Current Affairs - International

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960, a landmark water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan, was brokered by the World Bank. It allocated exclusive rights to India over the eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej) and granted Pakistan control over the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab) while allowing India limited non-consumptive use of the western rivers. The treaty remains one of the most enduring water-sharing agreements in the world. Despite tensions between the two countries, the treaty has largely held firm due to its robust legal structure and international backing, with the World Bank playing a crucial role in its formation and continuing oversight.

India and Denmark have signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding to deepen their energy cooperation, with a strong focus on clean and sustainable energy solutions. This agreement supports India’s broader climate goals, including its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. The MoU emphasizes mutual knowledge exchange and technological collaboration to drive innovation in the renewable energy sector. Denmark, known for its expertise in wind energy and green technologies, is a key partner in India's green transition, making this renewed partnership a strategic move toward shared sustainability objectives and climate action.

In 2025, Vietnam marked 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, which concluded with the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. This historic event, known in Vietnam as the “Day of Southern Liberation for National Reunification,” symbolized the unification of North and South Vietnam. The 50th anniversary celebrations were held with significant fanfare, including military parades, an air show, and participation from international allies and observers. The commemoration honoured the sacrifices made during the 20-year-long conflict and reflected Vietnam's growing stature in global diplomacy and defence.

The BRS COPs 2025 conference, where India played a pivotal role in pushing for global action on chemicals and waste, was held in Geneva. Led by India's Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, the Indian delegation emphasized the need for collaborative solutions to plastic pollution, technology transfer, and financial support for developing nations. The conference’s theme, "Make visible the invisible," highlighted the global concern over chemical mismanagement. India reaffirmed its leadership in environmental governance by promoting its regulatory framework and advocating for stronger international agreements to address chemical and waste challenges.

Nepal is introducing a new draft law to limit Mount Everest access only to climbers who have prior experience scaling peaks above 7,000 meters. This move is part of the country’s broader effort to address the growing issues of overcrowding, rising fatalities, and environmental degradation on the world’s highest mountain. By ensuring that only experienced mountaineers attempt Everest, Nepal aims to improve safety standards and promote more sustainable expedition practices. The new regulation is also seen as a step toward preserving the ecological integrity of the Everest region, which has increasingly suffered from waste accumulation and unregulated tourism.