Current Affairs - International

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have jointly discovered a significant new crude oil source in the North Wafra Wara-Burgan field of the neutral zone, marking their first major energy discovery since 2020. This neutral zone is a shared area where both countries have equal rights to oil resources. Production was previously suspended but resumed in 2020. The new well produces over 500 barrels of crude oil daily, highlighting the strategic importance of this joint venture in strengthening their roles as key energy exporters and enhancing Gulf cooperation.

Mauritius is the country designated to regain control over the Chagos Archipelago under a recent agreement with the United Kingdom. However, the deal notably excludes Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, which will remain under UK-U.S. control for military purposes through a 99-year lease. This arrangement continues to spark controversy, especially among the Chagossian diaspora, many of whom were forcibly evicted in the 1960s. Despite international pressure from bodies like the ICJ and the UN General Assembly, the partial handover highlights the tension between decolonisation efforts and strategic military interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Indian scientists have achieved a significant milestone by successfully assembling the chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak, a vital high-altitude species. This breakthrough utilized long-read sequencing and advanced bioinformatics to accurately map genes to specific chromosomes. The genomic data is expected to enhance allele mining, which helps identify valuable genetic traits like disease resistance and productivity. This research supports improved livestock management, especially in Indian Himalayan regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh. The accomplishment marks a key advancement in India's scientific capabilities and commitment to conserving indigenous animal species.

On May 22, 2025, Saudi Arabia launched TOURISE, a global platform aimed at shaping the future of tourism by uniting leaders from the tourism, technology, investment, and sustainability sectors. Spearheaded by Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb, the initiative is part of the kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy and become a global tourism leader. Having already surpassed its goal of attracting 100 million visitors by 2024, Saudi Arabia is now focusing on sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced tourism models. TOURISE is intended to foster collaboration, address key industry challenges, and guide the development of future global travel policies.

Algeria officially joined the New Development Bank (NDB) on May 19, 2025, marking a significant step in its international financial and development engagement. The NDB, established by BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), aims to finance infrastructure and sustainable development projects globally, especially in emerging economies. Algeria’s accession to the Shanghai-headquartered institution reinforces its commitment to sustainable growth and international cooperation, particularly in South-South partnerships. As a North African nation rich in energy resources and strategically positioned between Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, Algeria’s membership boosts the NDB’s global reach and diversifies its regional representation.