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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
September 2016 October 2016

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Table of Contents
1. INDIA AND ITS NEIGHBOURS _________________________________________________________ 4
1.1. India-Pakistan ________________________________________________________________________ 4
1.2. India-China __________________________________________________________________________ 5
1.2.1. Background _______________________________________________________________________________ 5
1.2.2. China-Pak Axis _____________________________________________________________________________ 6

1.3. India-Afghanistan _____________________________________________________________________ 6

1.4. APTTA (Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement) _____________________________________ 7
1.5. India-Bhutan _________________________________________________________________________ 7
1.6. SAARC Summit _______________________________________________________________________ 8

2. EAST ASIA ________________________________________________________________________ 10

2.1. India-Asean _________________________________________________________________________ 10
2.2. India-Singapore ______________________________________________________________________ 12
2.3. India-Vietnam _______________________________________________________________________ 12

3. WEST ASIA ________________________________________________________________________ 15

3.1. India-Egypt__________________________________________________________________________ 15

4. INDIA-RUSSIA _____________________________________________________________________ 16
4.1. India-Russia relations _________________________________________________________________ 16
4.2. Russia-Pakistan ______________________________________________________________________ 16

5. IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL EVENTS ________________________________________________ 19

5.1. Regime Change in Brazil _______________________________________________________________ 19
5.2. Migrants and Refugees ________________________________________________________________ 19
5.2.1. New York Declaration on Migrants and Refugees _________________________________________________ 19
5.2.2. UNICEF Report on Refugees __________________________________________________________________ 20

6. IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL/ REGIONAL GROUPS AND SUMMITS ________________________ 23

6.1. G-20 Summit ________________________________________________________________________ 23
6.2. 17th Summit of the Non Aligned Movement (NAM) ________________________________________ 23
6.3. BIMSTEC____________________________________________________________________________ 25
6.4. BRICS ______________________________________________________________________________ 26
6.4.1. Eighth BRICS Summit _______________________________________________________________________ 26
6.4.2. BRICS Rating Agency________________________________________________________________________ 26
6.4.3 MOU between EXIM Bank, New Development Bank _______________________________________________ 27

6.5. Nuclear Disarmament _________________________________________________________________ 27

6.5.1. Disarmament and Security Committee _________________________________________________________ 28

6.6. MoU between India and AARDO ________________________________________________________ 28

6.7. Maldives quits Commonwealth _________________________________________________________ 30
6.8. International Criminal Court ___________________________________________________________ 30
6.9. UN Human Rights Council _____________________________________________________________ 31
6.10. Indias Speech at UNGA ______________________________________________________________ 31

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1. INDIA AND ITS NEIGHBOURS

1.1. INDIA-PAKISTAN
Why in News?
In the wake of the Uri attack, several experts have demanded that India withdraw from the Indus Waters Treaty
and also MFN status to Pakistan.
Indus Water Treaty (IWT)
The Indus Waters Treaty was signed on September 19, 1960 by the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and
Pakistan's President Ayub Khan.

The 1960 treaty for the Indus and five tributaries flowing from India to Pakistan was brokered by the World
Bank (then, the IBRD), and has held through wars and conflicts along the Line of Control.
The treaty administers how river Indus and its tributaries that flow in both the countries will be utilized.
According to the treaty, Beas, Ravi and Sutlej are to be governed by India, while, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum
are to be taken care by Pakistan.
However, since Indus flows from India, the country is allowed to use 20 per cent of its water for irrigation,
power generation and transport purposes.
A Permanent Indus Commission was set up as a bilateral commission to implement and manage the Treaty.
The Commission solves disputes arising over water sharing.
The Treaty also provides arbitration mechanism to solve disputes amicably.
Though Indus originates from Tibet, China has been kept out of the Treaty. If China decides to stop or change
the flow of the river, it will affect both India and Pakistan.
Climate change is causing melting of ice in Tibetan plateau, which scientists believe will affect the river in
future.
Both India and Pakistan are still at loggerheads over various issues since Partition, but there has been no
fight over water after the Treaty was ratified.

Review of IWT
In the wake of the Uri attack, several experts have demanded that India withdraw from the Indus Waters Treaty
whose terms are considered generous to Pakistan. However, officials made it clear that the IWT will hold, at
least for the moment. Instead, the Centre drew up a list of measures to optimize use of the Indus waters that
India has so far failed to do.
The Union government has decided to set up an inter-ministerial committee to study Indias further options
on the Indus Waters Treaty.
The government also decided to build more run-of-the-river hydropower projects on western rivers, to
exploit the full potential of 18,600 MW (current projects come to 11,406 MW).
A decision was taken to review restarting the Tulbul navigation project that India had suspended after
Pakistans objections in 1987.
If India revokes IWT

Revoking it would threaten regional stability and Indias credibility globally.

It remains unclear what India intends to do with the western rivers in question beyond the short-term plan
to irrigate Jammu and Kashmirs fields better.
Dams required holding the course of the tributaries of the Indus to alter water levels to Pakistan dramatically
would take more than a decade to build.
Given the environmental and geopolitical consequences of such actions, they are unlikely to elicit any
international funding.
Stopping the waters of the Indus rivers can be counterproductive also
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 India has water-sharing arrangements with other neighbours as well. Not honouring the Indus Treaty
would make them uneasy and distrustful.
India would would lose her voice if China, decides to do something similar.
Most Favoured Nation (MFN)

Most Favoured Nation is a treatment accorded to a trade partner to ensure non-discriminatory trade
between two countries vis-a-vis other trade partners. Under WTO rules, a member country cannot
discriminate between its trade partners. If a special status is granted to a trade partner, it must be extended
to all members of the WTO.
While India has given the status to Pakistan back in 1996, it has not reciprocated by doing the same till date.
Bilateral trade between the two nations was just $2.6 billion in 2015-16 (of which $2.2 billion constituted
Indias exports to Pakistan) - which represented a minuscule 0.4 per cent of Indias overall goods trade worth
$643.3 billion in the same year.
Therefore, even if India revokes the MFN status, it would only have a symbolic impact.

1.2. INDIA-CHINA
1.2.1. BACKGROUND
India-China relations go back to old civilizations that have enriched each other being next door neighbors. Both
the counties are large growing economies and major powers on the world stage. Our relations transcend the
bilateral ambit and have acquired regional and global and strategic significance.
Areas of cooperation between China and India

Trade aspect- China is one of India's largest trading partner.

