Sweden, Algeria and Serbia want to sign TAC

10 Sept 16:59 Key points summarised by AI

Sweden, Algeria, and Serbia have expressed interest in acceding to the 1976 Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), a regional code of conduct signed by ASEAN leaders.
ASEAN members are currently reviewing these applications, requiring candidate countries to demonstrate substantive relations with the bloc and align with its overall objectives and interests.
The TAC aims to foster friendship, cooperation, and non-interference among signatories, thereby strengthening peace and security in the region.
Saudi Arabia is scheduled to become the 51st country to sign the TAC at an upcoming ASEAN ministerial meeting.
ASEAN will also issue a special statement to commemorate the 20th anniversary of China's accession to the TAC, reaffirming its commitment to the treaty's principles.

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.