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<p>France has been left shocked after four preschool children were stabbed mercilessly by a Syrian refugee knifeman in the French town of Annecy on Thursday. Two adults also suffered injuries in the horrific attack and were transferred to hospitals in the French Alps, across the Swiss border in Geneva.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The French authorities have opened an investigation into the incident after the police acted swiftly and overpowered the accused.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the attacker?</strong></h2>

<p>According to French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, the attacker is a 31-year-old Syrian national who was granted asylum in Sweden 10 years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Borne said the attacker arrived in France legally as he was carrying Swedish identity documents plus a Swedish driving licence. Despite being a 'homeless' and an 'isolated individual', the attacker had sought asylum in France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, owing to the bureaucratic work involved, his asylum request had not been processed so far. Borne said it was because he already had refugee status in Sweden. Notably, it was due to his&nbsp;EU refugee status that he&nbsp;was allowed to freely and legally travel to France before undertaking the deadly massacre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security sources and his ex-wife told AFP that he was recently divorced and in his early 30s.</p>

<p>"He called me around four months ago. He was living in a church," the ex-wife said on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shocking-news-from-france-knife-attack-in-annecy-injures-five-including-children-602200"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Shocking news from France: Knife attack in Annecy injures five, including children</strong></a></p>

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<p>French newspapers said the man declared himself to be a Syrian Christian in the asylum application form. He was also spotted wearing a Christian cross on a chain around his neck when arrested by the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the rumours circulating online, Annecy public prosecutor Line Bonnet-Mathis cleared the air saying there was "no evidence" of a terrorist motive.</p>

<p>Investigations have been opened for attempted murder and National Police, rather than anti-terrorist investigators are currently handling the probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, no information regarding the man has been received after the French authorities contacted&nbsp;international security and intelligence agencies. He had no criminal as well as psychiatric record.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened during the attack?</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday, around 9:45 am local time (0745 GMT), the suspect, wearing a blue-chequered headscarf and sunglasses, armed with a 10-centimetre-long knife, attacked a group of children aged around three years old.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the horrifying videos shows the suspect coming close to a baby in a pram and stabbing the little one multiple times. It also shows the mother, helplessly trying to stop the attacker. He can be heard shouting "In the name of Jesus Christ".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-knife-attack-video-shows-terrifying-moments-when-man-stabbed-a-child-multiple-times-602272"><strong>Also&nbsp;read | France knife attack: Video shows terrifying moment when man stabbed a child multiple times</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called the stabbing incident an “attack of absolute cowardice", adding that the nation was "shocked".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Attack of absolute cowardice this morning in a park in Annecy. Children and an adult are fighting for their lives. The nation is shocked. Our thoughts are with them as well as their families and the emergency services," he wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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France has been left shocked after four preschool children were stabbed mercilessly by a Syrian refugee knifeman in the French town of Annecy on Thursday. Two adults also suffered injuries in the horrific attack and were transferred to hospitals in the French Alps, across the Swiss border in Geneva.

France has been left shocked after four preschool children were stabbed mercilessly by a Syrian refugee knifeman in the French town of Annecy on Thursday. Two adults also suffered injuries in the horrific attack and were transferred to hospitals in the French Alps, across the Swiss border in Geneva. The French authorities have opened an investigation into the incident after the police acted swiftly and overpowered the accused. What do we know about the attacker? According to French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, the attacker is a 31-year-old Syrian national who was granted asylum in Sweden 10 years ago. Borne said the attacker arrived in France legally as he was carrying Swedish identity documents plus a Swedish driving licence. Despite being a 'homeless' and an 'isolated individual', the attacker had sought asylum in France. However, owing to the bureaucratic work involved, his asylum request had not been processed so far. Borne said it was because he already had refugee status in Sweden. Notably, it was due to his EU refugee status that he was allowed to freely and legally travel to France before undertaking the deadly massacre. Security sources and his ex-wife told AFP that he was recently divorced and in his early 30s. "He called me around four months ago. He was living in a church," the ex-wife said on condition of anonymity. WATCH | Shocking news from France: Knife attack in Annecy injures five, including children × French newspapers said the man declared himself to be a Syrian Christian in the asylum application form. He was also spotted wearing a Christian cross on a chain around his neck when arrested by the police. Despite the rumours circulating online, Annecy public prosecutor Line Bonnet-Mathis cleared the air saying there was "no evidence" of a terrorist motive. Investigations have been opened for attempted murder and National Police, rather than anti-terrorist investigators are currently handling the probe. Additionally, no information regarding the man has been received after the French authorities contacted international security and intelligence agencies. He had no criminal as well as psychiatric record. What happened during the attack? On Thursday, around 9:45 am local time (0745 GMT), the suspect, wearing a blue-chequered headscarf and sunglasses, armed with a 10-centimetre-long knife, attacked a group of children aged around three years old. One of the horrifying videos shows the suspect coming close to a baby in a pram and stabbing the little one multiple times. It also shows the mother, helplessly trying to stop the attacker. He can be heard shouting "In the name of Jesus Christ". Also read | France knife attack: Video shows terrifying moment when man stabbed a child multiple times Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called the stabbing incident an “attack of absolute cowardice", adding that the nation was "shocked". “Attack of absolute cowardice this morning in a park in Annecy. Children and an adult are fighting for their lives. The nation is shocked. Our thoughts are with them as well as their families and the emergency services," he wrote on Twitter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France knife attack: What do we know about the stabbing suspect so far?

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.</p>

<p>"France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs.</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1666501130535182339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact&nbsp;of the incident.</p>

<p>During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the…</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1666484256799858689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding</strong></h2>

<p>The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent&nbsp;Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv&nbsp;and Moscow have been accusing each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-prime-minister-denys-shmyhal-calls-kakhovka-dam-destruction-environmental-catastrophe-601821">Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe'</a></p>

<p>Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act'</strong></h2>

<p>President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday released a statement saying that his country would send aid to Ukraine "within the next few hours" after the Kakhovka dam breach triggered floods forcing the people to spend the night on roofs and trees. "France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs," Macron wrote on Twitter. I expressed to President Zelensky my solidarity with the Ukrainian people after the attack on the Kakhovka dam. France condemns this atrocious act, which is endangering populations. Within the next few hours, we will send aid to meet immediate needs. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) June 7, 2023 × The announcement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted to his French counterpart the urgent need to control the situation and handle the impact of the incident. During the call with French President Emmanuel Macron, they "spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the environmental and humanitarian consequences of the Russian act of terrorism, and outlined the urgent needs of Ukraine to eliminate the disaster", Zelensky said in a tweet. I had a thorough phone call with the President of 🇫🇷 France @EmmanuelMacron. Thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Summit of the European Political Community and for support at the UN Security Council. Spoke about the current situation in Kherson region, the… — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) June 7, 2023 × People forced to spend the night on roofs, trees due to flooding The destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine caused heavy flooding and people awaiting rescue in affected areas spent Tuesday night (June 6) on roofs or trees. The critical dam along the Dnipro River in Ukraine's Kherson region now held by Russia, collapsed on Tuesday. It is not yet clear who was responsible for the dam breach as both Kyiv and Moscow have been accusing each other. Satellite images taken by Maxar Technologies showed houses and buildings submerged, with many showing only their roofs, and water taking over parks, land and infrastructure. And many such people slept on roofs and sat on trees, waiting to be rescued, the news agency Reuters reported. 42,000 people at direct risk from flooding: Ukraine The Ukrainian government estimated that around 42,000 people are at direct risk from flooding which is expected to peak on Wednesday, and hundreds and thousands would be left without access to drinking water. In a statement, the agriculture ministry said the disaster would cut off the water supply to 31 irrigation systems in the Ukrainian regions of Dnipro. The dam's destruction has left 94% of irrigation systems in Kherson, 74% of those in Zaporizhzhia, and 30% in Dnipro regions without water, the ministry added. Also read: Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal calls Kakhovka dam destruction 'environmental catastrophe' Residents in affected areas have started fleeing, carrying children on their shoulders, dogs in their arms, and belongings in plastic bags while rescuers used rubber boats to search areas where the waters reached above head height. Putin reacts, calls Kakhovka dam attack 'barbaric act' President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday (June 7) called the attack on the Russian-occupied Kakhovka dam a "barbaric act", in his first public reaction to the situation. Moscow has already blamed Ukraine for the "catastrophic" attack. The hydroelectric dam was ripped open early Tuesday after a reported blast and in the aftermath, Moscow and Kyiv have traded blame for the attack. The Kremlin said in a statement that Putin told Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a phone call that the breach was "a barbaric act which has led to a large-scale environmental and humanitarian catastrophe". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French President Emmanuel Macron to send aid to Ukraine after Kakhovka dam breach

<p>The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (May 31) called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks... to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron said that various NATO members could provide these guarantees to the war-torn nation, Macron said, "We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Latest Russia-Ukraine war development&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN on Wednesday that the Kremlin is concerned about the situation in Belgorod.</p>

<p>Peskov said, "We are indeed concerned about this situation, shelling of civilian objects continues there. In this case, too, by the way, we have not heard a single word of condemnation from anyone from the collective West, so far. The situation is rather alarming. Measures are being taken."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It appears that the war, which majorly remained in Ukrainian territories, is gradually reaching Russia, as recently Belgorod Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that four people were injured in a "massive strike" on the town of Shebekino in Russia's southwestern region.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Gladkov said, "Two were promptly taken to a hospital in Belgorod. The man has shrapnel wounds to the neck and back, the condition is serious, and the woman has shrapnel wounds to the arm and forearm. Doctors are now conducting all the necessary examinations."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin jolted NATO</strong></h2>

<p>While speaking to reporters&nbsp;in Bratislava,&nbsp;Macron said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had jolted NATO awake by invading Ukraine last year. The French president said that he had a "harsh word for NATO in December 2019".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He recalled how he had called the Western defence alliance "brain dead" at the time. He added, "I can say that today Vladimir Putin jolted it awake with the worst of electric shocks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron also said that a European defence structure was "indispensable" for the bloc's credibility in the long-term. He said, "A Europe of defence, a European pillar within NATO, is indispensable. It's the only way to be credible... in the long-term."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also added that it was "up to us Europeans to in the future have our own ability to defend ourselves."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles.

