The package includes a mix of direct financial support, loan guarantees, extended unemployment benefits, and tax benefits to keep tourism companies afloat

France announces $19 Billion relief package for tourism industry

Women's rights groups protested Tuesday against French President Emmanuel Macron's appointment of an interior minister who has been accused of rape

Women's Rights Groups Protest New French Ministers

The French economy is pulling out of the slump induced by the coronavirus outbreak at least as fast as expected a month ago.

French economy bouncing back faster than expected

The head of the French cybersecurity agency ANSSI has said that there would not be a total ban on using equipment from Huawei in the rollout of the French 5G telecoms network, but that it was pushing French telcos to avoid switching to the Chinese company.

WION Dispatch: Huawei not totally banned in France

French museums and tourist attractions reopen and promote new normal

Algeria is waiting for an apology for France's colonial occupation of the North African country.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday expressed hope that Emmanuel Macron would build on recent conciliatory overtures.

A global reexamination of the legacy of colonialism has been unleashed by the May killing of unarmed African American George Floyd by a white police officer, which sparked mass protests around the world.

"We have already had half-apologies. The next step is needed... We await it," the president said in an interview with news channel France 24.

"I believe that with President Macron, we can go further in the appeasement process... he is a very honest man, who wants to improve the situation."

A brutal eight-year war had ended France's 132 years of colonial rule in Algeria.

Algeria on Friday received the skulls of 24 resistance fighters decapitated during the colonial period. They will be laid to rest in the martyrs' section of the capital's El Alia cemetery on Sunday -- the 58th anniversary of Algeria's independence -- according to media reports.

Tebboune said an apology from France would "make it possible to cool tensions and create a calmer atmosphere for economic and cultural relations", especially for the more than six million Algerians who live in France.

During his presidential election campaign, Macron had created a storm by calling France's colonisation of Algeria a "crime against humanity". In December 2019, he said that "colonialism was a grave mistake" and called for turning the page on the past.

 
&nbsp;

Algeria is waiting for an apology for France's colonial occupation of the North African country. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday expressed hope that Emmanuel Macron would build on recent conciliatory overtures.

Algeria is waiting for an apology for France's colonial occupation of the North African country. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Saturday expressed hope that Emmanuel Macron would build on recent conciliatory overtures. A global reexamination of the legacy of colonialism has been unleashed by the May killing of unarmed African American George Floyd by a white police officer, which sparked mass protests around the world. "We have already had half-apologies. The next step is needed... We await it," the president said in an interview with news channel France 24. "I believe that with President Macron, we can go further in the appeasement process... he is a very honest man, who wants to improve the situation." A brutal eight-year war had ended France's 132 years of colonial rule in Algeria. Algeria on Friday received the skulls of 24 resistance fighters decapitated during the colonial period. They will be laid to rest in the martyrs' section of the capital's El Alia cemetery on Sunday -- the 58th anniversary of Algeria's independence -- according to media reports. Tebboune said an apology from France would "make it possible to cool tensions and create a calmer atmosphere for economic and cultural relations", especially for the more than six million Algerians who live in France. During his presidential election campaign, Macron had created a storm by calling France's colonisation of Algeria a "crime against humanity". In December 2019, he said that "colonialism was a grave mistake" and called for turning the page on the past.

Algeria expects France to apologise for colonial past

President Emmanuel Macron named Jean Castex, a top civil servant and local mayor who orchestrated France's coronavirus lockdown exit strategy, as his new prime minister on Friday as he acted to reinvent his administration and win back voters.

Castex, 55, hails from the centre-right of French politics and served for two years as the second-highest ranking official in the Elysee Palace during Nicolas Sarkozy's presidency.

An Elysee official described Castex as a senior civil servant whose experience in local politics would help Macron connect with provincial France. Castex was a "social Gaullist", the official said in reference to the more interventionist, socially minded wing of France's centre-right.

The announcement followed the resignation of Edouard Philippe ahead of a widely anticipated overhaul of the government by Macron.

Macron is reshaping his government as France grapples with the deepest economic depression since World War Two, a sharp downturn that will shrink the economy by about 11% in 2020 and reverse hard-fought gains on unemployment.

Investors will be watching to see if Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, who has overseen reforms to liberalise the economy and spent big to keep companies like Air France and Renault afloat during the crisis, keeps his job.

"The return from summer holidays will be difficult, we must get ready," Macron told regional newspapers in an interview published late on Thursday.

Macron and Philippe dined together on Wednesday and met on Thursday. The Elysee source described Thursday's discussions as warm and friendly. Both men agreed on "the need for a new government to embody the next phase, a new path," the aide said.

FRESH START

Macron said last month he wanted to start afresh as France embarks on a delicate and costly recovery from its coronavirus slump. Then came his party's dire showing in nationwide municipal elections on June 28.

The local elections revealed surging support for the Green party and underlined Macron's troubles connecting with ordinary people. His La Republique en Marche party failed to win a single major city, depriving the president of a local power base ahead of 2022.

The most notable win was Philippe's success in his old redoubt of Le Havre and his resignation clears the way for him to become mayor of the northern port, from where he could emerge as a rival to Macron in two years time.

Cardboard boxes were delivered to the prime minister's offices minutes after the government stepped down.

Macron is taking a gamble by replacing Philippe, who is more popular then the president, political analysts say.

But keeping Philippe would have suggested that Macron was too weak to let go of his prime minister and that his party lacked the depth for a full cabinet overhaul.

President Emmanuel Macron named Jean Castex, a top civil servant and local mayor who orchestrated France's coronavirus lockdown exit strategy, as his new prime minister on Friday as he acted to reinvent his administration and win back voters.

