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'

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

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;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/easter-mass-2023-pope-francis-calls-for-peace-in-ukraine-palestine-amid-raging-conflicts-580746">Easter Mass 2023: Pope Francis calls for peace in Ukraine, Palestine amid raging conflicts</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344226-untitled-design-46.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-eu-must-not-take-us-china-side-on-taiwan-issue-after-beijing-visit-580767">Macron warns EU must not take US, China side on Taiwan issue after Beijing visit</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/04/343146-macron-xi-jinping.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

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;

<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">China simulates precision strikes against Taiwan on Day 2 of drills; US urges restraint</a>

<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" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/israel-hits-southern-syria-after-six-rockets-launched-at-golan-heights-explosions-heard-near-damascus-580568">Israeli fighter jets hit military compound in Syria in response to rocket strikes</a>

<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" />

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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-humans-bring-covid-19-to-wuhan-market-a-chinese-scientist-thinks-so-580741">Did humans bring Covid-19 to Wuhan market? A Chinese scientist claims so</a>

<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" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-jews-walk-through-al-aqsa-compound-as-muslims-offer-ramadan-prayers-580716">In pics | Jews walk through Al-Aqsa compound as Muslims offer Ramadan prayers</a>

<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" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-says-heatwave-will-take-over-several-parts-of-india-in-next-5-days-580682">IMD forecast says heatwave will take over several parts of India in coming five days</a>

<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" />

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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-indian-minister-nitin-gadkari-spells-out-plans-to-decongest-indias-capital-delhi-580656">WION exclusive: Indian minister Nitin Gadkari spells out plans to decongest capital Delhi</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344186-gadkai.png?imwidth=1920" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2023-100-win-club-csk-mi-rcb-and-two-others-feature-in-the-elite-list-577342">IPL 2023: 100-WIN CLUB! CSK, MI, RCB and two others feature in the elite list</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/30/342094-1-mi.jpg?imwidth=3840" />

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-taylor-swift-joe-alwyns-complete-relationship-timeline-580620">Taylor Swift, Joe Alwyn's complete relationship timeline: First date, couple outings and more</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/09/344141-untitled-design-2023-04-09t113210353.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

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.

<ul>
</ul>

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

Marseille&nbsp;building collapse:&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;

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;

<h2>Fatalities may be involved&nbsp;</h2>

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;

"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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-building-comes-crashing-down-in-indian-capital-no-casualties-so-far-569983">WATCH | Building comes crashing down in Indian capital, no casualties reported</a>

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."

France President Emmanuel Macron took to Twitter to share a message and said his thoughts were with the people affected.&nbsp;

"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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1644984795284250627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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;

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;

In 2018, eight people were killed in the city after two dilapidated buildings in the&nbsp;Noailles district caved in.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

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

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Chinese counterpart to persuade Russia to end the ongoing war in Ukraine as he held a crucial meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday (April 6). In response, Xi said that he also hoped that the two warring nations could hold peace negotiations as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Xi greeted Macron at the grand Great Hall of the People with an elaborate military parade and after that, the leaders went on to hold their talks and discussed trade ties and issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;

Both Macron and Xi advocated the urgency to pursue peace talks and also reaffirmed that they are opposed to using nuclear weapons in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Pointing towards China’s support for the United Nations Charter, which calls for respect of a country’s territorial integrity, and for nuclear agreements, Macron said, “I know I can count on you, under the two principles I just mentioned, to bring Russia to its senses and bring everyone back to the negotiating table.”

“We need to find a lasting peace. I believe that this is also an important issue for China, as much as it is for France and for Europe,” Macron told Xi. 
 
The Elysee Palace said that the talks were "frank and constructive", meanwhile Beijing said the discussions were "friendly" and "in-depth".&nbsp; 
 
Ahead of the meeting with Xi's, Macron met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the French president stressed the importance of dialogue between China and France "in these troubled times".

<h2>Ukraine takes centre stage</h2>

Ukraine emerged to be a headline point during the talks between Xi and Macron, and both leaders agreed on the need to focus on "peace talks". The French president said that Beijing can play a "major role" in finding a path to peace in the conflict and welcomed China's "willingness to commit to a resolution".&nbsp;

Macron's visit comes against the backdrop of Beijing's peace plan&nbsp;to end the ongoing fighting in Ukraine. China had floated a peace plan as a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation of the war.&nbsp;

Macron said he is "counting" on Xi to persuade the Russian president, however, it appears to be unlikely, especially after the Chinese president's recent visit to Moscow and meeting with Vladimir Putin. Putin told his Chinese counterpart that their countries shared many "common goals" and also said that the visit was "symbolic".&nbsp;

Also, Beijing is officially neutral and Xi has never condemned the Russian invasion and has never spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky since the war started last year in February. &nbsp; 
 
China is the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas, and this trade has propped up the Kremlin's revenue amid sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>No prospect of Chinese mediation</h2>

The Kremlin said it saw no "prospect" for China to mediate the Ukraine conflict and said it had "no other way" than to press on with its offensive.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Undoubtedly, China has a very effective and commanding potential for mediation. But the situation with Ukraine is complex, so far there are no prospects for a political settlement. At the moment, there are no other ways for us aside from the continuation of the special military operation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Chinese counterpart to persuade Russia to end the ongoing war in Ukraine as he held a crucial meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday (April 6).

