Current Affairs - International

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, aged 73, has made a significant political comeback by winning the election in Trinidad and Tobago, marking her return as Prime Minister. She previously served in the same role from 2010 to 2015 and remains the only woman to have ever led the country. Her campaign emphasized key social welfare issues, including pension security and job creation, which resonated with voters. The ruling People's National Movement (PNM) party, led by former Prime Minister Keith Rowley, conceded defeat following the election results. Her return highlights a renewed mandate and hope for transformative leadership in the Caribbean nation.

The United States has strategically deployed anti-ship missile launchers on Batan Island, located in the Philippines, as part of a broader military posture near Taiwan. This move aligns with ongoing tensions in the region, especially following China’s extensive military drills signalling opposition to any push for Taiwan's independence. The deployment is occurring alongside the Balikatan military exercises, which involve around 9,000 US troops and forces from the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and others. These exercises are taking place near the highly contested South China Sea, reinforcing regional defence cooperation and strategic deterrence in response to rising geopolitical tensions.

The 11th BRICS Labour & Employment Ministers’ Meeting was presided over by Brazil, highlighting the country’s role in shaping the global discourse on pressing labour issues. During this meeting, member nations adopted a declaration that addressed the dual challenges of artificial intelligence's growing role in the workplace and the impact of climate change on employment trends. Brazil’s leadership in this context underscores its commitment to facilitating multilateral cooperation among BRICS countries to prepare labour forces for future disruptions and transformations in the global job market.

Bhutan hosted the 6th Joint Group of Customs (JGC) Meeting with India in Thimphu from April 24 to 25, 2025. The bilateral meeting focused on reinforcing customs cooperation, streamlining trade processes, enhancing digitisation, and improving border infrastructure. Bhutan, a landlocked nation, relies heavily on India for trade, with approximately 80% of its overall commerce conducted with its southern neighbour. With ten operational land Customs Stations along the West Bengal and Assam borders, efficient customs procedures are crucial for Bhutan’s economy. The meeting highlighted the mutual commitment to secure, modern, and technology-driven trade facilitation between the two countries.

Mark Carney, a distinguished figure in global finance, has been elected as the next prime minister of Canada. He gained international recognition by becoming the first non-British governor of the Bank of England in its 300-year history. Prior to that, he played a crucial role in leading Canada through the 2008 financial crisis as the governor of the Bank of Canada. His unique blend of economic leadership and public service positioned him as a strong candidate for national leadership, culminating in his successful run for the highest political office in Canada.