China's Xi leaves on first state visit to North Korea

13 Sept 05:48 Key points summarised by AI

Chinese President Xi Jinping began a two-day state visit to North Korea, marking the first by a Chinese leader in 14 years, accompanied by top diplomats and economic officials.
The visit aims to offer potential economic support to North Korea's struggling, sanctions-hit economy, occurring amidst renewed tensions on the Korean peninsula regarding denuclearization talks with the United States.
China, North Korea's primary ally, seeks to strengthen their 'blood ties' and may provide economic assistance through increased people-to-people exchanges and tourism, navigating international sanctions without direct violations.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Yesterday 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.