International Relations: July 2024 UPSC Current Affairs | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

High Seas Treaty

Why in news?

Recently, India has decided to endorse and approve the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement also known as the High Seas Treaty. This global agreement aims to safeguard high seas marine biodiversity through international collaboration and will operate within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

What are High Seas?

About:

• According to the 1958 Geneva Convention on the High Seas, high seas are areas of the sea that are not part of any country's territorial waters or internal waters.
• The high seas lie beyond a country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and extend up to 200 nautical miles from the coastline.
• No single country is responsible for managing and protecting resources on the high seas.

Significance:

• The high seas cover over 64% of the world's oceans and 50% of the Earth's surface, playing a crucial role in marine life.
• They support a diverse range of species, regulate climate, store solar radiation, and provide essential resources for human survival.
• Despite their importance, only about 1% of the high seas are currently protected.

What is the High Seas Treaty?

About:

• The High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Agreement on Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, is a new international legal framework for maintaining the ecological health of the oceans.
• Negotiated in 2023, the treaty aims to reduce pollution, promote conservation, and ensure sustainable use of biodiversity and marine resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

Key Objectives:

• Conservation and Protection of Marine Ecology, including the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
• Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits of Marine Resources to ensure equal distribution of benefits among all countries.
• Mandatory Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for activities that could harm the marine ecosystem.
• Capacity Building and Transfer of Marine Technologies to aid developing countries in utilizing ocean resources.

What is the Significance of the High Seas Treaty?

Addressing the "Global Commons" Challenge:

• The high seas, covering a significant portion of the ocean, face challenges such as resource overexploitation and environmental degradation.
• This treaty is compared to the 2015 Paris Agreement and is crucial for protecting the oceans and promoting sustainable resource use.

Complementing UNCLOS:

• The High Seas Treaty aligns with UNCLOS principles but provides specific guidelines for implementation, especially regarding marine protected areas.
• It ensures equitable and sustainable use of marine resources, benefiting both developed and developing nations.

Combating Emerging Threats:

• The treaty addresses challenges like deep-sea mining, ocean acidification, and plastic pollution that endanger high seas ecosystems.

Strengthening International Cooperation:

• By establishing a robust institutional framework, the treaty enhances global cooperation in ocean governance.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):

• The successful implementation of the treaty aligns with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) goals.

Significance for India:

• Global Leadership: India's ratification of the treaty showcases its commitment to marine resource sustainability and global leadership in environmental conservation.
• Domestic Policy: The treaty compels India to align its maritime policies for responsible international cooperation.
• Economic Benefits: Provisions on benefit-sharing align with India's Blue Economy objectives, offering economic opportunities.
• Strategic Considerations: Ratifying the treaty enhances India's position in the Indo-Pacific region and supports sustainable maritime practices.

What are the Other Conventions related to Seas?

• Convention on Continental Shelf, 1964: Defines and delimits States' rights to explore and exploit natural resources on the continental shelf.
• Convention on Fishing and Conservation of Living Resources of the High Seas, 1966: Addresses conservation issues related to living resources of the high seas to prevent overexploitation.
• London Convention 1972: Promotes effective control of marine pollution, particularly through regulations on waste dumping.
• MARPOL Convention (1973): Covers various forms of marine pollution caused by ships, including oil spills and waste disposal.

Way Forward

• National governments should ratify the High Seas Treaty to ensure its successful implementation and monitor its effects on ocean ecosystems and human well-being.
• By adopting the treaty, India and other nations can promote a sustainable blue economy and protect marine resources for future generations.
• The treaty offers India an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to ocean conservation and play a leading role in global high seas protection.

India-Austria Relations

Why in News?

