China's Xi swears in new Hong Kong leader John Lee

13 Sept 06:13 Key points summarised by AI

Chinese President Xi Jinping officiated the swearing-in of John Lee as Hong Kong's new leader, marking the 25th anniversary of the city's return to Chinese rule.
Lee, a former security official who oversaw the crackdown on dissent, pledged allegiance to Hong Kong's Basic Law and accountability to the central government in Beijing.
Xi's visit underscored Hong Kong's transformation, praising its 'rebirth from the ashes' after the 2019 pro-democracy protests, now under much tighter Communist Party control.
Post-protests, Beijing implemented a sweeping national security law, introduced 'patriotic' curricula, and revamped election laws, effectively eliminating dissenting voices and ensuring only 'patriots' govern.

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.