International

 

International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

Britain Joins the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)

On December 15, 2024, Britain officially became the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), becoming the 12th member of this significant trade bloc. This move marks a major milestone in Britain’s post-Brexit trade strategy, aiming to strengthen its global trade links and deepen ties with the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Points

  • Strategic Expansion: By joining the CPTPP, Britain aims to expand its trade horizons and diversify its economic partnerships.
  • Economic Benefits: The UK government estimates that the pact could boost the economy by £2 billion ($2.5 billion) annually in the long run.
  • Trade Opportunities: Membership provides British businesses with lower tariffs and fewer barriers when trading with CPTPP member countries, including Japan, Australia, Canada, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.
  • Influence and Growth: Britain’s accession allows it to influence the future development of the CPTPP, including decisions on potential new members like China and Taiwan.

Romania and Bulgaria to join EU’s Schengen area on January 1, 2025

On December 12, 2024, EU interior ministers announced that Romania and Bulgaria will fully join the border-free Schengen Area starting January 1, 2025. This decision marks the end of a long journey for both countries, which have been EU members since 2007.

The Schengen Area currently comprises 29 countries, including 25 EU member states and four non-EU countries. Joining the Schengen Area means that Romania and Bulgaria will no longer have border controls with other Schengen countries, allowing for free movement of people, goods, and services.

The decision to allow full membership came after Austria lifted its long-standing veto, which was based on concerns about migration and border management. Both Romania and Bulgaria have made significant progress in addressing these issues, leading to their acceptance into the Schengen Area.

Mohamed al-Bashir appointed as caretaker Prime Minister of Syria

Mohamed al-Bashir has been appointed as the caretaker Prime Minister of Syria on 10 December 2024. This appointment, effective until March 1, 2025, marks a significant step in Syria’s transition. Al-Bashir, a prominent rebel leader and former head of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led Syrian Salvation Government in Idlib, played a crucial role in the recent offensive that led to President Bashar al-Assad’s fall.

Born in 1986 in the Jabal Zawiya region of Idlib, al-Bashir holds a degree in electrical and electronic engineering from the University of Aleppo and has studied Sharia and law. He joined the revolutionaries in 2021 and has held various key positions, including the Minister of Development and Humanitarian Affairs.

As caretaker Prime Minister, al-Bashir has pledged to ensure a smooth transition of power and work towards Syria’s stability and reconstruction. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a peaceful and stable future for the country.

Syrian Rebel Forces Claim Control of Damascus, President Assad Flees

On December 8, 2024, Syrian rebel forces claimed control of Damascus after a week-long offensive that faced no resistance from government troops, signaling a dramatic shift in Syria’s political landscape. President Bashar al-Assad, who ruled for 24 years, reportedly fled the country to an undisclosed location. Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali expressed willingness to ensure a peaceful transition of power to the rebels.

The opposition, led by Hadi al-Bahra, announced plans to collaborate with international partners, including Arab and European countries and the UN, to shape Syria’s future. Key developments included the rebels’ capture of Homs, the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Damascus International Airport, and the release of prisoners from Saydnaya military prison. Clashes between rebel and regime forces had escalated since November 27, 2024.

India to Chair 68th Session of UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs for the first time

India has been appointed to chair the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), with Shambhu Kumaran, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Vienna, assuming the chairmanship on December 6, 2024. This marks the first time India has chaired this UN body, which is responsible for monitoring global drug trends, supporting balanced policies, and overseeing international drug conventions.

India’s leadership reflects its growing global influence and commitment to addressing international challenges through multilateral platforms. As Chair, India will prioritize representing the Global South’s interests and fostering dialogue on drug policy issues while continuing the CND’s ongoing work.

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes Namibia’s first female President

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the ruling SWAPO party has won Namibia’s eighth presidential election, becoming the country’s first female president with over 57% of the votes. Her closest rival, Panduleni Itula, received 26%.

At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah, currently vice president, is a seasoned leader in Namibian politics since independence in 1990, with significant domestic and international recognition. SWAPO also secured a majority in the National Assembly, winning 51 out of 96 seats.

World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 from December 4 to 6, 2024, in Chennai

The World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC) 2024 will be held from December 4 to 6, 2024, at The Leela Palace, Chennai, India. Organized by the Institute of Marine Engineers (India), Chennai Branch, this prestigious event occurs every three years and is returning to India after 15 years. It will bring together over 300 delegates from 21 member organizations across 17 countries, including participants from the US, UK, Germany, Spain, and Asia-Pacific countries.

The conference will focus on futuristic developments and current challenges in the maritime industry, featuring renowned speakers and panelists discussing the future of the global maritime sector. Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, will be the Guest of Honour. The event underscores Chennai’s prominence as a major maritime hub and promises to foster international collaboration and innovation.

Kash Patel Nominated as next Director of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, a seasoned lawyer and investigator, played key roles during Trump’s first term, serving as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense and in other senior positions. If confirmed by the Senate, Patel will become the first Indian-American and South Asian to lead the FBI.

Trump praised Patel’s dedication to justice, his efforts to combat crime and trafficking, and his pivotal role in exposing the “Russia Hoax.” Patel’s nomination highlights the growing influence of the Indian-American community in US politics, following figures like Nikki Haley, who served as Trump’s UN Ambassador, and Kamala Harris, the current Vice President.

Q.: Who has been nominated as the next Director of the FBI by US President-elect Donald Trump?

(A) Pam Bondi
(B) Nikki Haley
(C) Kash Patel
(D) Kamala Harris

Answer: (C) Kash Patel
US President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Masato Kanda elected as President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Masato Kanda has been unanimously elected as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) by its Board of Governors. Currently serving as Special Advisor to Japan’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Kanda will assume office in February 2025, succeeding Masatsugu Asakawa. His term will conclude on 23 November 2026.

ADB, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Manila, Philippines, focuses on social and economic development in Asia. It started with 31 members and now has 68, including members of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific and non-regional developed countries.

Ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah

The Israeli government has approved a US- and France-brokered ceasefire deal with Hezbollah in Lebanon, as announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office on 26 November 2024.

The ceasefire aims to end the year-long conflict that has killed 3,800 people and injured 16,000 in Lebanon. Under the agreement, both Israeli forces and Hezbollah will withdraw from south Lebanon within 60 days, with Hezbollah repositioning north of the Litani River. The Lebanese national army and UN peacekeeping forces will secure the vacated areas.

While Lebanon’s foreign minister supports the agreement, Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s “full freedom of military action” and warned of immediate responses to violations. He also cited three strategic reasons for the ceasefire:

  1. Countering Iranian threats,
  2. Resupplying Israeli forces amid delays in advanced weaponry deliveries, and
  3. Isolating Hamas by preventing a multi-front conflict.

The deal has received international backing, with French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden committing to its enforcement.

Yamandú Orsi wins Presidential Election in Uruguay

Yamandú Orsi of the Broad Front alliance has emerged victorious as Uruguay’s next president. Orsi, a former history teacher and mayor, secured 49.8% of the votes in a closely contested run-off election held on November 24, 2024. He defeated Álvaro Delgado of the center-right National Party, who garnered 45.9% support.

Orsi’s victory marks the return of a center-left government to Uruguay after five years of conservative administration. He is considered the political heir of former President José Mujica, who supported him throughout his campaign. Orsi has pledged to promote a “modern left” approach, focusing on tackling homelessness, poverty, and crime.

Russia has launched an Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) targeting Ukraine

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia has launched an Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) targeting Ukraine on 21 November 2024. This marks the first time such a weapon has been used in the conflict, highlighting the increasing intensity of the situation.

The missile was launched from the Astrakhan region in Russia and targeted the city of Dnipro in central-eastern Ukraine. The attack also involved the launch of six Kh-101 cruise missiles, five of which were intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses. The use of an ICBM, which typically has a range exceeding 5,500 kilometers and can carry nuclear or conventional warheads, represents a major escalation in the conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, stating that it demonstrates Russia’s use of Ukraine as a testing ground for its advanced weaponry. The European Union has also expressed concern, calling the attack a “clear escalation” and a significant change in the nature of the conflict.

This development follows recent updates to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, which now considers aggression from a non-nuclear state supported by a nuclear power as a direct threat to its sovereignty. The situation remains tense, with international observers closely monitoring the developments.

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.

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