Market aspect- China is big potential market for Indian pharmaceuticals and software products whereas
India is a big market for Chinese Manufactured products like electronics, machinery
Investment Aspect- China has huge surplus of cash and foreign exchange which India needs desperately for
its infrastructure projects whereas China needs collaboration in NDB and AIIB to get rid of its forex tied with
US securities.
Regional cooperation- For instance, both the counties are the members of BRICS, New Development Bank.
India also was a founding member of the China-backed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
Areas of Concern
Himalayan Border issue
o India and China have disagreed over Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh. China says Arunachal Pradesh is
part of China, while India insists China is illegally occupying Aksai Chin.
o The two sides fought a brief war in 1962 over the latter territory.
Strategic moves by China
o Beijing is moving into what New Delhi has traditionally seen as its own backyard.
o Through the "Maritime Silk Road" initiative, China has been trying to reach out to countries such as Sri
Lanka and Maldives, right in India's immediate neighborhood.
o China is actively seeking to advance its presence in countries in Indias neighborhood like Nepal and Sri
Lanka.
o String of Pearls
India is deeply unsettled over China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean.
The "string of pearls" strategy links China's interests in the countries surrounding India Sri Lanka,
Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Influence on the buffer state
o Competition for influence in water resource rich country Nepal has been brewing for years, with China
courting India's traditional ally with infrastructure projects like roads and hydropower dams.
o Nepal's location between India and China makes it geopolitically strategic, as a buffer between the two
Asian giants. It also shares a border with the fraught territory of Tibet, defusing tensions between China
and India.
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South China Sea issue

o While China asserting its dominance in the South China Sea region India stands strong in its view and
advocates freedom of navigation and unimpeded commerce.
River Water Issue
o The dispute between india and china is mainly regarding the Brahmaputra river flowing through the two
countries.
o Due to Chinese efforts to divert the water resources of the Brahmaputra River away from India situation
has remained tensed since the 1962 Indo-China war.
o Recently, China blocked a tributary of the Brahmaputra as part of a major hydro-electric project, whose
construction began in 2014.
Maintaining a strategic Balance- If Sino-Indian ties worsen, India could well be firmly drawn towards the US.
Part of the reason for the growing bonhomie between India and the US is China's growing belligerence.
Chinese support to Pakistan (explained below)

1.2.2. CHINA-PAK AXIS

Key Concern Areas

UNSC and NSG Membership- China opposed Indias admission into the Permanent Membership of the UNSC
and Indias membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Whereas,it insisted Pakistan to be admitted to
UNSC forgetting its reputation as a nuclear proliferator.
Infrastructure investment- China has been investing in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which will
connect Kashgar in China's Xinjiang province with the port of Gwadar in Pakistan.
Terrorism- Chinas has been shielding Pakistans notorious Jihadi terrorist outfit chief, Massod Azhar from
being listed as a Global Terrorist by the UN. It does not go along with China aspiring to be a Superpower
and claiming to be a responsible stakeholder in global security.
Encouragement to Military Adventurism- China is not only a part of the overall Pakistan problem for India
but now with the CPEC as the prized strategic objective of China, the stakes for China to encourage
Pakistans military adventurism against India gets considerably raised.

Way forward for India

Both India and China want a new international status that commensurate with their size, strength and
potential.
To restore a semblance of equality in the relationship it is necessary to build up economic and security
capabilities and begin to close the power gap with China.
Such cooperation between the two countries could allow them to rebalance global influences and develop a
better negotiating position in the world.
Indias foreign policy formulations and perspectives on China and Pakistan need no longer be considered as
separate foreign policy planning domains but viewed as one hyphenated strategic entity.

1.3. INDIA-AFGHANISTAN
Why in News?
Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani paid official visit to India. During the visit following agreements have been
singed between two countries.

India and Afghanistan signed an Extradition Treaty to facilitate exchange of wanted terrorists and criminals.
The two sides also sealed agreements on peaceful uses of outer space and on cooperation on civil and
commercial matters
India also extended a $one-billion for capacity and capability building in areas such as education, health,
agriculture, skill development, empowerment of women, energy, infrastructure and strengthening of
democratic institutions.
India also offered Afghanistan affordable pharmaceutical products and medicines.
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1.4. APTTA (AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN TRANSIT TRADE AGREEMENT)

The AfghanistanPakistan Transit Trade Agreement (also known as APTTA) is a bilateral trade agreement signed
in 2010 by Pakistan and Afghanistan that calls for greater facilitation in the movement of goods amongst the two
countries.

The 2010 APTTA allows for both countries to use each other's airports, railways, roads, and ports for transit
trade along designated transit corridors.
The agreement does not cover road transport vehicles from any third country, be it from India or any Central
Asia country.
The APTTA agreement allows Afghan trucks to transport exports to India via Pakistan up to
the Wagah crossing point, but does not offer Afghanistan the right to import Indian goods across Pakistani
territory.

Issues with APTTA

Far from being a unifier, the APTTA itself has become a point of deep discord.

Bitter India-Pakistan relations mean Afghan trucks carrying perishable fruit face long delays on both sides of
the border where they must be loaded and unloaded, often more than once.
Pakistan has rejected the demand voiced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani that India be made a party to its
transit trade pact with Kabul
Indias External Affairs Minister had at the last Heart of Asia ministerial conference in Islamabad expressed
Indias wish to join the Afghanistan-Pakistan Trade and Transit Agreement (APTTA).

Separate trade routes

India, Pakistan and Afghanistan are moving at a furious pace to cut one another out of the trade equation.

India is working on a corridor via Irans Chabahar port, where goods will go up the land route and connect to
the Zaranj-Delaram Highway without touching Pakistan.
Pakistan will connect directly to China through the small strip through PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan once the
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is ready, avoiding both India and Afghanistan.
Afghanistan too is assiduously cultivating its options to the north, and its position in Chinas One Belt, One
Road plans.

1.5. INDIA-BHUTAN
Why in news?

The Union Cabinet approved a new agreement for a free trade regime between India and Bhutan.
The previous Agreement on Trade, Commerce and Transit between India and Bhutan was signed on July 29,
2006 for a period of ten years.

About the new Agreement

The new agreement provides for

A free trade regime between two countries.
Duty free transit of Bhutanese merchandise for trade with third countries.
Bilateral trade between will continue to be transacted in Indian Rupees and Bhutanese Ngultrums.
The new agreement removed requirement of having an annual consultation between India and Bhutan for
the transit of goods of both countries along with the goods originating in third country.

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1.6. SAARC SUMMIT

Why in News?
In the wake of the Uri attack, Indian government has launched diplomatic offensive to isolate Pakistan
internationally and in its neighbourhood.

India has decided to pull out of the SAARC summit in Islamabad this November, with Afghanistan, Bhutan
and Bangladesh deciding to follow suit.
The decision is unprecedented as this is the first time that India has cancelled participation in the regional
groups summit meeting because of actions that it blames on Pakistan-based elements.
As per Experts, Indias cancellation might handicap economic integration in South Asia.

SAARC minus Pakistan

By pulling out of the SAARC summit in Islamabad, the government is trying to achieve two ends: sending a tough
message in the wake of the Uri attack, but also that it is going ahead with its plan for SAARC minus Pakistan
instead.

Since the previous Nepal summit, Pakistan has blocked all protocols to better link the region, while India has
pursued a SAARC minus Pakistan plan to push through with agreements it is keen on.
Motor vehicle movement agreement, railway linkages, and the SAARC satellite programme for which all
SAARC countries apart from Pakistan have signed up.
With Afghanistan, which cannot be accessed by land, the two governments have discussed a separate air
corridor for cargo.
A bigger articulation of that vision is expected in mid-October, when India hosts the BIMSTEC outreach
summit on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Goa.
Another grouping of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka met for the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) programme in Delhi to release the first SASEC Operational Plan
2016-2025.
SASECs lead financier, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has already approved about 40 infrastructures
and IT projects worth about $7.7 billion.

Pakistans line of action

Pakistan continues to receive support from several other countries outside of the SAARC, most notably
China, and also has a new relationship with Russia that conducted its first-ever military exercises in Pakistan
just days after the Uri attack. Iran too sent four naval warships to the Karachi port to participate in a Passage
exercise (PASSEX).

