Concluding D-Day celebrations on Juno beach, with birds singing in the background, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Thursday made a plea for global peace and understanding.

Trudeau, Philippe address Juno Beach ceremony

The Indian and French air forces will carry out a two-week-long mega air exercise beginning July 1 in France in a boost to military-to-military ties between the two countries, officials said Wednesday.

India, France to hold mega air exercise ‘Garuda’ in July

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-former-foreign-secretary-a-surprise-pick-in-team-modi-20-222869">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial".

"Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet.

The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation.&nbsp;

On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation.

"Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries. Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial". "Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet. The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation. On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation. "Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.

S Jaishankar holds telephonic conversations with foreign ministers of France, Turkey

President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump continues their commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Nazi-occupied northern France by Allied forces. President Trump was joined by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at ceremony. Watch this video to know more.

D-Day: French national colours on display

President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump continues their commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the D-Day. President Trump was joined by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at ceremony. Watch this video to know more.

Trump, Macron attend French-American D-Day commemoration

The president of France and prime minister of Britain on Thursday said "thank you" to D-Day veterans and those who died in the landmark invasion exactly 75 years ago.

Macron and May attend D-Day memorial inauguration

Presidents Trump and Macron rose to deliver a round of applause to the veterans seated behind them at the service. Emmanuel Macron then rose to deliver his speech. He said the troops who carried out the Normandy landings were faced, above all, with "the anxiety of the unknown."

Donald Trump, world leaders gather to commemorate D-Day, pay tribute to heroes

As bullets flew around him, pinging off the metal ramp of his landing craft, US Army medic Ray Lambert scanned the chaotic scene for some place to take cover, and to which he could bring the wounded.

D-Day US Army medic reunited with "his" rock

Millions of people were set to mark the milestone of the Normandy landings in a series of events in the UK and France today. Second World War veterans also attended the national commemorative event in Portsmouth on Wednesday.

Queen, world leaders honor veterans on D-Day anniversary

France President Emmanuel Macron and Britan's PM Theresa May delivers their speech on inauguration of memorial in Normandy. The Memorial casted names of 20,000 martyred British troops at the time of World War II.

Emmanuel Macron, May delivers speech on inauguration of memorial in Normandy

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 05th, 2019

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 04th, 2019

Can you sue a government for climate change? The French govt is facing a lawsuit for air pollution in Paris. This report from Gravitas tells you where India stands on combating pollution.

Gravitas: Mother & daughter sue France for failing to protect them against air pollution

Volunteers jumped off a platform hanging from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower on Tuesday for a thrilling ride down an 800 metre zipline. All of the volunteers wore a pair of goggles, so they were able to admire the Paris skyline as they sped down the zipline at over 90 kilometres per hour.

Thrill-seekers take zipline ride off Eiffel Tower at over 90 kilometres per hour

West African states fighting Islamist militancy in the region should not take France's military presence for granted because Paris will not be there forever, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Tuesday.

The Sahel region is suffering from a spike of violence from militant groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State, highlighting the difficulty international partners face in restoring regional stability.

The northern region of Burkina Faso, bordering Mali and Niger, has been especially hard hit in recent months, while spiralling ethnic conflicts have also added to the instability.

"The authorities of the countries in the Sahel should not stay in the comfort zone of thinking Barkhane (French forces) is behind them," Le Drian told the parliamentary foreign affairs committee.

"It's a temptation, (but) progressively what needs to be said is that the security of Africans will be ensured by Africans. The aim isn't for Barkhane to stay there for an eternity."

France, the former colonial power in the region, intervened in Mali in 2013 to drive out Islamist militants who had occupied the north. It has since kept about 4,500 troops in the region as part of Barkhane counter-terrorism operations.

Led by Paris, Western powers have provided funding to a regional force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania to combat jihadists.

But the so-called G5 force has been hobbled by delays in disbursing the money and poor coordination between the five countries while insecurity has escalated.

"The joint force must progressively assume its responsibilities. Barkhane can't do everything. The baton must be taken by the countries concerned. It's happening , but not fast enough," Le Drian said.

