G20 ministers launch billion-dollar pandemic fund

13 Sept 09:02 Key points summarised by AI

G20 health and finance ministers launched a $1.4 billion fund aimed at preventing and preparing for future global pandemics.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo, while welcoming the fund, stated it was insufficient, estimating $31 billion is required to adequately tackle the next global health crisis.
The fund has garnered contributions from G20 and non-G20 members, including a significant $450 million from the United States, and philanthropic organizations.
This initiative is seen as a key outcome of the G20 summit, designed to strengthen health systems and resilience, particularly in low and middle-income countries.

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.