German economy posts zero growth in second quarter. German gross domestic product (GDP) remained level between the first and second quarters of 2023, according to new data released last week. Year-on-year, the economy contracted by 0.2% in the second quarter.

It is time for Europe's September ritual – the State of the Union speech. It has been a highlight of the EU agenda for the last 13 years. Every year, the president of the European Commission sets out his or her priorities to the plenary session of the EU parliament. Talking Europe hosts two MEPs, both vice-presidents of their groups, to share their impressions of Ursula von der Leyen’s address in Strasbourg on September 13th.

Three West African countries ruled by military juntas have signed a mutual defense pact. Mali and Burkina Faso had previously promised to come to Niger's aid in the event of an attack.

Germany has wanted reform of the UN Security Council for years. But its bids to join the exclusive circle of permanent members have always failed.

The talks took place over Saturday and Sunday, as the diplomats try to seek common ground over thorny issues such as Taiwan. The meeting may pave the way for Presidents Biden and Xi to meet in the near future.

Fiji claim historic win over Australia as England hold firm against Japan

We look at why US President Joe Biden is under pressure to join Detroit autoworkers on the picket lines as Donald Trump looks to woo them. Canadian papers react to PM Justin Trudeau's explosive statement accusing Indian government operatives of assassinating a Sikh leader on Canadian soil. Also: French papers discuss the link between social media and a wave of recent teenage suicides in France. We finish with a look at whether or not theft can be considered art.

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Wednesday.

Political parties in Poland are pledging to spend big to entice voters ahead of the national election in October. But can a faltering economy afford a splurge on handouts?

Citing declining inflation and a strong rebound in economic activity, Ghana's central bank on Monday (September 25) held its interest rate at 30%.

Diplomats from Beijing, Seoul, and Tokyo have met to explore restarting regular three-way summits to foster regional cooperation. The initiative has been on hold for the past few years.

Joe Biden makes history by becoming the first sitting US president to join a picket line, making the UAW autoworkers' strike a major battleground for the 2024 presidential race. Also, French papers take a look at what to expect as the government prepares to unveil a plan to tackle school bullying. We then take a look at reactions to the burgeoning refugee crisis in Armenia, and finish with an Economist special on the new science behind reversing ageing.