President Emmanuel Macron named Jean Castex, a top civil servant and local mayor who orchestrated France's coronavirus lockdown exit strategy, as his new prime minister on Friday as he acted to reinvent his administration and win back voters. Castex, 55, hails from the centre-right of French politics and served for two years as the second-highest ranking official in the Elysee Palace during Nicolas Sarkozy's presidency. An Elysee official described Castex as a senior civil servant whose experience in local politics would help Macron connect with provincial France. Castex was a "social Gaullist", the official said in reference to the more interventionist, socially minded wing of France's centre-right. The announcement followed the resignation of Edouard Philippe ahead of a widely anticipated overhaul of the government by Macron. Macron is reshaping his government as France grapples with the deepest economic depression since World War Two, a sharp downturn that will shrink the economy by about 11% in 2020 and reverse hard-fought gains on unemployment. Investors will be watching to see if Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, who has overseen reforms to liberalise the economy and spent big to keep companies like Air France and Renault afloat during the crisis, keeps his job. "The return from summer holidays will be difficult, we must get ready," Macron told regional newspapers in an interview published late on Thursday. Macron and Philippe dined together on Wednesday and met on Thursday. The Elysee source described Thursday's discussions as warm and friendly. Both men agreed on "the need for a new government to embody the next phase, a new path," the aide said. FRESH START Macron said last month he wanted to start afresh as France embarks on a delicate and costly recovery from its coronavirus slump. Then came his party's dire showing in nationwide municipal elections on June 28. The local elections revealed surging support for the Green party and underlined Macron's troubles connecting with ordinary people. His La Republique en Marche party failed to win a single major city, depriving the president of a local power base ahead of 2022. The most notable win was Philippe's success in his old redoubt of Le Havre and his resignation clears the way for him to become mayor of the northern port, from where he could emerge as a rival to Macron in two years time. Cardboard boxes were delivered to the prime minister's offices minutes after the government stepped down. Macron is taking a gamble by replacing Philippe, who is more popular then the president, political analysts say. But keeping Philippe would have suggested that Macron was too weak to let go of his prime minister and that his party lacked the depth for a full cabinet overhaul.

France's Macron picks new prime minister to reinvent presidency

France said Wednesday it was pulling out of a NATO Mediterranean maritime security operation until it gets a response to its concerns over the behaviour of fellow member Turkey.

"We have decided to temporarily withdraw our assets from the operation Sea Guardian" until France's concerns are addressed, a French defence official, who asked not to be named, told reporters.&nbsp;

The decision follows an escalation in tensions with Turkey over the Libya conflict which has seen both sides exchange accusations with increasing bitterness in recent days.

Earlier this month, France denounced an "extremely aggressive" intervention by Turkish ships against a French navy vessel participating in the NATO mission in the Mediterranean, a claim Ankara dismissed as "groundless".

Ankara supports the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) in the Libya conflict against rebel strongman Khalifa Haftar.

France is suspected by analysts of backing Haftar alongside Egypt, Russia and the United Arab Emirates, but insists it is neutral in the conflict.

Paris accuses Ankara of shipping arms to Libya in defiance of a UN embargo as well sending in pro-Turkey Syrian militia fighters fresh from the conflict there.

"It does not seem to us healthy to maintain our assets in an operation supposed, among its various tasks, to control an embargo alongside allies who do not respect it", said the official in apparent reference to Turkey.

Paris demands in particular "that allies solemnly reaffirm their attachment and their commitment to the respect of the embargo" on weapons to Libya.&nbsp;

France also wants a better conflict-resolution mechanism within the military alliance, the official added.

Macron said last week that he believed the naval incident between France and Turkey was worrying proof of his belief that NATO is in the throes of "brain death".

According to NATO, the Sea Guardian operation was launched in November 2016 and is aimed at "carrying out maritime security capacity building, and providing support to maritime situational awareness and to maritime counter-terrorism".

France said Wednesday it was pulling out of a NATO Mediterranean maritime security operation until it gets a response to its concerns over the behaviour of fellow member Turkey.

France said Wednesday it was pulling out of a NATO Mediterranean maritime security operation until it gets a response to its concerns over the behaviour of fellow member Turkey. "We have decided to temporarily withdraw our assets from the operation Sea Guardian" until France's concerns are addressed, a French defence official, who asked not to be named, told reporters. The decision follows an escalation in tensions with Turkey over the Libya conflict which has seen both sides exchange accusations with increasing bitterness in recent days. Earlier this month, France denounced an "extremely aggressive" intervention by Turkish ships against a French navy vessel participating in the NATO mission in the Mediterranean, a claim Ankara dismissed as "groundless". Ankara supports the UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) in the Libya conflict against rebel strongman Khalifa Haftar. France is suspected by analysts of backing Haftar alongside Egypt, Russia and the United Arab Emirates, but insists it is neutral in the conflict. Paris accuses Ankara of shipping arms to Libya in defiance of a UN embargo as well sending in pro-Turkey Syrian militia fighters fresh from the conflict there. "It does not seem to us healthy to maintain our assets in an operation supposed, among its various tasks, to control an embargo alongside allies who do not respect it", said the official in apparent reference to Turkey. Paris demands in particular "that allies solemnly reaffirm their attachment and their commitment to the respect of the embargo" on weapons to Libya. France also wants a better conflict-resolution mechanism within the military alliance, the official added. Macron said last week that he believed the naval incident between France and Turkey was worrying proof of his belief that NATO is in the throes of "brain death". According to NATO, the Sea Guardian operation was launched in November 2016 and is aimed at "carrying out maritime security capacity building, and providing support to maritime situational awareness and to maritime counter-terrorism".

France pulls out of NATO Med operation over Turkey tensions

Healthcare professionals in France took to the streets Tuesday to demand increased wages and resources.

French healthcare workers protest for better wages

France's former Prime Minister Francois Fillon and his wife Penelope along with his former assistant Marc Joulaud have been found guilty of misappropriation of public funds, complicity and concealment as a part of "fake jobs" scandal by the Paris tribunal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-says-national-security-law-wont-undermine-autonomy-309637" hreflang="en">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy</a>

According to the judgement, Francois Fillon was found guilty of paying about hundreds of thousands of euros to his wife and children as well as his assistant for non-existing jobs.&nbsp;

The former French Prime Minister has been sentenced to five years in prison, three of them suspended, as well as a fine of 375,000 euros ($423,000) and a ten -year ban on running for elections.

