Japan to accept small-scale tours from 4 countries

14 Sept 10:36 Key points summarised by AI

Japan initiates trial small-group tours for vaccinated travelers from the US, Australia, Thailand, and Singapore, marking a cautious step towards easing strict COVID-19 border rules.
Travelers must be triple-vaccinated, possess private medical insurance, and adhere to existing pre-departure and on-arrival COVID-19 testing protocols.
Tours will feature predetermined itineraries, be organized by Japanese travel companies, and include local guides to ensure controlled environments.
This limited pilot program reflects Japan's slow approach to reopening, with no immediate plans for a full lifting of border restrictions, aligning with strong public support for current measures.

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.