International Current Affairs

 

International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

19th G20 Summit Concludes; Next Summit in 2025 in South Africa

The 19th G20 Summit concluded on 19 November 2024, with Brazil’s President Lula Da Silva handing over the presidency to South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa. President Lula highlighted key initiatives during Brazil’s presidency, including:

  1. Launching the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
  2. Introducing a debate on taxing and integrating climate change into the agendas of Finance Ministries and Central Banks.
  3. Approving the first multilateral document on the bioeconomy.
  4. Establishing a Women’s Empowerment Working Group and proposing a new Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) to promote racial equality.
  5. Committing to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and forming a coalition for local production of vaccines and medicines.
  6. Advocating reforms to make global governance more representative and engaging society through the G20 Social platform.

The summit also focused on addressing health challenges through WHO investment rounds, fostering cooperation in open innovation, and creating a task force for the governance of artificial intelligence.

President Lula noted that South Africa’s presidency would mark the completion of a leadership cycle in which all G20 member countries will have led the group at least once. The event represented the penultimate stage of a four-year sequence of G20 leadership by developing countries: Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa.

19th G20 Summit, leaders adopt Rio de Janeiro Declaration

At the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, leaders adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration on November 18, 2024. The declaration emphasized addressing global challenges such as climate change, conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth. Key highlights include:

  1. UN Security Council Reforms: A call to expand its composition to improve representation of underrepresented regions and groups.
  2. Condemnation of Terrorism: Firm opposition to all forms of terrorism.
  3. Humanitarian Concerns: Urged increased humanitarian aid and civilian protection in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.
  4. Conflict Resolution: Advocated for peaceful resolutions and diplomatic solutions to crises.
  5. Climate Commitments: Reaffirmed dedication to multilateralism, progress under the UNFCCC, and the Paris Agreement.

The declaration highlights the G20’s role in fostering global cooperation and addressing pressing crises.

Sri Lanka’s ruling National People’s Power (NPP) party, secured a landslide victory in Parliamentary Elections

Sri Lanka’s ruling National People’s Power (NPP) party, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, secured a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections, winning 159 out of 225 seats (approximately 63% of the votes). This marks a dramatic shift in Sri Lankan politics, as the NPP previously held only three seats.

The main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, led by Sajith Premadasa, won 40 seats, while Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi secured 8 seats. The New Democratic Front, aligned with former President Ranil Wickremasinghe, faced a major setback with only 5 seats.

This victory, following the 2022 economic crisis and the ousting of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is seen as a strong mandate for President Dissanayake’s promises to combat corruption, recover stolen assets, and implement reforms to address poverty and economic challenges. The NPP’s leftist coalition has gained significant support, including from minority communities.

PM Modi is on a six-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16 to 21, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a six-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana from November 16 to 21, 2024, strengthening India’s bilateral and multilateral relations.

  • Nigeria (Nov 16–17):
    PM Modi’s visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. He will hold talks with Nigerian leadership to review the strategic partnership, focusing on economic, energy, and defense collaboration. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007, with over 200 Indian companies investing $27 billion in Nigeria. He will also engage with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria.
  • Brazil (Nov 18):
    PM Modi will attend the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. As part of the G20 Troika with Brazil and South Africa, he will discuss global issues, build on India’s leadership in the G20, and hold bilateral meetings with world leaders.
  • Guyana (Nov 19–21):
    PM Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian Prime Minister since 1968. He will meet Guyana’s President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, address the Guyanese Parliament, and interact with the Indian diaspora. He will also participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit in Georgetown to deepen ties with the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM), focusing on economic integration and cooperation.

Inauguration of first trilateral power transaction between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh

The first trilateral power transaction between Nepal, India, and Bangladesh was inaugurated on November 15, 2024, via the Indian power grid. The event was virtually inaugurated by India’s Power Minister Manohar Lal, Bangladesh’s Power Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, and Nepal’s Energy Minister Dipak Khadka. This historic power flow of up to 40 MW from Nepal to Bangladesh marks a significant milestone in sub-regional energy cooperation.

The initiative, initially announced during Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to India last year, highlights a commitment to enhancing sub-regional connectivity and mutual economic benefits. The foundation was laid with a tripartite agreement between NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam, Nepal Electricity Authority, and Bangladesh Power Development Board, signed on October 3, 2024. This collaboration is expected to strengthen power sector interlinkages in the region.