Fillon's Welsh wife Penelope has been sentenced to three years of prison and a fine of 375,000 euros.&nbsp;

Francois Fillion served as the prime minister under President Nicolas Sarkozy from 2007 to 2012. In January 2017, Fillon was one of the favourites to become France's next leader but a scandal was brought up by French satirical newspaper Le Canard Enchainé. This scandal was known as "Penelopegate" which alleged that Fillon had paid his wife and children out of public funds to work as his assistants.

According to the report, &nbsp;his wife and two of his adult children earned nearly 1 million euros as parliamentary assistants for the alleged fake jobs.

Though Fillon rejected these claims and said it is not illegal and is 'error in judgement'.&nbsp;

Due to the scandal, Fillon's campaign was derailed paving the way for Emmanuel Macron to French Presidency.&nbsp;

France's former Prime Minister Francois Fillon and his wife Penelope along with his former assistant Marc Joulaud have been found guilty of misappropriation of public funds, complicity and concealment as a part of "fake jobs" scandal by the Paris tribunal.

France's former Prime Minister Francois Fillon and his wife Penelope along with his former assistant Marc Joulaud have been found guilty of misappropriation of public funds, complicity and concealment as a part of "fake jobs" scandal by the Paris tribunal. Also read: Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says national security law won't undermine autonomy According to the judgement, Francois Fillon was found guilty of paying about hundreds of thousands of euros to his wife and children as well as his assistant for non-existing jobs. The former French Prime Minister has been sentenced to five years in prison, three of them suspended, as well as a fine of 375,000 euros ($423,000) and a ten -year ban on running for elections. Fillon's Welsh wife Penelope has been sentenced to three years of prison and a fine of 375,000 euros. Francois Fillion served as the prime minister under President Nicolas Sarkozy from 2007 to 2012. In January 2017, Fillon was one of the favourites to become France's next leader but a scandal was brought up by French satirical newspaper Le Canard Enchainé. This scandal was known as "Penelopegate" which alleged that Fillon had paid his wife and children out of public funds to work as his assistants. According to the report, his wife and two of his adult children earned nearly 1 million euros as parliamentary assistants for the alleged fake jobs. Though Fillon rejected these claims and said it is not illegal and is 'error in judgement'. Due to the scandal, Fillon's campaign was derailed paving the way for Emmanuel Macron to French Presidency.

Former French Prime Minister Francois Fillon found guilty for 'Penelopegate scandal'

In an election marked by the coronavirus, many people stayed away from polling stations, leading to an historic level of abstention.

Macron's party faces major loss in France local elections

France President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party received a drubbing on Sunday in municipal elections, as the Greens celebrated victories in several big cities after a surge in support.

France President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party received a drubbing on Sunday in municipal elections, as the Greens celebrated victories in several big cities after a surge in support. Macron had hoped the elections would help anchor his young party in towns and cities across France, including Paris, ahead of an anticipated 2022 re-election bid. But aides had more recently been playing down expectations and the sweeping wins by the Greens, who in some cities joined forces with leftist allies, may compel Macron to reshuffle his government to win back disenfranchised left-wing voters. In a rare bright spot for Macron, his prime minister, Edouard Philippe, won his bid to become mayor of the northern port city of Le Havre. Although the French constitution allows Philippe to name someone to act as mayor while he remains prime minister, his win deepens questions over his job as premier. Exit polls showed the Greens winning in Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux and Strasbourg, building on the momentum created by their strong performance in France in last year's European Parliament elections. Yannick Jadot, a European Parliament lawmaker from the Europe Ecology - The Greens, hailed a historic victory. "It's an incredible green wave," he said. In Paris, the biggest prize of all, the incumbent Socialist mayor Anne Hidalgo celebrated victory after a shambolic campaign by Macron's camp. France's 35,000 mayors set policy on issues from urban planning to education and the environment. While local factors typically drive voter choices, they give the electorate an opportunity to support or punish a president mid-mandate. "We have a government that is completely disconnected from reality," said Naouel, a voter in Paris' 9th district who said she was backing the centre-right opposition candidate. In Perpignan, Marine Le Pen's far-right Rassemblement National (National Rally) claimed victory, the first time the protectionist, anti-EU party has taken control of a town with a population of more than 100,000 people. Reshuffle? In this second round of voting, turnout was low and people wore masks because of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The first round was held just days before Macron imposed one of Europe's strictest lockdowns in mid-March. Turnout was just 40.5%, interior ministry data showed. The weak performance of Macron's La Republique en Marche will prompt much soul-searching for the president, who in the run-up to the vote said he wanted to reinvent his presidency with two years left in his mandate. Early in his presidency, Macron's left-wing opponents derided him as a 'president of the rich' as he eased taxes on companies and relaxed worker protections as he enacted reforms to liberalise France's regulation-choked economy. The reforms were bearing fruit: growth was robust among euro zone peers and stubbornly high unemployment was falling. But the past three years have been mired in social unrest and the pandemic's impact is reversing some of Macron's hard-fought gains, as disillusion amongst the leftist faction of his party grows. The Green's stunning performance on Sunday may persuade Macron to put more emphasis on the environment in his policies if he seeks to shore up his support on the left. "Ecology is the area where Macron is perceived as having done nothing," said Frederic Dabi, director of pollster Ifop. "The French will want results on green issues." Macron will on Monday hold talks with his prime minister, presidency officials said. Asked about Philippe's future, a source close to Macron said: "What follows will be enshrined in continuity."

France's Macron takes drubbing in local elections, Greens surge

Amid ongoing border skirmish with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India is likely to receive&nbsp;around six fully-loaded Rafale fighter aircraft by July-end fitted with the long-range Meteor air to air missiles.

The Rafales along with the Meteor missiles which can hit targets at more than 150 km strike range will give an edge to the Indian Air Force over the Chinese Air Force.

"Depending upon the situation and the ongoing training of IAF pilots in France, we may get six Rafales by July-end. The aircraft will be arriving with their full package and will be made operational within few days itself," ANI report said quoting government sources.

