Pakistan’s First Monthly E-Magazine for Civil Services Aspirants

CSS TIMES

Jan 2024
Development Advocate Pakistan
Pakistan's Current Economic Model is Not Working Current Affairs
Najy Benhassine
Country Director for Pakistan, World Bank
MCQs
Dec 2023
Policy Vision Article, UNDP Publication

From Pakistan and India to Indonesia,

Asia Set for Election-Packed 2024

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www.csstimes.pk

This 2024,
 CONTENTS
UNDP Article Intergovernmental Organization
05 Pakistan's Current Economic 48 Angola Exits OPEC, Shrinking
Model is Not Working: World Bank Group to 12
General Elections 2024 49 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
13 From Pakistan and India to Indonesia, on Angola Exits OPEC, Shrinking
Asia Set for Election-Packed 2024 Group to 12

Climate Change
International Affairs 51 South Asia Worst in World for
18 China's Economic Diplomacy Water Scarcity: UN Report
in Polynesia and Micronesia 53 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
22 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) on South Asia Worst in World for
on China's Economic Diplomacy Water Scarcity: UN Report
in Polynesia & Micronesia
23 Italy Withdraws from Belt & Economy
Road Initiative 55 Pakistan's Regional Exports
Rebound: China Leads, India Lags
25 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
on Italy Withdraws from Belt and 56 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
Road Initiative on Pakistan's Regional Exports
Rebound: China Leads, India Lags
27 Article 99 of UN Charter
on Gaza 58 WB: International Debt Report
(IDR) / Pakistan
29 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
on Article 99 of UN Charter on 60 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
Gaza on WB: International Debt Report
(IDR) / Pakistan
International Organizations
31 Pakistan Secures 38-18 Victory
Over India in UNESCO's Executive Environment
Board Vice Chair position 61 Self-Pollination
33 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) 64 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
on Pakistan Secures 38-18 Victory on Self-Pollination
Over India in UNESCO
65 Iridescent Clouds
35 91st Interpol
General Assembly in Vienna 65 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
on Iridescent Clouds
38 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
on 91st Interpol General Assembly
in Vienna
New Scientic Advancements
66
Formaldehyde
41
FAO Report on Healthy Diet
42 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
General Knowledge
on FAO Report on Healthy Diet 67 World's Oldest Fort Discovered
44 The State of Food and Agriculture in Siberia
2023 Report

47 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

Current Affairs MCQs
on FAO's 'The State of Food and 69 December 2023
Agriculture 2023' Report
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
Pakistan's Current Economic First and foremost, Pakistan's persistently
Model is Not Working: World Bank low quality of basic services for human
development must be addressed. Forty
percent of children under five suffer from
stunted growth - this rate exceeds 55 percent
in the poorest districts and has declined very
little over the years. A major coordinated
effort is needed to address the core drivers of
stunting: low access to water, waste and
sanitation services, basic health and nutrition
services during the first 1000 days of life, etc.
79 percent of ten-year-old children cannot
read; access to quality education is low and
Pakistan's public spending in the sector is
Pakistan's current economic model is not around half what it should be to close the
working. It has fallen behind its peers, gap. Nearly seven percent of children do not
significant progress with poverty reduction survive until their fifth birthday. Reforms are
has now started to reverse, and the benefits required to expand access to water and
of growth have accrued to a narrow elite. sanitation in the face of climate change,
Pakistan is heavily exposed to climate change, enhance the coverage, adequacy, and
with the potentially devastating impacts of efficiency of the social protection system, and
climate shocks and natural disasters already address policy and institutional constraints to
apparent. There is broad consensus that effective service delivery.
action is needed to change policies that have
plagued development, benefitted only a few, Policy failures and
and led to very volatile and low growth. distortions in the
Most economic crises get wasted. But many critical agri-food and
countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, energy sector must be
India, Vietnam and others, have emerged addressed. In
from crisis through deep and sustained agriculture, reforms
changes in their policies, resulting in step are required to unwind
changes in growth, and sustainable the subsidies and price
improvements in living standards. Pakistan restrictions that lock
could do the same, but this will require major smallholder farmers
policy shifts in key areas. into a low-value
farming system and
P a k i s t a n's c u r r e n t encourage resource-
economic model is not intensive and
working since it has environmentally
fallen behind its peers, damaging production
significant progress in practices.
poverty reduction has
now started to reverse, Second, fiscal management must be
and the benefits of drastically improved. Debt servicing costs and
growth have accrued domestic revenue mobilization are at
to a narrow elite: unsustainable levels, leaving inadequate
resources to invest in human development
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
and infrastructure, address economic from inefficient state-owned enterprises,
challenges, and adapt to a changing climate. including in the energy sector. More revenue
Reforms are required to consolidate and must be raised from the better-off, through
improve the quality of government spending, increased progressive taxation of property
including by cutting regressive and and environmentally-damaging activities, as
distortionary subsidies, and reduce losses well as reducing tax exemptions.

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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
Reforms are required raised from the better-
to consolidate and off, through increased
improve the quality of progressive taxation of
government spending, p r o p e r t y a n d
including by cutting environmentally-
regressive and damaging activities, as
distor tionar y well as reducing tax
subsidies, and reduce exemptions
losses from inefficient
s t a t e - o w n e d Thirdly, improved living standards will
enterprises, including require stronger growth and a more dynamic
in the energy sector. and open economy. Protection of inward-
More revenue must be oriented sectors, or distortions in taxation

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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
that favor non tradables, all need to be addressed. In agriculture, reforms are
reduced to encourage exports. The overall required to unwind the subsidies and price
business environment needs to improve, restrictions that lock smallholder farmers into
especially for smaller firms; cutting red tape a low-value arming system and encourage
as well as opportunities for costly discretion resource-intensive and environmentally
in the government's dealing with businesses damaging production practices. Reforms in
is paramount. Durably addressing structural the energy sector should consolidate
macroeconomic imbalances, particularly on progress towards financial sustainability,
the fiscal, will remain a prerequisite to ensure improve the efficiency of distribution
a more stable economic environment to companies (including through increased
attract investors. private participation), and address the very
Reforms are required to high costs of electricity generation through
consolidate and increased renewable generation.
improve the quality of
government spending, The overall business
including by cutting environment needs to
regressive and improve, especially for
distortionary subsidies, smaller firms; cutting
and reduce losses from red tape as well as
inefficient state-owned opportunities for costly
enterprises, including in discretion in the
the energy sector. More government's dealing
revenue must be raised with businesses is
from the better-off, paramount. Durably
through increased addressing structural
progressive taxation of
macroeconomic
p r o p e r t y a n d
imbalances, particularly
environmentally-
damaging activities, as on the fiscal side, will
well as reducing tax remain a prerequisite to
exemptions. ensure a more stable
economic environment
Finally, policy failures and distortions in the to attract investors
critical agri-food and energy sectors must be

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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
The need for such policy shifts has been well few and hindering development.
established. But experience shows that any 3 Poverty Reduction Reversal:
reform efforts will face contestation and Despite initial progress, significant strides in
opposition. The question is whether those poverty reduction have started to reverse.
with power and influence will take the 4 Narrow Elite Benefit:
opportunity arising from the current crisis to Economic growth benefits have primarily
do what is needed. It is time for Pakistan to favored a limited elite, prompting the call for
come together in the interests of a brighter, policy change.
more prosperous, and more sustainable 5 Consensus for Action:
future. A consensus exists that urgent action is
Key Points: required to rectify detrimental policies and
1 Overview of World Bank's Assessment: foster sustainable growth.
The World Bank emphasizes the need for a 6 Climate Change Vulnerability:
revamped economic model in Pakistan. Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate
2 Current Economic Model Critique: change, with the impacts already evident.
Pakistan's existing economic model is 7 Agri-Food Sector Reforms:
deemed ineffective, benefiting only a select The World Bank stresses the need for reforms

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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

UNDP Article
in the agri-food sector, targeting subsidies and 14 Enhancing Export-Friendly Environment:
price restrictions. Distortions in taxation favoring non-tradables
8 Energy Sector Restructuring: need reduction to encourage exports.
Reforms in the energy sector are crucial for 15 Business Environment Improvement:
financial sustainability, efficiency improvement, The overall business environment, especially for
and increased private participation.
9 Challenges in Reform Efforts: smaller firms, requires improvement, involving the
Recognizing that reform efforts face opposition, reduction of red tape and costly discretion in
the World Bank questions whether influential government dealings.
entities will seize the current crisis as an 16 Addressing Macroeconomic Imbalances:
opportunity for change. Durably addressing structural macroeconomic
10 Fiscal Management Concerns: imbalances, particularly on the fiscal side, is
Drastic improvement in fiscal management is deemed crucial for a stable economic
urged, highlighting unsustainable debt servicing environment.
costs and the need for domestic revenue
17 Investor Attraction:
mobilization.
11 Government Spending Quality A stable economic environment is essential to
Enhancement: attract investors, making macroeconomic balance
Reforms are proposed to enhance the quality of a prerequisite.
government spending, including subsidy 18 Asian Development Bank's Perspective:
reduction and addressing inefficiencies in state- The Asian Development Bank underscores the
owned enterprises. importance of consistent country policies and
12 Progressive Taxation Advocacy: uninterrupted reform momentum for addressing
The World Bank recommends raising more economic challenges.
revenue from the affluent through progressive
19 ADB's Commitment to Pakistan:
taxation and reducing tax exemptions.
13 Call for a Dynamic and Open Economy: The ADB commits to being a key partner in
Improved living standards necessitate a more Pakistan's development, aiming for prosperity,
dynamic and open economy, reducing protection inclusiveness, resilience, and sustainability under
for inward-oriented sectors. the ADB Strategy 2030.

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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

General Elections 2024

From Pakistan and India to Indonesia, it prepares for its general election under an
opposition boycott and international pressure
Asia Set for Election-Packed 2024 on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to ensure a
free and fair vote.
The election is shaping up to be a repeat of
the 2014 polls, which were also considered
"one-sided" as the top opposition
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) sat out.
Likewise, the 2018 election was marred by
serious irregularities, including allegations of
ballot stuffing the night before voting began.
But while the problems are familiar, experts
say the stakes are higher than ever.

Over a billion people will be voting but

democracy questions cloud some races
Over a billion registered voters across the
Asia-Pacific region will go to the polls in a
slew of elections in 2024, deciding the
region's economic and diplomatic trajectory
for years to come.
People of Taiwan will face a defining moment
in Jan. 13's presidential election, the results of
which will have a huge bearing on how the
small self-ruled island interacts with the
superpower that claims it -- China. But that is
just one pivotal general election on a
calendar that includes the largest This election is going to be the "most
democracies in South and Southeast Asia, consequential" election of the country's
along with legislative polls from the Maldives history, "as it will determine whether an
to Mongolia. effective multiparty system will exist in future,
Here is a preview of some of the key polls the country will cross the Rubicon and
due in the year 2024 become an autocracy."
Hasina, who insists she defends democracy,
has refused the opposition's key demand that
she transfer power to a neutral caretaker
administration. Instead, authorities have jailed
thousands of BNP activists and their allies.
Meanwhile, the U.S. and European Union --
key markets for Bangladesh's garment
exports -- have made it clear they expect a
genuine democratic process. "I am afraid that
the international community will not accept
this election and there will be both political
and economic consequences," Riaz said.
Bangladesh (Jan. 7, 2024) "Unfortunately, the common people will bear
A sense of deja vu hangs over Bangladesh as the brunt of the economic downturn."
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

General Elections 2024

Pakistan (Feb. 8, 2024) The political party of the Pir of Pagaro, the
As Pakistan approaches its next general Pakistan Muslim League Functional (PML-F),
elections, with voting scheduled for February along with other Sindh based political parties,
8, 2024, the political landscape is buzzing have once again decided to jointly participate
with activity and intrigue. There is a sense of in the upcoming election from the platform
anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA).
fate of the country's economy and political Apart from the PML-F, the GDA, which came
stability. into being in 2017, comprises regional parties
like Qaumi Awami Tehreek, Sindh National
Front, Pakistan Peoples Party Workers,
Pakistan Peoples Party Shaheed Bhutto, and
the National Peoples Party. And all of them
have the same shared objective, like they did
back in the 2018 general election, of
countering the PPP's influence in the
province.
The GDA's efforts to woo electoral
heavyweights might not be enough to dent
the PPP's popularity. “There is no strong
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is likely to face political force against the PPP in Sindh. It's
several challenges that could have a popularly believed that the Bhutto factor are
significant impact on its political standing. the main reasons why Sindh votes for the
The ECP expected to oppose the PTI's intra- Pakistan People's Party (PPP).
party polls, potentially leading to stripping it
of its electoral symbol. As a result, PTI will
need to run its campaign under a new
symbol, which may affect the party's support
among voters.
In contrast, other mainstream political parties
like Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)
and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) are actively
working toward forming alliances to secure a
position where they have a chance to form
the government at the center.
The battle for Punjab, in particular, will be The political landscape in Pakistan has always
crucial in determining the final outcome. In been marked by its unpredictability, leaving
this regard, the political landscape is currently many citizens and observers questioning the
witnessing a tense dynamic between the PPP stability of the upcoming elections. In this
and PML-N. With the PPP primarily regard, the threat posed by militant groups
concentrated in Sindh and facing challenges like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
in forming crucial alliances with influential remains a cause of concern. Political parties
politicians in Punjab, the party is growing such as the PML-N, PPP, Awami National
increasingly frustrated. This frustration has Party (ANP), and Jamiat Uleme-e-Islam-Fazal
led to the PPP actively targeting the PML-N (JUI-F) are likely targets for militant groups.
and accusing it of allegedly receiving support Moreover, the confrontational politics of the
from the military establishment to revive its PTI has heightened apprehensions regarding
electoral fate in Punjab and elsewhere. the seamless execution of the polls. Khan's
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

General Elections 2024

incapacity to engage cooperatively with
political adversaries and his persistent discord
with state institutions have garnered
attention from both supporters and critics.
This confrontational stance not only impedes
efficient governance but also presents a
conceivable hindrance to his party's readiness
for the forthcoming elections.