Way forward for India

An economic union is the order of the day. If India has to achieve its global desires to be an economic power, she
has to get into the drivers seat and create an environment which provides opportunities and not just veto them
for security concerns.

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2. EAST ASIA
2.1. INDIA-ASEAN
Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 14th Asean-India Summit and 11th East Asia Summit in Vientiane,
the capital of Laos.
History and Evolution of the India-ASEAN Relations after its Independence in 1947, India followed a policy of
Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and became a champion of decolonisation, including in Southeast Asia.
However, during the 1970s, India's perceived tilt towards the Soviet Union led Southeast Asia to drift away from
India as both followed different economic and political ideologies.

In a major shift away from policies of the Cold War era,

Why is it important?
India adopted the Look East Policy (LEP) soon after
These summits are important for both Asean
economic liberalisation in 1991 to increase economic and
members and India because issues like maritime
commercial ties with East and Southeast Asian nations
security, terrorism and other matters of regional
such as China. Over the years the policy has also
and international interests were discussed at a
concentrated on building closer ties on the strategic and
time when China was involved in a raging
security aspects in the region.
dispute with the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan,
Phases of LEPMalaysia and Brunei over ownership of territory
Phase I lasted between 1991 and 2002, when the
in the South China Sea.
primary thrust was toward renewed political and
economic relations with ASEAN countries.
During Phase II (2003 to 2012), the scope of the LEP was broadened to include China, Japan, South
Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.
The new phase of LEP would focus on extensive economic and security issues, including joint efforts to
protect the Sea Lanes of Communications and launch coordinated counter-terrorism activities.
One of the major consequences of India's engagement with ASEAN has been the ASEAN-India Free Trade
Agreement (AIFTA), which was seen as an essential step towards deeper economic integration.
Its initial framework was signed on 8 October 2003 in Bali, Indonesia and the final agreement was signed
on 13 August 2009, coming into effect from 1 January 2010.
The FTA reduced tariff barriers to trade between India and the ASEAN countries, and included specific
provisions for services trade and investment facilitation.
India was accorded full ASEAN Dialogue Partner Status in 1995, followed by its membership in the ASEAN
Regional Forum. The India-ASEAN Relations soon broadened its cooperation into political as well as security
arenas. India also joined the East Asian Summit (EAS) in 2005.
ASEAN has been a strategic partner of India since 2012. India and ASEAN have 30 dialogue mechanisms
which meet regularly.
India's engagement with the ASEAN and wider Asia-Pacific region has acquired further momentum following
the enunciation of the Act-East Policy(AEP) at the 12th ASEAN-India Summit and 9th East Asia Summit in
Myanmar in November 2014.
Under the AEP, India not only expected to bolster its economic engagements with the region; it yearned to
emerge as a potential security balancer as well.
Commerce, Culture and Connectivity are the three pillars of Indias robust engagement with ASEAN.
Enhancing the connectivity in all its dimensions physical, digital, economy, institutional and cultural- has
been at the heart of Indias strategic partnership with ASEAN.

Importance of ASEAN for India

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Economically: India is one of the strategic partners of ASEAN. With a total population of 1.8 billion and a
combined GDP of $3.8 trillion, ASEAN and India together form an important economic space in the world.
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Geopolitically
India expects to benefit geopolitically as well from its rejuvenated affinity with ASEAN and other regional
countries.
India has attempted to demonstrate its ability to play a dynamic role in the region. India sent a strong
signal to China by mentioning the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the South China
Sea.
Maritime Importance: Freedom of navigation in the South China Sea is essential for India in order to ensure
that its sea-bound trade continues uninterrupted.
Sea lanes are life lines of global trade. India supports freedom of navigation based on United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
East Asia Summit (EAS)
ASEAN is important for extending cooperation in areas
such as maritime security including freedom of
The East Asia Summit is the premier
leaders-led forum in the Asia-Pacific.
navigation, drug trafficking and cybercrime.
Since its inception in 2005, it has played
Security Aspect: There are diverse areas on which India and
a significant role in the strategic,
ASEAN are jointly working, e.g. non-traditional security
geopolitical and economic evolution of
threats such as terrorism, human and drug trafficking,
East Asia.
cybercrimes and piracy in the Malacca Straits, etc.
Apart from the 10 ASEAN Member
Connectivity Aspect
states, East Asia Summit includes India,
The envisaged highway (under construction) and rail
China, Japan, Republic of Korea,
connectivity to energy giants like, Nepal and Myanmar
Australia, New Zealand, United States
and further to Thailand, will improve people to people
and Russia.
contact, thus enhancing the sphere of economic
India, being a founding member of the
East Asia Summit, is committed to
cooperation and interdependence.
strengthening the East Asia Summit and
The highly underdeveloped NE States of India, which lie
making it more effective for dealing with
at the gateway to a region offering unlimited economic
contemporary challenges.
opportunities, will witness an economic transformation.
Energy security
ASEAN countries, particularly Myanmar, Vietnam and Malaysia can potentially contribute to Indias
energy security.
Oil and natural gas deposits in the South China Sea region.

Trade relation with ASEAN

Trade between India and ASEAN stood at US$ 65.04 billion in 2015-16 and comprises 10.12% of Indias total
trade with the world.
The ASEAN-India economic integration process has got a fillip with the creation of the ASEAN-India Free
Trade Area in July 2015, following the entry into force of the ASEAN-India Trade in Services and Investment
Agreements.
Conclusion of a balanced Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement will further
boost our trade and investment ties with the region.

Important Issues Highlighted by PM Modi during the EAS

The two most significant issues highlighted by PM Modi during his address at EAS were: Recommending
strongest action against those states that use terrorism as an instrument of state policy and outlining Indias
principled stand on the South China Sea issue.

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PM Modi commented that most countries in the South Asian region were pursuing a peaceful path to
economic prosperity But, there is one country in Indias neighbourhood whose competitive advantage
rests solely in producing and exporting terrorism.
For Indias principled stand on the South China Sea issue, he said that the lanes of communication passing
through the sea were main arteries of global merchandise trade.
India supports freedom of navigation and over flight, and unimpeded commerce, based on the principles of
international law, as reflected notably in the UNCLOS.

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2.2. INDIA-SINGAPORE
Why in news?
Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore Mr. Lee Hsien
Loong visited India recently.

During the visit the following agreements were

signed:

Significance of Singapore for India

India and Singapore has a wide ranging relationship that is

as strategic as well as economic.
Singapore has been developing close links with Indian
states like West Bengal, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and
Telangana. Hence, economic partnership is increasing.
Both countries are seeking to explore other areas such as
tourism and skill development.
Singapore has been backing a greater role for India in the
Indo-Pacific region.
The landscape in ASEAN is changing. In such a situation,
Singapores voice is likely to become even more crucial and
the India-Singapore strategic partnership is likely to further
strengthen.

MoU in the field of Industrial Property

Cooperation between Department of
Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and
Intellectual Property Office of Singapore.
MoU on Collaboration in the Field of
Technical and Vocational Education and
Training between the National Skill
Development Corporation and ITE Education
Services, Singapore.
MoU on Collaboration in the Field of
Technical and Vocational Education and
Training between the Government of Assam
and ITE Education Services, Singapore.
The agreements were signed for smart cities
drive and skill India program during the
bilateral visit as Singapore has expertise in
both the fields.

