Current Affairs - International

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Vientiane, Laos, to attend the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and 19th East Asia Summit, marking his 10th ASEAN-India Summit. Laos, as the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will host the event, strengthening India's diplomatic engagement in Southeast Asia. The summits aim to review and plan future ASEAN-India relations, with Modi set to meet with Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and other world leaders. This visit highlights India's commitment to its Act East policy, which has led to substantial benefits for the nation.

Bangladesh's interim government has established a nine-member Constitution Reform Commission, led by Bangladeshi-American professor Ali Riaz, to review and propose reforms within 90 days. The commission aims to create a more representative and democratic framework, strengthening governance in the judiciary and electoral systems for free and fair elections. This move follows Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and is part of broader reforms announced by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, covering judiciary, police, electoral system, public administration, and anti-corruption sectors.

Hurricane Milton is a powerful Category 5 storm with winds reaching 165 mph, threatening the Florida coast and prompting mandatory evacuations in the Tampa Bay area. The National Hurricane Center warns of severe storm surges, heavy rainfall, and potential tornadoes. With over 5.9 million people affected by evacuation orders, authorities urge residents to take immediate action to ensure their safety. The storm's intensity and potential impact have raised concerns about climate change's role in increasing hurricane frequency and severity.

The Maldives has taken significant strides in bolstering its relationship with India, marked by the inauguration of a new runway at Hanimadhoo International Airport and the introduction of RuPay cards. These initiatives aim to enhance economic cooperation, facilitate cashless transactions for Indian tourists, and boost tourism cooperation. The airport expansion, funded by an Indian Line of Credit of USD 132 million, underscores India's commitment to supporting the Maldives' infrastructure development. This partnership reinforces the longstanding bonds between the two nations, built on trade and cultural exchanges.

India pledged financial support to the Maldives by extending $400 million and a ₹3,000 crore currency swap to help the country address its financial challenges. This is part of India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, which focuses on strengthening ties with neighbouring countries. Two MoUs were also signed to boost cooperation in combating corruption and capacity-building programs. The launch of the RuPay card in the Maldives further reflects the growing economic collaboration between the two nations.