International

 

International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

Nicusor Dan Assumes Presidency of Romania After Winning 2025 Election

On 26 May 2025, Nicusor Dan assumed office as the President of Romania after winning the presidential runoff election held on 18 May, where he secured 53.6% of the votes. He defeated George Simion, the leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians, and succeeded interim President Ilie Bolojan.

In his inaugural address, the 55-year-old independent candidate emphasized the importance of reform within the framework of the rule of law, urging citizens to apply positive pressure on institutions and promising to stay receptive to public voices.

According to the Romanian Constitution, presidential elections are held every five years, with a limit of two consecutive terms.
Romania, located in southeastern Europe, is the twelfth-largest country in Europe with a population of approximately 1.9 crore (19 million).

Singapore’s New Cabinet Sworn In After PAP’s Strong Election Win

On 23 May 2025, Singapore’s new Cabinet was sworn in after the People’s Action Party (PAP) achieved a strong victory in the recent general election, winning 87 out of 97 seats and securing 65.57% of the popular vote.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took office in May 2024 following Lee Hsien Loong, emphasized his administration’s commitment to adapting to global change, boosting the economy, and strengthening international relations.

The reshuffled Cabinet includes several Indian-origin leaders in prominent roles:

  • K. Shanmugam remains Minister for Home Affairs and is now also Coordinating Minister for National Security.
  • Vivian Balakrishnan continues as Foreign Minister.
  • Indranee Rajah stays in the Prime Minister’s Office.
  • Murali Pillai has been promoted to Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport.
  • Janil Puthucheary is now Senior Minister of State for Education, Sustainability, and the Environment.

The election results reflect increased public support for the PAP compared to the 2020 elections, where it secured 61.24% of the vote.

UK Returns Chagos Islands to Mauritius; Diego Garcia Base Leased Back for 99 Years

On 22 May 2025, the United Kingdom signed an agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, resolving a long-standing territorial dispute. In return, the UK will lease back the Diego Garcia military base for $136 million per year for at least 99 years, ensuring continued operation of the US-UK base, which is vital for British security and counter-terrorism efforts.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the base’s importance to national safety and intelligence operations. The Chagos Islands, formerly part of British Indian Ocean Territory, were separated from Mauritius in 1965, and inhabitants were forcibly removed for the construction of the US base.

India welcomed the treaty, calling it a milestone in the decolonization of Mauritius and a step towards upholding international law and sovereignty. India reaffirmed its support for Mauritius’s legitimate claim and committed to enhancing maritime security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

Golden Dome Missile Defence Shield Announced by President Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense shield aimed at protecting the United States from long-range missile threats, including those from China and Russia. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome but envisioned on a much larger scale, the Golden Dome will integrate hundreds of satellites to detect, track, and potentially intercept incoming missiles.

General Michael Guetlein of the U.S. Space Force has been appointed to lead this ambitious initiative. The system will complement existing U.S. missile defenses and is expected to be completed by January 2029, though experts question the feasibility of that timeline and cost.

Trump also mentioned that Canada has shown interest in joining the project.

Ukraine and Russia to meet in Istanbul for talks to end war

Ukraine and Russia are nearing direct peace talks for the first time in three years. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet in Istanbul on 15 May 2025. The move follows Moscow’s proposal for direct negotiations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia’s delegation will be in Istanbul, but did not reveal whether Putin will attend, saying the delegation’s names will be announced later.

US President Donald Trump plans to send senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg to observe the talks. Putin proposed the meeting after calls from Ukraine and European nations for a 30-day ceasefire.

Anita Anand Appointed Canada’s Foreign Minister in Mark Carney’s New Cabinet

On 13 May 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced his new cabinet, appointing Anita Anand as Foreign Minister, a key position. Maninder Sidhu was named International Trade Minister, while two others of Indian descent were appointed as Secretaries of State.