2.3. INDIA-VIETNAM
Why in news?
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent visit to Vietnam marked an important step forward in their ties.
During Modis visit, the two countries decided to upgrade their relationship from a strategic partnership to a
comprehensive strategic partnership.
Trade and investment

Outcomes of the Visit

The bilateral trade between two countries

is around $ 8 billion; it has grown 400 per

India and Vietnam signed 12 agreements in a wide range of
cent in the last six to seven years. Both
areas covering defence, IT, space, double taxation and
sides have agreed on a new trade target of
sharing white shipping information, signalling a strong
US$ 15 billion by 2020.
upward push in their strategic ties.
India has 93 projects in Vietnam with total
Defence Agreement: India extended $500 million Line of
investment of about US$ 1 bn.
Credit to Vietnam for facilitating deeper defence
Vietnam has three investment projects in
cooperation with the south East Asian nation, as the two
India with total investment of US$ 23.6
countries elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic
million.
Partnership to respond to emerging regional challenges.
India had offered earlier $100 million in 2013 to Vietnam to buy defense hardware. Though both countries
have been negotiating the sale of BrahMos missiles (jointly produced by India and Russia), no decision was
taken on the issue during this latest visit.

South China Sea conflict

India and Vietnam called for peaceful resolution of the South China Sea issue and exercise self-restraint.
They also urged all parties to show utmost respect for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the
Sea (UNCLOS).

Vietnams Importance for India

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Vietnam is an important element of Indias Act East Policy, which aims to re-invigorate its historical ties with
countries in Southeast and East Asia.
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Connectivity: In the future, the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway could link up with already existing
roads like the one linking Thailand with the Vietnamese port of Da Nang.
Vietnam is also an important partner for Indias engagement in the ASEAN being the coordinator country for
India-ASEAN ties for 2015-2018.
Strategic location: Vietnam is located at a strategically important place and operates as the gate to enter
Southeast Asia from north.
India's relations with Vietnam are marked by growing economic and commercial engagement. India is now
among the top ten trading partners of Vietnam.
Indias growing economy needs energy resources and Vietnam has rich hydrocarbon reserves, for example
ONGC had been given two exploration blocks originally (Block 127 and Block 128 in 2006).

Indias Importance for Vietnam

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India could be a bulwark against the dominance of any single country in the region. Hanoi has a longfestering territorial dispute with Beijing in the South China Sea.
Indian companies can infuse much needed capital and technology into the Vietnamese market to bring it to
par with its East Asian counterparts.
There is the strong cultural aspect to the relationship, with Buddhism seeping into Vietnam from the land of
its birth in India. Vietnam has a large number of Buddhists and many of them come to visit Buddhist holy
shrines in India.
Spirituality has given a fresh and interesting aspect to India-Vietnam relationship. With the resurgence of
Buddhism in Vietnam, the country has found a deep connect with India, home to Buddhism.

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3. WEST ASIA
3.1. INDIA-EGYPT
Why in News?
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi paid official visit to India.
Outcomes of the Visit:
Political and Security Cooperation

Declaration of a robust defence and security partnership is likely to further energise the Joint Defence
Cooperation which was set up in 2006 and has held six meetings so far.
The two leaders highlighted the leading role of India and Egypt in the maintenance of international peace
and security, being among the ten largest troop and police contributing countries in United Nations
missions.
Fighting terrorism has been identified as an important issue for both India and Egypt as they are concerned
with the growing menace of the Islamic State (IS).
The two leaders affirmed their commitment to achieve a comprehensive reform of the United Nations,
including the revitalization of the General Assembly as the only universal organ representing all member
states.
The two leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They also reaffirmed their
resolve to work together at UN on concluding the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism
(CCIT).
To tackle the challenges of adverse impacts of climate change, the two leaders highlighted the importance
of a global approach based on the principles and provisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement in particular the principles of Equity, and the Common
but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR).
Both leaders emphasized that enhanced support from developed countries to developing countries and the
provision of adequate, predictable and sustainable means of implementation in particular finance,
technology transfer and capacity building is a corner stone for the realization of the globally agreed
commitments to tackle climate change.

Trade and Investment

India and Egypt vowed to take their economic and trade ties to the next level. Both countries have set a
bilateral trade target of $8 billion in the near future from the current $3 billion.
There are currently 52 Indian companies operating in Egypt of which 25 are joint ventures with a total
investment of $3 billion across a wide range of sectors.
As a $286-billion economy with around 89 million consumers, which is the second largest in Africa, Egypt has
tremendous potential as an economic partner.
President Al-Sisi invited Indian participation in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, particularly in sectors such as
petro-chemicals, energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, skills and IT.

Agreement on Maritime Transport

India and Egypt signed an agreement on Maritime Transport. The agreement would help the two nations to
step-up co-operation on the seas not only in terms of maritime commerce but also in transit of naval vessels.

Cultural exchange

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Cultural exchange is another vital aspect of our excellent bilateral relations.

The two leaders agreed that a special and enlarged "India by the Nile Festival" would be held in 2017 to
commemorate the 70th anniversary of India's independence. They also welcomed the proposal to have the
inaugural "Egypt by the Ganga Festival" in 2017.
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4. INDIA-RUSSIA
4.1. INDIA-RUSSIA RELATIONS
Why in news?

The Russian President visited India for the 17th bilateral summit between India and Russia.
PM Modi highlighted the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia by quoting
that, An old friend is better than two new friends.

Key Highlights of the Bilateral Summit

Cross Border Terrorism- Condemned unequivocally and sealed a deal on information security to counter
terrorism, drug trafficking and other illegal cross-border activities.
Defence Sector- Agreement to buy Russias most advanced S-400 Triumf anti-missile defence system, to
manufacture Kamov-226T utility helicopters and four improved Krivak or Talwar class stealth.
Regional Integration and Trade- Emphasize on implementation of the International North-South Transport
Corridor (INSTC).
Infrastructure and Technology- Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) to invest in a sub-fund under the
National Infrastructure Investment Fund (NIIF) of India.
Nuclear Power Project- Modi and Putin both jointed declared the second unit of Kudankulam Nuclear Power
Plant (Units 5 and 6).
Russian Largest FDI in India- Russian oil firm Rosneft and United Capital Partners signed an agreement to
acquire Essar Energy Holdings Ltds refining and retail assets at $10.9 billion, making it Russias largest
foreign direct investment in India.

4.2. RUSSIA-PAKISTAN
Why in News?
Pakistan-Russia conducted first-ever joint military drills dubbed Friendship2016 in Pakistan. Reflecting
growing military ties between the two former Cold War rivals.
Concerns for India
Joint military exercise held at a moment when India was trying to isolate Pakistan after the Uri attacks,
coping with fresh political violence inside Kashmir, and drawing international attention to Indias claims over
Gilgit-Baltistan.
That Russia was unwilling to postpone these exercises in deference to Indian sensitivities at this critical
juncture suggests something fundamental is at work in Moscows approach to the Subcontinent.
The joint drill is seen as another step in growing military-to-military cooperation, indicating a steady growth
in bilateral relationship between the two countries.
A Russian-Pakistani renaissance started in 2014 when the Kremlin removed its arms embargo against
Islamabad.
In 2015, Moscow agreed to sell four Mi-35M helicopters to Pakistan and welcomed Islamabad to join the
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Change in Russias strategy
Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia has shown assertiveness in international affairs.

