Current Affairs - International

The Sharm El-Sheikh Summit took place in Egypt, where U.S. President Donald Trump, along with the leaders of Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, signed the “Trump Declaration for Enduring Peace and Prosperity.” This declaration aimed to promote a ceasefire and a sustainable peace framework for Gaza, focusing on ending hostilities, improving humanitarian access, and ensuring stability in the region. Egypt’s role as host highlighted its longstanding diplomatic influence in Middle Eastern peace initiatives and its continued efforts to facilitate dialogue among regional powers for achieving long-term security and cooperation.

The Maldives has made history by becoming the first country in the world to achieve the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis, as certified by the World Health Organization (WHO). This remarkable public health milestone reflects the country’s strong healthcare infrastructure, universal antenatal coverage, and near-total screening of pregnant women for key infections. With over 95% of expectant mothers receiving antenatal care, Maldives has demonstrated an exemplary model for integrated disease prevention and maternal-child health programs, setting a global benchmark for small island nations in public health success.

The 45th edition of GITEX Global, the world’s largest technology and AI showcase, opened in Dubai from October 13 to 17, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Harbour. The event brings together over 6,800 exhibitors and 2,000 startups from more than 180 countries, focusing on AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and sustainable technologies. It serves as a strategic platform for innovation, international partnerships, and policy dialogue. Dubai’s hosting of GITEX 2025 highlights its role as a global hub for digital transformation, attracting top tech leaders, investors, and policymakers worldwide.

The United States has approved the establishment of a military training facility by Qatar at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. This agreement enables Qatari F-15QA fighter jets and pilots to participate in joint training programs with U.S. forces over the next decade. Qatar already holds the status of a major non-NATO ally and hosts the largest U.S. military base in West Asia. This collaboration further strengthens strategic defence ties between the two nations, enhancing interoperability, joint readiness, and mutual security interests in the broader Middle Eastern and global defence landscape.

The 78th session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia commenced in Colombo, bringing together health leaders from across the region to discuss key public health priorities. India’s Minister of State for Health, Anupriya Patel, is set to participate in the plenary session, emphasizing India’s active engagement in regional health initiatives. The conference focuses on enhancing cooperation among member countries to strengthen health systems, improve pandemic preparedness, and foster sustainable healthcare solutions. Hosting the event in Colombo underscores Sri Lanka’s growing role in regional and global health diplomacy.