French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday announced the end of much of coronavirus lockdown measures and said that France had marked its first victory in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

"The fight against the epidemic is not finished but I am happy about this first victory against the virus," Macron said in an address to the nation, his fourth since COVID-19 cases began surging in March.

The French president said that he would "draw the lessons" from a crisis that has killed nearly 30,000 people in the country.

He said all of mainland France, including Paris, would go into a "green zone" of a lower state of alert starting Monday, meaning cafes and restaurants in the French capital could open in full and not just on terraces.

The announcement will be a relief for restaurants in the French capital and its suburbs, after officials signalled last week that their reopening might not come before June 22.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-unveils-plan-to-reopen-non-schengen-borders-305539">Also read:&nbsp;France unveils plan to reopen non-Schengen borders</a>

Only the overseas territories of Mayotte and French Guiana will remain at the "orange" alert level, with high numbers of cases still posing a threat to strained hospital systems.

Macron also said that all French schools, except high schools, would fully reopen from June 22, a move that will allow more parents to return to work and give students at least a few days with their teachers before the summer break.

Family visits will also be allowed from Monday at retirement homes, which have been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 outbreak that has killed more than 29,000 people in France, though the number of new infections has slowed markedly in recent days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-chief-prosecutor-to-launch-probe-into-states-coronavirus-handling-304590">Also read:&nbsp;France's chief prosecutor to launch probe into state's coronavirus handling</a>

"As soon as tomorrow we will be able to turn the page on this first chapter across all our territory," Macron said.

The president also confirmed that the second round of municipal elections originally set for March when the government imposed the lockdown against the virus, would go ahead as planned on June 28.

Mass gatherings will remain "tightly controlled" for now, since "they are the main occasions for spreading the virus," he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday announced the end of much of coronavirus lockdown measures and said that France had marked its first victory in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday announced the end of much of coronavirus lockdown measures and said that France had marked its first victory in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. "The fight against the epidemic is not finished but I am happy about this first victory against the virus," Macron said in an address to the nation, his fourth since COVID-19 cases began surging in March. The French president said that he would "draw the lessons" from a crisis that has killed nearly 30,000 people in the country. He said all of mainland France, including Paris, would go into a "green zone" of a lower state of alert starting Monday, meaning cafes and restaurants in the French capital could open in full and not just on terraces. The announcement will be a relief for restaurants in the French capital and its suburbs, after officials signalled last week that their reopening might not come before June 22. Also read: France unveils plan to reopen non-Schengen borders Only the overseas territories of Mayotte and French Guiana will remain at the "orange" alert level, with high numbers of cases still posing a threat to strained hospital systems. Macron also said that all French schools, except high schools, would fully reopen from June 22, a move that will allow more parents to return to work and give students at least a few days with their teachers before the summer break. Family visits will also be allowed from Monday at retirement homes, which have been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 outbreak that has killed more than 29,000 people in France, though the number of new infections has slowed markedly in recent days. Also read: France's chief prosecutor to launch probe into state's coronavirus handling "As soon as tomorrow we will be able to turn the page on this first chapter across all our territory," Macron said. The president also confirmed that the second round of municipal elections originally set for March when the government imposed the lockdown against the virus, would go ahead as planned on June 28. Mass gatherings will remain "tightly controlled" for now, since "they are the main occasions for spreading the virus," he said.

Macron says France has scored its 'first victory' against virus as country lifts curbs

As nations begin to topple statues of controversial figures in the wake of anti-racism protests, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that France would not "take down any of its statues".&nbsp;

"The Republic will not wipe away any trace or any name from its history. It will not forget any of its works. It will not take down any of its statues but lucidly look at our history and our memory together," Macron said, in an address to the nation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-adama-traore-whose-death-identical-to-george-floyd-is-triggering-protests-in-france-304278">Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France</a>

He said this was particularly important in Africa, where French colonial rule in several nations is being observed as a subject of anger for many people.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-police-to-ban-chokehold-arrest-as-protest-anger-mounts-304399">France police to ban chokehold arrest as protest anger mounts</a>

France and Africa need to collectively find a "present and a future that is possible on both sides of the Mediterranean", Macron said.&nbsp;

In many countries, including the UK, New Zealand, statues that are a symbol of racism, slavery are being taken down after the worldwide protests sparked following the death of George Floyd, an African American in the US.&nbsp;

Anti-racism protests erupted in France too in recent weeks and the demonstrators are also demanding justice for Adama Traore, a black man who died in France in 2016.&nbsp;

Macron said that France will be "uncompromising against racism, anti-Semitism and discrimination" and added that new measures would be taken for "equality".

"It is necessary to unite around Republican patriotism. We are a nation where everyone -- whatever their origin and religion -- can find their place," Macron said.

"Is this true everywhere and for everyone? No."&nbsp;

French President also supported the nation's police force, which is often accused of practicing racism, saying they "deserve public support and the recognition of the nation for their work".

As nations begin to topple statues of controversial figures in the wake of anti-racism protests, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that France would not "take down any of its statues".

As nations begin to topple statues of controversial figures in the wake of anti-racism protests, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that France would not "take down any of its statues". "The Republic will not wipe away any trace or any name from its history. It will not forget any of its works. It will not take down any of its statues but lucidly look at our history and our memory together," Macron said, in an address to the nation. Also read | Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France He said this was particularly important in Africa, where French colonial rule in several nations is being observed as a subject of anger for many people. Also read | France police to ban chokehold arrest as protest anger mounts France and Africa need to collectively find a "present and a future that is possible on both sides of the Mediterranean", Macron said. In many countries, including the UK, New Zealand, statues that are a symbol of racism, slavery are being taken down after the worldwide protests sparked following the death of George Floyd, an African American in the US. Anti-racism protests erupted in France too in recent weeks and the demonstrators are also demanding justice for Adama Traore, a black man who died in France in 2016. Macron said that France will be "uncompromising against racism, anti-Semitism and discrimination" and added that new measures would be taken for "equality". "It is necessary to unite around Republican patriotism. We are a nation where everyone -- whatever their origin and religion -- can find their place," Macron said. "Is this true everywhere and for everyone? No." French President also supported the nation's police force, which is often accused of practicing racism, saying they "deserve public support and the recognition of the nation for their work".