The original plan was to get four Rafales including three twin-seater trainer versions for training the pilots here at Ambala Air Force station, which will be the first base of the Rafale fighter jets in India. The second base would be in Hashimara, West Bengal, sources added.

The number of aircraft set to arrive in India may be higher according to requirement and a decision will be taken keeping in mind the training requirements of the pilots already stationed in France, the sources noted.

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Air Force has worked hard to ensure that the ground infrastructure gets ready by the time the planes land here.

The IAF officials said the date of arrival of the planes would be decided by mid-July after taking multiple factors into account.

The first aircraft to be flown in is planned to be piloted by the Commanding Officer of the 17 Golden Arrows` squadron along with a French pilot, they said.

The aircraft on their way from France to India would be refuelled by a French Air Force tanker aircraft in the air before they make a stopover in the Middle East.

"From Middle East to India, there would be one mid-air refuelling done by the Indian IL-78 tanker before they land in India," sources said.

Sources said that the Rafales could have come directly from France to India but a 10-hour flight would be stressful for pilots sitting inside a small cockpit.

The first batch of seven Indian pilots has also finished their training at a French airbase while the second batch would be going to France as soon as the lockdown measures are relaxed in both the countries.

Post lockdown, India received the first consignment of equipment from France when a cargo plane landed in Delhi few weeks ago and more equipment would arrive in the near future.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Amid ongoing border skirmish with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India is likely to receive around six fully-loaded Rafale fighter aircraft by July-end fitted with the long-range Meteor air to air missiles.

Amid ongoing border skirmish with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India is likely to receive around six fully-loaded Rafale fighter aircraft by July-end fitted with the long-range Meteor air to air missiles. The Rafales along with the Meteor missiles which can hit targets at more than 150 km strike range will give an edge to the Indian Air Force over the Chinese Air Force. "Depending upon the situation and the ongoing training of IAF pilots in France, we may get six Rafales by July-end. The aircraft will be arriving with their full package and will be made operational within few days itself," ANI report said quoting government sources. The original plan was to get four Rafales including three twin-seater trainer versions for training the pilots here at Ambala Air Force station, which will be the first base of the Rafale fighter jets in India. The second base would be in Hashimara, West Bengal, sources added. The number of aircraft set to arrive in India may be higher according to requirement and a decision will be taken keeping in mind the training requirements of the pilots already stationed in France, the sources noted. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the Indian Air Force has worked hard to ensure that the ground infrastructure gets ready by the time the planes land here. The IAF officials said the date of arrival of the planes would be decided by mid-July after taking multiple factors into account. The first aircraft to be flown in is planned to be piloted by the Commanding Officer of the 17 Golden Arrows` squadron along with a French pilot, they said. The aircraft on their way from France to India would be refuelled by a French Air Force tanker aircraft in the air before they make a stopover in the Middle East. "From Middle East to India, there would be one mid-air refuelling done by the Indian IL-78 tanker before they land in India," sources said. Sources said that the Rafales could have come directly from France to India but a 10-hour flight would be stressful for pilots sitting inside a small cockpit. The first batch of seven Indian pilots has also finished their training at a French airbase while the second batch would be going to France as soon as the lockdown measures are relaxed in both the countries. Post lockdown, India received the first consignment of equipment from France when a cargo plane landed in Delhi few weeks ago and more equipment would arrive in the near future. (With inputs from ANI)

India likely to get six 'fully-loaded' Rafales before July end

Iran told the U.N.’s aviation agency that it would send black boxes from a downed Ukrainian jetliner to Paris for analysis, once countries involved in the investigation agree.

The other countries involved are Ukraine, Canada and the United States. Canada previously pressed Iran to send the black boxes to France for analysis.

“An Iranian aviation team will transfer the black boxes to France and data extraction will begin on July 20, if nothing happens out of the ordinary,” Mohsen Baharvand, the deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs, was quoted as saying by the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency.

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Iran has advised today’s ICAO Council Session that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PS752?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PS752</a> black boxes are to be read-out in France on 20 July, employing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> protocols while assuring the participation of representatives from all countries involved. ICAO advisors will continue supporting all parties.
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After initially denying any responsibility for the crash, Iranian officials were forced to admit that an IRGC air defence battery unintentionally shot down the airliner minutes after departing&nbsp;Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport amid heightened tensions with US&nbsp;forces in neighbouring Iraq.

Iran has requested help with repairing and downloading data from the Cockpit Voice Recorder and the Flight Data Recorder of the Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, the Civil Aviation Safety Investigation Authority tweeted.

However, Iran has refused to hand over the flight recorders from the Ukraine International Airlines flight, which was shot down on January&nbsp;8 near Tehran by an Iranian surface-to-air missile, killing 176 people including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents.

Iran told the U.N.’s aviation agency that it would send black boxes from a downed Ukrainian jetliner to Paris for analysis, once countries involved in the investigation agree.

Iran told the U.N.’s aviation agency that it would send black boxes from a downed Ukrainian jetliner to Paris for analysis, once countries involved in the investigation agree. The other countries involved are Ukraine, Canada and the United States. Canada previously pressed Iran to send the black boxes to France for analysis. “An Iranian aviation team will transfer the black boxes to France and data extraction will begin on July 20, if nothing happens out of the ordinary,” Mohsen Baharvand, the deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs, was quoted as saying by the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency. Iran has advised today’s ICAO Council Session that #PS752 black boxes are to be read-out in France on 20 July, employing #COVID19 protocols while assuring the participation of representatives from all countries involved. ICAO advisors will continue supporting all parties. — ICAO (@icao) June 26, 2020 × After initially denying any responsibility for the crash, Iranian officials were forced to admit that an IRGC air defence battery unintentionally shot down the airliner minutes after departing Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport amid heightened tensions with US forces in neighbouring Iraq. Iran has requested help with repairing and downloading data from the Cockpit Voice Recorder and the Flight Data Recorder of the Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, the Civil Aviation Safety Investigation Authority tweeted. However, Iran has refused to hand over the flight recorders from the Ukraine International Airlines flight, which was shot down on January 8 near Tehran by an Iranian surface-to-air missile, killing 176 people including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents.

