Current Affairs - International

Taiwan launched the five-day Immediate Combat Readiness Exercise on June 22, 2026, with the objective of improving its ability to transition quickly from peacetime to wartime operations. The exercise emphasises realistic combat conditions by using actual troops, terrain, and equipment rather than scripted scenarios. It is designed to strengthen command-and-control coordination, logistical support systems, and overall military preparedness. The drills also follow the deployment of US-made HIMARS rocket systems and serve as a precursor to the Han Kuang exercises, Taiwan’s largest annual military manoeuvres. These efforts aim to enhance defense readiness and response capabilities against potential security challenges.

APEDA facilitated the first-ever commercial export of 22.6 metric tonnes of dried whole egg powder from Balangir, Odisha, to Austria on June 20, 2026. The export was carried out by OVO Farm Pvt. Ltd. and marked a significant achievement for Odisha’s agri-processing sector. Dried whole egg powder is produced through the spray-drying of liquid eggs and is widely used in food processing, bakery, confectionery, and pharmaceutical industries. Its long shelf life and ease of transportation make it suitable for international trade. This export highlights India's growing presence in value-added agricultural product exports.

Canada signed a Government-to-Government acquisition arrangement with Australia and BAE Systems Australia to procure Over-the-Horizon Radar (OTHR) technology for its Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) program. Canada committed $2.5 billion for the project, which aims to achieve Initial Operational Capability by December 2029. OTHR technology can detect objects beyond the Earth's curvature by using radar signals refracted through the ionosphere. The initiative supports NORAD modernisation, enhances Arctic surveillance capabilities, and strengthens Canada's ability to monitor airborne and maritime threats. It also promotes knowledge transfer and domestic expertise through industrial and technological agreements.

The United Arab Emirates became the first Arab nation to establish an official minimum age of 15 years for social media usage. Under the new regulation, children below this age are prohibited from creating, operating, or participating in personal social media accounts. The policy also requires social media platforms to implement advanced age-verification mechanisms, including AI-powered technologies and digital identity checks, while rejecting self-declared ages as valid proof. For users aged 15 and 16, enhanced safeguards such as parental supervision tools, screen-time management features, and age-appropriate content filters are mandatory. The initiative aims to improve online safety, protect minors from digital risks, and encourage responsible social media engagement.

Uzbekistan became the 10th member of the New Development Bank (NDB) and the first country from Central Asia to join the institution. The membership was finalised after the country completed all required ratification procedures. Founded by the BRICS nations in 2015, the NDB supports infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging economies. Uzbekistan's inclusion is expected to enhance investment opportunities in sectors such as energy, water management, transportation, and social infrastructure. The bank plans to support projects using national currencies and domestic procurement systems. This development strengthens Uzbekistan’s integration into global financial institutions and highlights the growing international role of the New Development Bank.