Current Affairs - International

India and Taiwan have implemented the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for organic products, marking the first bilateral agreement for organic products between the two countries. The agreement, executed by APEDA from India and AFA from Taiwan, aims to streamline organic product exports by avoiding dual certifications, reducing compliance costs, and enhancing trade opportunities. This will facilitate the export of key Indian organic products such as rice, processed food, green/black and herbal tea, and medicinal plant products to Taiwan, boosting trade in the organic sector.

India has expressed its support for Mauritius regarding the Chagos Archipelago issue, aligning with its stance on decolonization. The Chagos Archipelago, an overseas territory of the United Kingdom, has been a point of contention, with Mauritius asserting its claim over the islands since gaining independence in 1968. The International Court of Justice ruled in 2019 that the UK's governance of the Chagos Islands was unlawful and called for its withdrawal.

Ursula von der Leyen was re-elected for a second five-year term as President of the European Commission on July 18, securing a majority vote from European Parliament lawmakers. This re-election ensures leadership continuity for the EU as it navigates multiple challenges, including the war in Ukraine, climate change, and migration issues. Von der Leyen’s victory was celebrated as a win for pro-European and pro-democracy forces.

India completed its 4th periodic review by the Human Rights Committee under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in Geneva. This review took place on July 15-16, 2024, and involved discussions on various human rights issues, showcasing India's commitment to protecting and promoting civil and political rights. Geneva, a major hub for international diplomacy, is home to many important UN bodies, including the Human Rights Committee, making it the venue for this significant review process.

India is preparing to sign a headquarters agreement with the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA), an organization launched in September 2023 by key G20 members including India, the United States, and Brazil. This agreement will grant the GBA diplomatic status and recognition as an international organization within India, enabling it to function more efficiently on the global stage. This step highlights India's commitment to advancing sustainable energy initiatives and its pivotal role in the GBA’s institutional development.