China, though formally a Communist nation with a mixed market economy, has been able to achieve economic superiority compared with India which is trying to catch up by stressing its democratic politics, civil society and peaceful intentions. The approach most suitable to India’s character and ambitions is one of “soft power"...

Commonwealth Games 2010 will not be about sports only, it would also have other elements to make it more vibrant and colourful. One such component that would add more colour to the mega-event will be Australia''s cultural representation at the Games.

The South Asian University (SAU), which is a first of its kind joint venture for the eight member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), began its first academic session on August 26 this year, with an initial batch of 50 students.

If the underlying intent of international aid projects is to “win the hearts and minds” of the Afghan people, then by many measures the United States is failing. Despite investing nearly $50 billion in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, only half of Afghans polled last year have a somewhat favorable or better view of the United States.

Indian Defense Minister A.K. Anthony was visiting South Korea last week at the invitation of his South Korean counterpart to boost defense cooperation between the two states. His visit comes two months after the Indian external affairs minister visited Seoul.

In July 2010, the Ministry of External Affairs sent its first ‘tweet’ through its official Twitter account, thus pulling India into the age of digital diplomacy. Despite being an information technology powerhouse, India is a late entrant in using tools of e-diplomacy...it is an apt moment to reflect on changes affecting the country’s diplomatic representation abroad. The basic change relates to the backdrop of India’s rising stock in the world.

Israel’s ambassador in India, Mark Sofer, visited the shrine of renowned Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer last Friday. Israel’s move to reach out to Muslims in India and Muslims in general is both shrewd and right.

“Taiwan is already well known in the film and television arena for its distinct artistic qualities. This film festival will give viewers an opportunity to experience the rich texture of Taiwan's unique film making style with the aim of sharing its rich cultural heritage, art and history through cinema,” Joy Yen, director information division, TECC, said in a statement.