Current Affairs - International

India and the United States signed an agreement aimed at bolstering the critical mineral supply chain in response to concerns over China's dominance in this sector. The agreement seeks to leverage the complementary strengths of both countries to enhance resilience in sourcing critical minerals, which are vital for modern technologies such as electric vehicles, solar panels, and semiconductor manufacturing. Given the growing reliance on these minerals and the restrictions imposed by China on key exports, this partnership is essential for ensuring a stable supply chain and advancing clean technology initiatives in both nations.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's state visit to India aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations, building on their traditionally significant relationship. This visit is significant as it follows an official invitation from Indian President Droupadi Murmu and marks President Muizzu's first bilateral visit to India with the Maldivian First Lady. The relationship between India and Maldives is crucial due to their geographical proximity and shared cultural, economic, and strategic ties. India has been a key partner for Maldives, providing humanitarian aid, development assistance, and maritime security cooperation.

Taiwan has received its first batch of US-made Harpoon missile systems to strengthen its coastal defence. The Harpoon is an all-weather, over-the-horizon, anti-ship missile designed by McDonnell Douglas. These shore-mounted systems enhance Taiwan's ability to defend against naval threats, utilizing active radar homing and low-altitude flight patterns to evade enemy defences. The delivery of these missile systems is a strategic move aimed at bolstering Taiwan's maritime security, especially in light of growing regional tensions.

Italy and Switzerland are revising their Alpine border due to the significant impact of climate change on glaciers. Rising global temperatures are causing glaciers to shrink, altering natural watershed lines that historically defined the frontier between the two nations. This adjustment has economic implications, particularly for tourism-dependent regions, and highlights the broader consequences of climate change on natural boundaries and ecosystems. The border change primarily affects areas around the Matterhorn, with Italy expected to lose territory and Switzerland gaining it. This development underscores the urgent need for adaptive measures to address climate-driven geographical shifts.

India is set to participate in Euronaval 2024, which will be held in France, specifically in Paris. The event, scheduled for November, will see participation from 104 countries and focus on innovations in naval defence, addressing modern challenges such as drones and next-generation missiles. Euronaval 2024 aims to present resilient, adaptable, and sustainable solutions for future naval forces, drawing lessons from global conflicts, such as in Ukraine while emphasizing the importance of agility and maritime capabilities in evolving naval strategies.