Prabowo Subianto, former Central Java Gov.

Ganjar Pranowo and former Jakarta Gov.
Anies Baswedan, are vying to replace two-
term President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.
Still, in a poll conducted between Nov.23 and
Dec.1 by Indikator Politik Indonesia, 44.9% of
respondents said they would vote for third-
time presidential contender Prabowo's ticket,
while 24.7% backed the ruling party's Ganjar.
Anies stood in third place at 22.6%.
South Korea (April 10, 2024)
In April, South Koreans will vote in legislative
elections that will be key to deciding the fate
of the administration of President Yoon Suk
Yeol.
As Pakistan navigates through this uncertain
political landscape, it is crucial for all
stakeholders involved to prioritize dialogue,
cooperation, and respect for democratic
processes. The stakes are high, and the
outcome of these elections will have far-
reaching implications for both the nation's
economy and its overall political landscape.
Political stability is the main prerequisite for
economic growth. General elections in
[February 8] will restore confidence, while a
Since taking office last year, Yoon has been
delay will cause a negative spiral effect,
unable to pass legislation due to the
worsening the country's politics and
opposition Democratic Party holding a
economics.
majority in the National Assembly, with 167
Indonesia (Feb. 14, 2024) out of 298 seats. His People Power Party will
More than 200 million people are eligible to have to make gains to have hope of
cast ballots in Indonesia's election on Feb. 14, accomplishing much throughout the
making it the world's largest direct remainder of Yoon's single five-year term.
presidential vote. South Korean politics tend to move quickly,
Three candidates, including Defense Minister and much can change between now and
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

General Elections 2024

April, but early signs are not encouraging for Bharatiya Janata Party workers as they celebrate
Yoon's party. His approval ratings have been their victory in key state elections on Dec. 3.
stuck at around 35% throughout his term and When five states held elections in November,
he lacks a signature achievement to highlight the BJP swept the three in the politically crucial
in seeking a stronger mandate from voters. Hindi-speaking heartland. The opposition
"The Democratic Party wants to win these alliance showed little coordination, and it
elections because they want to make Yoon a continues to lack a clear strategy for countering
lame duck president, and the People Power the BJP's Hindu nationalism and the slew of
welfare programs the Modi government has
Party because they know they can't pursue
launched.
their domestic agenda if they lose," Mason The INDIA coalition -- which includes some
Richey, a professor of politics at Hankuk parties that are bitter rivals in certain states --
University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, told has yet to even name a prime ministerial
Nikkei Asia. candidate.
India (April-May 2024) While much could change over the next few
The general election in the world's most months, "the BJP is extremely well-placed to
populous nation and largest democracy is win the 2024 elections," said Praveen Rai, a
due to be spread over several weeks in April political analyst with the New Delhi-based
and May. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Centre for the Study of Developing Societies.
his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be Sri Lanka (before September 2024)
seeking a third straight five-year term in Sometime in 2024, the disgruntled nation of 22
power. million should have a chance to elect its next
president and parliament.
Sri Lanka is still struggling to escape the worst
economic crisis in its history after plunging into
sovereign default last year. But the government
of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who
replaced Gotabaya Rajapaksa after he resigned
amid huge protests, has set aside 10 billion
rupees ($30.5 million) for the 2024 elections,
due before September.
Wickremesinghe has not officially declared his
candidacy but is widely expected to enter the
race and argue that he played a pivotal role in
The South Asian nation of 1.4 billion people averting even more severe financial turmoil.
has a staggering 950 million registered A vendor sells vegetables in Colombo in early
voters. Modi, who is now 73, remains widely December. Sri Lanka is trying to pull itself out
popular among them, while the opposition of a serious economic crisis.
has struggled to gain traction. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa is poised to
In an effort to mount a stronger challenge make another bid for the presidency after
against the BJP, over two dozen opposition losing to Rajapaksa in 2019. On the other hand,
parties formed an alliance called INDIA -- Rajapaksa's Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party
short for the Indian National Developmental remains undecided on its potential candidate.
Inclusive Alliance. The group includes the There is also speculation about possible
main opposition party, the Indian National coalitions, as well as the potential entry of
Congress, which hopes to return to its heyday business tycoon Dhammika Perera into the
race.
as the country's dominant party.
At the legislative level, analysts expect a hung
Recent signs have not been encouraging for
parliament, with no single party securing the
Modi's opponents, however. 113 seats required for a simple majority in the
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets 225-seat chamber. ".
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International Affairs
China's Economic Diplomacy promised the PICs with developmental aid
worth millions of dollars, along with
in Polynesia and Micronesia assistance from Chinese state and private
companies in the construction of
developmental infrastructure.
To that effect, between 2013-2023, China
invested in Samoa (US$ 2.34 billion), FSM
(US$ 2 billion), Marshall Islands (US$ 1.7
billion), Kiribati (US$ 1.19 billion) and Cook
Islands (US$ 0.5 billion).
Chinese aid and investments have spanned
several economic sectors in these countries.
Beijing's state-owned corporations have built
roads, railways, airport strips, social
China has emerged as an important partner infrastructure (schools, hospitals, affordable
for the Micronesian and Polynesian regions housing), and renewable energy
through its cooperative efforts. The Chinese infrastructure worth US$ 1 billion across the
investments focus on the strategic and geo- Polynesian and Micronesian islands.
economic implications of these regions. To that effect, between 2013-2023, China
For the first time since the end of World War invested in Samoa (US$ 2.34 billion), FSM
II, Oceania has regained its strategic (US$ 2 billion), Marshall Islands (US$ 1.7
significance. The vast region encompassing billion), Kiribati (US$ 1.19 billion) and Cook
Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia, and Islands (US$ 0.5 billion). Chinese aid and
Australasia, constitutes 16 countries, some of investments spanned several economic
which have the world's largest exclusive sectors in these countries
economic zones (EEZs) because of the Beijing's Positive Economic Statecraft
region's island geography. The Blue Pacific (PES) in Micronesia and Polynesia
Continent is also a trove of unexplored blue The quid pro quo relationship between China
economy sources and natural deep-sea ports. and the Pacific Island states wherein Beijing
In recent years, the United States (US), influences the latter's policy imperatives and
Australia, Japan, New Zealand, France, and influences their government's behaviour
Taiwan have intensified their engagement in through positive economic endowments such
the region, partly in response to China's as import duty concessions, developmental
growing interest in the area. Beijing's aid, concessional loans and infrastructure
collaborative efforts in the region highlight a development is a prime instance of China's
potent two-pronged strategy, comprising PES. However, besides these conventional
diplomatic and economic engagement. instruments of PES, China has also signed
Implication of Chinese Investments in numerous Economic and Technical
Micronesia and Polynesia: Cooperation Agreements (ETCAs) with these
th
In January 2020, Kiribati became the 10 six island countries. Under these ETCAs,
Pacific Island country (PIC) to join Beijing's Beijing has allocated funds for furthering
transnational infrastructure and connectivity local capacity-building and development in
initiative the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). eight economic sectors. Chinese ETCAs
Kiribati followed countries like Samoa, the between 2017 and 2022 amounted to US$
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Tonga 385 million.
and Niue which joined the BRI in 2019. Pakistan's Role in the Indo-Pacific Region:
During the Second Belt and Road Forum held The key narrative of the 21st century is
in 2019, Chinese government officials shifting away from U.S. military dominance
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

International Affairs
and Israeli actions, focusing instead on the focuses on maritime policy planning. The
rise of the East led by Russia and China. The country's historical "maritime blindness" is
recent Gaza crisis exposes an unjust global attributed to land-oriented perspectives. To
order favoring the West. The robust enhance ties with the U.S. outside the lens of
partnership between Russia and China China, Pakistan considers conditional
provides hope for the developing world. engagement in the evolving Indo-Pacific
Pakistan can play a crucial role in this alliance, discourse.
capitalizing on its deep-sea ports and 3. U.S.-Pakistan Engagement: A Strategic
contributing to regional security. The shift Shift
towards Russia and China aligns with
Pakistan's need for a transition from geo- Washington's Indo-Pacific strategy has faced
strategic to geo-economic focus. The criticism for neglecting the Indian Ocean.
military's support in civilianizing foreign Recognizing Pakistan's role in shaping
policy and engaging in regional cooperation regional maritime geopolitics, the U.S. can
is essential for Pakistan's credibility in the leverage this momentum. Multi-country naval
evolving geopolitical landscape. exercises and power coalitions in the Arabian
Sea indicate opportunities for Pakistan to play
1. Indo-Pacific Omission: Pakistan's a greater role in regional coalition building.
Position and U.S. Opportunities
4. Economic Diversification: Pakistan's
Despite its strategic location in the Indian Indo-Pacific Engagement
Ocean, Pakistan is not mentioned in the U.S.
Pakistan, hesitant due to its close ties with
Indo-Pacific strategy. The evolving U.S.-China
China, can benefit from economic
rivalry affects South Asian geopolitics, with
diversification. Reviving its ties with Southeast
India aligning more closely with the U.S.
Asia through ASEAN and exploring select
However, Pakistan, a key ally of China, is wary
pillars of the Indo-Pacific Economic Forum
of being part of any strategy perceived as
(IPEF) align with Pakistan's economic
encircling Beijing.
interests. Amid rising U.S.-China competition,
2. Pivoting to Geo-Economics: Pakistan's maintaining an independent foreign policy
Maritime Policy becomes crucial for Pakistan.
Pakistan, aiming for a geo-economic shift,

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International Affairs
Conclusion instance, Kiribati's unique position makes it a
China has become a contentious yet focal point in the Pacific. China is now
significant player in Micronesia and Polynesia, exploring economic opportunities in the
intensifying collaborative efforts crucial to its untapped blue economy resources of these
global ascendancy. The Blue Pacific region regions. With diplomatic successes and
holds substantial influence in international deepening bilateral ties, China's influence is
forums, providing China with crucial backing growing, challenging the U.S., Australia, and
on key issues like Taiwan, Hong Kong, and their allies to enhance developmental aid
Xinjiang human rights violations. Additionally, efforts or risk losing strategic leverage to
strategically located islands in Polynesia and Beijing's economic maneuvers.
Micronesia offer geopolitical advantages. For

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International Affairs
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) (C) Cultural diplomacy
(D) Space exploration
on China's Economic Diplomacy Answer: (B)
in Polynesia & Micronesia 7 What role does Pakistan play in shaping
regional maritime geopolitics,?
1 What does the Blue Pacific Continent (A) Marginal role
encompass? (B) Central role
(A) North America (C) Observer role
(B) Melanesia, Micronesia, Polynesia, and (D) Non-participatory role
Australasia Answer: (B)
(C) Europe 8 Which economic forum is mentioned as a
(D) South America potential avenue for Pakistan's economic
Answer: (B) engagement in the Indo-Pacific?
2 Why has Oceania regained its strategic (A) G7 Economic Forum
significance? (B) Indo-Pacific Economic Forum (IPEF)
(A) Due to military dominance (C) BRICS Economic Forum
(B) Economic downturn in other regions (D) Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
(C) Extensive exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and Answer: (B)
9 What geopolitical advantage do strategically
island geography
located islands in Polynesia and Micronesia
(D) Decline in global trade
offer?
Answer: ©
(A) Vast deserts
3 Which country became the 10th Pacific
(B) Untapped blue economy resources
Island country to join the Belt and Road (C) Dense forests
Initiative (BRI) in January 2020? (D) Mountainous terrain
(A) Tonga Answer: (B)
(B) Kiribati 10 What is the primary focus of China's
(C) Samoa collaborative efforts in Micronesia and
(D) Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Polynesia?
Answer: (B) (A) Military dominance
4 What is the primary focus of China's Positive (B) Cultural exchange
Economic Statecraft (PES) in Micronesia and (C) Economic and diplomatic engagement
Polynesia? (D) Environmental conservation
(A) Military dominance Answer: (C)
(B) Diplomatic isolation 11 Why is Pakistan wary of being part of any
(C) Economic endowments and influence strategy perceived as encircling Beijing?
(D) Cultural exchange programs (A) Due to historical conflicts
Answer: © (B) Geopolitical considerations
5 What does the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy (C) Economic dependence on China
omit concerning Pakistan? (D) Cultural differences
(A) Maritime policy Answer: ©
(B) Economic diversification 12 What region is highlighted as a significant
(C) Geo-economic shift focus of the 21st century narrative, shifting
(D) Geostrategic considerations away from U.S. military dominance and Israeli
Answer: (D) actions?
6 What shift in focus is Pakistan aiming for in (A) Europe
its maritime policy? (B) Middle East
(A) Military dominance (C) East led by Russia and China
(B) Geo-economic shift (D) South America
Answer: (C)
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

