Current Affairs - International

Japan is gifting India two Shinkansen train sets, specifically the E5 and E3 series, in 2026 as part of bilateral cooperation in high-speed rail technology. The E5 series, known for its speed of 320 km/h and cutting-edge features, was selected for India’s Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. The initiative is being executed by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. (NHSRCL) and is heavily funded (about 80%) by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The project embodies deep Indo-Japanese collaboration in infrastructure, with an emphasis on adopting best-in-class railway systems from Japan under the National Rail Plan 2030.

India is projected to become the world’s fastest-growing major aviation market by 2026, surpassing China's growth rate, with an expected air passenger traffic increase of 10.5% in 2026. This growth is driven by India's low per capita air travel, increasing middle-class aspirations, rapid infrastructure development, and supportive policies like UDAN and Gati Shakti. Despite China's leading market size, India’s high growth rate is fueled by the untapped potential in the aviation sector, indicating significant future growth. India’s long-term growth outlook remains robust, with a projected 5.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) until 2053.

India took a major step in global wildlife conservation by signing the Headquarters Agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). This agreement not only allows the IBCA to be headquartered in India but also includes significant financial backing of ₹150 crore for its infrastructure and operational costs. The alliance, established in 2023, aims to protect and conserve seven species of big cats such as tigers, lions, and leopards. Additionally, India’s commitment ensures support through visa facilitation, immunities, and other provisions necessary for the alliance to function effectively from its Indian base.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been elected to chair INTERPOL’s Committee on Governance, marking a significant step in its rising influence in global security and law enforcement. Lt. Col. Dana Humaid Al Marzouqi from the UAE Ministry of Interior was appointed as chair after securing 67% of the votes from INTERPOL's member states. This leadership role reflects the UAE's growing credibility and commitment to transparent and inclusive governance in international policing, further enhancing its diplomatic presence and strategic influence in global law enforcement policymaking.

Italy is actively enhancing its strategic relationship with India by focusing on sectors such as trade, defence, clean energy, and infrastructure. The partnership was further solidified during the visit of the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, where both nations emphasized cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the Joint Strategic Action Plan (JSAP) 2025–29. These initiatives aim to foster technological collaboration, boost bilateral investments, and support connectivity projects. The partnership also highlights shared geopolitical goals, including a secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, reflecting a broader vision for global stability and mutual growth in innovation and youth mobility.