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Chinese counterpart to persuade Russia to end the ongoing war in Ukraine as he held a crucial meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday (April 6). In response, Xi said that he also hoped that the two warring nations could hold peace negotiations as soon as possible. Xi greeted Macron at the grand Great Hall of the People with an elaborate military parade and after that, the leaders went on to hold their talks and discussed trade ties and issues of mutual interest. Both Macron and Xi advocated the urgency to pursue peace talks and also reaffirmed that they are opposed to using nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Pointing towards China’s support for the United Nations Charter, which calls for respect of a country’s territorial integrity, and for nuclear agreements, Macron said, “I know I can count on you, under the two principles I just mentioned, to bring Russia to its senses and bring everyone back to the negotiating table.” “We need to find a lasting peace. I believe that this is also an important issue for China, as much as it is for France and for Europe,” Macron told Xi. The Elysee Palace said that the talks were "frank and constructive", meanwhile Beijing said the discussions were "friendly" and "in-depth". Ahead of the meeting with Xi's, Macron met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the French president stressed the importance of dialogue between China and France "in these troubled times". Ukraine takes centre stage Ukraine emerged to be a headline point during the talks between Xi and Macron, and both leaders agreed on the need to focus on "peace talks". The French president said that Beijing can play a "major role" in finding a path to peace in the conflict and welcomed China's "willingness to commit to a resolution". Macron's visit comes against the backdrop of Beijing's peace plan to end the ongoing fighting in Ukraine. China had floated a peace plan as a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation of the war. Macron said he is "counting" on Xi to persuade the Russian president, however, it appears to be unlikely, especially after the Chinese president's recent visit to Moscow and meeting with Vladimir Putin. Putin told his Chinese counterpart that their countries shared many "common goals" and also said that the visit was "symbolic". Also, Beijing is officially neutral and Xi has never condemned the Russian invasion and has never spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky since the war started last year in February. China is the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas, and this trade has propped up the Kremlin's revenue amid sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine. No prospect of Chinese mediation The Kremlin said it saw no "prospect" for China to mediate the Ukraine conflict and said it had "no other way" than to press on with its offensive. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, "Undoubtedly, China has a very effective and commanding potential for mediation. But the situation with Ukraine is complex, so far there are no prospects for a political settlement. At the moment, there are no other ways for us aside from the continuation of the special military operation." (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 in China: French president wants Xi Jinping to ‘bring Russia to its senses’

French President Emmanuel Macron held a meeting with China's newly-appointed Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing. Macron is in China for a three-day trip with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a show of European unity in dealings with Beijing.

French President Macron meets Chinese Premier Li in Beijing

France President Emmanuel Macron met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing. The French President is on a three-day visit to China. He met the Chinese Premier Li Qiang and with the National Assembly chairperson Li Zhanshu at the Great Hall of the People, Beijing.

France's President Emmanuel Macron meets Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing | WION

French President Emmanuel Macron landed in China on shortly ahead of EU chief Ursula von der Leyen. The leaders will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping with the objective to repair ties with Beijing. They are also set to encourage Xi Jinping to press for peace in Ukraine.

Macron arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping; EU Chief to land soon

French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will land in China on Wednesday (April 5), in a rare and significant three-day state visit amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Macron and von der Leyen are also scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This will be von der Leyen's first trip since becoming European Commission president, while Macron last visited China in 2019.&nbsp;

The visit&nbsp;comes against the backdrop of Beijing's peace plans to end the ongoing fighting in Ukraine. China had floated a peace plan as a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation of the war, which has led to global crises, including food and fuel.&nbsp;

The Western leaders and Ukrainian allies will seek resetting ties with an important economic partner China amid an evident shift in the world order. Some reports claimed that Macron&nbsp;will visit China hoping to persuade Beijing to not support Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from attempting to forge closer ties with a crucial trade partner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-johnson-to-pay-89-billion-to-settle-lawsuits-over-cancer-causing-talc-579243">Johnson &amp; Johnson to pay $8.9 billion to settle lawsuits over 'cancer-causing' talc</a>&nbsp;

Xi recently visited Moscow and met with President Vladimir Putin. Putin told his Chinese counterpart that their countries shared many "common goals" and also said that the visit was "symbolic".&nbsp;

Russia and China presented a unified front against the West and both leaders&nbsp;called each other "dear friends" and hailed a "new era" in their nations' ties.&nbsp;

Noah Barkin, an analyst with Rhodium Group, told Reuter,&nbsp;"It's not the time to announce business deals or big new investments. It would essentially be a vote of confidence in the Chinese economy and send the message that France is not on board with the US approach."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gloomy economic outlook boosts economic crisis&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gloomy-economic-outlook-boosts-economic-crisis-579275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the White House said that on the eve of his visit, Macron discussed his trip to China during a phone call with United States President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

News agency AFP cited a French diplomatic source, who noted that the two leaders said they want China to help "accelerate" the search for a solution to the war.&nbsp;

The source said that the conversation showed the "common will of France and the United States to engage the Chinese to accelerate with us the end of the war in Ukraine and build a lasting peace".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will land in China on Wednesday (April 5), in a rare and significant three-day state visit amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will land in China on Wednesday (April 5), in a rare and significant three-day state visit amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Macron and von der Leyen are also scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This will be von der Leyen's first trip since becoming European Commission president, while Macron last visited China in 2019. The visit comes against the backdrop of Beijing's peace plans to end the ongoing fighting in Ukraine. China had floated a peace plan as a 12-point foreign ministry paper for a gradual de-escalation of the war, which has led to global crises, including food and fuel. The Western leaders and Ukrainian allies will seek resetting ties with an important economic partner China amid an evident shift in the world order. Some reports claimed that Macron will visit China hoping to persuade Beijing to not support Russia's invasion of Ukraine apart from attempting to forge closer ties with a crucial trade partner. ALSO READ | Johnson & Johnson to pay $8.9 billion to settle lawsuits over 'cancer-causing' talc Xi recently visited Moscow and met with President Vladimir Putin. Putin told his Chinese counterpart that their countries shared many "common goals" and also said that the visit was "symbolic". Russia and China presented a unified front against the West and both leaders called each other "dear friends" and hailed a "new era" in their nations' ties. Noah Barkin, an analyst with Rhodium Group, told Reuter, "It's not the time to announce business deals or big new investments. It would essentially be a vote of confidence in the Chinese economy and send the message that France is not on board with the US approach." WATCH | Gloomy economic outlook boosts economic crisis × Meanwhile, the White House said that on the eve of his visit, Macron discussed his trip to China during a phone call with United States President Joe Biden. News agency AFP cited a French diplomatic source, who noted that the two leaders said they want China to help "accelerate" the search for a solution to the war. The source said that the conversation showed the "common will of France and the United States to engage the Chinese to accelerate with us the end of the war in Ukraine and build a lasting peace". (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.

