'Freedom Day': Sydney reopens as Australia looks to live with COVID-19

13 Sept 09:18 Key points summarised by AI

Sydney ends its nearly four-month lockdown, reopening cafes, gyms, and restaurants for fully vaccinated customers, marking a pivotal shift towards Australia's strategy of living with COVID-19.
New South Wales (NSW) Premier Dominic Perrottet declared the day a 'freedom day,' acknowledging a likely rise in infections but committing to ending lockdowns in the state.
Australia plans a phased return to normalcy, including reopening international borders for vaccinated residents from November, with NSW aiming to accelerate these dates.
While NSW leads the reopening with high vaccination rates, other states with lower rates maintain stricter border controls and elimination strategies, highlighting a varied national approach to the pandemic.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.