Pioneer in short
Trump, Xi discuss trade, Taiwan
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone on Monday to discuss trade, Taiwan, and the Ukraine crisis, nearly a month after their Busan summit. Xi emphasised that Taiwan’s return to China is “an integral part of the post-war international order” and highlighted the shared history of US-China cooperation during World War II. The call comes amid heightened regional tensions after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested possible military involvement if China acted against Taiwan, prompting Beijing’s rebuke. The US maintains strategic ambiguity over military intervention in Taiwan.
India lifts kabaddi world cup
The Indian women’s kabaddi team clinched their second consecutive World Cup title on Monday, defeating Chinese Taipei 35-28 in a tournament featuring 11 countries. India remained unbeaten throughout the competition, overcoming Iran 33-21 in the semifinals, while Chinese Taipei reached the final by beating hosts Bangladesh 25-18. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the team’s achievement, praising their grit, skill, and dedication. Former players, including Ajay Thakur and Manpreet Singh, highlighted the team’s dominant performance and the growing global appeal of women’s kabaddi.
