German president begins official visit to Thailand

14 Sept 06:29 Key points summarised by AI

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier commenced an official visit to Thailand, hosted by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.
The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, with scheduled signings of cooperation agreements in railways and science, alongside an audience with HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn and HM Queen Suthida.
President Steinmeier's itinerary includes tours of key German investments such as Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing and the innovative hydro-floating solar hybrid project, highlighting economic and environmental collaboration.
This visit is Steinmeier's first to Thailand since taking office in 2022 and the first by a German Head of State in over two decades, underscoring renewed diplomatic focus.

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.