United States

– The US economy has shown “greater-than-expected resilience”, leading to an upward revision in its GDP growth forecast for 2023.

– However, the IMF has also noted a “downward 1.2 percentage-points revision” for the US growth outlook, partly due to the earlier withdrawal of monetary accommodation and continued supply shortages.

United Kingdom

– The UK economy has seen a “substantial (almost 1 percentage point) downgrade” in its 2023 GDP growth forecast compared to the previous outlook.

– This reflects the economic challenges the UK has faced, including the impact of Brexit, high inflation, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Canada

– Canada has launched its Indo-Pacific Strategy, which aims to promote peace, resilience and security, expand trade and investment, invest in and connect people, and build a sustainable and green future in the region.

– Canada sees India as a “critical partner” in the Indo-Pacific, and plans to grow economic ties, expand market access, and support academic, educational, cultural, and research exchanges with India.

France

– Favorable views of India have declined in France over time, with just 39% now having a favorable view of India compared to 70% in 2008.

– French adults are also less likely than they were in 2008 to share an opinion on India, suggesting a growing indifference or uncertainty about the country.

India

– India’s economic growth is projected to decline from 6.8% in 2022 to 6.1% in 2023 before picking up to 6.8% in 2024, which the IMF describes as “resilient” despite the global economic slowdown.

– However, India’s strategic importance and leadership in the Indo-Pacific region is expected to increase as it becomes the world’s most populous country by 2030.

– Domestically, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi enjoys high popularity, with 79% of Indians having a favorable view of him, including 55% with a very favorable view.

– Internationally, Modi has more mixed reviews, with a median of 37% across 12 countries expressing confidence in him to make the right foreign policy choices.