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The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
In Bangladesh, Islamists Are Stepping up Actions Against Women
By Subir Bhaumik
A series of troubling incidents have seen Islamic groups threaten violence to force the cancellation of women's football matches and store openings featuring Bangladeshi actresses.
Long and Winding Road to Restoring Trust in China-India Relations
By Rushali Saha
The statements issued by the two sides after the recent meeting in Beijing revealed subtle differences, which does not bode well.
Nepal Wants Green Hydrogen. But Does It Need It?
By Bibek Raj Kandel
Green hydrogen is being hailed as a new opportunity for Nepal to join the global energy transition. But the country’s priority should be electrification.
Bangladesh and Pakistan Are Changing South Asia’s Geopolitical Landscape
By Muqtedar Khan
Their growing alliance will not bring stability to the region. Rather, it will raise the geopolitical temperature and provoke more Indian pressure on Bangladesh.
Polio Diplomacy Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
By Bantirani Patro
Polio cases are surging in both countries. Can Pakistan and Afghanistan collaborate on eradicating the virus, even as their relations have soured?
Invitation to Visit India Eludes Nepali Prime Minister Oli
By Birat Anupam
Oli’s visit to China may have added to Delhi’s long-standing irritation with the Nepali leader.
A Subtle Shift in China’s Approach to Engaging With Pakistan?
By Umair Jamal
Its public critique of Pakistan's CPEC security woes risks deepening diplomatic strain.
Maldives Government Beset by Corruption Scandals
By Ahmed Naish
The opposition is planning a mass protest over the alleged theft of land plots and the misuse of the national identity card database.
With Foreign Aid Freeze and Immigration Restrictions, US Leaves Afghan Allies in the Cold
By Catherine Putz
Trump's executive orders on aid and immigration have effectively frozen the Afghan SIV program, stranding thousands of Afghans in the process of coming to the United States.
Challenges Ahead for India-Indonesia Cooperation
By Sudha Ramachandran
The much-anticipated announcement about Indonesia’s purchase of the BrahMos missile from India did not happen.
Delhi Assembly Polls: An Existential Test for All 3 Parties in the Fray
By Kavita Chowdhury
It has been 27 years since the BJP governed the capital. It is determined to unseat the ruling AAP in the state.
Sri Lanka’s Adani Controversy: Navigating Geopolitics, Transparency, and Sovereignty
By Rathindra Kuruwita
The NPP government has announced that it is reviewing the Adani Group’s $442 million wind power projects in Mannar and Pooneryn.
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