Current Affairs - International

Israel has taken a landmark step in international diplomacy by becoming the first country to formally recognise Somaliland. This move includes plans to establish full diplomatic relations through the exchange of ambassadors and the opening of embassies. Alongside recognition, Israel has announced expanded cooperation with Somaliland in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and technology. Somaliland, strategically located along the Gulf of Aden, declared independence in 1991 but has remained largely unrecognised by the global community. This recognition is considered a historic moment and may influence future international engagement with Somaliland.

Armenia introduced the official logo for the COP17 Conference on Biological Diversity, highlighting its role as the host nation for the global event. The logo features the endemic Erivan Anomalous Blue butterfly, a species native to the region, symbolizing the fragility of ecosystems and the interconnectedness of biodiversity. Designed with 23 blended colours, the logo represents the 23 global biodiversity targets outlined under international commitments. COP17 is scheduled to be held in Yerevan in October 2026 and will focus on reviewing the implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, emphasizing collective global action.

India is set to take over the Chairpersonship of the Kimberley Process beginning January 1, 2026, marking a significant step in its global economic and diplomatic engagement. This will be the third time India has been entrusted with leading this international mechanism aimed at preventing the trade of conflict diamonds. Prior to assuming the chair, India will serve as Vice Chair from December 25, 2025, ensuring continuity in leadership. The Kimberley Process plays a crucial role in regulating the global rough diamond trade, covering over 99% of it, and India’s leadership will focus on transparency, digital certification, traceability, and stronger governance mechanisms.

Russia has outlined ambitious plans to establish a power plant on the Moon by 2036 as part of its long-term lunar exploration strategy. Led by Roscosmos, the project is intended to supply continuous energy to lunar rovers, scientific observatories, and infrastructure linked to the Russian-Chinese International Lunar Research Station. With involvement from nuclear technology institutions such as Rosatom and the Kurchatov Institute, the power source is expected to be nuclear, ensuring reliability during long lunar nights. This initiative reflects Russia’s efforts to revive its space programme and strengthen international cooperation in lunar exploration.

Italy emerged as the leading country in the Global Food City Rankings 2025–26, securing six positions among the world’s top ten food cities. Cities such as Naples, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Genoa, and Rome showcased the depth and diversity of Italian cuisine. The dominance reflects Italy’s strong regional food identities, reliance on simple recipes using high-quality ingredients, and globally loved dishes like pizza, pasta, and traditional desserts. Italian food culture is deeply rooted in history and tradition, passed down through generations, making cuisine a central part of everyday life and a major attraction for global culinary tourism.