Iran to hand over black boxes of downed Ukraine jet to France for analysis

Wearing face masks, French voters return to delayed municipal elections

Dead dolphins are washing up on France's Atlantic coast in such high numbers that local populations of the mammals are at risk, marine biologists say.

The overwhelming majority drowned in the nets of fishing trawlers. Post mortems often show fractures, broken tails and flippers and deep incisions cut into their skin by the nets. Some have been mutilated as fishermen release their bodies.

"We're reaching mortality rates that threaten the survival of the dolphin population in the Bay of Gascony," said Morgane Perri, a marine biologist in Brittany, western France.

"For the last three years, we've seen more than 1,000 deaths (dolphins and porpoises) over a four-month period each winter."

Common dolphins are the hardest hit. Scientists believe those found on beaches represent a small fraction of the total number dying in fishing nets off the coast of France. The real number is likely to be five to 10 times higher, they estimate.

Dolphins have for decades been caught in fishing nets in the Atlantic waters off western Europe. But marine scientists say the spike in numbers in recent years is a result of shifting fishing practices, and in particular the fishing vessels that trawl in pairs for sea bass.

French law requires fishermen to declare all cetacean by-catch. But Perri said this rarely happened.

The National Committee of Maritime Fishermen did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The slow reproduction rates of dolphins, which are mammals and need to surface in order to breathe, means they are particularly vulnerable to sharp falls in numbers, according to the Pelagis Observatory in La Rochelle.

Population models show numbers are stable, said Helene Peltier, a researcher at the observatory. "But once you see the decline, it's too late."

Activist group Sea Shepherd wants trawlers to be banned from fishing in sea bass spawning grounds and better monitoring of fisheries. Acoustic 'pingers' designed to repel dolphins are also being trialled on some fishing boats.

"There is no single miracle solution," Peltier said.

Dead dolphins are washing up on France's Atlantic coast in such high numbers that local populations of the mammals are at risk, marine biologists say. The overwhelming majority drowned in the nets of fishing trawlers.

Dead dolphins are washing up on France's Atlantic coast in such high numbers that local populations of the mammals are at risk, marine biologists say. The overwhelming majority drowned in the nets of fishing trawlers. Post mortems often show fractures, broken tails and flippers and deep incisions cut into their skin by the nets. Some have been mutilated as fishermen release their bodies. "We're reaching mortality rates that threaten the survival of the dolphin population in the Bay of Gascony," said Morgane Perri, a marine biologist in Brittany, western France. "For the last three years, we've seen more than 1,000 deaths (dolphins and porpoises) over a four-month period each winter." Common dolphins are the hardest hit. Scientists believe those found on beaches represent a small fraction of the total number dying in fishing nets off the coast of France. The real number is likely to be five to 10 times higher, they estimate. Dolphins have for decades been caught in fishing nets in the Atlantic waters off western Europe. But marine scientists say the spike in numbers in recent years is a result of shifting fishing practices, and in particular the fishing vessels that trawl in pairs for sea bass. French law requires fishermen to declare all cetacean by-catch. But Perri said this rarely happened. The National Committee of Maritime Fishermen did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The slow reproduction rates of dolphins, which are mammals and need to surface in order to breathe, means they are particularly vulnerable to sharp falls in numbers, according to the Pelagis Observatory in La Rochelle. Population models show numbers are stable, said Helene Peltier, a researcher at the observatory. "But once you see the decline, it's too late." Activist group Sea Shepherd wants trawlers to be banned from fishing in sea bass spawning grounds and better monitoring of fisheries. Acoustic 'pingers' designed to repel dolphins are also being trialled on some fishing boats. "There is no single miracle solution," Peltier said.

Dead dolphins wash up on France's shores in record numbers

Dead dolphins are washing up on France's Atlantic coast in such high numbers that local populations of the mammals are at risk, marine biologists say.

Hundreds of dolphins wash up on French Atlantic coast

Six people have been arrested in France over the theft of an artwork by street artist Banksy commemorating the victims of the 2015 Paris attacks that was stolen from the Bataclan concert hall, sources said Saturday.

The suspects were arrested across France this week after the artwork, an image of a girl in mourning painted on one of the Paris venue's emergency doors, was found in Italy earlier in the month, judicial and police sources told AFP.

Two were charged with theft while the other four were charged with concealing theft, the sources added. All six were placed in pre-trial detention.

The door with the artwork was cut out and taken in January last year at the Bataclan, where Islamic State gunmen massacred 90 people in 2015.

French and Italian police said on June 10 this year that they found the work in an abandoned farmhouse in Italy's central east Abruzzo region.

One of the French policeman who intervened in the 2015 Bataclan attack was present when the door was found, and was overcome with emotion, according to the French crime unit.

Works by Banksy, known for their distinctive style, irreverent humour&nbsp;and thought-provoking themes, have been found on walls, buildings and bridges from the West Bank to post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans.

At auction, they have sold for more than $1 million.

Six people have been arrested in France over the theft of an artwork by street artist Banksy commemorating the victims of the 2015 Paris attacks that was stolen from the Bataclan concert hall, sources said Saturday.

Six people have been arrested in France over the theft of an artwork by street artist Banksy commemorating the victims of the 2015 Paris attacks that was stolen from the Bataclan concert hall, sources said Saturday. The suspects were arrested across France this week after the artwork, an image of a girl in mourning painted on one of the Paris venue's emergency doors, was found in Italy earlier in the month, judicial and police sources told AFP. Two were charged with theft while the other four were charged with concealing theft, the sources added. All six were placed in pre-trial detention. The door with the artwork was cut out and taken in January last year at the Bataclan, where Islamic State gunmen massacred 90 people in 2015. French and Italian police said on June 10 this year that they found the work in an abandoned farmhouse in Italy's central east Abruzzo region. One of the French policeman who intervened in the 2015 Bataclan attack was present when the door was found, and was overcome with emotion, according to the French crime unit. Works by Banksy, known for their distinctive style, irreverent humour and thought-provoking themes, have been found on walls, buildings and bridges from the West Bank to post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans. At auction, they have sold for more than $1 million.

