Current Affairs - International

Sabita Bhandari, a senior advocate, has been appointed as the new Attorney General of Nepal, making history as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Her appointment was made by President Ramchandra Paudel based on the recommendation of Prime Minister Sushila Karki. She succeeds Ramesh Badal in this vital constitutional role. This development is significant not only for Nepal’s judiciary but also for gender representation in the country’s governance. With its capital in Kathmandu, Nepal continues to evolve in terms of inclusivity and leadership representation, marking a milestone in its political and legal landscape.

The Freedom Edge military exercise, conducted from September 15–19, 2025, was held near Jeju Island, South Korea. This trilateral exercise involved the United States, South Korea, and Japan, focusing on missile defence, air and naval operations, cyber coordination, and medical evacuation drills. It represents the most advanced trilateral drill to date and highlights growing defence cooperation between the three allies in response to North Korea’s nuclear and missile advancements. While the exercise emphasised deterrence, Pyongyang condemned it as a provocation, warning of consequences. The event also aligns with commitments made at the Camp David summit to strengthen trilateral security.

The United States, in collaboration with the United Kingdom, launched the ‘Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy’. This initiative focuses on strengthening cooperation in nuclear energy development, accelerating the deployment of advanced reactors, and reducing dependency on Russian nuclear fuel sources. The agreements involve US-based companies building nuclear projects overseas, showcasing America’s leading role in the global nuclear sector. These deals will be officially signed during President Donald Trump’s state visit to London. The partnership highlights a strategic effort to secure clean energy solutions while reinforcing transatlantic ties in the field of nuclear technology and energy security.

India and Norway held their inaugural Maritime Security, Disarmament, and Non-Proliferation Dialogue in Oslo on 13 September 2025. This marked a significant step in strengthening their strategic partnership, focusing on maritime stability, adherence to international law, and cooperation in global security matters. The discussions covered nuclear and conventional disarmament, maritime law under UNCLOS, and protection of critical infrastructure like ports and undersea cables. Both nations also committed to countering piracy, smuggling, and trafficking while enhancing capacity building and surveillance. Norway’s involvement highlights its role as a leading maritime power and NATO member, while India gains a crucial partner in the North Atlantic and Arctic security framework.

India is collaborating with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Myanmar to secure rare-earth mineral samples and diversify its supply chain beyond China. The KIA, founded in 1961, controls the Chipwe-Pangwa mining belt in Kachin state, a key source of heavy rare earths such as dysprosium and terbium. These minerals are crucial for advanced technologies, including EVs, missiles, medical equipment, and renewable energy systems. As China dominates global rare earth production and processing, India’s partnership with Myanmar aims to strengthen supply security, reduce strategic dependence, and support the goals of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) launched in 2025.