International Affairs
Italy Withdraws from Belt & The MOU was set to expire in March 2024,
and Italy decided not to renew it due to
Road Initiative perceived lack of economic benefits and
shifting geopolitical dynamics. Italy aims to
align more openly with the U.S., signal its
NATO allegiance, and strengthen its position
within the increasingly China-skeptic
European Union.
Italy's withdrawal weakens China's global
support argument for the BRI, especially
during heightened tensions and the EU-China
summit. While Italy may navigate its
relationship with China carefully, the decision
reinforces transatlantic relations, challenges
On December 6, 2023, the Italian government the BRI's global image, and signals Italy's
formally announced that Italy will not renew commitment to aligning with the West amid
the 2019 memorandum of understanding geopolitical tensions.
(MOU) regarding its formal participation in
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This Bilateral Trade Deficit and Lack of
move effectively withdraws Italy from Investment:
President Xi Jinping's flagship diplomatic Italian exports to China were worth €16.4bn
initiative first announced a decade ago. in 2022, as compared to €13bn in 2019.
Through the BRI, China has become a major On the other hand, Chinese exports to Italy
international lender and funded many rose to €57.5bn from €31.7bn over the same
infrastructure projects predominantly in period, leading to an economic imbalance.
developing countries, which has created The investments that were promised in Italian
controversy for China and other countries ports were never achieved.
associated with the program. Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in
Reason behind Italy's Withdrawal From the Italy dropped from $650 million in 2019 to
BRI: $33 million in 2021, signaling limited
economic benefits.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Only a fraction of the up to €20bn worth of
was a symbolic agreement between Italy and
China, signed during President Xi Jinping's investment in Italy promised by China in 2019
visit in March 2019. It focused on cooperation was materialized.
within the framework of the Silk Road China trades far more with EU members like
Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime December 2023/Issue-0225 France and
Silk Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to enhance Germany, even though these countries are
China's global image as a provider of public not members of the BRI.
goods. Italy's entry into BRI was aimed at attracting
investment and expanding exports into
The MOU's signing by Italy, the first G7 China's market, but the initiative failed to
country to join BRI, raised concerns in the meet expectations.
West about a shift in historical partnerships.
Global Scenario:
Over time, the BRI became associated with
Since Italy will hold the G7 presidency next
unsustainable debt and geopolitical
year, this announcement could hold Rome in
challenges, leading Italy to decide not to
renew the MOU. Additionally, changing U.S. good stead with its Western allies.
and EU tensions with China influenced Italy's India announced the new India-Middle East-
decision. Europe economic corridor in September,

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International Affairs
which is being dubbed as a game changer. 102nd out of 125 countries in the Global
Leaders of India, the United States, Saudi Hunger Index, highlighting the severity of the
Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, problem.
Germany, Italy, and the European Union Given Pakistan's complex challenges, the Belt
jointly unveiled this mega economic corridor and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly the
on 9 September at the sidelines of Day 1 of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC),
the G20 Summit. offers solutions. BRI 2.0 provides economic
Nations have borrowed heavily from China revival opportunities for Pakistan through
for BRI projects, and they now face projects like ML-1, enhancing the railway
challenges in repaying these loans. This has network and creating jobs. Additionally,
led to accusations of “debt trap diplomacy”. President Xi's "small but beautiful" initiative
presents chances for Pakistan to address
societal needs, improve livelihoods, and
counter anti-CPEC sentiments. Programs for
sectors like agriculture and tourism can
benefit from capacity-building initiatives,
aligning with BRI's future focus on green
development. China is ready for
collaboration, emphasizing the need for
Pakistan to enhance its working environment
and implementation plans to fully capitalize
on these opportunities.

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

on Italy Withdraws from Belt and
Road Initiative
Pakistan and BRI
Launched by President Zardari in 2013, CPEC, 1 Why did Italy announce its withdrawal
a flagship project of the BRI, is a corridor from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
linking Pakistan's southwest Gwadar port with (A) Economic benefits from the BRI were not
Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur realized.
Autonomous Region, highlighting energy, (B) The Memorandum of Understanding
transport, and industrial cooperation. (MOU) expired.
Pakistan is grappling with economic, (C) Shifting geopolitical dynamics influenced
environmental, and social issues that have the decision.
become increasingly complex in recent years. (D) All of the above.
Poverty is on the rise, and the government Answer: (D)
faces limited options to combat it. According 2 What was the significance of the MOU
to the latest World Bank report, signed by Italy in 2019?
approximately 39.4% of the population lives (A) It focused on cooperation within the Silk
below the poverty line, amounting to 95 Road Economic Belt.
million people. It is alarming that an (B) It marked a shift in historical partnerships.
additional 12 million people fell into poverty (C) It raised concerns about unsustainable
during the last fiscal year. Food insecurity has debt.
been a persistent issue in Pakistan, with (D) A and B.
roughly 58.8% of the population experiencing Answer: (D)
it prior to the 2022 floods. Pakistan ranks
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International Affairs
3 What influenced Italy's decision not to 7 What initiative was announced by India in
renew the MOU in 2023? September that is seen as a game-changer?
(A) Bilateral trade deficit and lack of Chinese (A) Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
investment. (B) China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
(B) The EU-China summit. (C) India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor.
(C) Changing U.S. and EU tensions with China. (D) Global Hunger Index (GHI).
(D) A and C. Answer: (C)
Answer: (D) 8 What is the primary focus of the China-
4 How did Italy's withdrawal impact China's Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)?
global support for the BRI? (A) Industrial cooperation.
(A) Strengthened China's argument for BRI. (B) Energy.
(B) Reinforced transatlantic relations. (C) Transport.
(C) Challenged the BRI's global image. (D) All of the above.
(D) None of the above. Answer: (D)
Answer: (C) 9 What sector does President Xi's "small but
5 What economic imbalance did Italy face in beautiful" initiative focus on for societal needs
its trade with China? and livelihood improvement?
(A) Excessive Chinese exports to Italy. (A) Technology.
(B) Higher Italian exports to China. (B) Agriculture.
(C) Balanced trade relations. (C) Mining.
(D) Decreased Chinese investments. (D) Manufacturing.
Answer: (A) Answer: (B)
6 How did China's Foreign Direct Investment 10 What is China's readiness for collaboration
(FDI) in Italy change from 2019 to 2021? with Pakistan contingent upon?
(A) Increased substantially. (A) Enhanced working environment.
(B) Remained constant. (B) Implementation plans.
(C) Decreased significantly. (C) Both A and B.
(D) None of the above. (D) None of the above.
Answer: (C) Answer: (C)

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International Affairs
Article 99 of UN Charter variety of issues. The Charter is considered an
international treaty, meaning that UN
on Gaza member states are bound by it.
Article 99 of the Charter states that 'The
Secretary-General may bring to the attention
of the Security Council any matter which in
his opinion may endanger the maintenance
of international peace and security.'
In a 1945 report by the Preparatory
Commission of United Nations, it was noted
that this article would necessitate the
Secretary-General to demonstrate exceptional
political judgment, tact, and integrity to fulfil
the assigned responsibility.
Can Guterres' Utilization of According to the United Nations, if the
Secretary-General brings a matter to the
UN's Article 99 Contribute attention of the Council under Article 99, it is
the responsibility of the President of the
to Peace? Security Council to call a meeting of the
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has Council.
invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter to Article 99 was initially invoked in response to
establish a ceasefire amid the ongoing war the post-colonial unrest in the Republic of
Congo following the end of Belgian rule in
between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, 1960, and subsequently, following Tunisia's
especially in its southern sector. In a letter complaint against the French Navy and Air
addressed to the President of the UN Security Force attack in 1961. Since then, this article
Council, Guterres urged the Council to help has been utilized in situations involving East
avert a humanitarian catastrophe and Pakistan (1971), Iran (1979), and Lebanon
(1989).
appealed for a humanitarian ceasefire in
Gaza.
Gaza faces an imminent humanitarian
catastrophe, with over a million people in
distress. Guterres labeled Israel's actions as
war crimes, emphasizing the need for
impartial action without prejudice. Israeli
Foreign Minister Eli Cohen dismissed
Guterres' initiative, claiming it aids Hamas, a
viewpoint criticized by the Secretary-General.
Guterres warned of Gaza's potential
breakdown, urging effective protection for
civilians and highlighting the alarming
collapse of the humanitarian system.
What is Article 99 of the United Nations
Charter?
The United Nations Charter is the founding
document of the United Nations which grants
power to the United Nations to act on a wide
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

International Affairs
About United Nations Security Council Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
(UNSC):
¾ UNSC is one of the 6 main organs of the on Article 99 of UN Charter on
United Nations. It consists of five permanent Gaza
members including the United States, the
United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia, 1. What is the primary purpose of Article
while 10 non-permanent members are 99 of the United Nations Charter?
elected by the General Assembly for two-year (A) Authorizing military interventions
terms on a rotational basis. It is chaired by (B) Ensuring human rights protection
each of these 15 members for one month. (C) Bringing attention to matters endangering
Currently, the South American country international peace
Ecuador holds the presidency for December (D) Establishing diplomatic relations
2023. Answer: (C)
2. How many non-permanent members
does the United Nations Security Council
(UNSC) have?
(A) 5
(B) 10
(C) 15
(D) 20
Answer: (B)
3. Which country currently holds the
presidency of the UNSC for December
2023?
(A) China
(B) Russia
(C) United States
(D) Ecuador
Answer: (D)
Pakistan's Stand
Pakistan welcomed the decision taken by the
UN chief to invoke Article 99 of the UN
Charter to bring to the attention of the UN
Security Council the dire security situation
and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza
due to Israeli occupation forces continued
massacre of the Palestinian people. Pakistan
stated that the UN Security Council must
perform its primary responsibility under the
Charter, impose an immediate and
unconditional ceasefire and protect the 4. When was Article 99 of the UN Charter
people of Gaza from an impending genocide. first invoked in response to a situation in
Durable peace in the region would emerge East Pakistan?
from the internationally agreed two-state (A) 1960
solution and from the creation of a secure, (B) 1971
viable, contiguous, and sovereign state of (C) 1989
Palestine on the basis of the pre-June 1967 (D) 1995
borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. Answer: (B)

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International Affairs
5. What did UN Secretary-General Antonio 8. In the context of the UN Charter, what
Guterres label Israel's actions as in the does Article 99 empower the Secretary-
Gaza Strip? General to do?
(A) Humanitarian efforts (A) Declare war
(B) War crimes (B) Implement economic sanctions
(C) Diplomatic resolutions (C) Bring matters to the attention of the
(D) Counterterrorism operations Security Council
Answer: (B) (D) Veto Security Council resolutions
Answer: (C)
9. How many countries are permanent
members of the UNSC?
(A) 5
(B) 10
(C) 15
(D) 20
Answer: (A)
10. Who dismissed UN Secretary-General
6. What is the main focus of the 2023 Antonio Guterres' initiative for a ceasefire,
SOFA report regarding hidden costs in claiming it aids Hamas?
agri-food systems? (A) China
(A) Environmental impact (B) Russia
(B) Economic growth (C) Israel
(C) Human rights (D) United States
(D) Technological advancements Answer: ©
Answer: (A) 11. What is the primary focus of the "small
7. What does Pakistan emphasize for a but beautiful" initiatives?
durable peace in the Gaza region? (A) Military advancements
(A) Military intervention (B) Funding small programs addressing
(B) Two-state solution societal needs
(C) Economic sanctions (C) Space exploration
(D) Diplomatic isolation (D) Cybersecurity
Answer: (B) Answer: (B)

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International Organizations
Pakistan Secures 38-18 Victory · The Pakistani candidate received 38
Over India in UNESCO's Executive votes, while the Indian candidate
Board Vice Chair position received only 18.
· This outcome is considered a major
setback for Indian diplomats at the
UN, prompting the Indian Ministry of
External Affairs and Human Resource
Development ministry to assess the
reasons behind the defeat and its
potential impact.
· The elected Pakistani vice chair
expressed gratitude for the
overwhelming support from the
executive board members and all
The elections were held at the 218th Session UNESCO member states,
of the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, emphasizing Pakistan's commitment
Scientific and Cultural Organization) Executive to fulfilling its responsibilities with
Board in Paris. credibility, honest dialogue, and
Of the 58-member Executive Board, mutual respect.
Pakistan secured 38 votes as compared to · The defeat is seen as a rare failure for
India's 18. Indian diplomats who have previously
This recent victory follows Pakistan's earlier celebrated victories in various UN and
success during the UNESCO General international organizations.
Conference, where it was re-elected to the
Executive Board in elections held on
November 15, 2023.
UNESCO's Executive Board plays an
important role in shaping the organization's
policies and programmes. Pakistan's re-
election is the best proof of Pakistan's
longstanding support and constructive role in
the United Nations.
Pakistan will play an important role in global
advocacy and cooperation on issues of
education, culture, science and
communication. Membership of the Executive
Board of UNESCO will provide Pakistan with
Some Facts about UNESCO:
an excellent opportunity to enhance its
· The United Nations Educational,
diplomatic relations and cooperation with
other member countries. Scientific and Cultural Organization
As a member of the Executive Board and (UNESCO) operates as a specialized
Vice-Chairman, Pakistan will try to strengthen agency within the United Nations
contacts among all countries, to reach (UN), striving to foster global peace
concrete results on various issues and to through collaborative efforts in the
establish consensus on key issues for their fields of Education, Sciences, and
actions. Culture.
· Pakistan secured a significant victory · UNESCO was founded in 1945 as the
over India in the recent UNESCO executive successor to the League of Nations'

