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Added on the 16/01/2023 18:14:23 - Copyright : AFPTV - First images
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola promises a package of "wide-ranging" reforms as the EU grapples with a widening graft scandal over allegations that MEPs received bribes from World Cup host Qatar in exchange for influence over EU policy. SOUNDBITE
Thousands rally in Georgia for a third consecutive day as lawmakers advanced a controversial "foreign influence" law that opponents say will undermine Tbilisi's longstanding European aspirations. The protesters, including a motorcycle procession, block traffic on the main thoroughfare of the Georgian capital, in front of the parliament building. IMAGES
Thousands gather in Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, for fresh street protests against controversial "foreign influence" legislation being debated in parliament. The bill has sparked outrage in Georgia and concern in the West, with many arguing it mirrors repressive Russian laws and undermines Georgia's bid for European Union membership. IMAGES
Belgian prosecutors have opened a probe into Russian "interference" in the European Parliament following allegations lawmakers were paid to spread Kremlin propaganda, Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo says. "Our judicial authorities have now confirmed this interference is subject to prosecution," De Croo said. "The cash payments did not take place in Belgium, but the interference does. As Belgium is the seat of the EU institutions, we have a responsibility to uphold every citizen's right to a free and safe vote." SOUNDBITE
France's National Assembly passes a bill designed to combat foreign interference, including a trial allowing intelligence services to use algorithmic surveillance techniques, currently reserved for counter-terrorism, for this purpose. IMAGES
U.S. President Barack Obama attends an outdoor arrival ceremony in heavy rain, as the first sitting U.S. president to visit Laos. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).