Japan–Pakistan Education Aid: Japan and Pakistan signed a JPY 350 million ($2.2m) grant under JDS 2026, funding Masters and PhD scholarships for young Pakistani civil servants via JICA. Japan Defense Remilitarization: Japan’s 2026 defense white paper and a proposed record-high 2027 budget (about 8.9 trillion yen, possibly near 10 trillion) point to more offensive capabilities and faster weapons exports, drawing public and regional concern. Japan Space Milestone: JAXA successfully launched an H3 rocket carrying the Michibiki No.7 positioning satellite, resuming momentum after a prior H3 failure. Philippines–China Tensions: Manila is investigating anti-China caskets found across Metro Manila, with police saying they have leads and will share results after verification. Bangladesh–ASEAN Push: Bangladesh’s fisheries/livestock minister highlighted deeper Bangladesh–ASEAN cooperation on trade, connectivity and people-to-people links, including Bangladesh’s move to seek Sectoral Dialogue Partner status. Bangladesh–India Extradition Pressure: Bangladesh again urged India to expedite Sheikh Hasina’s extradition after a meeting with India’s envoy, escalating diplomatic friction. India–Israel Arms Link: Amnesty says India supplied thousands of shipments of small arms, ammunition and components to Israel for aggressive use during the Gaza war period, raising accountability questions. India Energy & Mobility: India’s government said ethanol-blended diesel failed safety flash-point tests, while separate reporting highlights LPG import diversification and rapid EV growth. China Storm Disruption: Tropical Storm Dolphin triggered major flight and transport cancellations in eastern China, with flooding and evacuations reported. ASEAN–Bangladesh Diplomacy: ASEAN missions in Dhaka pledged to deepen ties with Bangladesh as ASEAN Day celebrations continue.