Current Affairs - International

Typhoon Shanshan made landfall on Japan’s Kyushu Island on August 29, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, injuring at least 40 people across three prefectures. The Japan Meteorological Agency described it as the country's strongest typhoon of the year, with winds reaching up to 252 kilometres per hour. The storm led to severe disruptions, including the suspension of train services and power outages, while also prompting a rare special typhoon warning for Kagoshima Prefecture.

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France, specifically in Paris, on accusations of failing to manage illegal content on the platform. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that the arrest was part of an ongoing legal investigation and was not politically motivated. This incident has prompted discussions on the responsibilities of online platforms in regulating content and the broader implications for freedom of expression.

North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, recently showcased new "suicide drones," which function similarly to guided missiles and have a range of over 1,000 km. These developments come amid escalating military tensions in the region. North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is located in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula, sharing borders with China and Russia to the north and South Korea to the south, with Pyongyang as its capital.

Australia has taken a significant step towards work-life balance by introducing the 'Right to disconnect' law. This legislation enables employees to disregard work-related communications outside of their regular working hours, promoting a healthier separation between work and personal life. While some employers have expressed concerns about the law, it aims to improve employee well-being and productivity. Similar laws are already in place in several European countries, including France and Germany, demonstrating a growing recognition of the importance of work-life balance.

Sri Lanka has announced a significant move to boost tourism by offering visa-free entry to 35 countries, including India, starting from October 1. This initiative aims to revive the tourism industry and strengthen international relations. The visa-free access will facilitate travel and cultural exchange between Sri Lanka and the eligible nations, including India, the US, UK, China, and Australia.