The Prime Minister of India paid an official visit to Austria, marking the 75th year of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Key Highlights of the Prime Minister's Visit to Austria

• Support for Indo-Pacific Stability: Reaffirmation of commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region
• Ensuring maritime security and adherence to international laws such as UNCLOS
• Political and Security Cooperation: Discussions on developments in Europe and West Asia
• Focus on restoring peace and adherence to international law
• Economic Collaboration: Agreement on future-oriented economic partnership in green and digital technologies
• Focus on infrastructure, renewable energy, and smart cities
• Climate Commitments: Collaboration on Austria's Hydrogen Strategy and India's Green Hydrogen Mission
• Acknowledgment of the importance of reducing climate change risks
• Technology and Innovation: Initiatives like Start-Up Bridge and exchanges for fostering innovation
• Recognition of the significance of digital technologies in industrial processes
• Cultural Exchanges: Promotion of yoga, Ayurveda, and other cultural exchanges
• Multilateral Cooperation: Commitment to multilateralism and support for comprehensive reforms
• Support for each other's candidature in international bodies
• Invitation to join the International Solar Alliance

India-Austria Relations History

• Political Relations: Establishment of diplomatic relations in 1949
• Significant role of India in Austria's negotiations for independence in 1955
• Economic Cooperation: Importance of Austria in India's relationship with Europe
• Details about the Indo-Austrian Joint Economic Commission
• Statistics on bilateral trade and key exports between the two countries
• Space: Launch of Austria's satellites from India
• Culture: Long-standing cultural relationship between India and Austria
• Examples of cultural exchanges and influences

Mains Question

 Discuss the evolution of India-Austria relations, highlighting the key milestones and areas of cooperation.

22nd India-Russia Annual Summit

Why in News?

The summit held in Moscow, brought together Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin to discuss a wide range of issues. The summit aimed to solidify the strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

What are the Key Highlights of the 22 India-Russia Annual Summit?

• President Vladimir Putin conferred Russia's highest civilian honour, the "Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle," on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle was established by Tsar Peter the Great in 1698 and reinstated in 1998, featuring a double-headed eagle emblem and a light blue silk moire ribbon.
• Prime Minister Modi was honored with this award for promoting the strategic partnership and friendly relations between Russia and India.
• Foreign leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and former Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev have also been honored with this award.

Economic Cooperation:

• A new bilateral trade target of USD 100 billion by 2030 was set, significantly higher than the previous target of USD 30 billion by 2025.
• This is mainly due to India's increased imports of Russian crude at a discount after the US and Europe imposed oil sanctions on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
• Agreement to prepare a comprehensive "Programme-2030" for developing promising areas of economic cooperation.
• India and the Eurasian Economic Union have commenced negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement on goods.

Defence and Technology:

• Transition from buyer-seller relationship to joint research, development, co-development, and joint production of advanced defence technology and systems.
• They also aim to encourage joint manufacturing of spare parts and components for Russian-origin arms and defence equipment in India under the Make-in-India program.
• They have agreed to establish a new Working Group on Technological Cooperation to discuss its provisions in the next meeting of Intergovernmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation.

Transport and Connectivity:

• The Sides are focused on developing stable and efficient transport corridors in Eurasia, including the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor and International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
• Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor is a sea link between ports on the east coast of India and ports in the far-east region of Russia was proposed in 2019.
• The INSTC is a multi-modal transportation route established in 2000 in St. Petersburg by Iran, Russia, and India to promote transportation cooperation among member states.

International Cooperation:

• Russia appreciated India's non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council (2021-22) and supported India's efforts in peacekeeping and counter-terrorism.
• India expressed full support for BRICS Chairship in 2024 under the theme "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security."
• Close cooperation in international forums such as the UN, G20, BRICS, and Shanghai Cooperation Organization is emphasized to reinvigorate multilateralism.

Global Issues:

• Commitment to combating climate change and achieving the goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Paris Agreement.
• Emphasis on the need for a multipolar world order and the development of an architecture of equal and indivisible regional security in the Eurasian space and the Indian and Pacific ocean regions.
• The leaders unequivocally condemned and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations.

Conclusion

The 22 India-Russia Annual Summit underscored the robust strategic partnership between the two nations, marked by significant diplomatic honors, ambitious economic targets. Despite global geopolitical challenges, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties across various sectors. The summit's outcomes reflect a shared vision for regional stability, economic growth, and mutual respect on the global stage, reinforcing the enduring nature of the Indo-Russian relationship amidst evolving international dynamics.