16

It has taken a clear position on opposing Western intervention and militarist regime-change policies in Iraq
and Libya and now in Syria.
Russia has used counter-force in the fight against the Islamic State in backing Syrian President Bashar alAssad.
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It retook the province of Crimea that it had gifted Ukraine in 1954 due to (Soviet) historical reasons. This
invited unilateral sanctions on Russia from the U.S. and the European Union.
Demonised by the West, Russia has become a strategic partner of China and they have significant
convergence of interests.
Russia dependent on arms and energy exports is constantly looking for new markets and Pakistan is a
potential one. The planned exercises were an extension of this search.

Indias policy shift

India as an emerging power has developed a strategic partnership with the U.S. There are real and perceived
shifts in Indian armament policies where Russia dominated for years.

India has opened up to the U.S., France, and Israel, all of whom are gradually edging out the Russians in
some sectors. The Kremlin has grown cautious lately about Indias augmenting defense cooperation with the
United States and other Western nations.
Russia-India trade has not grown to great heights despite the encouragement of both states. Yet India has
been supportive of Russian positions and has a careful and calibrated response to all Russian actions in
Chechnya, Syria, Ukraine and elsewhere, India has supported Russia. The Russians, on their part, have
dutifully backed the Indian position on Kashmir.
The greatest weakness is the lack of an economic relationship that encompasses the Indian private sector.
Indias odd defence purchase and equity stake in a Siberian oil or gas field are substitutes for rather than the
basis of a strategic relationship.
India has its own military exercises with the U.S. and has signed logistics agreements which can eventually
give the U.S. access to Indian naval bases.

Way forward

17

The military exercise may not have much impact on India-Russia relations but surely it indicates that India
cannot take Russia for granted. There is urgent need to revitalize our relation with Russia. In these
circumstances, India has to rebuild on its strengths and common concerns with the Russians.
Russia will not become a major Pakistani partner any time soon, and will remain closely connected to India.
Still, the Kremlins move delivers a strong message to the Modi administration. In effect, New Delhi
acknowledges Moscows security concerns but also understands that the Russia-Pakistani partnership would
continue to evolve proportionally to Indias cooperation with the West.

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5. IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

5.1. REGIME CHANGE IN BRAZIL
Brazil's Dilma Rousseff was stripped of the country's presidency in a Senate impeachment vote, ending 13 years
of leftist rule in Latin America's biggest economy.
Reasons for Rousseffs Impeachment

Ms. Rousseffs popularity has eroded fast over the last year with a deepening economic crisis and a
spreading corruption scandal, in which several of her Workers Party (PT) leaders have been implicated.
Some of the measures she took, such as cutting public expenditure to control deficit, were counterproductive as they drove the PTs traditional base, the working people, away from her.

Economic crisis

Brazil's economy is going through its worst recession in more than three decades following a drop in prices
for Brazilian commodities such as oil, iron ore and soya.
In 2015, the economy shrank by 3.8%, its worst annual performance since 1981.
Inflation reached 10.7% at the end of last year, a 12-year-high.
Unemployment increased to 9% in 2015 and economists predict it could go into double figures in the coming
months.

Impact of impeachment

The impeachment is likely to deepen Brazils political crisis at a time when the country needs a stable
administration to cope with the enormous challenges it faces, especially the current economic crisis, and
chronic corruption.
The impact of the Brazilian political crisis on global politics has been damaging because the world needs the
contribution of the regions largest country.
Geographically and politically, Brazil has to be the axis around which its predominantly Spanish-speaking
neighbours must turn and coordinate their policies.
Russia, China and India have strengthened their politico-economic bilateral relations with Brazil considerably
in recent years, and will be fearful of what the future may hold.
Due to leadership crisis first in South Africa and now in Brazil, the efficacy of BRICS, IBSA and BASIC has
become precarious.

5.2. MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES

5.2.1. NEW YORK DECLARATION ON MI GRA NTS A ND REFUGEES
Need for Declaration

The world is faced with more than 21 million refugees, almost 41 million internally displaced, 3.2 million
asylum seekers and increasing flows of mixed migrants caused by conflict, repression and poverty.
This grave trend is further fueled by climate change and the disasters and pressure on resources they leave
behind. Such incidences have led to the New York Declaration.

Aim of the Declaration

19

it expresses the political will of world leaders to save lives, protect rights and share responsibility on a global
scale.

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The declaration aimed at providing a more coordinated and humane response to the refugee crisis that has
strained resources and sparked divisions from Africa to Europe.

What are the commitments?

The New York Declaration contains bold commitments both to address the issues we face now and to prepare
the world for future challenges. These include commitments to:

Protect the human rights of all refugees and migrants, regardless of status. This includes the rights of
women and girls and promoting their full, equal and meaningful participation in finding solutions.
Ensure that all refugee and migrant children are receiving education within a few months of arrival.
Prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based
Refugees
violence.
According to the UN Refugee Agency,
Support those countries rescuing, receiving and hosting
refugees are people forced to flee due to
large numbers of refugees and migrants.
armed conflict or persecution, while
Work towards ending the practice of detaining children
migrants choose to move in search of a
for the purposes of determining their migration status.
better life.
Strongly condemn xenophobia against refugees and
Around the world, there are currently
migrants and support a global campaign to counter it.
about 21.3 million refugees, 3.2 million
Strengthen the positive contributions made by migrants to
asylum seekers, and 40.8 million migrants.
economic and social development in their host countries.
Improve the delivery of humanitarian and development assistance to those countries most affected,
including through innovative multilateral financial solutions, with the goal of closing all funding gaps.
Implement a comprehensive refugee response, based on a new framework that sets out the responsibility
of Member States, civil society partners and the UN system, whenever there is a large movement of
refugees or a protracted refugee situation.
Find new homes for all refugees identified by UNHCR as needing resettlement; and expand the
opportunities for refugees to relocate to other countries through, for example, labour mobility or education
schemes.
Strengthen the global governance of migration by bringing the International Organization for Migration into
the UN system.
No binding commitments: The declaration has no concrete commitments and is not legally binding but
rather calls on countries to protect refugees human rights, boost humanitarian aid and increase
resettlement of refugees.

5.2.2. UNICEF REPORT ON REFUGEES

Why in news?
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) on 7 September
2016 released the report titled Uprooted: The growing crisis for
refugee and migrant children.
Key findings

20

According to the report, nearly 50 million children have been

uprooted across the globe and millions more migrating in
the hope of finding a better, safer life.
Traumatized by the conflicts and violence they are fleeing,
they face further dangers including
the risk of drowning on sea crossings,
malnourishment,
trafficking,
rape and even murder
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International protocols
Convention on the Rights of the Child
(1989)
Convention relating to the Status of
Refugees (1951) and Protocol (1967)
Protocol against the Smuggling of
Migrants by Land, Sea and Air (2000)
International
Convention
on
the
Protection of the Rights of All Migrant
Workers and Members of Their Families
(1990.
Many countries are yet to ratify these which
will strengthen protections to these refugees.