Russia-Ukraine war and trade ties on agenda as France's Emmanuel Macron begins China trip

Emmanuel Macron arrived in China on Wednesday for a three-day state visit in which he hopes to dissuade Xi Jinping from supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine while also developing European trade ties with Beijing. “China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other,” an official from the French president’s office said of the war in Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron on a 3-day China visit, on mission to help end Ukraine war

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian&nbsp;invasion of Ukraine.

"China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington.

The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.

Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China.

The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments.

In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China.

The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP.

He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit China on Wednesday (Apri 15). He appears to have a balancing act before him as he attempts to keep relations between the two countries smooth and at the same time, dissuade China from supporting Russian invasion of Ukraine. "China is the only country in the world capable of having an immediate and radical impact on the conflict, in one direction or the other," an official from Macron's office told reporters Friday on condition of anonymity. The official was quoted by AFP. The official reportedly added that Macron will look to stand firm towards Chinese President Xi Jinping all the while taking 'another path' from directly confrontational tone often heard from Washington. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. Macron's visit is likely to be representative of the European Union's stance towards the current political situation in the world. It was notable that European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen met Macron in Paris on Monday just days before Macron's visit to China. The French leader's aims include preserving and rebalancing China's trade ties with Europe as well as safeguarding French interests in the Asia-Pacific region -- where Paris sees itself as a player thanks to its overseas territories and military deployments. In a speech last week, von der Leyen cautioned Beijing against direct support for the war while ruling out the 27-member European Union "decoupling" from China. The Europeans won't hold Xi back from arming Russia by "saying nicely what he shouldn't do," said Antoine Bondaz of the Paris-based Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS). Bondaz was quoted by AFP. He predicted instead that the leaders would warn him off arms deliveries in public while dangling the threat of sanctions in their private talks. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

As Macron heads to China, balancing act over Ukraine awaits him

The ninth day of protests against the pension reforms in France saw over a million people take to the streets, with at least&nbsp;119,000 in Paris&nbsp;alone. It was a day of violent protests as a&nbsp;Bordeaux town hall was set on fire. It wasn't clear who was behind the blaze which was quickly put out.&nbsp;

President Emmanuel Macron's hugely controversial pension reform&nbsp;saw&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;clash with French security forces on Thursday.&nbsp;The reform calls for the retirement age to be increased from 62 to 64.

Watch |&nbsp;Protests rock France over raising of retirement age

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protests-rock-france-over-raising-of-retirement-age-575000/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As per Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, 149 police officers and dozens of protestors were injured in the Thursday clashes. In addition, 172 people were arrested across the country, 72 of them in Paris.

Darmanin alleged that "there are thugs, often from the far-left, who want to bring down the state and kill police officers."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-braces-for-ninth-nationwide-day-of-strikes-against-pension-reform-bill-574952">France braces for ninth day of nationwide strikes against pension reform bill</a>

Reportedly lighting fires&nbsp;throughout the city centre and engaging in a sort of cat-and-mouse game with the security forces, the rioting groups continued to clash with police in Paris late into the night.&nbsp;As per Darmanin, 140 fires were set alight in Paris.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rubbish-piles-up-in-paris-protests-over-pension-reforms-continue-across-france-574675">Rubbish piles up in Paris, protests over pension reforms continue across France</a>

In several other cities, including Nantes, and Lorient in the west, and Lille in the north, to subdue protestors, police had to fire tear gas. In Rennes,&nbsp;water cannons were put into use. Additionally, as per AFP, in the southwestern city of Bordeaux, the porch of the city hall was briefly set on fire.

As per the French interior ministry, around 1.089 million protesters took part in demonstrations across France. In Paris, the turnout stood at 119,000, which as per AFP is the highest for the capital since the movement started in January.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The ninth day of protests against the pension reforms in France saw over a million people take to the streets, with at least 119,000 in Paris alone. It was a day of violent protests as a Bordeaux town hall was set on fire.

The ninth day of protests against the pension reforms in France saw over a million people take to the streets, with at least 119,000 in Paris alone. It was a day of violent protests as a Bordeaux town hall was set on fire. It wasn't clear who was behind the blaze which was quickly put out. President Emmanuel Macron's hugely controversial pension reform saw protesters clash with French security forces on Thursday. The reform calls for the retirement age to be increased from 62 to 64. Watch | Protests rock France over raising of retirement age As per Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, 149 police officers and dozens of protestors were injured in the Thursday clashes. In addition, 172 people were arrested across the country, 72 of them in Paris. Darmanin alleged that "there are thugs, often from the far-left, who want to bring down the state and kill police officers." Also read | France braces for ninth day of nationwide strikes against pension reform bill Reportedly lighting fires throughout the city centre and engaging in a sort of cat-and-mouse game with the security forces, the rioting groups continued to clash with police in Paris late into the night. As per Darmanin, 140 fires were set alight in Paris. Also read | Rubbish piles up in Paris, protests over pension reforms continue across France In several other cities, including Nantes, and Lorient in the west, and Lille in the north, to subdue protestors, police had to fire tear gas. In Rennes, water cannons were put into use. Additionally, as per AFP, in the southwestern city of Bordeaux, the porch of the city hall was briefly set on fire. As per the French interior ministry, around 1.089 million protesters took part in demonstrations across France. In Paris, the turnout stood at 119,000, which as per AFP is the highest for the capital since the movement started in January. (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.