Mains Question

How have recent geopolitical shifts, such as the rise of multipolarity and increasing global strategic competition, influenced the strategic partnership between India and Russia?

SCO Summit 2024

Why in News?

Recently the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was concluded in Astana, Kazakhstan and brought together leaders from across the region. India played a prominent role, with the External Affairs Minister delivering the Prime Minister's message that highlighted combating terrorism and addressing climate change as key priorities.

What are the Key Highlights of SCO Summit 2024?

• New Membership: Belarus has become the 10th member state of the SCO. The Indian External Affairs Minister met with Belarusian counterpart to strengthen bilateral ties.
• Astana Declaration: The 24 SCO Summit in Astana adopted the and approved 25 strategic agreements on energy, security, trade, finance, and information security. The Council of Heads of State– Members of the SCO adopted the SCO Development Strategy until 2035, including resolutions on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism, anti-drug strategy, energy cooperation, economic development, and cooperation in protected areas and eco-tourism. Commitments also included signing a memorandum to combat illicit drug trafficking and an interaction plan on international information security issues.
• India-China Relations: India’s External Affairs Minister met the Chinese Foreign Minister on the margins of the SCO Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. Both ministers emphasised the need for "complete disengagement" of troops and restoring peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The two ministers agreed to expedite efforts through diplomatic and military channels to resolve remaining issues in Eastern Ladakh.
• Make in India and Global Economic Growth: 'Make in India' initiative was highlighted as it has the potential to become a significant engine for global economic growth. India expressed openness to partnering with other nations, particularly those in the Global South, for capacity building and economic development.
• Combat Terrorism: At the SCO summit, the External Affairs Minister of India urged the global community to isolate countries that harbour terrorists and condone terrorism. He emphasised the need to cross-border terrorism and highlighted the importance of combating terrorism as a foundational goal of the SCO. India has been proactive in enhancing its security-related cooperation within the SCO framework, particularly through the Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS), which focuses on security and defence issues. The Russian President emphasised the SCO's role in promoting a fair, multipolar world order.

What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation?

• Origins: The SCO originated from the "Shanghai Five," formed in 1996, consisting of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. It was created to address concerns about extremist religious groups and ethnic tensions following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991.
• Establishment: SCO was established on 15 June 2001, in Shanghai, adding Uzbekistan as a sixth member. Before the inclusion of Belarus, it had nine members: India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Afghanistan and Mongolia hold Observer Status.
• Significance: Addresses security issues in Asia with primarily Asian members. The SCO is significant because it is one of the few international organisations focused on security issues and primarily consists of Asian members. Russia and China view it as an alternative to the "Western" international order and are positioning themselves against US influence, alongside the BRICS grouping and seeking to counterbalance US influence. The SCO represents 40% of the world's population, and member countries contribute approximately over USD 23 trillion to global GDP.

Relevance of SCO for India

• Regional Cooperation: SCO membership allows India to enhance cooperation with Central Asian countries, improving relations since their formation in 1991. Facilitates communication with major regional actors on common security issues.
• Counter-Terrorism Efforts: The RATS is a significant permanent structure within the SCO. It has helped countries like India with counter-terrorism exercises, intelligence analysis, and sharing information on terrorist movements and drug trafficking.
• Challenges for India: While SCO membership enhances regional engagement, challenges in managing bilateral ties remain, influencing India's participation and stance on initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India faces challenges in the SCO including balancing ties with China and Russia, addressing regional security concerns, managing relations with Pakistan, ensuring economic benefits, maintaining strategic autonomy, dealing with the issue of sovereignty, and increasing bilateral trade with SCO countries.

Mains Question

Describe the SCO's role in addressing security challenges in Asia and its impact on regional stability.

FATF’s Mutual Evaluation Report on India

Why in news?

Recently, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issued a Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) on India, approved during their plenary session in Singapore. The MER report specifically assessed India's efforts in combating Money Laundering (ML), Terrorist Financing (TF), and proliferation financing.

What are the Highlights of the MER Report on India?

