Current Affairs - International

The BRS COPs 2025 conference, where India played a pivotal role in pushing for global action on chemicals and waste, was held in Geneva. Led by India's Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, the Indian delegation emphasized the need for collaborative solutions to plastic pollution, technology transfer, and financial support for developing nations. The conference’s theme, "Make visible the invisible," highlighted the global concern over chemical mismanagement. India reaffirmed its leadership in environmental governance by promoting its regulatory framework and advocating for stronger international agreements to address chemical and waste challenges.

Nepal is introducing a new draft law to limit Mount Everest access only to climbers who have prior experience scaling peaks above 7,000 meters. This move is part of the country’s broader effort to address the growing issues of overcrowding, rising fatalities, and environmental degradation on the world’s highest mountain. By ensuring that only experienced mountaineers attempt Everest, Nepal aims to improve safety standards and promote more sustainable expedition practices. The new regulation is also seen as a step toward preserving the ecological integrity of the Everest region, which has increasingly suffered from waste accumulation and unregulated tourism.

The United States has signed an economic partnership agreement with Ukraine, granting it access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals—critical for advanced technologies, including defence and clean energy sectors. In return, the agreement includes the formation of a joint Reconstruction Investment Fund aimed at aiding Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts amid ongoing challenges. This strategic move not only strengthens economic ties between the two nations but also aligns their interests in geopolitical stability and resource security. Ukraine’s rich mineral reserves play a crucial role in global supply chains, making this deal significant for both economic and strategic reasons.

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.