Biden, Xi compete for Asia-Pacific allies at summit

13 Sept 07:41 Key points summarised by AI

US President Joe Biden and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping actively competed for influence among Asia-Pacific allies at the APEC summit, just a day after their meeting aimed at reducing bilateral tensions.
Biden reassured regional leaders of unwavering US commitment, emphasizing the nation's role in maintaining peace and security, while working to strengthen alliances and economic frameworks like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).
Xi launched his own charm offensive, seeking foreign investment for China's economy, advocating against geopolitical rivalry in the region, and even hinting at deploying pandas as 'envoys of friendship' to improve ties.
Despite their prior meeting restoring military-to-military links and Xi's promise to curb fentanyl ingredient production, significant disagreements (e.g., Taiwan) and Biden's public 'dictator' comment underscored persistent underlying tensions.
Both nations employed distinct strategies to expand influence: the US focused on strengthening alliances and trade agreements, while China offered infrastructure and loans through its 'Belt and Road' program.

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.