Around The world

GT keeps the newswire ticking by bringing you news from around the globe

 

USA
Henry Kissinger dies at 100

Former secretary of state, Henry Kissinger, died on Nov 29, 2023, at the age of 100. He won the 1973 Nobel Peace Prize for his mediation of the ceasefire during the Vietnam War. However, critics term him as a war criminal due to his contribution in expanding US military involvement in Vietnam and Cambodia as well as his support for ruthless regimes in Chile, Indonesia, Argentina, and Pakistan.

UK
Eco-friendly flight

Virgin Atlantic achieved a milestone by powering the first-ever transatlantic flight with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Departing from London’s Heathrow Airport, the Boeing 787 passenger jet, named Flight 100, commenced its journey to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City on Nov 28, 2023. The flight’s SAF was derived from waste fats and plant sugars, emitting 70% less carbon as compared to petroleum-based jet fuel. With this move, Virgin Atlantic showcased its commitment towards finding sustainable ways to fly in the aviation industry.

CHINA
Pneumonia outbreak
The nation is overwhelmed due to a surge in respiratory illnesses as well as pneumonia cases in children. As per the reports, the outbreak has spread at the community level, especially across China’s north-eastern regions, with Beijing and Liaoning being two major hubs. Furthermore, the reports indicate that in Beijing, on an average, 1200 patients are being admitted to a hospital, with most of them being children. Chinese authorities have advised the citizens to take preventive measures against the disease.

IRELAND
Booker Prize 2023

Prophet Song by Paul Lynch was announced as the Booker Prize 2023 winner, making Lynch the fifth Irish author to bag the prestigious award. The trophy was presented to Lynch by Shehan Karunatilaka, the 2022 winner. The Irish author also received 50000 GBP as prize. Esi Edugyan, chair of judges, called the winning book ‘soul-shattering and true’.

FINLAND
Shuts border crossing

On Nov 29, 2023, PM Petteri Orpo declared the closure of all border crossings between Finland and Russia. Prior to this, seven out of eight checkpoints along the 1,340-kilometer border had already been sealed. The decision comes as nearly 1,000 migrants have entered Finland since August, lacking proper documentation. Officials assert this move is crucial to safeguard national security.

KENYA
EI Nino floods

In the wake of Kenya’s emerging short-rain season, the resurgence of the El Nino phenomenon has resulted in widespread flooding. The death toll has reached 120, while over 90,000 households have faced displacement, seeking shelter in 120 makeshift camps. The aid agencies have further confirmed the destruction of thousands of homes, causing the loss of tens of thousands of livestock.
India
National Rozgar Mela

PM Modi distributed over 51000 appointment letters to new recruits via a video conferencing during the Rozgar Mela, held on Nov 30, 2023, at 37 locations across the country. The new recruits will join various ministries and departments, training themselves through Karmayogi Prarambh, an online module with 800 e-learning courses available in ‘anywhere any device’ learning format.