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Subject: International Relations

  • 2024: Celebrating the International Year of Camelids

    camelids

    Central Idea

    • The United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids. This declaration aims to highlight the crucial role of Camelids in the lives of people globally.

    About Camelids

    • FAO’s Statement: According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Camelids significantly impact millions of households in over 90 countries.
    • Species Included: Camelids encompass alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas.
    • Role in Food Security and Economy: These animals contribute to food security, nutrition, and economic growth, particularly benefiting Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

    Importance of Camelids

    • Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals: Camelids play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.
    • Source of Nutrition: They provide milk and meat, essential in combating hunger.
    • Fibre Production: Camelids produce fibre used for clothing and shelter.
    • Transportation and Agriculture: They serve as a means of transportation and produce organic fertilizer for agriculture.
    • Adaptability: Known for their ability to survive in harsh conditions, Camelids are significant in regions like the Andes and arid lands of Africa and Asia.
    • Climate Change Awareness: Camelids symbolize resilience and can help raise awareness about climate change.

    Goals of the International Year of Camelids 2024

    • Awareness and Investment: The year aims to increase awareness of Camelids’ untapped potential and advocate for more investment in this sector.
    • Advocacy for Research and Innovation: The initiative calls for enhanced research, capacity development, and the adoption of innovative practices and technologies in the Camelids sector.

  • Gelephu Mega-City Project

    Gelephu

    Central Idea

    • The Gelephu “mindfulness” mega-city project, announced by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, is set to be a pivotal task for Bhutan’s future PM.
    • This Special Administrative Region (SAR) project in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) aims to address economic challenges and reverse youth migration trends.

    About Gelephu Project

    Details
    Location Gelephu, Sarpang district, Bhutan, near the border with Assam, India.
    Announcement Made by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during the 116th National Day address at Changlimathang Stadium, Thimphu on December 17.
    Project Vision Envisioned as an “economic corridor” connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia via India’s northeastern states to countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.
    Area and Structure The project will cover an area of 1,000 sq km (250,000 acres) and will be developed as a Special Administrative Region (SAR).
    Economic and Social Goals Aims to be an economic and social hub on Bhutan’s southern border, designed to benefit the entire South Asian region and address youth migration by providing local employment and skilling opportunities.
    Infrastructure Development – Plans for Bhutan’s second international airport capable of landing larger planes than Paro Airport.

    – Proposed rail link between Kokrajhar in Assam, India, and Gelephu, Bhutan.

    – Enhanced road connectivity for trade and connectivity with Southeast Asian countries.
    Environmental and Cultural Focus Emphasizes environmental sustainability and cultural sensitivity.

    Aims to attract ‘quality investment’ from internationally screened companies that align with Bhutanese values.
    Energy Focus on renewable energy sources, aligning with Bhutan’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
    International Collaboration Engagements with prominent Indian industrialists and companies for potential collaboration and investment.
    Geopolitical Significance Strategic initiative for regional integration, enhancing Bhutan’s connectivity with South and Southeast Asia.
    Advanced Safety Features Expected to incorporate advanced safety and environmental features, including a passive decay heat removal system.

  • From ‘rule taker’ to ‘rule shaper’, the evolution of India in international negotiations

    The 'Tech' Moment in India's Foreign Policy – South Asian Voices

    Central idea 

    The article underscores the overlooked role of foreign policy and diplomacy in contemporary discussions on India’s trade policy. It highlights the evolving diplomatic strategies and negotiations, particularly in the context of the multilateral trading system, emphasizing India’s transformation from a “rule-taker” to a “rule-shaper” on the global stage. The successful handling of the G20 Summit is presented as evidence of India’s progressing transition from a balancing power to a leading power.

    Key Highlights:

    • India’s Rising Prominence: The article highlights India’s growing influence on the global stage, especially evident at COP26 with Prime Minister Modi’s strategic initiatives for low-carbon development.
    • Neglected Discourse: The author emphasizes the overlooked aspect of foreign policy and diplomacy in contemporary discussions on trade policy in India.

