Current Affairs - International

Super Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm to hit Asia in over a decade, caused widespread devastation across Southeast Asia. It made landfall in southern China’s Hainan province with winds exceeding 230 km/h, prompting mass evacuations and extensive damage. Prior to this, it had already caused fatalities and destruction in the northern Philippines. Yagi, classified as a Category 4-equivalent storm, is expected to continue towards Vietnam, further disrupting the region. This event highlights the increasing intensity of tropical cyclones, which scientists attribute to climate change and warming oceans.

India has set a goal to boost its alcoholic beverage exports to Rs 8,000 crore (US$ 952.9 million) as part of its broader initiative to enhance its global market presence. This effort is supported by the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative. India is currently ranked 40th in global alcoholic beverage exports and aims to increase this ranking through key products like the 'Godawan' single-malt whisky and by expanding export markets in the US, Africa, and Europe.

Brazil, alongside India, resolved a World Trade Organization (WTO) trade dispute concerning sugar subsidies. This resolution is part of their broader strategic partnership, which includes collaboration in areas such as ethanol technology and addressing global sugar surplus issues. The two nations have a comprehensive bilateral relationship, including engagements in strategic dialogue, trade forums, and various cooperative mechanisms. This resolution also underscores their joint efforts to tackle global challenges affecting sugar prices and trade.

The 20th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) was held in Incheon, South Korea, from September 2-6, 2024. This meeting brought together coast guard agencies from across Asia to discuss important maritime issues, including maritime law enforcement, safety and security at sea, marine environment protection, and the fight against illicit trafficking. Hosted by the South Korean Coast Guard, it aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation in the region.

During the Prime Minister's visit, India and Singapore upgraded their bilateral relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership." This enhancement involves signing four MOUs focused on semiconductors, connectivity, and digital technologies. The partnership aims to strengthen trade, investment flows, and cooperation in defence, maritime security, and green initiatives. Additionally, both countries celebrated the 60th anniversary of their bilateral relations and discussed broader regional issues. The collaboration aligns with India’s Act East Policy and underscores the deepening ties between the two nations.