Category: International / World

Shri Jaideep Mazumdar represented India at the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting, on December 19, 2024, and was hosted by Thailand. Officials reviewed BIMSTEC’s progress since March 2023. They focused on sustainable development, connectivity, security, and cultural exchanges. Key Areas of Discussion The meeting addressed several critical themes. Sustainable development was brought to light as…

Recently, India emerged as the largest purchaser of Russian oil, overtaking China, which coincided with the establishment of the Eastern Maritime Corridor, which has enhanced trade between India and Russia. The new sea route from Chennai to Vladivostok has streamlined the transport of various commodities. New Maritime Route Overview The Chennai-Vladivostok route spans approximately 5,600…

The Phewa Dialogue series commenced recently, marking collaboration between Nepal and China, in Pokhara, a city renowned for its picturesque lake. Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari inaugurated the dialogue, denoting its importance for regional cooperation. Purpose of the Phewa Dialogue The dialogue aims to encourage policies that promote regional prosperity and peace. Participants will discuss…

India and Liberia recently held their inaugural Foreign Office Consultations in Monrovia, aimed to enhance bilateral relations across various sectors. Key officials from both nations participated, encouraging a collaborative environment for discussions. Key Participants Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, co-chaired the meeting. Liberia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti,…

Sri Lanka has introduced a new visa policy effective from January 2025, granting free visa travel to citizens from 39 countries, including India. This announcement was made by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath during an event in New Delhi, and aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and India. Visa Policy Details Starting…

International Migrants Day is observed globally on December 18 each year and aims to raise awareness about the rights of migrants and the challenges they encounter. Recently, the theme has been set by the European Parliament, focusing on honoring migrants’ contributions and respecting their rights. Historical Background International Migrants Day was established by the United…

Moldova has recently become a member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs. This decision reflects Moldova’s commitment to promoting sustainability and renewable energy. The agreement was formalized in New Delhi, where India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi signed the necessary…

The Israeli government has recently approved a settlement expansion plan in the Golan Heights, allocating over $11.13 million for the initiative, following rising tensions in the region, particularly after political shifts in Syria. Background of the Golan Heights The Golan Heights is a strategically important plateau that Israel captured during the 1967 Six-Day War. Israel…

Britain has officially become the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), making the UK the 12th member of this influential trade group. The CPTPP includes various countries such as Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and several others, collectively representing a vast market. Background of CPTPP The CPTPP…

In development for tourism, Indian tourists may soon travel to Russia without a visa, which could commence in spring 2025, following discussions between Russia and India aimed at facilitating easier travel for tourists. Recent Developments in Travel Arrangements In June 2024, officials from Russia and India met to negotiate a visa-free travel deal. This initiative…