    Key Challenges:

    • Trade Policy Oversight: The neglect of understanding the multilateral trading system’s workings despite India’s significant trade-to-GDP ratio.
    • Complex Negotiations: The challenge of formulating a negotiating position that aligns with the multitude of stakeholders in India.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Integrated Framework: The theoretical model introduced by Ambassador Mohan Kumar to analyze India’s negotiating briefs and diplomatic motivations.
    • GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade): A reference to the foundational international treaty for trade negotiation and the precursor to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
    • Plurilateral Negotiations: Negotiations involving a subgroup of WTO members, not necessarily the entire membership.

    Key Quotes/Anecdotes:

    • “Poverty Veto”: Exploring the term used to describe India’s defensive posturing in international trade negotiations to protect domestic interests.
    • India’s Diplomatic Deftness: Showcasing India’s diplomatic skills in navigating the Ukraine-Russia conflict and evacuating its citizens.

    Key Statements:

    • India’s Diplomatic Evolution: Describing India’s shift from being a “rule-taker” to a “rule-shaper” in international negotiations, emphasizing its growing role in shaping global rules.
    • G20 Summit Success: The G20 Summit’s success as proof of India’s transformation from a balancing power to a leading power.

    Key Examples and References:

    • COP26 Initiatives: Prime Minister Modi’s Panchamrit Action Plan and long-term strategy at COP26 as examples of India’s innovative approaches to global challenges.
    • Ukraine-Russia Conflict: India’s strategic independence and moral position during the conflict, showcasing diplomatic effectiveness.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Trade-to-GDP Ratio: India’s overall trade-to-GDP ratio at 50% in the last decade, underscoring the significance of trade in the economy.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Neglected Aspect: Criticizing the lack of attention given to foreign policy and diplomacy in discussions related to trade policy in India.
    • Balancing Act: Examining how India balances geopolitical pressures and domestic constraints to advance its national interests in international trade negotiations.

    Way Forward:

    • Reviving Multilateral Trading System: The anticipation of a revival of the multilateral trading system, anchored in the WTO, to pursue a development-based trade agenda.
    • Policy Adjustments: Considering a more circumspect approach to trade negotiations to balance the risks and rewards, especially in the context of preferential trading systems.

  • Why only 5 countries have Veto Power in UNSC?

    Central Idea

    • A recent UN resolution vote, where 153 countries voted in favor and 10 against, including the USA’s support for Israel, underscores the influence of a few nations in global decisions.
    • This voting pattern brings into focus the veto powers within the UN Security Council (UNSC) and their persistence for over seven decades.

    What is the Veto Power in the UNSC?

    • Exclusive Membership: The UNSC comprises five permanent members (P5) – the USA, UK, France, Russia, and China – along with 10 non-permanent members.
    • Power of Resolutions: Unlike the General Assembly, resolutions passed by the UNSC are legally binding.
    • Veto Mechanism: Any P5 member can veto a resolution, blocking its adoption even with the required majority support.

    Rationale behind Veto Power for Permanent Members

    • Post-WWII Context: The P5, instrumental in forming the UN after World War II, were granted special rights, including veto power, as recognition of their role.
    • Strategic Necessity: The veto was considered vital to ensure the participation of these major powers in global peacekeeping efforts.

    Formation and Evolution of the UN and Veto Power

    • Foundational Discussions: The structure of veto power was developed during key meetings like the Dumbarton Oaks and Yalta Conferences.
    • FDR’s Influence: President Franklin D. Roosevelt envisioned the UN as a post-war peacekeeping body, with the ‘Four Policemen’ (USA, USSR, UK, and China) at its core.
    • USA’s Diplomatic Efforts: The United States employed strategies, including intelligence, to secure veto power in the UN Charter.

    Debate and Criticism of the Veto Power

    • Global Dissatisfaction: The exclusive nature of veto power has been a point of contention for many countries.
    • Resistance to Change: Attempts to expand the P5 or modify veto rights have been largely unsuccessful due to the vested interests of the permanent members.
    • Acknowledging Changes: The increase in non-permanent UNSC members in 1965 was a nod to the changing international environment.
    • Reforms agenda: Proposals include making all 15 seats temporary with five-year terms, encouraging open competition for seats, and imposing lobbying and term limits.