Emmanuel Macron says France will not take down any of its statues

France will gradually reopen its borders to countries outside the Schengen zone from July 1, the interior and foreign ministers said in a joint statement on Friday.

France will gradually reopen its borders to countries outside the Schengen zone from July 1, the interior and foreign ministers said in a joint statement on Friday. The borders were shut in mid-March to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, but the European Union recommended on Thursday that the bloc reopen to some countries in the Balkans from July 1. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said in their statement that France's reopening would be in harmony with the rest of the EU. "This opening will be gradual and will vary according to the health situation in each of the third countries, and in accordance with the arrangements that will have been agreed at European level by then," the ministers said. Europe has been particularly hard hit by the pandemic, accounting for almost half of the world's deaths. But the spread has slowed in many of the hardest-hit countries, including Spain, Italy and France, allowing the most restrictive measures to be lifted. Castaner and Le Drian confirmed that France would also lift all border restrictions with other Schengen countries from June 15. Spain remains under restrictions as Madrid enforces a quarantine on all overseas travellers and France has promised reciprocal measures. The Schengen borderless area covers most of the European Union as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein.

France unveils plan to reopen non-Schengen borders

France to gradually reopen it's borders for international travellers from July 1. Watch this video and get more details on this.

France to gradually reopen it's borders for international travellers from July 1

In a desert wilderness in Mali, close to the Algerian border, pitted with isolated rocks and weighed by oppressive heat, French special forces and combat helicopters begin an operation.

At its climax, they claim one of the greatest successes of France's deployment in the Sahel region of north Africa -- the killing of the head of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) Abdelmalek Droukdel.

The French military, for the first time, provided details on Thursday of how late last week it "neutralised" the man it has called "the third deputy" of Al-Qaeda's leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri.

Officials describe the death of the Algerian Droukdel as the fruit of meticulous intelligence work.

This was concluded by a military intervention in broad daylight, about ten kilometres (6.2 miles) from the Algerian border, east of the Malian town of Tessalit.

A source close to the operation said about fifteen French special forces were dropped by at least two transport helicopters, as well as a Tiger combat helicopter and a Gazelle multipurpose helicopter, with a drone in support.

"The capture of Droukdel was not possible," said the source, who asked not to be named.

"The goal is not necessarily to kill," said the official. But "in combat, the men see just rocks" with combatants cowering behind them. "They don't know who is behind the gun". The source added: "This type of individual does not surrender".

The army is not giving details of the exchanges that took place during the operation, merely confirming that fighting took place at close quarters.&nbsp;

"We knew that there was a target of interest in the region for two days. After that, it was all a work of mutual support, between the different sources of intelligence," said the source.

"It is a case of building it up," said the official, without revealing the origin of the information but confirming the help of the United States.

Once the objective was identified and located, conditions in northern Mali at the beginning of the rainy season slowed down the progress of forces on the ground.

In the operation, one individual was captured and handed to the Malian authorities after being interrogated by the French forces.

But the soldiers also seized important digital material, including phones, cards and computers. Analysing them may help explain what Droukdel, who was usually very discreet, was doing in the region.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Buried at the scene' -</h2>

&nbsp;

There has for some time been major fighting between groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda with those of Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-GS).&nbsp;

These have been "violent" fights with "losses on both sides", according to the French source.

It is has not been ruled out that this could have prompted Droukdel's presence in the area.

"It's a real question," said the source, expressing hope that analysis would shed more light on this.&nbsp;

The IS-GS was designated in January as the number one enemy of France's 5,000 strong anti-jihadist force Barkhane and its G5 Sahel allies of Mauritania, Chad, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso.&nbsp;

But, in the end, it was an Al-Qaeda figure who was killed in this operation.&nbsp;

"The fact that today we have focused a certain number of our forces on the most virulent and urgent threat has not distracted us from the surveillance of other branches", said the source.

Once the operation was finished, the special forces "applied the standards of armed conflict: the enemy combatants were buried at the scene".

Meanwhile the prisoner taken "will answer for his actions before the courts", said the source.

The official praised the operational efficiency of the French forces on the ground and in the air, saying they were capable of deploying in a clandestine situation in full gear in temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit).

In military terms, these are "extremely rustic conditions", said the source.

In a desert wilderness in Mali, close to the Algerian border, pitted with isolated rocks and weighed by oppressive heat, French special forces and combat helicopters begin an operation.

