapid pace of construction using prefabricated parts is highlighted. The article delves into the historical context of the disputed area of Barahoti, the Panchsheel Agreement's implications, and the Intelligence Bureau's notes on the border's topography. It discusses the first Chinese incursion in Barahoti post-agreement and the subsequent diplomatic exchanges. The author criticizes the Indian diplomatic approach of the time and suggests that China's promises have been historically unreliable, a trend that continues in present-day border disputes. The author is identified as a Distinguished Fellow at the Centre of Excellence for Himalayan Studies at the Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, and the views expressed are personal.

Tags:

Military and Diplomatic Developments India-China Border Dispute Construction of Xiaokang Model Villages Historical Border Agreements

Anthee Carassava is a journalist based in Athens, Greece.

Sunak’s Elgin Marbles snub ‘disrespected the Greek people’

29 Nov 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Standoff

Britain and Greece are in a diplomatic standoff after Rishi Sunak cancelled a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis over the Elgin Marbles dispute. Greek ministers accused Sunak of a diplomatic indiscretion, claiming it was due to the Tories' poor polling. Downing Street countered, accusing Mitsotakis of breaking an agreement not to publicly discuss the marbles during his UK visit.

Tags:

Elgin Marbles Dispute Diplomatic Standoff

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

I am a freelance multimedia journalist based in India. My areas of interest include Politics, Human Rights, Hate crimes, Development, Climate, and Social issues. My work has appeared in several national and international Publications including Voice Of America, TRT World, The Daily Vox, HuffPost, ...

Infringement of India’s sovereignty, territorial integrity unacceptable: India objects to British envoy’s PoK visit

10 Jan 2024  |  www.news9live.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

The Ministry of External Affairs of India has raised serious concerns over the visit of British High Commissioner Jane Marriott to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, viewing it as an infringement on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The visit has deepened diplomatic tensions, particularly due to the significant diaspora interests in the region. In response, India's Foreign Secretary has lodged a formal protest, emphasizing the importance of respecting territorial boundaries and established diplomatic norms. This incident follows a similar visit by the US Ambassador to Pakistan, which also drew disapproval from India.

Tags:

Territorial Disputes Diplomatic Relations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Ahmed Fathi is a UN Correspondent and, global affairs analyst based in New York, NY and available for international assignments.

Kais Saied Misses Tunisia’s Economic Opportunity

01 Sept 2022  |  www.newslooks.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

The diplomatic tensions between Tunisia and Morocco have escalated following Tunisia's invitation to the Polisario Front leader to the TICAD 8 conference, leading Morocco to recall its ambassador and boycott events in Tunisia. This move has strained Tunisia's relations with Morocco and highlighted its growing ties with Algeria. The situation underscores the fragile geopolitical landscape in North Africa, with implications for regional stability and international relations. The article suggests a need for diplomatic efforts to mend the rift between the two nations.

Tags:

Sahara Dispute Diplomatic Relations North African Politics

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Eskinder Firew is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
He currently works for the Voice of America, Horn of Africa Service.He mostly reports in Ethiopian official language Amharic.He also reports in English when requested by the different services there.
When the South Sudan talks were ...

Ethiopia: No War to Access Sea, Says Ethiopia Prime Minister

04 Nov 2024  |  allAfrica.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Dispute

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the country's intention to gain access to the Red Sea through peaceful means amidst a diplomatic dispute with Somalia. The conflict arose after Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which Somalia views as a threat to its sovereignty. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre accused Ethiopia of attempting annexation under the guise of securing sea access, while Abiy denied any annexation intentions, highlighting a 50-year lease agreement with Somaliland. The situation has led to diplomatic tensions, including Somalia expelling an Ethiopian diplomat.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute Sea Access Ethiopia-Somalia Relations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Una Hajdari is an independent reporter largely focused on Central and Eastern Europe with experience in covering news on economic and political developments, as well as the far-right, nationalism and identity politics.

