Current Affairs - International

Armenia has become the largest importer of arms from India, purchasing weapons worth a total of $600 million by the beginning of the financial year 2024-25. The equipment purchased includes the Pinaka multiple-launch rocket system, Akash anti-aircraft system, howitzers, anti-tank rockets, and anti-drone systems. Armenia's defence partnership with India is part of its strategy to strengthen its military capabilities. Armenia's capital is Yerevan, and its currency is the Armenian Dram. The current president of Armenia is Vahagn Khachaturyan.

Iran has unveiled the new Shahed-136B suicide drone amid rising tensions in the Middle East. This drone is part of Iran's military modernization program and represents an upgraded version of the previous Shahed-136 model. The Shahed-136B features enhanced capabilities, including a range of over 4,000 kilometres and a more powerful warhead. Its design improvements, such as a reduced radar signature and a turbojet engine, increase its stealth and effectiveness, making it comparable to cruise missiles. The unveiling highlights Iran's focus on advancing its military technology in the context of regional instability.

India is set to expand its diplomatic presence in the United States with the opening of two new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the Indian diaspora in Long Island, New York. This move strengthens India's relationship with the U.S. and underscores the importance of the Indian community, which Modi referred to as "Rashtradoots." The opening of these consulates reflects India's growing diplomatic and economic engagement with the United States.

Russia and China are collaborating on joint naval and air drills in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk, which also includes a joint maritime patrol in the Pacific. These exercises aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries' militaries, focusing on practical actions for defending maritime communications and protecting areas of economic activity in the region. This partnership demonstrates a strategic alliance between Russia and China, particularly in the context of regional security and military preparedness in the Pacific area.

Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, a Senegalese finance expert, has been appointed as the first director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage, which aims to assist countries affected by climate disasters. His appointment comes as the fund, which was created under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), prepares to utilize the $800 million pledged for this cause. This fund is significant for developing nations that have long advocated for support against climate impacts. Diong's leadership is expected to facilitate the distribution of funds, emphasizing the urgent need for financial backing ahead of future climate summits.