• India has been classified into the 'regular follow-up' category, joining Russia, France, Italy, and the UK, also designated in this category.
• Under the 'regular follow-up' category, India is required to submit a progress report on recommended actions by October 2027.
• FATF categorises member countries into four groups: regular follow-up, enhanced follow-up, grey list, and black list.
• Regular follow-up is the top category amongst 4, and only 5 countries, including India, have been placed in regular follow-up after the Mutual evaluation report.
• India has achieved strong results and a high level of technical compliance, yet it must address delays related to prosecutions for money laundering and terrorist financing.
• India's transition to a digital economy, facilitated by the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) Trinity and stricter cash transaction regulations, has successfully mitigated risks associated with ML, TF, and proceeds from crimes such as corruption and organised crime.

What is the Significance of the MER Report on the Indian Economy?

• The positive FATF evaluation demonstrates India's robust financial system, boosting international confidence.
• This could support initiatives like the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in attracting more international financial institutions.
• This improved reputation can lead to better credit ratings, potentially lowering borrowing costs for Indian entities in global markets.
• A trustworthy financial system is likely to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) in sectors like fintech and e-commerce where financial integrity is crucial.
• The report's endorsement supports the global expansion of India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI).

What are Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (ML/TF)?

• Money laundering is concealing or disguising the identity of illegally obtained proceeds so that they appear to have originated from legitimate sources.
• It is frequently a component of other, much more serious, crimes such as drug trafficking, robbery, or extortion.
• Terrorism financing is the act of providing financial support to terrorists or terrorist organizations to enable them to carry out terrorist acts or to benefit any terrorist or terrorist organization.
• While funds may come from criminal activities, they may also be derived from legitimate sources, for example, through salaries, revenue from legitimate business, or donations including through non-profit organizations.

What are the Concerns and Suggestions Suggested by FATF for India?

• Non-financial sectors may be vulnerable to money laundering and terrorist financing due to weaker oversight. For example, the real estate sector in India has been known to be susceptible to illicit financial activities.
• There is a need for stronger due diligence processes for high-value property transactions or improved reporting mechanisms for suspicious activities in non-financial sectors as well as enhance the capacity of India's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND) to analyze and disseminate high-quality financial intelligence.
• Prolonged legal processes may hinder the effectiveness of AML/CFT efforts and potentially allow criminals to evade justice.
• The growing use of virtual assets (cryptocurrencies) poses new challenges for AML/CFT regimes.

Mains Questions

Assess India's progress in enhancing its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime. What key challenges and measures should India prioritize to effectively address these identified issues?

Developments in India and Bangladesh Relations

Why in news?

Recently, during the visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister to India, the two countries agreed to begin a dialogue on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) paving the way for broader economic ties between the two neighboring economies. In 2022, both nations concluded a joint feasibility study on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

What were the Major Outcomes of the Recent Meeting?

• India and Bangladesh have agreed to commence work on a CEPA to enhance economic ties and foster trade and investment between the two nations.
• This agreement seeks to capitalize on the economic complementarity between the two fast-growing economies in South Asia.
• India has agreed to support the construction of an inland container port in Sirajganj, Bangladesh, facilitating better logistics and trade flow.
• Both countries agreed to initiate technical-level talks to renew the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty, focusing on flood management, early warning systems, and drinking water projects. This is significant given the 54 rivers shared between the two nations.
• A maritime cooperation pact was signed, reflecting their shared vision for the Indian Ocean and mutual interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Bangladesh’s decision to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative was welcomed by India.

How have been the Ties Between India-Bangladesh?

Historical Ties:

• The foundation of India’s relationship with Bangladesh was laid in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. India provided critical military and material support to assist Bangladesh in its fight for independence from Pakistan.
• Despite this, relations worsened within a few years due to military regimes, anti-India sentiment but stability returned with a change in regime in 1996 along with a treaty on Ganga water sharing.
• India and Bangladesh also successfully resolved long-pending issues, like the Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) in 2015 and a maritime dispute over territorial waters.