31 www.csstimes.pk
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

International Organizations
International Committee on Intellectual
Cooperation
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
· It has194 member states and 12 on Pakistan Secures 38-18 Victory
associate members, as well as Over India in UNESCO
partners in the non-governmental,
intergovernmental, and private 1 When were the elections held for the
sector UNESCO Executive Board?
· Membership of UNESCO is governed A) November 15, 2023
by Articles II and XV of the B) November 18, 2023
Constitution and by rules 98 to 101 C) November 20, 2023
of the Rules of Procedure of the D) November 22, 2023
General Conference. Answer: A)
· Membership of the United Nations 2 How many members are there in the
carries with it the right to UNESCO Executive Board?
membership of UNESCO. A) 38
· States that are not members of the B) 48
United Nations may be admitted to C) 58
UNESCO, upon recommendation of D) 68
the Executive Board, by a two-thirds Answer: C)
majority vote of the General 3 In the recent UNESCO executive board
Conference. election, how many votes did Pakistan
· Three UNESCO member states are not secure?
UN members: Cook Islands, Niue, A) 28
and Palestine. B) 38
· Two UN member states Israel and C) 48
Liechtenstein are not UNESCO D) 58
members Answer: B)
· UNESCO is governed by the General 4 What was the margin of victory for
Conference, composed of member Pakistan over India in the UNESCO
states and associate members, which executive board election for the post of
meets biannually to set the agency's vice-chair?
programmes and the budget. A) 10 votes
· It also elects members of the B) 15 votes
Executive Board, which manages C) 20 votes
UNESCO's work, and appoints every D) 25 votes
four years a Director-General, who Answer: A)
serves as UNESCO's chief 5 When was UNESCO founded as the
administrator successor to the League of Nations'
Key Reports Published by UNESCO International Committee on Intellectual
· Global Education Monitoring Report Cooperation?
· The United Nations World Water A) 1930
Development Report B) 1945
· World Trends in Freedom of C) 1955
Expression and Media Development D) 1965
· Global Ocean Science Report Answer: B)

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International Organizations
6 How many member states does UNESCO 10 Which states are not members of the
have? United Nations but are admitted to UNESCO?
A) 182 A) Palestine
B) 194 B) Cook Islands and Niue
C) 206 C) Israel and Liechtenstein
D) 218 D) All of the above
Answer: B) Answer: B)
7 Which of the following is a key report 11 What is the major role of UNESCO's
published by UNESCO? Executive Board?
A) Global Climate Change Report A) Financial management
B) World Trends in Freedom of Expression and B) Cultural preservation
Media Development C) Shaping organization's policies and programs
C) International Economic Outlook Report D) Environmental protection
Answer: C)
D) Global Sports Development Report
12 Why did the Indian Ministry of External
Answer: B)
Affairs assess the recent UNESCO election
8 What is the primary focus of UNESCO's
defeat?
work? A) To evaluate global diplomatic relations
A) Economics B) To assess the impact on environmental policies
B) Education, Sciences, and Culture C) To understand the reasons behind the defeat
C) Agriculture D) To celebrate diplomatic victories
D) Defense Answer: C)
Answer: B) 13 What role will Pakistan play as a member of
9 How often does the General Conference of the UNESCO Executive Board and Vice-
UNESCO meet to set the agency's programs Chairman?
and budget? A) Enhancing diplomatic relations and
A) Annually cooperation
B) Biannually B) Solely focusing on environmental issues
C) Quarterly C) Managing financial resources
D) Every four years D) Leading military initiatives
Answer: B) Answer: A)

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International Organizations
91st Interpol cooperation: "No country or region should be
left behind in the fight against crime." Jürgen
General Assembly in Vienna Stock, Secretary General of INTERPOL,
emphasized the importance of cooperation in
the fight against organized crime.
Delegates will address a wide range of issues
including transnational organized crime,
environmental crime, the fight against the
spread of child pornography and the use of
technology and new cooperation
mechanisms by law enforcement agencies.
Highlights of the event will include a
discussion on INTERPOL's Vision 2030,
· Centennial Celebration: 2023 which will serve to set the strategic direction
commemorates Interpol's 100-year of the organization for the coming decade.
anniversary, a significant milestone in This General Assembly is not only a look back
international law enforcement. at a century of international crime fighting,
· Hosted in Vienna: The special General but also a platform to define INTERPOL's
Assembly takes place in Vienna, future role and challenges. The commitment
Austria, acknowledging the city's of the Vienna police, which led to the
historical significance as Interpol's founding of INTERPOL in 1923, will be
birthplace in 1923. honored, while today Austria is a strong
partner in the fight against transnational
The General Assembly is INTERPOL's crime. The Federal Criminal Police Office,
supreme governing body and comprises which acts as the national office of Interpol,
delegates appointed by the governments of plays a central role in international criminal
our member countries. police cooperation.
It meets once a year and takes all the major The General Assembly is a testament to the
decisions affecting general policy, the continued importance of INTERPOL in an
resources needed for international ever-changing world and underlines the
cooperation, working methods, finances and ongoing efforts to strengthen international
programmes of activities. These decisions are cooperation and effectively counter global
in the form of resolutions. security threats.
The General Assembly, INTERPOL's supreme During the four-day conference that runs
decision-making body, deals with from 28 November to 1 December, senior
fundamental decisions on policy, police officials from around the world will
international cooperation, working methods, address current and emerging threats,
finances and activity programs. This year's including the significant growth of
focus is on bridging INTERPOL's past and transnational organized crime.
future and adapting to the changing criminal Key Highlights of the 91st Interpol General
environment through technology and new Assembly
cooperation mechanisms. · During the 91st Interpol General
The event was opened by Austrian Chancellor Assembly, resolutions were passed to
Karl Nehammer and Franz Ruf, Director strengthen the collaborative response
General of Public Security. INTERPOL to disrupt financial crime and
President Ahmed Naser al-Raisi corruption, combat online child
emphasized the importance of international sexual exploitation, and promote

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International Organizations
diversity within Interpol itself. · Red Notice (Wanted Persons): A Red
· The delegation engaged in discussions Notice is a request to law
with law enforcement agencies from enforcement worldwide to locate and
various countries on coordinated provisionally arrest a person pending
strategies to combat organized crime, extradition, surrender, or similar legal
terrorism, drug trafficking, money action.
laundering, online radicalization, and · INTERPOL Notices are international
cyber-enabled financial crimes. requests for cooperation or alerts
· They also advocated for real-time allowing police in member countries to
prevention of these crimes. share critical crime-related
· The delegation supported the information.
adoption of Interpol's Vision 2030 o The International Criminal Police
and the establishment of the Interpol Organization (INTERPOL) is an
Future Council. intergovernmental organization that
· What is the Interpol?
helps coordinate the police force of
· The International Criminal Police
194 member countries.
Organization is an inter-
governmental organization with 195 o Each of the member countries
member countries. hosts an INTERPOL National
o Goal: Help police in all member Central Bureau (NCB). This
countries work together to connects their national law
make the world safer. enforcement with other
o Function: It enables members countries and with the General
to share and access data on Secretariat.
crimes and criminals, offering o The General Secretariat
technical and operational provides a range of expertise
support. and services to the member
· Pakistan and Interpol: Pakistan countries.
joined Interpol in 1952 and is o It is headquartered in Lyon,
one of its oldest members. France

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International Organizations
· Notices can also be used by the United 4 What decisions does the General
Nations, International Criminal Tribunals Assembly make, and in what form are
and the International Criminal Court to these decisions presented?
seek persons wanted for committing (A) Laws in the form of statutes
crimes within their jurisdiction, notably (B) Resolutions
genocide, war crimes, and crimes against (C) Executive orders
humanity. (D) Directives
· Other Notices by Interpol: Answer: (B)
o Yellow: Missing persons 5 What is the focus of this year's General
o Blue: Additional information Assembly, and why is it significant?
o Black Notice: Unidentified bodies (A) Regional cooperation
o Green Notice: Warnings and (B) Bridging past and future
intelligence (C) Counterterrorism strategies
o Orange notice: Imminent threat (D) Financial audits
o Purple Notice: Modus operandi Answer: (B)
ICPC was renamed in 1956 as ICPO (International 6 Who opened the event, and what key
Criminal Police Organization). The National message did Interpol President Ahmed
Central Bureau (NCB) Pakistan was set up in 1957 Naser al-Raisi emphasize?
under the constitution of the ICPO. (A) US President Joe Biden
(B) Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) (C) Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock
on 91st Interpol General Assembly (D) Russian President Vladimir Putin
Answer: (B)
in Vienna 7 What topics will the delegates address
1 What is the significance of the year 2023 during the General Assembly?
for Interpol? (A) Space exploration
(A) Centennial Celebration (B) Environmental protection
(B) Golden Jubilee (C) Transnational organized crime
(C) Diamond Anniversary (D) Art and culture
(D) Silver Jubilee Answer: (C)
Answer: (A) 8 What is the significance of the discussion
2 Where is the special General Assembly on INTERPOL's Vision 2030 during the
held, and why is this location significant event?
for Interpol? (A) Setting organizational budget
(A) Paris, France (B) Defining strategic direction
(B) Vienna, Austria (C) Selecting new leadership
(C) London, UK (D) Discussing member countries'
(D) Rome, Italy contributions
Answer: (B) Answer: (B)
3 How often does the General Assembly, 9 What resolutions were passed during the
INTERPOL's supreme governing body, 91st Interpol General Assembly, and what
convene? do they aim to strengthen?
(A) Twice a year (A) Resolutions on climate change
(B) Once every two years (B) Strengthening financial crime response
(C) Once a year (C) Promoting tourism
(D) Every four years (D) Enhancing sports cooperation
Answer: (C) Answer: (B)

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10 How many member countries does Interpol established in 1968
have, and what is its primary goal? Answer: (B)
(A) 150 member countries, promoting peace 16 When did Interpol officially open the
(B) 195 member countries, making the world safer Interpol Global Complex for Innovation (IGCI)
(C) 100 member countries, fostering economic in Singapore?
cooperation (A) 2011
(D) 180 member countries, advancing education (B) 2014
Answer: (B) (C) 2015
11 When did Pakistan join Interpol, and what (D) 2019
is its status as a member?
Answer: (C)
(A) 1960, newest member
17 What is the primary purpose of the Interpol
(B) 1952, oldest member
Global Complex for Innovation (IGCI)?
(C) 1980, suspended member
(A) Regional coordination
(D) 2000, observer member
Answer: (B) (B) Digital crimes investigations
12 What is a Red Notice, and how does it (C) Humanitarian aid
function within Interpol? (D) Environmental conservation
(A) An emergency alert system Answer: (B)
(B) A global weather warning 18 How many special representative offices
(C) A request for international cooperation does Interpol have according to the
(D) A travel advisory information provided?
Answer: (C) (A) Two
13 What are INTERPOL Notices, and what (B) Three
critical information do they allow member (C) Four
countries to share? (D) Five
(A) Notices for cultural exchange Answer: (B)
(B) Notices for educational programs 19 In which month and year was the IGCI
(C) Notices for sharing crime-related information officially opened?
(D) Notices for sports events (A) September 2011
Answer: (C) (B) April 2015
14 What do the different colors of INTERPOL (C) September 2014
Notices represent?
(D) October 2004
(A) Political affiliations
Answer: (B)
(B) Types of crimes
20 What type of facility is the Interpol Global
(C) Member countries' flags
(D) Seasons of the year Complex for Innovation (IGCI)?
Answer: (B) (A) Training center
15 When was the International Criminal Police (B) Research and development facility
Organization (ICPC) renamed, and when was (C) Regional bureau
the National Central Bureau (NCB) Pakistan (D) Command and Coordination Centre
established? Answer: (B)
(A) ICPC renamed in 1960; NCB Pakistan 21 In 2019, what portion of Interpol's income
established in 1975 consisted of voluntary cash contributions?
(B) ICPC renamed in 1956; NCB Pakistan (A) 24%
established in 1957 (B) 35%
(C) ICPC renamed in 1980; NCB Pakistan (C) 41%
established in 1985 (D) 30%
(D) ICPC renamed in 1965; NCB Pakistan Answer: (B)
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International Organizations
“5Fs” crisis – Food, Feed, Fuel, Fertilizers, and
FAO Report on Healthy Diet Finance. The protracted effects of these crises
are still evident.
In 2022, 55 million more people in Asia were
malnourished than before the COVID-19
pandemic. Most of these people lived in
Southern Asia.
In every sub-region except Eastern Asia,
women fared worse than men. About 10% of
women faced severe food insecurity, while
25% faced moderate insecurity The average
cost of a healthy diet in the Asia-Pacific was
estimated at 4.15 purchasing power parity
dollars per person per day.
The report cautioned that if the rising food
prices are not accompanied by increased
income, more individuals will find it
impossible to afford a nutritious diet.
The report noted that during the COVID-19
pandemic, the region was impacted by the
“5Fs” crisis – Food, Feed, Fuel, Fertilizers, and
Finance. The protracted effects of these crises
are still evident.
In 2022, 55 million more people in Asia were
malnourished than before the COVID-19
pandemic. Most of these people lived in
Southern Asia.
In every sub-region except Eastern Asia,
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) women fared worse than men. About 10% of
released a report on Food Security and women faced severe food insecurity, while
Nutrition static trends in Asia Pacific. 25% faced moderate insecurity.
Key Findings of the Report: The average cost of a healthy diet in the Asia-
According to the report, 82.2% of people in Pacific was estimated at 4.15 purchasing
Pakistan (According to the recent National power parity dollars per person per day.
Nutrition Survey, around 60 per cent of Reasons for Increase in Unaffordability:
Pakistan's total population is facing food A combination of higher food, feed and fuel
insecurity, and in these households, almost 50 prices and a slow recovery from the global
per cent women and children were pandemic have been the most important
malnourished.) , 74.1% of Indians and 66.1% reasons for the rise in unaffordability.
of people in Bangladesh reported having
About Healthy Diet:
trouble obtaining healthy food.
The report cautioned that if the rising food According to the Food and Agriculture
prices are not accompanied by increased Organization (FAO), A healthy diet is
income, more individuals will find it composed of a variety of nutritious and safe
impossible to afford a nutritious diet. foods that provide dietary energy and
The report noted that during the COVID-19 nutrients in the amounts needed for a healthy
pandemic, the region was impacted by the and active life
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International Organizations
About Food and Agriculture Organisation
(FAO): Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on FAO Report on Healthy Diet
of the United Nations is a specialized agency
that leads international efforts to defeat 1. What percentage of people in Pakistan
hunger. reported having trouble obtaining healthy
It was established on October 16, 1945, with food, according to the FAO report?
the primary aim of addressing hunger (A) 74.1%
issues globally. (B) 66.1%
It consists of 195 members, including 194 (C) 60%
countries and the European Union. The (D) 82.2%
FAO's headquarters is situated in Rome, Italy. Answer: (D)
Its activities include providing technical 2. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the
assistance to countries, conducting research, Asia-Pacific region faced a crisis related to
collecting and analyzing data on agriculture "5Fs." What are the "5Fs" mentioned in
and food security, and promoting sustainable
the report?
agricultural practices.
(A) Food, Fuel, Fertilizers, Fish, Finance
It collaborates with governments, NGOs,
(B) Feed, Finance, Fertilizers, Food, Fuel
international organizations, and other
stakeholders to develop policies and (C) Food, Feed, Fuel, Fertilizers, Finance
programs that enhance food security and (D) Fish, Food, Fertilizers, Feed, Finance
promote sustainable agriculture worldwide. Answer: (C)
Headquarters: Rome, Italy.