In a desert wilderness in Mali, close to the Algerian border, pitted with isolated rocks and weighed by oppressive heat, French special forces and combat helicopters begin an operation. At its climax, they claim one of the greatest successes of France's deployment in the Sahel region of north Africa -- the killing of the head of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) Abdelmalek Droukdel. The French military, for the first time, provided details on Thursday of how late last week it "neutralised" the man it has called "the third deputy" of Al-Qaeda's leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri. Officials describe the death of the Algerian Droukdel as the fruit of meticulous intelligence work. This was concluded by a military intervention in broad daylight, about ten kilometres (6.2 miles) from the Algerian border, east of the Malian town of Tessalit. A source close to the operation said about fifteen French special forces were dropped by at least two transport helicopters, as well as a Tiger combat helicopter and a Gazelle multipurpose helicopter, with a drone in support. "The capture of Droukdel was not possible," said the source, who asked not to be named. "The goal is not necessarily to kill," said the official. But "in combat, the men see just rocks" with combatants cowering behind them. "They don't know who is behind the gun". The source added: "This type of individual does not surrender". The army is not giving details of the exchanges that took place during the operation, merely confirming that fighting took place at close quarters. "We knew that there was a target of interest in the region for two days. After that, it was all a work of mutual support, between the different sources of intelligence," said the source. "It is a case of building it up," said the official, without revealing the origin of the information but confirming the help of the United States. Once the objective was identified and located, conditions in northern Mali at the beginning of the rainy season slowed down the progress of forces on the ground. In the operation, one individual was captured and handed to the Malian authorities after being interrogated by the French forces. But the soldiers also seized important digital material, including phones, cards and computers. Analysing them may help explain what Droukdel, who was usually very discreet, was doing in the region. - 'Buried at the scene' - There has for some time been major fighting between groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda with those of Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-GS). These have been "violent" fights with "losses on both sides", according to the French source. It is has not been ruled out that this could have prompted Droukdel's presence in the area. "It's a real question," said the source, expressing hope that analysis would shed more light on this. The IS-GS was designated in January as the number one enemy of France's 5,000 strong anti-jihadist force Barkhane and its G5 Sahel allies of Mauritania, Chad, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso. But, in the end, it was an Al-Qaeda figure who was killed in this operation. "The fact that today we have focused a certain number of our forces on the most virulent and urgent threat has not distracted us from the surveillance of other branches", said the source. Once the operation was finished, the special forces "applied the standards of armed conflict: the enemy combatants were buried at the scene". Meanwhile the prisoner taken "will answer for his actions before the courts", said the source. The official praised the operational efficiency of the French forces on the ground and in the air, saying they were capable of deploying in a clandestine situation in full gear in temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). In military terms, these are "extremely rustic conditions", said the source.

'Capture not possible': France's desert operation against Al-Qaeda chief

Amid the global coronavirus pandemic, more and more protective equipment is ending up in the sea, a French clean-up group warned on Tuesday (June 9).

Discarded PPE in seas a 'new type of pollution', French cleanup group says

France has decided to end special government powers that were brought in after the country witnessed an outbreak of coronavirus. The powers will end on July 10 but will still be able to curb mass gatherings and freedom of movement for four months, as per Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-marks-one-year-of-pro-democracy-activism-with-fresh-protests-53-arrested-304706" hreflang="en">Hong Kong marks one year of pro-democracy activism with fresh protests, 53 arrested</a>

In March, France witnessed an outbreak of the virus and the state decided to pass "state of health emergency" legislation. This legislation gave government powers to restrict civil liberties by decree without parliamentary approval.

With the coronavirus figures are declining in the European country, France lifted its lockdown on May 11 and now is confident to end emergency powers.&nbsp;

"In view of the positive evolution of the health situation at this stage, the government wishes to put an end to the state of health emergency, which must remain an exceptional case," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office said.

On Wednesday, the French cabinet will pass a new bill that will allow the government to restrict freedom of movement, make face masks compulsory on public transport, shut businesses and ban gatherings for another four months, Prime Minister's office said.

France has the third-highest death-toll (29,296) in Europe, behind the UK and Italy. Shops, holiday resorts and tourist attractions slowly reopening as the country eases its lockdown.

France has decided to end special government powers that were brought in after the country witnessed an outbreak of coronavirus. The powers will end on July 10 but will still be able to curb mass gatherings and freedom of movement for four months, as per Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office.

France has decided to end special government powers that were brought in after the country witnessed an outbreak of coronavirus. The powers will end on July 10 but will still be able to curb mass gatherings and freedom of movement for four months, as per Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office. Also read: Hong Kong marks one year of pro-democracy activism with fresh protests, 53 arrested In March, France witnessed an outbreak of the virus and the state decided to pass "state of health emergency" legislation. This legislation gave government powers to restrict civil liberties by decree without parliamentary approval. With the coronavirus figures are declining in the European country, France lifted its lockdown on May 11 and now is confident to end emergency powers. "In view of the positive evolution of the health situation at this stage, the government wishes to put an end to the state of health emergency, which must remain an exceptional case," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office said. On Wednesday, the French cabinet will pass a new bill that will allow the government to restrict freedom of movement, make face masks compulsory on public transport, shut businesses and ban gatherings for another four months, Prime Minister's office said. France has the third-highest death-toll (29,296) in Europe, behind the UK and Italy. Shops, holiday resorts and tourist attractions slowly reopening as the country eases its lockdown.

France to end special coronavirus health powers on July 10: Prime Minister

France said on Monday it would ban the controversial chokehold used to detain suspects after the death in custody of George Floyd in the United States intensified anger over the conduct of French police. 
 
A wave of global protests in the wake of Floyd's fatal arrest magnified attention on the 2016 death in French police custody of Adama Traore, a 24-year-old black man, and renewed controversy over claims of racism and brutality within the force. 
 
France's police watchdog said it had received almost 1,500 complaints against officers last year -- half of them for alleged violence. 
 
After a string of protests in recent days, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner announced the chokehold method "will be abandoned".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/meet-adama-traore-whose-death-identical-to-george-floyd-is-triggering-protests-in-france-304278" hreflang="en">Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France</a> 
 
"It will no longer be taught in police and gendarmerie schools. It is a method that has its dangers," he told a press conference. 
 
He added there would be "zero tolerance" for racism in law enforcement and officers strongly suspected of racism would be suspended. 
 
Castaner said too many officers "have failed in their Republican duty" in recent weeks, with several instances of racist and discriminatory remarks revealed. 
 
"It is not enough to condemn it," said Castaner. "We have to track it down and combat it."

'The police are not racist' 
But police unions questioned the changes. 
 
The impression given is that "everyone is nice except the police who are mean," said Philippe Capon of the Unsa-Police union. 
 
Frederic Lagache on the Alliance Union said he feared that police will be reduced to "street fighting or the use of tasers".Earlier Monday, President Emmanuel Macron urged his government to "accelerate" steps to improve police ethics. 
 
