Issue Briefs

The Chabahar Port and India-Iran Agreement
On 13 May 2024, India and Iran signed a 10-year long-term contract for operation of Shahid Behesti terminal at the Chabahar port in Iran, eight years after concluding the general framework of cooperation on the Chabahar port. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed in May 2015 for the development of this port by India and on 23 May 2016, the contract was executed during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Iran.
Widening gulf between Pakistan and AJK
Although most of the demands have been accepted― of course, not before securitizing the political issue by deploying FC, Rangers along with police to use force against the protesters― the people of AJK are unlikely to forget the ordeal they have had to pass through, for the last more than six months, which has certainly steeled their nerves.
National Report by China in the 45th UPR Session: Hiding More than it Reveals
China’s report on human rights in the 45th session of the UPR on 23 January 2024 has drawn the attention of human rights activists worldwide. It has painted a rosy picture of the human rights situation within China.



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Forthcoming BRICS Summit 2026 in Delhi : Can India Seize the Moment?
Mohammed Badrul Alam
India chairs the 2026 BRICS Summit amid geopolitical turmoil, balancing internal divides and global pressures. Its agenda prioritises resilience, innovation, and Global South solidarity for a more equitable world order.
Silencing Dissent, Fuelling Despair: The Arrest of Mahrang Baloch and the Dangerous Transformation of the Baloch Conflict
Syed Eesar Mehdi
The article examines how Mahrang Baloch’s imprisonment and the rise of female suicide bombers reflect a dangerous convergence of shrinking democratic space and evolving militancy, challenging Pakistan’s long-term strategy for restoring peace and order.
Fusion of Sushi and Samosa: Evaluating Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi’s Visit to India
Mohammed Badrul Alam
Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi’s visit to India underscores a robust strategic partnership. Driven by China's regional dominance, both democracies are aligning on defence, technology, and economic diversification to secure a balanced Indo-Pacific.