Current Affairs - International

India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has been launched in Qatar, beginning with Hamad International Airport’s duty-free stores. This makes Qatar the eighth country to accept UPI, facilitating real-time, cashless payments for Indian tourists and reducing dependency on foreign currency or international cards. The rollout is part of a collaboration between NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), Qatar National Bank (QNB), and Japanese payments gateway NETSTARS. By enabling seamless transactions, UPI supports both Indian travelers and local Qatari businesses, promoting digital payment adoption and strengthening India’s international financial footprint while enhancing convenience and security for tourists in high-traffic commercial zones.

India and Australia signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for organic products as part of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). This arrangement enables both countries to mutually accept each other’s organic certification standards, reducing trade barriers and making it easier for certified producers to access markets. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) from India and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) from Australia are the implementing agencies. This collaboration strengthens trade relations, supports sustainable farming practices, and promotes greater consumer confidence in organic products across both nations.

The UAE-India Business Council (UIBC) signed three important Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on 24 September 2025 to enhance bilateral trade and cooperation between India and the UAE. These agreements were made with the UAE-India CEPA Council (UICC), Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), and multiple regional chambers of commerce. The focus is on implementing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) more effectively by supporting priority sectors such as IT, healthcare, logistics, tourism, education, and engineering. The MoUs aim to foster institutional collaboration, facilitate grassroots CEPA execution, and enable MSMEs and startups to benefit from UAE’s global trade networks.

China is introducing the K Visa starting October 1, 2025, to attract young STEM professionals and researchers worldwide. This visa offers flexible work rights, multiple entries, longer validity, and does not require a local employer or sponsor, distinguishing it from traditional Chinese work visas. The initiative is positioned as an alternative to the U.S., where recent H-1B visa restrictions and high fees have created challenges for global talent. By facilitating education, research, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange, the K Visa aims to strengthen China’s innovation ecosystem and make the country an attractive destination for skilled professionals seeking international opportunities.

The 25th Interpol Asian Regional Conference, where India was elected as a member of the Interpol Asian Committee, took place in Singapore. This committee plays a crucial role in advising the Asian Regional Conference on pressing issues such as organised crime, cybercrime, terrorism, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. India’s delegation, led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), secured its place through the election, reflecting its increasing influence in global law enforcement collaboration. The choice of Singapore as the host city further highlights its role as a strategic hub for international cooperation and security dialogue in the Asian region.