    Conclusion

    • Continued Discussions: The use of veto power in the UNSC remains a contentious issue, reflecting the complex nature of global politics.
    • Adapting to Modern Times: As the world’s political landscape evolves, there may be growing pressure to reform the UNSC’s structure and veto mechanism to better align with the current global order.

  • Maldives decides to end Hydrographic Survey Pact with India

    Hydrographic Survey

    Central Idea

    • The Maldives government has chosen not to renew a hydrographic survey agreement with India, marking a significant change in bilateral relations.

    Hydrographic Survey Pact: A Backgrounder

    • Nature of Hydrographic Surveys: These surveys involve mapping water bodies to facilitate safe and efficient maritime transportation.
    • 2019 Agreement: During Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to the Maldives in June 2019, an MoU was signed for cooperation in hydrography between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

    Activities under the Pact

    • Joint Hydrographic Surveys: Three joint surveys were conducted in 2021, 2022, and 2023, involving Indian Naval Ships like INS Darshak and INS Sutlej.
    • Survey Objectives: The surveys aimed to update navigational charts and support sectors like tourism and fisheries. They also involved tidal observations and identifying new shoals.
    • Support to MNDF: India provided hydrographic equipment and training to MNDF personnel, aligning with its policy of supporting the Maldives in establishing hydrographic capabilities.

    India’s Hydrographic Survey Agreements with Other Countries

    • Global Hydrographic Efforts: India has conducted hydrographic surveys in various countries, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
    • International Cooperation: The National Hydrographic Office highlights the potential for international cooperation in hydrography, especially in regions with limited capabilities.

    Reasons behind Maldives’ Decision   

    • Regime Change: The election of Mohamed Muizzu of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), seen as more pro-China, contrasts with his predecessor President Solih’s India-friendly stance.
    • Geopolitical Dynamics: China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean region, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has impacted India’s traditional sphere of influence in the Maldives.
    • ‘India Out’ Campaign: Allegations of Indian military presence and the new administration’s emphasis on national security and self-reliance in hydrographic capabilities have influenced this decision.

    Possible outcomes

    • Changing Geopolitical Landscape: The Maldives’ decision reflects the shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean, with growing Chinese influence challenging India’s traditional role.
    • Impact on India-Maldives Relations: This development could signify a recalibration of the Maldives’ foreign policy, potentially impacting India’s strategic interests in the region.

  • Iran announces Visa-free Travel for Indian Citizens

    Central Idea

    • Iran has announced the removal of visa requirements for Indian citizens and nationals from 32 other countries.
    • The decision is aimed at increasing tourism and improving global perceptions of Iran.

    Iran’s Visa-Free Travel Initiative

    • Countries Included: The list includes Russia, UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, several Central Asian and African countries, Japan, Singapore, Southeast Asian nations, and select countries in Latin America and Europe.
    • Previous Visa Exemptions: Iran had earlier lifted visa requirements for Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Oman, China, Armenia, Lebanon, and Syria.
    • Tourist Influx Statistics: Iran witnessed a 48.5% increase in tourist numbers, reaching 4.4 million in the first eight months of the current Iranian year.

    Proposal for Wider Visa-Free Travel

    • Ministry’s Initial Proposal: The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts proposed visa-free travel for 60 countries, though it wasn’t fully approved.
    • Umrah Flights to Saudi Arabia: Starting December 19, Iranians can travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, marking the first such opportunity in eight years.

    India’s Growing Outbound Tourism Market

    • Current Visa-Free Countries: 27 countries now offer visa-free entry to Indian citizens, with recent additions including Kenya, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
    • Popular Destinations for Indian Citizens: The top five travel destinations are the UAE, the USA, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Thailand, with many visiting as part of the diaspora.

  • A time-honoured connect that will help bridge the Gulf

    Foreign Minister receives Indian National Security Advisor | Times of Oman - Times of Oman

    Central idea 

    The state visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman to India underscores the historical ties and strategic importance of Oman as India’s closest neighbor in the Arabian Gulf region. The visit builds upon the robust India-Oman strategic partnership, focusing on defense, security, trade, and shared interests.

