North Korea marks anniversary of founder's birth

14 Sept 04:04 Key points summarised by AI

North Korea celebrated the 109th birth anniversary of its founder, Kim Il Sung, known as the 'Day of the Sun,' with citizens in Pyongyang placing flowers and attending performances.
The festivities were more extensive than the subdued events of the previous year, despite the nation's continued strict border lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic and its heavy economic toll.
Current leader Kim Jong Un attended the commemorations, marking a contrast to his absence last year, and a floral tribute from him was prominently displayed.
However, major annual events like the Pyongyang Marathon and participation in the Tokyo Olympics were cancelled, reflecting the ongoing impact of the pandemic on the isolated state.

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.