His comments were a rare criticism of the Sahel powers. It shows a growing frustration from France as the violence has taken new dimensions in recent months with repeated Islamist attacks and communal clashes especially in Mali.

The Malian authorities have also come under fire for failing to disarm militias or beat back Islamist insurgents, who have been capitalising on the ethnic violence to recruit new members and extend their reach in the Sahel.

Le Drian also said that the United Nations MINUSMA peacekeeping mission based in Mali since 2013 and which includes about 15,000 soldiers and police, would face a test next month when its mandate is due to be renewed.

The United States said in March it had failed to deliver peace and the Security Council should consider a major drawdown.

"There is pressure from US&nbsp;that wants to reduce costs on peacekeeping forces and could convince some actors (to curb the mission)," Le Drian said.

West African states fighting Islamist militancy in the region should not take France's military presence for granted because Paris will not be there forever, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Tuesday.

West African states fighting Islamist militancy in the region should not take France's military presence for granted because Paris will not be there forever, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Tuesday. The Sahel region is suffering from a spike of violence from militant groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State, highlighting the difficulty international partners face in restoring regional stability. The northern region of Burkina Faso, bordering Mali and Niger, has been especially hard hit in recent months, while spiralling ethnic conflicts have also added to the instability. "The authorities of the countries in the Sahel should not stay in the comfort zone of thinking Barkhane (French forces) is behind them," Le Drian told the parliamentary foreign affairs committee. "It's a temptation, (but) progressively what needs to be said is that the security of Africans will be ensured by Africans. The aim isn't for Barkhane to stay there for an eternity." France, the former colonial power in the region, intervened in Mali in 2013 to drive out Islamist militants who had occupied the north. It has since kept about 4,500 troops in the region as part of Barkhane counter-terrorism operations. Led by Paris, Western powers have provided funding to a regional force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania to combat jihadists. But the so-called G5 force has been hobbled by delays in disbursing the money and poor coordination between the five countries while insecurity has escalated. "The joint force must progressively assume its responsibilities. Barkhane can't do everything. The baton must be taken by the countries concerned. It's happening , but not fast enough," Le Drian said. His comments were a rare criticism of the Sahel powers. It shows a growing frustration from France as the violence has taken new dimensions in recent months with repeated Islamist attacks and communal clashes especially in Mali. The Malian authorities have also come under fire for failing to disarm militias or beat back Islamist insurgents, who have been capitalising on the ethnic violence to recruit new members and extend their reach in the Sahel. Le Drian also said that the United Nations MINUSMA peacekeeping mission based in Mali since 2013 and which includes about 15,000 soldiers and police, would face a test next month when its mandate is due to be renewed. The United States said in March it had failed to deliver peace and the Security Council should consider a major drawdown. "There is pressure from US that wants to reduce costs on peacekeeping forces and could convince some actors (to curb the mission)," Le Drian said.

Don't take our troops for granted, France warns West African states

France must stop the "inhumane treatment" of children of jihadists stranded in Syria who are not being allowed to come to the country, its rights ombudsman said Wednesday, warning that Paris was flouting its UN obligations.

The statement by France's Human Rights Defender Jacques Toubon came as controversy intensifies over the reluctance of French authorities to take in the children of French citizens affiliated with Islamic State (IS) jihadists in Syria and Iraq.

"The French state needs to adopt effective measures allowing the halt to the inhumane and degrading treatment of children and their mothers and put an end to the violations of the rights of the child," Toubon said.

He alleged violations of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which France is a signatory.

The human rights defender leads an independent state institution set up in 2011 and enshrined in the constitution to defend people whose rights have been violated.

Toubon had been asked to give an opinion on the issue by the lawyers of several families with French citizens held in Syria and Iraq.

According to the French foreign ministry, some 450 French citizens linked to IS are either detained by Kurdish forces in northern Syria or being held in refugee camps.

But France is reluctant to bring back foreign fighters or their families after suffering a wave of deadly jihadist attacks that have killed more than 250 people since 2015.

It has said it would consider requests for their return, but only on a case-by-case basis. Since March it has repatriated five orphans and a three-year-old girl whose mother was sentenced to life in prison in Iraq.