Economic Cooperation:

• Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has grown steadily over the last decade.
• Bangladesh is India's biggest trade partner in South Asia and India is the second biggest trade partner of Bangladesh in Asia.
• India is Bangladesh's largest export destination in Asia, with approx USD 2 billion of Bangladeshi exports to India in FY 2022-23.
• Since 2010, India has extended Lines of Credit to Bangladesh worth over USD 7 billion.

Energy:

• In the energy sector, Bangladesh imports nearly 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity from India.
• In 2018, Russia, Bangladesh and India signed a memorandum on cooperation in the implementation of the Rooppur Nuclear power plant project, Bangladesh's first nuclear power reactor.

Defence and Multilateral Cooperation:

• Bilateral Exercises: Exercise Sampriti (Army), Exercise Bongo Sagar (Navy)
• Platforms for Regional Cooperation: SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)

What are the Challenges and Potential Solutions in India-Bangladesh Relations?

Mains Question

Discuss the major challenges in India-Bangladesh relations. Suggest measures to address these issues to enhance bilateral cooperation and regional stability.

Simla Agreement 1972

Why in News?

Recently, the 52nd anniversary of the agreement, signed on July 1972 by then Prime Minister of India and Pakistan was observed.

What is Simla Agreement?

Context: 

• The agreement was a direct consequence of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, which resulted in the independence of Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan).
• India's military intervention played a crucial role in this conflict, significantly altering the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.

Key Negotiators: 

• Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan's President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
• Objectives of the Simla Agreement: 
• Resolution of Kashmir Issue: India aimed for a bilateral resolution to the Kashmir dispute, restraining Pakistan from internationalizing the issue.
• Normalization of Relations: Hoping for improved relations with Pakistan based on the new regional power balance.
• Avoiding Humiliation of Pakistan: India chose not to press for turning the ceasefire line into a permanent boundary to prevent further resentment and potential revanchism in Pakistan.

Key Provisions: 

• Conflict Resolution and Bilateralism: The agreement emphasized resolving all issues between India and Pakistan through peaceful means, primarily through bilateral negotiations.
• Status of Kashmir: One of the most contentious issues addressed was the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, established after the 1971 war.
• Withdrawal of Forces: It stipulated the withdrawal of forces to their respective sides of the international border, marking a significant step towards de-escalation.
• Future Diplomacy: The agreement also laid down provisions for future meetings between the heads of both governments and ongoing discussions to establish durable peace, normalize relations, and address humanitarian issues like the repatriation of prisoners of war.

Significance: 

• Geopolitical Tensions: The agreement remains relevant today as the Kashmir issue and broader Indo-Pak relations continue to be a flashpoint in South Asian geopolitics.
• Legal and Diplomatic Framework: It provides a legal framework for future discussions and negotiations between the two countries, despite its limitations and differing interpretations.

Criticism: 

• Unfulfilled Potential: The Simla Agreement fell short of its intended goals of fostering lasting peace and cooperation between India and Pakistan.
• Deep-seated mistrust and historical grievances continue to hinder progress.
• Nuclearization and Strategic Shifts: Both countries conducted nuclear tests post-1998, significantly altering the strategic calculus.

Long-term Impact: 

• Despite its intentions, the Simla Agreement did not lead to a sustained peace process or normalization of relations between India and Pakistan.
• International Perspective: The international community generally respects the Simla Agreement's bilateral approach to resolving issues between India and Pakistan.

How India-Pakistan Relations Have Been Over the Years?

• Partition and Independence (1947): Partition of British India into India and Pakistan in 1947 was a pivotal moment.
• Maharaja of Kashmir initially sought independence but eventually acceded to India due to Pakistan’s attack on Kashmir.
• Wars, Agreements and Terror: 1965 and 1971 Wars: 1965 war began with border skirmishes and escalated into a full-scale conflict.
• In 1971, India intervened in East Pakistan's struggle for independence, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
• Insurgency in Kashmir (1989): Pakistan supported a militant insurgency in Kashmir, leading to widespread violence and human rights abuses.
• Kargil War (1999): Pakistan-backed forces infiltrated Indian-controlled territory in Kargil, sparking a war that ended with an Indian military victory.
• Mumbai Attacks (2008): Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba militants launched coordinated attacks in Mumbai, killing 166 people.
• Current Situation (2023-2024): Continued political instability in Pakistan, coupled with ongoing militant activities and cross-border tensions, perpetuate the cycle of violence and distrust between the two nations.
• Geopolitical Dimensions: China's growing influence in the region, including its strategic partnership with Pakistan and territorial disputes with India, adds another layer of complexity to the Indo-Pakistani dynamic.

