External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Sailani Avenue in Perth, Australia dedicated to Indian-origin soldier Nain Singh Sailani, who sacrificed his life in World War I. The avenue honors 12 Anzacs from the Indian community, two of whom lost their lives in a German offensive campaign. Jaishankar, attending the Indian Ocean Conference, expressed gratitude to veterans and Indian community leaders during his visit. Nain Singh Sailani, a former laborer, joined the Australian Imperial Force in 1916, receiving posthumous recognition with three medals. The Shimla-born soldier rests in Belgium alongside comrades who fell in action.

A 41-year-old Indian-origin executive, Vivek Chander Taneja, was killed in the US after an alleged assault outside a Washington restaurant on February 2. This marks the fifth case of an Indian American killed in the US this year. Taneja sustained critical injuries and succumbed on February 7, with his death ruled a 'homicide'. The Metropolitan Police Department's Homicide Branch is seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect, offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to their arrest and conviction. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police.

US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, expressed regrets over recent attacks on Indian students in the United States, affirming the Biden administration's commitment to ensuring their safety. Amidst concerns over rising violence, Garcetti emphasized collaboration with the Indian government to address security challenges. The statement follows a surge in incidents, including the attack on Syed Mazahir Ali in Chicago, which garnered widespread attention. Indian students, facing precarious security conditions, seek medical and legal assistance, highlighting the urgency of safeguarding their well-being. Garcetti's reassurance underscores efforts to uphold America as a secure destination for international students.

Nawaz Modi, estranged wife of Indian textiles tycoon Gautam Singhania, has lodged fresh allegations of surveillance and harassment against him. Amidst ongoing divorce negotiations, Modi accuses Singhania of installing spyware in her car and orchestrating threats against her and their children. She further alleges his staff forcibly occupied her father's property and maligns her character with false accusations. Singhania refutes the claims, labeling them as "false and baseless." The acrimonious dispute, marked by a viral video of Modi being denied entry to a company event, highlights the unraveling of their marital ties and legal battles over Singhania's $1.4bn fortune.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong during a visit to Perth for the 7th Indian Ocean Conference. Topics included the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, Indo-Pacific dynamics, and the situation in West Asia. Joined by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan, they participated in the conference's inaugural session. Organized by India's Ministry of External Affairs, this edition focuses on achieving stability and sustainability in the Indian Ocean region. The conference draws delegations from over 22 countries and aims to foster cooperation for Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).

Emirates Airlines has rolled out a convenient pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian travelers, in collaboration with VFS Global. Exclusive to those holding a valid six-month visa for the US, US Green Card, EU Residency, or UK Residency and booked with the airline, the initiative began on February 1. This service enables Indian passport holders to bypass queues upon arrival in Dubai, streamlining the entry process. With Dubai being a favored destination for Indian travelers, the move is anticipated to enhance the overall travel experience, emphasizing convenience and efficiency for Emirates customers.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu adjusts stance on the Indian troop removal issue, emphasizing the need for calm dialogue instead of confrontation. Initially, Muizzu set a deadline for India to withdraw troops, accusing them of bullying. However, facing backlash from the public and opposition, he now acknowledges the importance of diplomatic norms and clear communication. Former President Abdulla Yameen attributes strained relations with India to derogatory remarks by deputy ministers. As the diplomatic fallout continues, calls for Muizzu to apologize to India emerge. The Indian troop presence in the Maldives has been a point of contention, with ongoing discussions on the matter.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the recent deaths of five Indian students in the United States are unrelated, with "no foul play or connection." MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided details during a weekly briefing, emphasizing that two were Indian nationals, and three were of Indian origin with US citizenship. Investigations are ongoing, and the MEA is actively collaborating with local authorities, consulates, and missions to assist affected families. The MEA stressed the independence of each case, urging recognition that there is "no interconnectedness" among the incidents involving Indian students and individuals of Indian origin in the US.

India has announced plans to replace its military personnel stationed at aviation platforms in the Maldives with skilled technical personnel, following a formal request for troop withdrawal from the Mohamed Muizzu-led Maldives government. The Ministry of External Affairs revealed the decision after a second high-level core group meeting in New Delhi, stating that the process will commence by March 10 and be completed by May 10. Both nations have agreed on mutually workable solutions to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and medvac services in the Maldives. The budget for the Maldives has been revised to ₹779 crore, up from the projected ₹600 crore.

India's Ministry of External Affairs dismissed Canadian Security Intelligence Service's (CSIS) allegations of Indian interference in Canadian elections, asserting it's not India's policy to interfere in other countries' democratic processes. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated Canada has been meddling in India's internal affairs. The statement follows a declassified document citing India as a concern for foreign interference. Tensions between the two nations have escalated, notably over allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India suspended visas for Canadians after Trudeau's claims, leading to diplomatic strains and stalled trade negotiations.