The Washington Declaration was signed by South Korea and the United States. The signing was motivated by North Korea’s successful launch of the Hwasong-8 solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The agreement outlines a strengthened strategic partnership with objectives aimed at countering regional aggression from North Korea. These joint efforts include several measures such as deploying an American nuclear ballistic submarine on the Korean peninsula, forming a nuclear consultative group, and providing South Korea with intelligence about nuclear advancements.
South Korea’s Commitment to Non-Proliferation
Despite being under constant threat, South Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to the non-proliferation Treaty, assuring that it would not engage in creating its own nuclear capabilities. The U.S., on the other hand, has expressed reluctance in allowing South Korea to develop its own nuclear capabilities. This hesitation is primarily due to concerns over global nuclear arms control and the overall aim of non-proliferation. The U.S. assures that it would protect its allies using its nuclear weapons, aligning these actions with broader objectives for non-proliferation.
Criticism against the Washington Declaration
Even though the Washington Declaration intends to promote peace and security, critics are many. China and North Korea have been vocal in their criticism of the agreement. At the domestic level, skepticism within the South Korean public is evident with a majority favoring the development of their own nuclear deterrence measures.
World Pulmonary Hypertension Day
World Pulmonary Hypertension Day is globally observed annually on May 5th. Originated in Madrid, Spain in 2012, the day has been chosen to honor the first child’s death in Spain from pulmonary hypertension caused by toxic rapeseed oil. The objective of this day is to raise awareness on Pulmonary Hypertension (PH), a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. The theme for World Pulmonary Hypertension Day 2023 is “Together We Are Stronger,” emphasizing collective efforts to increase awareness, support patients and their families, and advocate for greater access to care and treatment.
The Forthcoming Cyclone Mocha
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for the possible development of a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Bay of Bengal on the 6th of May 2023. As per IMD’s preliminary analysis, the cyclone could potentially develop into a ‘severe cyclonic storm’. This impending cyclone, named Cyclone Mocha, is significant as it could potentially be the first cyclone to form this year. The naming convention, proposed by Yemen, is according to the standards set by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) which mandates the naming of cyclones for clarity.
New World Bank President’s Term Commences
Starting from June 2nd, 2023, Ajay Banga will begin his five-year term as the new President of the World Bank Group. He will serve not only as the President of the World Bank Group but also occupy the Chair of the Executive Directors Board of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). Additionally, he will become the ex-officio Chair of the Board of Directors for several organizations including the International Development Association (IDA), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and Administrative Council of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The selection process for this prestigious position is transparent and merit-based, allowing any national of the Bank’s membership to be nominated.