The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles. Now, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (May 31) called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees. He added, "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks... to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine." Macron said that various NATO members could provide these guarantees to the war-torn nation, Macron said, "We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership." Latest Russia-Ukraine war development Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN on Wednesday that the Kremlin is concerned about the situation in Belgorod. Peskov said, "We are indeed concerned about this situation, shelling of civilian objects continues there. In this case, too, by the way, we have not heard a single word of condemnation from anyone from the collective West, so far. The situation is rather alarming. Measures are being taken." It appears that the war, which majorly remained in Ukrainian territories, is gradually reaching Russia, as recently Belgorod Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that four people were injured in a "massive strike" on the town of Shebekino in Russia's southwestern region. Gladkov said, "Two were promptly taken to a hospital in Belgorod. The man has shrapnel wounds to the neck and back, the condition is serious, and the woman has shrapnel wounds to the arm and forearm. Doctors are now conducting all the necessary examinations." Putin jolted NATO While speaking to reporters in Bratislava, Macron said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had jolted NATO awake by invading Ukraine last year. The French president said that he had a "harsh word for NATO in December 2019". He recalled how he had called the Western defence alliance "brain dead" at the time. He added, "I can say that today Vladimir Putin jolted it awake with the worst of electric shocks." Macron also said that a European defence structure was "indispensable" for the bloc's credibility in the long-term. He said, "A Europe of defence, a European pillar within NATO, is indispensable. It's the only way to be credible... in the long-term." He also added that it was "up to us Europeans to in the future have our own ability to defend ourselves." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Macron calls on West to offer Ukraine 'tangible and credible' security guarantees

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidnT1uUpeijlHX" /><meta charset="utf-8" />French President Emmanuel Macron is willing to make the hard choice. In a wide-ranging speech at an EU leaders' conference, Macron said it may not be possible to send Putin to face war crime trials when he is the only one that can negotiate an end to the Ukraine war.</p>

<p>In the frankest remark yet by a Western leader, Macron said it would be putting the stakeholders in an impossible situation if such a choice is not made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The timing issue – and this is where I want to be very transparent and honest with you. The question is if in a few months to come, you have a window for negotiation with the existing Russian political power, the question will be an arbitrage between a trial and a negotiation, I will be very frank with you," said Macron.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And you will have to negotiate with the leaders you have, de facto, even if the day after you will have to judge them in front of them of the international justice. So this is a question of articulation. Because otherwise, you can put yourselves just in an impossible situation where you say: ‘I want you to go to jail, but you are the only one I can negotiate with,’” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Offer Ukraine security guarantees: Macron&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Macron called on the&nbsp;West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees as the war lingers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We provide plenty of weapons to Ukraine, but we have not added it to any strategic security dialogue. If we want to carry weight with Russia, if we want to be credible to the Ukrainians, we must give Ukraine the means to prevent any further aggression and include it in sustainable security architecture," said Macron</p>

<p>"That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks...to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-meet-emmanuel-macron-urges-tangible-security-guarantees-for-kyiv-598961"><b>WATCH |&nbsp;NATO meet: Emmanuel Macron urges tangible security guarantees for Kyiv</b></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Macron's clarity&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Macron, in recent months, has emerged as one of the few Western leaders that has absolute clarity regarding contentious global issues. After visiting China in April, Macron advised Europe saying it must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc cannot be a follower of either the US or China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron told French business daily Les Echos and Politico on his plane journey back home.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-eu-must-not-take-us-china-side-on-taiwan-issue-after-beijing-visit-580767"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit</strong></a></p>

<p>Even then, Macron cited the example of the Russia-Ukraine war where the EU, despite its relative cohesion, had not been able to resolve the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong we will be there’? If you really want to increase tensions that’s the way to do it.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron is willing to make the hard choice. In a wide-ranging speech at an EU leaders' conference, Macron said it may not be possible to send Putin to face war crime trials when he is the only one that can negotiate an end to the Ukraine war.

French President Emmanuel Macron is willing to make the hard choice. In a wide-ranging speech at an EU leaders' conference, Macron said it may not be possible to send Putin to face war crime trials when he is the only one that can negotiate an end to the Ukraine war. In the frankest remark yet by a Western leader, Macron said it would be putting the stakeholders in an impossible situation if such a choice is not made. “The timing issue – and this is where I want to be very transparent and honest with you. The question is if in a few months to come, you have a window for negotiation with the existing Russian political power, the question will be an arbitrage between a trial and a negotiation, I will be very frank with you," said Macron. “And you will have to negotiate with the leaders you have, de facto, even if the day after you will have to judge them in front of them of the international justice. So this is a question of articulation. Because otherwise, you can put yourselves just in an impossible situation where you say: ‘I want you to go to jail, but you are the only one I can negotiate with,’” he added. Offer Ukraine security guarantees: Macron Earlier, Macron called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees as the war lingers. "We provide plenty of weapons to Ukraine, but we have not added it to any strategic security dialogue. If we want to carry weight with Russia, if we want to be credible to the Ukrainians, we must give Ukraine the means to prevent any further aggression and include it in sustainable security architecture," said Macron "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks...to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine," he added. WATCH | NATO meet: Emmanuel Macron urges tangible security guarantees for Kyiv × Macron's clarity Macron, in recent months, has emerged as one of the few Western leaders that has absolute clarity regarding contentious global issues. After visiting China in April, Macron advised Europe saying it must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc cannot be a follower of either the US or China. “The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron told French business daily Les Echos and Politico on his plane journey back home. ALSO READ | Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit Even then, Macron cited the example of the Russia-Ukraine war where the EU, despite its relative cohesion, had not been able to resolve the situation. “Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong we will be there’? If you really want to increase tensions that’s the way to do it.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Faustian bargain? Negotiation with Putin more important than war crime trials, says Macron

<p>Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about&nbsp;120 billboards in Avignon city depicting&nbsp;Macron in a suit and moustache. The caricature posters bore digits "49.3" and greying hair. The numbers pertain to an article&nbsp;of the Constitution that was utilised to pass pension reform legislation in the National Assembly.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>Photos from the daily newspaper La Provence show the phrase&nbsp;"No thank you" and the hashtag #agirousubir (act or suffer) surrounding the image of Macron, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lekto and Macron-Hitler fiasco&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The 30 posters were reproductions of a mural of French President Emmanuel Macron painted by a local street artist named Lekto that was put up on an electrical transformer along a major road in Avignon in April.&nbsp;The posters were taken down at the time and now they are seen on prominent billboards close to the town hall, the prefecture, and the railroad station.</p>

<p>In 2022, Letko is alleged to have painted a mural, that has since been removed, which showed Macron as the puppet of the Jewish political consultant Jacques Attali. Authorities regarded it as being anti-Semitic. "How far will they go in the indignity and abjectness? It is high time to sanction in the most severe way possible those who engage in such odious campaigns," tweeted the president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region, Renaud Muselier.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288">PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima</a></p>

<p>Avignon's town hall&nbsp;announced that it will lodge a complaint and that the police had been called in to take down the posters. Whosoever has put up the posters, according to the prosecution, would face fines of €12,000 for insulting the president as well as two months in jail and €7,500 in fines for inciting rebellion.</p>

<h2><strong>France Pension reforms&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>France witnessed a series of demonstrations and social unrest in response to the proposed changes to the country's pension system. The pension reform was a key policy agenda of President Emmanuel Macron's government.&nbsp;Under the reforms, the government increased the legal retirement age from 62 to 64.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester?</strong></p>

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<p>The reforms, as per Macron government, aimed to align the retirement age with increasing life expectancy, encouraging people to work longer before accessing their pensions. The changes were intended to ensure the financial viability of the pension system.&nbsp;</p>

<h1><strong>Charlie Hebdo caricatures&nbsp;</strong></h1>

<p>Caricature controversies are not new in France. The Charlie Hebdo caricatures, a series of satirical cartoons published by the French magazine Charlie Hebdo, depicting the Islamic prophet Muhammad led to widespread controversy and backlash.</p>

<p>Many Muslims found these cartoons offensive and disrespectful. The publication of the caricatures sparked protests, debates on freedom of speech, and discussions about the boundaries of satire and religious sensitivity.</p>

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Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about 120 billboards in Avignon city depicting Macron in a suit and moustache.

Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about 120 billboards in Avignon city depicting Macron in a suit and moustache. The caricature posters bore digits "49.3" and greying hair. The numbers pertain to an article of the Constitution that was utilised to pass pension reform legislation in the National Assembly. Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued Photos from the daily newspaper La Provence show the phrase "No thank you" and the hashtag #agirousubir (act or suffer) surrounding the image of Macron, as per reports. Lekto and Macron-Hitler fiasco The 30 posters were reproductions of a mural of French President Emmanuel Macron painted by a local street artist named Lekto that was put up on an electrical transformer along a major road in Avignon in April. The posters were taken down at the time and now they are seen on prominent billboards close to the town hall, the prefecture, and the railroad station. In 2022, Letko is alleged to have painted a mural, that has since been removed, which showed Macron as the puppet of the Jewish political consultant Jacques Attali. Authorities regarded it as being anti-Semitic. "How far will they go in the indignity and abjectness? It is high time to sanction in the most severe way possible those who engage in such odious campaigns," tweeted the president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region, Renaud Muselier. Also Read | PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima Avignon's town hall announced that it will lodge a complaint and that the police had been called in to take down the posters. Whosoever has put up the posters, according to the prosecution, would face fines of €12,000 for insulting the president as well as two months in jail and €7,500 in fines for inciting rebellion. France Pension reforms France witnessed a series of demonstrations and social unrest in response to the proposed changes to the country's pension system. The pension reform was a key policy agenda of President Emmanuel Macron's government. Under the reforms, the government increased the legal retirement age from 62 to 64. Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester? × The reforms, as per Macron government, aimed to align the retirement age with increasing life expectancy, encouraging people to work longer before accessing their pensions. The changes were intended to ensure the financial viability of the pension system. Charlie Hebdo caricatures Caricature controversies are not new in France. The Charlie Hebdo caricatures, a series of satirical cartoons published by the French magazine Charlie Hebdo, depicting the Islamic prophet Muhammad led to widespread controversy and backlash. Many Muslims found these cartoons offensive and disrespectful. The publication of the caricatures sparked protests, debates on freedom of speech, and discussions about the boundaries of satire and religious sensitivity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Posters depicting Macron as Hitler found on 120 billboards in France’s Avignon city, cops initiate probe

<p>Jean-Baptiste Trogneux, who is the great-nephew of French first lady Brigitte Macron, was attacked outside the family's famed Trogneux chocolate shop in northern of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports have mentioned that according to Trogneux's father, he was attacked by anti-government protesters on Monday evening in Amiens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (May 16) called the assault "unacceptable" and "unspeakable". At least eight people have been arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was assaulted because he is our great-nephew," said Macron while speaking after he arrived for a Council of Europe summit in Iceland.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"I consider these acts as absolutely unacceptable and as president of France they are unspeakable," Macron said, further adding that he expected justice to run its course in the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Labour day protests in France turn violent; Dust storm causes havoc in Illinois&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The victim's father, Jean-Alexandre Trogneux, told news agency AFP on Tuesday that his son was surrounded by anti-government protesters who insulted "the president, his wife and our family" before attacking him physically. He said, "They've crossed the line. I'm flabbergasted."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to the BFM channel, Trogneux said that his son had been left with several broken ribs, a head injury and a hand wound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Issuing a statement, Brigitte Macron condemned the "cowardice, stupidity and violence" of the assault. "I am in complete solidarity with my family and have been in touch constantly since 11 pm yesterday," Brigitte Macron added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brigitte Macron's family has run the Jean Trogneux chocolate shop in the heart of her hometown of Amiens for six generations, specialising in the Amiens Macaron, a local almond-based confection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During Macron's six years in power, the business has been targeted by demonstrators amid rumours that the first family has a financial stake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Politicians from both parties expressed their sympathies to the first lady and denounced the attack. MP Alexis Corbiere, who often criticises Macron's policies, said: "Hitting the great-nephew of a politician to target him is an act of cowardice."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Trogneux chocolate business has expanded widely from its base in Amiens. The beaten man's father, told the Courrier Picard local newspaper on Tuesday: "The shop is not involved in politics. Emmanuel Macron has got nothing to do with our business."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't understand all these people who continue to hassle us. Some of them even call for boycotts of our shops and products. They're getting everything mixed up," he added, and claimed that shops were frequently vandalised, salespeople were insulted, and death threats were received in the mail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told BFM, "We came close to the worst last night."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Jean-Baptiste Trogneux, who is the great-nephew of French first lady Brigitte Macron, was attacked outside the family's famed Trogneux chocolate shop in northern of the country.

Jean-Baptiste Trogneux, who is the great-nephew of French first lady Brigitte Macron, was attacked outside the family's famed Trogneux chocolate shop in northern of the country. Local reports have mentioned that according to Trogneux's father, he was attacked by anti-government protesters on Monday evening in Amiens. French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (May 16) called the assault "unacceptable" and "unspeakable". At least eight people have been arrested. "He was assaulted because he is our great-nephew," said Macron while speaking after he arrived for a Council of Europe summit in Iceland. "I consider these acts as absolutely unacceptable and as president of France they are unspeakable," Macron said, further adding that he expected justice to run its course in the matter. WATCH | Labour day protests in France turn violent; Dust storm causes havoc in Illinois × The victim's father, Jean-Alexandre Trogneux, told news agency AFP on Tuesday that his son was surrounded by anti-government protesters who insulted "the president, his wife and our family" before attacking him physically. He said, "They've crossed the line. I'm flabbergasted." While speaking to the BFM channel, Trogneux said that his son had been left with several broken ribs, a head injury and a hand wound. Issuing a statement, Brigitte Macron condemned the "cowardice, stupidity and violence" of the assault. "I am in complete solidarity with my family and have been in touch constantly since 11 pm yesterday," Brigitte Macron added. Brigitte Macron's family has run the Jean Trogneux chocolate shop in the heart of her hometown of Amiens for six generations, specialising in the Amiens Macaron, a local almond-based confection. During Macron's six years in power, the business has been targeted by demonstrators amid rumours that the first family has a financial stake. Politicians from both parties expressed their sympathies to the first lady and denounced the attack. MP Alexis Corbiere, who often criticises Macron's policies, said: "Hitting the great-nephew of a politician to target him is an act of cowardice." The Trogneux chocolate business has expanded widely from its base in Amiens. The beaten man's father, told the Courrier Picard local newspaper on Tuesday: "The shop is not involved in politics. Emmanuel Macron has got nothing to do with our business." "I don't understand all these people who continue to hassle us. Some of them even call for boycotts of our shops and products. They're getting everything mixed up," he added, and claimed that shops were frequently vandalised, salespeople were insulted, and death threats were received in the mail. He told BFM, "We came close to the worst last night." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brigitte Macron's relative beaten up at family chocolate shop by protesters

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<p>The Paris police force is the subject of heavy criticism after it allowed a group of 600-odd neo-Nazis to openly parade through the capital city last Saturday. Apart from the police force, France's interior minister is also facing heat from the opposition and the public over inaction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The march on Saturday saw hundreds of far-right extremists of "Comite du 9 Mai" (committee of May 9) dressed in black, walk through the city with flags and chant slogans to commemorate the death of Sebastien Deyzieu of the "Oeuvre Francaise" ultranationalist group in 1994.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, the march, which started from an upmarket Left Bank district of Paris was okayed by the city authorities and the police officers could be seen patrolling nearby. When quizzed about why the police was providing security to the group, the department said it did not have the legal powers to stop a protest/march unless there was a "proven risk to public order".</p>

<p>"Given that this demonstration had not caused any problems or public order issues during previous years, the Paris prefect was not in a position to take steps to ban it," the Paris police department said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/group-of-neo-nazis-celebrate-hitlers-birthday-raise-their-arms-to-salute-dictator-585327"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Group of neo-Nazis celebrates Hitler's birthday, raise their arms to salute dictator</strong></a></p>

<p>Notably, the march took place a couple of days before "Victory in Europe Day" (VE Day) - a public holiday in the country, used to commemorate the victory of Allied forces over Nazi Germany in 1945 and the lives lost fighting fascism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Socialist Party Senator David Assouline slammed the march and demanded Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin to 'explain' himself.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's unacceptable to have allowed 500 neo-Nazis and fascists to parade in the heart of Paris. Their organisations, the display of their ideology, slogans, insignias are as much an insult to the dead as an incitement to racial hatred," tweeted Assouline.</p>

<h2><strong>French government crackdown on 'saucepan' protesters&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While far-right activists were provided police protection, the authorities across the capital have been clamping down on protesters who are banging saucepans against the government for bringing the highly controversial 'pension reforms' law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fresh restrictions were imposed on saucepan protesters so as to prevent President Emmanuel Macron's voice from being drowned out by the noise during public speeches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-protests-against-pension-law-continues-582885"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;France: Protests against pension law continue</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, Macron attended a ceremony at the<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Arc de Triomphe war memorial where authorities had banned saucepan demonstrations. Similarly, in the eastern city of Lyon, protesters were forced to keep mum when Macron paid tribute to French Resistance hero Jean Moulin. An appeal by one of the trade unions was also rejected by a local court.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Paris police force is the subject of heavy criticism after it allowed a group of 600-odd neo-Nazis to openly parade through the capital city last Saturday. Apart from the police force, France's interior minister is also facing heat from the opposition and the public over inaction.

The Paris police force is the subject of heavy criticism after it allowed a group of 600-odd neo-Nazis to openly parade through the capital city last Saturday. Apart from the police force, France's interior minister is also facing heat from the opposition and the public over inaction. The march on Saturday saw hundreds of far-right extremists of "Comite du 9 Mai" (committee of May 9) dressed in black, walk through the city with flags and chant slogans to commemorate the death of Sebastien Deyzieu of the "Oeuvre Francaise" ultranationalist group in 1994. Surprisingly, the march, which started from an upmarket Left Bank district of Paris was okayed by the city authorities and the police officers could be seen patrolling nearby. When quizzed about why the police was providing security to the group, the department said it did not have the legal powers to stop a protest/march unless there was a "proven risk to public order". "Given that this demonstration had not caused any problems or public order issues during previous years, the Paris prefect was not in a position to take steps to ban it," the Paris police department said in a statement. ALSO READ | Group of neo-Nazis celebrates Hitler's birthday, raise their arms to salute dictator Notably, the march took place a couple of days before "Victory in Europe Day" (VE Day) - a public holiday in the country, used to commemorate the victory of Allied forces over Nazi Germany in 1945 and the lives lost fighting fascism. Socialist Party Senator David Assouline slammed the march and demanded Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin to 'explain' himself. "It's unacceptable to have allowed 500 neo-Nazis and fascists to parade in the heart of Paris. Their organisations, the display of their ideology, slogans, insignias are as much an insult to the dead as an incitement to racial hatred," tweeted Assouline. French government crackdown on 'saucepan' protesters While far-right activists were provided police protection, the authorities across the capital have been clamping down on protesters who are banging saucepans against the government for bringing the highly controversial 'pension reforms' law. Fresh restrictions were imposed on saucepan protesters so as to prevent President Emmanuel Macron's voice from being drowned out by the noise during public speeches. WATCH | France: Protests against pension law continue × On Monday, Macron attended a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe war memorial where authorities had banned saucepan demonstrations. Similarly, in the eastern city of Lyon, protesters were forced to keep mum when Macron paid tribute to French Resistance hero Jean Moulin. An appeal by one of the trade unions was also rejected by a local court. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French police and government under heavy scrutiny for allowing neo-Nazi rally in Paris

