Current Affairs - International

Khalilur Rahman, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, was elected President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on June 2, 2026. He secured 99 votes in the election, defeating Cypriot diplomat Andreas Kakouris, who received 91 votes. Rahman is set to assume office on September 8, 2026, and will succeed Annalena Baerbock. His presidency will be guided by the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All.” He also became only the second Bangladeshi diplomat to hold this prestigious position after Humayun Rasheed Chowdhury.

Florida became the first U.S. state to file a lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman on June 2, 2026. The legal action was initiated by the state's Attorney General through an 83-page complaint alleging that rapid commercial expansion and competition in the AI sector were prioritised over user safety. The lawsuit also raised concerns about misleading users regarding potential risks associated with AI systems, inadequate protections for minors, and the alleged facilitation of harmful activities. The case marked a significant development in the evolving debate over AI regulation, accountability, and consumer protection in the United States.

Oman is the country with which India’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) officially entered into force on June 1, 2026. The agreement establishes a strategic trade corridor connecting India with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and East Africa. It provides extensive market access, including duty-free benefits for the majority of Indian exports, while also enhancing cooperation in services, investment, and trade facilitation. The pact supports sectors such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, and pharmaceuticals. It further strengthens bilateral economic ties and leverages Omani ports like Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah to improve regional connectivity and trade opportunities.

Malaysia introduced a regulation prohibiting individuals under 16 years of age from registering on social media platforms beginning June 2, 2026. The measure is aimed at enhancing online safety for minors and reducing exposure to harmful digital content. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the rule. Social media companies are required to verify users’ ages using government-issued records, while existing users must complete age verification within a six-month transition period. Non-compliant platforms may face substantial financial penalties, reflecting Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen digital governance and child protection online.

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) partnered with Tokyo-based Fourth Valley Concierge Corporation (FVCC) on May 26, 2026, to enhance workforce mobility for Indian professionals. The collaboration aims to facilitate the movement of at least 50,000 skilled Indian workers to Japan over a five-year period. A key component of the initiative is the implementation of the "Credibility Check" system through NSDC Trust, which verifies identity, educational qualifications, employment history, and background records. The partnership supports the India-Japan human resource exchange action plan and seeks to improve transparency, trust, and opportunities for Indian talent in the Japanese workforce.