Current Affairs - International

India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Argentina to expand cooperation in the mining sector, specifically focusing on lithium exploration. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral ties between the two countries, with a key focus on the exploration and development of critical minerals like lithium. Argentina, known for its vast lithium reserves, is a vital partner for India in securing resources necessary for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage, crucial components for India’s green energy transition.

The Indian Navy’s 1st Training Squadron, consisting of INS Sujata and ICGS Veera, concluded a three-day visit to Sihanoukville, Cambodia. The visit aimed at strengthening naval ties between India and Cambodia, with discussions on interoperability, joint exercises, and regional security with the Royal Cambodian Navy. Additionally, a Small Arms Simulator was gifted, and cultural exchanges helped improve people-to-people relations between the two nations. This visit reflects the growing defence cooperation and collaboration between India and Cambodia.

On January 29, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared Guinea free from the gambiense form of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), a significant achievement in public health. This success was made possible through mass screenings, vector control using insecticide mini-screens, and door-to-door checks that started in 2012. Despite challenges such as the Ebola outbreak (2013-15) and the COVID-19 pandemic (2020), Guinea's resilience and consistent efforts were key in overcoming this disease.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is collaborating with India’s Department of Technology (DoT) on AI-driven digital twin technologies, has its headquarters located in Geneva, Switzerland. This partnership focuses on innovation and sustainable development through global frameworks and standards. Additionally, India has proposed to host the ITU-Plenipotentiary Conference in 2030, showcasing its growing role in global technological collaborations.

The 17th BRICS Summit will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 6-7, 2025. The summit will bring together leaders from BRICS countries and selected invited nations to discuss critical global governance reforms and cooperation. The event is particularly significant as it occurs amid U.S. threats of imposing 100% tariffs on BRICS nations, adding an extra layer of complexity to discussions. The summit is also expected to address the growing influence of BRICS and its efforts to reshape global trade and diplomacy.