Taiwan's presidential frontrunner picks US envoy as running mate

12 Sept 21:58 Key points summarised by AI

Taiwan's presidential frontrunner, Lai Ching-te, announced Hsiao Bi-khim, the island's former envoy to the United States, as his running mate for the upcoming January elections.
The pairing, labeled an "independence duo" by China, intensifies Beijing's military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, with Hsiao having been sanctioned twice by China for her "independence diehard" stance.
Hsiao, known as a "cat warrior" for her careful diplomacy, is highly regarded in Washington for significantly strengthening US-Taiwan relations during her tenure.
The Lai-Hsiao ticket represents the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's platform to "resist China" and maintain a "pro-US" stance, aiming to lead the country steadily amidst a complex strategic environment.

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

19 Oct 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.