Czech Republic to sue Russia over unpaid rent for diplomatic buildings

07 Apr 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

The Czech Republic's foreign ministry is suing Russia for unpaid rent, claiming unjust enrichment of over 53 million Czech kruna (€2m) for the past three years. This legal action follows the Czech government's cancellation of agreements from the 1970s and 1980s that allowed the Soviet Union free use of land for diplomatic purposes. The dispute, which has been ongoing since at least 2020, has been exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Czech officials have indicated that profits from these lands should not support Russia's military actions. The strained relations between the two countries also stem from the 2014 explosion of an ammunition warehouse in Vrbětice, which was linked to Russian military intelligence officers. The Czech public is particularly sensitive to Russian actions due to historical invasions by Soviet forces, notably the 1968 Prague Spring.

Tags:

Legal Dispute Diplomatic Relations Historical Context

Kristina is a Canadian journalist based in Berlin with more than 15 years of experience, reporting across all platforms, as well as producing in television newsrooms. She has done a mix of video, radio and written reports, including for Euronews, NBC News, The Times of London, BBC, and DW among ...

Diplomatic Dispute Over WWII Statue

22 Oct 2024  |  ru.euronews.com  |  Russian  |  Diplomatic Dispute

A diplomatic dispute has arisen over a statue in Berlin commemorating victims of sexual violence by Japanese soldiers during World War II. The statue, supported by the Korea Verband, faces removal following pressure from Japan, which argues it presents a one-sided narrative. Berlin authorities are considering replacing it with a more general memorial. The controversy highlights tensions between Japan and South Korea, with implications for Berlin's diplomatic relations. Despite Japan's past apologies and financial reparations, the statue remains a point of contention, with local support for its preservation.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute World War II Sexual Violence

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

As Spain Correspondent for The Times of London for 11 years, I covered the Catalan independence drive, royal scandals and the rise of animal rights in a country famed for bullfighting.   Now I freelance for The Independent, the i paper, Reuters, The Telegraph and Al Jazeera among others. 
I am ...

What’s behind the Morocco-Germany diplomatic dispute?

08 Mar 2021  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Dispute

Morocco suspended contact with the German embassy and cultural organizations over differences regarding Western Sahara, a disputed territory. Spain, the former colonial ruler, seeks a UN-negotiated solution. The European Court of Justice heard submissions on the Morocco-EU trade agreement, which the Polisario Front, fighting for Western Sahara's independence, disputes. Germany's criticism of the US recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and exclusion from a Libya congress are also factors. Morocco's trade with Europe and the economic importance of Western Sahara are significant, with the EU and Morocco having a complex relationship over trade agreements and sovereignty claims.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute International Relations

Informative

Factuality Scale

Abdulkadir Khalif is a journalist based in Muqdisho, Somalia.

In row with Addis, Somalia is backed by traditional allies

05 Oct 2023  |  www.theeastafrican.co.ke  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

Somalia has rejected a port and sea access deal between Ethiopia and Somaliland, recalling its envoy from Addis Ababa. Despite Ethiopia's attempts to de-escalate tensions, Somalia's traditional allies, including Turkey, the Arab League, and the European Union, have supported its stance. The African Union and Igad have called for calm and mutual respect. The historical context of Somalia and Ethiopia's relationship, marked by past conflicts and alliances, adds complexity to the current dispute.

Tags:

Territorial Disputes Diplomatic Relations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Jeoffrey Maitem is a journalist based in Davao City, Philippines.