One of Anand’s top priorities will be to reset strained ties with India and manage Canada’s relations with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Carney’s new cabinet includes 28 ministers, down from 39 under Justin Trudeau, signaling a leaner team. He instructed the ministers to bring “new ideas, clear focus, and decisive actions” to their roles.

Ruby Sahota, formerly Minister of Democratic Institutions, was demoted to Secretary of State for combating crime. Randeep Sarai will handle international development as a Secretary of State.

This reshuffle gives Carney a chance to leave his mark after leading the Liberal Party to an unexpected victory in last month’s election.

Miss World 2025 Begins in Hyderabad with a Grand Cultural Showcase

The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant began on May 10, 2025, at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad, featuring a grand celebration of Telangana’s cultural heritage. The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, with Miss World Chairperson Julia Morley and reigning Miss World Krystyna Pyszková in attendance.

The opening ceremony featured a catwalk parade with contestants from over 110 countries, each carrying their national flag, and vibrant folk and tribal dances from Telangana. A highlight was the Perini Natyam performance by 250 children.

Delegates entered in continent-based groups, welcomed with traditional music and regional dance forms like Gond, Lambadi, and Oggu Dolu, led by a Kommu Koya band. India’s representative, Nandini Gupta, joined the Asia and Oceania group. The Miss World 2025 finale is scheduled for May 31 in Hyderabad.

International Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2025

The International Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2025 was held at the Changi Exhibition Centre, Singapore, from May 6 to May 8, 2025. As the Asia-Pacific’s premier maritime defence event, it attracted over 56 delegations from more than 35 countries, including naval leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.

Key highlights included 22 warships from 13 nations, cutting-edge naval technology showcases by top defence firms like ELT Group, and the display of EMSO and counter-drone systems.

The Indian Navy participated with INS Kiltan, an indigenously built ASW corvette, emphasizing India’s commitment to regional maritime security.

The event also hosted the 9th International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC), addressing geopolitical risks and maritime threats. IMDEX 2025 played a vital role in strengthening naval cooperation, promoting innovation, and enhancing global maritime security.

Friedrich Merz Elected as Germany’s New Chancellor

Friedrich Merz, the conservative leader, has been elected as the new Chancellor of Germany after securing 325 votes in the second round of voting in the Lower House of Parliament, surpassing the required threshold of 316. In the first round, Merz received only 310 votes, marking a historic setback in post-war German politics.

UNSC Holds Closed-Door Consultations on India-Pakistan Situation

On May 5, 2025, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held closed-door consultations at Pakistan’s request to discuss rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting followed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for restraint and dialogue between the two nations. However, the consultations ended without any formal statement.

During the meeting, Pakistan’s UN envoy, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, raised the Kashmir issue, making allegations against India and rejecting any involvement in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. India criticized Pakistan for misusing the UN platform to spread misinformation and divert attention from terrorism.

Anthony Albanese Wins Second Term as Australia’s Prime Minister

Anthony Albanese has won a historic second term as Prime Minister of Australia, leading the center-left Labor Party to victory in the May 3, 2025 federal election. This is the first time in 21 years that an Australian Prime Minister has secured back-to-back three-year terms.

Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal Party, conceded defeat and even lost his own seat in Queensland’s Dickson to Labor’s Ali France.

Looking ahead, Albanese has pledged to focus on economic recovery, renewable energy, and social policy, promising stability and progress for Australia.

US Signs Economic Partnership with Ukraine for Access to Rare Earth Minerals

On 30 April 2025, the United States announced an economic partnership agreement with Ukraine granting Washington preferential access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for creating a joint Reconstruction Investment Fund.

The fund will receive 50% of profits and royalties from new natural resource permits issued by Ukraine. However, the U.S. will not gain ownership of Ukraine’s mineral wealth or gas infrastructure.

The deal follows months of negotiations and was previously delayed due to a heated exchange between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Trump during a February Oval Office meeting.

