Current Affairs - International

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $350 million policy-based loan agreement with the Government of India under the second subprogram of the Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) initiative. This loan aims to enhance India's logistics sector through reforms, infrastructure development, and digital integration, contributing to the efficiency of logistics, strengthening the manufacturing sector, and promoting sustainable economic growth. The agreement involves stakeholders such as the Department of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.

China set a new global spacewalk record with two astronauts, Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong, completing a nine-hour extravehicular activity (EVA) outside the Tiangong space station. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 8 hours and 56 minutes held by U.S. astronauts since 2001. The record-setting spacewalk highlights China’s growing presence in space exploration and its ambitious plans for future lunar missions, marking a significant milestone in its space program.

India is collaborating with France Museums Développement (FMD) to establish the Yuga Yugeen Bharat National Museum, set to become the world’s largest cultural institution. This museum will be located in New Delhi and span 1,55,000 square meters. The collaboration draws on France's extensive expertise in museum development, inspired by renowned projects like the Louvre. The museum will not only celebrate India's civilizational history but also reflect a significant partnership between India and France in cultural heritage preservation and development.

Thailand hosted the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting (SOM), where Jaideep Mazumdar represented India. The meeting focused on progress in sustainable development, connectivity, and security since March 2023. India's participation aligns with its strategic policies such as Neighbourhood First, Vision SAGAR, and Act East. Additionally, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has highlighted India's commitment to enhancing maritime and digital connectivity within the BIMSTEC framework, reflecting the importance of regional collaboration.

Bhutan conferred the rare 'Dasho' title and Red Scarf on Indian educationist Arun Kapur at the 117th National Day celebrations. The honour, usually reserved for senior Bhutanese officials, acknowledges Kapur's significant contributions to education in both India and Bhutan. This recognition highlights his long-standing role in shaping education, including his work in establishing the Royal Academy school in Bhutan and his leadership at Vasant Valley School in Delhi. Arun Kapur's achievements in educational development have earned him this prestigious award from Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel.