Current Affairs - International

Poland has announced a €4.7 billion investment to become part of the NATO Pipeline System (NPS), a critical infrastructure established during the Cold War to supply fuel and lubricants to NATO forces. The NPS spans approximately 10,000 kilometers across 12 countries and includes extensive storage and distribution facilities such as depots, refineries, and air bases. Poland’s participation aims to strengthen its defence logistics, enhance energy security, and contribute to NATO’s overall operational readiness and strategic resilience in Europe.

India launched UPI (Unified Payments Interface) at Lulu Group supermarkets in Qatar on 6 October 2025, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. This initiative allows over 830,000 Indian residents and tourists in Qatar to make low-cost, real-time digital payments using India’s homegrown UPI system. The project, in partnership with NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), Qatar National Bank (QNB), and NETSTARS, marks Qatar as the eighth country to adopt UPI. The move strengthens cross-border trade, facilitates faster remittances, and promotes India’s fintech innovation globally while providing wider payment options for local merchants.

The 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference is being held in Bridgetown, Barbados, with the theme “The Commonwealth – A Global Partner.” India’s parliamentary delegation is led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Organised annually by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), the conference brings together legislators from member countries to discuss governance, democracy, and collaborative initiatives. India’s participation underscores its engagement with Commonwealth nations, allowing for exchange of best practices, strengthening diplomatic ties, and contributing to discussions on global parliamentary cooperation and development strategies across member states.

Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved Lecanemab (marketed as Leqembi) for treating early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, making it the second disease-modifying therapy cleared in the country. Lecanemab is a monoclonal antibody that targets amyloid-beta plaques, slowing cognitive decline and disease progression in patients with mild Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment. Approval comes with safety measures, including MRI monitoring, due to risks like brain swelling and microhemorrhages. While the drug offers hope to early-stage patients, its high cost and limited accessibility remain challenges. This approval reflects Australia’s commitment to advancing dementia care and addressing rising Alzheimer’s prevalence.

Singapore honoured legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg by renaming the island where he tragically died as “Zubeen Garg Island” on Google Maps. Garg, aged 52, passed away during a scuba diving accident while on a yacht outing in Singapore. This tribute reflects his significant impact on music, both in Assam and Bollywood, with iconic songs such as “Ya Ali” from Gangster. The renaming not only commemorates his legacy but also underscores the global reach of his artistic contributions. Such gestures highlight the recognition of influential cultural figures beyond their home countries.