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In countries they travel through and at their destinations, they often face xenophobia and discrimination.
1 in 200 children in the world is a child refugee.
Nearly 1 in 3 children living outside their country of birth is a refugee
Child refugees has increased by two times from 2005 to 2015.
Regional perspective:
Asia is home to 2 in 5 of the worlds child migrants

Six specific actions to protect refugee and migrant children

21

Protecting child refugees and migrants, particularly unaccompanied children from exploitation and violence.
Ending the detention of children seeking refugee status or migrating by introducing a range of practical
alternatives.
Keeping families together as the best way to protect children and give children legal status.
Keeping all refugee and migrant children learning and giving them access to health and other quality
services.
Pressing for action on the underlying causes of large-scale movements of refugees and migrants.
Promoting measures to combat xenophobia, discrimination and marginalization.

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6. IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL/
GROUPS AND SUMMITS

REGIONAL

6.1. G-20 SUMMIT

Why in News?
11th G20 Summit was held in Hangzhou, China. The theme of the Summit was Toward an Innovative,
Invigorated, Interconnected and Inclusive World Economy.
Highlights of G20 Summit

Leaders of G20 economies have made substantial achievements on development issues including consensus
to advance anti-corruption campaign and set up a research centre in China on fugitive repatriation and
asset recovery.
Sustainable Development
For the first time, the summit put the issue of development front and centre of the global macro policy
framework, constituted an action plan to
G-20
facilitate the implementation of the 2030
The G20 started in 1999 as a meeting of Finance
Agenda for Sustainable Development and
Ministers and Central Bank Governors in the
supported the industrialisation of African
aftermath of the Asian financial crisis.
countries and least developed countries
It is a premier forum for international economic
collectively.
cooperation and decision-making. It comprises 19
Hangzhou Consensus
countries plus the European Union.
Hangzhou Consensus calls on the G20 to
G20 represents 85% of global GDP, 80% of
international trade, 65% of worlds population.
deliver more inclusive economic growth

In 2008, the first G20 Leaders' Summit was held, and

through co-ordinated macroeconomic policy,
the group played a key role in responding to the
open trade and innovation. In short, it
global financial crisis.
reaffirms the groups core mandate: to make
globalisation work for the benefit of all.
International tax avoidance
Numerous low-key objectives shared by multiple G20 members, such as strengthening enforcement
against international tax avoidance and advancing cooperation on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting.
Climate change
Despite pressure from the US and China, the final G20 communique has skipped any mention of the
December 2016 deadline for member-countries to ratify the Paris Agreement on climate change.
It has also avoided specifying a date for ending fossil fuel subsidies.
Among the major issues that found mention in the summit was the question of excess steel capacity in China
resulting in a flood of cheap imports into India, the U.K. and other economies.
Little real progress was made on key issues of climate change and energy.
Other challenges that consumed the attention and energy of leaders on the sidelines, including co-ordinated
responses to the Syrian crisis, refugees, terrorism and migration, remain unresolved.

6.2. 17TH SUMMIT OF THE NON ALIGNED MOVEMENT (NAM)

Why in news?

23

The 17th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) took place in Margarita, Venezuela.
India was represented by Vice President and not by the head of government (Prime Minister) as the usual
practice.
Only once before, the Indian Prime Minister had not been to the NAM Summit at Havana (Cuba) in 1979
under the caretaker government of Prime Minister Charan Singh.

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Highlights of Vice President address at summit

Anti-terrorism Push:
India echoed for "concrete action" to fight against terrorism and asked the 120-nation group to set up a
mechanism to ensure effective cooperation in combating the menace.
Vice President called terrorism as one of the "most egregious sources of human right violations today"
and condemned its use as an instrument of state policy.
UN reform
Vice President strongly flagged the issue of UN reforms. He urged for use the forthcoming 71st UNGA to
ensure that discussions in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations move forward.
Noting that the global landscape has changed since 1961, when NAM was formed, Vice President
stressed that the values and principles on which the foundations of the movement, namely
- "respect for sovereignty"
- "peaceful settlement of disputes" and
- "international cooperation" - are as relevant today as they were at the time of the first summit.
Sustainable development
He urged member states to ensure wholehearted and holistic implementation of the SDGs and remain
attentive to any effort to modify or distort Agenda 2030.
He called Sustainable development as the bedrock and the highest aspiration of NAM countries' efforts.
Peace and sovereignty
He asserted that peace and sovereignty are a prerequisite for development; a peaceful global
environment is essential for development and for development cooperation.

Post-Cold War world Transition in NAM

Over the course of the past 60 years, the NAM has seen an erosion of its authority.

The Third World debt crisis of the 1980s crushed the economic ambitions of NAM states.
Unipolar world: The Soviet Union collapsed, the U.S. bombed Panama and Iraq, and history seemed to end
with American ascendency.
By the early 1990s, several important powers of NAM began to back away (Argentina left in 1991).
Yugoslavia crumbled, with war tearing apart its promise.
India went to the IMF and gestured to the U.S. that its days of non-alignment had gradually come to a
close. NAM oscillated between suspicion of U.S. motives and attempts to regenerate the economic
engines of its members.
No binding principles: NAM does not have any binding principles and that it is a marriage of convenience
among disparate countries. Contrary to the image of a cohesive movement seeking to challenge the
dominance of the imperialist powers, it was hard to find agreement among the founding leaders on the
purpose and objectives of NAM.
Division within NAM: The Iran-Iraq war, the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, the Vietnamese intervention
in Cambodia, and the military support to national liberation movements in Southern Africa and Central
America had deeply divided the NAM.

Importance/Relevance of NAM

24

NAM acts as catalyst to foster the co-operation between south -south nation.
NAM is particularly important in elections at the UN, including the possible identification of new permanent
members of the Security Council. In fact, it was through NAM that we operated to counter the efforts to
expand the UN Security Council by including just Germany and Japan as permanent members.
No NAM country may agree to isolate Pakistan, but the NAM forum will be an effective instrument to
project our anti-terrorist sentiments. NAM has the potential to act as a strong movement against
international terrorism. NAM therefore must continue to live as the movement of the developing countries
engaged in the pursuit of international peace, security, and development.
NAM today, like the Commonwealth has always been, is a heritage we need not discard.
The very informal nature of NAM permits members to operate individually. It also has the facility of
members reserving their positions, as we did on the non-proliferation positions of NAM.
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To conclude
Politics of the Third World has successfully influenced the thematic setting of the global agenda. Today NorthSouth relations and the issues connected with the development of countries of the South have become one of
the main inertia systems of our global world, and in formulating potential answers to global challenges. There is
an ever increasing need for non-alignment in the sense of alliance formation and concerted efforts to make the
existence of the NAM no less necessary than before." What we need to do is to strengthen the movement with
new hopes and new challenges as per 21st century.

6.3. BIMSTEC
Why in news?

The Summit was held in Goa in October 2016.

The next meeting will be held in Nepal for the
Fourth BIMSTEC Summit in 2017.
Focus Areas of Summit were Regional
connectivity, terrorism, development of the
region, Cooperation in various sectors, promoting
people-to-people contacts and tourism.
In this regard, BIMSTEC countries have issued
Leaders Retreat Outcome Document.

