Current Affairs - International

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host a national pavilion at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, under the theme "Accelerating Climate Action Together". This pavilion will highlight the UAE's commitment to addressing climate change through various initiatives, including climate finance, decarbonization, and innovative solutions for food systems and water scarcity. By showcasing its climate leadership, the UAE aims to accelerate global climate action and collaboration, emphasizing its dedication to Net Zero, biodiversity, and youth involvement. The pavilion will feature over 60 dialogues and programs.

South Africa launched the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) to streamline visa processing for Indian tourists, addressing previous challenges such as lengthy application times and limited embassy resources. The primary objective is to increase Indian visitor numbers from 16,000 to 100,000 by year-end, thereby enhancing South Africa's tourism sector. This initiative aims to contribute to economic growth and job creation, positioning South Africa as a desirable destination for Indian travellers. The fast-track visa scheme is expected to boost tourism revenue and foster cultural exchange.

Switzerland's "burqa ban" was approved in a 2021 referendum with a narrow margin of 51.21% to 48.79%. The ban prohibits covering one's face in public places, with exceptions for health reasons, security, climatic conditions, and local customs. Violators may face fines of up to 1,000 Swiss francs. This measure was promoted by the same group that organized the 2009 ban on new minarets. The ban aims to promote public safety and integration while respecting individual freedoms. Its implementation will be monitored closely, given its potential impact on religious and cultural minorities.

India and Qatar have strengthened their cooperation to combat money laundering and terror financing through a meeting between their Financial Intelligence Units in New Delhi. The discussions focused on enhancing information exchange methods, leveraging technology, and exploring public-private partnerships. Qatar expressed appreciation for India's advanced FINNET 2.0 system, demonstrating the willingness of both nations to collaborate in combating financial crimes. This cooperation highlights the importance of international collaboration in tackling global financial security threats.

India was re-elected as the President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) during the Assembly held in New Delhi, with France serving as Co-President for the 2024-2026 term. This leadership role underscores India’s commitment to advancing solar energy for global energy security and climate goals. The ISA Assembly prioritizes energy access, security, and the transition to a carbon-neutral future, with a focus on attracting $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030.