India's Proximity Archives
South Asia
Pakistan has stepped up its mediation efforts forthe US-Iran conflict. The second meeting of the Quadrilateral Consultation group, comprising the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt, took place in Islamabad on March 29th. The press release stated that discussions were held regarding possible strategies to cease hostilities in the US-Iran war. According to the release, both the US and Iran have indicated their trust in Pakistan’s ability to mediate the discussions. During his trip to Beijing on March 31, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, met with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss the ongoing situation in the Gulf. The meeting concluded with the release of a joint “Five-Point Initiative,” which advocates an immediate halt to hostilities, the prompt commencement of peace talks, the safeguarding of non-military sites, the security of shipping routes, and adherence to the UN Charter.
Southeast Asia
On March 30, Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing was elected as a vice president by the lower house, moving closer to becoming the country’s civilian leader. Under the system, three Vice-Presidents are selected, with one later elevated to president through a Parliament-wide vote. Min Aung Hlaing received 247 of the 260 votes, a parliament official said. The upper house elected Nan Ni Ni Aye, a regional MP from Karen state with the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), as another vice president. A third vice president will be chosen by the military. Adecisive vote to determine the next president is expected later this week. Meanwhile, the junta officially announced a reshuffle in military leadership with former spymaster Gen. Ye Win Oo being appointed as commander-in-chief, replacing Min Aung Hlaing.
West Asia
On March 31, the U.S. and Israel targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities at Isfahanwith bunker-buster bombs. The Isfahan nuclear facility is reported to house a large quantity of Iran's 400 kg of Uranium enriched to 60 percent within an underground tunnel network. Meanwhile, President Trump issued a warning to Tehran, stating that the U.S. would destroy Iran's energy facilities and oil wells should it fail to open the Strait of Hormuz. There are plans on the table for U.S. ground operations in Iran, which would not amount to a full-scale invasion, but could involve thousands of troops and take weeks or months to complete. On the other hand, President Trump also spoke about winding down the Iran war “very soon”, even without a comprehensive agreement.
Central Asia
On March 31, Deputy Foreign Ministers of CSTO member states convened for face-to-face consultations, focusing on preparations for upcoming statutory meetings in April and May, engagement with third countries and international organisations, and the expansion of public diplomacy. The discussions underscored the CSTO’s effort to define its role within the evolving international order, highlighting the need to strengthen its visibility and credibility.Beyond organisational matters, participants addressed arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation, reflecting the bloc’s concern with global security frameworks. Member state delegations also emphasised reinforcing international agreements, enhancing regional security cooperation, and coordinating actions across specialised platforms. The consultations placed particular weight on peaceful conflict resolution and collective security measures, signalling the CSTO’s intent to project itself as both a stabilising force and a more authoritative actor in international diplomacy.
Indian Ocean Region
The Indian Navy hosted the IONS Maritime Exercise (IMEX) TTX 2026 at the Maritime Warfare Centre, Southern Naval Command in Kochi on March 27, 2026. The exercise saw participation from Bangladesh, France, Indonesia, Kenya, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Timor-Leste naval delegates, alongside distinguished officers from IONS member navies, IOS SAGAR international representatives, and the Indian Navy. Its primary objectives focused on enhancing shared understanding of operational approaches and constraints, examining coordination mechanisms such as information sharing and decision-making processes, and refining IONS frameworks—including validation of maritime security guidelines—through practical application.
