South Korea and the Netherlands held their inaugural high-level dialogue with foreign affairs and trade ministers in Seoul on February 11, 2026, reaffirming their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, economic security, artificial intelligence (AI), and other areas amid heightened global tensions. The ministers issued a joint statement emphasizing the need to strengthen their strategic partnership in the face of increasing geoeconomic tensions and rapid technological advancements. Building on the 2022 strategic partnership, they agreed to expand collaboration in semiconductors, quantum technologies, and critical mineral supply chains.
Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hany Sewilam, and South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation, Bimmy Majodina, opened a joint virtual seminar marking International Women's Day to discuss women's roles in water management and international water cooperation. Held under the theme "Water for People", the event gathered female engineers, scientists, and water-sector specialists from both countries to exchange expertise and underscore women's contributions to water governance and diplomacy.
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess has launched its 2026 Chess Women’s Day Celebration under the theme “Visible, Connected, Worldwide,” aiming to boost visibility and equity for women and girls in chess. Events throughout March include tournaments, exhibitions, and workshops across multiple continents. The initiative builds on last year’s success by fostering international connections and inspiring new players.
Senior diplomats from South Korea and the United States discussed efforts to strengthen their alliance through public diplomacy on April 1. They explored joint initiatives including digital communication and people-to-people exchanges, and signed a memorandum for the US 250th independence anniversary. The US expressed concerns over South Korea's recent online misinformation law revision.
Xsolla has marked International Women’s Day by highlighting women in the gaming industry. The company is advancing its vision for greater female leadership in the sector. This initiative underscores efforts to promote gender diversity in games.
The European Union launched the “Ward El Kheir” programme on World Water Day 2026, training Egyptian women to transform invasive water hyacinth from Nile canals into eco-friendly crafts like baskets and lampshades. The initiative turns an environmental nuisance into potential livelihoods for participants.
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, thousands gathered in 150 locations across France for International Women's Day, protesting sexual violence, rising conservatism, and economic inequalities. Gisèle Pelicot and her daughter Caroline Darian joined the Paris march, where the activist shouted « We won't give up! » to the crowd. President Emmanuel Macron stated that women's rights are « the fruit of constant struggles ».