Former Prime Minister Manuel Valls said "the police are not racist", but racism, anti-Semitism and violence ran through society and the security forces "unfortunately do not escape these phenomena". 
 
Macron met Castaner and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Sunday a day after some 23,000 people protested in several French cities to demand "justice" for victims of crimes allegedly committed by police.

'Crisis of confidence' 
The French demonstrations started in response to an expert report clearing the three officers who arrested Traore. 
 
This was in spite of one of the officers having admitted the young man had been pinned to the ground with their combined body weight, and a report commissioned by Traore's family finding he had died due to the police intervention. 
 
Traore's family said they had been contacted by the office of Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet on Monday inviting them to "have an exchange" on the case, but they refused. 
 
"Adama Traore's family points out they expect legal advances are needed, not invitations to a discussion that would have no procedural purpose," a committee called "Truth for Adama" wrote on its Facebook page.&nbsp; 
 
Some 20,000 people rallied in Paris last Tuesday to demand justice for Traore and Floyd, defying a coronavirus ban on public gatherings. 
 
Floyd had similarly died after being pinned to the ground while under arrest.&nbsp; 
 
Media outlets last week published the contents of a private Facebook group on which French police members repeatedly used racist and sexist terms and mocked victims of police brutality. 
 
The IGPN police watchdog said on Monday that complaints against officers rose by nearly a quarter last year, when officers were deployed for months of weekly "yellow vest" anti-government protests.

The rallies often sparked tense confrontations that left several officers injured by rioting protesters, but also civilians beaten or struck by rubber bullets. 
 
Officially, 2,500 demonstrators and 1,800 law enforcement agents were injured in yellow vest protests. 
 
Activists say two dozen people lost an eye as police used rubber bullets to rein in the rallies, and five lost a hand to stun grenades. 
 
This year, video footage showed a riot officer punching a bloodied protester held down on his back, another tripping a woman, and yet another firing a rubber bullet at point-blank range. 
 
Macron has instructed Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet to look into Traore's death, and Castaner to step up measures to "improve the ethics" of the police force, the presidency said.&nbsp;

France said on Monday it would ban the controversial chokehold used to detain suspects after the death in custody of George Floyd in the United States intensified anger over the conduct of French police.

France said on Monday it would ban the controversial chokehold used to detain suspects after the death in custody of George Floyd in the United States intensified anger over the conduct of French police. A wave of global protests in the wake of Floyd's fatal arrest magnified attention on the 2016 death in French police custody of Adama Traore, a 24-year-old black man, and renewed controversy over claims of racism and brutality within the force. France's police watchdog said it had received almost 1,500 complaints against officers last year -- half of them for alleged violence. After a string of protests in recent days, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner announced the chokehold method "will be abandoned". Also read: Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France "It will no longer be taught in police and gendarmerie schools. It is a method that has its dangers," he told a press conference. He added there would be "zero tolerance" for racism in law enforcement and officers strongly suspected of racism would be suspended. Castaner said too many officers "have failed in their Republican duty" in recent weeks, with several instances of racist and discriminatory remarks revealed. "It is not enough to condemn it," said Castaner. "We have to track it down and combat it." 'The police are not racist' But police unions questioned the changes. The impression given is that "everyone is nice except the police who are mean," said Philippe Capon of the Unsa-Police union. Frederic Lagache on the Alliance Union said he feared that police will be reduced to "street fighting or the use of tasers".Earlier Monday, President Emmanuel Macron urged his government to "accelerate" steps to improve police ethics. Former Prime Minister Manuel Valls said "the police are not racist", but racism, anti-Semitism and violence ran through society and the security forces "unfortunately do not escape these phenomena". Macron met Castaner and Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Sunday a day after some 23,000 people protested in several French cities to demand "justice" for victims of crimes allegedly committed by police. 'Crisis of confidence' The French demonstrations started in response to an expert report clearing the three officers who arrested Traore. This was in spite of one of the officers having admitted the young man had been pinned to the ground with their combined body weight, and a report commissioned by Traore's family finding he had died due to the police intervention. Traore's family said they had been contacted by the office of Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet on Monday inviting them to "have an exchange" on the case, but they refused. "Adama Traore's family points out they expect legal advances are needed, not invitations to a discussion that would have no procedural purpose," a committee called "Truth for Adama" wrote on its Facebook page. Some 20,000 people rallied in Paris last Tuesday to demand justice for Traore and Floyd, defying a coronavirus ban on public gatherings. Floyd had similarly died after being pinned to the ground while under arrest. Media outlets last week published the contents of a private Facebook group on which French police members repeatedly used racist and sexist terms and mocked victims of police brutality. The IGPN police watchdog said on Monday that complaints against officers rose by nearly a quarter last year, when officers were deployed for months of weekly "yellow vest" anti-government protests. The rallies often sparked tense confrontations that left several officers injured by rioting protesters, but also civilians beaten or struck by rubber bullets. Officially, 2,500 demonstrators and 1,800 law enforcement agents were injured in yellow vest protests. Activists say two dozen people lost an eye as police used rubber bullets to rein in the rallies, and five lost a hand to stun grenades. This year, video footage showed a riot officer punching a bloodied protester held down on his back, another tripping a woman, and yet another firing a rubber bullet at point-blank range. Macron has instructed Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet to look into Traore's death, and Castaner to step up measures to "improve the ethics" of the police force, the presidency said.

