PM Srettha calls for innovative ASEAN-GCC partnership

22 Sept 13:45 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin urged an innovative ASEAN-GCC partnership for a sustainable future, committing to enhanced economic cooperation, climate action, and people-to-people relations.
He proposed boosting trade and investment through new free trade arrangements (Thai-GCC, ASEAN-GCC) and establishing an ASEAN-GCC business forum to strengthen private sector ties and promote food/energy security.
Srettha advocated for greater cooperation in sustainability, green financing, and energy transition towards net-zero emissions, while also promoting tourism via visa-free schemes and open sky connectivity.
Addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Prime Minister appealed for an immediate end to violence targeting civilians and the unconditional release of all hostages, noting Thai workers among those held.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Yesterday 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.