Current Affairs - International

The annual partnership meeting between India and Norway focused on reviewing the 2025 Progress Report and approving Phase IV work plans for 2025–26 under the Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI). This collaboration aims to enhance public health outcomes through innovation and data-driven decision-making. One of its major achievements is the Indian Public Health Standards – Open Data Kit Tool, which enables states to identify healthcare gaps and receive focused support efficiently. The partnership showcases strong bilateral cooperation in improving maternal, newborn, and child health systems across India through technology and evidence-based planning.

The United States agreed to reduce tariffs on Chinese imports from 57% to 47% following diplomatic negotiations with China in Busan, South Korea. This deal temporarily eased tensions between the two major economies, marking a one-year truce on rare earth exports. The U.S. concessions were part of a broader agreement that included China’s resumption of soybean purchases and increased action against fentanyl trafficking, reflecting efforts by both sides to stabilise trade relations and promote economic cooperation despite ongoing strategic competition.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever air shipment of GI-tagged Indi and Puliyankudi Limes to the United Kingdom. This historic consignment consisted of 350 kg of Indi Lime from Vijayapura, Karnataka, and 150 kg of Puliyankudi Lime from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, totaling 500 kg. The successful export signifies a major milestone in expanding the global reach of India’s unique GI-tagged horticultural products, strengthening trade ties and promoting regional produce in international markets.

During his visit to South Korea on October 29, 2025, Donald Trump was awarded the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country’s highest national honour. He also received a replica of the golden Cheonmachong crown, symbolising unity and peaceful reigns. This recognition was granted for his diplomatic efforts in fostering peace on the Korean peninsula, particularly his historic engagements with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The event, held in Gyeongju, highlighted strengthened U.S.–South Korea relations and marked Trump as the first American president to receive this distinguished award.

India and Nepal have entered into major power agreements to strengthen their energy partnership. The deals were signed between India’s POWERGRID Corporation and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) in New Delhi, in the presence of both countries’ energy ministers. These agreements aim to construct two 400 kV cross-border transmission lines connecting Inaruwa (Nepal) to New Purnea (India) and Lamki/Dododhara (Nepal) to Bareilly (India). The initiative will enhance electricity trade, improve grid reliability, and promote regional energy integration. This collaboration highlights Nepal’s hydropower potential and India’s growing clean energy demand under its Neighborhood First policy.