Mahmoud Abbas | Age: 88 | Born on November 15, 1935, Mahmoud Abbas has been a pivotal figure in Palestinian politics for decades. Serving as the President of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian National Authority since 2005, Abbas has navigated the complexities of peace negotiations and internal political divisions. His political career, which began in the 1950s, saw him play a crucial role in the Oslo Accords. Despite numerous challenges and controversies, Abbas has remained steadfast in his pursuit of a two-state solution and continues to advocate for international recognition of Palestinian statehood. (Image: Reuters)

King Salman | Age: 88 | King Salman of Saudi Arabia, born on December 31, 1935, ascended to the throne in 2015. His reign has been characterised by a careful balance between preserving the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and initiating gradual reforms. King Salman’s leadership has navigated both traditional values and the need for modernisation in the kingdom. (Image: Reuters)

Ali Khamenei | Age: 85 | Ali Khamenei, born on July 17, 1939, has played a defining role in Iran’s political landscape for over four decades. As Supreme Leader since 1989, Khamenei has guided Iran through numerous regional and international challenges. His leadership is marked by a strong defence of Iran’s sovereignty and a strategic approach to its global positioning. Prior to becoming Supreme Leader, Khamenei served as Iran’s President from 1981 to 1989, during which he was instrumental in shaping the country’s foreign policy and handling the Iran-Iraq War. His tenure as Supreme Leader has been pivotal in maintaining control over Iran’s internal affairs and confronting external pressures. (Image: Reuters)

Muhammad Yunus | Age: 84 | Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Laureate, has been appointed to lead Bangladesh’s interim government. Born on June 28, 1940, in Chittagong, then British India, Yunus is a distinguished economist and the founder of Grameen Bank. His academic journey led him from Dhaka University to Vanderbilt University in the USA, where he earned a PhD in economics. Yunus’s groundbreaking work in micro-finance earned him the Nobel Peace Prize, and his contributions have been recognised with prestigious awards like the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Seoul Peace Prize. (Image: Reuters)

Joe Biden | Age: 81 | Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, was born on November 20, 1942. With a political career spanning several decades, including roles as a senator and vice president, Biden brings a deep well of experience to his presidency, which began in 2021. His tenure in the White House reflects his lifelong dedication to public service and his efforts to steer the nation through the complexities of modern governance. (Image: Reuters)

Narendra Modi | Age: 73 | India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, born on September 17, 1950, has been a central figure in Indian politics since he assumed office in 2014. Before becoming Prime Minister, Modi served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014. Ambitious economic reforms, such as the demonetisation policy and the Goods and Services Tax implementation have marked his tenure. Modi’s leadership has also focused on enhancing India’s global presence, promoting initiatives like ‘Make in India’ to strengthen the nation’s manufacturing sector and digital infrastructure. (Image: Reuters)

Shehbaz Sharif | Age: 72 | Shehbaz Sharif, born on September 23, 1951, took office as Pakistan’s Prime Minister in 2022. With a political career highlighted by his tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab, Sharif has built a reputation for his focus on development and governance. His leadership marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s political history, as he aims to address the nation’s pressing challenges. (Image: Reuters)

Vladimir Putin | Age: 71 | Vladimir Putin, born on October 7, 1952, has dominated Russian politics for more than two decades. His career began in the KGB, leading to his rise under President Boris Yeltsin and eventual appointment as Prime Minister in 1999. As President, Putin has overseen the centralisation of power in Russia and reasserted the country’s influence on the world stage. His tenure has been characterised by both economic growth and significant political controversies, particularly regarding his foreign policy. (Image: Reuters)

Xi Jinping | Age: 70 | Born on June 15, 1953, Xi Jinping has been at the helm of China’s leadership as its paramount leader. His tenure has been marked by an assertive foreign policy and efforts to rejuvenate the nation, positioning China as a global superpower. Xi’s leadership has driven significant economic and technological advancements, reinforcing China’s influence on the world stage. (Image: Reuters)