Current Affairs - International

The United States has signed an economic partnership agreement with Ukraine, granting it access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals—critical for advanced technologies, including defence and clean energy sectors. In return, the agreement includes the formation of a joint Reconstruction Investment Fund aimed at aiding Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts amid ongoing challenges. This strategic move not only strengthens economic ties between the two nations but also aligns their interests in geopolitical stability and resource security. Ukraine’s rich mineral reserves play a crucial role in global supply chains, making this deal significant for both economic and strategic reasons.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, aged 73, has made a significant political comeback by winning the election in Trinidad and Tobago, marking her return as Prime Minister. She previously served in the same role from 2010 to 2015 and remains the only woman to have ever led the country. Her campaign emphasized key social welfare issues, including pension security and job creation, which resonated with voters. The ruling People's National Movement (PNM) party, led by former Prime Minister Keith Rowley, conceded defeat following the election results. Her return highlights a renewed mandate and hope for transformative leadership in the Caribbean nation.

The United States has strategically deployed anti-ship missile launchers on Batan Island, located in the Philippines, as part of a broader military posture near Taiwan. This move aligns with ongoing tensions in the region, especially following China’s extensive military drills signalling opposition to any push for Taiwan's independence. The deployment is occurring alongside the Balikatan military exercises, which involve around 9,000 US troops and forces from the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and others. These exercises are taking place near the highly contested South China Sea, reinforcing regional defence cooperation and strategic deterrence in response to rising geopolitical tensions.

The 11th BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers’ Meeting was presided over by Brazil, highlighting the country’s role in shaping the global discourse on pressing labour issues. During this meeting, member nations adopted a declaration that addressed the dual challenges of artificial intelligence's growing role in the workplace and the impact of climate change on employment trends. Brazil’s leadership in this context underscores its commitment to facilitating multilateral cooperation among BRICS countries to prepare labour forces for future disruptions and transformations in the global job market.

Bhutan hosted the 6th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) Meeting with India in Thimphu from April 24 to 25, 2025. The bilateral meeting focused on reinforcing customs cooperation, streamlining trade processes, enhancing digitisation, and improving border infrastructure. Bhutan, a landlocked nation, relies heavily on India for trade, with approximately 80% of its overall commerce conducted with its southern neighbour. With ten operational land Customs Stations along the West Bengal and Assam borders, efficient customs procedures are crucial for Bhutan’s economy. The meeting highlighted the mutual commitment to secure, modern, and technology-driven trade facilitation between the two countries.