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International Organizations
3. In 2022, how many more people in Asia healthy and active life
were malnourished compared to before (D) Foods rich in carbohydrates only
the COVID-19 pandemic? Answer: (C)
(A) 55 million 9. When was the Food and Agriculture
(B) 45 million Organization (FAO) established?
(C) 65 million (A) October 16, 1947
(D) 75 million (B) October 16, 1955
Answer: (A) (C) October 16, 1945
4. Among the sub-regions, where did (D) October 16, 1950
women face the worst food insecurity? Answer: ©
(A) Southern Asia 10. How many members does the Food
(B) Eastern Asia and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have?
(C) Western Asia (A) 200 members
(D) Northern Asia (B) 180 members
Answer: (A) (C) 195 members
5. What was the average cost of a healthy (D) 210 members
diet per person per day in the Asia-Pacific Answer: (C)
region? 11. Where is the headquarters of the Food
(A) 4.15 US dollars and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
(B) 3.50 US dollars located?
(C) 5.20 US dollars (A) Geneva, Switzerland
(D) 3.75 US dollars (B) New York, USA
Answer: (A) (C) Rome, Italy
6. What were the "5Fs" crises mentioned in (D) Vienna, Austria
the report caused by during the COVID-19 Answer: (C)
pandemic? 12. What is one of the primary aims of the
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)?
(A) Fish, Fuel, Floods, Fertilizers, Famine
(A) Addressing environmental issues
(B) Food, Feed, Fuel, Fertilizers, Finance
(B) Defeating hunger globally
(C) Fire, Feed, Fertilizers, Finance, Floods
© Promoting industrial development
(D) Famine, Fish, Fuel, Food, Finance
(D) Ensuring global peace
Answer: (B)
Answer: (B)
7. What were the reasons cited for the 13. What percentage of Pakistan's GDP
increase in unaffordability of food in the constitutes the total quantified hidden
Asia-Pacific region? costs of the agri-food system, according to
(A) Higher food prices only the report?
(B) Higher feed prices only (A) 10%
(C) A slow recovery from the global pandemic (B) 15%
only (C) 20%
(D) A combination of higher food, feed, and (D) 25%
fuel prices, and a slow recovery from the Answer: (B)
global pandemic 14. How are the hidden costs categorized
Answer: (D) in the report concerning Pakistan's agri-
8. According to the FAO, what does a food system?
healthy diet consist of? (A) Economic, Political, Cultural
(A) Any variety of foods (B) Environmental, Social, Health
(B) Foods that provide dietary energy only (C) Industrial, Agricultural, Educational
© Nutritious and safe foods that provide (D) Infrastructure, Technological, Financial
dietary energy and nutrients needed for a Answer: (B)
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International Organizations
The State of Food and Agriculture Global Impact and Economic Burden:
o The majority of hidden costs
2023 Report were generated in upper-
middle-income (39%) and
high-income countries (36%),
with lower-middle-income
countries at 22% and low-
income countries at 3%.
§ The report estimates that
unhealthy diets result in
hidden costs equivalent
to at least USD 10 trillion
annually, which accounts
for nearly 10% of the
A new report titled 'The State of Food and global gross domestic
Agriculture 2023', by the Food and product (GDP).
Agriculture Organization (FAO) reveals the § The analysis
staggering hidden costs of unhealthy diets encompasses 154
and ultra-processed foods, impacting both countries, emphasizing
our health and the environment. the widespread
· These costs reach over USD 7 trillion implications of these
annually and have far-reaching dietary patterns.
consequences. Impact on Pakistan
Note: The per capita food consumption in
· Hidden costs in the context of Pakistan was estimated at 1$ per day, which
agrifood systems include was costlier and consuming more resources.
environmental expenses from Despite an agrarian economy Pakistan was
emissions and land use, health costs still importing food commodities worth $9
related to dietary patterns, billion per-annum. FAO was striving hard to
undernourishment and social costs reduce hidden costs of food with the
associated with poverty among collaboration of different stakeholders and
bringing efficiencies to reduce costs of
Key Findings ofworkers.
agrifood the State of Food and production
Agriculture 2023 The FAO unveiled the staggering hidden
Hidden Costs of Unhealthy Diets: costs of current agri-food systems, reaching
o Unhealthy diets, characterized an alarming $10 trillion annually, nearly 10%
by the consumption of ultra- of the world's GDP.
processed foods, fats, and For Pakistan, the total quantified hidden
sugars, lead to substantial costs of the agri-food system amount to
hidden costs.
approximately $161.8 billion, constituting
o These costs exceed USD 7
trillion annually, reflecting the around 15% of the country's GDP. These
economic burden of health- costs are categorized into environmental
related issues like obesity and ($28.9 billion), social ($20.9 billion), and
non-communicable diseases. health ($112 billion) dimensions.
§ Additionally, these diets The report advocates for governments to
result in decreased utilize true cost accounting, emphasizing that
labour productivity, addressing the climate crisis, poverty,
contributing to the inequality, and food security requires a
overall hidden costs. transformative approach.
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International Organizations
It calls for innovative research, data
investments, and capacity building to scale
the application of true cost accounting
transparently and consistently.
Global Food Insecurity:
Food insecurity,
o particularly moderate or severe
food insecurity, remained
Future Projections and Undernourishment:
largely unchanged globally for
o The report projects that by 2030,
the second consecutive year. nearly 600 million people are
§ These levels are, expected to suffer from chronic
however, significantly undernourishment.
higher than Pre-Covid- How can the Burden of Ultra-processed Foods
19 pandemic figures. be Reduced?
o The report highlights that · The burden of ultra-processed foods can
approximately 29.6% of the be reduced by transforming current
global population, agrifood systems to make them more
corresponding to 2.4 billion sustainable, healthy, and inclusive.
people, experienced moderate o Promoting the production and
or severe food insecurity in consumption of more diverse,
2022. nutritious, and less processed
§ Among them, roughly foods, such as fruits, vegetables,
900 million individuals legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole
(11.3% of the global grains.
population) faced · Regulating the marketing, labelling, and
severe food insecurity. taxation of ultra-processed foods, and
o Among the nine South Asian providing subsidies and incentives for
countries, Afghanistan 1st, healthier foods.
Pakistan 2nd India had the · Improving the access and affordability of
3rd highest prevalence of healthy foods, especially for low-income
undernourishment (233.9 and vulnerable groups, through social
million) in the total population. protection, food assistance, and public
o Low-income countries were procurement.
the hardest hit by hidden costs · Educating and empowering consumers to
of agrifood systems, which make informed and healthy food
represent more than a quarter choices, through nutrition education,
of their GDP, as opposed to behaviour change communication, and
less than 12% in middle-income digital technologies.
countries and less than 8% in · Enhancing the efficiency and circularity
high-income countries. of the agrifood systems, by reducing
food losses and waste, improving
resource use efficiency, and adopting
cleaner and renewable energy sources.
· Strengthening the governance and
coordination of the agrifood systems, by
engaging multiple stakeholders, fostering
innovation and research, and monitoring
and evaluating the impacts and outcomes.
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International Organizations
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) 6. Among South Asian countries, which
on FAO's 'The State of Food and country had the highest prevalence of
undernourishment according to the
Agriculture 2023' Report report?
(A) India
1. What is the estimated annual hidden (B) Pakistan
cost of unhealthy diets and ultra- (C) Afghanistan
processed foods worldwide, as revealed by (D) Bangladesh
the FAO report? Answer: (C)
(A) $5 trillion 7. What is the projected number of people
(B) $7 trillion expected to suffer from chronic
(C) $10 trillion undernourishment by 2030, according to
(D) $15 trillion the report?
Answer: (B) (A) 300 million
2. What are the key components (B) 500 million
contributing to the hidden costs in (C) 600 million
(D) 800 million
agrifood systems, according to the report?
Answer: (C)
(A) Economic burdens only
8. How can the burden of ultra-processed
(B) Environmental expenses, health costs, and foods be reduced, as suggested by the
social costs report?
(C) Dietary patterns only (A) Promoting the consumption of more
(D) Labour productivity losses only processed foods
Answer: (B) (B) Increasing subsidies for ultra-processed
3. Which countries generate the majority foods
of hidden costs related to unhealthy diets (C) Regulating the marketing of ultra-
and ultra-processed foods? processed foods
(A) High-income countries (D) All of the above
(B) Low-income countries Answer: (C)
(C) Upper-middle-income countries 9. What is the emphasis of the report on
(D) Both a and c reducing the burden of ultra-processed
Answer: (D) foods in agrifood systems?
4. How much of the global GDP is (A) Promoting unhealthy dietary patterns
estimated to be affected by the hidden (B) Improving the affordability of ultra-
costs of unhealthy diets annually? processed foods
(A) 5% (C) Transforming agrifood systems to be more
(B) 8% sustainable and healthy
(C) 10% (D) None of the above
(D) 15% Answer: ©
Answer: © 10. How can consumers be educated and
5. What percentage of Pakistan's GDP is empowered to make healthier food
choices, according to the report?
attributed to the total quantified hidden
(A) Implementing stricter regulations on food
costs of its agri-food system?
choices
(A) 10% (B) Providing nutrition education and using
(B) 12% digital technologies
(C) 15% (C) Increasing taxes on all food items
(D) 20% (D) Eliminating food subsidies
Answer: (C) Answer: (B)