About BIMSTEC
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral
Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a
regional organization.
It came into being on 6 June 1997 through the
Bangkok Declaration.
It comprises of seven Member States lying in the
littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal.
Five deriving from South Asia, including Bangladesh,
Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Two from
Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Thailand.

Key Highlights of document

For countering terror

Strongly condemned the recent terror attacks in the region and called for strong measures for the states
that encourage, support and provide sanctuary to terrorists.
Called for early ratification of the BIMSTEC Convention on Cooperation in combating International
terrorism, criminal matters, transnational organized crime and drug trafficking.
Cooperation for Environment- Agreement on greater efforts towards the conservation of the mountain ecosystems, bio-diversity and agreed for implementation of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
Enhancing people to people contact- Proposed for establishment of BIMSTEC Buddhist Circuit and BIMSTEC
Heritage Sites, decided to expedite the establishment of the BIMSTEC Cultural Industries Commission and
BIMSTEC Cultural Industries Observatory in Bhutan.
Fisheries and Food Security- Cooperation in sustainable development of fisheries in Bay of Bengal region.
Eliminating Poverty- Reaffirmation to the commitment to effective implementation of the BIMSTEC Poverty
Plan of Action.
For Trade- Commitment to the early conclusion of BIMSTEC Free Trade Area negotiations was renewed
along with directing the Trade Negotiating Committee (TNC) and Working Groups to expedite the finalization
of its constituent agreements.
Exploring other areas of development-Agreement to explore ways to deepen cooperation in areas such as
aquacultures, hydrography, seabed mineral exploration, coastal shipping, eco-tourism and renewable ocean
energy with the objective of promoting holistic and sustainable development of the region.

Relevance of BIMSTEC

25

Earlier also, Bay of Bengal had emerged as a vehicle for regional cooperation as BBIN grouping - Bangladesh,
Bhutan, Nepal and India after Pakistans reluctance to sign on to the South Asian connectivity agreements at
the SAARC summit, 2014.
Now, with the collapse of the SAARC summit in Islamabad, 2016 the Bay of Bengal has turned into a zone of
regional cooperation.
Further, with rich history of maritime commerce across the Bay of Bengal and being high-end tourist
destination there exist enormous possibilities for regional economic cooperation among the members of the
BIMSTEC and SAARC (minus Pakistan).
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6.4. BRICS
6.4.1. EIGHTH BRICS SUMMIT
Why in news?

The Eighth BRICS Summit, held at Goa under the

theme "Building Responsive, Inclusive and
Collective Solutions.
The summit concluded with adaptation of Goa
Declaration. The ninth BRICS Summit will be
hosted by China in 2017.

Key Highlights of Goa declaration

About BRICS
BRICS is the acronym for an association of five major
emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa.
It was established in2009. Originally it was known as
BRIC before the inclusion of South Africa in 2011.
The first formal summit was held in Yekaterinburg,
Russia.
They are distinguished by their large, fast-growing
economies and significant influence on regional and
global affairs.

On world Security- Strongly condemned terrorism in

all its forms, committed to increase effectiveness of the UN counter terrorism framework. Also, called for need
for adaptation of Comprehensive Convention on Terrorism (CCIT) in
the UN General Assembly
On SDGs- Welcomed adoption of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development and its Sustainable Development Goals.
On UN Reforms- Reiterated urgent need to reforms of the United
Nations, including International UN Security Council to increase
representation of developing countries.
On New Development Bank- BRICS members were satisfied with
the approval of the first batch of loans by the New Development
Bank (NDB), particularly in renewable energy projects in BRICS countries.
BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement

CRA, established in 2015 by BRICS member nations is now operational and the central banks of the
grouping's members are "fully ready to carry out" the transactions.
It is a framework for the provision of support through liquidity and precautionary instruments in response to
actual or potential short-term balance of payments pressures.

6.4.2. BRICS RATI NG AGENCY

Key Facts

26

BRICS have agreed to set up an independent rating agency based on market-oriented principles in order to
further strengthen the global governance architecture.
BRICS institution-building is critical for transforming the global financial architecture to one based on the
principles of fairness and equity.
The BRICS countries have already set up New Development Bank (NDB), which became operational last year,
to meet funding requirements of the members.
There are concerns that the methodologies of the big three global agencies- S&P Global Ratings, Fitch
Ratings and Moodys Investors Service- is biased against developing countries, reflected by their poor rating
of these economies.
Despite having deep capital buffers, the ratings of multilateral banks like the BRICS-promoted NDB are
affected due to the parent countries' sovereign ratings.
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Further, under the present pricing model of rating agencies, the company or institution issuing bonds pays
the rating agency to be rated, known as issuer-pays model. This is an ethical issue of moral hazard in this
model of rating.

6.4.3 MOU BETWEEN EXIM BAN K, NEW DEVELOPMENT BANK

Why in news?

Union Cabinet signed a pact between Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) and BRICS-promoted New
Development Bank (NDB).
It is a non-binding umbrella agreement which aims at establishing a cooperation framework in accordance
with the national laws and regulations, along with skills transfer and knowledge sharing amongst the
signatories.

Benefits of MOU

It will enhance trade and economic relations among the BRICS countries.
It is strategically relevant for cooperation for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
It will help India play an enhanced international role.

6.5. NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT

Why in news?
The United Nations highest court rejected nuclear disarmament cases filed by the Pacific nation of the Marshall
Islands against Britain, India and Pakistan.
Reasons for rejection of the case
Marshall Islands had failed to prove that a legal dispute over disarmament existed between it and the three
nuclear powers. The court rejected it saying it that it lacks jurisdiction.
Arguments for Nuclear disarmament

27

Nuclear facts
There are 16,400 nuclear weapons on Earth
today.
Five states are declared as nuclear weapon
zones under the Non-Proliferation Treaty: US,
UK, France, Russia and China.
Many other countries have been suspected of
developing nuclear weapons including India,
Pakistan, Israel, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Syria and
Korea.
The only nuclear bombs ever to be used were
by the US against Japan in 1945.

Strategic excuse, most nations equipped with nuclear

weapons claim that they rely on them for strategic
defense, and they are vulnerable to various attacks
without these destructive weapons which is not true in
multipolar world.
Economically, nuclear weapons programs divert public
funds from health care, education, disaster relief and
other vital services. It is time to redirect money towards
meeting human needs.
Environmentally, nuclear weapons are the only devices
ever created that have the capacity to destroy all complex life forms on Earth.
Security concerns, nuclear weapons pose a direct and constant threat to people everywhere. Far from
keeping the peace, they breed fear and mistrust among nations.
Humanitarian Issues, the abolition of nuclear weapons is an urgent humanitarian necessity. Any use of
nuclear weapons would have catastrophic consequences.
Nuclear Terrorism There is danger that nuclear weapons in politically unstable countries like Pakistan or
Russia may fall into the hands of rogue terrorist elements.

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Indias Stand on Nuclear disarmament

India attaches the highest priority to nuclear disarmament and shares common concerns with the co-sponsors,
that the international community has not been able to take forward multilateral nuclear disarmament
negotiations.
Way Forward

Nuclear disarmament will create moral suasion for nuclear weapons states to disarm, and establish an
international norm prohibiting nuclear weapons development, possession and use.
The states having nuclear weapons should participate fully in the negotiations to come out with a better
policy formulation for the world.

