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February 17, 2026 February 17, 2026 - Current affairs for all the Exams: Global Diplomatic Reset: High-Stakes US-Iran Nuclear Talks and India-France Strategic Summit

On February 17, 2026, the international community witnessed a surge in high-level diplomacy as US and Iranian officials convened in Geneva for critical nuclear negotiations, while French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in India to bolster strategic ties through the AI Impact Summit.

The global geopolitical landscape on February 17, 2026, is dominated by several landmark diplomatic developments aimed at regional stability and technological cooperation.

1. US-Iran Nuclear Negotiations in Geneva

In a high-stakes effort to avert further conflict in the Middle East, officials from the United States and Iran met in Geneva, Switzerland, for a second round of indirect negotiations. These talks are particularly significant as they follow a brief but intense conflict in June 2025, during which Iranian nuclear sites were targeted.

  • Mediation: The talks are being facilitated by Oman, acting as a key intermediary between the two nations.

  • Key Participants: The Iranian delegation is led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the US side includes White House special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

  • Core Issues: The agenda centers on curbing Tehran’s nuclear enrichment program in exchange for relief from US economic sanctions. Washington is also pushing for restrictions on Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional armed groups.

  • Trump’s Stance: US President Donald Trump indicated he would be "indirectly" involved, emphasizing the importance of reaching a deal to prevent a broader war.

2. India-France Strategic Partnership: AI Impact Summit

French President Emmanuel Macron began a three-day official visit to India today, meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. The visit highlights the deepening "Strategic Partnership" between the two nations.

  • AI Impact Summit: The leaders are participating in the India AI Impact Summit, focusing on ethical AI development and joint technological ventures.

  • Year of Innovation: The duo officially inaugurated the India-France Year of Innovation 2026, aimed at connecting startups, researchers, and business leaders from both countries.

  • Significance: This is Macron’s fourth visit to India, signaling France’s role as a primary European partner for India in defense and emerging technologies.

3. China-Canada Relations: Visa-Free Entry

In a significant shift in bilateral relations, China has officially implemented a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Canadian citizens starting today, February 17. This move follows Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent visit to Beijing and is seen as a "confidence-building step" to restore ties that have been strained since 2018. The waiver covers tourism, business travel, and family visits through the end of 2026.

4. Other Key Global Briefs

  • Russia-Ukraine: The Kremlin announced an expansion of its delegation for ongoing talks in Geneva, with Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky continuing to lead the team.

  • Kosovo: Today marks the 18th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence, with major celebrations held in Pristina.

  • Global Health/Environment: Madagascar continues to reel from Cyclone Gezani, with the death toll rising to 59, while international aid efforts are being mobilized for over 420,000 affected people.

For students of competitive exams, these events underscore the themes of multilateralism, the role of middle-power mediators (like Oman), and the increasing intersection of technology and diplomacy.

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