Explanation

As per the report Pakistani economy will grow by 3.4% in 2025

The world economy will grow by 2.8% in 2025

The report titled ‘World Economic Situation and Prospects Report’ released in January 2025 by the United Nations (UN)

Explanation

About Henley Passport Index released in January 2025

Topper: Singapore

Bottom: Afghanistan

Pakistan rank: 103rd

Additional Information:

As per the above ranking, Pakistani passport has visa-free access to 33 states

This means Pakistani passport holders can travel to 33 countries without the requirement of a visa

The Henley Passport Index is released by the firm Henley & Partners based in the UK

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Explanation

About Costas Simitis

Born: June 1936

He served as PM of Greece from 1996 to 2004

He played a significant role in the integration of Cyprus into the EU

He died on 5 January 2025 at the age of 88.

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Explanation

Lionel Messi became the first footballer to receive the ‘American Presidential Medal of Freedom’.

He is a professional footballer of Argentina.

He received this award on 5 January 2025 from US president Joe Biden.  

Additional Information:

Presidential Medal of freedom is the highest civilian award of the United States of America.

Explanation

• Know everything about BRICS: 
• BRICS founded: June 2009
  
• The BRICS group currently consists of 10 member countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, and the United Arab EmiratesBRICS total members: 
• South Africa joined BRICS: 2010
• BRICS headquarters: Shanghai, China
• BRICS first conference hosted by: Russia (2009)
• Indonesia became 10th member of BRICS in Jan 2025

Explanation

Romania & Bulgaria become the full member of the European Union’s (EU) Schengen area on January 1, 2025

Schengen Area consists of a total of 29 European countries

The 29 Schengen countries include:

1: Austria

2: Belgium

3: Czech Republic

4: Denmark

5: Estonia

6: Finland

7: France

8: Germany

9: Greece

10: Hungary

11: Iceland

12: Italy

13: Latvia

14: Liechtenstein

15: Lithuania

16: Luxembourg

17: Malta

18: Netherlands

19: Norway

20: Poland

21: Portugal

22: Slovakia

23: Slovenia

24: Spain

25: Sweden

26: Switzerland

27: Croatia

28: Bulgaria

29: Romania

Explanation

The Russian government introduced a new tourist tax from January 1, 2025 to replace the previous resort fee. 

Now, travelers staying in hotels and other accommodations will have to contribute an additional 1 per cent of their lodging costs. 

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Explanation

• Uraan Pakistan, officially titled National Economic Transformation Plan 2024–29
• It aims to drive sustainable growth and modernize Pakistan's economy 
• • Launched by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 
• It is a five-year economic strategy
• Launched on 31 December 2024.

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Last updated by NS on 28April 2026

Explanation

The world's largest low-carbon hydrogen facility will be set up in American state of Texas. 

Set to be set up in 2029.

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Explanation

Recep Tayyip Erdogan is a Turkish politician serving as the 12th and current president of Turkey since 2014.

Political party: Justice and Development (2001–2014; 2017–present)

He previously served as prime minister of Turkey from 2003 to 2014 and as mayor of Istanbul from 1994 to 1998.

He also co-founded the Justice and Development Party in 2001.

He was reelected for a 3rd term on 28 May 2023, which is set to last until May 2028.