1. India & Serbia agree to set bilateral trade of 1 Billion Euros
Tags: International Relations International News
President Droupadi Murmu and her Serbian counterpart Aleksandar Vucic on 8 June in Belgrade agreed to set a target for bilateral trade from the present 320 million euros to one billion euros by the end of the decade.
An overview of the news
President Draupadi Murmu is on a three-day state visit to Serbia from June 7 to 9.
During the visit, President Draupadi Murmu highlighted that the relations between the two sides have a shared understanding of each other's core interests.
In a joint press statement, President Murmu highlighted the positive outcomes of the delegation-level talks and the resolve of the two countries to work on diverse areas of potential cooperation.
Official talks
President Murmu's official engagements in Serbia included a guard of honor at the Serbia Palace, restricted-level talks, delegation-level talks, a joint media address, and a business event.
These engagements aimed to foster closer ties and explore opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
During the bilateral interactions, both leaders emphasized their commitment to the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and territorial integrity of nations.
Fraternal Relations
President Vucic described Serbia's relationship with India as a fraternity, emphasizing the strong bond between the two countries.
He expressed that India should consider Serbia as a second motherland, underscoring the warmth and depth of their bilateral ties.
Areas of Cooperation
President Vucic identified six major areas of cooperation between India and Serbia, including defense and military technology cooperation, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, industrial cooperation, information technology, and cultural cooperation, including film production.
These areas present potential avenues for collaboration and mutual benefits.
About Serbia
Serbia is a landlocked country in the west-central Balkans. For most of the 20th century, it was a part of Yugoslavia.
Prime Minister: Ana Brnabic
Capital: Belgrade
President: Aleksandar Vučić
Currency: Serbian dinar (RSD)
2. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds talks with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin
Tags: International Relations International News
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, held discussions with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin in New Delhi on 5th June.
An overview of the news
The meeting focused on strengthening defence cooperation in various areas, including aligning strategic interests and enhancing security cooperation.
During the talks, Minister Singh emphasized the significance of the India-US partnership in ensuring a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
He expressed India's commitment to closely collaborate with the United States across different domains, aiming for capacity building and further strengthening strategic partnership.
Both ministers explored opportunities to build resilient supply chains and identified areas for co-development of new technologies and co-production of existing and new systems.
Facilitation to enhance cooperation between the defense start-up ecosystems of the two countries was also discussed.
A roadmap for US-India defense industrial cooperation was agreed upon, which will shape their cooperation in the years to come.
They welcomed the recent dialogues focused on Defense Artificial Intelligence and Defense Space.
Regional security issues were also discussed, reflecting their shared interest in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Ministry of Defense including Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defense Secretary Giridhar Armane and DRDO Secretary and Chairman Dr Sameer V Kamat.
India America relations
Historical Background
The establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the United States dates back to 1947.
Both countries share common values of democracy, pluralism and rule of law.
Strategic Partnership
India and the United States have developed a strong strategic partnership based on shared interests and values.
The partnership has seen significant growth in various areas including defence, trade and technology.
Defense and Security Cooperation
Defense cooperation between India and the US has expanded significantly in recent years.
Both countries engage in joint military exercises, defense equipment cooperation and intelligence sharing.
Defense ties have been strengthened by the signing of the US-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI).
Economic and trade relations
Economic relations between India and America have grown steadily.
The US is one of India's largest trading partners and bilateral trade has grown over the years.
Both the countries have signed various agreements to enhance economic cooperation and promote investments.
Technology and Innovation
India and the US cooperate in the fields of science, technology and innovation.
Cooperation has been promoted in areas such as space exploration, clean energy and information technology.
The US has supported India's initiatives like Digital India and Skill India.
3. 1st India-Namibia Joint Commission of Cooperation
Tags: International Relations International News
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently co-chaired the first India-Namibia Joint Commission with Namibian Foreign Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Windhoek.
An overview of the news
In his opening remarks, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the special place Namibia holds in the hearts of Indians.
He emphasized that India supports Namibian independence and expressed happiness at Namibia's rightful place in the international community.
Dr. Jaishankar underlined the strong bond between India and Namibia, which is characterized by developmental cooperation, capacity building programs and political solidarity.
The Joint Commission will assess the progress of India-Namibia relations. In addition, high-level visits and ongoing interactions will strengthen the India-Namibia partnership in the future.