    Key Highlights:

    • Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman is on a state visit to India, marking his first visit since assuming office in January 2020.
    • Oman holds strategic importance to India due to its geographical location, being the closest neighbor in the Arabian Gulf region.
    • The historical ties between India and Oman, reinforced by the ruling family’s favorable disposition, have led to robust diplomatic relations.
    • Oman’s foreign policy emphasizes moderation, mediation, and deliberate neutrality, making it a key player in diffusing tensions in the Gulf region.

    Key Challenges:

    • The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the region poses challenges to stability, testing the diplomatic skills of India and Oman.
    • Balancing relations with Western powers, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and neighboring Iran requires a delicate approach.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • India-Oman strategic partnership
    • Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
    • Gulf of Oman
    • Operation Sankalp
    • Duqm Port
    • India-Middle-East-Europe Connectivity Corridor (IMEEC)
    • South Asia Gas Enterprise (SAGE)

    Key Quotes:

    • “Oman is India’s gateway to West Asia.”
    • “Oman has pursued a foreign policy based on moderation, mediation, and deliberate neutrality.”

    Anecdotes and Examples:

    • Sultan Qaboos’ favorable disposition toward India, inviting Indian companies for projects and sourcing supplies.
    • Oman’s role in diffusing tensions during the Persian Gulf crisis in 2019.

    Key Statements:

    • The India-Oman strategic partnership is based on mutual trust and shared interests.
    • Oman’s deliberate neutrality during regional conflicts contributes to its role as an island of peace.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Bilateral trade between India and Oman reached $12.388 billion in FY2022-23.
    • Over 6,000 India-Oman joint ventures exist, with an estimated investment of over $7.5 billion.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Oman’s ability to manage rival ideologies and power games in the region makes it vital to India’s interests.
    • The visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is timely, given the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, testing the diplomatic resilience of both nations.

    Way Forward:

    • Strengthening security cooperation and maritime security efforts in the Indian Ocean region.
    • Exploring increased collaboration in strategic areas such as space cooperation and joint exploration of rare earth metals.

    The ongoing engagement between India and Oman is multidimensional, encompassing strategic, economic, and diplomatic facets. Both nations seek to enhance collaboration and navigate regional challenges for mutual benefit and stability.

  • Is Russia winning the Ukraine War?

    ukraine war russia

    Central Idea

    • It has been six months since Ukraine launched its counteroffensive against Russian forces.
    • Despite initial expectations, Ukraine has failed to achieve significant advancements on the battlefield.
    • President Zelensky is actively touring Western capitals, including Washington, to secure ongoing military assistance.

    Ukraine’s Counteroffensive: Progress and Challenges

    • Initial Strategy and Targets: The counteroffensive focused on three fronts, aiming to disrupt Russia’s land bridge to Crimea and make gains in the south and east.
    • Challenges in Advancement: Despite receiving advanced weaponry and training from Western allies, Ukrainian forces struggled against Russia’s fortified defenses, particularly in the south.
    • Setbacks and Losses: Ukrainian advances were hindered by minefields, electronic warfare, and lack of air power, leading to significant losses and little change in the frontline.

    Russia’s Current Position in the War

    • Recovery and Defense Building: After initial retreats, Russia has fortified its defensive positions and is on the offensive in certain areas like Avdiivka.
    • Mobilization and Military Production: Russia has mobilized additional troops and ramped up its military production, countering Western sanctions and supply challenges.
    • Economic Stability Despite Sanctions: Despite Western sanctions, Russia has managed to maintain economic stability by diversifying its energy trade, particularly with China and India.

    Waning Western Support for Ukraine

    • Shift in U.S. and EU Stance: There are indications that the U.S. and EU might be encouraging Ukraine to initiate talks with Russia.
    • Political and Financial Challenges: In the U.S., Republican opposition and declining public support are affecting aid to Ukraine, with potential implications for the 2024 presidential elections.
    • Uncertainty Over Continued Aid: The future of Western support is uncertain, especially if Ukraine fails to achieve significant military successes.

    Future Outlook: No End to the Conflict in Sight

    • Putin’s Stance on Peace Talks: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed no urgency in peace talks, focusing instead on achieving Russia’s objectives.
    • Ukraine’s Position on Negotiations: Ukraine, similarly, is not considering negotiations at the moment.
    • Potential Strategies and Challenges Ahead: As winter sets in, the conflict is expected to see a temporary freeze in frontline movements, with both sides possibly preparing for future offensives and counteroffensives.

