The India-United States relationship has surfaced as one of the most critical partnerships in the current world order, which shares global geopolitics, trade, and energy security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of the first leaders to visit President Trump in his second term. This reflects the weight of the relationship between India and the U.S. The visit can bring significance to Indo-US relations and promote global stability, economic growth, and technological innovation.

The major agenda of the visit was mainly focused on the areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade, defence, energy security, immigration, and technology.

Modi’s visit has strengthened ties and paved the way for future cooperation, addressing global concerns and promoting reciprocal development.

Speaker: Amb T P Sreenivasan

Former Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Vienna; Governor for India of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna; and Deputy Chief of Mission (Ambassadorial Rank) in the Embassy of India, Washington.

Moderator: Aleena T Sabu, Research Associate (International Relations) CPPR

Discussion Points

1. Key Agenda of Modi’s Visit to the US

2. Strategic and Geopolitical Implications

• 3. Implications on Bilateral Trade between India and US

  4. Future of India-US Relations in the Post-Trump era

On 3rd of December 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing threats from "anti-state forces." This unexpected move was met with widespread domestic and international criticism, as it was perceived to undermine democratic principles. Although Yoon retracted the martial law decree within hours, the action had already ignited significant political turmoil. Following that the National Assembly voted to impeach him from his office and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo took over the Presidential activities. but his rule also did not last long, as he was also impeached owing to complaints from the opposition that President Han Duck-soo was not ready to complete the impeachment process of President Yoon. The Constitutional Court now has up to 180 days to deliberate on whether to uphold the impeachment, which would result in Yoon's permanent removal and prompt a presidential election within 60 days. Today we are here to further understand Martial law, the impeachment of the President and further implications of this political act in South Korea.

Speaker: Dr Jojin V John, Assistant Professor and Hon. Director, Korea Centre, School of International Relations and Politics, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, & Senior Fellow (Geopolitics and East Asia), CPPR

Moderator: Aleena T Sabu, Research Associate, CPPR

Discussion Points

• Political and legal implications of the Martial Law in South Korea

• Implications of the Impeachment of the Presidents in South Korea

• Political instability and future of political leadership in South Korea

• Public sentiments and the power of democracy

The recent political unrest in Bangladesh and the subsequent resignation of Sheikh Hasina have raised concerns about the political future of the country as well as the international implications. The unrest, sparked by discontent over a government job quota system, had led to a nationwide curfew and internet shutdowns. But this crisis extends beyond the borders of Bangladesh, influencing its trade relations and geopolitical stance, particularly with neighbouring India and China. Bangladesh, a significant player in South Asian trade, is now navigating a delicate path. Its ties with India, a major trading partner, could be strained as instability hampers economic activities and disrupts supply chains. Meanwhile, China, which has been increasing its influence in the region through infrastructure investments and trade agreements, may see this as an opportunity to further its strategic interests, which is a major concern for India. Join us as we analyse these developments, their impact on regional dynamics, and the potential ripple effects on global trade.

Speaker: Dr. D Dhanuraj, CPPR

Moderator: Maalavika A, Research Associate, CPPR

Discussion Points

• How is the current situation going to affect India's neighbourhood relations and its Neighbourhood First Policy?

• What would India’s stance be if Bangladesh develops closer relations with China?

• How is Indo-Bangladesh trade going to be affected due to the recent developments?

• Will the recent events cause a shift in global apparel production and if so, will India have the opportunity and the resources to fill the void left by Bangladesh?