Pope's visit to shine spotlight on war-ravaged Congo

13 Sept 13:09 Key points summarised by AI

Pope Francis's visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) aims to highlight the severe human cost of prolonged conflict and the exploitation of the country's vast mineral wealth.
The pontiff will meet victims of violence from the war-torn eastern region, expressing regret for being unable to visit Goma due to ongoing fighting.
Beyond Congo, Pope Francis also addressed the broader humanitarian crisis of African migrants, speaking about their perilous journeys across the Sahara and conditions in detention camps.
The visit underscores the immense suffering, displacement, and hunger affecting millions in the DRC, with the Catholic Church playing a vital role in advocacy and social services.
Following his time in Kinshasa, Pope Francis will travel to South Sudan, another nation grappling with conflict and poverty, joined by other Christian leaders in a significant interfaith initiative.

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.