International

 

International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

Afghanistan and Pakistan Agree to Ceasefire After Deadly Border Clashes

Afghanistan and Pakistan reached an immediate ceasefire on October 18, 2025, after a week of deadly border clashes that left dozens dead and hundreds injured. The truce was brokered in Doha with mediation by Qatar and Turkiye, marking a key step toward easing tensions along the 2,600 km border.

The agreement calls for:

  • Immediate end to hostilities
  • Monitoring mechanisms for compliance
  • Follow-up peace talks for lasting stability

The conflict began on October 11, 2025, when Pakistan launched airstrikes in Kabul and Paktika, blaming Afghan-based groups for cross-border attacks—claims denied by Afghanistan.

India Post Resumes All International Postal Services to the U.S. from October 15, 2025

India Post announced that all international postal services to the U.S. will resume from October 15, 2025. The services were suspended since August 2025 due to new U.S. Customs (CBP) rules.

A new Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) system now allows customs duties to be collected in India before dispatch, ensuring smooth delivery in the U.S. without extra fees. A flat 50% customs duty applies on the declared value.

Postal rates remain unchanged, benefiting MSMEs, artisans, and small exporters. Services like EMS, Air Parcels, Registered and Tracked Packets to the U.S. can now be booked at Post Offices, IBCs, DNKs, or indiapost.gov.in.

Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa on a four-day state visit to India (October 13–16, 2025)

Mongolian President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa is on a four-day state visit to India (October 13–16, 2025) — his first as Head of State — marking the 70th anniversary of India-Mongolia diplomatic ties.

The visit highlights the growing strategic partnership between the two democracies, focusing on energy, mining, defense, education, and cultural cooperation. High-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu aim to strengthen bilateral relations through new MoUs and discussions on regional security and connectivity.

The visit also underscores the “Third Neighbor” policy of Mongolia and India’s engagement with Central Asia, reinforcing shared values of democracy, peace, and development.

United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave in New Delhi (14–16 October 2025)

The Indian Army will host the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave in New Delhi from 14–16 October 2025, bringing together senior military leaders from 32 nations engaged in UN peacekeeping operations.

The conclave will provide a platform to discuss operational challenges, interoperability, inclusivity, evolving threats, and the role of technology and training in strengthening global peacekeeping. As one of the largest contributors to UN missions, India aims to promote cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and a shared vision for future UN peacekeeping strategies.

Participating nations include Australia, Bangladesh, France, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and several others from Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. The conclave reaffirms India’s commitment to global peace, stability, and cooperation.

Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi’s Visit to India (9–16 October 2025)

Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi visited India from 9 to 16 October 2025, marking the first Taliban ministerial visit to India since 2021. His week-long trip included stops in New Delhi, Deoband, and Agra, symbolizing a blend of diplomatic, religious, and cultural outreach.

Muttaqi held talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval on regional security, counterterrorism, and humanitarian cooperation. His visit to Darul Uloom Deoband represented a gesture of religious solidarity, while his tour of the Taj Mahal in Agra served as an act of cultural diplomacy.

India Upgrades Technical Mission in Kabul to Full Embassy

India will upgrade its Technical Mission in Kabul to a full Embassy, signaling full diplomatic re-engagement with Afghanistan. Announcing this on 10 October 2025, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty, stability, and development.

India pledged continued development aid, including 20 ambulances, medical equipment, vaccines, food supplies, and help in rebuilding earthquake-hit and refugee housing. Six new projects will also be launched.

Jaishankar said India will resume work on infrastructure, water management, and mining cooperation, and expand educational and sports exchanges, especially in cricket. He also stressed joint efforts against cross-border terrorism.

Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is visiting India after the UN temporarily lifted his travel ban to allow diplomatic talks.

Israel and Hamas Sign First Phase of Peace Plan

On 9 October 2025, Israel and Hamas signed the first phase of a landmark peace agreement aimed at ending a two-year war that has devastated Gaza and strained regional stability. The deal, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States, includes:

  • Release of 20 Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners
  • Israeli troop withdrawal to a designated line within Gaza
  • Humanitarian aid: 400 trucks per day allowed into Gaza for the first five days
  • Framework for future negotiations on governance, disarmament, and reconstruction

The agreement was signed in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, and hailed by leaders as a breakthrough. While critical issues remain unresolved, the deal marks a hopeful step toward lasting peace in the region.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s India Visit 2025 – A New Era of India–UK Partnership

From October 8–9, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer made his first official visit to India, marking a significant step forward in India–UK bilateral relations. The visit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership under the Vision 2035 Roadmap, covering areas such as trade, defence, climate, energy, education, and innovation.