France police to ban chokehold arrest as protest anger mounts

France's chief prosecutor has opened a probe into the government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak. The probe could result in charges like "involuntary homicide" and "endangering life".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wearing-masks-will-be-compulsory-in-spain-until-virus-gets-eradicated-health-minister-304578" hreflang="en">Wearing masks will be compulsory in Spain until virus gets eradicated: Health Minister</a>

The investigation has been launched after complaints were filed by members of the public. The probe will be directed towards national authorities, who committed "possible" criminal offence and it will not be used to determine &nbsp;"political or administrative responsibility," as what Remy Heitz told AFP.&nbsp;

France's President Emmanuel Macron will be immune to any inquiries or prosecution as he is the head of the state.&nbsp;

France has been one of the worst-hit countries in terms of coronavirus. The European country reported over 154,000 cases and over 29,000 deaths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The economy of the country has been hit hard due to coronavirus lockdown. According to the Bank of France, the economy in the country will shrink about 10 per cent this year due to the pandemic. Their recovery to pre-crisis level will not possible before 2022.

France's chief prosecutor has opened a probe into the government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak. The probe could result in charges like "involuntary homicide" and "endangering life".

France's chief prosecutor has opened a probe into the government's handling of the coronavirus outbreak. The probe could result in charges like "involuntary homicide" and "endangering life". Also read: Wearing masks will be compulsory in Spain until virus gets eradicated: Health Minister The investigation has been launched after complaints were filed by members of the public. The probe will be directed towards national authorities, who committed "possible" criminal offence and it will not be used to determine "political or administrative responsibility," as what Remy Heitz told AFP. France's President Emmanuel Macron will be immune to any inquiries or prosecution as he is the head of the state. France has been one of the worst-hit countries in terms of coronavirus. The European country reported over 154,000 cases and over 29,000 deaths. The economy of the country has been hit hard due to coronavirus lockdown. According to the Bank of France, the economy in the country will shrink about 10 per cent this year due to the pandemic. Their recovery to pre-crisis level will not possible before 2022.

France's chief prosecutor to launch probe into state's coronavirus handling

Paris's zoo re-opened on Monday (June 8) after a three month closure because of COVID-19 shutdown with 62 new residents.

Paris zoo re-opens with 62 new residents born during coronavirus shutdown

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism.&nbsp;

And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-across-the-us-march-again-demanding-police-reforms-after-floyd-killing-304116">Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-across-the-us-march-again-demanding-police-reforms-after-floyd-killing-304116">&nbsp;</a>

"They died in exactly the same way," Adam's sister Assa Traore said, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

"Adama carried the weight of three officers on his body."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-street-artist-banksy-pays-tribute-to-george-floyd-with-new-artwork-303896">British street artist Banksy pays tribute to George Floyd with new artwork</a>

Adama, also a black man like Floyd, ran from the police during an argument over an identity check after he celebrated his birthday on July 19, 2016.&nbsp;

He was nabbed after three police officers pinned him on the ground by using their combined body weight. He died as soon as the officials took him to a police station.&nbsp;

His death triggered huge protests in France, where police's high-handed actions and racism remain unaddressed.&nbsp;

Recently, the content of a Facebook group was leaked where police officers used sexist and racist terms and mocked victims of police brutality.

Even after four years, there has not been any prosecution as medical experts still couldn't conclude whether Adama died of police actions or prevailing medical condition. &nbsp;

The protests that have all faded have revived recently in France, sparked by the murder of Floyd.&nbsp;

Last week, thousands in France protested throughtout the week, with chants saying "let us breathe", "no justice, no peace".&nbsp;

"It’s a strong, powerful echo," Assa said.&nbsp;

Adama's friends and family members are urging for support for holding nationwide protests in France.&nbsp;

"All the light shed on the George Floyd case has served as a reminder of the numerous other victims who died in the same conditions as George Floyd," said actor Almamy Kanoute, who is a part of the campaign that demands justice for Adama. &nbsp;

"We’re not saying the police in France are the same as in the United States. But the deadly techniques used in the United States are the same ones as in some European countries, the same ones that kill the same type of people."

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism. And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd.

The protests over the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, United States has reached across the world, where several demonstrators denouncing racism. And this protest wave has given France a demand justice for Adama Traore, who was also a victim of police brutality and his killing was similar to that of Floyd. Also read | Protesters across the US march again, demanding police reforms after Floyd killing "They died in exactly the same way," Adam's sister Assa Traore said, reported Reuters. "Adama carried the weight of three officers on his body." Also read | British street artist Banksy pays tribute to George Floyd with new artwork Adama, also a black man like Floyd, ran from the police during an argument over an identity check after he celebrated his birthday on July 19, 2016. He was nabbed after three police officers pinned him on the ground by using their combined body weight. He died as soon as the officials took him to a police station. His death triggered huge protests in France, where police's high-handed actions and racism remain unaddressed. Recently, the content of a Facebook group was leaked where police officers used sexist and racist terms and mocked victims of police brutality. Even after four years, there has not been any prosecution as medical experts still couldn't conclude whether Adama died of police actions or prevailing medical condition. The protests that have all faded have revived recently in France, sparked by the murder of Floyd. Last week, thousands in France protested throughtout the week, with chants saying "let us breathe", "no justice, no peace". "It’s a strong, powerful echo," Assa said. Adama's friends and family members are urging for support for holding nationwide protests in France. "All the light shed on the George Floyd case has served as a reminder of the numerous other victims who died in the same conditions as George Floyd," said actor Almamy Kanoute, who is a part of the campaign that demands justice for Adama. "We’re not saying the police in France are the same as in the United States. But the deadly techniques used in the United States are the same ones as in some European countries, the same ones that kill the same type of people."

Meet Adama Traore, whose death identical to George Floyd is triggering protests in France

France has reiterated his demands for Iran to release French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, whom Iran had sentenced to six years in prison on national security charges.

"Today, I once again formally demand on behalf of France the immediate liberation by Iran of Madame Adelkhah," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a statement on Friday.

"This ongoing situation can only have a negative impact on the bilateral relations between France and Iran, and can only significantly reduce the trust between our two countries," he added.

This comes in the wake of Iran freeing a US Navy veteran who had been detained since 2018.