<p paraeid="{9e231d5b-e1a3-48f7-8e2d-ce674a4c69ed}{131}" paraid="495563083" >Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour for this year’s Bastille Day Parade in Paris scheduled to take place on July 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{8e282148-62ad-4390-be2b-ae9d0e09e69b}{102}" paraid="7843280" >In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Indian armed forces’ contingent will also partake in the parade along with their French counterparts. &nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{2994ec80-6729-4523-a4cc-8e648b20ecf0}{104}" paraid="349604689" >India and France have a shared vision on peace and security, especially in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, and uphold the objectives and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which are also the basis of their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{9e231d5b-e1a3-48f7-8e2d-ce674a4c69ed}{46}" paraid="468035982" >"This historic visit will also deliver common initiatives in order to respond to the key challenges of our time, including climate change, biodiversity loss and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, and will be an opportunity for India and France to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, including in the context of India's G20 presidency," according to the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{722bebb5-6ff6-4f07-80f5-69a5c9b9f25d}{105}" paraid="1480621441" >On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership, French President Emmanuel Macron extended an invitation to the Indian prime minister for this year’s Bastille Day Parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{da85d248-9a61-4093-9ac3-04b239a006fe}{78}" paraid="734887090" >While Modi&nbsp;has visited France numerous times, with the recent one in May 2022, this would be the first time in over a decade that an Indian prime minister will attend the annual military parade, since his predecessor Manmohan Singh was invited as the Bastille Day parade guest in 2009.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Security breach at Indian PM Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, mobile phone thrown at his convoy</strong></h2>

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<p paraeid="{cb088dfc-045b-436a-b76a-c068d540c401}{188}" paraid="1995713578" >The visit of the Indian leader is expected to herald the next phase of the India-France strategic partnership by setting new and ambitious goals for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a wide range of industries, the MEA said.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{cb088dfc-045b-436a-b76a-c068d540c401}{179}" paraid="2142795208" >“Modi's presence - and Indian forces' participation in the parade - would mark a new phase in the strategic partnership between France and India," Macron's Elysee Palace office said.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{cb088dfc-045b-436a-b76a-c068d540c401}{179}" paraid="2142795208" ><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-modi-backs-the-kerala-story-slams-congress-for-nurturing-terror-elements-589228">PM Modi backs 'The Kerala Story', slams Congress for nurturing terror elements</a></p>

<p paraeid="{0e83ce36-927f-4076-b9c7-502229a90fc1}{246}" paraid="1000071641" >The two nations would "set new objectives for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a large number of industrial sectors," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{0e83ce36-927f-4076-b9c7-502229a90fc1}{237}" paraid="163962093" >Macron in a tweet reacted to the announcement&nbsp;in French and Hindi saying, "Dear Narendra, it will be my pleasure to welcome you to Paris as the guest of honour for the 14th of July parade."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Cher Narendra, heureux de t'accueillir à Paris comme invité d'honneur du défilé du 14 juillet !<br />
<br />
प्रिय नरेंद्र, 14 जुलाई की परेड के सम्मानित अतिथिके रूप में तुम्हारा पेरिस में स्वागत कर के मुझे बहुतखुशी होगी। <a href="https://t.co/XTJi4MiE0E">pic.twitter.com/XTJi4MiE0E</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1654431586895421440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>France’s invitation to India reflects the Macron administration's growing attention towards the Indo-Pacific as it views New Delhi’s role to be crucial for the future geopolitical balance of power.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{2994ec80-6729-4523-a4cc-8e648b20ecf0}{87}" paraid="1768795078" >(<em>With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour for this year’s Bastille Day Parade in Paris scheduled to take place on July 14. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Indian armed forces’ contingent will also partake in the parade along with their French counterparts.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the guest of honour for this year’s Bastille Day Parade in Paris scheduled to take place on July 14. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the Indian armed forces’ contingent will also partake in the parade along with their French counterparts. India and France have a shared vision on peace and security, especially in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, and uphold the objectives and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which are also the basis of their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, it said. "This historic visit will also deliver common initiatives in order to respond to the key challenges of our time, including climate change, biodiversity loss and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, and will be an opportunity for India and France to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, including in the context of India's G20 presidency," according to the statement. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the India-France Strategic Partnership, French President Emmanuel Macron extended an invitation to the Indian prime minister for this year’s Bastille Day Parade. While Modi has visited France numerous times, with the recent one in May 2022, this would be the first time in over a decade that an Indian prime minister will attend the annual military parade, since his predecessor Manmohan Singh was invited as the Bastille Day parade guest in 2009. Security breach at Indian PM Narendra Modi's Mysuru rally, mobile phone thrown at his convoy The visit of the Indian leader is expected to herald the next phase of the India-France strategic partnership by setting new and ambitious goals for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a wide range of industries, the MEA said. “Modi's presence - and Indian forces' participation in the parade - would mark a new phase in the strategic partnership between France and India," Macron's Elysee Palace office said. Also read | PM Modi backs 'The Kerala Story', slams Congress for nurturing terror elements The two nations would "set new objectives for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a large number of industrial sectors," it added. Macron in a tweet reacted to the announcement in French and Hindi saying, "Dear Narendra, it will be my pleasure to welcome you to Paris as the guest of honour for the 14th of July parade." Cher Narendra, heureux de t'accueillir à Paris comme invité d'honneur du défilé du 14 juillet ! प्रिय नरेंद्र, 14 जुलाई की परेड के सम्मानित अतिथिके रूप में तुम्हारा पेरिस में स्वागत कर के मुझे बहुतखुशी होगी। pic.twitter.com/XTJi4MiE0E — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) May 5, 2023 × France’s invitation to India reflects the Macron administration's growing attention towards the Indo-Pacific as it views New Delhi’s role to be crucial for the future geopolitical balance of power. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Narendra Modi to visit Paris for Bastille Day parade as guest of honour on July 14 

<p>Fitch Ratings on Friday downgraded France's debt worthiness to "AA-" from "AA", claiming the political deadlock and social movements posed a threat to President Emmanuel Macron's reform policies which could in turn slow down the economy. It added the country's&nbsp;"fiscal metrics are weaker than peers".</p>

<p>"Public finances, and in particular the high level of government debt, are a&nbsp;rating&nbsp; weakness,"&nbsp;the credit rating agency noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Political deadlock and (sometimes violent) social movements pose a risk to Macron's reform agenda and could create pressures for a more expansionary fiscal policy or a reversal of previous reforms," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency warned that lower economic growth prospects and a decrease in competitiveness could contribute to a further downgrade in ratings.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>We will continue with reforms: French government</strong></h2>

<p>After the release of the ratings, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the government will continue to proceed with structural reforms to overhaul the economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I believe that the facts invalidate Fitch's assessment. We are able to implement structural reforms and we will continue to implement structural reforms for the country," Le Maire was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Do not doubt our complete determination to restore the nation's public finances. We have proven our ability...to pass reforms that transform the French economic model."</p>

<p>The assessment by Fitch ratings comes barely a week after Macron suggested that&nbsp;his government may be in danger&nbsp;as far-right leader Marine Le Pen continues to make gains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Marine Le Pen will arrive (in power) if we are unable to respond to the challenges of the country and if we introduce a habit of lying or denying reality," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron also lamented that&nbsp;he was not involved sufficiently in selling his highly unpopular pension reform bill to the public.</p>

<p>"Perhaps the mistake was not being sufficiently present to give a substance to the reform and carry it myself," Macron told Le Parisien newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-laments-not-selling-his-pension-reform-plan-adequately-to-public-585502"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron laments not selling his pension reform plan adequately to public</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>French court approves the bill</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, the French court approved Macron's pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the protests over the reforms are yet to stop. Parisians are still taking to the streets and demanding that Macron restore the status quo, which according to Fitch, may further impede Paris's economic growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Fitch Ratings on Friday downgraded France's debt worthiness to "AA-" from "AA", claiming the political deadlock and social movements posed a threat to President Emmanuel Macron's reform policies which could in turn slow down the economy.