In April, France's State Council, which rules on the constitutionality of policies and laws, rejected several requests to intervene, saying it was a French diplomatic matter outside the council's jurisdiction.

"Finally a national authority has condemned France and urged it to respect its international and European obligations," said lawyer Marie Dose, who represents several of the affected families, after Toubon's statement.

Lawyers William Bourdon and Vincent Brengarth, who represented families who sought the opinion, welcomed the recognition "of the extreme seriousness of the violation of fundamental rights".

"We expect that the French authorities will organise the repatriation (of the children) as soon as possible," they said in a statement.

The grandparents of two children stranded with their French jihadist mother at a camp in Kurdish-held Syria filed a lawsuit with the European Court of Human Rights earlier this month over France's refusal to allow them home.

France must stop the "inhumane treatment" of children of jihadists stranded in Syria who are not being allowed to come to the country, its rights ombudsman said Wednesday, warning that Paris was flouting its UN obligations.

France must stop the "inhumane treatment" of children of jihadists stranded in Syria who are not being allowed to come to the country, its rights ombudsman said Wednesday, warning that Paris was flouting its UN obligations. The statement by France's Human Rights Defender Jacques Toubon came as controversy intensifies over the reluctance of French authorities to take in the children of French citizens affiliated with Islamic State (IS) jihadists in Syria and Iraq. "The French state needs to adopt effective measures allowing the halt to the inhumane and degrading treatment of children and their mothers and put an end to the violations of the rights of the child," Toubon said. He alleged violations of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which France is a signatory. The human rights defender leads an independent state institution set up in 2011 and enshrined in the constitution to defend people whose rights have been violated. Toubon had been asked to give an opinion on the issue by the lawyers of several families with French citizens held in Syria and Iraq. According to the French foreign ministry, some 450 French citizens linked to IS are either detained by Kurdish forces in northern Syria or being held in refugee camps. But France is reluctant to bring back foreign fighters or their families after suffering a wave of deadly jihadist attacks that have killed more than 250 people since 2015. It has said it would consider requests for their return, but only on a case-by-case basis. Since March it has repatriated five orphans and a three-year-old girl whose mother was sentenced to life in prison in Iraq. In April, France's State Council, which rules on the constitutionality of policies and laws, rejected several requests to intervene, saying it was a French diplomatic matter outside the council's jurisdiction. "Finally a national authority has condemned France and urged it to respect its international and European obligations," said lawyer Marie Dose, who represents several of the affected families, after Toubon's statement. Lawyers William Bourdon and Vincent Brengarth, who represented families who sought the opinion, welcomed the recognition "of the extreme seriousness of the violation of fundamental rights". "We expect that the French authorities will organise the repatriation (of the children) as soon as possible," they said in a statement. The grandparents of two children stranded with their French jihadist mother at a camp in Kurdish-held Syria filed a lawsuit with the European Court of Human Rights earlier this month over France's refusal to allow them home.

Rights body slams France's 'inhumane treatment' of jihadists' children

France&nbsp;said Tuesday it was stepping up efforts to stop&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;executing four<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-french-is-members-sentenced-to-death-in-iraq-judiciary-221787"> </a>French citizens convicted of fighting alongside the Islamic State (IS) group.

An Iraqi court&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday sentenced<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-french-is-members-sentenced-to-death-in-iraq-judiciary-221787"> three French nationals to death for joining the Islamic State group</a>, the first IS members from&nbsp;France&nbsp;to be sentenced to capital punishment.

On&nbsp;Monday, a fourth French citizen was also condemned to death in Baghdad. The four have 30 days to appeal.

"We are increasing the steps to avoid the death penalty for these four French citizens," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said&nbsp;on&nbsp;France&nbsp;Inter radio&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday.

"We are opposed to the death penalty... I myself reminded the president of&nbsp;Iraq, President (Barham) Saleh, of our position," he said, without giving further details.

In recent months,&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate".

France&nbsp;has long insisted that it's adult citizens captured in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they face capital punishment for waging their jihadist war in the region.

Le Drian reaffirmed&nbsp;France's refusal to accept any repatriations of its nationals affiliated with IS. "These terrorists,&nbsp;because they are terrorists, who attacked us, who also caused death in&nbsp;Iraq, must be judged where they committed their crimes," he said.

