International Current Affairs MCQs

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Zimbabwe introduces the ZiG currency, aiming to stabilize its economy. The ZiG, backed by gold reserves, replaces the depreciated Zimbabwe dollar. Initially launched electronically, physical banknotes and coins are now in circulation. Despite efforts to restore faith, skepticism persists, with some government departments refusing to accept the new currency. This move reflects ongoing struggles to address Zimbabwe’s enduring economic challenges.

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Dubai is developing the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International Airport, under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s leadership. With a capacity for 260 million passengers annually, it will feature 400 terminal gates and five parallel runways. Beyond transportation, it aims to integrate into urban life, commerce, and global trade, positioning itself as the “world’s airport” within Dubai South. This ambitious project underscores Dubai’s dedication to innovation and global connectivity.

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The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposes reclassifying marijuana from Schedule-I to Schedule-III, less tightly regulated. President Biden’s suggestion aims to align marijuana regulation with its medical potential, contrasting with Schedule-I categorization alongside heroin and LSD. Despite pending scrutiny by White House Officials and public commentary, the move signals a shift toward acknowledging marijuana’s therapeutic benefits backed by scientific evidence.

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Former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele elected as Solomon Islands’ new Prime Minister, securing 31 votes out of 49 in a secret ballot. His victory suggests continued close ties with China. Manele pledges integrity and prioritization of national interests in his inaugural address, defeating opposition leader Matthew Wale, who garnered 18 votes.

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India and Nigeria agreed to expedite the Local Currency Settlement System Agreement, aiming to enhance bilateral trade. Trade settlements will occur in Indian rupees and Nigerian naira. The decision was reached during the 2nd India-Nigeria Joint Trade Committee session in Abuja. Led by Amardeep Singh Bhatia, the Indian delegation included representatives from the RBI, EXIM Bank, and NPCI. The meeting, held from April 29 to 30, 2024, outlined areas for trade enhancement.

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Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced an AI-generated avatar, Victoria Shi, as its digital spokesperson. Shi, clad in professional attire, presents updates on consular affairs via social media. While her appearance is AI-generated, the content she delivers is human-written and verified. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba lauds Shi’s introduction as a groundbreaking move, highlighting time and resource savings. Ukraine showcases its embrace of innovative tech in diplomatic operations.

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The European Union (EU) adopted its first law to combat violence against women. The law requires EU countries to criminalize female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and online harassment. However, the law does not include a common definition of rape. The EU Commission proposed the law in 2022.

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Panama, a Central American country connecting North and South America, is poised for a significant immigration policy shift, potentially impacting from its dense Darien jungle to the U.S. border. Bordered by Costa Rica and Colombia, it boasts the famous Panama Canal, cutting through its midsection. With a diverse population and vast rainforests, Panama’s cultural tapestry includes indigenous, European, Afro-Caribbean, and global immigrant influences.

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Ukraine’s parliament approved a bill permitting select prisoners to join the military due to a shortage of troops, a shift from past opposition. The legislation, pending final approval, limits participation to certain prisoner groups with less than three years left on their sentence. Despite concerns about discrimination and uncertainties, as Ukraine confronts heightened Russian aggression, efforts to bolster military recruitment have intensified.

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The Grande Prairie Forest Area, Canada faces an unprecedented wildfire crisis, with multiple out-of-control blazes. Authorities rate the danger as extreme, hampering helicopter and air tanker operations due to limited visibility. Smoke from neighboring British Columbia worsens the situation. One major fire, GWF029, covers 90 hectares near Valhalla. Overnight, a fire guard was established, but ground crews continue battling surface fires until windy conditions ease.