Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in discussions with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, emphasized that India and China should foster mutual understanding and avoid suspicion or alienation. The meeting follows an October agreement on disengaging forces at Demchok and Depsang along the LAC. Wang underscored the importance of improving bilateral relations for the benefit of the Global South. Talks included resuming the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, cross-border river data sharing, and border trade. Recent high-level engagements reflect efforts to normalize ties strained by a four-year standoff. India remains cautious, addressing issues like visa restrictions and further de-escalation in Ladakh.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed Haryana to submit a report by January 28 on allegations by AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi about high ammonia levels in Yamuna water disrupting Delhi’s water supply. Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal accused BJP-ruled Haryana of contaminating water ahead of Delhi assembly elections, labeling it "political sabotage." Atishi claimed 30% of Delhi faces water shortages due to affected treatment plants. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini dismissed the claims as baseless. The ECI's involvement underscores the issue’s significance during election season, with both sides exchanging sharp accusations.

Colombia agreed to accept deported migrants on US military planes without restrictions after former President Donald Trump threatened 25% tariffs on Colombian goods. Initially, President Gustavo Petro demanded humane treatment for deportees, rejecting military deportation flights. The White House hailed the agreement as a win for Trump's firm stance, warning tariffs could still be imposed if Colombia breaches the deal. Visa sanctions and inspections at US borders remain until the first deportees return. Colombia’s foreign minister, Luis Murillo, pledged to ensure dignity for deported citizens and announced further discussions in Washington to address migrant issues.

Thousands of Palestinians displaced by a 15-month conflict began returning to northern Gaza on Monday after Israel reopened crossings under a truce deal. The agreement, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, followed Hamas' commitment to release six hostages, including Israeli soldier Agam Berger. Residents returned to inspect devastated homes, carrying belongings on foot. Israeli military cautioned against transferring weapons during the passage. The ceasefire, aimed at ending the bloodshed that claimed 47,000 Palestinian lives, allows 650,000 residents to move back north. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's resolve to recover all hostages while warning against violations of the truce.

Jasprit Bumrah has been named ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year for 2024 after an extraordinary performance, taking 71 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 14.92. Bumrah's brilliance shone in both home and overseas matches, including 32 wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. He outperformed contenders Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Kamindu Mendis to become the first Indian pacer to win the honor. Bumrah’s contributions were crucial in India’s victories against England, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Australia. He is the fourth Indian bowler to claim over 70 Test wickets in a calendar year.

The parents of a 31-year-old doctor, raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College, have opposed the death penalty for Sanjoy Roy, convicted of the crime. Representing them, lawyer Gargi Goswami told the Calcutta High Court that “taking another life won’t bring their daughter back.” The West Bengal government and CBI have appealed the Sealdah Court’s life sentence, seeking capital punishment. Advocate General Kishore Dutta argued the trial court's decision was inadequate. Justice Debangsu Basak acknowledged both appeals and reserved the verdict. The case highlights debates on judicial sentencing and victims' rights in India.

Elon Musk made a surprise address at Germany's far-right AfD party’s campaign launch in Halle, drawing 4,500 supporters. Musk, speaking live via video, called AfD Germany’s “best hope” ahead of the February 23 election, sparking cheers. He urged national pride over multiculturalism and highlighted the election’s global significance. His involvement drew criticism, with tens of thousands protesting AfD in Berlin and Cologne. Climate activist Luisa Neubauer accused AfD of “endangering lives.” Musk’s political actions, including his alliance with AfD leader Alice Weidel, have alarmed European leaders, with Germany accusing him of election interference.

The Trump administration has suspended all foreign aid and initiated a comprehensive review of financial assistance to ensure alignment with the "America First" agenda. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that President Trump emphasized ending "blindly doling out money" without benefiting the American people. Secretary of State Marco Rubio paused all assistance via the State Department and USAID, pledging a thorough evaluation to safeguard taxpayers’ investments. In 2023, USAID allocated $45 billion across 158 countries, including $400M to Bangladesh and $175M to India. Rubio stressed that aid must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

South Korea's impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has been charged with insurrection following his attempt to declare martial law in December. Yoon's controversial move, meant to address "anti-state" forces, sparked a national crisis and led to his impeachment by parliament. He faces trial alongside his former defense minister and military commanders. Opposition leaders condemned his actions, with thousands protesting his bid for power. The Constitutional Court is deliberating on whether to formally remove him from office. Insurrection charges carry severe penalties, though execution is unlikely. If removed, a presidential election must be held within 60 days.

Israel announced that Palestinians could return to northern Gaza after Hamas agreed to release six more hostages. The ceasefire, aimed at resolving the 15-month conflict, has enabled hostages' staggered release and humanitarian aid delivery. Former U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial proposal to relocate Gazans to Egypt or Jordan drew backlash from Arab nations, with Jordan and Egypt rejecting the idea as "ethnic cleansing." The United Nations labeled Gaza's humanitarian situation as "dire," with thousands displaced. Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 47,306 people in Gaza and 1,210 in Israel have lost their lives.