The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it has tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018.

Its courts have condemned many to live in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April.

France said Tuesday it was stepping up efforts to stop Iraq executing four French citizens convicted of fighting alongside the Islamic State (IS) group. An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced three French nationals to death for joining the Islamic State group, the first IS members from France to be sentenced to capital punishment.

France said Tuesday it was stepping up efforts to stop Iraq executing four French citizens convicted of fighting alongside the Islamic State (IS) group. An Iraqi court on Sunday sentenced three French nationals to death for joining the Islamic State group, the first IS members from France to be sentenced to capital punishment. On Monday, a fourth French citizen was also condemned to death in Baghdad. The four have 30 days to appeal. "We are increasing the steps to avoid the death penalty for these four French citizens," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on France Inter radio on Tuesday. "We are opposed to the death penalty... I myself reminded the president of Iraq, President (Barham) Saleh, of our position," he said, without giving further details. In recent months, Iraq has taken custody of thousands of jihadists, including foreigners, captured in neighbouring Syria by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) during the battle to destroy the IS "caliphate". France has long insisted that it's adult citizens captured in Iraq or Syria must face trial locally, refusing to repatriate them despite the risk they face capital punishment for waging their jihadist war in the region. Le Drian reaffirmed France's refusal to accept any repatriations of its nationals affiliated with IS. "These terrorists, because they are terrorists, who attacked us, who also caused death in Iraq, must be judged where they committed their crimes," he said. The Iraqi judiciary said earlier in May that it has tried and sentenced more than 500 suspected foreign members of IS since the start of 2018. Its courts have condemned many to live in prison and others to death, although no foreign IS members have yet been executed. The country remains in the top five "executioner" nations in the world, an Amnesty International report said in April.

France increases pressure on Iraq not to execute Islamic State convicts

The celebration of voters of the French far-right National Rally party contrasted with the dissatisfaction of the supporters of the Renaissance list, the flagbearer team for the European Parliament election of President Emmanuel Macron's Republic on the Move party, as polling results were announced on Sunday night (May 26).

National Rally voters cheer, Macron supporters 'disappointed' with EU election results

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-question-of-fir-registration-or-cbi-probe-into-rafale-deal-centre-to-supreme-court-221786">Rafale</a> Project management team office last Sunday.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale Project management team office in France last Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

"A forensic team comprising cyber forensic experts in planned to be sent for the probe. In the initial investigations, it has emerged that no hard disk or files have been stolen," government sources told ANI.

They said the officers would find out if any soft copies were stolen or copied by the unidentified elements after they broke into the Rafale PMT office.

The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring.

The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case.

Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices.

The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its Rafale Project management team office last Sunday.

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its Rafale Project management team office last Sunday. Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale Project management team office in France last Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. "A forensic team comprising cyber forensic experts in planned to be sent for the probe. In the initial investigations, it has emerged that no hard disk or files have been stolen," government sources told ANI. They said the officers would find out if any soft copies were stolen or copied by the unidentified elements after they broke into the Rafale PMT office. The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring. The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case. Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices. The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.

IAF team to visit France to probe possible data theft during Rafale office break-in

New allegations the Syrian government is using chemical weapons must be looked into, the French foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

The US State Department on Tuesday said it saw signs that the Syrian government may be using chemical weapons, including an alleged chlorine attack on Sunday in northwest Syria.

"We have noted with a degree of alarm these allegations, which need to be looked into," the foreign ministry said in an online press briefing.

"We have full confidence in the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons," it added.

New allegations the Syrian government is using chemical weapons must be looked into, the French foreign ministry said on Wednesday. The US State Department on Tuesday said it saw signs that the Syrian government may be using chemical weapons, including an alleged chlorine attack on Sunday in northwest Syria.

New allegations the Syrian government is using chemical weapons must be looked into, the French foreign ministry said on Wednesday. The US State Department on Tuesday said it saw signs that the Syrian government may be using chemical weapons, including an alleged chlorine attack on Sunday in northwest Syria. "We have noted with a degree of alarm these allegations, which need to be looked into," the foreign ministry said in an online press briefing. "We have full confidence in the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons," it added.