Mark Carney Becomes Canadian PM After Liberal Party’s 2025 Election Win

Mark Carney becomes Prime Minister of Canada after the Liberal Party won 169 seats in the 2025 general election, forming a minority government in the 343-member House of Commons. A former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, Carney used his economic background to tackle key issues like U.S. trade tensions and annexation threats.

His campaign revived the Liberals’ standing, focusing on unity and resilience, and is expected to reset foreign relations, especially with India, after strained ties under Justin Trudeau. Domestically, Carney must now address housing, inflation, and minority governance challenges.

UNSC Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Reaffirms Global Stand Against Terrorism

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. The 15-member Council reaffirmed that terrorism is a serious threat to international peace and security.

The UNSC called for the accountability of the perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors, urging all nations to cooperate under international law and Security Council resolutions.

The attack on April 22 sparked outrage across India and abroad. India responded with punitive actions against Pakistan, including the expulsion of military attachés, suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and closure of the Attari post. Pakistan retaliated by shutting its airspace to Indian airlines and suspending trade.

Pakistan Closes Airspace to Indian Airlines Amid Rising Tensions

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan announced on 24 April that it will ban Indian airlines from using its airspace. The restriction applies to India-registered aircraft and those owned or leased by Indian operators.

Air India stated that the ban will lead to rerouted flights to/from North America, UK, Europe, and the Middle East. IndiGo Airlines also confirmed disruptions to some international flights.

A senior Air Traffic Controller mentioned that flight durations will vary depending on alternate routes chosen. Pakistan’s airspace is strategically important and commonly used by Indian airlines, making this restriction significantly impactful.

India Tightens Diplomatic Measures Against Pakistan Post-Pahalgam Attack: Revokes All SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) Visas

On April 23, 2025, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a series of strong diplomatic actions against Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. India has revoked all SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas issued to Pakistani nationals, giving those currently in India 48 hours to leave.

Additionally, India has declared the Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi as Persona Non Grata, requiring them to leave within a week. In a reciprocal move, India will withdraw its own military advisors and five support staff from its High Commission in Islamabad.

By May 1, 2025, the strength of both Indian and Pakistani High Commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 personnel.

PM Modi’s State Visit to Saudi Arabia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on April 22, 2025. The leaders reviewed cooperation across sectors including politics, defence, trade, investment, energy, technology, culture, and people-to-people ties.

To reflect the growing ties, two new ministerial committees were created:

  • Defence Cooperation Committee
  • Tourism and Cultural Cooperation Committee

The SPC will now include four main committees:

  1. Political, Consular and Security Cooperation
  2. Defence Cooperation
  3. Economy, Energy, Investment and Technology
  4. Tourism and Cultural Cooperation

Key MoUs/Agreements Signed:

  • Space cooperation between Indian Department of Space and Saudi Space Agency
  • Health collaboration between the two Health Ministries
  • Anti-doping education agreement between NADA (India) and SAADC (Saudi Arabia)
  • Postal cooperation between India Post and Saudi Post Corporation

Pope Francis Passes Away

Pope Francis passed away on April 20, 2025, marking the end of a historic and transformative papacy. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was the first Jesuit, first Latin American, and first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.

He led the Church with a focus on humility, compassion, social justice, and interfaith dialogue, and was widely respected for his stance on climate change, poverty, and global peace. His papacy left a lasting legacy of inclusiveness and humanity.

The world mourns the loss of a global spiritual leader, and tributes continue to pour in for the man who reshaped the role of the modern papacy.

US Vice President J D Vance Begins First Official Visit to India

Vice President of the United States, J D Vance, arrived in New Delhi on April 21, 2025, for a four-day official visit. He is accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, their children, and senior U.S. officials. This is his first visit to India, and he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening India-U.S. ties.

The delegation will also visit Jaipur and Agra, in addition to holding engagements in Delhi. The visit will focus on reviewing progress in bilateral relations, particularly the outcomes of the India-U.S. Joint Statement from February 13, 2025. Both sides will also exchange views on regional and global issues.