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Intergovernmental Organization
Angola Exits OPEC, Shrinking Ecuador suspended its membership in
December 1992, rejoined OPEC in October
Group to 12 2007, but decided to withdraw its
membership of OPEC effective 1 January
2020. Indonesia suspended its membership in
January 2009, reactivated it again in January
2016, but decided to suspend its membership
st
once more at the 171 Meeting of the OPEC
Conference on 30 November 2016. Gabon
terminated its membership in January 1995.
However, it rejoined the Organization in July
2016. Qatar terminated its membership on 1
January 2019.
This means that, currently, the Organization
has a total of 13 Member Countries.
Angola, Africa's second biggest oil producer,
has said it is leaving OPEC after
disagreements over its production targets,
delivering a blow to the oil cartel chaired by
Saudi Arabia.
Reason:
Angola joined OPEC in 2007 but has clashed
with Saudi Arabia at recent meetings over
attempts to lower its production baseline —
the level from which each member's output
quota is calculated — to reflect declines in
the country's production capacity. Headquarters:
Angola argues that OPEC no longer serves OPEC had its headquarters in Geneva,
its interests, following a dispute over its Switzerland, in the first five years of its
output quota. Angola's exit, joining Ecuador existence. This was moved to Vienna,
and Qatar as former members, further Austria, on September 1, 1965.
challenges OPEC's market share, which has Objective
been decreasing due to production cuts
and rising output from non-OPEC The organization's primary objective is to
countries. coordinate and unify petroleum policies
among member countries, ensuring fair and
About OPEC: stable prices for petroleum producers and
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting maintaining an efficient, economic, and
Countries (OPEC) is a permanent, regular supply of petroleum to consuming
intergovernmental Organization, created at nations. With its headquarters in Vienna,
the Baghdad Conference on September Austria, OPEC holds significant global
10–14, 1960, by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi influence, possessing over 80% of the
Arabia and Venezuela including Qatar (1961), world's total crude oil reserves. OPEC+
Indonesia (1962), Libya (1962), the United represents approximately 40% of world oil
Arab Emirates (1967), Algeria (1969), Nigeria production, comprising OPEC and 10 other
(1971), Ecuador (1973), Gabon (1975), Angola major oil-exporting nations, including Russia.
(2007), Equatorial Guinea (2017) and Congo The organization regulates
(2018).
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Intergovernmental Organization
crude oil prices through mechanisms like Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
spot or future sales, using Brent Crude as a
benchmark for quality, with WTI (West
on Angola Exits OPEC, Shrinking
Texas Intermediate) being another major Group to 12
Benchmark. What is Angola's primary reason for leaving
Angola's departure will leave the group with OPEC?
12 members and take its production to (A) Disagreements over production targets
below 27 million barrels per day (bpd) - less (B) Declining oil prices
than 27% of the total global supply of 102 C) Internal political conflicts
million bpd. The last time OPEC's market D) Lack of oil reserves
Answer: (A)
share fell to 27% was during the 2020 When did Angola join OPEC?
pandemic, when global demand dropped by (A) 1960
15-20%. (B) 2007
About Angola C) 1992
D) 2019
It is a country on the west-central coast of Answer: (B)
Southern Africa. Bordered by Namibia to Which of the following countries is NOT
the south, the Democratic Republic of the mentioned as a former member of OPEC?
Congo to the north, Zambia to the east, and (A) Ecuador
the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The capital (B) Qatar
and largest city of Angola is Luanda. C) Indonesia
President: João Lourenço D) Namibia
Vice President: Esperança da Costa Answer: D)
Pakistan and OPEC Where is the headquarters of OPEC currently
Observer status: In 2012, Pakistan became located?
(A) Geneva, Switzerland
an observer in the International Energy Forum (B) Baghdad, Iraq
(IEF), an affiliate of OPEC, facilitating closer C) Vienna, Austria
dialogue and collaboration. D) Tehran, Iran
In 2022, Pakistan stood by Saudi Arabia after Answer: C)
the OPEC+ decision to cut oil production What is the primary objective of OPEC?
sparked US ire. The move challenged Western (A) Increase oil prices
efforts to curb Russian oil revenue and drew (B) Control global oil reserves
threats of consequences from President C) Coordinate and unify petroleum policies
Biden. Despite US pressure, Pakistan voiced D) Promote renewable energy sources
its solidarity with Saudi Arabia, highlighting Answer: C)
What percentage of the world's total crude oil
the complex dynamics within the oil-
reserves does OPEC possess?
exporting group and its impact on global (A) 50%
energy politics. (B) 60%
C) 70%
D) 80%
Answer: D)
What is the significance of OPEC+?
(A) It represents OPEC's internal committee
(B) It regulates crude oil prices independently of
OPEC
C) It comprises OPEC and 10 other major oil-
exporting nations
D) It focuses on renewable energy initiatives
Answer: C)
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Climate Change
South Asia Worst in World for expected to become worse for children in
South Asia.”
Water Scarcity: UN Report Causes and Challenges of Water Scarcity in
South Asia
Poor water quality, lack of water and
mismanagement are reasons for water
scarcity in South Asia. Although South Asia is
home to more than one quarter of the
world's children, the region has only 4 per
cent of the world's renewable water.
Droughts are becoming more frequent and
more severe, lasting longer in many South
Asian countries because of climate change
Alarming Water Scarcity and increased water demand.
Climate change is disrupting weather patterns
Impacting Children in and rainfall, leading to unpredictable water
availability. Climate change also adds
South Asia additional stress as it exacerbates conditions
A staggering 347 million children under 18 caused by the over-extraction of
are exposed to high or extremely high water groundwater. Across the region, 70 million
scarcity in South Asia, the highest number children live in drought-prone regions where
among all regions in the world, according to aquifers are severely over-pumped. The Indo
a new UNICEF analysis. Gangetic Basin covering Pakistan, India,
Water scarcity affects children's well-being Bangladesh, and Nepal is the most heavily
and growth, causes food insecurity, exploited aquifer in the world. Groundwater
malnutrition, and other diseases, such as
salinity and drying reservoirs are other
diarrhoea. Financial hardships faced by
farming families can impact children's problems. Climate warming further decreases
education and push children into work. In the amount of water charging the aquifers.
addition, water scarcity is a threat not only to Soil quality and strong rainfall also affect the
children's well-being but also to agriculture, capacity of groundwater to recharge.
industry and economic growth. UNICEF's analysis also shows that South Asia
“Safe water is a basic human right, yet had the highest number of children under 18
millions of children in South Asia don't have years exposed to extreme water vulnerability
enough to drink in a region plagued by in 2022 among all regions (169 million
floods, droughts and other extreme weather children). South Asia was followed by Eastern
events, triggered increasingly by climate and Southern Africa (130 million) and West
change,” UNICEF Regional Director for South and Central Africa (102 million). Extreme
Asia. “Children across South Asia who live in
water vulnerability indicates a combination of
areas of water scarcity suffer severe climate
hazards such as devastating floods and high or extremely high levels of water scarcity
heatwaves. They often live in a vicious cycle and low or very low levels of drinking water
of drought and water scarcity. When village service. In addition, 45 million children still
wells go dry, homes, health centres and lacked access to basic drinking water services
schools are all affected. With an increasingly in South Asia , more than any other region in
unpredictable climate, water scarcity is 2022.

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Climate Change
UNICEF in South Asia urges governments,
partners and others to respond to the crisis
by:
· Promoting the more efficient
management of water resources and
improving access to water and
sanitation services than can withstand
climate shocks;
· Investing in areas where high exposure
to climate hazards overlaps with low
access to water and sanitation services;
· Taking stronger action in national
adaptation plans and climate finance
investments to manage water scarcity
and boost infrastructure for drinking
water; UNICEF's 2021 Children's Climate Risk
· Generating data to understand the Index (CCRI), children in Afghanistan,
patterns of use for groundwater Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan are at
resources and recharge potential is 'extremely high risk' of the impacts of climate
critical as is early detection of change. Maldives is at risk of disappearing
groundwater depletion; entirely. Every child in South Asia is affected
· Improving water supply and storage, by at least one climate-related hazard, shock
especially by capturing rainwater and or stress. Over 600 million children - roughly
artificially recharging groundwater in double the population of the US - are highly
water scarce areas. exposed to diseases associated with climate
change, such as malaria or dengue. Almost
597 million face high levels of air pollution
while 128 million children are affected by
heat waves.
Call for International Support at COP28
Despite children's unique vulnerability to
climate change, only 2.4 per cent of climate
finance from key multilateral climate funds
support projects that incorporate child-
responsive activities. At COP28, UNICEF is
calling on world leaders and the international
Projections for 2030 and South Asia's community to take critical steps with and for
Unique Climate Challenges children to secure a livable planet. This
Projections for 2030 show that coverage of includes elevating children within the final
basic drinking water services is expected to COP28 Cover Decision and including children
continue to increase rapidly in South Asia, within the final decision on the Global Goal
thereby reducing the number of children for Adaptation (GGA).
exposed to water vulnerability. At current “Unless we act now, children will continue to
rates of progress, South Asia will more than suffer,” added Wijesekera. “It is incumbent on
halve the children who do not have basic governments , private sector and civil society
drinking water from 45 million to 18 million. organizations to work in partnership to
South Asia is a global climate hotspot and improve water management and design
children are paying the price. According to services that can withstand climate shocks.”

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Climate Change
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) (C) Combination of high water scarcity and
on South Asia Worst in World for low drinking water service
(D) Adequate access to water resources
Water Scarcity: UN Report Answer: ©
1. According to the UNICEF analysis, how 7. How many children still lacked access to
many children under 18 in South Asia are basic drinking water services in South Asia
exposed to high or extremely high water in 2022?
scarcity? (A) 45 million
(A) 247 million (B) 128 million
(B) 347 million (C) 102 million
(C) 169 million (D) 169 million
(D) 102 million Answer: (A)
Answer: (B) 8. What is the key recommendation from
2. What are some impacts of water scarcity UNICEF for responding to the water
on children mentioned in the article? scarcity crisis in South Asia?
(A) Food security (A) Building more dams
(B) Malnutrition (B) Investing in renewable energy
(C) Diarrhoea (C) Efficient management of water resources
(D) All of the above and improving access to water and sanitation
Answer: (D) services
3. Which region had the highest number of (D) Focusing on space exploration
children exposed to extreme water Answer: (C)
vulnerability in 2022, according to 9. What is the primary reason for water
UNICEF's analysis? scarcity in South Asia mentioned in the
(A) Eastern and Southern Africa article?
(B) West and Central Africa
(A) Over-extraction of groundwater
(C) South Asia
(B) Excessive rainfall
(D) North America
Answer: (C) (C) Lack of financial resources
4. What percentage of the world's (D) High soil quality
renewable water does South Asia have? Answer: (A)
(A) 25% 10. What is the projection for coverage of
(B) 4% basic drinking water services in South Asia
(C) 10% by 2030?
(D) 15% (A) No change
Answer: (B) (B) Rapid increase
5. Which aquifer covering Pakistan, India, (C) Significant decrease
Bangladesh, and Nepal is the most heavily (D) Unpredictable
exploited in the world? Answer: (B)
(A) Amazon Basin 11. Which countries are mentioned as
(B) Nile Delta 'extremely high risk' in UNICEF's 2021
(C) Indo Gangetic Basin Children's Climate Risk Index?
(D) Mississippi River Basin (A) China and Russia
Answer: (C) (B) Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and
6. What does extreme water vulnerability, Pakistan
as per UNICEF's analysis, indicate? (C) Brazil and Argentina
(A) High levels of water abundance (D) United Kingdom and France
(B) Low levels of water scarcity Answer: (B)
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Economy
Pakistan's Regional Exports countries recorded a decline of 5.98 percent,
totaling $4884.440 million compared to
Rebound: China Leads, India Lags $5195.286 million last year.
Breaking down specific import figures,
imports from China decreased by 6.03
percent, reaching $4741.099 million in July-
November 2023-24. Imports from India
increased by 14.33 percent, totaling $88.906
million, while imports from Afghanistan
experienced a substantial decrease of 72.34
percent, falling from $11.523 million to
$3.187 million. Import figures from Sri Lanka
increased slightly to $24.965 million, while
imports from Bangladesh recorded $26.085
Pakistan's exports to seven regional countries million, down from $35.622 million last year.
have seen a notable surge, marking a 16.29 Importantly, imports from Nepal witnessed a
percent increase in the first five months of significant decrease of 82.11 percent,
the financial year 2023-24 compared to the dropping from $0.302 million to $0.054
same period last year. According to the State million.
Bank of Pakistan (SBP), these exports, which
include shipments to Afghanistan, China,
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, and the
Maldives, amount to $1855.996 million. This
constitutes 14.83 percent of Pakistan's total
exports, which stand at $12510.845 million
for the period of July to November 2023-24.
China stands out as the leading recipient of
Pakistan's exports to neighboring countries,
surpassing Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
Notably, border trade activities were
conducted with Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, and
the Maldives. Pakistan's exports to China
experienced a significant uptick of 39.44 Key Points:
percent, reaching $1223.532 million in the · Overall growth: Pakistan's regional
first five months of this year compared to exports climbed 14.3% in the first four
$877.444 million in the previous year. months of FY24 (July-Oct 2023)
compared to the same period last year.
Similarly, exports to Afghanistan increased to · China dominates: Shipments to China
$232.697 million from $213.282 million. surged 40.4%, accounting for nearly
However, exports to Bangladesh witnessed a 61% of total regional exports. This
decline of 31.91 percent, totaling $248.457 marks a significant rebound after a
million compared to $364.930 million last 27.3% decline in FY23.
year. On the other hand, exports to Sri Lanka · Mixed performance: Other
saw a rise of 7.61 percent, reaching $145.970 destinations saw contrasting trends.
million. Afghanistan remained stagnant (2.64%
The trend continues with exports to Nepal, growth), Nepal and Maldives enjoyed
which increased by 15.48 percent to $1.439 increases (11.8% and 17.5%
million, and to the Maldives, where exports respectively), while exports to India
rose by 15.10 percent to $3.832 million. In and Bangladesh plummeted (37% and
contrast, imports from seven regional 34.7% respectively).

