Current Affairs - International

The 23rd Asia Regional Meeting of National Authorities of States Parties was hosted in New Delhi by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in collaboration with India’s National Authority of the Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC). This gathering brought together representatives from Asian member states to enhance cooperation and compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which came into effect in 1997. OPCW, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, plays a critical role in global chemical weapons disarmament. Hosting the event in New Delhi highlights India's commitment to international peace and non-proliferation efforts.

In July 2025, Pakistan assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), a position that rotates monthly among the 15 member states. As president, Pakistan committed to leading with transparency, inclusivity, and a focus on peace and multilateral cooperation. The country, currently serving a two-year term as a non-permanent member of the Council, announced plans to host high-level meetings addressing global peace, the Palestine issue, and collaboration with organisations like the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan’s leadership in the UNSC during this month underscores its diplomatic engagement and commitment to upholding the principles of the UN Charter.

On July 3, 2025, Russia officially recognised the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, becoming the first country to do so since the group's return to power in 2021. The Russian Foreign Ministry removed the Taliban from its list of banned organisations and formally accepted the credentials of the Taliban-appointed Afghan ambassador. This move is significant not only because Russia is a major global power and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, but also because it may influence other countries’ foreign policies towards Afghanistan. The decision reflects a strategic choice to engage with the current power structure in Afghanistan based on realpolitik considerations.

Ghana has launched a climate-resilient wheat initiative in collaboration with India, specifically through Arima Farms and the CSIR-Crops Research Institute. This strategic move is part of Ghana’s broader goal to reduce its heavy reliance on wheat imports, which currently amount to over $400 million annually. By enhancing local agricultural productivity with resilient wheat varieties, Ghana aims to promote food security and self-sufficiency. The partnership is also a key example of South-South cooperation, highlighting how countries in the Global South are leveraging joint innovation and technology to tackle shared challenges in food and agriculture. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Ghana's national honour, 'Officer of the Order of the Star,' by President John Mahama during his visit to the country.

Sri Lanka, through General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) in Colombo, initiated a Hindi Language Learning Programme in partnership with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), which operates under the Indian High Commission. This course is part of an effort to enhance cultural and educational ties between India and Sri Lanka. Offered as an undergraduate elective, it is accessible to both military and civilian students. The initiative reflects the deepening of cultural diplomacy between the two nations and recognizes the significance of Hindi as a bridge for mutual understanding, regional integration, and people-to-people connections in South Asia.