Macron begins China trip with Ukraine, trade on agenda

13 Sept 10:00 Key points summarised by AI

French President Emmanuel Macron commenced a three-day visit to Beijing, primarily aiming to dissuade China from supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine and to strengthen crucial trade ties.
Macron seeks to engage China on Ukraine by offering a less confrontational approach than Washington, coordinating with US President Biden to accelerate a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The trip also focuses on preserving and rebalancing China's trade relations with Europe, alongside safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen's participation highlights the visit's broader significance for the EU, cautioning Beijing against direct support for Russia while maintaining economic engagement.

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.