Robert Francis Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV: First American Pontiff in Catholic History
In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope on Thursday, becoming the first U.S.-born pontiff in history. Taking the name Leo XIV, the 69-year-old former missionary and bishop in Peru steps into the papacy following the death of Pope Francis. With decades of pastoral and Vatican leadership experience, Pope Leo XIV is expected to bring a spirit of global unity and renewal to the Church.
UK in Talks with India on Shared Access to Cultural Artefacts, Says Minister Amid Kohinoor Diamond Question
During her visit to India, UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said Britain is in discussions with India to enhance shared access to cultural artefacts, including those acquired during the colonial era. In response to questions about the Kohinoor diamond, she emphasized cooperation over repatriation. A new UK-India cultural cooperation agreement was also signed to boost collaboration in heritage conservation, museum management, and the creative industries.
‘India Is Not a Serious Country’: Outrage Grows Over Deepening Ties with Pro-Pakistan Turkey
India is facing mounting criticism for maintaining close aviation and diplomatic ties with Turkey, despite Ankara’s growing defence partnership with Pakistan and repeated statements against India on Kashmir. Experts argue that India is inadvertently empowering a hostile nation, especially through a lucrative codeshare deal between IndiGo and Turkish Airlines. The backlash intensified after Turkish military aircraft delivered defence cargo to Pakistan shortly after a deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan Test Fires Upgraded Abdali Ballistic Missile Amid Soaring Tensions with India
Pakistan conducted a test launch of its upgraded Abdali ballistic missile on Saturday, significantly increasing the missile's range to 450 km amid heightened tensions with India. The test, part of a military drill called "Exercise Indus," came just hours after Indian authorities warned the move would be seen as a provocative escalation following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Pakistani FM Stations Halt Airing of Indian Songs Amid Rising Tensions with India
In response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, Pakistani FM radio stations have halted the broadcast of Indian songs. The Pakistan Broadcasters Association enforced the ban amid rising tensions with India, with Information Minister Atta Tarar calling it a reflection of national unity during a time of crisis.
