Biden pledges US will work with Southeast Asian nations

13 Sept 06:10 Key points summarised by AI

President Biden pledged robust U.S. collaboration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), asserting the bloc's centrality to his administration's Indo-Pacific strategy.
The U.S. aims to build a "free and open, stable and prosperous" region, addressing challenges from the South China Sea to Myanmar, climate, and health security, while countering China's expanding influence.
Biden's engagement in Cambodia serves as groundwork for his highly anticipated meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit, where issues like freedom of navigation and illegal fishing will be raised.
ASEAN elevated the U.S. to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" status, a symbolic move that places Washington on par with China in regional relations.

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.