France arrests six over Banksy artwork stolen from Bataclan

France’s Louvre Museum is getting ready to reopen almost four months after COVID-19 forced its closure. With many foreign tourists not expected back for months, and strict social distancing measures in place, the post-outbreak Louvre that opens on July 6 is likely to be a more serene experience than usual.

COVID-19 Pandemic: World's most visited museum Louvre to reopen

Millions of French children returned to school on June 22 after more than three months at home due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Watch report.

Children return to school as France eases COVID-19 restrictions

Snout first, Gloria the baby hippo took her first tentative steps into the deep pool in her enclosure at France's Beauval zoo on Monday (June 22).

Gloria the baby hippo takes first dip in the deep end at French zoo

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-threatens-to-target-haftars-forces-in-libya-if-attacks-persist-297839">Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist</a>

"France has a major responsibility for Libya being dragged into chaos by supporting illegal structures there for years, and therefore, it is actually France which is playing a dangerous game in Libya," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/libya-twist-in-ongoing-civil-war-egyptian-prez-warns-tripoli-based-gna-307557/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a sign of mounting tensions between two NATO allies, French President Emmanuel Macron accused Ankara on Monday of playing a "dangerous game" in the north African country that can no longer be tolerated.

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.

Turkey on Tuesday fired back at France, accusing Paris of "playing a dangerous game in Libya" by supporting strongman Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognised government in Tripoli. Also read: Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist "France has a major responsibility for Libya being dragged into chaos by supporting illegal structures there for years, and therefore, it is actually France which is playing a dangerous game in Libya," the foreign ministry said in a statement. In a sign of mounting tensions between two NATO allies, French President Emmanuel Macron accused Ankara on Monday of playing a "dangerous game" in the north African country that can no longer be tolerated.

France, not Turkey, playing 'dangerous game' in Libya: Ankara

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. 
 
Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full.&nbsp; 
 
French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended.&nbsp; 
 
"The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/protesters-douse-health-ministry-building-in-france-with-red-paint-307275" hreflang="en">Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint</a> 
 
The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates.&nbsp; 
 
Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!"&nbsp;

Mixed response from parents 
Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. 
 
"Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany.&nbsp; 
 
But not all parents are pleased.&nbsp; 
 
A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/macron-says-france-has-scored-its-first-victory-against-virus-as-country-lifts-curbs-305881" hreflang="en">Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs</a> 
 
And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision".&nbsp; 
 
"Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. 
 
In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed.&nbsp; 
 
From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds.&nbsp; 
 
Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home.

French schools opened their doors to greet pupils on Monday for what the government says is two weeks of obligatory lessons before the summer break, although many parents may yet defy the decision and keep their children at home. Schools began reopening when the government eased its lockdown rules six weeks ago, but parents were allowed to keep their children at home and a strict health protocol meant that classes could only be half full. French President Emmanuel Macron announced a full and "obligatory" return to school for primary and middle schools in an address to the nation earlier this month and the restrictions have now been amended. "The objective is for 100% of primary school pupils and middle school students to return," Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer told France Inter radio on Monday, although the government has implied that no sanctions will be taken against rebellious parents. Also read: Protesters douse health ministry building in France with red paint The summer holidays begin in two weeks, but the government has argued that it is essential that children see their teachers and classmates again to end the year properly before breaking up for the two-month long break. "I'm so pleased to be going back to school!" said 8-year-old Adele in front of a Parisian school, after her first morning with all her classmates. Not far from Adele, 7-year-old Annika was also delighted. "I'm so happy to see my friends and teachers again. Learning at home isn't the same thing, school is better!" Mixed response from parents Parents dropping their children off were thrilled too. "Oh, the joy! I've been waiting for this for a long time. My daughter is happy to go back and see her friends, and my wife can go back to work," said Maxime Aubin, father of two who lives in the northwest city of Rennes, in Brittany. But not all parents are pleased. A poll on Thursday by Odoxa-Dentsu Consulting for France Info and Le Figaro showed that only 45 per cent of parents were going to send their children back to school. Also read: Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs And 56 per cent think the obligatory return announced by Macron is "a bad decision". "Many families won't take the risk of sending their children back to middle school," said Philippe Vincent from the majority union SNPDEN for headteachers. In some middle schools, he pointed out, schoolbooks had already been returned and end-of-the-year teacher-student sessions completed. From Monday, children from the same class can play together again, while ball games make their comeback on playgrounds. Other precautionary measures will however remain -- thorough and frequent handwashing is obligatory and playing equipment must be disinfected daily or left in isolation for 24 hours.

French pupils return for 'obligatory' school after virus closure

The government said Monday it had brought home 10 French children of jihadist fighters overnight from a refugee camp in Syria, the latest in a piecemeal repatriation process since the Islamic State group was ousted from its Syrian base in March 2019.

"France has carried out the return of ten French minors, orphans or humanitarian cases, who were in camps in northeast Syria," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

"These children have been turned over to French judicial authorities, are receiving medical treatment and have been taken in by social services," it said.

The ministry did not provide details on their parents.

France has now repatriated a total of 28 children from war-torn Syria, where hundreds of its citizens went to fight along IS insurgents as they tried to establish a so-called "caliphate."&nbsp;

Rights groups have urged the government to quickly bring home at least the minors who were brought by their parents to the conflict zone or born there during the years of fighting.

But many of the estimated 300 French children being held in the Kurdish-run camps in Syria are with their mothers of fathers, and France has insisted that French nationals must face local justice.

Critics say this stance exposes the families of French fighters to inhumane treatment and psychological trauma.

The foreign ministry said Monday it had "thanked" Kurdish leaders for their cooperation in an operation carried out "because of the particularly vulnerable situation these children were in, and with the authorisations provided by local authorities".

