World agenda February 2024
EVENTS in February include the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, NATO’s largest military exercise since the Cold War, national elections in Indonesia and Pakistan, and the celebration of the Chinese New Year.
Feb-Jun, Europe: NATO’s largest military exercise since the Cold War, involving 90,000 troops, is staged in Germany, Poland and the Baltic states. Exercise Steadfast Defender will practise how the alliance would repel a Russian invasion.
February 8, Pakistan: Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif is tipped to win delayed national elections, while the party of jailed former premier Imran Khan faces an uphill battle to secure votes.
February 8, UK: Props from the Netflix series The Crown are auctioned in London. Star lots include a replica of Princess Diana’s 1994 “revenge” dress.
February 10-24, China: Billions of people worldwide celebrate the Chinese New Year. The Year of the Dragon symbolises power, growth and abundance.
February 11, US: Super Bowl LVIII is staged at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with R&B icon Usher headlining the half-time show.
February 14, Indonesia: Voters head to the polls to choose a new president, with front runner Prabowo Subianto aiming for a decisive victory in his third bid to become leader.
February 15, Japan: The new flagship H3 rocket is due to blast off. It is hoped the 63m-tall heavy payload projectile will capitalize on growing demand for launch vehicles in the global space industry.
February 24, Ukraine: EU leaders aim to agree new sanctions on Russia by the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, and unlock $50b of aid to Kviv – vetoed by Hungary.