North Korea's Kim admits mistakes as party congress opens: KCNA

13 Sept 19:12 Key points summarised by AI

Kim Jong Un admitted North Korea's five-year economic development plan failed in "almost all areas" during the opening of a rare Workers' Party congress.
This significant congress, the first in five years, convenes amid heightened isolation due to COVID-19 border closures and stalled denuclearization talks with the US.
The gathering is anticipated to focus on domestic issues, reaffirming "self-reliance" and outlining a new economic strategy, potentially signaling messages to the incoming Biden administration.
Key officials, including Kim's influential sister Kim Yo Jong, were elected to the presidium, indicating her increasing standing within the regime.

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

19 Oct 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.