US to Provide $200 Million to Sudan; Diplomats to Visit Syria
The United States has announced financial aid of $200 million to Sudan. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed this during a UN Security Council meeting, emphasizing Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, American diplomats, accompanied by hostage negotiators, are set to visit Syria following the removal of President Bashar al-Assad.
President Biden’s Upcoming Visit to Italy
US President Joe Biden will embark on a three-day visit to Italy from January 9 to January 12. During his stay in Rome, he will meet with Pope Francis, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The White House noted this might be Biden’s final foreign trip before the presidential transition to Donald Trump on January 20. Discussions with Pope Francis will focus on global peace initiatives.
Cyclone Chido Death Toll Rises to 73 in Mozambique
The devastating Cyclone Chido has claimed 73 lives in Mozambique. Reports indicate that 66 fatalities occurred in Cabo Delgado province, while Nampula and Niassa provinces reported four and three deaths, respectively. Over 540 individuals sustained injuries, and 39,100 homes were destroyed or severely damaged. Cyclone Chido brought winds of 260 km/h and rainfall of 250 mm, affecting more than 329,500 people.
Putin Signals Willingness for Ukraine Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness for discussions with US President-elect Donald Trump to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. He stated there are no preconditions from Russia for initiating talks with Ukrainian authorities. On Syria, Putin reaffirmed Russia’s support for ousted ally Bashar al-Assad, who has been granted asylum in Moscow.
Security Forces Kill 11 Fighters in Pakistan
Pakistani security forces conducted three separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, killing 11 fighters. The Inter-Services Public Relations reported the operations took place in Tank district and other areas on December 17 and 18, targeting militant hideouts.
India’s Diplomatic Appointments
- Birendra Singh Yadav has been named India’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan. A 1997-batch IFS officer, Yadav’s appointment reflects strengthening India-Kyrgyzstan ties. Kyrgyzstan has been a strong supporter of India in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the UN Security Council.
- Alok Ranjan Jha, previously India’s ambassador to Belarus, has been appointed High Commissioner to Zambia. Jha has extensive experience, including roles in New Delhi and abroad.
Road Accidents Claim 50 Lives in Afghanistan
Two separate road accidents in Afghanistan have resulted in 50 deaths and 76 injuries. In Ghazni province, a passenger bus collided with an oil tanker on the Kabul-Kandahar highway. Many of the victims were women and children, with several injured in critical condition.
Foreign Secretary to Visit Mauritius
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will embark on an official visit to Mauritius from December 20 to December 22. This visit marks the first by a senior Indian official following the island nation’s new government formation. Discussions are expected to deepen bilateral relations.
