Current Affairs - International

On January 17, 2025, China successfully launched Pakistan’s first indigenous Electro-Optical Satellite (PRSC-EO1) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using the Long March-2D rocket. This satellite is equipped with advanced electro-optical sensors to enhance Pakistan’s capabilities in Earth observation, disaster management, resource monitoring, and urban planning. This launch signifies a continuation of China-Pakistan collaboration in space technology, building on earlier satellite launches and cooperative projects for communication and lunar exploration.

India and Singapore marked 60 years of diplomatic relations with a commemorative logo unveiled by President Droupadi Murmu and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. The logo features elements from the flags and national flowers (lotus and orchid) of both countries. Singapore, an island country in Southeast Asia, has strong cultural ties with India, as ethnic Indians constitute around 9% of its resident population.

The United States House of Representatives passed a bill titled the "Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act" (H.R. 28), which bars transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports at federally funded schools. The bill, defining sex based on birth biology, passed with a vote of 218-206, largely along party lines. Representative Greg Steube introduced the bill, which aims to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports, a significant issue in the ongoing debate surrounding transgender rights and fairness in athletics.

India and Spain have jointly declared 2026 as a 'dual year' to focus on cultural exchanges, tourism promotion, and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative aims to enhance bilateral ties between the two countries, featuring cultural events, tourism fairs, and AI research collaborations. The year will also see increased efforts to promote tourism and bilateral trade, further strengthening the relationship between India and Spain. The Indian diaspora in Spain plays an important role in fostering closer ties, contributing to both economies and promoting mutual understanding.

India is in the final stages of a $450 million BrahMos missile deal with Indonesia. This deal is expected to be officially announced during the Indonesian President’s visit for Republic Day 2025. India may offer financing for this deal through a loan via the State Bank of India or another national bank. Indonesia's strategic partnership with India has been strengthened since it joined the BRICS in January 2024. The BrahMos missile system, which is part of this deal, was jointly developed by India and Russia.