Current Affairs - International

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.

The 19th Mid-Term Ministerial of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) is being hosted in Kampala, Uganda, with Uganda holding the NAM Chair for the 2024–26 term. Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, is leading the Indian delegation to the event. The theme of the ministerial, "Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence," emphasises the importance of solidarity and partnership among NAM member countries to promote equitable global development and mutual prosperity. Uganda’s leadership role reinforces its commitment to fostering stronger South-South cooperation and advancing NAM’s founding principles.