He was freed on Thursday as part of a deal in which the United States allowed an Iranian-American physician to visit Iran, his lawyer and a US official said.

Iran's decision to release American Michael White and the U.S. move to let dual citizen Majid Taheri visit Iran, both of which were confirmed by Iran's foreign minister, appeared to be a rare instance of US-Iranian cooperation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-is-possible-trump-says-thank-you-to-iran-as-us-navy-veteran-michael-white-released-from-prison-303443">Also read | Trump says 'thank you to Iran' as US Navy veteran Michael White released from prison</a>

A White House spokesman expressed hope that White's release could lead to an opening in the bitter relationship.

"I just got off the phone with former American hostage Michael White, who is now in Zurich after being released from Iran. He will be on a U.S. plane shortly, and is COMING HOME," Trump said on Twitter.

"Thank you to Iran, it shows a deal is possible!" Trump added.

France has reiterated his demands for Iran to release French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, whom Iran had sentenced to six years in prison on national security charges.

France has reiterated his demands for Iran to release French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, whom Iran had sentenced to six years in prison on national security charges. "Today, I once again formally demand on behalf of France the immediate liberation by Iran of Madame Adelkhah," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a statement on Friday. "This ongoing situation can only have a negative impact on the bilateral relations between France and Iran, and can only significantly reduce the trust between our two countries," he added. This comes in the wake of Iran freeing a US Navy veteran who had been detained since 2018. He was freed on Thursday as part of a deal in which the United States allowed an Iranian-American physician to visit Iran, his lawyer and a US official said. Iran's decision to release American Michael White and the U.S. move to let dual citizen Majid Taheri visit Iran, both of which were confirmed by Iran's foreign minister, appeared to be a rare instance of US-Iranian cooperation. Also read | Trump says 'thank you to Iran' as US Navy veteran Michael White released from prison A White House spokesman expressed hope that White's release could lead to an opening in the bitter relationship. "I just got off the phone with former American hostage Michael White, who is now in Zurich after being released from Iran. He will be on a U.S. plane shortly, and is COMING HOME," Trump said on Twitter. "Thank you to Iran, it shows a deal is possible!" Trump added.

France reiterates demand for release of French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah

An art gallery in Paris has turned to 'winged' headware inspired by an ancient Chinese dynasty to ensure its visitors respect coronavirus social distancing rules as they peruse the displays.

Winged hats introduced at Paris gallery for social distancing

Gyms across France re-opened for business on Tuesday (June 3) with social distancing measures in place to limit the risk of COVID-19 infection.

French gyms re-open with taped off running machines

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial.

UN&nbsp;prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994. He is indicted for genocide and incitement to commit genocide, among other charges.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/rwanda-genocide-suspect-kabuga-arrested-by-french-police-299069" hreflang="en">Rwanda genocide suspect Kabuga arrested by French police</a>

Kabuga, whose arrest in Paris in May ended a manhunt that lasted more than two decades, has called the charges lies.&nbsp;

His lawyers say he would not receive a fair trial at the tribunal, which is based in The Hague and in Arusha, Tanzania. They also argue his health is too frail for him to be transferred to the African country, particularly during a dangerous pandemic.&nbsp;

But the court said his health was "not incompatible" with a transfer. The 87-year-old is currently being held in a Paris prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/belgian-court-convicts-rwandan-official-for-genocide-269281" hreflang="en">Belgian court convicts Rwandan official for genocide</a>

In a letter to the UN&nbsp;tribunal's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, ahead of Wednesday's ruling, Kabuga's lawyers urged him to leave the case with France's judiciary.&nbsp;

"If you were to decide to assert the primacy of your jurisdiction over French jurisdiction, thus endangering the life of Felicien Kabuga, we would take the risk of renouncing on discovering the truth forever," Laurent Bayon wrote, citing Kabuga's medical history.

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial. UN prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994.

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial. UN prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994. He is indicted for genocide and incitement to commit genocide, among other charges. Also read: Rwanda genocide suspect Kabuga arrested by French police Kabuga, whose arrest in Paris in May ended a manhunt that lasted more than two decades, has called the charges lies. His lawyers say he would not receive a fair trial at the tribunal, which is based in The Hague and in Arusha, Tanzania. They also argue his health is too frail for him to be transferred to the African country, particularly during a dangerous pandemic. But the court said his health was "not incompatible" with a transfer. The 87-year-old is currently being held in a Paris prison. Also read: Belgian court convicts Rwandan official for genocide In a letter to the UN tribunal's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, ahead of Wednesday's ruling, Kabuga's lawyers urged him to leave the case with France's judiciary. "If you were to decide to assert the primacy of your jurisdiction over French jurisdiction, thus endangering the life of Felicien Kabuga, we would take the risk of renouncing on discovering the truth forever," Laurent Bayon wrote, citing Kabuga's medical history.

French court orders Rwanda genocide suspect be tried at UN tribunal

Brazil health minister said on Saturday that the country recorded&nbsp;33,274 new coronavirus cases even as&nbsp;the death toll surpassed that of France and now ranks only below the United States, Britain and Italy.

The South American nation has now reported 498,440 confirmed cases of coronavirus since the outbreak began, a level of contagion second only to the United States.

The death toll in Brazil from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus, increased to 28,834, with 956 new deaths in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

Brazilian states are preparing to ease quarantine restrictions despite warnings from public health experts who say the worst is still to come.

Brazil's right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro has played down the gravity of the epidemic and criticized lockdowns for paralyzing the economy and causing widespread unemployment and hardship. 
&nbsp;

Brazil health minister said on Saturday that the country recorded 33,274 new coronavirus cases even as the death toll surpassed that of France and now ranks only below the United States, Britain and Italy.

