International Current Affairs

 

International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

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.

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the Head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government

On 8 August 2024, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amid violent protests.

Born on 28 June 1940, Mr Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi entrepreneur, banker, and economist. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance.

As chief adviser, Yunus will oversee the interim government responsible for organizing new elections in Bangladesh, which has a population of 170 million. The protests that led to Hasina’s ousting originated from a student-led movement against quotas in government jobs and escalated due to harsh economic conditions and political repression. The government’s response faced global criticism, although officials denied allegations of excessive force.

Q.: Who was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government on 8 August 2024?

A) Sheikh Hasina
B) Muhammad Yunus
C) Khaleda Zia
D) Abdul Hamid

Answer: B) Muhammad Yunus
On 8 August 2024, Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s caretaker government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amid violent protests.

Bangladesh president dissolves parliament, frees former PM Begum Khaleda Zia

On August 7, 2024, Bangladesh’s president dissolved parliament, paving the way for an interim government and new elections following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and flight after a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising. President Mohammed Shahabuddin also announced the release of opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from house arrest.

The student protests, sparked by opposition to public sector job quotas favoring families of veterans from the 1971 independence war, led to widespread violence with about 300 deaths and thousands injured since July. The unrest climaxed with the storming and looting of the prime minister’s residence.

Following the dissolution of parliament, Dhaka saw relative peace with businesses and schools remaining closed. Garment factories, crucial to the economy, were set to reopen on Wednesday.

The decision to dissolve parliament came after consultations with military leaders, political figures, and civil society representatives. Ongoing negotiations are aimed at forming the interim government, which will organize upcoming elections.

Hasina’s departure marked the end of her 15-year second term and 20 years of leadership over the past 30 years, a tenure marked by a long-standing feud with rival Zia, both inheriting their political movements from their assassinated fathers.

Q.: The President of Bangladesh freed which former Prime Minister from house arrest following the dissolution of parliament on August 7, 2024?

A) Sheikh Hasina
B) Ziaur Rahman
C) Begum Khaleda Zia
D) Mohammed Shahabuddin

Answer: C) Begum Khaleda Zia
On August 7, 2024, Bangladesh’s president dissolved parliament and announced the release of opposition leader Begum Khaleda Zia from house arrest.

Sheikh Hasina Resigns as Bangladesh Prime Minister, Army Chief Announces Formation of Interim Government

On 5 August 2024, amid violent student protests, Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister and left the country in a military aircraft.

  • Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation in a televised address, announcing the formation of an interim government and urging citizens to maintain peace.
  • PM Hasina left after protestors stormed Gonobhaban, the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka.
  • Approximately 100 people were killed, and over 1,000 injured in clashes between police and protesters on 4 August 2024.
  • Students were protesting against a 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters, arguing the system is discriminatory and favors supporters of Hasina’s Awami League party.
  • The quota system, established in 1972 and briefly abolished in 2018, was restored by a High Court order, which sparked the protests.
  • The Supreme Court reduced the reservations to 5% last month, but protests reignited due to the government’s alleged inaction on releasing student leaders.
  • Hasina’s resignation became the primary demand of the protestors.
  • After resigning, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on 6 August evening and discussed the situation in Bangladesh and her future course of action with India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad.

Q.: Who announced the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh after PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation?

A: The President of Bangladesh
B: The Chief Justice of Bangladesh
C: Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman
D: The Speaker of the Parliament

Answer: C: Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman
On 5 August 2024, amid violent student protests, Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister and left the country in a military helicopter. Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation, announce the formation of an interim government.

Q.: What was the main issue that led to the student protests in Bangladesh in 2024?

A: Economic reforms
B: 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters
C: Election rigging
D: Environmental policies

Answer: B: 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters
Students were protesting against a 30% reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters, arguing the system is discriminatory and favors supporters of Sheik Hasina’s Awami League party.

Venezuela : President Nicolas Maduro wins presidential election for third term

Nicolás Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election by the National Electoral Council (CNE) on 29 July 2024. This will be his third term as Venezuela’s President.

The head of the Electoral Council, Elvis Amoroso, announced the results. With 80 percent of ballots counted, Maduro received 51 percent of the vote. His main rival received 44 percent of the vote. More than 21.6 million Venezuelans participated in the election. There were 10 presidential candidates in the election.

Q.: Who has been declared the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election for his third term on 29 July 2024?

A) Juan Guaidó
B) Henrique Capriles
C) Nicolás Maduro
D) Elvis Amoroso

Ans : C) Nicolás Maduro
Nicolás Maduro has been declared the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election by the National Electoral Council (CNE) on 29 July 2024 for his third term as Venezuela’s President.

