Current Affairs - International

Bangladesh participated alongside China and Pakistan in a trilateral meeting held in Kunming, China. This meeting took place during the 9th China-South Asia Exposition and the 6th China-South Asia Cooperation meeting. The three nations explored opportunities for collaboration across several sectors such as infrastructure, connectivity, trade, investment, healthcare, agriculture, maritime affairs, ICT, disaster preparedness, and climate change. This engagement highlights Bangladesh's growing involvement in regional diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in South Asia, particularly in initiatives spearheaded by China.

Romania hosted ConvEx-3 (2025), the most extensive nuclear emergency simulation organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The 36-hour drill was centred around a simulated accident at Romania’s Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant and tested international coordination and readiness to respond to radiological disasters. Over 75 countries and 10 global organizations participated, making it a historic and truly global exercise. This event also marked the 20th anniversary since Romania last hosted such a simulation, reinforcing its role in promoting global nuclear safety standards and effective cross-border emergency management practices in the face of potential nuclear incidents.

Iran is actively deliberating a bill in its parliament aimed at ending its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The move comes in response to what Iran perceives as the agency's failure to uphold neutrality and fulfil its responsibilities. Tensions escalated after the Arak Heavy Water Reactor facility was attacked, an act Iran attributes to Israel. Since then, Iran has accused the IAEA of operating as a political instrument rather than a neutral regulatory body. This development has significant implications for international nuclear oversight and regional stability in the Middle East.

IFFCO, one of India's leading cooperative fertilizer companies, is establishing its first overseas nano fertiliser plant in Brazil through a joint venture with NANOFERT. This strategic move aims to produce 4.5 million litres of nano fertiliser annually, enhancing IFFCO’s global presence and contributing to cost reductions. Nano fertilisers are gaining traction for their ability to significantly improve crop productivity while reducing the need for traditional chemical fertilisers. The choice of Brazil, a major agricultural powerhouse, positions IFFCO to tap into a large market and foster sustainable farming practices internationally.

South Korea appointed Ahn Gyu-back as its first civilian Defence Minister since 1961, marking a significant political and institutional shift. This move fulfills President Lee Jae Myung's campaign promise to demilitarize top government roles and follows the ousting of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached for declaring martial law. The civilian appointment is part of a broader effort to restore democratic accountability and public trust in governance. It also reflects South Korea’s evolving political landscape, emphasizing civilian oversight in defence and signalling a more transparent and democratic approach to military and foreign policy matters.