Starmer led the UK’s largest-ever trade delegation of over 100 leaders, promoting the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which aims to remove tariffs on 90% of goods and boost trade by £25.5 billion annually. Both leaders also launched the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) to collaborate on AI, quantum computing, biotech, and critical minerals.

US 20-Point Peace Plan for Gaza

The US Peace Plan for Gaza, proposed by President Donald Trump in September 2025, aims to end the Israel-Hamas conflict through a 20-point framework.

Key provisions include an immediate ceasefire, hostage exchange, Gaza’s demilitarization, and governance by a technocratic Palestinian committee under international oversight.

Hamas is excluded from future rule, and reconstruction—estimated at $200 billion—will involve global partners like India. An international peacekeeping force will ensure security. Hamas has 3–4 days to accept; rejection may trigger full US support for Israeli military action.

High-level Debate of 80th Session of UN General Assembly

The High-Level Debate of the 80th UNGA session began on 23 Sept 2025 in New York.

Theme: “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights”.

Focus Issues: Ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, and increasing Western recognition of Palestinian statehood.

India’s Representation: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Speaking Order:

  • Brazil opened the debate (tradition).
  • United States followed as host nation, with President Trump delivering the keynote.
  • Palestine’s Mahmoud Abbas addressed via video conference.
  • Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu to speak on Friday.
  • Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky to take part in debate & bilateral talks.
  • Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa addressed the Assembly — first Syrian head of state to do so since 1967.

UK, Canada, and Australia Recognize State of Palestine

On 21 September 2025, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia formally recognized the State of Palestine, marking a historic diplomatic shift. Canada became the first G7 nation to do so, followed by the UK and Australia.

Leaders emphasized the move as a step toward reviving hope for a two-state solution, strengthening peaceful Palestinian leadership, and promoting stability in the Middle East. France, Belgium, and other nations are also expected to follow during the upcoming UN General Assembly.

H-1B Visa Fee Hike: $100,000 for New Petitions

On September 20, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation introducing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa petitions filed from outside the United States.

Key Points

  • Effective from: September 21, 2025, 12:01 AM EDT.
  • Applies to: Only new H-1B petitions from outside the U.S.
  • Exemptions: Existing holders, renewals, and cases deemed in national interest.
  • Rationale: To curb system abuse and attract only “extraordinary talent.”

Impact

  • Employers: Sharp rise in costs → shift toward local hiring.
  • Workers: Entry barrier for junior/mid-level professionals; travel concerns for dependents.
  • Indian IT firms: Nasscom warns of disruption; firms may accelerate local recruitment.

Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal’s First Woman Prime Minister

Historic Appointment: Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister on 12 Sept 2025, becoming the first woman to hold the post. President Ramchandra Paudel administered the oath at Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu.

She replaces KP Sharma Oli, who resigned amid Gen Z-led protests against corruption and poor governance. Karki was chosen through a youth-driven online vote on Discord, gaining support from both activists and political parties.

Mauritius PM’s India Visit (Sept 9–16, 2025)

Mauritius PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam paid an eight-day state visit to India (Sept 9–16, 2025), his first overseas bilateral engagement.

  • Talks with PM Modi in Varanasi: Focus on MAHASAGAR Vision & Neighbourhood First Policy.
  • Agreements: MoUs in science & tech, oceanography, power; plans for a space research station and floating solar project.
  • Economic Package: India pledged support for infrastructure, healthcare, and jobs in Mauritius.
  • Cultural Roots: Visits to Ayodhya, Tirupati, Varanasi; reconnected with ancestral village in Bihar.
  • Significance: Strengthened ties, diaspora bonds, and cooperation in the Indian Ocean & Global South.

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli Resigns Amid Violent Gen Z Protests

On 9 Sept 2025, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned after violent Gen Z–led protests over the government’s social media ban. Demonstrators stormed his office, set his Balkot residence on fire, and attacked the homes of several leaders, including ministers Prithvi Subba Gurung and Bishnu Paudel.

Despite curfews in Kathmandu Valley and other districts, youths continued protests by burning tyres, blocking roads, and clashing with police. Violence also spread to Rautahat district, where protesters torched a police vehicle. Authorities restricted movement but allowed essential services during the unrest.

