QtrendsFrance's parliament voted to repeal the slavery-era Black Code in an emotional session. US-Iran relations remain volatile: Vice President Vance said a deal is 'very close' while the US simultaneously conducted fresh strikes, and negotiators reached a tentative 60-day truce extension with new nuclear talks planned. China continued its diplomatic push, highlighting UN contributions and seeking deeper economic ties with the UK.
The French parliament voted to repeal the Black Code (Code Noir), a centuries-old law that legally classified enslaved Africans as property. The historic vote came with emotional scenes in the chamber, 178 years after France abolished slavery. The Code Noir had governed the lives of approximately 1.4 million African slaves in French colonies.
US Vice President JD Vance stated that Washington and Tehran are 'very close' to reaching an agreement, though some issues remain unresolved. The optimistic assessment comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to address Iran's nuclear program and regional tensions. BBC reports have closely tracked the on-again, off-again negotiations.
The US conducted fresh strikes against Iran while simultaneously claiming progress toward a viable nuclear deal. Reports suggest a framework requiring Iran to abandon nuclear weapons ambitions in exchange for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. Experts say Trump's contradictory approach of bombs and bargaining is sowing confusion.
Negotiators from the US and Iran reached a tentative agreement to extend the ceasefire by 60 days and begin new nuclear talks. However, the US conducted additional strikes against Iran even as negotiations progressed, drawing criticism from Iran and China. Trump reportedly shared a draft peace agreement with Israel and other allies.
The Chinese Foreign Minister emphasized China's contributions to the UN and called for more just and equitable global governance. China and the UK are seeking to deepen economic cooperation. Chinese officials also highlighted China's poverty alleviation achievements as a model for Africa.