This week’s headline features a story from Europe: 

The 10th meeting of the India-EU Energy Panel was held on November 21, 2024, in Brussels. It was co-chaired by Shri Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs and Ms. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director-General for Energy, European Commission. The Energy Panel focussed on the energy transition priorities of the two sides and took stock of the achievements of the 2nd Phase of the India-EU Clean Energy and Climate Partnership 2021-2024. 

Europe:  India and the European Union (EU) have finalised an extensive roadmap for the green hydrogen sector that includes development of infrastructure, technology cooperation and boosting supply chains. The two sides deliberated on ways to increase cooperation in the sector at the 10th meeting of the India-EU Energy Panel held on 21st in Brussels. 

North America: The Indo-US Bridging RARE Summit 2024, held in New Delhi, focused on rare diseases, orphan drug trials, and cross-border collaboration. It highlighted India's progress in healthcare, the National Policy for Rare Diseases, and the importance of global cooperation in treatment development. 

South America: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with the leaders of Brazil, Argentina, and Chile during the G20 Summit. The meetings focused on strengthening trade relations, exploring opportunities in sectors like energy, defence, and technology, and expanding collaboration in areas of mutual interest 

Asia: India and Japan have discussed a proposed defence pact to increase military cooperation and technological ties, focusing on interoperability and co-development of military hardware. The agreement would allow reciprocal use of military bases and increase collaboration in defence manufacturing and exercises. 

Australia: Australia and India have signed an arrangement enabling air-to-air refuelling between the Royal Australian Air Force and the Indian Armed Forces. This agreement enhances their defence cooperation, improving interoperability and increasing India's operational reach in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Africa: Leaders from the G20 Troika - India, Brazil, and South Africa released a joint declaration emphasizing the role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and AI in achieving inclusive and sustainable development. They highlighted the potential of these technologies to transform lives, create jobs, and improve healthcare and education outcomes, particularly in the context of sluggish global economic growth.