Nepal Withdraws Social Media Ban After Deadly Protests

On 8 Sept 2025, the Nepal government withdrew its decision to ban 26 social media platforms, including Facebook and X, after massive youth-led protests turned violent, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 300 injured. Minister for Communication and Information Prithvi Subba Gurung announced the rollback after an emergency Cabinet meeting, saying agencies had been ordered to resume social media services as demanded by ‘Gen Z’ protesters in Kathmandu. The demonstrations had escalated after some protesters stormed the Parliament complex, forcing police to use water cannons, tear gas, and even live rounds.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli promised an investigation into the deadly crackdown, announcing relief for victims’ families and free treatment for the injured. Curfews had earlier been imposed in several major cities to contain unrest. Meanwhile, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned on moral grounds amid widespread criticism over the handling of what is being called one of Nepal’s deadliest protests in recent years.

Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba Resigns

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, 68, announced his resignation after just 11 months in office, citing responsibility for the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) electoral defeats.

The resignation follows the LDP-Komeito coalition’s loss of majority in Upper House elections. An emergency LDP leadership contest will now take place, with contenders including Sanae Takaichi (a critic of BoJ’s rate hikes) and Shinjiro Koizumi (Farm Minister and rising political figure).

Singapore PM Lawrence Wong’s visit to India (September 2–4, 2025)

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong paid a three-day official visit to India (September 2–4, 2025), marking his first trip as PM and celebrating 60 years of India–Singapore diplomatic relations.

He held talks with PM Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and key Indian ministers on strengthening cooperation in digital innovation, fintech, green energy, advanced manufacturing, skill development, healthcare, and education.

India–US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 in Alaska from 1–14 September 2025

The 21st edition of the India–US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 is being held from 1–14 September 2025 at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. The Indian Army’s Madras Regiment is participating alongside the US 5th Infantry Regiment (Arctic Wolves Brigade, 11th Airborne Division).

Over two weeks, both sides will practice heliborne operations, mountain warfare, UAS/Counter-UAS tactics, artillery, aviation, and electronic warfare. Experts will also conduct sessions on information warfare, communications, and logistics. The exercise will conclude with joint tactical manoeuvres, live-fire drills, and high-altitude warfare training, focusing on UN peacekeeping operations and enhancing readiness for multi-domain challenges.

SCO Summit 2025 – Tianjin, China

25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin from 31 Aug – 1 Sep 2025, the largest in history with leaders from 20+ countries and 10 international organizations.

🔹 Key Highlights

  • PM Narendra Modi attends; speaks at plenary session on India’s regional vision.
  • Modi–Xi Jinping talks: focus on border issues, trade, and connectivity.
  • Meeting with Vladimir Putin amid global tensions and trade disputes.
  • Main focus: regional security, economic frameworks, Global South’s voice.
  • China (rotating chair) hosted 100+ events before summit, driving reform & innovation.

Members

  • 10 full members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran (2023), Belarus (2024).
  • Also has observer states (e.g., Afghanistan, Mongolia) and dialogue partners (e.g., Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia).

India-Japan Sign Pact on Critical Minerals During PM Modi’s Tokyo Visit

On 29 August 2025, India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to strengthen collaboration in the critical minerals and mining sector during PM Modi’s visit to Tokyo for the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. The pact, signed between India’s Ministry of Mines and Japan’s METI, focuses on building resilient supply chains, joint mineral projects, sustainable deep-sea mining, stockpiling strategies, and investments in India and third countries.

PM Modi and Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba also set a target of 10 trillion yen Japanese investment in India over 10 years, emphasizing cooperation in SMEs, start-ups, and eight pillars: investment, innovation, economic security, environment, technology, health, mobility, people-to-people exchanges, and state-prefecture ties. ISRO and JAXA to collaborate on Chandrayaan-5 under LUPEX programme.

Dinesh K Patnaik, appointed as new High Commissioner to Canada

India has appointed Dinesh K. Patnaik (IFS, 1990 batch), currently Ambassador to Spain, as the next High Commissioner to Canada.

Canada has named veteran diplomat Christopher Cooter as its new High Commissioner to India.

These appointments mark a step toward restoring diplomatic ties strained in October 2024 when India recalled High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma after tensions with then-PM Justin Trudeau.

