What happened?

President Droupadi Murmu will undertake a State visit to Portugal and Slovakia from 7-10 April 2025, marking key diplomatic engagements in Europe. The visit to Portugal on 7-8 April, at the invitation of President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, is the first by an Indian President in 27 years. It coincides with the 50th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations. President Murmu will hold delegation-level talks with President Rebelo de Sousa, meet Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, and engage with parliamentary leadership.

On 9-10 April, President Murmu will visit Slovakia, the first such visit in 29 years, at the invitation of President Peter Pellegrini. She will hold bilateral discussions with President Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico, along with interactions with the Slovak parliamentary leadership. In both countries, she will engage with the Indian diaspora.

Why it matters to India

The visit reinforces India’s diplomatic outreach in Europe, strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties with Portugal and Slovakia. Portugal’s position as a key European partner and its historical ties with India make the visit significant for expanding trade, technology collaboration, and strategic partnerships. Slovakia, an emerging economy in Central Europe, offers opportunities for investment and cooperation in manufacturing, technology, and energy. President Murmu’s engagements with political leadership in both nations will deepen bilateral ties and enhance India’s presence in the region.

What happened?

India and the US commenced the fourth edition of Tiger Triumph, a 13-day tri-service humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) exercise on 2 April 2025. The drill, taking place off India’s Eastern Seaboard, involves naval, army, and air force units from both countries. A joint command centre will be set up in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, alongside medical camps and amphibious operations. The exercise coincides with Operation Brahma, India’s relief mission to Myanmar after the 28 March earthquake.

Why it matters to India

The exercise enhances India’s operational coordination with the US in disaster response, reinforcing its role as a first responder in the Indo-Pacific. By integrating military and humanitarian capabilities, India strengthens strategic ties with the US while showcasing its leadership in regional disaster relief. The exercise also complements India’s ongoing assistance to Myanmar, further solidifying its influence in the Indian Ocean Region.

What happened?

Leaders of India and China exchanged congratulatory messages on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, President Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of cooperation. Both sides acknowledged recent diplomatic engagements, including meetings on border management and the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Why it matters to India

While relations remain strained due to the Ladakh standoff, the anniversary messages signal a willingness to stabilise ties. Recent talks on border management and trade resumption suggest a cautious reset in relations. China’s acknowledgment of India as a key partner in the Global South aligns with India’s broader diplomatic strategy. However, actual progress will depend on resolving long-standing border issues.

What happened?

President Gabriel Boric of Chile is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April 2025 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit marks 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Key agreements were signed, including a Letter of Intent on Antarctic cooperation, a Cultural Exchange Programme, and MoUs on disaster management and critical minerals. Both leaders launched negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to deepen trade ties. Chile announced a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons, and both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in pharmaceuticals, digital technology, and defence.

Why it matters to India

The visit underscores India’s growing trade and strategic engagement with Latin America. The CEPA negotiations aim to boost bilateral trade and investment, while agreements on critical minerals secure India’s supply of key resources for clean energy and technology. Defence cooperation, Antarctic research, and digital transformation partnerships align with India’s broader global outreach and technological aspirations. Chile’s support for India’s permanent UNSC seat bid further strengthens diplomatic ties.