    Conclusion

    • Continued Dependence on Western Aid: Ukraine’s prospects in the conflict remain heavily reliant on sustained Western military and financial support.
    • Uncertain Future for Ukraine: The ongoing war, coupled with geopolitical and economic dynamics, leaves Ukraine in a precarious position as it navigates a complex and evolving conflict landscape.

  • 75 Years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

    human rights

    Central Idea

    • 75th Anniversary: December 10 marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN General Assembly in Paris.
    • Foundation of International Order: Post-World War II, this declaration laid the groundwork for the international order, aiming to prevent future atrocities.

    Understanding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

    • Document Structure: Comprising a preamble and 30 articles, it outlines fundamental rights and freedoms.
    • Key Provisions: Articles emphasize equality in dignity and rights, non-discrimination, the right to life and liberty, prohibition of slavery and torture, fair trial rights, asylum rights, and freedoms of religion, opinion, expression, and assembly.
    • Right to Education: The declaration also enshrines the right to education for all.

    Origins and Development

    • Post-War Sentiment: Born from the “never again” resolve after the world wars and the Holocaust, it served as a “road map” for individual rights.
    • Drafting Process: Chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, the drafting committee represented diverse geographical regions, with over 50 countries contributing to the final draft.
    • Global Participation: Despite being drafted during widespread colonial rule, the declaration represented a collective effort, ensuring rights for all, including gender equality.

    Impact and Legacy

    • Non-Binding Nature: While not a treaty or legally binding, its principles have influenced national laws and international human rights treaties.
    • Inspiration for Movements: It spurred decolonization, anti-apartheid, and various human rights movements globally.
    • Universal Standard: Despite criticisms, it remains a universal human rights standard, influencing various subsequent human rights agreements.

    Current Challenges and Relevance

    • Contemporary Conflicts: The declaration’s anniversary comes amid ongoing human rights challenges in conflicts like Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine, and internal strife in Myanmar and Sudan.
    • U.N. Secretary-General’s Concerns: Antonio Guterres noted the misuse and abuse of the declaration, with some governments undermining it.
    • Amnesty International’s View: The organization sees the declaration as a testament to the feasibility of a global human rights vision.
    • Volker Türk’s Perspective: The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasizes the declaration’s enduring relevance, urging the world to recognize its successes and learn from its shortcomings.

    Conclusion: Upholding the Universal Declaration

    • Inherent Human Rights: The declaration underscores that human rights are intrinsic to every individual.
    • Leaders’ Responsibility: Leaders are reminded of their duty to uphold these rights, essential for the well-being of the people they serve.

  • In news: Operation Storm Makers II

    Central Idea

    • The Interpol operation Storm Makers II against fraud schemes fuelled by victims of human trafficking has unearthed further evidence that the trend is expanding beyond the Southeast Asian region.

    About Operation Storm Makers II

    • This operation was a special mission organized by Interpol Headquarters in Lyon, France.
    • The operation took place from October 16 to 20.
    • It involved law enforcement in 27 countries across Asia and other regions.

    The operation targeted human trafficking and cyber scams. It resulted in:

    1. Rescue of 149 human trafficking victims
    2. Hundreds of arrests
    3. More than 270,000 inspections and police checks

    Back2Basics: INTERPOL

    Details
    Full Name International Criminal Police Organization
    Member Countries Comprises 195 member countries
    Function Facilitates coordination among police forces globally; shares data on crimes and criminals
    Headquarters Located in Lyon, France
    Global Complex Has a Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore
    Satellite Offices Several regional offices in different parts of the world
    India’s Membership Joined in June 1956
    National Central Bureau (NCB) Each member country has an NCB; in India, it’s under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

    NCBs are the contact points for Interpol’s General Secretariat and other NCBs; run by police officials of the country
    Databases Manages 19 police databases with real-time access to information on crimes and criminals
    Investigative Support Provides forensic, analysis, and assistance in locating fugitives globally
    Red Notice (RN) Issued to alert police worldwide about fugitives wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence; for provisional arrest pending extradition or similar legal action