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The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
BIMSTEC Gets a New Lease of Life
By Shafi Md Mostofa
In the 25 years of its existence, this Bay of Bengal grouping hasn't achieved much. That could change, with India viewing it as a vehicle for its strategic interests.
A Civilian Coup Subverted in Pakistan
By Niha Dagia
The Supreme Court has restored the National Assembly. Prime Minister Imran Khan will have to face a no-confidence vote in Parliament early Saturday.
Deuba’s India Visit Arrests Drift in India-Nepal Relations
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
The Varanasi leg of the Nepali PM’s visit to India was aimed at taking the wind off the sails of both Hindu nationalists and the main opposition back home.
India Partially Repeals Controversial AFSPA in the Northeast
By Rajeev Bhattacharyya
A massacre of civilians by soldiers in December last year, which triggered mass protests against the law, prompted the government to revoke it in some districts.
India Ramps Up Domestic Defense Production
By Ashok Sharma
It aims to draw foreign companies with advanced technologies to set up factories in India in collaboration with local companies.
How Much Should India Worry About Closer China-Russia Ties?
By Ameya Pratap Singh and Supriya Ravishankar
Russia won’t sacrifice its ties to India to please China – but Moscow also won’t back New Delhi against Beijing.
Al-Qaida Leader Circulates Video; Dispels Rumor of His Death
By Kathy Gannon
Rumors of the death of Ayman al-Zawahri have persistently circulated, but a new video appears to dispel those rumors.
Rajapaksa Clan Losing Grip on Power in Sri Lanka
By Sudha Ramachandran
The ruling coalition, which commanded a two-thirds majority last month, is now battling for survival.
Donors Fall Short on Afghan Aid Pledges Amid Widening International Rifts
By Catherine Putz
Divergences in approaches to Afghanistan map onto wider divergences between the United States and its allies and China, Russia, and their partners.
Sri Lanka’s Economic Crisis: An Opportunity for India to Reclaim Influence
By Mark S. Cogan and Dr. Dalbir Ahlawat
Continued instability on the island will have repercussions in India. That will be a burden for India, not for China.
India Rolls out Red Carpet for Russian Foreign Minister
By Mohamed Zeeshan
The West has warned India of consequences if it helps Moscow circumvent sanctions but this has not gone down well in Delhi
Sri Lanka Opposition Rejects Proposed Unity Government
By Krishan Francis
On Sunday, after large protests, all 26 Cabinet ministers resigned. President Rajapaksa's proposed unity government was refused and protests continue.