The United States no longer thinks Israeli settlements in the West Bank violate international law. This new view of U.S is different from that of most countries on this issue. Background: The West Bank, a patch of land about one and a half times the size of Goa, was captured by Jordan after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Israel snatched it back during the Six-Day War of 1967, and has occupied it ever since. Israel walked into East Jerusalem in 196... .
Updated on 20 November, 2019
November 19, 2019, marked the 102nd birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and one of the key agreements signed by her was the 1972 Simla Agreement. The Simla Agreement was signed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on 2 July 1972, following a full-blown war between India and Pakistan in 1971. Objectives of the Simla Agreement: To pave the way for diplomatic recognition of Bangladesh by ... .
Updated on 20 November, 2019
In a major shift in policy, Bhutan plans to levy charges on tourists from regional countries, including India, Bangladesh, Maldives; who presently are exempted from any charges. Background: The new draft tourism policy, which is likely to be finalised by the Bhutanese Cabinet next month, was discussed by the foreign minister of Bhutan - Tandi Dorji with External Affairs Minister - S. Jaishankar at meetings in Delhi. Reasons Behind Levying of C... .
Updated on 19 November, 2019
In news: The Indian and French navies will start coordinated patrols in the Indian Ocean region next year. France’s Interest in Indian Ocean: Overseas Territories like Reunion Islands formed a critical part of Indian Ocean region. 70% of French trade passes through the Straits of Babel Mandeb, Hormuz and Malacca and security of these vital arteries is important for France. Strengthening its Indo Pacific Strategy Significance: ... .
Updated on 19 November, 2019
The 11th BRICS Summit was convened in Brasília, Brazil. The 2019 Brazilian Presidency focuses on the theme, ‘BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future’. The BRICS Summit venues are chosen as per the rotational nature of venues among the five member States. About BRICS BRICS brings together five major emerging economies, comprising 43 percent of the world population, having 30 percent of the world GDP and 17 percent s... .
Updated on 18 November, 2019
Energy-Starved Africa Looks To India For Nuclear Reactors - Indian government is exploring supply of small nuclear power reactors to the electricity-starved countries of Africa. Significance for Africa Meet energy demands of growing population: India’s civilian nuke programme is attracting African nations amid fall in hydel capacity and climate change. Climate change has affected hydel power capacity. Affordable electricity: PHWRs of India are... .
Updated on 18 November, 2019