Some 12,000 foreigners -- 4,000 women and 8,000 children -- are being held at three camps for displaced persons in northeast Syria, most at Al-Hol, where aid groups say they suffer malnutrition and disease.

Kurdish officials have called on countries to take back their detained citizens, warning that they do not have the resources to guard prisoners indefinitely.

According to the CAT terrorism analysis centre, 13 French jihadists including Hayat Boumedienne, the partner of one of the three men who carried out deadly terror attacks in Paris in January 2015, have escaped custody in Syria.

The government said Monday it had brought home 10 French children of jihadist fighters overnight from a refugee camp in Syria, the latest in a piecemeal repatriation process since the Islamic State group was ousted from its Syrian base in March 2019.

The government said Monday it had brought home 10 French children of jihadist fighters overnight from a refugee camp in Syria, the latest in a piecemeal repatriation process since the Islamic State group was ousted from its Syrian base in March 2019. "France has carried out the return of ten French minors, orphans or humanitarian cases, who were in camps in northeast Syria," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "These children have been turned over to French judicial authorities, are receiving medical treatment and have been taken in by social services," it said. The ministry did not provide details on their parents. France has now repatriated a total of 28 children from war-torn Syria, where hundreds of its citizens went to fight along IS insurgents as they tried to establish a so-called "caliphate." Rights groups have urged the government to quickly bring home at least the minors who were brought by their parents to the conflict zone or born there during the years of fighting. But many of the estimated 300 French children being held in the Kurdish-run camps in Syria are with their mothers of fathers, and France has insisted that French nationals must face local justice. Critics say this stance exposes the families of French fighters to inhumane treatment and psychological trauma. The foreign ministry said Monday it had "thanked" Kurdish leaders for their cooperation in an operation carried out "because of the particularly vulnerable situation these children were in, and with the authorisations provided by local authorities". Some 12,000 foreigners -- 4,000 women and 8,000 children -- are being held at three camps for displaced persons in northeast Syria, most at Al-Hol, where aid groups say they suffer malnutrition and disease. Kurdish officials have called on countries to take back their detained citizens, warning that they do not have the resources to guard prisoners indefinitely. According to the CAT terrorism analysis centre, 13 French jihadists including Hayat Boumedienne, the partner of one of the three men who carried out deadly terror attacks in Paris in January 2015, have escaped custody in Syria.

France brings home 10 jihadists' children from Syria

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

"Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-highest-single-day-spike-in-coronavirus-cases-death-toll-crosses-12500-306984">India records highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases; death toll crosses 12,500</a>

Designed and developed by the World Bank in collaboration with the Indian authorities, the assistance seeks to optimize and scale up the Indian government's existing social protection programmes, it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/look-forward-to-working-with-india-for-a-more-stable-world-us-on-unsc-election-306780">Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election</a>

"Focusing on boosting the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna, the programme will provide further benefits to low-income families to ensure that the health, social and economic shocks arising from COVID-19 do not endanger people's well-being or their contribution to the country's economic growth in the long run," it said.

The statement also said that the programme is also intended to protect frontline workers battling the pandemic, including healthcare, sanitation, and security personnel by providing them with health insurance.&nbsp;

Social assistance programmes will also be put in place for migrant workers and low-income urban households that may be unable to get aid under PMGKY, it added.

Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, who was present at the sign of the agreement, said: "President Macron and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi have been working together so that the excellent relations between our two countries translate into concrete cooperation in the fight against COVID-19."

"The Indian government's rollout of the PMGKY is a testament to its commitment to ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society are protected, and it is this commitment that France, through the French Development Agency and its partners, is determined to support."

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis. "Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI.

France on Thursday signed a credit financing agreement with India worth 200 million euros to help New Delhi in tackling the coronavirus crisis. "Through this loan, France will work with India to increase the state and central governments'' capacities to support the country''s most vulnerable people in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis," the statement said, reported PTI. Also read | India records highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases; death toll crosses 12,500 Designed and developed by the World Bank in collaboration with the Indian authorities, the assistance seeks to optimize and scale up the Indian government's existing social protection programmes, it said. Also read | Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election "Focusing on boosting the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna, the programme will provide further benefits to low-income families to ensure that the health, social and economic shocks arising from COVID-19 do not endanger people's well-being or their contribution to the country's economic growth in the long run," it said. The statement also said that the programme is also intended to protect frontline workers battling the pandemic, including healthcare, sanitation, and security personnel by providing them with health insurance. Social assistance programmes will also be put in place for migrant workers and low-income urban households that may be unable to get aid under PMGKY, it added. Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France to India, who was present at the sign of the agreement, said: "President Macron and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi have been working together so that the excellent relations between our two countries translate into concrete cooperation in the fight against COVID-19." "The Indian government's rollout of the PMGKY is a testament to its commitment to ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society are protected, and it is this commitment that France, through the French Development Agency and its partners, is determined to support."

France provides 200 million euros assistance to India for tackling COVID-19 crisis

Electric bikes are starting to fill bike lanes in Paris as many commuters wary of taking the metro in the post-coronavirus lockdown period have resorted to two-wheel transport.

Paris sees spike in e-bike sales as virus lockdown winds down

The French city of Dijon just 300 km from the capital Paris looks like a war zone as of now. According to reports the waring sites in the French town include heavily armed Chechen refugees on the side and the other side is a drug gang. Watch report.

French city of Dijon turns into war zone: Armed Chechens conduct raids

Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands of doctors and paramedics took to the streets on Tuesday, demanding better working conditions. Soon, the protest turned violent when hundreds of black-clad demonstrators started attacking French riot police. Riot police had to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd.

According to the police, fringe groups had hijacked the protest and anarchist protesters known as "black bloc" were attacking the officers because of which the agitation turned violent. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/french-health-care-workers-protest-against-poor-services-301759#better-working-conditions-demanded-301742">In pics: French health care workers protest against poor services</a>

The police headquarters in Paris tweeted, "Violent groups are trying to escalate tensions at the peaceful demonstration held by healthcare workers."