South China Sea: Philippine officials outraged, accuse Beijing of anti-wiretapping law violation over ‘new model’ phone call

09 May 2024  |  South China Morning Post  |  English  |  Diplomatic Conflict

Philippine officials, including Defence Chief Gilberto Teodoro Jnr and Military Chief General Romeo Brawner Jnr, have accused Beijing of violating the country's Anti-Wire Tapping Law after the Chinese embassy in Manila released a transcript of a phone call allegedly confirming a maritime agreement. The deal, which was supposedly agreed upon by Western Command Chief Vice-Admiral Alberto Carlos, involved protocols for the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippines followed the agreement in February but faced aggressive actions from the Chinese coastguard in March. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año and others have denied the legitimacy of the agreement, calling it fabricated. Opposition senator Risa Hontiveros and retired Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio have also weighed in, with Carpio stating that any such deal is invalid and the embassy should be called out for improper communication.

Tags:

South China Sea Dispute Diplomatic Conflict International Relations

Informative

Factuality Scale

Neutral

Political View

With over 5 years experience in Print and Digital media, I've been covering issues on/in Indo-Bangladesh border, Drug Smuggling, Border Security etc for media as well as global research organization. 

As the Senior editor of New Delhi based The CEO Magazine ( and the group's other publication), ...

Amid talks of diplomatic ties with China, Bhutan King reaches India on 8-day visit

06 Oct 2023  |  www.dhakatribune.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk arrived in India for an eight-day state visit amid ongoing border disputes and talks of establishing diplomatic relations with China. The visit includes meetings with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials, as well as visits to Assam and Maharashtra. Discussions are expected to focus on the China factor, including territorial claims over the Doklam Plateau and potential diplomatic ties. The visit underscores efforts to strengthen the special relationship between Bhutan and India, with initiatives such as a proposed railway link and educational opportunities for Bhutanese students in Assam.

Tags:

Border Dispute Diplomatic Relations

Informative

Factuality Scale

Naba Mohiedeen is a journalist based in Khartoum, Sudan.

Sudan Recalls Envoy to Ethiopia As Tensions High

17 Feb 2021  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia for consultations amid escalating tensions between the two countries. The recall was confirmed by Sudan's foreign ministry spokesman, Mansour Boulad. The tensions are primarily due to disputes over the Al-Fashaqa border region, which is fertile land cultivated by Ethiopian farmers but claimed by Sudan. Both nations have accused each other of territorial violations and violence in the area. Additionally, there is controversy surrounding Ethiopia's Blue Nile dam, which is another point of contention between the two countries. The Sudanese envoy is expected to return after the consultations are completed, although no details were provided on the discussions.

Tags:

Border Dispute Diplomatic Relations Blue Nile Dam

Daniel Mumbere is a journalist based in Kampala, Uganda.

Ethiopia PM receives Eritrean delegation, says 'visit is foundation for brighter future'

26 Jun 2018  |  www.africanews.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed received an Eritrean delegation, marking the first high-level contact in nearly two decades. The visit aims to resolve a longstanding border dispute and is seen as a foundation for a brighter future. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki welcomed Ethiopia's peace offer, leading to this historic visit. The border conflict, which began in 1998, has kept the two nations at odds, but recent developments suggest a potential thaw in relations.

Tags:

Border Dispute Diplomatic Relations

Factual

Factuality Scale

Milivoje Pantovic is a investigative journalist based in Beograd, Serbia. He is specialized in the fields of domestic politics, foreign politics and culture. Milivoje was a journalist and editor in Serbian news agencies Tanjug and Beta, TV stations B92 and BK, newspaper "Politika", editor in ...

Serbia Slates EU Response to Complaints About Croatia

01 Sept 2016  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Diplomatic Disputes

Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic and his government criticized the European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker's response to a letter Vucic sent in August, which complained about anti-Serbian policies in Croatia. Vucic and other Serbian officials, including Vice Prime Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic and Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, expressed dissatisfaction with the EU's perceived double standards and lack of action against Croatia's nationalist actions. The Serbian government accused the EU of ignoring anti-Serbian policies and jeopardizing regional peace and stability.

Tags:

Diplomatic Disputes EU Relations Nationalism

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View

Ugo Poletti is a journalist based in Odessa, Ukraine.