6.5.1. DISARMAMENT A ND SECURITY COMMITTEE

Why in News?

Un general assembly's disarmament and security

committee voted for negotiations to begin next year
on a new international treaty to prohibit nuclear
weapons.
Four of the five UN Security Council nuclear powers
- Britain, France, Russia and the United States
voted against the draft resolution while China
abstained besides India and Pakistan.

Why is it important?

About NPT
Non-Proliferation Treaty or NPT, is an international
treaty whose objective is to prevent the spread of
nuclear weapons and weapons technology, to
promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of
nuclear energy, and to further the goal of
achieving nuclear disarmament and general and
complete disarmament.
It came into being in 1970. In 1995 it was extended
indefinitely.
The treaty recognises five permanent UNSC
members: the US, Russia, the UK, France and
China.
Four UN member states have never joined NPT:
India, Israel, Pakistan and South Sudan.

It moves diplomatic and legal action beyond the

veto power of nuclear-dependent governments that
want to keep their privileges under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The new multilateral treaty will for the first time provide a comprehensive approach to prohibiting activities
such as the use, deployment, production, transporting, stockpiling and financing of nuclear weapons.
It will also extend the NPT's nuclear disarmament obligation by creating a clear, unequivocal legal obligation
to eliminate existing arsenals that will apply to non-NPT as well as all NPT states.

6.6. MOU BETWEEN INDIA AND AARDO

Why in news?
The Cabinet approved MoU for the triennium 2015 2017,
between India and the African Asian Rural Development
Organization (AARDO).
About the MoU

About AARDO
The AARDO is an autonomous, interGovernmental organization established in
1962, headquarter in New Delhi.
AARDO currently has 31 countries of the
African - Asian Region under its fold.
India is one of the Founder Members of the
Organization and is the largest contributor
among the members.

The capacity building programs in the field of rural development will be organized every year during the
triennium at various Institutions in India.
The duration of each training programme shall be of two to three weeks.

Significance of MoU

28

It will promote cooperation among African and Asian countries.

It will help in the direction of eradicating thirst, hunger, illiteracy, disease and poverty in the region.
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6.7. MALDIVES QUITS COMMONWEALTH

Why in news?

The Maldives quit Commonwealth over allegation

of corruption and deteriorating human rights.
The country becomes the latest to leave the
Commonwealth after Gambia which quit in
October 2013.

Background

What is Commonwealth?
It an international association established in 1949
consisting of the UK together with states that were
previously part of the British Empire, and
dependencies.
Many countries from Africa, the Americas, Asia,
Europe and the Pacific have joined the
Commonwealth, current membership--52 counties.
Membership is based on free and equal voluntary
co-operation.
The last two countries to join The Commonwealth
are Rwanda and Mozambique.

Maldives government was put on notice thrice

and given six months to address concerns
including the detention and prosecution of opposition leaders.
Evidences were found of curbing fundamental rights, targeted persecution of opposition leaders and misuse
of state institutions (including the judiciary, legislature and the police) to restrict, crush and punish dissent.
Imprisonment of previous Maldives President was found illegal and the current president was ordered to
pay him compensation.

Reasons to quit as given by Maldives

The foreign ministry claimed that it was treated unjustly and unfairly by the organization.
It was used in the name of democracy promotion, to increase the Commonwealths own relevance and
leverage in international politics.
It argued that the decision to penalize the Maldives was unjustified, as the inquiry commission had found the
transfer of power in the Maldives was consistent with the constitutional provisions.

6.8. INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT

Why in news?
Burundi, South Africa and Gambia have quit ICC. Kenya and
Uganda now, intend to follow the suit.
Why is it important?

About ICC
It is the worlds first legal body with
permanent international jurisdiction to
prosecute genocide, crimes against
humanity and war crimes.
The 124-member ICC is based in The
Hague.

The withdrawal makes South Africa the first state to quit the
1998 Rome Statute that established the court.
South Africas proposed withdrawal from the International Criminal Court shows startling disregard for
justice from a country long seen as a global leader on accountability for victims of the gravest crimes.

ICC: Areas of Concern

30

Lack of Jurisdiction- ICC does not have jurisdiction over some of the most powerful nations in the world such
as US, Russia, China and Israel.
Narrow Mandate- It does not investigate rights violations of five permanent members of the UN Security
Council: the US, Great Britain, France, Russia and China.
No free authority- its authority is dependent on the cooperation of the international community.
Politicized Prosecution and Unaccountable Prosecutors despite having safeguards in place against politically
motivated prosecutions.
Ambiguity between State Sovereignty vs Universal Jurisdiction- Ambiguities arise in the relationship
between the legal and political underpinnings of the ICC because the Court is weakened by policies that
remain dominated by a sovereign model, despite operating principally within a universalist legal framework.
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What needs to be done?

There are many ambiguities in Rome Statute which needs to be removed.

Support from permanent members of the UN Security Council which holds veto powers over the cases of the
ICC.
Focus on increasing the capacity of the ICC to ensure that it can conduct its existing investigations and cases
effectively.
A clear action plan with proper funding mechanism.
Strengthening investigation and prosecution with transparency and accountability measures.
Support for participation and effective representation of the victims.

6.9. UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

Why in news?
Russia lost its bid to retain a seat on the UN
Human Rights Council due to allegations of war
crimes in relation to its policies in Syria.
Why is it important?
It was the first time since the UNHRCs creation a
decade ago that one of the Security Councils five
permanent members failed to be elected to the
council.
Possible Impacts after ousting Russia

About UN Human Rights Council

The council is 47-member body in based in Geneva.
It was created in 2006 to promote human rights globally.
Members of the council work to engage countries on
improving human rights.
They make decisions ranging from exposing violations to
recommending that the Security Council make a referral
to the International Criminal Court.
The council doesnt have the authority to take action but
can exert significant pressure on the violating country and
set up special rapporteurs with the mandate to
investigate and report human-rights abuses.

It is unlikely to create any significant change in Russian foreign policy toward Syria.
It may further fuel already tense relations between Russia and the West, particularly the United States,
and worsen the human rights situation in Russia itself.
Russias ousting from the UNHRC is inconsistent with Saudi Arabias successful reelection to the council.
Despite harsh criticism regarding Saudi Arabia's actions in the Yemeni civil war, the country kept its place on
the Human Rights Council. It underscores the use of human rights as a tool of Western intervention.

6.10. INDIAS SPEECH AT UNGA

Why in News?
It was considered as a well-crafted speech that touched on issues like SDGs as well as those of concern to India
like terrorism.
Significance of speech

Diplomacy over war- India diplomatically isolated Pakistan at UNGA meet. India gave a strong message
about intolerance of terrorist activities in the country.
No compromise over Kashmir- India unequivocally called for Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India.
Stand for rights violations in Baloch- India took Baloch agenda forward, thus explaining the rationale behind
its decision to grant political asylum to Brahmdagh Bugti. It was a clear signal to Pakistan that India will help
in making Balochistan an issue on the international map.
No talks until terror- India imposed no terror pre-conditions for dialogue for the country and urged the UN
to pass the India-proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT)- it provides a legal
framework making it imperative for all signatories to deny funds and safe havens to terrorist groups.
Priority to SDGs- Indias commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was appreciated for its
efforts Swacch bharat Mission, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Jan Dhan Yojana and skill India program.

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