Conclusion

Overall, the India-Pakistan conflict remains a complex and volatile issue with deep historical roots, intertwined with geopolitical rivalries, domestic politics, and aspirations for regional dominance.Efforts towards lasting peace face significant challenges amid recurring episodes of violence, militant activities, and mutual distrust.While the Simla Agreement of 1972 represented a significant effort towards peace between India and Pakistan after the 1971 war, its limitations and controversies underscore the complex and enduring nature of Indo-Pakistani relations.Its legacy remains pivotal in understanding the dynamics and challenges of South Asian diplomacy and security.

Mains Question

Discuss the relevance of the Simla Agreement of 1972 in shaping contemporary India-Pakistan relations.

Tibet-China Dispute

Why in news?

Controversy over Tibet-China Dispute Act passed by US Congress. In June 2024, the US Congress passed the Resolve Tibet Act, calling for a peaceful resolution of the dispute over the status of the Himalayan state, which Beijing refers to as Xizang. US President Joe Biden has to sign the bill to make it an Act.

History of the Dispute over Tibet

• China invaded Tibet on October 7, 1950, without the awareness of most Tibetans.
• China's motivations included securing the southwestern border and accessing Tibet's natural resources.

China's Invasion of Tibet

• Chinese troops entered Tibet in 1950 amid tense negotiations between Lhasa and Beijing.
• The PLA captured Chamdo in October 1950, effectively subjugating Tibet.

Subjugation of Tibet

• Tibet was forced into an agreement with China in 1951, compromising its autonomy.
• Chinese violations of the agreement led to further oppression and reforms in Tibet.

National Uprising and Exile

• In 1959, a revolt erupted in Lhasa, leading to the Dalai Lama's exile.
• China has since maintained control over Tibet, suppressing dissent and altering its demographics.

Current Disputes and Actions

• The Resolve Tibet Act aims to enhance US support for Tibet and promote dialogue between China and the Dalai Lama.
• China has reacted by refusing to engage with Tibetan exiled officials and threatening measures against US involvement.

Significance for the US

• The US uses the Tibet dispute to regulate its relationship with China, similar to its approach to the Taiwan issue.
• The Act signifies US support for Tibetan rights and autonomy, affecting diplomatic ties with China.

India's Position

• India recognizes Tibet as part of China but supports Tibetan exiles, including the Dalai Lama.

US Delegation and Dalai Lama

• A US delegation met the Dalai Lama in India, prompting China's displeasure and concerns over separatist activities.
• The visit highlights US bipartisan support for Tibetan autonomy amid strained US-China relations.

30th Anniversary of ISA

Why in news?

Recently, the International Seabed Authority (ISA), an agency under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), celebrated its anniversary. It was established to oversee the exploration and utilization of non-living marine resources in international waters.

What are the Key Facts About ISA?

About ISA:

• It is an autonomous international organization established under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1994 Agreement relating to the implementation of Part XI of the UNCLOS.
• Headquarters: Kingston, Jamaica.
• Members: 168 Member States (including India) and the European Union.
• The area under its jurisdiction covers around 54% of the total area of the world's oceans.
• ISA ensures effective protection of the marine environment from the harmful effects of deep-seabed activities.

Mandate:

• Regulating the conduct of all exploration activities and exploitation of deep-sea minerals.
• Protection of the marine environment from harmful effects of deep seabed-related activities.
• Encourage marine scientific research.

India and ISA:

• On 18 January 2024, India submitted two applications for exploration in the international seabed area of the Indian Ocean.
• India holds two contracts for exploration in the Indian Ocean for polymetallic nodules, sulphides, polymetallic sulphides, and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts.