Current Affairs - International

India held high-level discussions with Ireland to strengthen cooperation in telecom and emerging technologies. The talks involved Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Ireland’s Jack Chambers, focusing on innovation-driven partnerships. Key areas included India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, such as UPI and DBT, rapid 5G expansion, and rural broadband development. Both nations also explored collaborative opportunities in advanced sectors like Quantum Communications, Artificial Intelligence, and regulatory innovation, highlighting their shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations through technology and digital transformation initiatives.

Tarique Rahman was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh following a decisive victory in the 13th Parliamentary Elections, where his party secured 209 out of 297 seats. The oath of office was administered by Mohammed Shahabuddin at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad in Dhaka. His appointment marks a significant political shift, ending the interim leadership of Muhammad Yunus and beginning a new chapter focused on economic recovery, institutional stability, and national reconciliation.

The Global South AI Impact Summit 2026 is being hosted by India at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This historic five-day summit marks the first global AI gathering held in the Global South, bringing together leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and international organisations from over 20 countries. The event focuses on shaping global Artificial Intelligence governance through three guiding pillars—People, Planet, and Progress—and seven thematic “Chakras.” By organising this large-scale international summit, India reinforces its position as a bridge between developed and developing nations and strengthens its leadership role in global digital governance and responsible AI development.

Seychelles partnered with India to unveil the SESEL Joint Vision aimed at strengthening sustainability, economic growth, and security cooperation. The announcement was made during President Patrick Herminie’s State Visit to India on 9 February 2026. The vision outlines collaboration in maritime security, digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, climate action, trade, and capacity building. It also coincided with 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The initiative reflects Seychelles’ strategic importance in the Western Indian Ocean and reinforces a long-standing partnership rooted in development cooperation and regional stability.

Seychelles received a USD 175 million Special Economic Package from India during the visit of President Patrick Herminie to New Delhi. The package covers social housing, e-mobility, health infrastructure, vocational training, defence, and maritime security. In addition, seven Memoranda of Understanding were signed to enhance cooperation in digital transformation, meteorology, governance, and health sectors. The initiative reflects India’s strategic focus on strengthening partnerships in the Indian Ocean region under Vision MAHASAGAR, reinforcing maritime security cooperation and deepening long-standing diplomatic ties between the two nations.