The diplomatic rift occurred in 2021 when Australia canceled a multi-billion dollar contract to purchase conventional submarines from France. Instead, Australia entered into the AUKUS security pact with the United States and the United Kingdom to acquire nuclear-powered submarines. This decision caused significant strain in French-Australian relations, as France viewed the cancellation as a breach of trust regarding a major strategic partnership.
82
Which country unveiled a high-speed Maglev bullet train capable of reaching 600 kmph on July 20, 2021?
In July 2021, China unveiled a new high-speed maglev transportation system in Qingdao. This train is designed to reach speeds of up to 600 kilometers per hour, representing a significant advancement in ground-based public transportation technology.
83
When was the James Webb Space Telescope, a collaborative project led by NASA with contributions from Canadian and European agencies, fully deployed in space?
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was launched on December 25, 2021. Following a complex series of deployments, it reached its destination at the second Lagrange point (L2) and completed its primary mirror deployment and commissioning phases in January 2022. This milestone marked the telescope's readiness to begin its scientific observations of the universe.
84
Who currently serves as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala assumed the office of Director-General of the World Trade Organization on March 1, 2021. She is the first woman and the first African to serve in this position. Her leadership focuses on navigating global trade challenges, promoting economic recovery, and addressing issues related to international trade policy and development.
85
What was the official title held by the husband of the late Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom?
Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, was granted the title of the Duke of Edinburgh by King George VI shortly before his marriage in 1947. He held this title throughout his life and was a prominent figure in the British Royal Family until his passing in 2021.
86
What was the official name adopted by the Taliban for Afghanistan on August 16, 2021?
Following the fall of Kabul in August 2021, the Taliban declared the restoration of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. This name reflects the governance structure they previously utilized during their rule from 1996 to 2001. The transition marked a significant shift in the political status of the nation, moving away from the preceding Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.
87
Which of the following fields is not recognized as a category for the Nobel Prize?
The Nobel Prize is awarded in specific categories established by Alfred Nobel's will, including Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, Literature, and Peace, with the addition of the Prize in Economic Sciences. Geology is not a standalone category, and astronomical research is typically recognized under the Physics category.
88
Which global initiative did the United Nations General Assembly designate for the period 2021–2030?
The United Nations General Assembly officially proclaimed the years 2021 through 2030 as the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. This global movement aims to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide, fostering a sustainable future for both nature and humanity by promoting restoration efforts across all continents and oceans.
89
In which city was the world's first 12-meter long 3D-printed steel pedestrian bridge installed over a canal?
In 2021, Amsterdam became the site of the world's first fully functional 3D-printed stainless steel bridge. The structure was designed by MX3D and installed over the Oudezijds Achterburgwal canal. This project demonstrated the potential of robotic 3D printing technology in civil engineering and urban infrastructure, allowing for complex, organic designs that traditional manufacturing methods could not easily achieve.
90
Which Commonwealth member state transitioned into a republic in 2021, removing the British monarch as its head of state?
In November 2021, Barbados officially became a republic, ending its status as a constitutional monarchy under the British Crown. This historic transition saw the removal of Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state and the inauguration of the country's first president. This move was seen as a significant step in the nation's post-colonial development and the assertion of its full sovereignty.
