Current Affairs - International

China launched the Shenzhou-21 mission to its Tiangong Space Station, marking another milestone in its rapidly advancing space programme. The mission carried three astronauts — including 32-year-old Wu Fei, the nation’s youngest astronaut — and four lab mice for biological experiments in microgravity. Conducted from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre using a Long March-2F rocket, the mission aims to expand research on space-based biology, maintenance operations, and spacewalks. This achievement aligns with China’s long-term goal of landing humans on the Moon by 2030 and reinforces its position as a key global player in space exploration and scientific innovation.

Catherine Connolly, an independent left-wing politician from Galway, was elected as Ireland’s 10th President with around 63% of the first-preference votes, defeating her main rival Heather Humphreys. Her victory marks a significant moment in Irish politics, being both a rebuke to the centre-right establishment and a sign of public support for progressive and inclusive values. Connolly, who has served as a Teachta Dála since 2016 and was Deputy Speaker of Parliament, campaigned on themes of social justice, neutrality in foreign policy, and equality, promising to be “a president for all” Irish citizens.

A total of seven countries — Cook Islands, Madagascar, Mexico, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Uganda — collectively received $5.8 million from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund. The funding supports projects that integrate biodiversity into agricultural practices, empower local communities, and control invasive species. Backed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the initiative aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. By encouraging eco-friendly farming and strengthening biodiversity protection, the program promotes sustainable agriculture that benefits both ecosystems and local livelihoods across multiple regions.

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.