India Ranks 82nd on Global Passport Index; Visa-Free access to 58 Countries

India’s Passport Ranking:

  • India ranks 82nd on the global passport index.
  • Indians can enter 58 countries visa-free, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
  • The ranking is by the UK-based Henley Passport Index, based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Top Ranking Country:

  • Singapore occupies the top spot with visa-free entry to 195 countries.
  • Japan is now second, alongside Spain, France, Germany, and Italy, with visa-free access to 192 destinations.

Henley Passport Index: It is a global ranking of countries based on the travel freedom allowed by their ordinary passports for their citizens.

Question 1: What is the rank of India’s passport on the global passport index?

A) 75th
B) 82nd
C) 90th
D) 100th

Answer: B) 82nd
India ranks 82nd on the global passport index.

Question 2: How many countries can Indian passport holders enter visa-free?

A) 50 countries
B) 58 countries
C) 60 countries
D) 70 countries

Answer: B) 58 countries
Indians can enter 58 countries visa-free, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay arrived in Gujarat for a three-day tour

Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay arrived in Gujarat on 22 July 2024 for a three-day tour, beginning with a visit to the Statue of Unity.

They were warmly welcomed at Vadodara airport by Gujarat Minister Jagdish Vishwakarma, adhering to the state’s hospitality tradition. The dignitaries were greeted with cultural performances, including garba and drumming, and were received by notable figures like Mayor Pinkiben Soni and India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela.

The visit underscores strong India-Bhutan diplomatic ties, following a recent high-level meeting between the nations’ foreign secretaries. On July 20, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Bhutanese counterpart Aum Pema Choden reviewed developmental cooperation strategies, expressing satisfaction with projects completed under the 12th Five Year Plan. They also inaugurated 19 schools in Bhutan, showcasing ongoing collaboration.

Q,: Who is the King of Bhutan who visited Gujarat in July 2024?

A) Jigme Singye Wangchuck
B) Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
C) Jigme Dorji Wangchuck
D) Tshering Tobgay

Ans : B) Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay arrived in Gujarat on 22 July 2024 for a three-day tour

Joe Biden Withdraws from US Presidential Race, Endorses Kamala Harris

US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race for the upcoming November election, making the announcement on 21 July 2024 via a letter on his social media account.

He endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the presidential nominee. Pressure to withdraw had been mounting since a debate with former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump on June 28.

Q.: Who did President Joe Biden endorse as the presidential nominee after his withdrawal from the presidential race for the upcoming November 2024 election?

A. Hillary Clinton
B. Elizabeth Warren
C. Kamala Harris
D. Bernie Sanders

Ans : C. Kamala Harris
US President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race for the upcoming November election and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the presidential nominee.

Roberta Metsola elected for new term as President of the European Parliament

Roberta Metsola secured broad backing for a new term as president of the European Parliament on July 16, 2024. Metsola is the first woman to win a second term as head of the EU assembly and only the second president to do so since 1979.

She received support from 562 out of 623 EU lawmakers for her reappointment. Her role is largely ceremonial, presiding over the 720-member parliament, which negotiates and adopts EU legislative proposals and approves the budget.

Q: Who was reappointed as the president of the European Parliament on July 16, 2024?

A) Martin Schulz
B) Angela Merkel
C) Roberta Metsola
D) Ursula von der Leyen

Ans : C) Roberta Metsola
Roberta Metsola secured broad backing for a new term as president of the European Parliament on July 16, 2024.

Donald Trump officially nominated as Republican Candidate for US General Elections 2024

Former US President Donald Trump has been officially nominated as the Republican presidential candidate. His nomination was secured after gaining majority votes from Republican National Committee delegates in Milwaukee on July 15, 2024.

This marks Trump’s third consecutive presidential run, following his win in 2016 and loss to President Joe Biden in 2020. The US Presidential election is scheduled for November 2024.

Trump announced Ohio Senator JD Vance as his vice-presidential running mate. JD Vance, 39, has experience in the US military and is a former venture capitalist and author of “Hillbilly Elegy.” Vance’s selection indicates Trump’s focus on key Midwest states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. JD Vance wife, Usha Chilukuri Vance, is an Indian American woman — and the daughter of immigrants.

Q: Who has been officially nominated as the Republican presidential candidate for the 2024 US Presidential election?

A) Joe Biden
B) Hillary Clinton
C) Donald Trump
D) Mike Pence

Ans : C) Donald Trump
Former US President Donald Trump has been officially nominated as the Republican presidential candidate. His nomination was secured after gaining majority votes from Republican National Committee delegates in Milwaukee on July 15, 2024.

Q: Who did Donald Trump announce as his vice-presidential running mate for the 2024 election?

A) Mike Pence
B) Nikki Haley
C) JD Vance
D) Ron DeSantis

Ans : C) JD Vance
Trump announced Ohio Senator JD Vance as his vice-presidential running mate.

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