India and the U.S. share a comprehensive global strategic partnership, based on shared democratic values, mutual interests, and strong people-to-people connections. Regular high-level dialogue remains key to this growing relationship.

Daniel Noboa Re-elected as Ecuador’s President for second four-year term

Daniel Noboa, the incumbent President of Ecuador, has won a second four-year term by securing 55.85% of the vote against his left-wing opponent, Luisa González. The 37-year-old right-wing leader described his re-election as historic and pledged to continue his administration’s war on drugs.

Ecuador faces one of the highest homicide rates in South America. While President Noboa has achieved some reduction in crime, his military presence on the streets and the construction of high-security prisons have also led to a rise in violence, highlighting the complex challenges of his anti-drug campaign.

AIKEYME 2025 Begins in Tanzania: Indian Navy Joins African Nations for Maritime Drill

Africa India Key Maritime Engagement (AIKEYME), a multilateral maritime exercise, began on 13 April 2025 in Tanzania and will conclude on 18 April 2025. The exercise focuses on collaborative solutions to regional maritime challenges.

Participating countries include Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and India. The Indian Navy is represented by INS Chennai, INS Kesari (a Landing Ship Tank), and INS Sunayna.

The harbour phase features an inauguration ceremony and deck reception, while the sea phase (16–18 April) emphasizes strengthening maritime security cooperation.

Trump Pauses Global Tariffs for 90 Days, Excludes China

On April 9, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for all countries except China, surprising many after days of strong rhetoric. Trump cited non-retaliation from over 75 countries as the reason for the pause, and during this period, a reduced 10% reciprocal tariff will apply. However, tariffs on China were hiked to 125%, reflecting ongoing tensions.

The pause came amid internal concerns, particularly from the US Treasury Department, about a selloff in the bond market and fears of a global recession. Trump admitted the decision was emotionally driven, claiming it was “written from the heart.”

The move caused a massive stock market rally in the US:

  • Dow Jones surged nearly 2,500 points
  • Nasdaq jumped 12.2%, its best day in 24 years
  • S&P 500 rose by 6%
  • Oil prices and the US dollar also strengthened

Impact on India:

India had been hit by a 26% reciprocal tariff, but the 90-day pause is expected to provide relief. The Indian government, through ongoing negotiations with the US, is working toward a mutually beneficial trade agreement, said MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

Bangladesh Assumes BIMSTEC Chairmanship for 2025–2027

On April 4, 2025, Bangladesh assumed the Chairmanship of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) for the next two years, during the BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok. The Chairmanship was handed over by the Prime Minister of Thailand to Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s Interim Government, Muhammad Yunus.

In his acceptance, Yunus emphasized the need for an inclusive and action-oriented BIMSTEC, reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to regional cooperation and development.

BIMSTEC consists of seven member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Shirley Botchwey Becomes First African Woman to assume office as Commonwealth Secretary-General

Shirley Botchwey assumed office as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 1, 2025, becoming the first African woman to hold the position. With 20 years of leadership experience in diplomacy, international relations, governance, and public service, she previously served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration from 2017 to 2024 and was a member of Ghana’s National Security Council.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, nominated by Commonwealth leaders, serves a maximum of two four-year terms and is responsible for upholding Commonwealth values, representing the organization, and managing the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Operation Brahma: India’s Aid to Quake-Hit Myanmar

India has launched Operation Brahma, a massive humanitarian mission to assist Myanmar after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the country and neighboring Thailand on March 28, 2025. The earthquake, one of the strongest in over a century, caused widespread destruction, claiming over 1,600 lives and injuring thousands.

Under Operation Brahma, India swiftly mobilized its armed forces, deploying five military aircraft and naval ships to deliver relief materials, medical equipment, and rescue teams. The Indian Air Force transported an 80-member National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team and a 118-member Army field hospital unit, equipped with specialized medical and rescue tools. Additionally, naval ships carried 40 tonnes of humanitarian aid, including food, medicines, and emergency supplies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed solidarity with Myanmar, emphasizing India’s commitment as a “close friend and neighbor” during this crisis. The operation reflects India’s policy of being the first responder in the region, showcasing its dedication to humanitarian assistance.