France pension reform protests turn violent, Bordeaux town hall set on fire

French President Emmanuel Macron's government on Monday narrowly survived two no-confidence motions in the parliament. The nation's 577 National Assembly rejected the motion brought by the centrist LIOT coalition by a very narrow margin. 278 MPs voted in favour of the tripartisan bill&nbsp;— nine less than the 287 needed for the motion to succeed.

A second no-confidence motion, tabled by the far-right National Rally (RN), also failed, gathering only 94 votes.

Watch |&nbsp;France: Protests continue over pension reforms, garbage collectors extend strike

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-protests-continue-over-pension-reforms-garbage-collectors-extend-strike-573476/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The result comes as a relief for Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne and President Macron. A successful no-confidence vote would have sunk the government and would have killed the deeply unpopular legislation which seeks to raise the retirement age by two years to 64.

However, the relief could prove to be short-lived. As per Reuters, unions and protestors have vowed to carry on strikes and protests which in recent days have rocked the European nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/resign-france-protests-escalate-as-govt-pushes-through-pension-change-without-vote-572931">'Resign': France protests escalate as govt&nbsp;pushes through pension change without vote</a>

Lawmakers from the hard left La France Insoumise (LFI, France Unbowed) were heard shouting "Resign!" at Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne. They also brandished placards that read: "We'll meet in the streets," reports Reuters.

The pension reform has severely affected President Emmanuel Macron's personal ratings, bringing them to their lowest levels since the height of the 2019 protests. A survey on Sunday showed that Macron's approval ratings have tanked to a low, with only 28 per cent of the respondents viewing him in a positive light.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-union-members-police-clash-over-emmanuel-macrons-controversial-pension-reform-plan-573214">French union members, police clash over Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms</a>

A new round of protests, as per AFP, has been called across France on Thursday. These protests are expected to affect France's public transport severely, once again bringing it to a standstill. Government insiders and observers have raised fears that France may once again be heading towards a bout of anti-government protests like the "Yellow Vest" ones that hit the nation from 2018 to 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French President Emmanuel Macron's government on Monday narrowly survived two no-confidence motions in the parliament. The nation's 577 National Assembly rejected the motion brought by the centrist LIOT coalition by a very narrow margin.

French President Emmanuel Macron's government on Monday narrowly survived two no-confidence motions in the parliament. The nation's 577 National Assembly rejected the motion brought by the centrist LIOT coalition by a very narrow margin. 278 MPs voted in favour of the tripartisan bill — nine less than the 287 needed for the motion to succeed. A second no-confidence motion, tabled by the far-right National Rally (RN), also failed, gathering only 94 votes. Watch | France: Protests continue over pension reforms, garbage collectors extend strike The result comes as a relief for Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne and President Macron. A successful no-confidence vote would have sunk the government and would have killed the deeply unpopular legislation which seeks to raise the retirement age by two years to 64. However, the relief could prove to be short-lived. As per Reuters, unions and protestors have vowed to carry on strikes and protests which in recent days have rocked the European nation. Also read | 'Resign': France protests escalate as govt pushes through pension change without vote Lawmakers from the hard left La France Insoumise (LFI, France Unbowed) were heard shouting "Resign!" at Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne. They also brandished placards that read: "We'll meet in the streets," reports Reuters. The pension reform has severely affected President Emmanuel Macron's personal ratings, bringing them to their lowest levels since the height of the 2019 protests. A survey on Sunday showed that Macron's approval ratings have tanked to a low, with only 28 per cent of the respondents viewing him in a positive light. Also read | French union members, police clash over Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms A new round of protests, as per AFP, has been called across France on Thursday. These protests are expected to affect France's public transport severely, once again bringing it to a standstill. Government insiders and observers have raised fears that France may once again be heading towards a bout of anti-government protests like the "Yellow Vest" ones that hit the nation from 2018 to 2019. (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.

'We'll meet in the streets': Macron's government narrowly survives no-confidence vote over pension reform

French President Emmanuel Macron's government faces several motions of no-confidence in the national assembly today after his government forced through a deeply unpopular pension reform bill. Scores of demonstrators have taken to the streets in various parts of the country with some union leaders even saying that they will continue to demonstrate even if the bill gets passed.

Has Macron gone too far pushing through pension reform?

French president Macron has passed the new pension reforms and increased the retirement age from 62 to 64. Opposition leaders have urged for a no-confidence motion against Macron. Will the French government empathise with its citizens? Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms

The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris.

"Macron, Resign!" calls reverberated on the streets on Friday — the second night of the agitation — as thousands of protesters took on the police at Paris' Place de la Concorde, near the Assemblee Nationale parliament building.

Images from Reuters TV showed cops using tear gas on the disorderly crowd who, in response, lit fires and some threw firecrackers at police.

Protests also took place on Friday in other French cities — notably Bordeaux, Toulon and Strasbourg. At least dozens of people were arrested during the unrest at Place de la Concorde.

"We won't give up," one demonstrator told AFP news agency. "There's still hope that the reform can be revoked."

Another protester told Reuters that pushing the legislation through without a vote was "a denial of democracy... a total denial of what has been happening in the streets for several weeks".

<h1>Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms</h1>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-france-passes-new-pension-reforms-573148/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For the past two days, France has been seething with unrest ever since Macron decided to push through the controversial reforms to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a parliamentary vote.

No-confidence motions have been filed against his government in response that will be debated early next week.

Leader of the National Rally MPs in parliament, Marine Le Pen, slammed Macron for hurrying through pension changes and called it "a total failure for the government".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-defence-minister-awards-pilots-involved-in-downing-of-us-drone-over-black-sea-573006">Russian defence minister honours pilots involved in downing of US drone</a>

The government believes that pension reforms are essential to ensure the system doesn’t go bust and prevent it from collapsing. However, union members disagree.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-parent-meta-launches-its-subscription-service-in-usa-check-out-the-cost-573153">Facebook parent Meta launches its subscription service in USA, check out cost</a>

The contrasting opinions on the pension reforms created a stand-off between the union members and the government and resulted in heated political debate and strikes for more than two months.

