Global Current Affairs 26 February 2026: World Events & Fact-Sheet for Competitive Exams
UNEA-7 Summit: The Final Roadmap for Global Plastic Treaty
The 7th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) concluded today in Nairobi, Kenya, with a historic consensus on the "Global Plastic Treaty."
• Objective: To end plastic pollution by 2040 through a legally binding international instrument.
• India's Stand: India pushed for "Circular Economy" models rather than a total immediate ban.
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Mandatory global standards for companies to recycle plastic waste.
- Financial Mechanism: A new 'Global Plastic Fund' to help developing nations switch to sustainable alternatives.
- Microplastic Regulation: First-ever international guidelines on limiting microplastics in the textile and cosmetic industries.
G20 Finance Ministers Meet: Addressing the 'Global Debt Distress'
Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of G20 nations met under the South African Presidency (2026) to discuss the rising debt crisis in Global South nations.
• Theme: "Solidarity, Equity, and Sustainable Development."
• Focus Area: Reforming Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) like World Bank and IMF.
- Common Framework for Debt Treatment: Speeding up debt relief for nations like Zambia, Ethiopia, and Sri Lanka.
- Crypto Regulation: Consensus reached on a "Global Crypto Asset Regulatory Framework" to prevent money laundering.
India-ASEAN Digital Payment Linkage: UPI goes Global
In a major press event today, India and ASEAN members finalized the cross-border real-time payment linkage using UPI (Unified Payments Interface).
• Significance: Reduces the cost of remittances and boosts tourism between India and SE Asia.
- Digital Diplomacy: India is using its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a tool of soft power.
- De-dollarization: This move encourages trade in local currencies, reducing dependence on the US Dollar.
The Global Pulse: 26 Feb 2026 (Short Facts)
• Space: ISRO’s Gaganyaan-3 mission successfully completed its 48-hour orbital test flight today.
• Science: Scientists in South Korea announced a breakthrough in 'Nuclear Fusion' by maintaining plasma at 100 million°C for 500 seconds.
• Sports: India officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games to the IOC today.
• J&K Fact: The Chenab Rail Bridge recorded its highest-ever tourist footfall in a single day (25,000) on Feb 26.
Daily Global Quiz
Which nation is holding the G20 Presidency for the year 2026?
A) Brazil | B) India | C) South Africa | D) USA
Correct Answer: C (South Africa)