Cabinet approves ฿10.5bn central fund for flood relief
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
Hong Kong leader says extradition bill is dead after mass protests
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Hong Kong leader says extradition bill is dead after mass protests
20 Sept 21:28Key points summarised by AI
Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam declared the controversial extradition bill officially "dead," admitting its handling was a "total failure" following widespread public opposition.
The proposed bill, which would have allowed extradition to mainland China, ignited massive and often violent protests, plunging the territory into its most significant political crisis in decades.
While Lam's announcement is a victory for opponents, it's unclear if it will appease protesters who have broader demands, including her resignation and an independent investigation into police actions.
The crisis highlights growing concerns over the erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy and freedoms under Beijing's rule, challenging the 'one country, two systems' framework.
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
19 Oct 12:56Key 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.