Twenty-five Indian passengers, initially suspected of human trafficking, have been released in France after a judge cited a procedural lapse by border police. The Bobigny public prosecutor's office stated that the release was due to the head of Charles De Gaulle airport border police not timely referring the case. The passengers, seeking political asylum, were freed on Tuesday, with minors placed under child welfare services. Originally bound for Nicaragua, their plane was grounded in France following an anonymous tip. Charges were dropped as it was confirmed passengers boarded voluntarily. The remaining 276 landed back in India.

Russia has officially endorsed India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During talks with Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov voiced support for India's aspirations. Lavrov also commended India's adept handling of contentious issues at the G20 Summit, labeling it a "true triumph" of Indian foreign policy. India, a long-time advocate for UNSC reform, seeks permanent membership in alignment with evolving global realities. The G20 Summit hosted by India earlier this year received acclaim for its inclusive and diplomatic approach on the Ukraine issue.

Russia and India have made significant progress in discussions on jointly producing military equipment, says Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov after talks with Indian EAM Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Lavrov emphasizes the strategic nature of this cooperation, enhancing security in the Eurasian continent. India's diversification of military suppliers is respected, with support for local manufacturing. President Putin is set to meet Jaishankar, with expectations for a Modi-Putin meeting next year. Discussions also covered Ukraine, Gaza conflicts, and bilateral trade. India, a key economic partner for Russia amid Western sanctions, anticipates trade exceeding $50 billion this year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday during Jaishankar's five-day visit to Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced, "Tonight, the president plans to receive Mr. Jaishankar." Jaishankar, emphasizing the robust India-Russia relationship, stated, "Our relationship has been very strong, very steady." Earlier, he held a "comprehensive and productive" meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Manturov, signing crucial agreements for the Kudankulam nuclear power plant. Despite Russia's invasion of Ukraine, ties between India and Russia remain consistent, with India advocating diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine crisis.

Dr. Shashank Vikram, Consul General in Birmingham, denied rumors of an extension, has gone back to New Delhi. He's set to take over the role of Consul General in Bali in upcoming New Year. Venkat Murugan steps in as his replacement in Birmingham, with Aman Bansal as the acting CG for now. Dr. Vikram, facing challenges in prior postings, successfully navigated the pro-Khalistani lobby during his three-year tenure, bringing positive changes, including a spike in visa applications from 5000 to 40000. His new assignment in Bali is anticipated to be less challenging due to the region's predominant Hindu population and strong cultural ties with India in the ASEAN partnership.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar kicked off his five-day Russia visit with a nostalgic touch, recalling childhood memories. Landing in Moscow, Jaishankar shared an entry pass from 1962, commemorating the first Russian cosmonauts in space at the Red Square. Visiting this iconic location as a seven-year-old left a lasting impression. Emphasizing the enduring ties, he highlighted the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership "The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership reflects experiences and sentiments of the last 75 years." He said, also urging the Indian community to deepen cooperation saying, "Contribute to the deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation." Jaishankar, set to meet Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, recognized the consistent bond between India and Russia over 70-80 years, even as both nations transformed.

India aims to secure easier market access for mangoes and grapes while fast-tracking visas for skilled workers in discussions with the US at the India-US Trade Policy Forum on January 13-14. The forum, co-chaired by Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, will address trade-related issues, including India's new authorization system for IT hardware imports. Despite assurances that the system won't expand, concerns linger, with the US fearing potential business obstacles. India's move to restrict imports, citing national security, will be discussed bilaterally. The talks also cover WTO cases and strengthening intellectual property rights between the two leading trading partners.

In response to a drone attack on merchant ship MV Chem Pluto, the Indian Navy deploys warships INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata in the Arabian Sea. The explosive ordnance disposal team inspects the vessel in Mumbai after it was hit off India's west coast. The attack, suspected to be a drone strike from Iran, raises concerns amid a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea. The Navy maintains a deterrent presence, and investigations are underway to determine the nature and origin of the attack. No injuries were reported.

An Airbus A340, carrying 276 passengers, predominantly Indians, was detained in France for four days over suspected human trafficking allegations. The flight, originating from Dubai, landed in Mumbai early this morning after being grounded at Vatry airport near Paris. French authorities confirmed 276 passengers boarded the plane, while 20, including five minors, sought asylum in France. The incident raises concerns amid a surge in Indians attempting illegal entry into the US, with the flight's connection to Nicaragua drawing attention. The investigation, now with France's anti-organized crime unit, carries potential severe consequences for human trafficking.

India emerges as the preferred emerging market for sovereign wealth funds and public pension schemes, with 40% favoring it over China, according to a survey by OMFIF. Concerns over Beijing's interventions in companies drive this trend, with China receiving backing from less than a quarter of surveyed managers. Regulatory challenges and geopolitical factors deter around 75% from investing in China. The surveyed funds, wielding a combined financial strength of $25.9 trillion, cite diversification and benchmark exposure as primary reasons for maintaining any investment in China. India's resilient economy gains traction, while China grapples with a deepening property crisis and sluggish growth, leading to hesitancy among long-term investors.