Brazil health minister said on Saturday that the country recorded 33,274 new coronavirus cases even as the death toll surpassed that of France and now ranks only below the United States, Britain and Italy. The South American nation has now reported 498,440 confirmed cases of coronavirus since the outbreak began, a level of contagion second only to the United States. The death toll in Brazil from COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus, increased to 28,834, with 956 new deaths in the last 24 hours, the ministry said. Brazilian states are preparing to ease quarantine restrictions despite warnings from public health experts who say the worst is still to come. Brazil's right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro has played down the gravity of the epidemic and criticized lockdowns for paralyzing the economy and causing widespread unemployment and hardship.

Brazil records 33,274 new coronavirus cases, surpasses France in deaths

France, Germany and Britain on Saturday criticised US' decision to end sanctions waivers allowing work on Iranian nuclear sites designed to prevent weapons development.

The United States said on Wednesday it would&nbsp;terminate the waivers, which had allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to carry out work at Iranian nuclear sites.

"We deeply regret the US decision to end the three waivers. These projects, endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2231, serve the non-proliferation interests of all and provide the international community with assurances of the exclusively peaceful and safe nature of Iranian nuclear activities," the three European countries said in a joint statement.

The role of the foreign firms was agreed in Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers in 2015, and was intended to help ensure Iran’s nuclear programme would not be used to make weapons.

The waivers had allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to work on the conversion of Iran's Arak heavy water reactor, the provision of enriched uranium for a Tehran research reactor, and the transfer of spent fuel abroad.&nbsp;

To this end, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation (AEOI) said on Thursday that the US decision would not affect Iran’s nuclear programme.

“The ending of waivers for nuclear cooperation under (the nuclear deal) will not in practice have any effect on Iran’s work,” AEOI spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi said, in remarks reported by ISNA news agency.&nbsp;

“Of course America wants its actions to have an effect in line with pressure on Iran, but in practice nothing will happen.”

Under the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018 and has since reimposed sanctions. Iran has scaled back its commitments under the deal but says it still abides by its overall terms.

The waivers, which officials said expire on July 27, covered the conversion of Iran’s Arak heavy water research reactor, the provision of enriched uranium for its Tehran Research Reactor and the transfer of spent and scrap reactor fuel abroad.

(with inputs from Reuters)

France, Germany and Britain on Saturday criticised US' decision to end sanctions waivers allowing work on Iranian nuclear sites designed to prevent weapons development.

France, Germany and Britain on Saturday criticised US' decision to end sanctions waivers allowing work on Iranian nuclear sites designed to prevent weapons development. The United States said on Wednesday it would terminate the waivers, which had allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to carry out work at Iranian nuclear sites. "We deeply regret the US decision to end the three waivers. These projects, endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2231, serve the non-proliferation interests of all and provide the international community with assurances of the exclusively peaceful and safe nature of Iranian nuclear activities," the three European countries said in a joint statement. The role of the foreign firms was agreed in Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers in 2015, and was intended to help ensure Iran’s nuclear programme would not be used to make weapons. The waivers had allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to work on the conversion of Iran's Arak heavy water reactor, the provision of enriched uranium for a Tehran research reactor, and the transfer of spent fuel abroad. To this end, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation (AEOI) said on Thursday that the US decision would not affect Iran’s nuclear programme. “The ending of waivers for nuclear cooperation under (the nuclear deal) will not in practice have any effect on Iran’s work,” AEOI spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi said, in remarks reported by ISNA news agency. “Of course America wants its actions to have an effect in line with pressure on Iran, but in practice nothing will happen.” Under the 2015 nuclear agreement, Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. US President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018 and has since reimposed sanctions. Iran has scaled back its commitments under the deal but says it still abides by its overall terms. The waivers, which officials said expire on July 27, covered the conversion of Iran’s Arak heavy water research reactor, the provision of enriched uranium for its Tehran Research Reactor and the transfer of spent and scrap reactor fuel abroad. (with inputs from Reuters)

France, Britain and Germany regret US end to Iran nuclear waivers

Renaud Capucon, a French concert violinist accustomed to playing to rooms of 2,000 people and more, performed on Thursday (May 28) evening for an audience of zero, but he said the experience was none the worse for it.

Playing to an empty room: Orchestra gives COVID Concert

The number of coronavirus cases in France is dropping significantly from the past few days. The country is seeking to revive it's seeking down economy by easing restrictions.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Businesses in France to reopen in June, Travel restrictions eased

A giant plastic bubble with adjoining tubes may look out of place in the garden of an elderly care home in northern France.But this inflatable innovation is helping residents and their loved ones be physically in touch again, while respecting safety measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Plastic "bubble" in French care home helps bring families back together

The French envoy to India Emmanuel Lenain has said India and France have increased cooperation at the current times of COVID crisis and both are with both "are friends in happy times, and in rough times". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, ambassador Emmanuel Lenain said, both "have been supporting each other" and "India has been exemplary in providing drugs, medical equipment when needed". Meanwhile, French development agency AFD is working to provide a special loan of 200 million euro to finance and support some health programmes in India.

Exclusive: French envoy to India Emmanuel Lenain speaks to WION

The Riviera resort of Cannes should have been playing host to the world's biggest names in film. Instead, with its annual film festival postponed and the red carpet rolled up, locals made do with a drive-in cinema in a beachfront car park.

Popcorn, palm trees and face masks: Cannes rolls out drive-in cinema

It's still at an initial stage, but a French team at a veterinary school is hoping to use dogs to sniff out COVID-19 positive people through the particular smell of sufferer's sweat.

French dogs trained to sniff out COVID-19 sufferers

As the coronavirus pandemic has shattered world economies, European countries are working on new ways to counter the economic crisis. Europe's largest economies Germany and France have proposed a $545 billion recovery fund that would offer grants to European Union regions and sectors hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic.

