International Current Affairs MCQs

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India recently hosted the first BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi amidst significant developments in Myanmar. BIMSTEC, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization established in 1997 to promote shared growth among countries in the Bay of Bengal region. Initially founded as BIST-EC, it evolved into BIMSTEC with the inclusion of Myanmar, Nepal, and Bhutan by 2004.

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External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the long-standing friendly relations between India and the Marshall Islands during the MoU signing for Four Community Development Projects. He highlighted India’s responsibility to support Pacific Islands in sustainable development, addressing climate change, natural disasters, poverty alleviation, and healthcare. Dr. Jaishankar affirmed that the Pacific Islands are significant ocean countries and valued India’s partnership with them.

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India and the United Kingdom have launched the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) to boost collaboration in critical and emerging technologies (CET) and align with the India-UK Roadmap 2030. Coordinated by the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of both countries, the TSI will foster partnerships across telecoms, critical minerals, semiconductors, and quantum technology. The UK is a strategic partner for India, concerned about China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, with shared interests in defense technology and maritime security. Joint military exercises and a commitment to doubling bilateral trade by 2030 highlight their cooperation, alongside civil nuclear collaboration and support for India’s infrastructure projects.

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South Africa has enacted its first Climate Change Act to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, aligning its efforts with the Paris Climate Agreement. The law mandates emission limits for major polluters and requires local strategies to address climate change. A primary goal is to reduce emissions from coal, South Africa’s main energy source, making it one of the top carbon dioxide emitters. The Act establishes emissions targets for key sectors like agriculture, transportation, and industry, with ministries responsible for implementation. It introduces a carbon budget system, where large emitters face extra carbon taxes if they exceed set limits.

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During his visit to Vientiane, Laos, from 25 to 27 July 2024, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveiled the first postage stamp of Ram Lalla of Ayodhya. The event took place during ASEAN-related foreign minister meetings. Jaishankar, alongside Laos Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, released two sets of stamps themed “Celebrating the shared cultural heritage of Lao PDR and India.” One stamp depicted Ram Lalla’s idol from Ayodhya, while the other commemorated Lord Buddha from Luang Prabang, Laos’s ancient capital. Although predominantly Buddhist, Laos’s culture is deeply influenced by Hinduism, including the Ramayana, known locally as Ramakien.

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India is co-hosting a conference on online radicalization with the European Union (EU). The collaboration underscores the need to address online radicalization internationally. The EU is a significant political and economic union of 27 member states, mainly in Europe. With over 449 million people and contributing about one-sixth of the global GDP in 2022, the EU is a key global partner in this initiative.

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Pakistan successfully tested its Shaheen-II surface-to-surface ballistic missile. Shaheen-II is a medium-range, solid-fueled missile with an estimated range of 1,500–2,000 km. It is 17.2 m long, weighs 23,600 kg at launch, and can carry conventional or nuclear payloads. The missile’s accuracy is estimated at 350 m circular error probable (CEP), with a separating warhead designed to improve precision. It is transported and launched by a 6-axle transporter erector launcher (TEL). Ballistic missiles follow a rocket-powered, then unpowered, trajectory to deliver payloads, including conventional or nuclear munitions.

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Australia has introduced a “Right to Disconnect” rule to help employees avoid work-related communications outside of their regular hours. This law allows workers to ignore calls and messages from employers after work without facing punishment. While employers can still contact employees after hours, the law ensures that employees are not obligated to respond unless their refusal is deemed unreasonable. India does not have similar laws, leaving employees there more exposed to pressure to work beyond their regular hours.

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Dhulikhel, Nepal, is the first city in the country to be recognized as a “healthy city” by the World Health Organization (WHO). Dhulikhel is located in the Kavrepalanchok district, about 18 miles from Kathmandu. The WHO monitored Dhulikhel for two years before making the announcement in August 2024. The WHO’s decision was based on factors like environmental improvements, progress in primary health care, and access to health for poor citizens. Dhulikhel was also named the second healthiest city in Asia.

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The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) signed an MoU with the UAE Accountability Authority to enhance collaboration between the two countries in public sector auditing. CAG of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, emphasized the shared values and strong ties between India and the UAE, and the MoU will create opportunities for learning and cooperation. The partnership focuses on knowledge exchange, capacity building, and best practices in public sector auditing. UAE Accountability Authority President, Humaid Obaid Khalifa, highlighted the MoU’s role in improving governance and accountability in both nations. This agreement strengthens audit cooperation, promoting transparency and efficiency in government operations.