Bay of Bengal Group’s leaders converge in Bangkok

13 Sept 09:25 Key points summarised by AI

Leaders from the seven-member Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will hold their 6th summit in Bangkok from April 2-5 to strengthen economic and connectivity cooperation.
The summit will culminate in the signing of the BIMSTEC Summit Declaration and the adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030, outlining strategic directions for the organization's future.
Key focus areas for discussion include maritime cooperation, sustainable development, and enhancing regional connectivity among member states.
On the sidelines, Thailand and Bhutan are scheduled to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost trade relations and foster economic cooperation.

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.