1. India Approves Additional 251 MW Power Exports from Nepal
Tags: International Relations
India’s Designated Authority for Cross-Border Trade has approved an additional 251 MW of power exports from 12 Nepali hydropower projects.
An Overview of the News
This increases the total allowed power exports from Nepal to India from 690 MW (from 16 projects) to 941 MW (from 28 projects).
Growth in Power Exports
Nepal, already a net exporter of electricity and revenue generator, sold NPR 16.93 billion worth of electricity in the last fiscal year.
Power exports from Nepal to India, which began with 39 MW in October 2021, have surged more than 24 times in less than three years.
New Agreements and Market Access
Nepal has gained access to the Real-Time Market in addition to the Day Ahead Market of the Indian Energy Exchange.
Medium-term power sales agreements have been established with distribution companies in Haryana and Bihar.
India has included hydropower imports from Nepal in the Hydropower Purchase Obligation (HPO) for Indian buyers, incentivizing purchases.
Future Prospects
The Agreement for Long-Term Power between India and Nepal aims to sell up to 10,000 MW of Nepali power to India over the next decade, with around 1,000 MW already achieved this year.
Nepal is on track to become the leading hydropower exporter in South Asia.
A planned agreement for 40 MW power export to Bangladesh was postponed due to recent political developments.
About Nepal
The kingdom of Nepal was established by the Shah dynasty.
It is a landlocked country in South Asia.
Capital - Kathmandu
Currency - Nepalese Rupee
President - Ram Chandra Paudel
Vice President -Ram Sahaya Yadav
Prime Minister - KP Sharma Oli
Chief Justice - Bishowambhar Prasad Shrestha
2. India and New Zealand Sign Customs Cooperation Agreement
Tags: International Relations International News
India and New Zealand signed a Bilateral Customs Cooperation Arrangement to strengthen trade between the two countries.
An Overview of the News
The agreement was formalized in Wellington on August 8, 2024, during President Droupadi Murmu's official visit to New Zealand.
President Murmu’s Three-Nation Tour:
President Draupadi Murmu was on an official visit to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor Leste.
Her visit to New Zealand occurred on August 8 and 9, 2024.
Diplomatic Engagements:
President Murmu received a traditional Maori greeting in Wellington.
She was welcomed by New Zealand's Governor General, Dame Cindy Kiro, and met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters.
Discussions focused on exchanging best practices in traditional medicine through the WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
India-New Zealand Relations:
India established a Trade Mission in New Zealand in 1950, later becoming a High Commission.
As of June 2023, India is New Zealand's 15th largest trading partner, with trade valued at US$1.56 billion.
New Zealand exports wool, edible fruits and nuts, and forest products to India, while India exports precious metals and gems, textiles, motor vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and non-knitted apparel to New Zealand.
About New Zealand
Independence: From the UK in 1947
Head of State: UK Monarch, King Charles III
Capital: Wellington
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Unique Species: Flightless bird Kiwi
Prime Minister: Christopher Luxon
3. Ukraine and Poland Solidify Defense Partnership with New Security Agreement
Tags: International Relations International News
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk finalized a long-term security agreement in Warsaw.
An Overview of the News
The agreement solidifies Poland's strong support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.
Strategic Alliance:
The agreement marks a strategic alliance between Poland and Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical challenges in Eastern Europe.
Discussions focused on defense cooperation and Poland's support for Ukraine's integration into Europe.
Humanitarian Support:
Poland, a key advocate within the EU, has provided significant humanitarian aid and refuge to Ukrainian war refugees.
Approximately one million refugees currently seek shelter in Poland, emphasizing its role as a haven amidst the crisis.
Geopolitical Context:
Zelenskyy's visit aimed to strengthen international solidarity and support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.
The visit coincided with a serious escalation in hostilities, including a missile strike on a children's hospital in Kyiv.
India-Poland Relations:
India and Poland enjoy a long-standing political relationship dating back to 1954, marked by regular high-level visits and strong diplomatic ties.
Economically, Poland is India's largest trading partner in Central & Eastern Europe, with bilateral trade reaching $2.73 billion in 2020.
Both countries collaborate extensively in sectors such as mining, IT, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, supported by multiple bilateral agreements.
Cultural ties are strengthened through Indology studies at Polish universities and widespread practice of yoga in Poland.
Consular relations have improved with facilities like e-visas and the establishment of an honorary consulate in Wroclaw, reflecting growing people-to-people contacts and a vibrant Indian community in Poland.
India-Russia Partnership:
Russia has been a longstanding and trusted partner for India, with ties deepening significantly since the 2000 "India-Russia Strategic Partnership" declaration.
The partnership spans various domains, including political, security, defence, trade, technology, and culture, and was elevated to a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" in 2010.
Institutionalized dialogues, such as the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission and the 2+2 Dialogue, ensure regular high-level engagement.