Dr. Navin Ramgoolam return as Prime Minister in Mauritius

On November 11, 2024, Dr. Navin Ramgoolam secured a historic electoral victory in Mauritius, marking his return as the Prime Minister for the third time. This victory came after the incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth conceded defeat in the parliamentary elections held on November 10, 2024.

Dr. Ramgoolam, who previously served as Prime Minister from 1995 to 2000 and from 2005 to 2014, is the son of Mauritius’ first Prime Minister, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam. His win is seen as a significant shift in the political landscape of Mauritius, with his party, the Alliance of Change, gaining a majority in the parliament.

29th annual UN COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 to 22 November

The 29th UN Climate Change Conference, or COP29, began in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 11, 2024. This year, known as the “Finance COP,” the main focus is on setting a new financial target to help countries most affected by climate change. Over two weeks, delegates from almost 200 countries, including India, will work to advance the Paris Agreement goals—limiting global warming, boosting climate resilience, and supporting developing nations.

The success of COP29 will depend largely on whether countries can agree on a strong new climate finance goal that meets the needs of developing countries. For India and other Global South countries, access to finance, technology, and energy resources is crucial for achieving climate goals and protecting vulnerable communities. India has been active in shaping the global climate finance system to ensure funding is available for both reducing emissions and adapting to climate impacts.

Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election

On November 6, 2024, Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, securing 277 electoral votes, surpassing the required 270 and defeating Democrat Kamala Harris. His victory, clinched with a key win in Wisconsin and other swing states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, and North Carolina, sparked celebrations among Republicans as Trump became the 47th U.S. President.

In his victory speech from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump pledged to focus on ending global conflicts, emphasizing a commitment to “stop wars, not start them.” He also reiterated his immigration policy stance, advocating for stricter border control and legal immigration pathways, and expressed gratitude to his supporters, including immigrant communities. His running mate, JD Vance, praised Trump’s win as a historic political comeback.

World leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, congratulated Trump on his win through social media platform X. Italian President Giorgia Meloni and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also extended congratulations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is visiting India for three days

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is visiting India for three days. This is his first visit to India, and the first visit by a Spanish Prime Minister in 18 years. His wife, Begona Gomez, is with him on this trip.

Prime Minister Sanchez will meet with India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, for official talks. Together, they will open the TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara on October 28, 2024. This new facility will produce C-295 military aircraft and is India’s first private assembly line for military planes. It is part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, created through a partnership between Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus Spain.

During his visit, Sanchez will also meet with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar. He will then travel to Mumbai to speak with leaders from business, think tanks, and the film industry. India and Spain are also expected to sign several agreements to strengthen their relationship.

2024 BRICS Summit : Key points from the Kazan declaration

The 2024 BRICS Summit, held in Kazan, Russia from October 22 to 24, focused on various global issues. Key points from the Kazan declaration include:

  1. Ukraine: BRICS emphasized the need for adherence to the UN Charter and supported peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
  2. Middle East: The group expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, condemning Israeli military actions in Gaza, West Bank, and Southern Lebanon, and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
  3. Western Sanctions: BRICS criticized unilateral sanctions, highlighting their negative impact on the global economy and sustainable development goals.
  4. International Financial System: They advocated for reforms to make the global financial architecture more inclusive and equitable.
  5. BRICS Grain Exchange: A new initiative was launched for a commodities trading platform, starting with grain, aimed at expanding to other agricultural sectors.
  6. Cross-Border Payment System: BRICS welcomed the use of local currencies and development of a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive cross-border payment system.
  7. BRICS Clear Depository: The group discussed establishing an independent cross-border settlement and depository infrastructure to support financial market resilience.
  8. Financial Innovation: They encouraged interbank cooperation to promote innovative financing solutions, including transactions in local currencies.
  9. IMF and G20: BRICS reaffirmed their support for a well-resourced IMF and emphasized the importance of the G20 for global economic cooperation.
  10. Pandemic Prevention: They supported initiatives for early warning systems and vaccine research to prevent future pandemics.
  11. Big Cats Conservation: BRICS acknowledged India’s initiative to create an International Big Cats Alliance for the preservation of endangered big cats.