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Economy
· Informal trade: Data excludes land- (A) 14.83%
route exports to Afghanistan and (B) 39.44%
informal trade with Iran. (C) 72.34%
· Shifting trend: This positive (D) 5.98%
change signals a reversal from the Answer: (A)
21.1% decline in regional exports 4. Which country tops the list of Pakistan's
witnessed in Fy23. exports to its neighboring countries?
· Latest Information:
· This upward trend continued in (A) Bangladesh
November 2023, with regional exports (B) China
growing 27% year-on-year to $429 (C) Afghanistan
million. (D) Sri Lanka
· Pakistan and China recently Answer: (B)
signed a $2 billion loan agreement to 5. With which country did Pakistan carry
boost trade and infrastructure out border trade among Sri Lanka, India,
development, potentially Nepal, and Maldives?
strengthening China's role as a key (A) Sri Lanka
export destination. (B) India
· Ongoing political tensions with India (C) Nepal
continue to dampen bilateral trade. (D) Maldives
· Pakistan is exploring alternative trade Answer: (D)
routes and free trade agreements to
6. How much did Pakistan's exports to
diversify its export destinations and
reduce reliance on China. China increase in terms of percentage
during the first five months (July-
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) November) of the current year?
(A) 6.03%
on Pakistan's Regional Exports (B) 15.48%
Rebound: China Leads, India Lags (C) 31.91%
(D) 39.44%
1. What is the percentage increase in Answer: (D)
Pakistan's exports to regional countries
during the first five months (July-
November) of the financial year 2023-24?
(A) 16.29%
(B) 14.83%
(C) 5.98%
(D) 39.44%
Answer: (A)
2. Which countries are included in the list
of regional countries for Pakistan's
exports?
(A) Afghanistan, China, Bangladesh 7. What is the total value of Pakistan's
(B) Sri Lanka, India, Nepal exports to all the regional countries
(C) Maldives combined?
(D) All of the above (A) $12510.845 million
Answer: (D) (B) $1855.996 million
3. What percentage of Pakistan's overall (C) $1223.532 million
exports do the exports to regional (D) $364.930 million
countries constitute? Answer: (B)
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Economy
8. By what percentage did exports to
Bangladesh decrease during the first five
months (July-November) of the current
fiscal year?
(A) 5.98%
(B) 14.33%
(C) 31.91%
(D) 7.61%
Answer: (C)
9. What was the percentage increase in
exports to Afghanistan during the first five
months (July-November) of the current
fiscal year?
(A) 15.10% 12. Which country showed an increase in
(B) 72.34% imports by 14.33% during the first five
(C) 2.64% months (July-November) of the current
(D) 7.61% fiscal year?
Answer: (C) (A) China
10. How much did Pakistan's exports to Sri (B) India
Lanka increase in terms of percentage? (C) Afghanistan
(A) 15.48% (D) Bangladesh
(B) 7.61% Answer: (B)
(C) 14.33% 13. What was the percentage decrease in
(D) 34.74% imports from Nepal into Pakistan?
Answer: (B) (A) 72.34%
(B) 82.11%
(C) 15.10%
(D) 31.91%
Answer: (B)
14. What is the total value of imports from
China during July-November 2023-24?
(A) $5045.390 million
(B) $4741.099 million
(C) $88.906 million
(D) $5195.286 million
Answer: (B)
11. What was the percentage decrease in 15. How much did imports from Bangladesh
imports from Afghanistan during July- decrease during the first five months (July-
November 2023-24? November) of the current fiscal year?
(A) 14.33% (A) 72.34%
(B) 5.98% (B) 15.10%
(C) 72.34% (C) 5.98%
(D) 82.11% (D) 26.085 million
Answer: (C) Answer: D)

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Economy
WB: International Debt Report billion against $10.841 billion in 2021, long-term
external debt of $106.652 billion in 2022 against
(IDR) / Pakistan $110.958 billion in 2021.
Public and publicly guaranteed debt, by creditor
and creditor type in 2022, including IMF credit
includes 44 percent multilateral, (16 per cent
World Bank, 15 per cent ADB, 13 per other
multilateral), 37 per cent bilateral (25 per cent
China, 4 per cent Japan,) and 19 per cent private
(9 per cent bondholders, 10 per cent other
commercial).
Short-term external debt stood at $8.768 billion
in 2022 compared to $9.074 billion in 2021.
According to the data, external debt stocks as
percentage of export was 320 in 2022 compared
to 360 per cent in 2021, external debt stocks to
GNI was 34 per cent in 2022 compared to 38 per
cent in 2021, debt service as percentage of
exports was 42 in 2022 compared to 34 per cent
in 2021, gross national income (GNI) was 371.237
in 2022 compared to 341,730 in 2021.
Of the long-term external debt stocks include;
public and publically guaranteed debt $91.520
billion in 2022 compared to $95.413 billion in
2021. Commercial banks and others stood at
$15.133 billion in 2022 compared to 15.545 billion
The World Bank released the International Debt in 2021 and bondholders remained zero in both
years.
Report (IDR).
The report further noted that in Pakistan, the
What are debts?
Debt Management Office published a semi-
Debt refers to an obligation or financial liability
annual debt bulletin for July–December 2021 with
that one party owes to another. It is typically in a creditor-wise breakdown of outstanding debt
the form of borrowed funds that need to be (FY2022 PPA); it also published an annual report
repaid over time, often with interest. on public debt that compares debt management
The World Bank in its latest report, “International strategy implementation with targets for end-
Debt Report 2023, noted that in South Asia, FY2022, and provincial finance departments
external debt obligations to China rose nearly published semi-annual debt bulletins for
sevenfold over 11 years, from $6.4 billion in 2012 July–December 2022, following international
to $42.9 billion in 2022, of which two-thirds was reporting standards for Public Sector Debt
accounted for by Pakistan. Statistics
· Pakistan's total external debt stocks at About IDR:
$126.942 billion by end 2022 compared to Formerly known as International Debt Statistics
$130.873 billion by end-2021. (IDS), is an annual publication by the World
Important Points: Bank, now in its fiftieth year. It focuses on
The bank stated that total external debt stocks external debt statistics and analysis for 122
stood at $126.942 billion by 2022 including the low- and middle-income countries participating
use of IMF credit and SDR allocations of $11.522 in the World Bank Debt Reporting System.
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Economy
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) (D) $15.133 billion
on WB: International Debt Report Answer: ©
7. What percentage of the long-term
(IDR) / Pakistan external debt in 2022 was accounted for
1. What is the International Debt Report by China?
(IDR) released by the World Bank? (A) 4%
(A) A report on global economic trends (B) 25%
(B) An analysis of international trade statistics (C) 16%
(C) An annual publication on external debt (D) 37%
statistics Answer: (A)
(D) A study on financial liabilities in 8. What does the short-term external debt
developing countries stand at in 2022?
Answer: (C) (A) $9.074 billion
2. How does the World Bank define debt? (B) $8.768 billion
(A) A financial investment (C) $11.522 billion
(B) A borrowed obligation (D) $42.9 billion
(C) A monetary grant
Answer: (B)
(D) A trade surplus
9. What was the external debt stocks as a
Answer: (B)
3. According to the International Debt percentage of export in 2022?
Report 2023, what is the primary form of (A) 360%
debt that South Asian countries owe to (B) 320%
China? (C) 34%
(A) Credit obligations (D) 42%
(B) External debt stocks Answer: (B)
(C) IMF allocations 10. What is the focus of the International
(D) Borrowed funds Debt Report (IDR)?
Answer: (B) (A) National economic policies
4. What percentage of Pakistan's total (B) Global financial markets
external debt stocks was accounted for by (C) External debt statistics
China, according to the report? (D) Stock market trends
(A) 25% Answer: (C)
(B) 44% 11. How many countries participate in the
(C) 66% World Bank Debt Reporting System
(D) 10% according to the IDR?
Answer: (B)
(A) 50
5. What were Pakistan's total external debt
(B) 100
stocks at the end of 2022?
(A) $130.873 billion (C) 122
(B) $126.942 billion (D) 150
(C) $110.958 billion Answer: ©
(D) $42.9 billion 12. What does GNI stand for in the
Answer: (B) context of the report?
6. How much was Pakistan's long-term (A) Global National Income
external debt in 2022? (B) Gross National Index
(A) $106.652 billion (C) Gross National Income
(B) $110.958 billion (D) Global Net Investment
(C) $91.520 billion Answer: (C)
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Environment
reproductive organs (stigma) of the same
Self-Pollination flower or another flower on the same plant.
· The mechanism ensures the plant's
ability to reproduce without relying
on external pollinators like insects or
wind.
Mechanism of the Self-Pollination:
1. Anther and Stigma Proximity: In self-
pollinating plants, the anther
(producing pollen) is close to the
stigma (receiving pollen) within the
same flower.
2. Pollen Transfer: Pollen grains are
transferred from the anther to the
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have stigma, either by physical contact or
observed rapid evolution in a flowering plant, through the plant's internal
Viola arvensis (field pansy), in Paris, France. mechanisms.
The plant is producing less nectar and 3. Fertilization: The pollen tube grows
smaller flowers to attract fewer pollinators, down the style to the ovary, where
displaying signs of self-pollination. fertilization takes place, resulting in the
What are the reason for the evolution? formation of seeds.
Changes in the environment especially due 4. Genetic Similarity: Since both the
to anthropogenic activities have limited the pollen and the ovule come from the
population of pollinators (such as Bees). In same plant, the offspring are
such a situation, plants evolve to self- genetically identical to the parent,
pollinate itself. leading to limited genetic diversity.
What is Self-pollination? Self-pollination ensures reproductive success,
In plants, pollination plays an important role especially in environments with limited
in reproduction. pollinators, but it can also reduce genetic
Pollination is the sexual method of variability in plant populations and risk to
reproducing in all plants by the process of the plant-pollinator interaction system.
transferring the pollen grains from the anther
to the stigma of the gynoecium and thereby
permitting the fertilization process. In this
process, the spermatophytes or the seed
plants pass their genetic information to its
next-generation, just like all other living
organisms.
Christian Konrad Sprengel first identified the
process of pollination in the 18th century.
This is commonly known as an interaction
between pollen vector and a flower. The
significance is found in agriculture and
horticulture.
Main Points
It is a reproductive process in plants where
pollen from a flower's male reproductive
organs (anther) fertilizes the female
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Environment

Difference Between Self-Pollination and Cross-Pollination

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Environment
5 What percentage decline in the overall
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) weight of insects caught in traps was
on Self-Pollination reported in German nature reserves from
1989 to 2016?
(A) 25%
(B) 50%
(C) 75%
(D) 100%
Answer: (C)
6 Which location were ancestral pansy
plants germinated from in the study?
(A) Paris fields.
(B) German nature reserves.
(C) National botanical conservatories.
(D) Insect traps.
Answer: (C)
1 What change have researchers observed 7 What term is used to describe the
in the flowers of field pansies near Paris? observed change in flowers' characteristics
(A) They have grown 10% larger. due to the decline in pollinators?
(B) They produce 20% more nectar. (A) Evolutionary reversal.
(C) They are 10% smaller and produce 20%
(B) Resurrection ecology.
less nectar.
(D) They attract more insects. (C) Conservation urgency.
Answer: (C) (D) Pollinator decline.
2 What is the main reason for the decline Answer: (A)
in insect visits to the field pansies? 8 What is the significance of the 1990s and
(A) Increased flower size. 2000s seeds used in the study?
(B) Decreased nectar production. (A) They were collected for botanical displays.
(C) Changes in insect behavior. (B) They represent ancestral pansy plants.
(D) Excessive use of pesticides. (C) They were genetically modified.
Answer: (C) (D) They were used for pest control.
3 What method was used in the study to Answer: (B)
assess changes in field pansy populations? 9 What type of field pansies were studied
(A) Genetic engineering. in the research?
(B) Evolutionary biology. (A) Viola arvensis.
(C) Resurrection ecology. (B) Parisian pansies.
(D) Botanical conservation.
(C) German pansies.
Answer: (C)
(D) Insect-trap pansies.
4 Why are conservation measures
considered urgent in the context of Answer: (A)
pollinator declines? 10 What is the general trend in insect
(A) To promote genetic engineering in plants. numbers across Europe?
(B) To encourage the growth of larger flowers. (A) Stable.
(C) To halt and reverse the effects observed in (B) Increasing.
plants. (C) Declining.
(D) To store seeds in botanical conservatories. (D) Fluctuating.
Answer: (C) Answer: (C)

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Environment
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
Iridescent Clouds on Iridescent Clouds
1. What are the rare iridescent clouds
mentioned in the news article called?
(A) Cumulonimbus clouds
(B) Nacreous clouds
(C) Stratus clouds
(D) Cirrus clouds
Answer: (B)
2. In which regions were the rare iridescent
clouds recently spotted?
(A) Southern France and Spain
(B) Parts of Scotland, northern England, and the
Rare iridescent clouds, known as nacreous West Midlands
clouds, were spotted over parts of Scotland, (C) Eastern United States
northern England, and the West Midlands (D) Central Asia
recently. Answer: (B)
Weather watchers have captured images of
rare iridescent clouds over Scotland, northern
England and the West Midlands, with some
people likening them to UFOs.
· The clouds, resembling mother of
pearl, are known for their pastel
light reflections during sunset and
sunrise.
· This phenomenon occurs as sunlight
3. What do nacreous clouds resemble,
diffracts around tiny ice crystals
according to the article?
within the clouds, creating an effect
(A) Cotton candy
similar to a thin layer of oil on (B) Rainbows
water. (C) Mother of pearl
Nacreous clouds are rare in the UK and are (D) Volcanic ash
usually seen when cold air from the polar Answer: (C)
vortex temporarily hovers over the region. 4. How is the iridescent effect in nacreous
The low pressure system has been named clouds created?
Storm Pia by the Danish authorities, but it (A) Heat absorption by water vapor
was not expected to be severe enough in the (B) Refraction of sunlight in rain droplets
UK to warrant being officially named. (C) Diffraction of sunlight around tiny ice crystals
The mechanism behind iridescent clouds is (D) Absorption of sunlight by clouds
diffraction, which occurs when small water Answer: (C)
droplets or small ice crystals scatter the 5. When do nacreous clouds typically appear
sun's light. Larger ice crystals do not produce in the UK?
iridescence but can cause halos. (A) During summer heatwaves
(B) When warm air masses collide
(C) When cold air from the polar vortex hovers
over the region
(D) During monsoon season
Answer: (C)
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Chemistry: New Scientic Advancements

Formaldehyde
It is a colourless, flammable gas with a strong odour. It is classified as a human carcinogen
and is linked to long-term adverse health effects and cancer.
Researchers developed a low-cost, non-invasive sensor for detecting formaldehyde
adulteration in fish at room temperature.
· The sensor, made of tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite, overcomes the
limitations of existing formalin sensors, which are either expensive or invasive.
· The graphene oxide's low electrical conductivity was addressed by creating the tin
oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite.
· The sensor demonstrated effective detection of formaldehyde vapor in adulterated
fish samples, showing promise for addressing food adulteration issues.
Interesting Facts About Formaldehyde
1. Our Bodies Make Formaldehyde!
Guess what? Your body naturally produces formaldehyde! Some folks think it's a human-made
chemical, but it's actually organic. Organic means it occurs naturally, like when your body
processes food. Each day, you create about 1.5 ounces of formaldehyde by eating and
digesting.
2. Formaldehyde is in Fruits and Veggies!
There's talk on the internet about formaldehyde being in some foods. People speculate that it's
added as a preservative, but that's not always true. Formaldehyde is naturally in foods like
apples and bananas. As these foods ripen, they make formaldehyde. So, the formaldehyde in
your food isn't always put there on purpose.
3. Scientists Study Formaldehyde a Lot!
Scientists have spent more than 40 years studying formaldehyde and how it affects our health.
All this research helps us understand how to handle formaldehyde safely and what it can do to
our health. Even though it's natural, formaldehyde is risky, and there are limits to how much we
should be exposed to. If you're dealing with formaldehyde, it's smart to talk to experts.
Formaldehyde Has Many Jobs!
Besides these cool facts, formaldehyde has many uses you might not know about. One of its
forms, called formalin, is a common disinfectant in places like hospitals and funeral homes.
People also use it to make things like paint resins and wood stains for houses. It's a super
versatile compound!