A broad alliance of France's main unions said they would continue their mobilisation to try and force a U-turn on the changes. Protests are planned for this weekend, with a new day of nationwide industrial action scheduled for Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris.

The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris. "Macron, Resign!" calls reverberated on the streets on Friday — the second night of the agitation — as thousands of protesters took on the police at Paris' Place de la Concorde, near the Assemblee Nationale parliament building. Images from Reuters TV showed cops using tear gas on the disorderly crowd who, in response, lit fires and some threw firecrackers at police. Protests also took place on Friday in other French cities — notably Bordeaux, Toulon and Strasbourg. At least dozens of people were arrested during the unrest at Place de la Concorde. "We won't give up," one demonstrator told AFP news agency. "There's still hope that the reform can be revoked." Another protester told Reuters that pushing the legislation through without a vote was "a denial of democracy... a total denial of what has been happening in the streets for several weeks". Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms For the past two days, France has been seething with unrest ever since Macron decided to push through the controversial reforms to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a parliamentary vote. No-confidence motions have been filed against his government in response that will be debated early next week. Leader of the National Rally MPs in parliament, Marine Le Pen, slammed Macron for hurrying through pension changes and called it "a total failure for the government". Also read | Russian defence minister honours pilots involved in downing of US drone The government believes that pension reforms are essential to ensure the system doesn’t go bust and prevent it from collapsing. However, union members disagree. Also read | Facebook parent Meta launches its subscription service in USA, check out cost The contrasting opinions on the pension reforms created a stand-off between the union members and the government and resulted in heated political debate and strikes for more than two months. A broad alliance of France's main unions said they would continue their mobilisation to try and force a U-turn on the changes. Protests are planned for this weekend, with a new day of nationwide industrial action scheduled for Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French union members, police clash over Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms

Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree. Speaking to the news agency AFP, the head of the Liot group Bertrand Pancher said, "The vote on this motion will allow us to get out on top of a deep political crisis."

A day back, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne used a special procedure to push the pensions bill through the National Assembly without a vote.&nbsp;

"Ladies and gentlemen, members of parliament, today, on the parliament bill, and due to the uncertainty hanging over a few votes, we can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate collapse, we can't take the risk of seeing the compromise built by the two assemblies dismissed. We cannot bet on the future of our pensions. This reform is necessary," Prime Minister Borne said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The pension overhaul raises France's retirement age by two years to 64, which the government says is essential to ensure the system does not go bust. Unions, and most French, however, disagree. The citizens are deeply attached to keeping the official retirement age at 62, which is among the lowest in OECD countries.

For weeks, protests have been going on to oppose the reform. The demonstrations took a violent turn on Thursday after cars were torched in Paris and other French cities.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;Toluna Harris Interactive poll for RTL radio showed that more than eight out of 10 people were unhappy with the government's decision to skip a vote in parliament, and 65 per cent wanted strikes and protests to continue.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree.

Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree. Speaking to the news agency AFP, the head of the Liot group Bertrand Pancher said, "The vote on this motion will allow us to get out on top of a deep political crisis." A day back, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne used a special procedure to push the pensions bill through the National Assembly without a vote. "Ladies and gentlemen, members of parliament, today, on the parliament bill, and due to the uncertainty hanging over a few votes, we can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate collapse, we can't take the risk of seeing the compromise built by the two assemblies dismissed. We cannot bet on the future of our pensions. This reform is necessary," Prime Minister Borne said on Thursday. The pension overhaul raises France's retirement age by two years to 64, which the government says is essential to ensure the system does not go bust. Unions, and most French, however, disagree. The citizens are deeply attached to keeping the official retirement age at 62, which is among the lowest in OECD countries. For weeks, protests have been going on to oppose the reform. The demonstrations took a violent turn on Thursday after cars were torched in Paris and other French cities. A Toluna Harris Interactive poll for RTL radio showed that more than eight out of 10 people were unhappy with the government's decision to skip a vote in parliament, and 65 per cent wanted strikes and protests to continue. (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.

France: Opposition lawmakers file no confidence motion over pension reforms

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament.

People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64. As protests escalated, tear gas was fired by the police as they tried to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing cobblestones.

Special constitutional powers were used by the French government to force through the pension reforms bill amid chaos in parliament as radical left MPs started singing La Marseillaise loudly to stop French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne from speaking.

A last-minute decision was taken by French President Emmanuel Macron to avoid a parliamentary vote and pass the legislation to increase the pension age from 62 to 64.

Minutes before the country's MPs were to cast vote in the lower house, Macron was busy conducting frantic meetings with senior political figures, and in minutes, he decided to use special powers and not take the risk of voting, in which he had chances of losing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-protests-govt-to-force-paris-rubbish-collectors-to-return-to-work-as-trash-stacks-up-572743">France protests: Govt to force Paris rubbish collectors to return to work as trash stacks up</a>

Macron invoked the constitution's article 49.3 which gives the government the power to bypass parliament. On the left, MPs shouted “Resign! Resign!” at Borne, and radical left party France Unbowed's members sang the national anthem loudly so that Borne is not able to speak and the session gets suspended.

Speaking at the parliament, Borne said that they will push the bill through because the government cannot afford to “gamble the future of our pensions”.

The bill was earlier adopted by the Senate on Thursday. However, since the right-wing opposition MPs present in the National Assembly were reluctant to support Macron, the government had a fair chance of facing defeat in the lower house.

"We can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate come to nothing," Borne said while announcing the move.

Far-right leader Marine Le Pen said, "It's a total failure for the government. From the beginning the government fooled itself into thinking it had a majority."

As per the polls, around two-thirds of citizens in France oppose the pension overhaul.