Allegations of chemical weapon use in Syria must be examined: France

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-case-supreme-court-poses-queries-on-waiver-of-sovereign-guarantee-217590">Rafale</a> project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

"There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI.

The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring.

The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case.

Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices.

The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.

Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case.

India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength.

The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries.

After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. "There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI. The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring. The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case. Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices. The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks. Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case. India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength. The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi. The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries. After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt

The Eiffel Tower was evacuated and surrounding streets locked down on Monday (May 20) after a man was spotted scaling the upper heights of the monument in the heart of the French capital.

Unidentified man climbs the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said a decision by France regarding the 5G telecoms network would be based on security and performance of networks and added that Paris would not rule out a specific operator as not being welcome.

Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron said it was not the aim of France to block Huawei, nor to launch any form of technological war, a day after the US&nbsp;government moved to blacklist the Chinese telecoms giant.

"We want to carry out a careful control of this 5G deployment ... without designating an operator as unwelcome in France," Le Maire told reporters on Tuesday.

France's ARCEP telecoms regulator also said on Tuesday that 5G deployment would go ahead as planned in 2020 despite the current difficulties faced by Huawei.

"We will take decisions based on technological interest and the strategic security of our networks," said Le Maire.

He added that it was by no means certain that Huawei had the best technology. Paris would assess all the alternatives very closely, he said.

"I'm not sure that we don't have a choice. There are other operators that offer solutions and we are going to assess that in the coming months," he said, referring to Sweden's Ericsson.

"I met the president of Ericsson and he presented technological options... this idea that there is only Huawei and all the other firms are so far behind needs to be checked and can be questioned," said Le Maire.

The U.S. Commerce Department on Friday blocked Huawei from buying U.S. goods, saying the firm was involved in activities contrary to national security, a move that could in turn have an impact on Europe as it begins to roll out 5G services.

"The Huawei-Google affair is quite rightly making so much noise because Google has restricted Huawei of access to technology on Android and this illustrates the clearest example of this technological war," said Le Maire.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said a decision by France regarding the 5G telecoms network would be based on security and performance of networks and added that Paris would not rule out a specific operator as not being welcome.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said a decision by France regarding the 5G telecoms network would be based on security and performance of networks and added that Paris would not rule out a specific operator as not being welcome. Last week, French President Emmanuel Macron said it was not the aim of France to block Huawei, nor to launch any form of technological war, a day after the US government moved to blacklist the Chinese telecoms giant. "We want to carry out a careful control of this 5G deployment ... without designating an operator as unwelcome in France," Le Maire told reporters on Tuesday. France's ARCEP telecoms regulator also said on Tuesday that 5G deployment would go ahead as planned in 2020 despite the current difficulties faced by Huawei. "We will take decisions based on technological interest and the strategic security of our networks," said Le Maire. He added that it was by no means certain that Huawei had the best technology. Paris would assess all the alternatives very closely, he said. "I'm not sure that we don't have a choice. There are other operators that offer solutions and we are going to assess that in the coming months," he said, referring to Sweden's Ericsson. "I met the president of Ericsson and he presented technological options... this idea that there is only Huawei and all the other firms are so far behind needs to be checked and can be questioned," said Le Maire. The U.S. Commerce Department on Friday blocked Huawei from buying U.S. goods, saying the firm was involved in activities contrary to national security, a move that could in turn have an impact on Europe as it begins to roll out 5G services. "The Huawei-Google affair is quite rightly making so much noise because Google has restricted Huawei of access to technology on Android and this illustrates the clearest example of this technological war," said Le Maire.

France: 5G telecoms decision based on security and performance, nobody to be ruled out

Paris St Germain's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-favourite-to-win-ballon-dor-says-kylian-mbappe-220175">Kylian Mbapp</a>e, who has already scored 32 goals this season, was named both the best player and best Under-21 player for the 2018-19 season by his peers on Sunday.

France striker Mbappe, 20, scored twice in the penultimate round on Saturday to become the first French player in 53 years to net at least 32 goals in a Ligue 1 campaign since Philippe Gondet's 36 for Nantes in the 1965-66 season.