Founder and Editor-in-Chief of “The Odessa Journal”, digital media platform in English about culture, history, social and business life in Odessa, biggest port and cultural capital of Black Sea region

Ukraine Sends PM to Polish Border Amid Blockade Row

06 Oct 2023  |  Kyiv Post  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

Ukraine's president has dispatched Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to the Polish border for talks aimed at resolving a blockade by Polish farmers, which is affecting Ukrainian exports and weapon deliveries. Relations between Ukraine and Poland have deteriorated over the blockade, with Poland showing reluctance to engage in immediate ministerial negotiations. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has proposed inter-governmental talks in Warsaw next month instead. The blockade by Polish farmers, protesting against cheap Ukrainian grain imports, marks another strain in the bilateral relations, following a recent similar dispute.

Tags:

Trade Dispute Diplomatic Relations War in Ukraine

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Marseille-based journalist specialized in print and digital features (The New York Times, The Washington Post, BBC, Euronews) covering a range of topics, from human rights to travel. Fluent in French.

Macron’s Morocco visit turns the page on years of hostility

02 Dec 2024  |  www.courthousenews.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Relations

French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Morocco marks a significant diplomatic shift, ending years of strained relations between the two countries. Macron's support for Morocco's claim over Western Sahara has been pivotal, despite Algeria's opposition. The visit resulted in substantial economic agreements, including deals in energy and infrastructure, with companies like Alstom and TotalEnergies involved. This diplomatic engagement is seen as beneficial for both nations, with France seeking to manage immigration flows and Morocco gaining international support for its territorial claims.

Tags:

Western Sahara Dispute Diplomatic Relations France-Morocco Relations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Kathy  Kate Short is a Zambian broadcast Journalist with more than 20 years of work experience through her work with Radio Phoenix, Christian Voice, and some of the world's top international broadcasters. In 2022, she started contributing to the Voice of America's English for Africa news as well as ...

Zambians protest 'death threats' against their president

09 Sept 2023  |  www.dw.com  |  English  |  Diplomatic Tensions

A diplomatic standoff has escalated between Zambia and Zimbabwe following reported death threats against Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, allegedly originating from Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF. The threats are linked to a critical report on Zimbabwe's recent election by the SADC, which ZANU-PF contests. Zambian officials plan to address the issue through diplomatic channels involving the SADC, African Union, and United Nations. Analysts view the tension as a contest between the two countries' ruling parties, with calls for calm and resolution to maintain regional stability. The situation could undermine the unity and collaboration within the SADC, highlighting the need for regional bodies to enforce institutional rules and accountability.

Tags:

Election Disputes Diplomatic Tensions Protests

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Elliot Smith is a British multimedia journalist with eight years' domestic and international experience covering geopolitics, economics, business and sport, most recently working as a full-time Correspondent for CNBC in London.

Having recently relocated to Copenhagen, he will now be available to ...

U.S. slams ‘meritless' Israel genocide suit, reigniting tensions with South Africa

10 Oct 2023  |  NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth  |  English  |  Diplomatic Tensions

The International Court of Justice is set to hear a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, a move criticized by the U.S. as meritless. This lawsuit exacerbates existing diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and South Africa, which have been strained over issues like South Africa's perceived closeness to Russia and China. The article highlights the historical and political context of South Africa's stance, including its solidarity with Palestine rooted in anti-apartheid ideology. The upcoming South African elections and potential coalition dynamics are also discussed, with implications for the ruling African National Congress and its foreign policy positions.

Tags:

Legal Disputes Diplomatic Tensions International Relations

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center-Left

Political View

Murtaza Solangi is print/radio/TV journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Trump and Khan brawl on Twitter: what does it mean for the US-Pakistan relationship?