During his visit, the External Affairs Minister inaugurated the India-Namibia Center of Excellence in Information Technology in Windhoek. The center will contribute to research, cyber security and good governance.
About Namibia
Namibia is a country located in southwestern Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
It shares borders with Angola, Zambia, Botswana and South Africa.
The country's diverse geography includes the Namib Desert along the Atlantic coast, the Kalahari Desert to the east, and the central plateau.
Namibia gained independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990, becoming the last African country to gain independence from colonial rule.
Windhoek is the capital and largest city of Namibia.
Namibia is known for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Etosha National Park, located in the north of the country, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos and various bird species.
4. Sarbananda Sonowal flags off maiden International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress in Chennai
Tags: International Relations Defence
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India's first international cruise vessel - MV Empress, from Chennai to Sri Lanka on June 5.
An overview of the news
This is the launch of the International Cruise Tourism Terminal at Chennai built at a cost of Rs 17.21 crore, ushering in a new era of cruise tourism and maritime trade in the country.
On the occasion of Environment Day, Sonowal along with the port officials also planted 2,500 saplings at the port.
The launch of the first cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka has opened a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector in the country.
This is the result of an MoU signed during the Incredible India International Cruise Summit in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/s Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and international cruise services.
International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress
It is a renowned and luxurious cruise ship that operates globally.
It offers passengers a unique and unforgettable experience on the open seas, combining comfort, entertainment, and leisure.
The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation systems and safety features, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all on board.
Its elegant design and modern amenities make it a preferred choice for travelers seeking a premium cruising experience.
5. Nepal's PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal's visit to India
Tags: International Relations International News
In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' made a four-day visit to New Delhi on 31 May.
An overview of the news
Various projects were launched during the visit which included the Kurtha-Bijalpura section of the railway line.
An Indian Railways cargo train was inaugurated from the newly constructed rail link Bathnaha (India) to Nepal Customs Yard under Indian grant.
Integrated Checkposts (ICPs) were inaugurated at Nepalgunj (Nepal) and Rupaidiha (India).
Celebration of ICP in Bhairahawa (Nepal) and Sonauli (India).
Phase-II facilities under Motihari-Amlekhganj petroleum pipeline inaugurated.
Apart from this, another new pipeline will be built from Siliguri to Jhapa in eastern Nepal.
Exchange of MoU/Agreement between the two countries
Treaty of Transit between India and Nepal.
MoU between India and Nepal for cooperation in the field of Petroleum Infrastructure.
MoU between India and Nepal for development of infrastructure at Dodhra Chandani Check Post on Indo-Nepal border.
MoU between NPCIL and NCHL, Nepal for cross border payments.
Project Development Agreement of Lower Arun Hydro Electric Project.
MoU for the development of Phukot-Karnali Hydroelectric Project.
About Nepal
The kingdom of Nepal was established by the Shah dynasty.
It is a landlocked country in South Asia.
Prime Minister - Pushpa Kamal Dahal
President - Ram Chandra Paudel
Capital - Kathmandu
Currency - Nepalese Rupee
6. India, Vietnam hold 3rd Maritime Security Dialogue
Tags: International Relations International News
India and Vietnamese officials held the third Maritime Security Dialogue in New Delhi on 31st May.
An overview of the news
Both sides discussed ways to better maintain the marine environment which is helpful for theinclusive development of both the countries.
Senior officials from ministries and services dealing with maritime affairs participated in the dialogue.
The two sides also reviewed initiatives for maritime cooperation and ways to strengthen international and regional mechanisms for comprehensive maritime security.
The second India-Vietnam Maritime Security Dialogue was to be held in virtual format in April 2021 after the first round was held in Hanoi in March 2019.
India, Vietnam Relation
Vietnam has become an important partner in India’s Act East policy and the Indo-Pacific vision as both countries have disputes with China.
Vietnam is involved in a dispute with China on the South China Sea Island. China claims nearly all of the disputed South China Sea islands, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all claim parts of it. Beijing has built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea.
India favours free and open navigation right in the South China Sea which is threatened by China.
India has oil exploration projects in the Vietnamese waters in the South China Sea. India and Vietnam are boosting their maritime security cooperation in the last few years to protect common interests.
In 2016, during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Vietnam, the bilateral relations were further elevated to a “comprehensive strategic partnership”.
India and Vietnam signed an important Joint Vision Statement on defence partnership during the visit of the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to Vietnam on 8 June 2022.
