US Navy Diverts Ships from Strait of Hormuz Amidst Iranian Authority Establishment

Nepal and Switzerland convened their fifth Bilateral Consultation Mechanism meeting in Kathmandu, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations. The discussions focused on bilateral cooperation, Nepal's governance reforms, anti-corruption measures, transparency, digital transformation, and public service delivery, alongside key economic sectors like hydropower, tourism, and IT. Both nations agreed to expedite pending agreements and discussed climate change and multilateral cooperation.

EU member states have formally approved a compromise to implement a trade deal with the United States, which now awaits final approval from the European Parliament. The agreement aims to cap US levies on European goods and involves reciprocal tariff adjustments, with safeguards in place should the US not uphold its commitments. This move is intended to prevent potential US tariffs on EU imports.

New Zealand's Non-Resident Ambassador to Nepal, Patrick John Rata, held separate meetings with Nepal's Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai on May 27. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation between Nepal and New Zealand.

China has warned that countries "forming cliques" and provoking conflict are "unpopular," following concerns raised by Quad foreign ministers regarding stability in the East and South China Seas. The Quad ministers had criticized "dangerous manoeuvres by military aircraft" and "ramming and blocking actions in the South China Sea," reiterating opposition to "destabilising or unilateral actions" in a joint statement. China's foreign ministry spokeswoman stated that the situation in the East and South China Seas remains stable and urged relevant countries to stop interfering in China's maritime affairs.