Current Affairs - International

Taiwan is the location of Google’s largest AI hardware engineering centre outside the United States, marking a major expansion of the company’s global technological footprint. Situated in Taipei, the centre plays a crucial role in advancing AI-focused hardware development, especially through the integration of Google’s TPU processors into high-performance server systems. The initiative also reflects the deepening strategic technology partnership between the US and Taiwan. Since 2020, the engineering team in Taiwan has tripled, demonstrating Google’s long-term commitment to strengthening cloud computing, AI workloads, and data-driven infrastructure capabilities in the region.

Johannesburg is the host city for the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit, which PM Narendra Modi will attend from 21–23 November. The summit marks the fourth consecutive G20 meeting held in the Global South, highlighting the increasing significance of developing regions in shaping global economic and political discussions. India will use this platform to share its priorities and perspectives on key global challenges. During the visit, PM Modi will also take part in the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ Meeting, strengthening trilateral cooperation. The choice of Johannesburg underscores South Africa’s role as a central voice in international diplomacy.

The United Kingdom has been chosen as the Country Partner for the Hornbill Festival 2025, marking a significant step toward strengthening cultural ties and enhancing global engagement with Nagaland’s rich heritage. This partnership was formalised through a signing ceremony involving the Nagaland Chief Minister and senior British officials, demonstrating a shared commitment to cultural diplomacy. As part of the collaboration, the British Council and the British Deputy High Commission will curate cultural programs and bring UK artists to the festival. This association is expected to boost tourism, promote indigenous traditions, and create new avenues for cultural exchange between India and the UK.

Saudi Arabia received the Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status from the United States, marking a major elevation in their strategic relationship. This designation provides access to advanced American defence technologies, preferential military cooperation, joint training programs, and participation in research and development initiatives. The announcement coincided with a landmark defence and technology partnership that includes the sale of F-35 fighter jets, advanced tanks, and expanded security collaboration in the Gulf region. Additionally, agreements on civil nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals further deepen the bilateral ties, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and reshaping regional strategic dynamics.

India has entered into a landmark agreement to source a significant portion of its LPG imports—about 10%—from the United States starting in 2026. This structured deal marks a strategic shift in India’s energy procurement pattern, as it has traditionally relied heavily on West Asian suppliers such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. By diversifying its supply chain, India aims to strengthen its energy security, reduce dependence on a single region, and explore competitive pricing options based on the Mont Belvieu benchmark used in the US. The move also supports broader diplomatic and trade objectives between the two countries.