Overview

• The ‘SaptaSur: Seven Nations, One Melody’ festival in New Delhi fulfills Prime Minister Modi’s April pledge to host a BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival
• Jaishankar argued that traditions define national identity and that music acts as both an expression of heritage and a bridge between member states
• President Trump announced 25% tariffs on Indian goods and additional levies for continued Russian oil purchases, effective August 7
• India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the US measures “unjustified and unreasonable” and described oil imports as a necessity driven by global market conditions
• Artists from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar and Bhutan are showcasing regional musical traditions throughout the festival