Bilateral trade reached an all-time high of $65.70 billion in FY 2023-24, with significant cooperation in defence and technology, including joint projects like the S-400 system and Kudankulam Nuclear Plant.
The relationship remains strong, with both countries committed to expanding cooperation in new areas, supporting a multipolar world order.
4. Bangladesh Navy Inks Deal for 'Made in India' 800-Ton Ocean-Going Tug with GRSE
Tags: International Relations
Bangladesh Navy signs a contract for a "Made in India" 800-tonne ocean-going tug with Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.
An Overview of the News
This is the second contract for GRSE this month, following a $16.6 million deal with the Bangladesh Inland Waterways Transport Authority (BIWTA) to build a dredger.
Admiral Tripathi's Visit
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi visits Bangladesh for a four-day official visit.
The visit coincides with the contract signing between Bangladesh Navy and GRSE.
Bilateral Relations and Agreements
The visit follows Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's bilateral visit to India on June 21-22.
Agreements were signed to strengthen ties in the maritime sphere and blue economy.
Bangladesh decided to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), a forum promoted by India for collaborative solutions to common challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Purpose of the Visit
The visit aims to consolidate bilateral defence relations between India and Bangladesh.
Exploration of new avenues for naval cooperation.
5. US and Ukraine Forge Long-Term Security Pact Amid G7 Summit in Italy
Tags: International Relations Summits
The US and Ukraine signed a long-term security agreement during the G7 summit in Italy.
An Overview of the News
On June 13, 2024, during the 2024 G7 summit in Italy, President Joe Biden of the USA and President Volodymr Zelensky of Ukraine concluded a 10-year bilateral security agreement.
Similar agreements have been reached previously with 15 other countries, such as Britain, France, and Germany.
The agreement covers a wide range of cooperation levels between the US and Ukraine, including military equipment, training, and maneuvers.
However, it does not include commitments to supply specific weapons systems to Ukraine.
About G7
The G7 is a group of seven major industrialized countries, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The G7 holds annual meetings to discuss various global issues, but these meetings are usually held in different locations each year.
The 48th G7 summit was hosted by Germany in 2022.
The city of Hiroshima in Hiroshima Prefecture hosted the 49th G7 summit from May 19th to May 21st, 2023.
The 50th G7 summit is currently taking place from June 13th to June 15th, 2024, at Borgo Egnazia in Fasano, Apulia, Italy. Italy is hosting the 50th G7 summit.
6. India Sends Humanitarian Aid to Papua New Guinea
Tags: International Relations International News
India dispatched a flight with 19 tons of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies to Papua New Guinea.
An Overview of the News
Response to Disaster: The aid is in response to a devastating landslide in Enga province, Papua New Guinea.
Aid Details
Disaster Relief Material: 13 tons of supplies, including temporary shelters, water tanks, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat meals.
Medical Supplies: 6 tons of emergency use medicine and medical equipment, including dengue and malaria diagnostic kits and baby food.
Geographical Background Of Papua New Guinea:
New Guinea, the world's second-largest island, covers an area of 785,753 km2.
Situated in Oceania, it lies in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, adjacent to Australia, separated by the Torres Strait.
The island is surrounded by numerous smaller islands to the west and east.
India-Papua New Guinea Relations:
Diplomatic ties between India and Papua New Guinea were established in 1975 upon PNG's independence from Australia.
India opened its resident mission in Port Moresby in 1996, reciprocated by PNG with a resident mission in New Delhi in 2006.
Both nations, being Commonwealth countries, share warm relations, aligning closely on various global issues.
Collaboration extends to international forums like the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement, and the United Nations Organization.
Humanitarian Aid and Assistance:
India extends humanitarian aid and disaster relief to PNG periodically.
In 2023, assistance included drugs for HIV/AIDS patients.
A grant-in-aid totaling US $760,000 provided computers and peripherals to PNG in 2017-18.
Capacity-building efforts involve training through programs like Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and the Colombo Plan.
Ongoing implementation of aid proposals in various fields submitted by PNG under the annual grant-in-aid.
A Centre of Excellence in Information Technology was established at the University of PNG with Indian financial and technical assistance.
In 2018, Government of India provided assistance of US$1 million for earthquake relief in areas affected by the PNG earthquake.
7. India announces $1 million relief assistance to landslide-hit Papua New Guinea
Tags: International Relations International News
India announces immediate relief assistance of one million US dollars to aid Papua New Guinea.
An Overview of the News
The assistance aims to support relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts following a devastating landslide in Enga Province on May 24th.
The landslide buried hundreds of people, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.
Condolences and Support:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses grief over the loss of lives and damage caused by the landslide.
In a social media post, Mr. Modi extends heartfelt condolences to the affected families and offers prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.
India stands ready to offer all possible support and assistance to Papua New Guinea during this difficult time.