India’s efforts are focused on providing immediate relief and supporting recovery in the worst-hit areas, such as Mandalay. The operation highlights India’s preparedness and compassion in responding to natural disasters.

Trump and Putin Discuss Ukraine Ceasefire in Key Phone Call

On March 18, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a crucial phone call to address the ongoing Ukraine war. The discussion aimed to convince Moscow to agree to a 30-day ceasefire and explore pathways toward a permanent peace deal.

Key Highlights:

  • The call began at 10 a.m. ET (1400 GMT) and was described as “going well” by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino.
  • Ukraine has already agreed to the U.S.-proposed ceasefire, marking a potential turning point in Europe’s largest conflict since World War II.
  • Russian President Putin expressed conditional support for the truce but emphasized the need to address several key issues before halting military operations.
  • President Trump also hinted at a longer-term peace plan, which could involve territorial concessions by Kyiv and discussions over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Broader Implications:

  • The Kremlin highlighted a “certain understanding” between the two leaders, building on their previous phone call on February 12, 2025, and subsequent high-level contacts.
  • Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s special envoy, praised the leadership of Trump and Putin, stating that their efforts have made the world a safer place.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard’s Visit to India

From March 16 to March 18, 2025, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard visited India, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.

Key highlights of the visit:

  • March 16, 2025: Gabbard arrived in New Delhi and held discussions with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, focusing on intelligence-sharing, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism strategies.
  • March 17, 2025: Gabbard met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to explore ways to bolster defense and security ties. Later, she had a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where they exchanged symbolic gifts—Gangajal and a Tulsi Mala—emphasizing cultural and diplomatic goodwill.
  • March 18, 2025: Gabbard participated in the Raisina Dialogue, delivering a keynote address on global security challenges and the importance of India-US collaboration.

This visit underscored:

  • Strengthening intelligence cooperation and defense relations.
  • Addressing emerging threats in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
  • Enhancing the India-US strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon’s India Visit

From March 16 to March 20, 2025, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon embarked on a significant five-day visit to India, marking a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Key highlights of the visit:

  • March 17, 2025: PM Luxon held wide-ranging discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, focusing on trade, economic ties, and regional security. He also attended the inaugural session of the prestigious Raisina Dialogue as the chief guest.
  • March 19-20, 2025: Luxon visited Mumbai, where he engaged with business leaders and promoted trade and investment opportunities.

This visit emphasized:

  • Launching negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
  • Facilitating the mobility of professionals and skilled workers.
  • Strengthening collaboration in defense, education, and disaster resilience.
  • Addressing shared concerns about China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Pakistan train hijacked: Hostages rescued, 20 Soldiers and 16 militants killed

Armed militants hijacked a passenger train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on March 11, 2025. The attackers, identified as members of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), blew up the railway track, forcing the train to stop in a remote area. They then boarded the train and took control, separating men from women.

The Pakistani security forces launched an operation, rescuing more than 100 passengers while killing 16 militants. However, the exchange of heavy gunfire resulted in the deaths of at least 20 soldiers. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack, continuing its insurgency against the Pakistani state.

Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but poorest province, has long been home to separatist movements. Militants claim that the region’s natural resources are exploited by outsiders, leaving little benefit for locals.

Mark Carney to Become Canada’s New Prime Minister

Mark Carney has been elected as the new leader of Canada’s Liberal Party and will soon be sworn in as Prime Minister, replacing Justin Trudeau, who resigned in January.

Carney, 59, previously served as Governor of the Bank of Canada and later made history in 2013 as the first non-citizen to lead the Bank of England. His leadership comes at a crucial time, as Canada faces trade tensions and annexation threats from US President Donald Trump. In his acceptance speech, Carney warned of “dark days” and pledged to maintain retaliatory tariffs on US goods until mutual respect is restored.

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