Current Affairs - International

The BIMSTEC Youth Summit 2025 is taking place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from 7th to 11th February. This event aims to enhance cooperation among youth from BIMSTEC nations by fostering dialogue on sustainable development and youth-led initiatives. Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the summit on 8th February, emphasizing the theme “Youth as a Bridge for Intra-BIMSTEC Exchange.” The discussions and engagements during the summit are expected to strengthen regional collaboration and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Argentina, under President Javier Milei’s leadership, has decided to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) due to "profound differences" in health management, particularly during COVID-19. This decision reflects concerns over external influence on national health policies. Argentina, which contributed $8 million to WHO’s $6.9 billion budget, opposes international intervention in its healthcare system. The move is similar to U.S. President Donald Trump's earlier decision to exit WHO on January 21, 2025, highlighting a broader debate on national sovereignty versus global health governance.

Panama has announced its withdrawal from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) under President Jose Raúl Mulino. This decision reflects a geopolitical shift influenced by U.S. concerns over China’s growing involvement in Panama’s infrastructure, particularly near the strategic Panama Canal. Initially, Panama joined the BRI in 2017 to enhance trade and connectivity, allowing Chinese firms to undertake major projects. However, increasing U.S. pressure and concerns over national sovereignty led to the decision to exit the initiative, signalling a re-evaluation of Chinese investments in the country while strengthening ties with the United States.

Iran has introduced Shahid Beheshti, its first drone and helicopter-launching ship, into the Revolutionary Guards' fleet. The vessel, originally a commercial ship, has been modified to feature a 180-meter runway and can operate for up to a year without refuelling. This addition strengthens Iran’s naval capabilities, particularly for long-range operations, and supports the launch of larger drones such as the Qaher and Mohajer-6. The move highlights Iran’s focus on expanding its military presence in distant waters.

Australia has enacted strict hate crime laws, introducing a minimum 12-month jail sentence for public Nazi salutes and harsher penalties for terror-related hate crimes, with sentences of up to six years. New South Wales, the most affected state, is aligning its laws with Victoria and Western Australia to address rising antisemitic incidents. Premier Chris Minns emphasized the importance of these reforms following an increase in synagogue vandalism and targeted violence. These measures aim to curb extremist behaviour and reinforce Australia's commitment to combating hate crimes.