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General Knowledge

World's
World's OldestFort
Oldest Fort Discovered
Discovered in in
Siberia
Siberia

Archaeologists made a groundbreaking discovery in a remote area of Siberia, unearthing an

approximately 8,000-year-old fortress built by hunters and gatherers.
The Amnya I and II fortress is believed to be the world's oldest fortified settlement and could
cause historians to reassess how complex societies evolved.
The Amnya fortress is located on a sandy area alongside the Amnya River, suggesting the
hunter-gatherers chose the site to control abundant fishing spots
Siberia is a vast Russian province encompassing most of Northern Asia, with terrain spanning
tundra, coniferous forest and mountain ranges including the Ural, Altai and Verkhoyansk.
Lake Baikal, in its south, is the world's deepest lake, circled by a network of hiking paths
called the Great Baikal Trail. The Trans-Siberian Railway passes Baikal on its route between
Moscow and the Sea of Japan

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Current Affairs MCQs

Monthly Current Affairs MCQs
December 2023
1 What is the total amount Unicef is
seeking from the donor community for
2024 to address humanitarian needs in
Pakistan?
(A) $50 million
(B) $75.3 million
(C) $135.6 million
(D) $200 million © 1,500 acres
Answer: © (D) 2,000 acres
Answer: ©
5 Under which economic corridor initiative
is the industrial park being established?
(A) South Asian Economic Corridor (SAEC)
(B) Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-
T)
(C) China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
(D) North American Free Trade Agreement
(NAFTA)
Answer: (C)
6 What percentage of women candidates
have been nominated for election on
general seats of national and provincial
2 What is the primary reason for the assemblies, as mentioned in the passage?
funding requirement in 2024 for Pakistan ? (A) 20%
(A) Education initiatives for Pakistani children (B) 11%
(B) Ongoing response to support Afghan (C) 33%
populations (D) 50%
(C) Infrastructure development in flood- Answer: (B)
affected areas 7 What specific provision does Ms. Kakar
(D) Wildlife conservation programs propose in the constitutional amendments
to enhance female voter turnout?
Answer: (B)
(A) Nullifying elections with less than 20%
3 How many children are expected to
overall voter turnout
benefit from the funding by gaining access
(B) Implementing mandatory voting for
to formal or non-formal education?
women
(A) 5,000
(C) Increasing the representation of women
(B) 8,000
to 50%
(C) 18,000
(D) Introducing reserved seats for women in
(D) 25,000
national assemblies
Answer: ©
Answer: (A)
4 On how many acres of Pakistan Steel Mill
8 According to the representatives of SAP
land does the federal government plan to
and Aurat Foundation, what other groups,
establish the industrial park? besides women, should have a minimum
(A) 1,000 acres of 33% representation in political party
(B) 1,200 acres structures and candidate preferences?
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Current Affairs MCQs

11 What is the projected international
receipts for Pakistan by the end of 2023,
according to the 'World Tourism
Barometer'?
(A) $800 million
(B) $1 billion
(C) $1.3 billion
(D) $1.5 billion
Answer: (C)
12 What is the reason behind the
expulsion of nine military officials from
China's parliament?
(A) Youth, minorities, and transgender (A) Personal disagreements
individuals (B) Restructuring in the military
(B) Only non-Muslim Pakistanis (C) Financial misconduct
(C) Only youth and minorities (D) Health issues
(D) Only transgender individuals Answer: (B)
Answer: (A) 13 What contributed significantly to the
9 What was Pakistan's recovery percentage rise in short-term inflation in the week
to pre-pandemic levels during the first ending December 28?
nine months of 2023? (A) Increase in the prices of cigarettes
(A) 92% (B) Surge in gas rates
(B) 105% (C) Decrease in the prices of onions
(C) 115% (D) Drop in the cost of vegetable ghee
(D) 80% Answer: (B)
Answer: (A) 14 Which item experienced the highest
10 How much was the surge in foreign annual increase in prices according to the
tourist arrivals in Pakistan compared to the provided data?
previous year during the first nine months (A) Wheat flour
of 2023? (B) Gents sponge chappal
(A) 50% (C) Mustard oil
(B) 92% (D) Tomatoes
(C) 115% Answer: (A)
(D) 130% 15 What was the percentage decrease in
Answer: (C) the prices of bananas year-on-year?
(A) 0.20%
(B) 5.2%
(C) 12.6%
(D) 58.5%
Answer: (A)
16 What is the reason cited by the Foreign
Office for declining India's request for
Hafiz Saeed's extradition?
(A) Lack of evidence
(B) Absence of an extradition treaty
(C) Political disagreements
(D) Security concerns
Answer: (B)
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Current Affairs MCQs

17 What is the purpose of the recently
conducted flight test by Pakistan?
(A) Testing a new aviation system
(B) Experimenting with satellite technology
(C) Developing a missile defense system
(D) Evaluating the Fatah-II guided rocket
system
Answer: (D)

22 What is the central commitment in PPP

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's 10-
point election manifesto?
(A) Triple salaries for all
(B) Provide 300 free units of electricity per
household
(C) Construct five million houses
18 How is the Fatah-II rocket system (D) Implement a nationwide health insurance
distinguished from its predecessor, Fatah- program
I? Answer: (B)
(A) Shorter range 23 Which sector does PPP aim to
(B) Longer range revolutionize through the 'Apni Zamin,
(C) Less accuracy
Apna Ghar' project?
(D) Lack of advanced avionics
(A) Education
Answer: (B)
19 What technology does the Fatah-II (B) Housing
utilize for precision targeting? (C) Healthcare
(A) Only satellite navigation (D) Agriculture
(B) Only inertial navigation Answer: (B)
(C) A blend of satellite and inertial navigation 24 What is one of the key components of
(D) Radar-based navigation PPP's election plan according to the given
Answer: (C) information?
20 What feature of the Fatah-II rocket is (A) Introduction of free Wi-Fi nationwide
emphasized as unique? (B) Expansion of the NICVD program
(A) High-speed propulsion (C) Launching a space exploration initiative
(B) Circular Probable Error (CEP) of less than (D) Establishment of youth centers for career
10 metres counseling and skill development
(C) Advanced pathfinding Answer: (D)
(D) Satellite integration 25 What term does Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari
Answer: (B)
use to describe the kind of politics he
21 When was the Fatah-II rocket system
envisions for the country?
first publicly disclosed?
(A) August 2021 (A) Divisive politics
(B) IDEF-2023 exhibition in Turkey (B) Hate-free politics
(C) Wednesday (C) Populist politics
(D) During India's missile defense upgrade (D) Authoritarian politics
Answer: (B) Answer: (B)
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Current Affairs MCQs

26 According to Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, 32 118 countries signed a pledge at the
what is the significance of PPP's return to ongoing COP28 climate summit to triple
power in the current situation? the world's green energy capacity to
(A) It will bring back dictatorship 11,000 GW by which year?
(B) It will strengthen the federation (A) 2027
(C) It will dissolve the 18th Amendment (B) 2030
(D) It will impose martial law (C) 2035
Answer: (B) (D) 2040
27 Hambantota port, which was seen in Answer: B
the news, is in which country? 33 The XEOLXELEK-Elk Lake fault (XELF),
(A) Israel which was discovered recently, is a 45-mile
(B) Ukraine long fault line on which Island?
(A) Santorini
(C) Sri Lanka
(B) Vancouver Island
(D) Afghanistan
(C) Java, Indonesia
Answer: C (D) Galápagos Islands
28 Which country signed MoU with Answer: B
Pakistan to invest around USD 20 billion in 34 International Day of Neutrality is
the country? observed annually on which date?
(A) Israel (A) December 10
(B) UAE (B) December 12
(C) Oman (C) November 21
(D) Afghanistan (D) January 24
Answer: B Answer: B
29 Second Thomas Shoal, that was in news 35 Recently, scientists identified hydrogen
recently, is located in which sea? cyanide, a vital molecule for the formation
(A) Red Sea of life, on Enceladus, a moon of:
(B) Mediterranean Sea (A) Jupiter
(C) South China Sea (B) Saturn
(D) Andaman Sea (C) Mars
Answer: C (D) Venus
30 Which technology company introduced Answer: B
a new AI model named 'Gemini'? 36 NOMA has recently been included in
(A) Microsoft the World Health Organization's list of
(B) Google neglected tropical diseases. Which body
(C) Samsung parts does this affect?
(D) Apple (A) Brain
Answer: B (B) Face and Mouth
(C) Intestine
31 Which is the first country in the world
(D) Kidney
to be officially validated by WHO for
Answer: B
eliminating kala azar as a public health 37 Recently, which country emerged as the
problem? winner of U-19 Asia Cup 2023?
(A) Pakistan (A) Iran
(B) USA (B) UAE
(C) Indonesia (C) Pakistan
(D) Bangladesh (D) Bangladesh
Answer: D Answer: D
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

Current Affairs MCQs

38 The recent eruption of Mount Ulawun 44 What was the theme of World AIDS
volcano happened in which country? Day 2023?
(A) Hawaii (A) Bridges of Understanding
(B) Papua New Guinea (B) Harmony in Healing
(C) Indonesia (C) Let Communities Lead
(D) Fiji (D) Community for Healing
Answer: B Answer: C
39 Which strait, that was recently in news, 45 What is the causative agent of white
lung' syndrome that was recently making
is also known as Gate of Tears in Arabic?
news?
(A) Bab al-Mandeb (A) Virus
(B) Strait of Hormuz (B) Bacteria
(C) Bass strait (C) Protozoa
(D) Strait of Johor (D) Fungi
Answer: A Answer: B
40 Recently, World Health Organization 46 Lula da Silva, who is seeking OPEC+
has prequalified the R21/Matrix-M vaccine membership for his country, is the
to prevent which disease? President of __:
(A) Malaria (A) Argentina
(B) Measles (B) Brazil
(C) Meningitis (C) New Zealand
(D) Monkeypox (D) Sri Lanka
Answer: A Answer: B
41 Dean Elgar, who recently announced his 47 Which country has framed 'One
retirement from International Cricket, is Province, One Policy' plan to handle
financial risk?
the former captain of which team?
(A) Pakistan
(A) Australia
(B) China
(B) South Africa (C) USA
(C) England (D) UK
(D) New Zealand Answer: B
Answer: B 48 The names of tropical cyclones in the
42 Amnya Fort, that was recently making Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea are
news, is located in which region? chosen from:_?
(A) Sahara (A) Suggestion of various countries
(B) Golan Heights (B) Suggestion of UNESCO
(C) Siberia (C) Suggestion of UNEP
(D) Alaska (D) Suggestion of UNFCCC
Answer: C Answer: A
43 Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), 49 U.S. Food and Drug Administration
that was recently in news, was established (FD(A) approved a treatment for which
by which of these two organizations? disease, based on CRISPR gene editing
technology?
(A) FAO and UNICEF
(A) AIDS
(B) FAO and WHO
(B) Sickle Cell Disease
(C) UNICEF and UNESCO (C) Diabetes
(D) World Bank and IMF (D) Cancer
Answer: B Answer: B
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 January 2024/Issue-01 CSS TIMES

Current Affairs MCQs

50 Article 370 of the Indian Constitution', (C) Democratic Republic of Congo
which was seen in the news, is associated (D) Russia
with_? Answer: D
(A) Special status to Jammu and Kashmir 54 Houthi rebels, that were making news
(B) Special status to Andhra Pradesh recently, originate from which country?
(C) Goods and Services Tax (A) Oman
(D) Economically Weaker Section (EWS) (B) Egypt
Reservation (C) Yemen
Answer: A (D) Palestine
51 Which country has recently surpassed Answer: C
Afghanistan to become the world's largest
producer of opium in 2023 according to
UNODC?
(A) Pakistan
(B) Myanmar
(C) Vietnam
(D) China
Answer: B
52 Who is the new President of Argentina,
that recently announced stern economic
measures like 50% devaluation of the
Argentine peso?
(A) Javier Milei
(B) Sergio Massa 55 The Essequibo region, that was recently
(C) Patricia Bullrich making news, is a subject of dispute
(D) Juan Schiaretti between which two countries?
Answer: A (A) Venezuela and Guyana
53 Recently, G7 nations have planned to (B) Venezuela and Brazil
block the entry of which country's (C) Brazil and Guyana
diamonds into their markets? (D) Guyana and Surinam
(A) China Answer: A
(B) Iran

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