Diplomacy

Azerbaijan, Iran agree to improve relations through dialogue

The two countries decided to set aside offensive rhetoric and focus on intensifying bilateral relations through constructive talks.

Algeria cuts diplomatic relations with Morocco over 'hostile actions'

Algeria's Foreign Minister Ramtane Lamamra blamed Morocco's leaders for "responsibility for repeated crises" and behaviour that has "led to conflict instead of integration" in North Africa, after months of tensions among two neighbours.

Turkey's Cavusoglu hails 'successful' Antalya Diplomacy Forum meeting

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says the forum was one of the first and biggest international events during the pandemic and it was held under compliance with all health measures.

Iran-China deal: the pro-agreement and anti-agreement division returns

Tehran and Beijing signed a 25-year bilateral agreement over the weekend, becoming a subject of both celebration and condemnation.

Western leaders close ranks to counter China

US President Biden is keen to take a multilateral approach as he looks to enlist NATO allies and the EU in a united front of democracies to challenge China.

Antony Blinken's neo-colonial letter to Afghanistan

The US Secretary of State’s ultimatum to President Ashraf Ghani underscored a blatant disregard for democracy in Afghanistan.

How does Israel stand in the way of nuclear diplomacy with Iran?

Regional experts say Tel Aviv's threats are aimed at deterring the Biden administration from re-entering the Iran nuclear deal.

Trump administration re-designates Cuba as state sponsor of terrorism

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the step, citing in particular Cuba’s continued harbouring of US fugitives as well as its support for Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

Trapped between Asian giants, can Sri Lanka's foreign policy stay neutral?

Reviving a stagnant economy and managing the country’s relations with major powers will be important priorities for the new Rajapaksa government.

N Korea fires two projectiles into sea off eastern coast - S Korea

North Korea fired two unidentified projectiles into the sea, said South Korea, in the latest launch that came shortly after US President Donald Trump said he had received a "very beautiful letter" from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Pakistan plans to relax visa policy in bid to revive tourism

Former Real Madrid soccer stars Kaka of Brazil and Portuguese playmaker Luis Figo were recently denied visas to the country for a promotional visit, Pakistan's information minister said, highlighting the nation's laborious visa process.

Russia expels Greek diplomats in retaliatory move

Russia summoned Greek Ambassador Andreas Friganas as Moscow takes tit-for-tat measures after Athens expelled two Russian diplomats.