20 Nov 2018  |  South China Morning Post  |  English  |  Diplomatic Dispute

The article discusses the Twitter exchange between US President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, highlighting the implications for US-Pakistan relations. Trump criticized Pakistan for not doing enough in the war on terror, while Khan defended Pakistan's sacrifices. The spat has escalated amid Pakistan's financial struggles and internal political instability. Various experts provide differing views on the significance of the exchange, with some downplaying its impact on bilateral relations and others emphasizing the need for a new approach in US policy towards Pakistan.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute US-Pakistan Relations War on Terror

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

Faïza Soulé Youssouf is a journalist based in Moroni, Comoros. Outre la presse locale, je suis la correspondante de l’AFP, de Mayotte et Réunion la 1ere. Je collabore également avec Afrique XXI, Libération. J’ai également écrit des articles pour le Monde et Mediapart. Je suis très informée, ...

Comoros stands against Mayotte's 'Operation Wuambushu': an operation 'neither friendly nor respectful of human rights'

25 Apr 2023  |  Libération  |  French  |  Diplomatic Dispute

The Union of Comoros has taken a stand against France's controversial 'Operation Wuambushu' in the ongoing dispute over Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The Comoros public views the prohibition of the Maria Galanta ship, which was carrying irregular Comorian immigrants from Mayotte, as a victory. Mayotte's sovereignty is still claimed by the Comoros, and all parties involved are hopeful for an agreement.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute Immigration

Brussels editor at MLex. Available as a broadcast guest.

Qatar Tries to Ease Food-Supply Fears as Crowds Throng Shops

06 Jun 2017  |  NDTV Profit  |  English  |  Diplomatic Dispute

Qatar is taking measures to ensure a steady food supply amid a Saudi-led boycott, with the Ministry of Economy and Commerce assuring that prices remain stable. The country, heavily reliant on imports, is exploring alternative sources from countries like India and Iran. Despite initial panic buying, the government maintains that strategic reserves are sufficient. The diplomatic rift, driven by accusations of Qatar supporting extremist groups, has led to the cessation of some imports from Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E., but officials and analysts believe the impact will be short-lived.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute Food Supply Economic Impact

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View

William Wroblewski is a journalist based in La Paz, Bolivia. Living and working in the region since January 2014, he is the rare local producer who both knows the area intimately, and also has also worked with global-level media organisations and companies and understands the ever-changing media ...

Chile and Bolivia thaw relations after 11 years but leave out maritime issue

07 May 2021  |  infobae  |  Spanish  |  Diplomatic Relations

Chile and Bolivia have decided to resume dialogue after 11 years, focusing on a new roadmap that excludes Bolivia's long-standing maritime claim. The discussions, which took place in La Paz, aim to normalize bilateral relations but do not signify the resumption of formal diplomatic ties. The roadmap includes cooperation on economic, cultural, environmental, and security issues but leaves out Bolivia's demand for sea access, which was previously dismissed by the International Court of Justice. Both countries have other ongoing disputes, including the status of the Silala River.

Tags:

Maritime Dispute Diplomatic Relations

Informative

Factuality Scale

Saurabh Yadav is a journalist based in New Delhi, India.

Portfolio -****

His work has appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald, Newsclick.com, The Telegraph UK, The Hindu Business Line, The Caravan, The Times of London, Anadolu Agency.
He has worked with the Hindu Group of newspapers and the ...

Milkman’s son, assassin’s target: Family of Sikh activist killed in Canada speaks

28 Sept 2023  |  Brisbane Times  |  English  |  Diplomatic Dispute

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist and leader of a fringe independence movement, was assassinated in Canada, leading to a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada. His family and village in Punjab are divided in their views, with some defending him and others fearing reprisals. The Indian government has labeled Nijjar a terrorist, while Canada has accused India of involvement in his murder, leading to diplomatic expulsions and the suspension of Indian visa services for Canadians. The Khalistan movement, which Nijjar supported, remains a fringe issue with limited backing.

Tags:

Diplomatic Dispute Sikh Independence Movement Assassination

Balanced

Factuality Scale

Center

Political View