Current Affairs - International

India formally assumed the Chair of the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA) for 2026 during the 48th Meeting of National Representatives held in Navi Mumbai from May 19–22, 2026. Hosted by the Department of Atomic Energy, the meeting brought together delegates from Asia-Pacific nations, representatives from AFRA, and officials from the IAEA and RCARO. Discussions focused on the peaceful applications of nuclear science in healthcare, agriculture, food technology, water management, and environmental sustainability. India’s leadership under the theme “India By Your Side” reflects its commitment to regional cooperation and the promotion of nuclear technologies for socio-economic development.

India is hosting the 68th Session of the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO) Governing Body in New Delhi with participation from more than 60 senior delegates representing 20 APO member economies. The event focuses on discussions related to the APO Vision 2030 framework, budget planning for 2027–28, and leadership elections for the organisation. India assumed the APO Chairmanship during the 67th session in 2025 through DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia. Established in 1961, the APO is a regional intergovernmental organisation dedicated to improving productivity and promoting sustainable economic development across Asia-Pacific member economies.

India and Norway strengthened their strategic partnership in science and innovation through five major bilateral agreements signed in Oslo on May 18, 2026. The agreements involved India’s CSIR and DSIR collaborating with leading Norwegian institutions in areas such as clean energy, offshore wind technology, geosciences, sustainability, and public health research. The partnerships also focused on student mobility, scientific exchanges, and advanced infrastructure solutions. Key organisations involved included SINTEF, NTNU, and FME NorthWind. These agreements reflect growing cooperation between India and Norway in green technology, climate research, renewable energy, and sustainable industrial development.

The United States approved defence sustainment packages worth $428.2 million for India on May 18, 2026. The agreements included support for India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The packages cover engineering assistance, logistics, technical training, spare parts, and repair services to maintain operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces. Major defence companies such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and BAE Systems are involved in the support framework. The move highlights the growing strategic defence partnership between India and the United States, especially in advanced military technology and operational cooperation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Royal Order of the Polar Star during his visit to Sweden on May 18, 2026. The honour is regarded as the highest distinction that Sweden can confer upon a Head of Government. Instituted in 1748, the award recognises exceptional contributions and efforts that benefit Sweden and its interests. This recognition became the 31st international honour received by PM Modi, reflecting India’s growing diplomatic engagement and global partnerships. During the two-day visit, PM Modi was welcomed by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, highlighting the strengthening bilateral relationship between India and Sweden across multiple sectors.