Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests
'Parting is such sweet sorrow': EU and UK clinch narrow Brexit accord
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'Parting is such sweet sorrow': EU and UK clinch narrow Brexit accord
13 Sept 08:53Key points summarised by AI
Britain and the EU clinched a last-minute, narrow Brexit trade deal, averting a chaotic 'no-deal' scenario just seven days before the UK's final departure from the bloc.
The agreement preserves zero-tariff and zero-quota access to the EU's single market for goods, a key outcome that prevents immediate economic devastation, though some disruption is still expected.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed the deal as taking 'back control' of Britain's destiny, while EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed relief, stating Europe could now 'move on' from Brexit.
Despite the deal, significant aspects of the future relationship, particularly regarding the crucial services sector (80% of the British economy), remain largely unaddressed, indicating ongoing complexities.
The accord requires swift ratification by the European Parliament, EU member states, and the British Parliament before the transition period officially ends on December 31.
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.