Current Affairs - International

Scientists in China have discovered two new henipaviruses in bats located in Yunnan province, raising significant public health concerns. These viruses are genetically similar to the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses, both of which are known to cause fatal encephalitis and respiratory illnesses in humans. Found in bat kidneys, the viruses pose a risk of transmission through contaminated fruits or water, particularly in areas where human settlements are close to bat habitats. This discovery, made through genetic sequencing of samples collected over four years, highlights the ongoing risk of zoonotic spillovers and reinforces the need for global vigilance in monitoring emerging infectious diseases.

The Indian Conservation Conference (ICCON) 2025 is being hosted by India from June 25 to 27 at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun. Organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the event brings together over 500 participants including scientists, policymakers, NGOs, and youth from India and the Global South. ICCON 2025 aims to foster collaboration on pressing biodiversity and wildlife management issues. Key features include 17 thematic areas, 10 workshops, and the innovative TechBridge platform to highlight wildlife technology. This event highlights India’s leadership role in global conservation efforts and inclusive environmental dialogue.

During the NATO summit held in The Hague, all member countries committed to a significant increase in defence and security spending, aiming to reach a total of 5% of their GDP by the year 2035. This pledge is structured to include at least 3.5% for core defence requirements such as military readiness, procurement, and modernization. Additionally, up to 1.5% will be allocated to broader security-related expenditures. This strategic financial commitment highlights NATO’s unified approach to enhancing collective defence capabilities in response to evolving global threats and maintaining military superiority and preparedness among member nations.

Bangladesh participated alongside China and Pakistan in a trilateral meeting held in Kunming, China. This meeting took place during the 9th China-South Asia Exposition and the 6th China-South Asia Cooperation meeting. The three nations explored opportunities for collaboration across several sectors such as infrastructure, connectivity, trade, investment, healthcare, agriculture, maritime affairs, ICT, disaster preparedness, and climate change. This engagement highlights Bangladesh's growing involvement in regional diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in South Asia, particularly in initiatives spearheaded by China.

Romania hosted ConvEx-3 (2025), the most extensive nuclear emergency simulation organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The 36-hour drill was centred around a simulated accident at Romania’s Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant and tested international coordination and readiness to respond to radiological disasters. Over 75 countries and 10 global organizations participated, making it a historic and truly global exercise. This event also marked the 20th anniversary since Romania last hosted such a simulation, reinforcing its role in promoting global nuclear safety standards and effective cross-border emergency management practices in the face of potential nuclear incidents.