Countering terrorism in region
Iran’s President Ebrahim Raeisi says respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in the region is the most effective way to counter terrorism. Raeisi made the remarks while meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Tehran. He touched on the cultural and historical commonalities between the two countries and expressed hope for an improved level of cooperation. He said the joint economic commission between Iran and Turkey could play a vital role in increasing commercial interactions. The Iranian president further emphasized the importance of effectively dealing with the presence of foreign forces in different regions, including the Caucasus. Fidan, for his part, said Iran and Turkey have great capacities to expand cooperation. The top Turkish diplomat earlier met with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and discussed with him a wide range of issues.
UK housing crisis
New data shows the rise in home rents in the UK is taking a heavy toll on people living in deprived areas. That’s according to nationwide data analyzed by the estate agent, Hamptons. The figures show that there has been an over 50-percent increase in monthly rents in poor areas across the UK over the past four years. That’s while the rental costs in the wealthiest regions have risen by nearly 30-percent in the same period. Experts say economic woes have forced many people to move to cheaper areas to find a place to live. As a result, monthly rents have risen in those poor districts. Official data reveal that residential rents in the UK rose by their highest amount on record last month since 2016.
Niger anti-France sentiments
Anti-French sentiments keep growing in the coup-hit Niger. People in the capital Niamey have held a third day of rallies against the presence of French troops in their country. The demonstrators chanted “Down with France.” They also vowed to continue their rallies as they’re determined to boot out the French troops. Anger at France is on the rise in the West African nation since a military coup in July. The military government has already ordered the French ambassador to leave Niger. The military rulers also on Friday took a swipe at the French government for meddling in Niger’s internal affairs by supporting ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum. Since Friday, tens of thousands of people have staged protests outside a military base where French soldiers are stationed.