"It may be time for me to have more responsibilities, it may be here at PSG, with great pleasure, or maybe somewhere else, with a new project," Mbappe said after receiving his award.

Germany midfielder Dzsenifer Marozsan, who helped Olympique Lyonnais' women's team to a record-extending 13th consecutive league title and fourth straight Champions League crown, was named the best first division female player for the third time in a row.

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Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. 
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Lille's Christophe Galtier was voted best Ligue 1 coach of the season after taking his side to second place behind champions PSG.

Paris St Germain's Kylian Mbappe, who has already scored 32 goals this season, was named both the best player and best Under-21 player for the 2018-19 season by his peers on Sunday.

Paris St Germain's Kylian Mbappe, who has already scored 32 goals this season, was named both the best player and best Under-21 player for the 2018-19 season by his peers on Sunday. France striker Mbappe, 20, scored twice in the penultimate round on Saturday to become the first French player in 53 years to net at least 32 goals in a Ligue 1 campaign since Philippe Gondet's 36 for Nantes in the 1965-66 season. "It may be time for me to have more responsibilities, it may be here at PSG, with great pleasure, or maybe somewhere else, with a new project," Mbappe said after receiving his award. Germany midfielder Dzsenifer Marozsan, who helped Olympique Lyonnais' women's team to a record-extending 13th consecutive league title and fourth straight Champions League crown, was named the best first division female player for the third time in a row. 😄🔝 🏆 Joueur de l’année 🏆 Meilleur Espoir 🏆Équipe Type de la saison Un grand merci pour l’ensemble des votes et du soutien. Je tiens à remercier mes coéquipiers, le staff, le club et ma famille 😍 pic.twitter.com/okKHSndENA — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) May 19, 2019 × Lille's Christophe Galtier was voted best Ligue 1 coach of the season after taking his side to second place behind champions PSG.

Kylian Mbappe voted best top-flight player in France

The switching off from Monday of the life support for a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/parents-appeal-to-french-president-in-right-to-die-case-219660"> Frenchman who has been in a vegetative state for 10 years</a> comes after a six-year legal dispute between his relatives, which rekindled the country's heated debate over euthanasia.

Here is an overview of the case of Vincent Lambert:

Vegetative state&nbsp;

The former psychiatric nurse suffers severe brain damage in a car accident in 2008 that leaves him a quadriplegic at the age of 32.

He is admitted to a hospital in the northeastern city of Reims, where doctors say in 2011 that he is in a vegetative state without hope of improvement.

In 2013 the hospital initiates procedures to cut off life-sustaining intravenous food and water, in line with the wishes of his wife and other relatives.

She and others say Lambert made clear before the accident that he would not want to be kept alive artificially in such circumstances, though this was never put in writing.

But the move is contested by his Catholic parents and two siblings, who urge a local court to rule that life support should continue, which it does.

Taken to higher courts&nbsp;

In January 2014 doctors inform the family for a second time they will stop feeding Lambert intravenously, in line with France's "passive" euthanasia law, which allows doctors to withdraw support for seriously ill or injured patients with no chance of recovery,

But five days later a court rules his treatment must continue, on the request of his parents.&nbsp;

His wife and the hospital appeal to France's supreme administrative court, the State Council, which orders a new medical assessment.

After experts determine that Lambert cannot recover and his condition has even worsened, the council rules in June 2014 that he should be allowed to die.

Lambert's parents take the case to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, which says he must be kept alive as it considers the case.&nbsp;

In June 2015 the court backs the State Council's decision.

The following month the hospital announces a third plan to start procedures to end life support, but days later doctors refuse to follow through, citing security fears as the case enrages pro-life activists.

Fourth attempt&nbsp;

In September 2017 doctors announce a fourth bid to withdraw the life support. Lambert's parents again appeal to the State Council, but the request is rejected in January 2018.

In April a court asks for another medical opinion, at the request of his parents. But the experts involved withdrawing in June, citing criticism and attempts at manipulation.

In November a new assessment concludes that Lambert's chronic vegetative state is irreversible.