Fitch Ratings on Friday downgraded France's debt worthiness to "AA-" from "AA", claiming the political deadlock and social movements posed a threat to President Emmanuel Macron's reform policies which could in turn slow down the economy. It added the country's "fiscal metrics are weaker than peers". "Public finances, and in particular the high level of government debt, are a rating weakness," the credit rating agency noted. "Political deadlock and (sometimes violent) social movements pose a risk to Macron's reform agenda and could create pressures for a more expansionary fiscal policy or a reversal of previous reforms," it added. The agency warned that lower economic growth prospects and a decrease in competitiveness could contribute to a further downgrade in ratings. We will continue with reforms: French government After the release of the ratings, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the government will continue to proceed with structural reforms to overhaul the economy. "I believe that the facts invalidate Fitch's assessment. We are able to implement structural reforms and we will continue to implement structural reforms for the country," Le Maire was quoted as saying by AFP. "Do not doubt our complete determination to restore the nation's public finances. We have proven our ability...to pass reforms that transform the French economic model." The assessment by Fitch ratings comes barely a week after Macron suggested that his government may be in danger as far-right leader Marine Le Pen continues to make gains. "Marine Le Pen will arrive (in power) if we are unable to respond to the challenges of the country and if we introduce a habit of lying or denying reality," he said. Macron also lamented that he was not involved sufficiently in selling his highly unpopular pension reform bill to the public. "Perhaps the mistake was not being sufficiently present to give a substance to the reform and carry it myself," Macron told Le Parisien newspaper. ALSO READ | French President Emmanuel Macron laments not selling his pension reform plan adequately to public French court approves the bill Earlier this month, the French court approved Macron's pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country. The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised. However, the protests over the reforms are yet to stop. Parisians are still taking to the streets and demanding that Macron restore the status quo, which according to Fitch, may further impede Paris's economic growth. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Fitch downgrades France’s credit rating, blames political risks and government debt

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<p>French President Emmanuel Macron regrets he was not involved sufficiently in selling his highly unpopular pension reform bill to the public. Macron's statement comes just over a week after he signed the bill into law but has since faced a hailstorm of criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Perhaps the mistake was not being sufficiently present to give a substance to the reform and carry it myself," Macron told Le Parisien newspaper, adding that he still had "confidence" in Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne whose job is seen as being on the line.</p>

<p>Ever since the reform bill was introduced, Borne has been one of the most vocal voices backing it. According to Borne, extending the pension age prevents the French fiscal system from collapsing under the weight of deficits.</p>

<p>"Leaving these deficits to grow would be irresponsible...It would lead inevitably to a massive increase in taxes, a reduction in pensions and would pose a threat to our pensions system," said Bonne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm very aware that making changes to our retirement system is causing anxiety and fears among French people."</p>

<h2><strong>Government in danger</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Macron added that his government may be in danger, come the next election as far-right leader Marine Le Pen continues to make gains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Marine Le Pen will arrive (in power) if we are unable to respond to the challenges of the country and if we introduce a habit of lying or denying reality," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The next presidential election is scheduled for 2027 but Le Pen has made sizeable gains in swaying the fence-sitters to her campaign. Macron has smelled the coffee and is warning the public about Le Pen's anti-immigration stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-approves-macrons-controversial-pension-reform-plan-582540" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | French President Emmanuel Macron signs controversial pension reforms into law</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>French court approves the bill</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, the French court approved Macron's controversial pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports, the court rejected six minor proposals, which included forcing large companies to publish data regarding how many employees above 55 were working for them and creating a special contract for older workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-protests-against-pension-law-continues-582885"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;France: Protests against pension law continue</strong></a></p>

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<p>Additionally, the council rejected a proposal put forth by the leftist parties which sought to organise a referendum on the pension reform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The very next day, Macron penned the bill into law by giving his assent. However, the protests over the reforms are yet to stop. The Parisians are still taking to the streets and demanding that Macron restore the status quo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron regrets he was not involved sufficiently in selling his highly unpopular pension reform bill to the public. Macron's statement comes just over a week after he signed the bill into law but has since faced a hailstorm of criticism.

French President Emmanuel Macron regrets he was not involved sufficiently in selling his highly unpopular pension reform bill to the public. Macron's statement comes just over a week after he signed the bill into law but has since faced a hailstorm of criticism. "Perhaps the mistake was not being sufficiently present to give a substance to the reform and carry it myself," Macron told Le Parisien newspaper, adding that he still had "confidence" in Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne whose job is seen as being on the line. Ever since the reform bill was introduced, Borne has been one of the most vocal voices backing it. According to Borne, extending the pension age prevents the French fiscal system from collapsing under the weight of deficits. "Leaving these deficits to grow would be irresponsible...It would lead inevitably to a massive increase in taxes, a reduction in pensions and would pose a threat to our pensions system," said Bonne. "I'm very aware that making changes to our retirement system is causing anxiety and fears among French people." Government in danger Meanwhile, Macron added that his government may be in danger, come the next election as far-right leader Marine Le Pen continues to make gains. "Marine Le Pen will arrive (in power) if we are unable to respond to the challenges of the country and if we introduce a habit of lying or denying reality," he said. The next presidential election is scheduled for 2027 but Le Pen has made sizeable gains in swaying the fence-sitters to her campaign. Macron has smelled the coffee and is warning the public about Le Pen's anti-immigration stance. ALSO READ | French President Emmanuel Macron signs controversial pension reforms into law French court approves the bill Earlier this month, the French court approved Macron's controversial pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country. The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised. According to reports, the court rejected six minor proposals, which included forcing large companies to publish data regarding how many employees above 55 were working for them and creating a special contract for older workers. WATCH | France: Protests against pension law continue × Additionally, the council rejected a proposal put forth by the leftist parties which sought to organise a referendum on the pension reform. The very next day, Macron penned the bill into law by giving his assent. However, the protests over the reforms are yet to stop. The Parisians are still taking to the streets and demanding that Macron restore the status quo. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French President Emmanuel Macron laments not selling his pension reform plan adequately to public

While addressing the nation, French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that he heard people's anger over raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, but insisted that it was needed to keep the pension system afloat as the population ages.

French President Macron says he hears people's anger but defends pension law

<p>More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict. In the latest news, the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the capital Khartoum. French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (April 17) defended his government's pension reforms by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. And the US on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. The men were identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-180-dead-in-sudan-violence-as-army-chief-declares-a-powerful-paramilitary-force-rebels-583458"><strong>Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum</strong></a></p>

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<p>After&nbsp;the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum.</p>

<p><br />
<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-defends-pension-reforms-as-opposition-asks-people-to-bang-pots-and-pans-583489">Macron defends pension reforms as opposition asks people to bang pots and pans</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/18/346005-untitled-design-7.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that he is aware of people's anger over raising the retirement age of 62 to 64. Macron, however, justified last Saturday's&nbsp;enactment of the new pension law&nbsp; by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-arrested-after-fbi-discloses-chinas-secret-police-stations-in-new-york-583500"><strong>Two arrested after FBI discloses China's secret 'police stations' in New York</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/18/346014-untitled-design-10.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The United States on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly&nbsp;setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. Dozens of Chinese security officials were charged over a campaign to monitor and harass Chinese dissidents living in the United States.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lavrov-says-russia-is-interested-in-ending-ukraine-conflict-as-soon-as-possible-583528"><strong>Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible'</strong></a></p>

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<p>Moscow is "interested" to end the ongoing war with Ukraine "as soon as possible", Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday (April 17) during a news conference with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Brasilia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Watch | WTO charges India with violating trade rules</strong></p>

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More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict.

More than 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured due to the unrest in Sudan. A deadly power struggle has derailed a shift to civilian rule in Sudan and has led to calls from the United Nations (UN) to stop fighting and raised fears of a wider conflict. In the latest news, the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the capital Khartoum. French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (April 17) defended his government's pension reforms by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. And the US on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. The men were identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59. Click on the headlines to read more Sudan unrest claims 200 lives, EU envoy 'assaulted' in capital Khartoum After the paramilitary force battling Sudanese army was branded a rebel group by country's army chief on Monday, it has emerged that the European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in capital Khartoum. Macron defends pension reforms as opposition asks people to bang pots and pans French President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that he is aware of people's anger over raising the retirement age of 62 to 64. Macron, however, justified last Saturday's enactment of the new pension law by suggesting that these changes were needed to guarantee everyone's freedom. Two arrested after FBI discloses China's secret 'police stations' in New York The United States on Monday arrested two men of Chinese descent for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York. Dozens of Chinese security officials were charged over a campaign to monitor and harass Chinese dissidents living in the United States. Lavrov says Russia is 'interested' in ending Ukraine conflict 'as soon as possible' Moscow is "interested" to end the ongoing war with Ukraine "as soon as possible", Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday (April 17) during a news conference with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Brasilia. Watch | WTO charges India with violating trade rules × WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morning brief: Sudan unrest claims over 200 lives, French Prez Macron defends pension reforms, & more

French Prime Emmanuel Macron is set to address the nation for the first time since the signing of the controversial pension reform into a law. Just hours after the Constitutional Court backed the pension reforms, Macron signed the legislation saying, the law is a huge setback for the protesters.

France pension reforms: Emmanuel Macron to address France amid pension chaos | World News | WION

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron officially promulgated the controversial pension reforms into law on Saturday. Macron&nbsp;signed into law the bill raising&nbsp;the country’s retirement age by two years, showed the official journal, after France’s constitutional court approved the widely unpopular pension reforms.<br />
<br />
Despite the&nbsp;approval by the constitutional court, the unions vowed to oppose the changes, including raising the retirement age from 62 to 64.&nbsp;The French court on Friday approved President Emmanuel Macron's controversial pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to&nbsp;reports, the court rejected six minor proposals, which included forcing large companies to publish data regarding how many employees above 55 were working for them and creating a special contract for older workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the council rejected a proposal put forth by the leftist parties which sought to organise a referendum on the pension reform.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Stage set for another round of clashes</strong></h2>

<p>The decision, however, has set the stage for another round of protests from the opposition as well as the common citizens.&nbsp;Unions made it clear that they were organising mass protests for Labour Day on May 1, while some cities saw violence erupt after the verdict was declared.</p>

<p>French hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melencho vowed that the fight against Macron's reform plan would continue despite the court's decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The fight continues and must gather force," said Melecho, leader of the France Unbowed (LFI) party.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-pension-reform-verdict-live-country-awaits-constitutional-ruling-on-higher-retirement-age-582536"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;France pension reform verdict LIVE: Court approves key elements of Macron's proposed plan</strong></a></p>

<p>The police are anticipating over 10,000 people to gather in Paris late on Friday night to protest the decision. Aspersions have also been cast over leftwing radicals attempting to vandalise the streets and engage in violent clashes.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>At the height of the protests, over 1.3 million had taken to the streets. After the court's decision, in a last-ditch attempt, French trade unions released a joint statement urging Macron to not sign the legislation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Given the massive (public) rejection of this reform, the unions request him solemnly to not promulgate this law, the only way to calm the anger which is being expressed in the country,"&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/emmanuel-macron-wins-pension-reform-backing-from-french-upper-house-572678"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron wins pension reform backing from French upper house</strong></a></p>

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<p>The Macron government is of the view that extending the pension age will prevent the French service system from collapsing under the weight of deficits.</p>

<p>Notably, the workers in France tend to retire much earlier than their European Union (EU) counterparts. The direct repercussion is that the French exchequer has to foot a bigger pension bill than most countries in the bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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French President Emmanuel Macron officially promulgated the controversial pension reforms into law on Saturday. Macron signed into law the bill raising the country’s retirement age by two years, showed the official journal, after France’s constitutional court approved the widely unpopular pension reforms.

