Fine Arts Dept wants speedy return of Thai artefacts from USA

14 Sept 08:30 Key points summarised by AI

The Thai Fine Arts Department urges accelerated efforts to retrieve stolen artefacts from Si Thep historical park, now a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, currently held in US museums.
Director General Phanombootra Chandrajoti estimates a three-year process, citing illegal smuggling and the absence or falsification of export permits for many artefacts.
Initial efforts to reclaim approximately ten pieces are underway, with strong cooperation from the US Department of Homeland Security.
Specific examples include a standing Buddha image and a sandstone Phra Suriya at the Norton Simon Museum, detailing their illicit acquisition and reassembly from various parts.

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.