As the coronavirus pandemic has shattered world economies, European countries are working on new ways to counter the economic crisis. Europe's largest economies Germany and France have proposed a $545 billion recovery fund that would offer grants to European Union regions and sectors hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. The fund will boost the efforts to create a co-ordinated European fiscal response to the coronavirus pandemic. The funds would be raised by the European Commission through borrowing on capital markets. The fund would be an additional top-up to the 2021-2027 EU budget. The grants should be paid back over a long time and Germany would shoulder roughly 27% of the funds. But there will be some conditions attached to these grants from the recovery fund. The grants will be based on a clear commitment from member states to follow sound economic policies and an ambitious reform agenda. The European Commission is to present its proposal for a recovery fund linked to the EU's next long-term budget on May 27. But the proposal could face opposition from some of the frugal northern countries of the 27-nation bloc, like the Netherlands, Finland and Austria. The announcement of the proposal pushed up the Euro against other global currencies and brought down Italian bond yields as well.

France, Germany propose $545 billion EU rescue fund

Roman Catholics in a town in eastern France were able to attend mass in their cars on Sunday (May 17), in the country's first drive-in religious service since the start of a lockdown eight weeks ago aimed at halting the spread of the Coronavirus.

French Catholics celebrate mass in parking lot

In a first in France, a nine-year-old boy died from an ailment with symptoms of the Kawasaki disease, after coming into contact with the coronavirus The boy was initially diagnosed with scarlet fever and advised to go home.

In a first in France, a nine-year-old boy died from an ailment with symptoms of the Kawasaki disease, after coming into contact with the coronavirus The boy was initially diagnosed with scarlet fever and advised to go home. However, he was later readmitted and died after suffering a cardiac arrest. The child succumbed to the "Pediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome" whose symptoms are similar to the Kawasaki disease. Doctors say that the illness is mostly benign and non-contagious, but can cause a heart attack in extreme cases. Director of pediatric ICU service at the university hospital of Marseille Timone, professor Fabrice Michel, said: "The symptoms of this disease, not with this specific child, but the others, are first of all a high fever, which will often last for many days, large fatigue, there could be headaches, there could be skin rashes, there are often digestive symptoms with abdominal pain, and these symptoms are quite varied, there could be chest pains when it impacts the heart, and there could several symptoms present, or one or two of them." However, doctors have cautioned that they are yet to establish a conclusive link between coronavirus and toxic shock syndromes in children.

France: Nine-year-old boy dies from ailment with symptoms of Kawasaki disease

In France, the dairy industry is in distress. Cheese sales dropping by 60%. The industry is now asking the French citizens to eat cheese as a national duty.

Eating cheese: A national duty in France? | Gravitas

A French drugmaker sparked outrage after its CEO said that the US has the right to place the biggest pre-orders for its coronavirus vaccine. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why big pharma backed by wealthy governments poses the biggest challenge to the fight against this pandemic.

Gravitas: Why Coronavirus cures should not be exclusive

French economy&nbsp;faced a huge downfall due to the worldwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus. Like other European countries, France, too, had a lockdown in place for several weeks.

Now, that the number of cases are reducing, the country has lifted the lockdown&nbsp;people are allowed to go back to their daily lives and workplaces.

However, the&nbsp;unemployment rate fell in the first quarter to an 11-year low as people without work were unable to seek jobs once France entered a coronavirus lockdown, the INSEE stats agency said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-urges-people-to-eat-more-cheese-298129">Also watch:&nbsp;France urges people to eat more cheese&nbsp;</a>

The unemployment rate&nbsp;fell to 7.8 per cent from 8.1 per cent in the fourth quarter. This is the biggest downfall since 2008, according to INSEE.

France initiated a nationwide lockdown on March 17 to contain the spread of coronavirus. This led to many people losing their jobs, and they were not able to find any other job. Majority of people who lost their jobs are actively seeking but have been unable to find any source of income.

The unemployment rate before the lockdown, according to INSEE, was 8.2 per cent. To protect the daily source of income of French citizens, the government is reimbursing companies 70% of the gross wages of workers they put on furlough.

Now, with the lockdown being completely lifted, the French government is hoping to revive its economy and increasing the employment rate.

French economy faced a huge downfall due to the worldwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus. Like other European countries, France, too, had a lockdown in place for several weeks.

French economy faced a huge downfall due to the worldwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus. Like other European countries, France, too, had a lockdown in place for several weeks. Now, that the number of cases are reducing, the country has lifted the lockdown people are allowed to go back to their daily lives and workplaces. However, the unemployment rate fell in the first quarter to an 11-year low as people without work were unable to seek jobs once France entered a coronavirus lockdown, the INSEE stats agency said on Thursday. Also watch: France urges people to eat more cheese The unemployment rate fell to 7.8 per cent from 8.1 per cent in the fourth quarter. This is the biggest downfall since 2008, according to INSEE. France initiated a nationwide lockdown on March 17 to contain the spread of coronavirus. This led to many people losing their jobs, and they were not able to find any other job. Majority of people who lost their jobs are actively seeking but have been unable to find any source of income. The unemployment rate before the lockdown, according to INSEE, was 8.2 per cent. To protect the daily source of income of French citizens, the government is reimbursing companies 70% of the gross wages of workers they put on furlough. Now, with the lockdown being completely lifted, the French government is hoping to revive its economy and increasing the employment rate.

French unemployment rate falls down to 7.8%; lowest in 11 years

Footprints stamped the auburn beaches of a Western French city on Wednesday (May 13) for the first time in months as the first beaches in the country reopened to the public during the country's gradual deconfinement period.

First beaches reopen as France softens virus lockdown

A day after exiting an eight-week coronavirus lockdown, Parisians are already making their way back to cosmetics stores and beauty parlours on Tuesday (May 12), ready to glam up for the outside world again even from under their face masks.

Pampering time: Parisians seek post-lockdown beauty upgrade

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