French President Emmanuel Macron officially promulgated the controversial pension reforms into law on Saturday. Macron signed into law the bill raising the country’s retirement age by two years, showed the official journal, after France’s constitutional court approved the widely unpopular pension reforms. Despite the approval by the constitutional court, the unions vowed to oppose the changes, including raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. The French court on Friday approved President Emmanuel Macron's controversial pension reform plan to raise the retirement age. The decision was validated by the nine-member Constitutional Council after almost three months of protests across the country. The council was of the view that the government's actions were in line with the constitution and that the retirement age should be raised. According to reports, the court rejected six minor proposals, which included forcing large companies to publish data regarding how many employees above 55 were working for them and creating a special contract for older workers. Additionally, the council rejected a proposal put forth by the leftist parties which sought to organise a referendum on the pension reform. Stage set for another round of clashes The decision, however, has set the stage for another round of protests from the opposition as well as the common citizens. Unions made it clear that they were organising mass protests for Labour Day on May 1, while some cities saw violence erupt after the verdict was declared. French hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melencho vowed that the fight against Macron's reform plan would continue despite the court's decision. "The fight continues and must gather force," said Melecho, leader of the France Unbowed (LFI) party. ALSO READ | France pension reform verdict LIVE: Court approves key elements of Macron's proposed plan The police are anticipating over 10,000 people to gather in Paris late on Friday night to protest the decision. Aspersions have also been cast over leftwing radicals attempting to vandalise the streets and engage in violent clashes. At the height of the protests, over 1.3 million had taken to the streets. After the court's decision, in a last-ditch attempt, French trade unions released a joint statement urging Macron to not sign the legislation. "Given the massive (public) rejection of this reform, the unions request him solemnly to not promulgate this law, the only way to calm the anger which is being expressed in the country," WATCH | Emmanuel Macron wins pension reform backing from French upper house × The Macron government is of the view that extending the pension age will prevent the French service system from collapsing under the weight of deficits. Notably, the workers in France tend to retire much earlier than their European Union (EU) counterparts. The direct repercussion is that the French exchequer has to foot a bigger pension bill than most countries in the bloc. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French President Emmanuel Macron signs controversial pension reforms into law

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark has split the west. It triggered strong reactions from European politicians. Macron has never been shy making controversial statements and while the idea that Europe should stand on its own feet has been widely endorsed before, suggestions that they should distance themselves from the US, has bee termed by some as impractical and unrealistic.

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'vassal' comment rile EU partners

After Emmanuel Macron, Brazil's President Lula Da Silva is in China. Is this an indication that China's diplomatic blitz is succeeding? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Why is the world heading to China's doorstep?

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark has split the west. Should European nations chalk their own path & stop following Washington's instructions? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark splits the West

French President Emmanuel Macron stands by his 'vassal' comment, rile EU partners

Gravitas: Why is world heading to China's doorstep?

Gravitas: Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark splits West

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday (April 12) that being an ally of the United States did not mean being a "vassal". Macron recently faced criticism after he gave a controversial interview on the subject of Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the end of a state visit to the Netherlands, the French president told a press conference in Amsterdam that "Being an ally does not mean being a vassal." Defending his comments, Macron said that it "doesn't mean that we don't have the right to think for ourselves".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron, who last week visited China, said French and European policy on Taiwan had said that Europe should not be a "follower" of either Washington or Beijing and it must avoid getting caught up in any escalation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron said that France's and Europe's policy related to Taiwan "has not changed" and added that "France is for the status quo in Taiwan" and a "peaceful resolution to the situation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>China labelled Macron's interview as "brilliant", on the other hand, the West slammed it, with former US president Donald Trump saying that "Macron, who's a friend of mine, is over with China, kissing his ass".&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Dutch premier Rutte said he agreed with Macron that Europe "must be a player and not a playing field", but insisted that Washington remained an "essential partner when it comes to security and freedom". Rutte meanwhile said of the protests targeting Macron that "we are the hosts so you don't want that".</p>

<p>On being asked about it, Macron said that he had "nothing to say about the comments by former president Trump because he is taking part in this escalation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Self-ruled Taiwan considers itself a distinct nation from China, but Beijing claims Taipei&nbsp;as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China believes that the island nation will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday (April 12) that being an ally of the United States did not mean being a "vassal". Macron recently faced criticism after he gave a controversial interview on the subject of Taiwan.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday (April 12) that being an ally of the United States did not mean being a "vassal". Macron recently faced criticism after he gave a controversial interview on the subject of Taiwan. At the end of a state visit to the Netherlands, the French president told a press conference in Amsterdam that "Being an ally does not mean being a vassal." Defending his comments, Macron said that it "doesn't mean that we don't have the right to think for ourselves". Macron, who last week visited China, said French and European policy on Taiwan had said that Europe should not be a "follower" of either Washington or Beijing and it must avoid getting caught up in any escalation. Macron said that France's and Europe's policy related to Taiwan "has not changed" and added that "France is for the status quo in Taiwan" and a "peaceful resolution to the situation". China labelled Macron's interview as "brilliant", on the other hand, the West slammed it, with former US president Donald Trump saying that "Macron, who's a friend of mine, is over with China, kissing his ass". × Dutch premier Rutte said he agreed with Macron that Europe "must be a player and not a playing field", but insisted that Washington remained an "essential partner when it comes to security and freedom". Rutte meanwhile said of the protests targeting Macron that "we are the hosts so you don't want that". On being asked about it, Macron said that he had "nothing to say about the comments by former president Trump because he is taking part in this escalation". Self-ruled Taiwan considers itself a distinct nation from China, but Beijing claims Taipei as its own territory since the Chinese civil war of the 1940s. China believes that the island nation will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. Beijing even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Macron defends Taiwan comments, insists won't be US 'vassal'

<p>Former US president Donald Trump gave his first media interview since his indictment and consequent arraignment at a New York courthouse earlier this month.Trump raised doubts if Joe Biden would run for the White House again, and hit out at French President Emmanuel Macron for meeting with the Chinese leader Xi Jinping. In an interview with Fox News, while referring to the meeting between the two leaders last week, Trump said that Macron was “kissing his (Xi’s) &nbsp;a**.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Republican presidential frontrunner claimed that the United States had lost influence in the world since the time he stopped being&nbsp;president.</p>

<p>"You got this crazy world, it's blowing up and the United States has absolutely no say," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And Macron, who is a friend of mine, is over with China, kissing his ass. Okay, in China! I said, 'France is now going to China.'"</p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron was at the receiving end of&nbsp;Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-beijings-charm-offensive-jerusalem-on-boil-and-more-580784">charm offensive</a> last week when the former was on a rare state visit to the world’s second largest economy. Macron was seen being mobbed by students at a Guangzhou university as students scrambled to get a glimpse of him, the visuals translating into nothing short of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-french-president-macron-gets-rockstar-welcome-at-top-chinese-university-mobbed-by-students-580450">rockstar welcome</a>.</p>

<p>Following his China visit, Macron’s remarks caused a geopolitical storm in the US as well as the American foreign policy spectrum as he cautioned that Europeans should not chain themselves to US foreign policy.</p>

<p>Macron said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-eu-must-not-take-us-china-side-on-taiwan-issue-after-beijing-visit-580767">European countries should not get caught</a> in the tense standoff between Beijing and Washington over the fate of Taiwan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China has vowed to regain control of Taiwan, while the US government pledges to help Taiwan defend itself. In a bid to assert its claim over the self-ruled island nation, China’s military manoeuvres around Taiwanese waters have raised alarms across the Indo-Pacific the following week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Macron wraps up a three-day state visit to China</strong></p>

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<p>Macron, who discussed Taiwan with Xi on Friday, warned against Europe being "caught up in crises that are not ours, which prevents it from building its strategic autonomy."</p>

<p>"The paradox would be that, overcome with panic, we believe we are just America's followers," Macron said. "The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction."</p>

<h2><strong>What else did Donald Trump say?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Trump raised doubts if Joe Biden would seek re-election to the White House in the forthcoming US presidential polls. Trump’s doubts were based on his interpretation of Biden’s recent interview to NBC News, in which the sitting president declared that he plans on running but the Democratic Party is “not prepared to announce it yet”.</p>

