Current Affairs - International

India and Saudi Arabia entered into a bilateral visa waiver agreement aimed at facilitating smoother official travel between the two nations. The pact provides mutual short-term visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic, special, and official passports, reducing administrative barriers for government officials. Signed in Riyadh under the Strategic Partnership Council framework, the agreement reflects deepening diplomatic ties and growing cooperation across sectors such as trade, energy, defense, and people-to-people exchanges. By simplifying travel procedures, the initiative is expected to enhance institutional dialogue, accelerate joint initiatives, and further strengthen the long-standing strategic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia.

India and Argentina entered into a Work Plan for 2025–27 aimed at enhancing collaboration in agricultural research and technology exchange. The agreement was signed in New Delhi and involves cooperation between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Argentina’s National Institute of Agricultural Technology. Key focus areas include sustainable agronomy, efficient natural resource management, zero tillage practices, agricultural mechanisation, micro-irrigation, fertigation techniques, and germplasm exchange. This partnership is designed to promote innovation, improve farm productivity, and support sustainable agricultural development in both countries through shared expertise and advanced research practices.

Jose Antonio Kast emerged victorious in Chile’s presidential election, marking a significant political shift in the country. A right-wing and ultra-conservative leader, he secured a decisive win with 58.16% of the vote, defeating leftist candidate Jeannette Jara. His election reflects growing public concerns over rising crime, illegal migration, and internal security. Kast’s agenda focuses on strengthening border control, reducing organised violence, and stabilising the economy through fiscal discipline. His victory signals a broader rightward shift in Chile’s political landscape and may influence both domestic governance and the country’s future foreign and economic policies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, the highest civilian award of Ethiopia, during his official visit to Addis Ababa. With this recognition, he became the first global Head of State or Government to receive the prestigious honour, highlighting India’s expanding diplomatic influence, particularly in Africa and the Global South. The award, presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, marked PM Modi’s 28th international state honour. It reflects the deep historical, cultural, and educational ties between India and Ethiopia and underscores the strengthening strategic partnership between the two nations.

Italy achieved a historic cultural distinction by becoming the first country to receive UNESCO recognition for its entire national cuisine. The recognition was granted in December 2025 when Italian cuisine was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the organisation’s cultural assembly held in Delhi. Unlike earlier recognitions that focused on individual dishes or culinary practices, this acknowledgment covers Italy’s complete food culture, including everyday cooking traditions, regional diversity, and shared social practices. The move highlights food as a living cultural expression that strengthens community bonds, preserves intergenerational knowledge, and reflects national identity on a global stage.