In January 2019 a court near Reims upholds the decision to withdraw life support. Lambert's parents again appeal to the State Council and the Europe court, but in vain.

In May a UN committee on disabled rights asks France to suspend any action while it studies the case.

Days later Lambert's doctor says he plans to end life support during the week of May 20. A new court appeal by his parents fails.&nbsp;

On May 18 they ask President Emmanuel Macron to intervene, as France's Conference of Bishops urges doctors to wait for the UN committee's findings.&nbsp;

On May 20 doctors begin switching off the life support.

The switching off from Monday of the life support for a Frenchman who has been in a vegetative state for 10 years comes after a six-year legal dispute between his relatives, which rekindled the country's heated debate over euthanasia.

The switching off from Monday of the life support for a Frenchman who has been in a vegetative state for 10 years comes after a six-year legal dispute between his relatives, which rekindled the country's heated debate over euthanasia. Here is an overview of the case of Vincent Lambert: Vegetative state The former psychiatric nurse suffers severe brain damage in a car accident in 2008 that leaves him a quadriplegic at the age of 32. He is admitted to a hospital in the northeastern city of Reims, where doctors say in 2011 that he is in a vegetative state without hope of improvement. In 2013 the hospital initiates procedures to cut off life-sustaining intravenous food and water, in line with the wishes of his wife and other relatives. She and others say Lambert made clear before the accident that he would not want to be kept alive artificially in such circumstances, though this was never put in writing. But the move is contested by his Catholic parents and two siblings, who urge a local court to rule that life support should continue, which it does. Taken to higher courts In January 2014 doctors inform the family for a second time they will stop feeding Lambert intravenously, in line with France's "passive" euthanasia law, which allows doctors to withdraw support for seriously ill or injured patients with no chance of recovery, But five days later a court rules his treatment must continue, on the request of his parents. His wife and the hospital appeal to France's supreme administrative court, the State Council, which orders a new medical assessment. After experts determine that Lambert cannot recover and his condition has even worsened, the council rules in June 2014 that he should be allowed to die. Lambert's parents take the case to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, which says he must be kept alive as it considers the case. In June 2015 the court backs the State Council's decision. The following month the hospital announces a third plan to start procedures to end life support, but days later doctors refuse to follow through, citing security fears as the case enrages pro-life activists. Fourth attempt In September 2017 doctors announce a fourth bid to withdraw the life support. Lambert's parents again appeal to the State Council, but the request is rejected in January 2018. In April a court asks for another medical opinion, at the request of his parents. But the experts involved withdrawing in June, citing criticism and attempts at manipulation. In November a new assessment concludes that Lambert's chronic vegetative state is irreversible. In January 2019 a court near Reims upholds the decision to withdraw life support. Lambert's parents again appeal to the State Council and the Europe court, but in vain. In May a UN committee on disabled rights asks France to suspend any action while it studies the case. Days later Lambert's doctor says he plans to end life support during the week of May 20. A new court appeal by his parents fails. On May 18 they ask President Emmanuel Macron to intervene, as France's Conference of Bishops urges doctors to wait for the UN committee's findings. On May 20 doctors begin switching off the life support.

France's six-year battle over a man's life support

Paris' Iron Lady Completes 130 Years Laser light show displays Eiffel Tower in all its splendour as the iconic monument celebrates 130 years. Take a look.

Gravitas: Eiffel Tower celebrates its 130th Year

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-attack-israel-if-us-standoff-escalates-cabinet-minister-218054&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjw5Zroi6DiAhXD73MBHUmJDUMQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0eu-hyOG3NADuN-CEjFRCc">Iran </a>has no plans to launch centrifuge machines able to enrich uranium at higher capacity or to alter its relations with the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog, the spokesman for its civilian nuclear agency was quoted as saying on Thursday.

Last week, Iran notified <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-formally-arrests-two-canadians-detained-for-months-on-national-security-grounds-219091&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiSoZv9iKDiAhUPaI8KHZpCAroQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ap9JhvFUwGFBEyeAwh7Or">China</a>, France, Germany, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-increasing-influence-in-cuba-stirs-ghost-of-cold-war-215866&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwidaBjKDiAhVu8XMBHYdiC6oQFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-GkCT4tYINrvbMaSSS8oq">Russia </a>and Britain that would scale back some commitments under its 2015 nuclear deal, a year after the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/in-line-with-us-sanctions-china-dramatically-reduces-trade-with-tehran-193997&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq8qOQjKDiAhXs8HMBHT78B1MQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rMAagYVdFNnSkmqHlCI1z">United States withdrew from the pact and reimposed sanctions on Tehran</a>.