WATCH | French Upper House Senate passes Pension Bill

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-upper-house-senate-passes-pension-bill-572705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"When a president has no majority in the country, no majority in the National Assembly, he must withdraw his bill," said Socialist Party chief Olivier Faure.

Few opposition parties, including Le Pen's, are likely to call a no-confidence vote on Friday, however, the cabinet of Borne is likely to survive because of support from the right-wing Republicans party.

Immediately after the step, Unions called for mass strikes and protests for the next day, as they called the government's move "a complete denial of democracy".

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament. People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament. People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64. As protests escalated, tear gas was fired by the police as they tried to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing cobblestones. Special constitutional powers were used by the French government to force through the pension reforms bill amid chaos in parliament as radical left MPs started singing La Marseillaise loudly to stop French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne from speaking. A last-minute decision was taken by French President Emmanuel Macron to avoid a parliamentary vote and pass the legislation to increase the pension age from 62 to 64. Minutes before the country's MPs were to cast vote in the lower house, Macron was busy conducting frantic meetings with senior political figures, and in minutes, he decided to use special powers and not take the risk of voting, in which he had chances of losing. ALSO READ | France protests: Govt to force Paris rubbish collectors to return to work as trash stacks up Macron invoked the constitution's article 49.3 which gives the government the power to bypass parliament. On the left, MPs shouted “Resign! Resign!” at Borne, and radical left party France Unbowed's members sang the national anthem loudly so that Borne is not able to speak and the session gets suspended. Speaking at the parliament, Borne said that they will push the bill through because the government cannot afford to “gamble the future of our pensions”. The bill was earlier adopted by the Senate on Thursday. However, since the right-wing opposition MPs present in the National Assembly were reluctant to support Macron, the government had a fair chance of facing defeat in the lower house. "We can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate come to nothing," Borne said while announcing the move. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen said, "It's a total failure for the government. From the beginning the government fooled itself into thinking it had a majority." As per the polls, around two-thirds of citizens in France oppose the pension overhaul. WATCH | French Upper House Senate passes Pension Bill "When a president has no majority in the country, no majority in the National Assembly, he must withdraw his bill," said Socialist Party chief Olivier Faure. Few opposition parties, including Le Pen's, are likely to call a no-confidence vote on Friday, however, the cabinet of Borne is likely to survive because of support from the right-wing Republicans party. Immediately after the step, Unions called for mass strikes and protests for the next day, as they called the government's move "a complete denial of democracy". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Protests escalate as Macron overrides parliament to pass pension reform in France

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday won approval from the upper house Senate for his controversial pensions reform, including raising the country's retirement age by two years to 64.

Emmanuel Macron wins pension reform backing from French upper house

Paris, the city of romance, is turning into a garbage dump as tonnes of stinking garbage continue to pile up on the city's sidewalks as sanitation workers continue their strike for the ninth day on Tuesday.

The increasing amount of garbage has become a clear sign of the widespread anger among workers over a bill to increase the French retirement age by two years.

The bins are overflowing and the food rotting in some of the rubbish bags is making the city stink. Till Tuesday, more than 7,000 tonnes of garbage was piling up on the roads of the city.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-senate-approves-macrons-pension-reform-plan-despite-massive-protests-571078"> France: Senate approves Macron’s pension reform plan despite massive protests</a>

"It's dirty, it attracts rats and cockroaches," complained one Parisian on French radio. The workers have been on a strike over the proposal of the Emmanuel Macron government to increase the pension age from 62 to 64.

Apart from Paris, cities like Rennes, Le Havre and Nantes, Rennes have also been affected by the strike. The pension strikes were joined by the refuse collectors a week ago and the authorities of Paris said that half of the districts of the city, which fall under the council workers, have been badly hit by the action.

The strikers have blocked three waste treatment sites and a fourth remains partially closed. Paris council stated that in the 10 districts, which fall under private companies, the services have been running normally.

WATCH | Gravitas: After France, China proposes increasing retirement age

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-after-france-china-proposes-increasing-retirement-age-572058/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, according to a few reports, the activists have been trying to prevent garbage collection in those areas. “It’s a bit too much because it was even hard to navigate” some streets, said Nadiia Turkay, a 24-year-old British visitor.

She further stated that it was “upsetting, to be honest,” because on “beautiful streets ... you see all the rubbish and everything. The smell.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Paris, the city of romance, is turning into a garbage dump as tonnes of stinking garbage continue to pile up on the city's sidewalks as sanitation workers continue their strike for the ninth day on Tuesday.

Paris, the city of romance, is turning into a garbage dump as tonnes of stinking garbage continue to pile up on the city's sidewalks as sanitation workers continue their strike for the ninth day on Tuesday. The increasing amount of garbage has become a clear sign of the widespread anger among workers over a bill to increase the French retirement age by two years. The bins are overflowing and the food rotting in some of the rubbish bags is making the city stink. Till Tuesday, more than 7,000 tonnes of garbage was piling up on the roads of the city. ALSO READ | France: Senate approves Macron’s pension reform plan despite massive protests "It's dirty, it attracts rats and cockroaches," complained one Parisian on French radio. The workers have been on a strike over the proposal of the Emmanuel Macron government to increase the pension age from 62 to 64. Apart from Paris, cities like Rennes, Le Havre and Nantes, Rennes have also been affected by the strike. The pension strikes were joined by the refuse collectors a week ago and the authorities of Paris said that half of the districts of the city, which fall under the council workers, have been badly hit by the action. The strikers have blocked three waste treatment sites and a fourth remains partially closed. Paris council stated that in the 10 districts, which fall under private companies, the services have been running normally. WATCH | Gravitas: After France, China proposes increasing retirement age However, according to a few reports, the activists have been trying to prevent garbage collection in those areas. “It’s a bit too much because it was even hard to navigate” some streets, said Nadiia Turkay, a 24-year-old British visitor. She further stated that it was “upsetting, to be honest,” because on “beautiful streets ... you see all the rubbish and everything. The smell.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Romantic city Paris turns into a garbage dump as strikes continue

Despite raging protests across the country. The French senate has decided to adopt Macron's unpopular pension reform plan. There were 195 votes for and 112 votes against the bill in which a key point is to raise the age of retirement by two years from 62 to 64.