Police have arrested at least 16 protests so far.

The health care workers' movement began last year, but had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak. The workers say the coronavirus crisis has further exposed the cracks within the healthcare system.

They expressed their frustration with signs that read, "Applause during the COVID, what now?!" and "You count your euros, we count our dead." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-like-pandemics-are-a-direct-consequence-of-natural-exploitation-306526">Also Read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation</a>

A 25-year-old nurse, Agathe Schlesser, said, "For a nurse that comes from the province (outside Paris), we're looking for stability in Paris, while it's currently impossible. we're seeing a gap in posts that are not renewed, people leave and we realise that in our healthcare service, we're lacking 18 nurses.''

The French government has promised a reform of the healthcare system, with massive investment and greater appreciation, but labour unions in support of health workers say the government response is insufficient.

"We expect salary increases and the recognition of qualifications. We want more beds, the hiring of more personnel, the re-opening of closed hospitals, and of course, for them not to think that the money we're putting into hospitals is a debt. on the contrary, it's an investment, and so we should stop talking about debt when it comes to public hospitals," said the leader of CGT Labour Union, Philippe Martinez. 
&nbsp;

Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Low wages, poor and inadequate resources, understaffing, poor infrastructure, hollow promises and so on - the list goes on for French health care workers. The conditions have been made worse due to the coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of doctors and paramedics took to the streets on Tuesday, demanding better working conditions. Soon, the protest turned violent when hundreds of black-clad demonstrators started attacking French riot police. Riot police had to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd. According to the police, fringe groups had hijacked the protest and anarchist protesters known as "black bloc" were attacking the officers because of which the agitation turned violent. In pics: French health care workers protest against poor services The police headquarters in Paris tweeted, "Violent groups are trying to escalate tensions at the peaceful demonstration held by healthcare workers." Police have arrested at least 16 protests so far. The health care workers' movement began last year, but had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus outbreak. The workers say the coronavirus crisis has further exposed the cracks within the healthcare system. They expressed their frustration with signs that read, "Applause during the COVID, what now?!" and "You count your euros, we count our dead." Also Read: Coronavirus-like pandemics are a direct consequence of natural exploitation A 25-year-old nurse, Agathe Schlesser, said, "For a nurse that comes from the province (outside Paris), we're looking for stability in Paris, while it's currently impossible. we're seeing a gap in posts that are not renewed, people leave and we realise that in our healthcare service, we're lacking 18 nurses.'' The French government has promised a reform of the healthcare system, with massive investment and greater appreciation, but labour unions in support of health workers say the government response is insufficient. "We expect salary increases and the recognition of qualifications. We want more beds, the hiring of more personnel, the re-opening of closed hospitals, and of course, for them not to think that the money we're putting into hospitals is a debt. on the contrary, it's an investment, and so we should stop talking about debt when it comes to public hospitals," said the leader of CGT Labour Union, Philippe Martinez.

Protest by French health care workers turns violent

The exiled uncle of Syria President Bashar al-Assad -- Rifaat al-Assad -- has been found guilty of acquiring millions of euros worth of French property using funds diverted from his state. He was on Wednesday sentenced to four years in prison.

The French court ordered the seizure of all of Rifaat al-Assad's property in France -- which judicial sources estimate is worth $113 million -- as well as a property worth $32 million in London.

Rifaat al-Assad has lived in exile, mostly in France, since the mid-1980s, after being accused of trying to seize power from his brother, then-President Hafez al-Assad, Bashar's father. He previously commanded troops accused of killing thousands of people to crush an Islamist uprising in 1982.

French judicial authorities suspected him of having unduly acquired real estate in several countries between 1984 and 2016 with funds from Syria. He repeatedly denied the allegations and said he acquired his wealth as a gift from the Saudi king.

The French court also ordered him to pay 30,000 euros to the anti-corruption organisations Sherpa and Transparency International France, which first filed a legal complaint against him in 2013.

Among the properties that will be seized is a mansion on the prestigious Avenue Foch in Paris.

He will not be sent to prison pending the appeal.

In 2017, Spanish authorities seized more than 500 Spanish properties from him, worth about 700 million euros, as part of a Franco-Spanish money-laundering operation.

(with inputs)

The exiled uncle of Syria President Bashar al-Assad -- Rifaat al-Assad -- has been found guilty of acquiring millions of euros worth of French property using funds diverted from his state.

The exiled uncle of Syria President Bashar al-Assad -- Rifaat al-Assad -- has been found guilty of acquiring millions of euros worth of French property using funds diverted from his state. He was on Wednesday sentenced to four years in prison. The French court ordered the seizure of all of Rifaat al-Assad's property in France -- which judicial sources estimate is worth $113 million -- as well as a property worth $32 million in London. Rifaat al-Assad has lived in exile, mostly in France, since the mid-1980s, after being accused of trying to seize power from his brother, then-President Hafez al-Assad, Bashar's father. He previously commanded troops accused of killing thousands of people to crush an Islamist uprising in 1982. French judicial authorities suspected him of having unduly acquired real estate in several countries between 1984 and 2016 with funds from Syria. He repeatedly denied the allegations and said he acquired his wealth as a gift from the Saudi king. The French court also ordered him to pay 30,000 euros to the anti-corruption organisations Sherpa and Transparency International France, which first filed a legal complaint against him in 2013. Among the properties that will be seized is a mansion on the prestigious Avenue Foch in Paris. He will not be sent to prison pending the appeal. In 2017, Spanish authorities seized more than 500 Spanish properties from him, worth about 700 million euros, as part of a Franco-Spanish money-laundering operation. (with inputs)

French court finds Syria president's exiled uncle guilty of property fraud

France and Germany became the latest European countries to reopen their borders as the continent emerges from its three-month COVID-19 lockdown. Watch report.

Europe cautiously limps towards normalcy: France-Germany border reopens for EU nations

President announces an end to restrictions for French bars, restaurants, cafes. There will also be a return for schools, colleges and nurseries in a week's time

France reopen beaches to citizens after 2 months

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