During the defence minister's visit India provided a $500 million defence loan to Vietnam.
About Vietnam
It lies in South East Asia and it is a member of Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN)
Prime Minister: Pham Minh Chinh
Capital: Hanoi
President: Vo Van Thuong
Currency: Dong
7. India extends $1 billion credit line to Sri Lanka till March 2024
Tags: International Relations International News
India on May 30 extended its $1 billion line of credit to Sri Lanka till March 2024 to help purchase essential food, medicine and other essential commodities as Sri Lanka grapples with an unprecedented economic crisis.
An overview of the news
This agreement is an important step towards continuation of financial assistance provided by the Indian side to the Sri Lankan Government for procurement of essential items.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Sri Lanka's Minister of State for Finance, Shehan Semasinghe, senior officials from Sri Lanka's Ministry of Finance and representatives of the Indian High Commission in Colombo.
The credit line was extended last year when Sri Lanka was passing through its worst economic crisis.
The facility has been instrumental in prompt procurement of critical supplies such as fuel, medicines, food items and industrial raw materials for the island nation.
This extension of financial assistance further underscores the strong commitment of the Government of India as it continues to assist Sri Lanka with a comprehensive package of approximately USD 4 billion in line with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
About sri lanka
The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation located off the southeast coast of the Indian subcontinent.
Sri Lanka is separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Munnar and the Palk Strait.
Capital: Colombo (Executive and Judicial) and Sri Jayawardenepura (Legislative).
Official languages: Sinhala and Tamil
President – Ranil Wickremesinghe
Prime Minister – Dinesh Gunawardena
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee
8. India hands over 20 broad gauge locomotives to Bangladesh
Tags: International Relations International News
Taking a significant step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation in the railway sector, India and Bangladesh handed over 20 broad gauge locomotives to Bangladesh on May 23.
An overview of the news
The initiative is aimed at meeting the growing demand for passenger and freight traffic between the two neighboring countries.
The handover ceremony was conducted virtually, which was attended by Indian Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Bangladesh Railway Minister Nurul Islam Sujan.
During the meeting held in June 2022, fruitful discussions were held on various aspects of railway operations between the two countries.
Minister Nurul Islam Sujan highlighted the importance of strengthening rail connectivity between India and Bangladesh to promote trade and travel.
The newly acquired locomotives will help in meeting the growing demands of passenger and freight traffic on both sides of the border.
Currently, there are nine interchanges between India and Bangladesh, of which five are already operational and two are under construction.
People’s Republic of Bangladesh
Capital: Dhaka
Prime Minister: Sheikh Hasina Wazed
President: Mohammad Shahabuddin
Currency: Taka
9. India and Australia sign agreements in the field of migration, mobility partnership and green hydrogen
Tags: International Relations International News
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged after a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney.
An Overview of the News
Prime Minister Modi invited Prime Minister Albanese and Australian cricket fans to India for the Cricket World Cup.
Prime Minister Albanese announced the establishment of a new Australian Consulate General in Bengaluru to link Australian businesses to India's digital and innovation ecosystem.
About Australia
It is a sovereign country located in the Southern Hemisphere and is geographically isolated from the rest of the world.
Capital - Canberra
Government - Federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Emperor - Charles III
Governor-General - David Hurley
Prime Minister - Anthony Albanese
10. India-US Working Group on Education and Skill Development virtually launched
Tags: International Relations International News
The Ministry of Education, Government of India and US Department of State on 22 May launched the India-US Working Group on Education and Skill Development in virtual mode.
An overview of the news
Its aim is to enhance cooperation and collaboration between the two countries in the field of education and skill development.
Both sides acknowledged the importance of skilling and vocational education in an industry-centric era.
Recognizing the need to align skill training programs with industry requirements, both sides agreed to promote partnerships between educational institutions, industry stakeholders and relevant government agencies.
The collaboration aims to bridge the skill gap, increase employability and promote entrepreneurship in both the countries.
The delegations from both sides expressed their commitment to strengthen cooperation in education and skill development between India and the United States.
The establishment of an India-US Working Group on Education and Skill Development was announced during the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue held between India and the US in Washington DC in April 2022.
Topic of discussion
Skilling and vocational education
Certification and recognition
Matchmaking between U.S. and Indian higher educational institutions
Engaging with the Private Sector
