Japan's luxury melons fetch $25,000

16 Sept 02:33 Key points summarised by AI

A pair of premium Yubari melons sold for an astounding $25,000 (3.5 million yen) at a festive market auction in Sapporo City, Hokkaido.
The high-value purchase by a local company reflects post-pandemic optimism, aiming to encourage tourism and consumption in Yubari City, renowned for its fragrant and juicy melons.

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.