1) Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Signed Defence Pact
- Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a defence cooperation agreement.
- Aim: Enhance military training, intelligence sharing, and defence technology collaboration.
- Reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing security partnerships beyond the Gulf and Pakistan’s effort to deepen strategic ties.
- Nodal Bodies: Ministries of Defence of Saudi Arabia & Pakistan.
2) First World Teak Conference 2025 Held in Kochi, Kerala
- The first-ever World Teak Conference 2025 was hosted in Kochi, Kerala.
- Focus: Sustainable teak management, global trade, and conservation practices.
- Important since India is one of the largest consumers and importers of teak wood.
- Nodal Bodies: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC), Kerala Forest Department, International Teak Information Network.
3) India Ranked 38th in Digital Nomad Report 2025
- In the Digital Nomad Report 2025, India secured the 38th position.
- The report ranks countries based on remote work opportunities, internet access, visa policies, and cost of living.
- India’s ranking reflects its growing reputation as a tech hub but highlights gaps in infrastructure for global digital workers.
- Publisher: International Digital Nomad Index.
4) R&I Upgraded India’s Sovereign Rating to BBB+ (Stable)
- The Rating and Investment Information Company (R&I), Japan upgraded India’s sovereign rating to BBB+ with Stable outlook.
- Key reasons: Strong economic growth, stable macroeconomic fundamentals, and reforms in infrastructure & taxation.
- Boosts investor confidence and may attract higher foreign investments.
- Nodal Body (India): Ministry of Finance.
5) Copenhagen, Denmark Tops Happiest Cities 2025 List
- Copenhagen, capital of Denmark, secured the top position in the World’s Top 10 Happiest Cities List 2025.
- Factors considered: Quality of life, social trust, environment, health, and community well-being.
- Nordic countries continue to dominate happiness rankings globally.
- Publisher: Global Happiness Cities Index 2025.
