China, EU mark fifty years of diplomatic ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday exchanged congratulatory messages with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, according to Xinhua.
President Xi stressed the worldwide significance of China-EU relations, stating that they had helped to promote mutual development and global stability. He indicated his willingness to improve cooperation, increase mutual openness, and resolve disagreements through communication.
Xi also advocated for collaborative efforts to maintain fairness and justice in international affairs, while rejecting unilateral moves and bullying on the global stage, Xinhua reported.
Xi to visit Russia for Victory Day and talks with Putin
Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia from May 7 to 10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat, the Kremlin has announced. He will meet with President Vladimir Putin to strengthen strategic ties and sign bilateral agreements, Reuters reported.
Leaders from Brazil, Serbia, and Slovakia are also expected. Putin suggested a three-day ceasefire with Ukraine around May 9 Victory Day, but Ukrainian President Zelensky insisted on a 30-day truce, citing security concerns for visiting dignitaries. Zelensky also accused China of sending weapons to Russia, as stated by Reuters.
In a state media documentary, Putin hailed ties with China as "deep-seated" and "truly strategic".
Ukrainian troops to join UK parade on VE day
Ukrainian forces will participate in a British military parade on Monday to honor the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, which commemorates Nazi Germany's surrender in 1945, Reuters reported.
The parade will include about 1,000 UK forces, as well as troops from Ukraine, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, to emphasize international support for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.
Defence Minister John Healey described Ukraine's participation as "fitting" as Europe prepares for its first full-scale battle since World War Two, according to Reuters.
The UK, a strong supporter of Ukraine, will organize a number of commemorative activities, including a Westminster Abbey service attended by the royal family.
India, France to sign their mega deal for Rafale-Marine fighter jets
India and France will sign a Rs 63,000 crore agreement on Monday for 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets, officials said. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and the French Ambassador will sign the deal in Delhi; defence ministers of both nations will join virtually, according to the Firstpost.
Cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security on April 9, the contract covers 22 single-seat and four twin-seat Rafale M aircraft, along with maintenance, training, logistics, and indigenous production support.
The Rafale M jets will be deployed on INS Vikrant to bolster carrier-based operations amid performance issues with the MiG-29K fleet. The acquisition is a stopgap measure until India’s indigenous carrier-borne fighter is ready, Firstpost reported.
Sources said the signing event is likeli to be held outside the Defence Ministry headquarters at South Block.The addition will expand India’s Rafale fleet to 62, enhancing its 4.5-generation fighter strength.
