Current Affairs - International

The ACITI Partnership brings together India, Australia, and Canada to enhance collaboration in critical and emerging technologies, green innovation, and resilient supply chains. This trilateral initiative aims to leverage the combined technological strengths and strategic priorities of the three nations. By focusing on green energy solutions, responsible AI development, and diversification of critical mineral supply chains, the partnership supports broader goals of sustainability and net-zero emissions. It also promotes joint research, innovation-driven cooperation, and coordinated policy frameworks. The initiative represents a long-term vision for technological progress, economic resilience, and shared global leadership in addressing future challenges.

Indonesia achieved a major public health milestone when WHO declared the end of its type-2 polio outbreak. This success followed extensive immunisation efforts, including the administration of more than 60 million vaccine doses, multiple nOPV2 campaigns, and strengthened routine immunisation. The rollout of the hexavalent vaccine and the improvement of IPV coverage from 63% to 73% in 2024 played an important role. Although the government continues to highlight risks in areas with low vaccination coverage, the achievement reinforces the Western Pacific region’s broader polio-free status and demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to disease prevention and strong public health systems.

China has embarked on constructing a groundbreaking artificial floating island engineered to endure nuclear explosions, extreme waves, and powerful typhoons. This advanced platform, known as the Deep-Sea All-Weather Resident Floating Research Facility, is designed with military-grade resilience and cutting-edge materials such as metamaterial sandwich panels that absorb intense shockwaves. Measuring 138 metres in length and capable of supporting 238 personnel for months without resupply, the facility represents a major step forward in maritime engineering. Its long-term operational goal includes enhancing scientific research, bolstering deep-sea exploration, and expanding strategic capabilities in international waters by 2028.

India signed the Terms of Reference with Israel to begin negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement aimed at strengthening economic cooperation, boosting trade in goods and services, and enhancing investment flows. The agreement sets a structured framework for discussions on market access, technology collaboration, regulatory alignment, and innovation partnerships. Both nations seek to leverage complementary strengths—India’s large consumer base and manufacturing capabilities, and Israel’s advanced expertise in fields like agritech, cybersecurity, and water technology. The initiative is expected to foster deeper commercial ties, encourage cross-border innovation, and contribute to more resilient supply chains within an evolving global economic landscape.

The UAE emerged as the third-largest humanitarian donor in 2025, contributing an impressive $1.46 billion, which accounts for 7.2% of all aid recorded by the UN’s Financial Tracking Service. This milestone highlights the UAE’s expanding global role in both emergency response and long-term development initiatives. Its contributions support critical areas such as food, water, medical assistance, post-conflict recovery, education, and clean energy projects. Led by visionary leadership prioritizing humanitarian responsibility, the UAE’s commitment reflects a blend of rapid crisis intervention and sustainable development, reinforcing its standing as a reliable and impactful global humanitarian partner.