This week’s headline features a story from Asia :

PM Modi’s three-day visit to Brunei and Singapore emphasized India's Act East Policy and strengthened ties with Southeast Asia. In Brunei, the historic visit included talks with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah on trade and defence, reinforcing Brunei's Indo-Pacific role. In Singapore, key agreements on semiconductors, digital tech, and health were signed, including an MoU on the India-Singapore Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership. The visit secured Rs 5 lakh crore in investments, focusing on aviation, infrastructure, and skill development, and led to the establishment of an INVEST INDIA office in Singapore.

Europe: The first legally binding international AI treaty will be open for signing on 5th September,2024 by the countries that negotiated it, including European Union members, the United States and Britain as per the CEHRO. The AI Convention, which has been in the works for years and was adopted in May after discussions between 57 countries, addresses the risks AI may pose, while promoting responsible innovation.

North America: To generate higher returns for American retirees, the US government is working with the Indian government to encourage pension funds in the US to invest more in India, across asset classes including equities, debt, real assets and the energy sector.

South America: The Oropouche virus, now spreading across the Americas, has caused over 8,000 cases in 2024, including deaths and severe complications. Transmitted by insects, it has triggered global health alerts and emphasizes the need for enhanced surveillance and vector control.

Asia: PM Modi’s visit to Brunei and Singapore highlighted India’s Act East Policy. Key outcomes included discussions with Brunei’s Sultan on trade and defence and agreements with Singapore on semiconductors and investments, securing Rs 5 lakh crore and establishing an INVEST INDIA office.

Australia : Australia’s centre-left government is introducing 10 voluntary AI guidelines focusing on human oversight and transparency. Industry Minister Ed Husic is leading a consultation on whether these should become mandatory for high-risk applications. The guidelines aim to enhance transparency and control in AI systems, responding to global concerns over misinformation and AI’s growing impact.

Africa:  South Africa, represented by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, seeks to learn from India's rural electrification and renewable energy successes. At the NDB annual meeting, he highlighted interest in BRICS partners' strategies and welcomed $2.3 billion funding for renewable energy projects in South Africa. Read Now!