<p>"Look, I watch him just like you do. And I think it’s almost inappropriate for me to say it. I don’t see how it’s possible," Trump said.<br />
Referring to Biden’s response to the question on him running for president again, Trump said: "[Biden gave] a long answer about the eggs and this and that,&nbsp;look, I don’t think he can.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Former US president Donald Trump gave his first media interview since his indictment and consequent arraignment at a New York courthouse earlier this month.Trump raised doubts if Joe Biden would run for the White House again, and hit out at French President Emmanuel Macron for meeting with the Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Former US president Donald Trump gave his first media interview since his indictment and consequent arraignment at a New York courthouse earlier this month.Trump raised doubts if Joe Biden would run for the White House again, and hit out at French President Emmanuel Macron for meeting with the Chinese leader Xi Jinping. In an interview with Fox News, while referring to the meeting between the two leaders last week, Trump said that Macron was “kissing his (Xi’s) a**.” The Republican presidential frontrunner claimed that the United States had lost influence in the world since the time he stopped being president. "You got this crazy world, it's blowing up and the United States has absolutely no say," he said. "And Macron, who is a friend of mine, is over with China, kissing his ass. Okay, in China! I said, 'France is now going to China.'" French President Emmanuel Macron was at the receiving end of Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s charm offensive last week when the former was on a rare state visit to the world’s second largest economy. Macron was seen being mobbed by students at a Guangzhou university as students scrambled to get a glimpse of him, the visuals translating into nothing short of a rockstar welcome. Following his China visit, Macron’s remarks caused a geopolitical storm in the US as well as the American foreign policy spectrum as he cautioned that Europeans should not chain themselves to US foreign policy. Macron said that European countries should not get caught in the tense standoff between Beijing and Washington over the fate of Taiwan. China has vowed to regain control of Taiwan, while the US government pledges to help Taiwan defend itself. In a bid to assert its claim over the self-ruled island nation, China’s military manoeuvres around Taiwanese waters have raised alarms across the Indo-Pacific the following week. ALSO WATCH | Macron wraps up a three-day state visit to China × Macron, who discussed Taiwan with Xi on Friday, warned against Europe being "caught up in crises that are not ours, which prevents it from building its strategic autonomy." "The paradox would be that, overcome with panic, we believe we are just America's followers," Macron said. "The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction." What else did Donald Trump say? Trump raised doubts if Joe Biden would seek re-election to the White House in the forthcoming US presidential polls. Trump’s doubts were based on his interpretation of Biden’s recent interview to NBC News, in which the sitting president declared that he plans on running but the Democratic Party is “not prepared to announce it yet”. "Look, I watch him just like you do. And I think it’s almost inappropriate for me to say it. I don’t see how it’s possible," Trump said. Referring to Biden’s response to the question on him running for president again, Trump said: "[Biden gave] a long answer about the eggs and this and that, look, I don’t think he can.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Trump doubts if Biden will run for president again, says, 'France is going to China'

French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview published on Sunday that Europe must not be a "follower" of either the U.S. or China on Taiwan, saying that the bloc risks entanglement in "crises that aren't ours".

Macron says Europe must not be 'follower' of U.S, China on Taiwan

French President Emmanuel Macron said that Europe should follow a strategy independent of both Washington and Beijing since it had no interest in seeing the Taiwan situation escalate. Macron warped up a three-day state visit to China in the southern city of Guangzhou Friday. Watch the video to know more.

French President Emmanuel Macron says, 'Europe's view on Taiwan should be independent'

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<p>Back from a three-day state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron is a man of fresh ideas. In a no holds barred interview, Macron said Europe must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc must not be a follower of either the US or China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron's statements come at a time when the US has been preparing the ground to assimilate Taiwan into the mainstream while China is flexing its military muscles near the island nation to send a stern message to rivals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron told French business daily Les Echos and Politico on his plane journey back home.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Stability in Taiwan paramount</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Taiwan issue 'intensely', keeping&nbsp;EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen at arm's length, which could describe the conciliatory approach taken by the French leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French prez.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-in-china-french-president-wants-xi-to-bring-russia-to-its-senses-579777" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Macron in China: French president wants Xi Jinping to ‘bring Russia to its senses</strong></a></p>

<p>Macron continued his assessment and cited the example of the Russia-Ukraine war where the EU, despite its relative cohesion, has not been able to resolve the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong we will be there’? If you really want to increase tensions that’s the way to do it.”</p>

<p>"We don't want to get into a bloc versus bloc logic," he added, saying Europe "should not be caught up in a disordering of the world and crises that aren't ours".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-president-xi-jinping-and-frances-emmanuel-macron-make-joint-declaration-from-beijing-579851" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Chinese President Xi Jinping and France's Emmanuel Macron make joint declaration from Beijing</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Macron was much more frank: Publication</strong></h2>

<p>The publication stated that Macron was much more frank in discussing Taiwan and Europe's strategic autonomy during the interview. However, after French President’s office, known as the Elysée Palace insisted on 'proofreading' the quotes prior to the release of the interview&nbsp;- some of the statements were cut out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during her layover, en route home, China launched a massive military exercise around the island, akin to the way it did last year after Pelosi's visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China sent its aircraft carriers, and anti-submarine helicopters and launched stimulated strikes hours after Macron departed for France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Back from a three-day state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron is a man of fresh ideas. In a no holds barred interview, Macron said Europe must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc must not be a follower of either the US or China.

Back from a three-day state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron is a man of fresh ideas. In a no holds barred interview, Macron said Europe must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc must not be a follower of either the US or China. Macron's statements come at a time when the US has been preparing the ground to assimilate Taiwan into the mainstream while China is flexing its military muscles near the island nation to send a stern message to rivals. “The question Europeans need to answer...is it in our interest to accelerate [a crisis] on Taiwan? No. The worse thing would be to think that we Europeans must become followers on this topic and take our cue from the US agenda and a Chinese overreaction,” Macron told French business daily Les Echos and Politico on his plane journey back home. Stability in Taiwan paramount According to reports, Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Taiwan issue 'intensely', keeping EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen at arm's length, which could describe the conciliatory approach taken by the French leader. “Stability in the Taiwan Strait is of paramount importance. The threat [of] the use of force to change the status quo is unacceptable," said the French prez. ALSO READ | Macron in China: French president wants Xi Jinping to ‘bring Russia to its senses Macron continued his assessment and cited the example of the Russia-Ukraine war where the EU, despite its relative cohesion, has not been able to resolve the situation. “Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong we will be there’? If you really want to increase tensions that’s the way to do it.” "We don't want to get into a bloc versus bloc logic," he added, saying Europe "should not be caught up in a disordering of the world and crises that aren't ours". WATCH | Chinese President Xi Jinping and France's Emmanuel Macron make joint declaration from Beijing × Macron was much more frank: Publication The publication stated that Macron was much more frank in discussing Taiwan and Europe's strategic autonomy during the interview. However, after French President’s office, known as the Elysée Palace insisted on 'proofreading' the quotes prior to the release of the interview - some of the statements were cut out. After Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during her layover, en route home, China launched a massive military exercise around the island, akin to the way it did last year after Pelosi's visit. China sent its aircraft carriers, and anti-submarine helicopters and launched stimulated strikes hours after Macron departed for France. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit

<p>The global Easter festivities culminated into a Mass presided over by Pope Francis in Vatican City where he called for peace amid raging conflicts all over the world. French President Emmanuel Macron is no more the same man of America-centered strategic outlook. Meanwhile, the Chinese actions of belligerence continued around Taiwan even on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easter-mass-2023-pope-francis-calls-for-peace-in-ukraine-palestine-amid-raging-conflicts-580746"><strong>Easter Mass 2023: Pope Francis calls for peace in Ukraine, Palestine amid raging conflicts</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344226-untitled-design-46.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Pope Francis presided over the Easter Mass on Sunday and called for peace amid raging conflict in Ukraine and recent escalation in violence between Israel and Palestine. The religious leader expressed "deep concern" over recent flare-up in violence globally.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-eu-must-not-take-us-china-side-on-taiwan-issue-after-beijing-visit-580767"><strong>Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/04/343146-macron-xi-jinping.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Back from a three-day state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron is a man of fresh ideas. In a no holds barred interview, Macron said Europe must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc must not be a follower of either the US or China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-urges-restraint-as-china-deploys-8-warships-58-jets-around-taiwan-on-second-day-of-drills-580598"><strong>China simulates precision strikes against Taiwan on Day 2 of drills; US urges restraint</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344209-untitled-design-2023-04-09t173210118.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The United States struck a note of caution saying that it was “monitoring” China as it continued its military drills around Taiwan for the second day on Sunday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hits-southern-syria-after-six-rockets-launched-at-golan-heights-explosions-heard-near-damascus-580568"><strong>Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344116-wion-images-2023-04-09t073156496.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Israel's military hit targets in southern Syria&nbsp;in retaliation&nbsp;after six rockets were launched from the Syrian territory toward Israel in a rare attack from its northeastern neighbour,&nbsp;said the Israeli military&nbsp;early on Sunday (April 9). &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-humans-bring-covid-19-to-wuhan-market-a-chinese-scientist-thinks-so-580741"><strong>Did humans bring Covid-19 to Wuhan market? A Chinese scientist claims so</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344220-untitled-design-2023-04-09t184820627.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>A Chinese scientist has come up with a new theory on the origins of Covid-19. He has claimed that the Covid-19 virus may have originated in humans. Tong Yigang of the Beijing University of Chemical Technology explained that the genetic sequences of viral samples taken from the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan were “almost identical” to those of patients infected with the coronavirus. He says that this likely suggests that Covid-19 may have originated from humans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-jews-walk-through-al-aqsa-compound-as-muslims-offer-ramadan-prayers-580716"><strong>In pics | Jews walk through Al-Aqsa compound as Muslims offer Ramadan prayers</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344195-2023-04-09t091122z2lynxmpej3801wrtroptp4israel-palestinians-violence-alaqsa-1.JPG?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Dawn Ramadan prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound ended peacefully on Sunday after days of heightened tension at the flashpoint Jerusalem site/ Meanwhile,&nbsp;a mass‮ ‬Passover benediction at the adjacent Western Wall also began. Some Jewish visitors could also be seen walking through the mosque compound under heavy police security.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-says-heatwave-will-take-over-several-parts-of-india-in-next-5-days-580682"><strong>IMD forecast says heatwave will take over several parts of India in coming five days</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344183-untitled-design-2023-04-09t161637939.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>North India is likely to witness a hot spell soon this year, with the&nbsp;India Meteorological Department (IMD) saying that several parts of the country will witness a spike in temperature in the next five days. The IMD warned that there would be a gradual rise of two-four degrees Celsius over the next five days in the country. The IMD warning comes after the agency said that except for parts of the northwest and peninsular region, most parts of India are likely to witness above-normal maximum temperatures from April to June.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indian-minister-nitin-gadkari-spells-out-plans-to-decongest-indias-capital-delhi-580656"><strong>WION exclusive: Indian minister Nitin Gadkari spells out plans to decongest capital Delhi</strong></a></p>