International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global coalition launched by India in April 2023 to conserve the world’s seven principal big cat species: tigers, lions, snow leopards, leopards, jaguars, pumas, and cheetahs. The initiative aims to prevent illegal wildlife trade, promote natural habitat conservation, and mobilize resources for protection efforts..

Luong Cuong elected as Vietnam’s new President

Luong Cuong, a senior member of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), has been elected as Vietnam’s new President during the 8th session of the 15th National Assembly (NA). Cuong, who is a permanent member of the CPV Central Committee Secretariat, was elected by 440 deputies, representing 91.67% of the total.

He replaces To Lam, who had also held the role of general secretary of the Communist Party. Although the presidency is primarily ceremonial in Vietnam, Cuong pledged to fulfill his responsibilities to the party, state, and people after taking the oath.

16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024

The 16th BRICS Summit was held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024, with leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa in attendance. The summit also welcomed new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

Key discussions centered on economic cooperation, trade in national currencies, sustainable development, and digital inclusion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to these goals and explored enhancing bilateral ties. Leaders also addressed global economic challenges, climate change, and innovation, emphasizing collaboration among emerging economies.

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar killed in Rafah, during encounter with Israeli forces

Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar has been killed in Rafah, southern Gaza, during a chance encounter with Israeli forces. Sinwar, dressed in combat gear, was found dead in the rubble after a tank shell struck the building. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the military success but emphasized that the war is not yet over. While Hamas has not officially confirmed Sinwar’s death, he was considered a key figure behind the October 7 attacks on Israel.

Sinwar, aged 61 and known as Abu Ibrahim, became the head of Hamas’ political bureau after Ismail Haniyeh was killed in July this year. This follows Israel’s earlier killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah through airstrikes in Lebanon.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the U.S. will step up efforts to end the Gaza war in light of Sinwar’s apparent death. Blinken also referenced Sinwar’s previous refusal to resolve the conflict diplomatically. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Netanyahu discussed working together to secure the release of hostages.

India to Join International Energy Efficiency Hub by signing the Letter of Intent

On 3 October 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the signing of a letter of intent for India to join the International Energy Efficiency Hub, a global platform aimed at fostering collaboration and promoting energy efficiency. This decision aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, marking a significant step towards a low-carbon economy and improved energy security.

As of July 2024, 16 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, are members of the Hub.

Claudia Sheinbaum sworn in as Mexico’s first woman President

On October 1, 2024, Claudia Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s first female president, succeeding Andrés Manuel López Obrador. The 62-year-old climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City took office for a six-year term, lasting until 2030.

Sheinbaum was elected in the June 2 elections, winning nearly 58% of the vote. In her inauguration speech, she recognized the struggles of women in Mexico and pledged to maintain the country’s daily oil production at 1.8 million barrels. This historic moment marks a new chapter in the world’s most populous Spanish-speaking nation.

Mark Rutte, the former Prime Minister of the Netherlands, became the Secretary-General of NATO

On October 1, 2024, Mark Rutte, the former Prime Minister of the Netherlands, became the Secretary-General of NATO, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg, who held the position for ten years.

During the handover ceremony in Brussels, Rutte emphasized key priorities for NATO, such as strengthening its defenses, boosting support for Ukraine, and enhancing global partnerships. His leadership comes at a crucial time due to ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions, with his experience as a consensus-builder and commitment to transatlantic relations being seen as valuable in addressing modern security challenges.

Hezbollah Leader Hassan Nasrallah Killed in Israeli Airstrike

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut on September 28, 2024. Nasrallah, who had led the Iran-backed militant group for over three decades, was a significant figure in Middle Eastern politics and conflicts. The airstrike targeted Hezbollah’s central headquarters, resulting in the deaths of several key leaders, including Nasrallah.

Under Nasrallah’s leadership, Hezbollah evolved from a militia into a powerful political and military force in Lebanon, with substantial influence across the region.

India Rises to 39th Place in Global Innovation Index 2024

India has moved up to 39th place among 133 global economies in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024. Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that India ranks 1st among 10 economies in Central and Southern Asia, and also among lower-middle-income economies. India ranks 4th in the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Science & Technology Cluster Ranking, with cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai listed among the world’s top 100 clusters.

India’s rise is significant, as it was ranked 81st in 2015. The GII evaluates innovation in 133 countries and tracks global trends, helping governments assess their innovation performance. The top five most innovative countries in 2024 are Switzerland, Sweden, the US, Singapore, and the UK.

