US 'concerned' after UN human rights chief visits China

15 Sept 08:50 Key points summarised by AI

The United States expressed deep concern over China's alleged efforts to restrict and manipulate the UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet's visit to Xinjiang, fearing it prevented an independent assessment of human rights conditions, particularly regarding the alleged genocide of Uyghurs.
Michelle Bachelet defended her trip as a chance for candid dialogue, not an investigation, while urging Beijing to avoid 'arbitrary and indiscriminate measures' in Xinjiang, despite criticism from activists who accused her of providing a propaganda victory to China.
Reports indicated that Xinjiang residents were warned against speaking openly, and no information was provided on missing Uyghurs, further fueling US concerns about the visit's limitations and Chinese state media's portrayal of Bachelet's meeting with President Xi Jinping.

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

Today 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.