Summits and Conferences in Current Affairs MCQs

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The inaugural Summit on Clean Cooking in Africa, held in Paris on May 14, 2024, drew over 1,000 delegates from nearly 60 countries. The summit highlighted the critical health and environmental impacts of traditional cooking methods used by over a billion Africans. Despite progress in China, India, and Latin America, clean cooking remains elusive in Africa, where over 70% of people in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana rely on biomass.

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At the 33rd Arab League Summit in Manama, leaders emphasized the rapprochement process a year after Syria’s reinstatement. UN chief urged for Gaza ceasefire and regional unity. The League of Arab States, established in 1945 in Cairo, aims to strengthen relations, coordinate policies, and promote cooperation among its 22 member states. India holds observer status.

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The SIDS4 conference, held from May 27-30, 2024, gathered over 3,000 delegates to develop the “Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS” (ABAS), aiming for resilient prosperity in Small Island Developing States. The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) announced funding through its Infrastructure for Resilient Island States Programme (IRIS) at the United Nations 4th International Conference on SIDS in Antigua and Barbuda.

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The Centre for Science and Environment urges developed nations to meet climate finance commitments ahead of the 29th UNFCCC Conference of Parties (COP). The 60th meeting of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB60) in Bonn, Germany, from June 3-13, 2024, will gather UNFCCC signatories, including national delegates and civil society. With around 6,000 participants, SB60 marks a pivotal moment between CoP28 and CoP29, setting the stage for future climate negotiations.

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The 21st Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia-Pacific’s premier defense summit, concluded on 2 June 2024 in Singapore. Held at the Shangri-La Hotel from 31 May to 2 June, it gathered over 100 delegates worldwide. Organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and the Singapore government, the summit addresses Asia-Pacific security challenges, fostering discussions among defense ministers, officials, and NGOs. The dialogue aims to create a utopian environment for regional security solutions.

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India will host the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) next year, marking a return after 42 years. Established in 1945, IATA represents the global airline industry, advocating for its interests and setting industry standards to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability. With 330 member airlines, including leading passenger and cargo carriers, IATA plays a pivotal role in shaping the aviation sector. Headquarters are located in Montreal, Canada.

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The inaugural meeting of the Joint Task Force on Investment (JTFI) between India and Qatar took place in New Delhi, co-chaired by officials from both nations. The JTFI aims to enhance investment cooperation and bilateral relations, focusing on sectors like infrastructure, energy, and technology. It highlights the shared commitment to inclusive development and mutual growth, reinforcing the strong economic ties between India and Qatar based on shared values and common objectives.

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Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar represented India at the East Asia Summit (EAS SOM) and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF SOM) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on June 7-8, 2024. Key issues discussed included Indo-Pacific peace, maritime security, and regional conflicts. Mazumdar emphasized EAS’s role in promoting stability and highlighted India’s maritime security initiatives. He also held bilateral meetings with counterparts from several countries, discussing regional cooperation and shared perspectives.

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June 13 is observed as International Fatty Liver Day with the theme ‘Act Now, Screen Today’. Fatty liver disease, or steatosis, involves the accumulation of excessive fat in liver cells, which can lead to inflammation and serious complications if untreated. It can be caused by alcohol abuse (alcoholic steatohepatitis) or other factors (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH). Awareness and early screening are crucial to prevent liver damage and manage this common global health issue.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the G7 Outreach session in Borgo Egnazia, Italy, on June 14, discussing AI, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Invited by Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, Modi met leaders including Emmanuel Macron, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Rishi Sunak. The 50th G7 Summit ran from June 13-15 in Apulia, Italy.