Current Affairs - International

India and New Zealand formalized a Bilateral Customs Cooperation Arrangement on 8 August 2024 during President Droupadi Murmu’s official visit to New Zealand. This agreement aims to simplify trade procedures between the two nations. President Murmu’s visit to New Zealand was part of a broader three-nation tour, which also included Fiji and Timor Leste, highlighting the strengthening of international ties and cooperation.

Zambia hosted the 4th Foreign Office Consultations with India in Lusaka, which aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas such as education, defence, and trade. Zambia, a landlocked country in southern Africa, shares borders with several countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Mozambique. This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

China has announced the discovery of the Lingshui 36-1 gas field in the South China Sea, marking it as the world's first large, ultra-shallow gas field in ultra-deep waters. This field is estimated to contain over 100 billion cubic meters of natural gas, which could significantly impact regional geopolitics given the South China Sea's contested nature. The discovery is part of China's broader strategy to enhance its energy security, particularly given its status as the world's largest natural gas importer. The findings could exacerbate existing geopolitical tensions involving various countries and international stakeholders.

The 2,700-year-old Etruscan cult temple, or Oikos, was discovered at the Sasso Pinzuto necropolis in Tuscany, Italy. This archaeological find is significant because it provides insights into the ancient Etruscan civilization, which flourished in central Italy between the Tiber and Arno rivers. The Etruscan civilization had a profound influence on Roman culture and society. The discovered temple, part of a larger necropolis with over 120 chamber tombs, offers valuable information about Etruscan religious practices and architectural styles, highlighting their connection to funerary rites and symbolic elevations.

Australia has announced the Maitri Research and Cultural Partnerships Grants to foster collaboration with India. These grants support projects in sustainable manufacturing, energy transition research, and artistic endeavours, with the goal of strengthening bilateral ties and promoting closer cooperation between the two nations. The initiative underscores the importance of human connections and people-to-people links, as highlighted by Minister Penny Wong and Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for Australia-India Relations.