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<p>India’s Minister of Road and Highways Nitin Gadkari in an exclusive interview to WION spelt out his ambitious plan to decongest the roads in the national capital New Delhi.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2023-100-win-club-csk-mi-rcb-and-two-others-feature-in-the-elite-list-577342"><strong>IPL 2023: 100-WIN CLUB! CSK, MI, RCB and two others feature in the elite list</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/30/342094-1-mi.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31, here's a look at the teams with 100 or more wins in the history of the showpiece event.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-taylor-swift-joe-alwyns-complete-relationship-timeline-580620"><strong>Taylor Swift, Joe Alwyn's complete relationship timeline: First date, couple outings and more</strong></a></p>

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<p>In the last six years, Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn have made one thing clear - their relationship is an intimate but private one. And, they've always put up a united front in protecting their privacy. But their rare couple outings have shelled major relationship goals over the years.&nbsp;Nobody knows for sure when the two first met and fell in love, however,&nbsp;sleuths have determined that her 2017 song "Dress" refers to their first meeting.</p>

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The global Easter festivities culminated into a Mass presided over by Pope Francis in Vatican City where he called for peace amid raging conflicts all over the world.

The global Easter festivities culminated into a Mass presided over by Pope Francis in Vatican City where he called for peace amid raging conflicts all over the world. French President Emmanuel Macron is no more the same man of America-centered strategic outlook. Meanwhile, the Chinese actions of belligerence continued around Taiwan even on Sunday. Click on the headlines to read more: Easter Mass 2023: Pope Francis calls for peace in Ukraine, Palestine amid raging conflicts Pope Francis presided over the Easter Mass on Sunday and called for peace amid raging conflict in Ukraine and recent escalation in violence between Israel and Palestine. The religious leader expressed "deep concern" over recent flare-up in violence globally. Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit Back from a three-day state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron is a man of fresh ideas. In a no holds barred interview, Macron said Europe must strive for 'neutrality' on the Taiwan issue, adding that the bloc must not be a follower of either the US or China. China simulates precision strikes against Taiwan on Day 2 of drills; US urges restraint The United States struck a note of caution saying that it was “monitoring” China as it continued its military drills around Taiwan for the second day on Sunday. Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes Israel's military hit targets in southern Syria in retaliation after six rockets were launched from the Syrian territory toward Israel in a rare attack from its northeastern neighbour, said the Israeli military early on Sunday (April 9). Did humans bring Covid-19 to Wuhan market? A Chinese scientist claims so A Chinese scientist has come up with a new theory on the origins of Covid-19. He has claimed that the Covid-19 virus may have originated in humans. Tong Yigang of the Beijing University of Chemical Technology explained that the genetic sequences of viral samples taken from the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan were “almost identical” to those of patients infected with the coronavirus. He says that this likely suggests that Covid-19 may have originated from humans. In pics | Jews walk through Al-Aqsa compound as Muslims offer Ramadan prayers Dawn Ramadan prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound ended peacefully on Sunday after days of heightened tension at the flashpoint Jerusalem site/ Meanwhile, a mass‮ ‬Passover benediction at the adjacent Western Wall also began. Some Jewish visitors could also be seen walking through the mosque compound under heavy police security. IMD forecast says heatwave will take over several parts of India in coming five days North India is likely to witness a hot spell soon this year, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) saying that several parts of the country will witness a spike in temperature in the next five days. The IMD warned that there would be a gradual rise of two-four degrees Celsius over the next five days in the country. The IMD warning comes after the agency said that except for parts of the northwest and peninsular region, most parts of India are likely to witness above-normal maximum temperatures from April to June. WION exclusive: Indian minister Nitin Gadkari spells out plans to decongest capital Delhi India’s Minister of Road and Highways Nitin Gadkari in an exclusive interview to WION spelt out his ambitious plan to decongest the roads in the national capital New Delhi. IPL 2023: 100-WIN CLUB! CSK, MI, RCB and two others feature in the elite list Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31, here's a look at the teams with 100 or more wins in the history of the showpiece event. Taylor Swift, Joe Alwyn's complete relationship timeline: First date, couple outings and more In the last six years, Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn have made one thing clear - their relationship is an intimate but private one. And, they've always put up a united front in protecting their privacy. But their rare couple outings have shelled major relationship goals over the years. Nobody knows for sure when the two first met and fell in love, however, sleuths have determined that her 2017 song "Dress" refers to their first meeting.

Top 10 world news: Pope calls for peace at Easter mass, Macron's shift of views, and more

<p><strong>Marseille</strong>&nbsp;<strong>building collapse</strong>:&nbsp;An apartment building collapsed following an explosion in France port city of Marseille on Sunday. The high-flame fire burning within the rubble has hindered the rescue efforts as authorities fear as many as 10 could be trapped. Five injured have already been rescued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The five-floor building, located&nbsp;in an old quarter in the centre of France’s second-largest city collapsed after midnight (12:40 AM) on Sunday. It is still unknown what caused the explosion which led to the collapse of the building.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fatalities may be involved&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to&nbsp;Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan, over 100 firefighters were on the spot, battling the blaze,&nbsp;and warned there may be fatalities involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We’re&nbsp;trying to drown the fire while preserving the lives of eventual victims under the rubble. Firefighters are gauging minute by minute the best way to put out the fire. We have to be prepared to have fatalities in this terrible tragedy," said Payan.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-building-comes-crashing-down-in-indian-capital-no-casualties-so-far-569983"><strong>WATCH | Building comes crashing down in Indian capital, no casualties reported</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said there could be four to ten people under the rubble.&nbsp;"We don't know if they're alive or dead."</p>

<p>France President Emmanuel Macron took to Twitter to share a message and said his thoughts were with the people affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am thinking of those affected and their loved ones. Research is continuing with significant resources deployed. Thank you to the firefighters and rescuers mobilised," tweeted Macron.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Émotion avec Marseille, où un immeuble de la rue Tivoli s’est effondré cette nuit. Je pense aux personnes touchées et à leurs proches. Les recherches se poursuivent avec d’importants moyens déployés. Merci aux pompiers et aux secours mobilisés.</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1644984795284250627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The rescue efforts have also been impeded as an adjoining building also suffered a partial collapse. The firefighters had to bring down eight people from the building after they had sought refuge on the roof terrace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several witnesses have said there was a suspicious smell of gas which could have caused the explosion. The accident has once again highlighted the city's housing standards with shoddy structures housing thousands as&nbsp;several building codes remain violated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2018, eight people were killed in the city after two dilapidated buildings in the&nbsp;Noailles district caved in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Marseille building collapse: An apartment building collapsed following an explosion in France port city of Marseille on Sunday. The high-flame fire burning within the rubble has hindered the rescue efforts as authorities fear as many as 10 could be trapped.

Marseille building collapse: An apartment building collapsed following an explosion in France port city of Marseille on Sunday. The high-flame fire burning within the rubble has hindered the rescue efforts as authorities fear as many as 10 could be trapped. Five injured have already been rescued. The five-floor building, located in an old quarter in the centre of France’s second-largest city collapsed after midnight (12:40 AM) on Sunday. It is still unknown what caused the explosion which led to the collapse of the building. Fatalities may be involved According to Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan, over 100 firefighters were on the spot, battling the blaze, and warned there may be fatalities involved. "We’re trying to drown the fire while preserving the lives of eventual victims under the rubble. Firefighters are gauging minute by minute the best way to put out the fire. We have to be prepared to have fatalities in this terrible tragedy," said Payan. WATCH | Building comes crashing down in Indian capital, no casualties reported Meanwhile, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said there could be four to ten people under the rubble. "We don't know if they're alive or dead." France President Emmanuel Macron took to Twitter to share a message and said his thoughts were with the people affected. "I am thinking of those affected and their loved ones. Research is continuing with significant resources deployed. Thank you to the firefighters and rescuers mobilised," tweeted Macron. Émotion avec Marseille, où un immeuble de la rue Tivoli s’est effondré cette nuit. Je pense aux personnes touchées et à leurs proches. Les recherches se poursuivent avec d’importants moyens déployés. Merci aux pompiers et aux secours mobilisés. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 9, 2023 × The rescue efforts have also been impeded as an adjoining building also suffered a partial collapse. The firefighters had to bring down eight people from the building after they had sought refuge on the roof terrace. Several witnesses have said there was a suspicious smell of gas which could have caused the explosion. The accident has once again highlighted the city's housing standards with shoddy structures housing thousands as several building codes remain violated. In 2018, eight people were killed in the city after two dilapidated buildings in the Noailles district caved in. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Building collapses after explosion in Marseille, 10 remain missing

Iranian & Saudi FMs met in Beijing on Thursday. French President Macron also held talks with Xi Jinping on the same day. Is China now the world's biggest truce-broker? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Is China now the world's biggest truce-broker?

French President Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day state visit to China and he's scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping later today. Macron met with Chinese Premier Li Qang and National Assembly chairperson at the Great Hall of the People.

China: French President Emmanuel Macron meets Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Roundtable at top of trilateral meeting.

China's Xi Jinping meets with France's Macron and EU chief Von der Leyen

Shortly after the high-level meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French Counterpart Emmanuel Macron, the two leaders made a joint declaration. The leaders called for Russia-Ukraine peace talks "as soon as possible."

Chinese President Xi Jinping and France's Emmanuel Macron make joint declaration from Beijing

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