Current Affairs - International

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.

The world’s second-largest diamond, weighing 2,492 carats, was recently discovered at Karowe Mine in Botswana by a Canadian mining firm. This significant find has been acknowledged by Botswana's President Masisi and is noted as the third major diamond discovery at the Karowe Mine. In 2019, the largest diamond in Botswana, weighing 1,758 carats, was also found at this mine. These discoveries highlight Botswana's rich mineral resources and its prominent role in the global diamond industry.

India has emerged as the largest importer of Russian oil, surpassing China, with a significant increase in imports. Indian refiners are taking advantage of discounted crude rates due to Western sanctions, leading to a 12% year-over-year increase in imports. This development highlights India's growing energy demands and its strategic approach to securing oil supplies. The country's exploration efforts are also expanding, with plans to explore up to 16% of its sedimentary basins in 2024.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the strong partnership between India and the United States during his visit to Washington. He described the India-US alliance as a "formidable force" crucial for maintaining global peace, prosperity, and stability. This statement reflects the growing strategic and economic ties between the two nations, highlighting their collaborative efforts on the international stage. The choice of the United States underscores the importance of this bilateral relationship in achieving mutual and global objectives.

Prime Minister Narendra presented four BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri) Cubes to Ukraine on Friday, during his visit to Kyiv. These Cubes, part of a unique medical initiative by India, are designed to expedite medical treatment, save lives, and support Ukraine in the face of mass casualty incidents. The Aid Cube, in particular, can be deployed within 12 minutes, offering critical care in emergencies, and is capable of managing up to 200 cases, including surgical interventions. This humanitarian effort highlights India's commitment to international assistance and disaster response cooperation. It underscores the significance of India's medical aid in supporting countries like Ukraine, which is grappling with challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts.