Current Affairs - International

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.

India secured its re-election to the Codex Executive Committee for the Asia region, reinforcing its influential role in shaping global food standards and trade-related food safety policies. This unanimous decision reflects the confidence of the international community in India’s leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to balanced, science-based regulatory frameworks. Through active participation in multiple Codex committees, India has consistently advocated for standards that incorporate regional realities while aligning with global best practices. Its contributions span food additives, pesticide residue monitoring, analytical methods, and commodity standards, including progress on cashew kernel regulations. This renewed mandate empowers India to continue shaping equitable and effective global food governance.

India has entered into a one-year agreement to import a substantial quantity of LPG from the United States, amounting to 2.2 million tonnes annually. The deal was finalized after officials from major Indian oil companies—IOC, BPCL, and HPCL—held detailed discussions with leading American producers along the US Gulf Coast. This arrangement strengthens India’s energy security by diversifying supply sources and reducing dependence on traditional exporters. It also reflects growing strategic and commercial ties between India and the U.S. in the energy sector, ensuring a stable supply of LPG for domestic consumption and supporting the country’s broader energy needs.

The storm responsible for the widespread damage, severe flooding, and loss of life across parts of Portugal and Wales was named Claudia. It brought intense rain, strong winds, and hazardous conditions that led authorities to issue amber alerts in several Portuguese districts, including Algarve, Beja, and Setubal. In Wales, the storm’s impact was equally serious, with rivers overflowing and causing significant flooding, especially in Monmouth. Events like these highlight the increasing vulnerability of regions to extreme weather, emphasizing the need for preparedness, timely warnings, and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters.

India engaged with Canada in the 7th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment to advance cooperation across various strategic sectors. The meeting focused on deepening collaboration in critical minerals, clean energy, aerospace, and dual-use technologies—areas that are increasingly important for both economic growth and security. The dialogue also emphasised the need for resilient and diversified supply chains, particularly in agriculture, to support long-term economic stability. Through such dialogues, both nations aim to build a stronger partnership that promotes trade expansion, technology sharing, and sustainable development, reflecting their shared commitment to mutually beneficial economic ties.