French senate passes pension reform bill amid raging protests

The French Senate late Saturday (March 11) approved President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform plan despite massive protests opposing the policy. In the upper house of Parliament, 195 members voted for the text while 112 voted against it.

The French Senate late Saturday (March 11) approved President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform plan despite massive protests opposing the policy. In the upper house of Parliament, 195 members voted for the text while 112 voted against it. Taking to Twitter, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said, "After hundreds of hours of discussions, the Senate adopted the pension reform plan. It is a key step to make reform happen that will guarantee the future of our pension system." Borne said that she was committed to ensuring the text would be definitively adopted in the coming days. With the Senate adopting the bill, it will be reviewed by a joint committee of lower and upper house lawmakers, probably on Wednesday, according to a report by the news agency Reuters. If the committee agrees on the text, a final vote in both chambers is likely to take place the next day. However, the outcome of the vote seems uncertain in the lower chamber where President Macron's party needs allies' votes for a majority. If the government fears it would not have enough votes in the lower house, it is still possible for it to push the text through without a parliamentary vote, via a so-called 49:3 procedure. Protests intensify On Saturday, around 368,000 protesters marched in various cities of France to oppose the pension reform. As with the previous demonstrations, Saturday's protest did not see any major scuffles with the police. According to government figures, 1.28 million took to the streets on Tuesday (March 7), the highest turnout since the beginning of the protests. More nationwide strikes and protests have been planned for Wednesday (March 15). The pension reform plan's headline measure is the hike in the minimum age retirement to 64 from 62, seen by many as unfair to people who started working young. The reform would also increase the number of years people have to make contributions to receive a full pension. Speaking to the news agency AFP on Saturday, retired train driver Claude Jeanvoine said that he was protesting for "my colleagues and for our young people." "People shouldn't let the government get away with this, this is about the future of their children and grandchildren," Jeanvoine, 63, demonstrating in Strasbourg said. The protesters also pointed out that women, especially mothers, were at a disadvantage under the new reform. "If I'd known this was coming, I wouldn't have stopped working to look after my kids when they were small," said Sophie Merle, a 50-year-old childcare provider in the southern city of Marseille. (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.

France: Senate approves Macron’s pension reform plan despite massive protests

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that a draft law will be placed forward by his government enshrining the right to abortion in the French constitution in the months ahead.

Macron said that he supports the inclusion of abortion rights in the Constitution and that the move would send a message of solidarity to women around the world.

The announcement was made by Macron on International Women's Day during a ceremony to honour Tunisian-born French feminist and lawyer Gisele Halimi who died at the age of 93 in 2020. Halimi was a staunch supporter of the right to abortion.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-five-pregnant-women-sue-the-state-of-texas-over-abortion-ban-569481">In a first, five pregnant women sue the state of Texas over abortion ban</a>

Macron said that his government would soon submit an amendment to the constitution in the parliament.

"This will enshrine the freedom of women to choose abortion, and be a solemn guarantee that nothing can ever limit or abolish this right because it will have become irreversible. The rights of women are always a fragile conquest," he said.

"I hope the strength of this message helps us change our constitution and enshrine in it the freedom of women to seek an abortion...so that nothing can hinder nor unravel what will be irreversible," Macron added.

This will "send a universal message of solidarity to all the women who today see this freedom crushed", the president said.

In November 2022, France's National Assembly voted in support of the constitutional change.

WATCH | WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-france-day-of-protests-against-pension-reforms-569607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This month, the plan was also backed by the French senators but the chamber, where conservatives enjoy a majority, modified the wording of the text to "women's freedom" to abort, from "women's right".

On Wednesday, Macron said that the progress achieved in parliamentary debates "will allow, that is my wish, to include in our basic law this freedom as part of a draft law that would revise our constitution and that will be prepared in the coming months".

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that a draft law will be placed forward by his government enshrining the right to abortion in the French constitution in the months ahead.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that a draft law will be placed forward by his government enshrining the right to abortion in the French constitution in the months ahead. Macron said that he supports the inclusion of abortion rights in the Constitution and that the move would send a message of solidarity to women around the world. The announcement was made by Macron on International Women's Day during a ceremony to honour Tunisian-born French feminist and lawyer Gisele Halimi who died at the age of 93 in 2020. Halimi was a staunch supporter of the right to abortion. ALSO READ | In a first, five pregnant women sue the state of Texas over abortion ban Macron said that his government would soon submit an amendment to the constitution in the parliament. "This will enshrine the freedom of women to choose abortion, and be a solemn guarantee that nothing can ever limit or abolish this right because it will have become irreversible. The rights of women are always a fragile conquest," he said. "I hope the strength of this message helps us change our constitution and enshrine in it the freedom of women to seek an abortion...so that nothing can hinder nor unravel what will be irreversible," Macron added. This will "send a universal message of solidarity to all the women who today see this freedom crushed", the president said. In November 2022, France's National Assembly voted in support of the constitutional change. WATCH | WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms This month, the plan was also backed by the French senators but the chamber, where conservatives enjoy a majority, modified the wording of the text to "women's freedom" to abort, from "women's right". On Wednesday, Macron said that the progress achieved in parliamentary debates "will allow, that is my wish, to include in our basic law this freedom as part of a draft law that would revise our constitution and that will be prepared in the coming months". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Macron says will put abortion rights in French constitution in 'coming months'

The French Senate on Thursday voted 201-115 to raise the retirement age by two years to 64 even as protests continued across the country. The Senate, dominated by the conservative Les Republicains party voted in favour of the motion, giving President Emmanuel Macron his first mini-victory in the ongoing saga.