Relations began improving after Mark Carney became Canadian PM, leading to a positive Modi–Carney bilateral meeting at the G7 Outreach Summit (June 18, 2025).

Both sides agreed to reinstate High Commissioners as the first step in normalizing ties.

India–China to Resume Direct Flights

On 19 August 2025, India and China agreed to resume direct flight connectivity between the Chinese mainland and India and to finalise an updated Air Services Agreement.

The decision came after talks in New Delhi between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Direct flights, suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic and earlier tensions after the Doklam standoff and 2020 Galwan Valley clash, will now be restored.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s India Visit (August 18–19, 2025)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Indi from August 18–19, 2025. First visit by Wang Yi since Galwan Valley clashes (2020) and LAC disengagement (2024).

  • Meetings with EAM S. Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, and PM Modi.
  • SR-level boundary talks (24th round) with Ajit Doval on LAC peace.
  • China pledged support in fertilisers, rare earths, and tunnel boring machines.
  • Visit precedes PM Modi’s likely trip to SCO Summit, Tianjin (China).
  • Symbolic goodwill: resumption of Indian pilgrimages to Mount Kailash (Gang Renpoche) & Lake Manasarovar (Mapam Yun Tso).

Trump–Putin Alaska Summit Ends Without Deal on Ukraine Conflict

The high-stakes summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Anchorage, Alaska lasted nearly three hours but ended without a deal on the Ukraine–Russia conflict.

  • Putin called the war a tragedy, stressed removing the primary causes, and suggested the next meeting in Moscow. He also claimed the conflict would not have happened if Trump were president in 2022.
  • Trump termed the talks “extremely productive”, saying many points were agreed but “no deal until there’s a deal.” He added he would consult NATO allies and Ukraine’s Zelensky.

Australia to Recognize Palestinian State at UNGA September 2025

Australian PM Anthony Albanese announced that Australia will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th UN General Assembly, joining nations like France, Britain, and Canada in supporting a two-state solution. Nearly 150 UN member states already recognize Palestine.

The move comes amid public pressure and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Recognition is conditional on no Hamas role, Gaza demilitarization, and holding general elections. Albanese said the step is a practical contribution toward peace, coordinated with leaders from Britain, France, New Zealand, and Japan.

Trump–Putin Alaska Meeting on August 15 in Alaska

US President Donald Trump announced he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15 to discuss efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

This will be their first in-person meeting since Trump’s return to the White House in January, and Putin’s first US visit in a decade.
The announcement followed Trump’s unveiling of a peace framework between Armenia and Azerbaijan, part of his push to resolve multiple global conflicts.

US Slaps Extra 25% Tariff on Indian Imports Over Russian Oil, Total Now 50%

On August 6, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, raising the total tariff to 50%. The move was in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which the US claims violates its foreign policy and national security interests.

India condemned the action as “unfair and unreasonable”, defending its energy security strategy. The Ministry of External Affairs warned of taking necessary countermeasures.

📉 Experts predict a 40–50% drop in Indian exports to the US, with sectors like textiles, pharma, and auto parts likely to suffer.

The tariff will take effect from August 27, 2025. India may explore WTO dispute resolution, diplomatic talks, or retaliatory tariffs, potentially reshaping India-US trade relations.

Philippines President Marcos Jr. on 5-Day State Visit to India from 4 August 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines will arrive in New Delhi on 4 August 2025 for his first State Visit to India, accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and a high-level delegation.

During the visit, he will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, meet President Droupadi Murmu, and be called upon by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. President Marcos will also visit Bengaluru.

This visit marks the 75th anniversary of India-Philippines diplomatic ties and aims to boost cooperation in areas such as trade, defence, maritime security, healthcare, and digital technologies under India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

Myanmar Forms New Government After Ending Emergency Rule

On 31 July 2025, Myanmar’s National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) announced a new Union Government, appointing U Nyo Saw as Prime Minister and Senior General Min Aung Hlaing as head of the State Security and Peace Commission.

  • The state of emergency, in place since the 2021 military coup, was terminated.
  • General elections are planned within six months, by December 2025.
  • Opposition groups plan to boycott the elections, calling them undemocratic.
  • A new law criminalizes election disruption, with penalties of up to 10 years in prison.
  • Despite stepping down as PM, Min Aung Hlaing retains key powers as acting president and military chief.
  • Myanmar is also pushing its Digital Economy Roadmap 2030, aiming to grow GDP through tech development.
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