Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

Dragon & Elephant Talk Peace

In Beijing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping struck a rare note of harmony at the SCO summit. After years of border tensions, both leaders stressed that India and China are “partners, not rivals,” agreeing to resume direct flights and even restart the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Xi said it was “vital for the dragon and elephant to walk together” in shaping a multipolar world.

Macron Rekindles Two-State Push

In Paris, Emmanuel Macron reignited the two-state debate by recognizing Palestine, despite protests from Israel and the US. Macron argued Gaza’s humanitarian crisis demands urgent action, while critics warned recognition could embolden militants. Several Western nations may follow France’s lead at the UN next month.

India’s Next Biofuel Leap

New Delhi is moving its biofuel experiment off the roads and onto construction sites. Bulldozers, cranes and heavy carriers that consume nearly 4% of India’s diesel could soon run on blended fuels. The move cuts oil imports, lowers emissions, and boosts farmer incomes by using crop-based fuels.

Navarro Labels India ‘Maharaja of Tariffs’

White House trade advisor Peter Navarro sharpened his attack on India, calling it “a laundromat for the Kremlin” and the “Maharaja of tariffs,” even alleging “Brahmins are profiteering.” India hit back, saying its Russian oil buys are driven by national security, not politics.

India & Japan Seal $68B Pact

In Tokyo, Modi and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced a 10-year roadmap, with Japan pledging $68 billion in private investment into India. Both leaders called it a “golden chapter,” combining Japanese technology and Indian talent to drive growth, while reinforcing security ties in the Indo-Pacific.