The French Senate on Thursday voted 201-115 to raise the retirement age by two years to 64 even as protests continued across the country. The Senate, dominated by the conservative Les Republicains party voted in favour of the motion, giving President Emmanuel Macron his first mini-victory in the ongoing saga. Macron's government is facing a midnight Sunday deadline to finalise the legislation. The Senate on Thursday voted in favour of article 7 of the reform legislation while the remaining articles are expected be approved later this week. Afterwards, the proposal will be sent to a meditation committee comprising lawmakers from the Senate and the National Assembly. The passing of the bill comes a day after fuel deliveries from refineries across the country were blocked by striking workers. According to official figures, on the biggest day of demonstrations so far, 1.27 million people participated in the protest on January 31. Read more: France hit with new round of protests against pensions reform plan Why is the government extending the age limit? The 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. The French pensioners also receive 54.4 per cent of their last pay slip as pension on average. Comparatively, the average EU pension amount stands at 46.2 per cent. WATCH | WION Fineprint: French pension reforms face backlash In January, taking a stern approach, Macron said he will get the reform bill passed this year only. “This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” he had said in a televised address. Despite the resistance, the Macron government has remained steadfast that it will pass the legislation, having failed to do so on previous occasions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Mini-victory' for Macron as French Senate vote approves raising retirement age to 64

French President Emmanuel Macron's plans to push the retirement age to 64 faced remarkable resistance on March 7 after around 1.28 million people came on the streets to protest the move.

Police used tear gas in Paris, while reports in the French media cited numerous&nbsp;minor clashes in the western city of Nantes. However,&nbsp;more than 260 union-organised rallies across the country were mostly peaceful, the news agency AFP reported.

Only one in five regional and high-speed trains were running, and the Paris metro system was operating with limited capacity.

"The government has to take (resistance) into account when there are so many people in the streets, when they're having so much trouble explaining and passing their reform," CFDT union chief Laurent Berger was quoted as saying by the AFP.

President Macron has championed the retirement age reforms since coming to power in 2017. Macron views it as essential to cutting pension system deficits forecast for the coming decades.

<h2>French opposition calls for reversal of Macron's pension age decision</h2>

Macron's political opponents and union leaders sought to convince people&nbsp;that massive street protests could force the Macron&nbsp;government into a U-turn.

"On the one hand, there's (Macron's) will, on the other the will of the people," hard-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon told a demonstration in the Mediterranean port city of Marseille.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-protests-live-macrons-pension-reforms-brings-country-to-standstill-train-services-cancelled-569563">France protests: Macron's pension reforms lead&nbsp;to clashes between demonstrators and police in Paris</a>

"Who should have the last word? Of course, it should be the people," he added, calling for fresh elections or a referendum on the changes. Police were expecting 1.1 to 1.4 million people to protest&nbsp;with estimates from the interior minister and the unions expected later in the day.

<h2>France protests: Why change in retirement age?</h2>

The Macron&nbsp;government has asserted in the past that raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 means abolishing privileges enjoyed by employees in some sectors. It has also pointed out that rejigging&nbsp;the requirements for a full pension are required to balance the pension system.

Many of France's European neighbours have hiked the retirement age to 65 or above.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-speed-news-france-day-of-protests-against-pension-reforms-569607/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Its spending on pensions is the third highest among industrialised countries, at about 14.5 per cent of the GDP, according to data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

"If we want to keep this system going, we need to work longer," Macron said last month.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

French President Emmanuel Macron's plans to push the retirement age to 64 faced remarkable resistance on March 7 after around 1.28 million people came on the streets to protest the move.

French President Emmanuel Macron's plans to push the retirement age to 64 faced remarkable resistance on March 7 after around 1.28 million people came on the streets to protest the move. Police used tear gas in Paris, while reports in the French media cited numerous minor clashes in the western city of Nantes. However, more than 260 union-organised rallies across the country were mostly peaceful, the news agency AFP reported. Only one in five regional and high-speed trains were running, and the Paris metro system was operating with limited capacity. "The government has to take (resistance) into account when there are so many people in the streets, when they're having so much trouble explaining and passing their reform," CFDT union chief Laurent Berger was quoted as saying by the AFP. President Macron has championed the retirement age reforms since coming to power in 2017. Macron views it as essential to cutting pension system deficits forecast for the coming decades. French opposition calls for reversal of Macron's pension age decision Macron's political opponents and union leaders sought to convince people that massive street protests could force the Macron government into a U-turn. "On the one hand, there's (Macron's) will, on the other the will of the people," hard-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon told a demonstration in the Mediterranean port city of Marseille. ALSO READ | France protests: Macron's pension reforms lead to clashes between demonstrators and police in Paris "Who should have the last word? Of course, it should be the people," he added, calling for fresh elections or a referendum on the changes. Police were expecting 1.1 to 1.4 million people to protest with estimates from the interior minister and the unions expected later in the day. France protests: Why change in retirement age? The Macron government has asserted in the past that raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 means abolishing privileges enjoyed by employees in some sectors. It has also pointed out that rejigging the requirements for a full pension are required to balance the pension system. Many of France's European neighbours have hiked the retirement age to 65 or above. ALSO WATCH | WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms × Its spending on pensions is the third highest among industrialised countries, at about 14.5 per cent of the GDP, according to data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. "If we want to keep this system going, we need to work longer," Macron said last month. (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.

France protests: Around 1.28 million people demonstrate against Macron's pension reforms

French President Emmanuel Macron plans to visit China in early April in hopes of encouraging Beijing to pressure Russia into ending the war in Ukraine. Watch the video to know more.

French President Emmanuel Macron to visit China in April on mission to help end Ukraine war

emmanuel-macron

Emmanuel Macron, News on Emmanuel Macron, stories on Emmanuel Macron, articles on Emmanuel Macron, Emmanuel Macron stories at Wion, Emmanuel Macron news, Emmanuel Macron latest news

emmanuel macron