Current Affairs - International

India approved a ₹30 billion currency swap facility to the Maldives under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework for 2024–2027. This financial support, provided through the INR Swap Window, aims to help the Maldives manage its balance-of-payment pressures and maintain economic stability. The arrangement is implemented between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority. It also reflects India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, emphasising regional cooperation. Over the years, India has extended significant financial assistance to the Maldives, including previous swap facilities, reinforcing strong bilateral economic and strategic ties.

Brazil emerged as the leading exporter of corn to Bangladesh in April 2026, surpassing India due to shifting global trade dynamics and rising domestic ethanol demand in India. Brazil secured a dominant 78% share of Bangladesh’s corn imports for the 2025–26 marketing year. Meanwhile, India’s exports declined significantly over recent years due to increased domestic consumption and higher grain prices. The surge in Bangladesh’s imports, driven by growing demand from poultry, dairy, and aquaculture sectors, further strengthened Brazil’s position. This transition also facilitated the re-entry of US corn into Bangladesh’s market after several years.

Turkey introduced a significant legal reform in April 2026 by banning social media access for children below 15 years of age. The legislation amends existing social services laws to impose strict age-based restrictions on digital platform usage. It requires companies to implement robust age verification systems and appoint local representatives for compliance. The regulation also extends to gaming platforms, mandating age classification for video games. This move reflects growing global concerns about online safety for minors, digital well-being, and responsible platform governance in an increasingly connected technological environment.

Pakistan successfully carried out a flight test of the Taimoor, an indigenously developed air-launched anti-ship cruise missile, on April 21, 2026. The test was conducted by the Pakistan Navy, showcasing its operational capabilities in maritime defence. The missile is designed to detect, track, and neutralise sea-based threats with precision at extended ranges. It strengthens the country’s conventional strike capability and reflects advancements in domestic defence technology. This successful test highlights Pakistan’s focus on enhancing naval preparedness and maintaining a coordinated, multi-dimensional defence strategy in regional waters.

China identified a new lunar mineral named Cerium-Magnesium Changesite on April 23, 2026, marking the 11th known mineral discovered from the Moon. This mineral was found within a lunar meteorite that had fallen within China’s borders, making it a significant scientific achievement. The mineral exhibits unique fluorescent properties and contains specific ratios of rare earth elements, magnesium, and iron. Its discovery holds potential for applications in advanced technologies such as next-generation LED materials and energy-efficient electronics. This breakthrough also highlights China’s growing capabilities in space exploration and extraterrestrial geological research.