Current Affairs - International

Hurricane Oscar, upgraded from a tropical storm, is forecasted to make a second landfall in Cuba, specifically affecting the north coast provinces of Holguin and Guantanamo to Punta Maisi. The storm's trajectory poses significant challenges for Cuba's 10 million residents, who are preparing for potential damage and disruptions. As a hurricane, Oscar's impact is expected to be substantial, with authorities issuing warnings and taking precautions to ensure public safety. Effective preparedness and response measures are crucial to mitigate the effects of this powerful storm.

India conducted the bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with Oman, aiming to enhance maritime cooperation and improve operational interoperability. The Indian Navy's INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft participated alongside the Royal Navy of Oman's vessel Al Seeb. Held off the coast of Goa from 13 to 18 October, the exercise featured activities like gun firings, anti-aircraft drills, and replenishment manoeuvres, further strengthening strategic ties between the two nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

The UAE has introduced a new visa-on-arrival policy for Indian nationals. This policy allows Indian passport holders, as well as those with permanent resident status or valid visas from the US, UK, or EU, to receive a 14-day or 60-day visa on arrival. The 14-day visa is extendable, while the 60-day visa is non-extendable. This initiative aims to improve tourism and business ties, particularly with India's large expatriate population and increasing economic cooperation.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to attend the BRICS summit in Russia, specifically in the city of Kazan, from October 22-23. The summit's theme focuses on “strengthening multilateralism for just global development and security.” BRICS, formed in 2006, expanded in 2024 with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Russia, being one of the founding members of BRICS, continues to play a key role in hosting such international events aimed at fostering global cooperation.

India has recently dispatched humanitarian aid to Lebanon in response to escalating tensions and ongoing conflict in the region. This aid includes a 33-ton consignment of medical supplies, part of a broader effort to support those affected by the crisis. Additionally, during the third Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC III) Summit, India committed to sending medical equipment, such as Haemodialysis machines, to Papua New Guinea (PNG). The initiative underscores India's commitment to humanitarian assistance and its role in providing support to countries in need during times of conflict.