The Global Innovation Index (GII), which started in 2007 by INSEAD, a business school, and World Business, a British magazine, provides a comprehensive measure of global innovation.

Asia Power Index 2024 : India has emerged as the third most powerful nation in Asia, surpassing Japan

India has emerged as the third most powerful nation in Asia, surpassing Japan in the 2024 Asia Power Index. This achievement is driven by a 4.2-point rise in India’s economic capability, fueled by strong post-COVID economic growth.

Additionally, India’s score in future resources increased by 8.2 points, reflecting the potential of its youthful population to deliver a demographic dividend in the future. India’s Diplomatic Influence also grew, with increased diplomatic activity in 2023, helping India rise in the rankings.

The Asia Power Index assesses 27 countries based on their ability to shape the regional and global environment.

PM Modi addressed the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2024, in New York. He spoke on several important global issues, emphasizing India’s role in the world.

Key points from his speech:

  1. Global Cooperation: Modi stressed the need for countries to work together and called for reforms in international organizations to make them more effective.
  2. Climate Change: He talked about India’s commitment to fighting climate change, focusing on renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.
  3. Terrorism: Modi condemned terrorism and called for a united effort to fight it globally.
  4. Technology: He highlighted India’s progress in digital technology and called for ethical guidelines on its use worldwide.
  5. Health: Modi discussed India’s contributions to vaccine production during COVID-19 and called for stronger global health systems.
  6. Economic Growth: He promoted India’s economic progress and invited global businesses to invest in India, showcasing its potential in manufacturing and innovation.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake elected new President of Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the National People’s Power party, won the Presidential election on September 22, 2024. He defeated Sajith Premadasa from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya party. The current President, Ranil Wickremasinghe, lost the election.

Dissanayake received 5.6 million votes (42.3%), which is a big improvement from the 3% he got in the 2019 election. Premadasa came second with 32.8% of the votes.

It was the first time in the Sri Lank History history that the presidential race was decided by a second tally of votes after the top two candidates failed to win the mandatory 50% of votes to be declared winner. Under the electoral system, voters cast three preferential votes for their chosen candidates. If no candidate wins 50% in the first count, a second tally determines the winner between the top two candidates, using the preferential votes cast.

PM Modi attends the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, on 21 September 2024. The summit was hosted by US President Joe Biden. The Prime Ministers of Australia, Anthony Albanese, and Japan, Fumio Kishida, also joined the meeting.

About the QUAD

The Quad is a group of four countries: India, Australia, Japan, and the US. They work together to keep the Indo-Pacific region open, free, and peaceful. Their efforts help support development and achieve important global goals.

The Quad meets through meetings, summits, and joint military exercises. The main goal is to protect the sea routes in the Indo-Pacific from military or political control. Japan’s Prime Minister first suggested the idea in 2007, but the group became active again in 2017. In 2021, they held their first leaders’ meeting online.

India will host the next (7th) Quad Leaders’ Summit in 2025.

Jordon becomes first Leprosy free country

On 19 September 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Jordan as the first country to eliminate leprosy. This is an important achievement in global health.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Jordan for its efforts to stop the disease. Jordan has not had any local cases of leprosy in over 20 years, confirmed by an independent assessment. However, leprosy is still found in more than 120 countries, with over 200,000 new cases reported each year.

Explosions in Lebanon: Pagers and Radios Targeted

On September 17, 2024, a series of explosions in Lebanon targeted handheld pagers and radios used by Hezbollah members. The blasts occurred in places like Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, killing at least 20 people and injuring over 450.

Hezbollah blamed Israel, but Israel has not responded. This has increased tensions, especially as Israel and Hezbollah have been engaged in cross-border warfare since the Gaza conflict escalated last October.

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi on Official Visit to India on September 9 and 10

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on September 9, 2024, during the Crown Prince’s two-day official visit to India (September 9 and 10). This was the Crown Prince’s first official visit to India as Crown Prince, and he received a ceremonial Guard of Honour upon arrival.

Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, including one on Nuclear Cooperation for nuclear power plant maintenance and mutual investments.