Geographical Background Of Papua New Guinea:
New Guinea, the world's second-largest island, covers an area of 785,753 km2.
Situated in Oceania, it lies in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, adjacent to Australia, separated by the Torres Strait.
The island is surrounded by numerous smaller islands to the west and east.
India-Papua New Guinea Relations:
Diplomatic ties between India and Papua New Guinea were established in 1975 upon PNG's independence from Australia.
India opened its resident mission in Port Moresby in 1996, reciprocated by PNG with a resident mission in New Delhi in 2006.
Both nations, being Commonwealth countries, share warm relations, aligning closely on various global issues.
Collaboration extends to international forums like the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement, and the United Nations Organization.
Humanitarian Aid and Assistance:
India extends humanitarian aid and disaster relief to PNG periodically.
In 2023, assistance included drugs for HIV/AIDS patients.
A grant-in-aid totaling US $760,000 provided computers and peripherals to PNG in 2017-18.
Capacity-building efforts involve training through programs like Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) and the Colombo Plan.
Ongoing implementation of aid proposals in various fields submitted by PNG under the annual grant-in-aid.
A Centre of Excellence in Information Technology was established at the University of PNG with Indian financial and technical assistance.
In 2018, Government of India provided assistance of US$1 million for earthquake relief in areas affected by the PNG earthquake.
8. India-UK Hold 16th Counter-Terrorism Meeting in New Delhi
Tags: International Relations
The 16th meeting of the India-United Kingdom Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism took place in New Delhi.
An Overview of the News
The Indian delegation was led by K.D Dewal, Joint Secretary for Counter-Terrorism in the Ministry of External Affairs.
The UK delegation was led by Chris Felton, Head of the Counter Terrorism Network for Asia and Oceania, Government of the United Kingdom.
Discussions centered around ongoing counter-terrorism cooperation between India and the UK.
Both nations emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation to combat terrorism comprehensively and sustainably.
The External Affairs Ministry stated that both sides shared their assessments of terrorist and extremist threats in their respective territories and regions.
Discussions included threats posed by globally sanctioned terrorist entities and individuals.
United Kingdom:
It includes England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
It is an island nation located in northwestern Europe.
Capital and largest city - London
Prime Minister - Rishi Sunak
9. PM Modi Unveils Cutting-edge Medical Center in Thimphu
Tags: International Relations International News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay jointly inaugurated Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck Mother and Child Hospital in Bhutan's capital Thimphu.
An Overview of the News
This hospital is an example of the strong development cooperation between India and Bhutan.
The hospital has a state-of-the-art 150-bed facility built with Indian assistance.
Built in two phases, the first phase costing ₹22 crore became operational in 2019, while the second phase, completed recently, was undertaken as part of Bhutan’s 12th Five Year Plan at a cost of ₹119 crore.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Prime Minister Modi’s visit aims to bolster the unique and long-standing friendship between India and Bhutan.
During his visit, PM Modi met with Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and held talks with Prime Minister Tobgay.
Recognition and Support
The King of Bhutan confers the prestigious ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo’ on PM Modi, making him the first foreign Head of Government to receive this honor.
India pledges ₹10,000 crore in support to Bhutan over the next five years, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two nations.
About Bhutan:
Capital- Thimphu
King - Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk
Currencies - Bhutanese Ngultrum, Indian Rupee
Official language- Dzongkha
10. India and UAE sign MoU for advanced technical cooperation
Tags: International Relations
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
An Overview of the News
The signatories include Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry of India and Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates.
The signing took place in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
Focus areas of cooperation:
The MoU entails collaborative efforts in several key areas, including:
Supply chain flexibility
Clean energy technology
Health care
Space exploration
Industry 4.0
Advanced technologies
Industrial standards
These sectors were chosen to facilitate industrial investment, technology transfer and implementation of innovations for mutual benefit.
Strategic Objective:
The primary goal of this historic agreement is to promote industrial development and technological progress in both countries.
The agreement seeks to enhance sustainable economic growth and competitiveness by promoting innovation and technological excellence.
It aims to facilitate the transfer of advanced technologies and promote sustainable practices, including clean energy and climate neutrality.
Seven key areas of focus:
The MoU identifies seven specific areas of cooperation, including:
Increase supply chain flexibility
Progress in renewable energy and energy efficiency
Collaborative efforts in health care and life sciences
Strengthening space industries, including commercial development and space exploration
Deploying AI technologies in various sectors
Emphasis on Industry 4.0 technologies and automation
Standardization and metrology to harmonize industrial standards and certification processes.
Promoting Cooperation:
The MoU encourages various forms of cooperation including industrial and academic partnerships.
Collaborative research and development projects are promoted to advance technological advancements.
Sharing of best practices in science and technology policies is encouraged to ensure the comprehensive nature of the partnership and its potential to benefit both countries.
