South China Sea Defense: Philippines and Vietnam are deepening defense ties, with Manila saying cooperation is possible with partners who share trust, while it says Beijing lacks good faith; the move includes renewing a defense cooperation MOU in Manila. Taiwan Strait Nuclear Risk: A new study warns a US-China conflict over Taiwan could escalate fast and risk nuclear confrontation, citing expanded long-range strike capabilities and weak crisis “guardrails.” Cybersecurity Attribution: The US, EU, NATO, UK, Australia and Japan blamed China-linked hackers for attacks on Microsoft Exchange servers, warning of spillover risks to governments and businesses. India Digital Exams Security: India’s CBSE admitted loopholes in its On-Screen Marking system after an ethical hacker exposed vulnerabilities, triggering a cybersecurity exercise and tighter monitoring. India-US Trade Talks: India and the US are set to sign the first bilateral trade agreement soon, with talks on Section 301 tariff relief and legal text continuing. India Energy & Industry: Jet fuel prices for Indian domestic flights will stay unchanged in June as oil firms hold ATF rates; India also plans flex-fuel rollout via new Maruti Suzuki vehicle showcase and broader E100 infrastructure. China Foreign Investment Controls: China unveiled new rules tightening foreign investment, technology and data transfers, effective July 1, with government approval required for certain outbound deals. Pakistan-China Business Follow-Through: Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz ordered MoUs from a China B2B conference to be converted quickly into formal agreements and joint ventures. Japan Drug Policy: Japan banned cannabinol (CBN) after reports of illnesses and risky behavior, allowing it only for limited epilepsy treatment. India Youth Protest: The “Cockroach Janta Party” founder says he will return to India to lead a protest demanding the education minister’s resignation over exam-related controversies.