Current Affairs - International

India took a major step in global wildlife conservation by signing the Headquarters Agreement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). This agreement not only allows the IBCA to be headquartered in India but also includes significant financial backing of ₹150 crore for its infrastructure and operational costs. The alliance, established in 2023, aims to protect and conserve seven species of big cats such as tigers, lions, and leopards. Additionally, India’s commitment ensures support through visa facilitation, immunities, and other provisions necessary for the alliance to function effectively from its Indian base.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been elected to chair INTERPOL’s Committee on Governance, marking a significant step in its rising influence in global security and law enforcement. Lt. Col. Dana Humaid Al Marzouqi from the UAE Ministry of Interior was appointed as chair after securing 67% of the votes from INTERPOL's member states. This leadership role reflects the UAE's growing credibility and commitment to transparent and inclusive governance in international policing, further enhancing its diplomatic presence and strategic influence in global law enforcement policymaking.

Italy is actively enhancing its strategic relationship with India by focusing on sectors such as trade, defence, clean energy, and infrastructure. The partnership was further solidified during the visit of the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, where both nations emphasized cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and the Joint Strategic Action Plan (JSAP) 2025–29. These initiatives aim to foster technological collaboration, boost bilateral investments, and support connectivity projects. The partnership also highlights shared geopolitical goals, including a secure and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, reflecting a broader vision for global stability and mutual growth in innovation and youth mobility.

Bangladesh relied heavily on India’s transhipment facilities, particularly for exporting goods like readymade garments to Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Due to its limited deep-sea port infrastructure, Bangladesh used Indian ports and airports under a facility that began in 2020. This arrangement enhanced regional connectivity and trade under the BBIN framework. However, in April 2025, India withdrew this facility citing severe congestion at its ports and airports. This move has disrupted Bangladesh’s logistics chain, increased export costs, and may drive the country to seek alternative trade corridors, including greater engagement with China for regional access and infrastructure development.

The United States approved Holtec International to transfer unclassified SMR technology to three Indian private companies under regulation 10CFR810. This move operationalizes the 2008 India-US Civil Nuclear Deal, or 123 Agreement, by allowing private sector involvement in India’s nuclear energy sector. The authorization is valid for ten years and ensures compliance with global non-proliferation norms, as technology use is limited to peaceful civilian purposes under IAEA safeguards. The deal promotes indigenous manufacturing and positions India as a hub for nuclear technology, especially in the Global South. It marks a significant shift from state-controlled to public-private partnerships in nuclear development.