  • An agreement for the long-term supply of 1 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) of LNG was signed, strengthening India’s energy security.
  • Another MoU between ADNOC and Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve Ltd. (ISPRL) was signed to expand crude storage collaboration.
  • Urja Bharat, a joint venture of IOCL and Bharat Petro Resources Ltd, signed a Production Concession Agreement with ADNOC for Abu Dhabi Onshore Block 1, marking the first such agreement for an Indian company in the UAE.
  • Cooperation in the food sector will be enhanced through the MoU on Food Parks in Ahmedabad, with the project beginning in Q2 2025.

The Crown Prince will participate in the India-UAE Business Forum in Mumbai, where the India-UAE Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) and the MAITRI interface will be soft-launched.

Global Cooperative Conference from 25th to 30th November in New Delhi

India will host the first Global Cooperative Conference from 25th to 30th November in New Delhi. Dr. Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, announced the conference during a media briefing. The conference will focus on innovative solutions, technologies, and best practices for the cooperative movement.

This is the first time in the 130-year history of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) that the conference will be held in India. Jeroen Douglas, Director General of the ICA, noted that there are 3 million cooperatives worldwide, with India leading in terms of the highest number of cooperatives.

Michel Barnier is new Prime Minister of France

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Michel Barnier as Prime Minister on 5 September 2024. He is a former chief Brexit negotiator of the European Union. He is a veteran member of the right-wing Republicans party.

The appointment follows a political deadlock after France’s snap elections. Barnier’s main task is to form a unified government. The French National Assembly is divided into three large political blocs, with no clear majority.

Q.: Who has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of France in September 2024?

a) Emmanuel Macron
b) Michel Barnier
c) Édouard Philippe
d) Jean Castex

Answer: b) Michel Barnier
French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Michel Barnier as Prime Minister on 5 September 2024.

PM Modi Visit to Kyiv: A Diplomatic Push for Peace Talks Amid Ukraine-Russia Conflict

On 23 August 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv, marking the first visit by an Indian leader to Ukraine since its independence in 1991.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts, with Modi emphasizing India’s commitment to peaceful resolution through dialogue. The visit is part of Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts to involve non-Western nations in potential settlement talks with Russia.

Q.: Who was the President of Ukraine during PM Modi’s visit in August 2024?

a) Viktor Yanukovych
b) Petro Poroshenko
c) Volodymyr Zelensky
d) Oleksii Reznikov

Answer: c) Volodymyr Zelensky
On 23 August 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kyiv. Prime Minister Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed peace efforts.

Voice of Global South Summit 2024 was hosted by India on August 17, 2024

The Voice of Global South Summit 2024 was hosted by India on August 17, 2024, with the theme “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future.” The summit aimed to amplify the voices of developing nations and address their unique challenges and aspirations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s focus on cooperation in infrastructure, digital, and energy sectors to empower developing countries.

The summit provided a platform for discussing shared challenges like conflicts, food and energy security crises, and climate change, which disproportionately affect developing nations.

About the Voice of Global South

The Voice of Global South initiative was launched by India, with the first summit held on January 12-13, 2023.

Member Countries: The initiative includes over 100 countries from the Global South across various regions:

  • Latin America & Caribbean: 29 countries
  • Africa: 47 countries
  • Europe: 7 countries
  • Asia: 31 countries
  • Oceania: 11 countries

Q.: How many countries from the Global South are part of the Voice of Global South initiative?

a) Over 50 countries
b) Over 75 countries
c) Over 100 countries
d) Over 150 countries

Answer: c) Over 100 countries
The Voice of Global South initiative was launched by India, with the first summit held on January 12-13, 2023. The initiative includes over 100 countries from the Global South across various regions.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra elected as Thailand’s new Prime Minister

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old leader of the Pheu Thai party and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has been elected as Thailand’s new prime minister.

She is the youngest person to hold this position in the country. Her election follows the removal of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin by the Constitutional Court for a serious ethical breach related to bribery.

Paetongtarn is the third member of the Shinawatra family to become prime minister, after her father and her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra.

The Constitutional Court also recently dissolved the Move Forward party, which had won the last general election but was prevented from assuming power.

Q.: Who was elected as Thailand’s new prime minister at the age of 37?

a) Yingluck Shinawatra
b) Srettha Thavisin
c) Paetongtarn Shinawatra
d) Thaksin Shinawatra

Ans : c) Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the 37-year-old leader of the Pheu Thai party and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has been elected as Thailand’s new prime minister.

Scroll to Top