Current Affairs - International

India has extended humanitarian assistance to Syria by dispatching a consignment of approximately 1400 kgs of anti-cancer drugs. This move is part of India's efforts to strengthen bilateral relations with Syria, where the Indian Embassy remains active. The assistance comes at a time when Syria's First Lady Asma Assad was diagnosed with leukaemia, highlighting the need for such humanitarian aid. This gesture reflects India's commitment to providing support to nations in need.

Prime Minister will visit Poland on August 21, in a landmark visit marking the first by an Indian leader in 45 years. This trip is aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership in areas like defence and trade between the two countries, amidst heightened global tensions and geopolitical dynamics. During the visit, the PM will meet with Polish leaders and engage with the Indian community, discuss defence collaboration, and explore economic opportunities in technology, coal mining, and IT sectors. The visit underscores India's efforts to diversify its defence procurement and deepen economic ties with countries like Poland.

The UK government has initiated a rapid analytical sprint to review its counter-extremism strategy, focusing on monitoring trends and understanding effective measures to combat online and on-street extremism. This review will assess the effectiveness of existing measures, including the Prevent programme, to protect against radicalisation and violence in the UK. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the need for urgent action amidst rising far-right ideologies and violent incidents like the Southport knife attack, emphasizing the importance of addressing extremism in various communities.

India, represented by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at the Voice of Global South Summit, emphasized the urgent reform of multilateral institutions to address global crises and inefficiencies within organizations like the United Nations. India advocates for economic resilience, climate action, digital transformation, and equitable access to financing and technology to empower the Global South. This advocacy reflects India's commitment to addressing global challenges and fostering inclusive development within the framework of international cooperation.

On August 2, 2024, Germany joined the United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea, becoming the 18th member state. This membership marks the first expansion of the UNC since Italy was reinstated in 2013. The UNC, established in 1950, plays a crucial role in responding to North Korean aggression and supporting South Korea's defence, making Germany's inclusion significant for enhancing international oversight of the North Korean border.