Current Affairs - International

India has officially launched the logo and dedicated website for its BRICS Presidency 2026, marking the beginning of preparations for assuming the chairship. The announcement was made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who highlighted the presidency’s focus on resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability. The initiative reflects a people-centric and inclusive vision aimed at strengthening collaboration among emerging economies. With BRICS completing 20 years in 2026, India’s leadership seeks to promote shared development, enhance digital engagement through a central platform, and position the grouping as a key forum for addressing global challenges faced by the Global South.

India and Germany reinforced their long-standing strategic partnership through the India–Germany Joint Statement 2026 issued during the official visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The visit focused on expanding cooperation across defence, trade, technology, climate action, and global security. Germany committed to deeper defence collaboration, participation in major military exercises, and enhanced defence manufacturing partnerships. Economic ties were further strengthened with growing bilateral trade and investment, while cooperation in green development, digital technologies, and critical emerging sectors such as semiconductors and space research was emphasised. The partnership reflects shared democratic values and a joint commitment to a rules-based global order.

India will host the 28th CSPOC in New Delhi from 15–16 January 2026, bringing together Speakers and Presiding Officers from over 60 Commonwealth nations. The conference aims to promote knowledge-sharing, strengthen parliamentary institutions, and enhance understanding of diverse democratic practices. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the event at the historic Samvidhan Sadan, reflecting India’s constitutional legacy. Chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, the sessions will focus on contemporary issues such as the use of AI in Parliament, social media impact, and legislative efficiency. Hosting CSPOC reinforces India’s position as the world’s largest democracy and a leader in parliamentary values.

The Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia is one of the highest civilian honours awarded by Italy to recognize exceptional contributions in promoting friendly relations and cooperation with the country. Shrinivas Dempo received this prestigious award for his long-standing efforts in strengthening ties between India and Italy through business, cultural exchange, and community support. The honour reflects Italy’s emphasis on people-to-people diplomacy and the role of non-governmental actors in international relations. By recognizing an Indian industrialist, Italy highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement in enhancing bilateral cooperation beyond formal diplomatic channels.

The G7 Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting was held in Washington DC, which is the capital of the United States. The meeting brought together ministers from G7 nations to discuss strategies for securing and strengthening global supply chains of critical and strategic minerals, which are essential for clean energy, technology, and industrial growth. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw represented India at this important forum and highlighted the significance of resilient critical minerals supply chains in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. The United States, as a major G7 member, hosted the meeting to facilitate global coordination on this issue.