Current Affairs - International

The Maldives received its first high-speed ferry from India as part of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III agreement. The ferry will operate under the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) network, improving connectivity between Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls. This initiative enhances inter-island transport, supports tourism and fisheries, and strengthens local livelihoods. Backed by Indian grant assistance, the project reflects India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its strategic commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, reinforcing bilateral ties through infrastructure and community-focused development support.

The United Kingdom partnered with India to establish the Offshore Wind Taskforce under Vision 2035 during the Fourth India-UK Energy Dialogue. The initiative aims to accelerate offshore wind development in India by combining UK expertise in scaling offshore wind farms and supply chains with India’s expanding renewable energy market. The task force focuses on ecosystem planning, infrastructure development, financing models, and risk mitigation strategies. It also supports offshore wind projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu with Viability Gap Funding assistance, while aligning with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission to enhance clean energy capacity and long-term energy security.

India held high-level discussions with Ireland to strengthen cooperation in telecom and emerging technologies. The talks involved Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Ireland’s Jack Chambers, focusing on innovation-driven partnerships. Key areas included India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, such as UPI and DBT, rapid 5G expansion, and rural broadband development. Both nations also explored collaborative opportunities in advanced sectors like Quantum Communications, Artificial Intelligence, and regulatory innovation, highlighting their shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations through technology and digital transformation initiatives.

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh following a decisive victory in the 13th Parliamentary Elections, where his party secured 209 out of 297 seats. The oath of office was administered by Mohammed Shahabuddin at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad in Dhaka. His appointment marks a significant political shift, ending the interim leadership of Muhammad Yunus and beginning a new chapter focused on economic recovery, institutional stability, and national reconciliation.

The Global South AI Impact Summit 2026 is being hosted by India at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This historic five-day summit marks the first global AI gathering held in the Global South, bringing together leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and international organisations from over 20 countries. The event focuses on shaping global Artificial Intelligence governance through three guiding pillars—People, Planet, and Progress—and seven thematic “Chakras.” By organising this large-scale international summit, India reinforces its position as a bridge between developed and developing nations and strengthens its leadership role in global digital governance and responsible AI development.