Iran’s initial moves, involving the stockpiling of some nuclear materials, did not appear to violate the deal's terms.

But Iran warned that unless the other signatories to the deal protect Iran’s economy from US&nbsp;sanctions within 60 days, Tehran would start refining uranium to a fissile purity above that deemed suitable for fuelling civilian power plants.

"We do not currently have any plan to increase capacity and production process by changing the capacity of centrifuges," Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, told the semi-official news agency ISNA.

"Increasing the capacity and production process is being carried out with the same number of already installed centrifuges in Natanz (enrichment plant)," Kamalvandi said.

Regarding enhanced monitoring of Iranian nuclear sites by the IAEA under the deal, "in some stages, and to carry out some technical work, the IAEA needs to be informed in advance, which has been done and is being done," ISNA quoted him as saying.

The restrictions on uranium enrichment accepted by Iran under the deal were aimed at extending the time it would need to produce a nuclear bomb, if it chose to, to a year from roughly 2-3 months.

The United States and the IAEA believe Iran had a clandestine nuclear weapons programme that it later abandoned.

Tehran denies ever having had one.

The deal imposes a 15-year cap on the level of purity to which Iran can enrich uranium at 3.67 per cent, far below the 90 per cent of weapons-grade.

It is also well below the 20 per cent level to which Iran enriched uranium before the deal.

Iran is also allowed to refine uranium only with its first-generation, lower-capacity IR-1 centrifuges.

It can use small numbers of more advanced centrifuges for research, but without accumulating enriched uranium.

Iran has no plans to launch centrifuge machines able to enrich uranium at higher capacity or to alter its relations with the UN nuclear watchdog, the spokesman for its civilian nuclear agency was quoted as saying on Thursday.

Iran has no plans to launch centrifuge machines able to enrich uranium at higher capacity or to alter its relations with the UN nuclear watchdog, the spokesman for its civilian nuclear agency was quoted as saying on Thursday. Last week, Iran notified China, France, Germany, Russia and Britain that would scale back some commitments under its 2015 nuclear deal, a year after the United States withdrew from the pact and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. Iran’s initial moves, involving the stockpiling of some nuclear materials, did not appear to violate the deal's terms. But Iran warned that unless the other signatories to the deal protect Iran’s economy from US sanctions within 60 days, Tehran would start refining uranium to a fissile purity above that deemed suitable for fuelling civilian power plants. "We do not currently have any plan to increase capacity and production process by changing the capacity of centrifuges," Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, told the semi-official news agency ISNA. "Increasing the capacity and production process is being carried out with the same number of already installed centrifuges in Natanz (enrichment plant)," Kamalvandi said. Regarding enhanced monitoring of Iranian nuclear sites by the IAEA under the deal, "in some stages, and to carry out some technical work, the IAEA needs to be informed in advance, which has been done and is being done," ISNA quoted him as saying. The restrictions on uranium enrichment accepted by Iran under the deal were aimed at extending the time it would need to produce a nuclear bomb, if it chose to, to a year from roughly 2-3 months. The United States and the IAEA believe Iran had a clandestine nuclear weapons programme that it later abandoned. Tehran denies ever having had one. The deal imposes a 15-year cap on the level of purity to which Iran can enrich uranium at 3.67 per cent, far below the 90 per cent of weapons-grade. It is also well below the 20 per cent level to which Iran enriched uranium before the deal. Iran is also allowed to refine uranium only with its first-generation, lower-capacity IR-1 centrifuges. It can use small numbers of more advanced centrifuges for research, but without accumulating enriched uranium.

Iran plans no changes to nuclear centrifuges, IAEA ties: civilian nuclear agency spokesman

France and New Zealand have announced an initiative to eliminate terror and extremist content online in the aftermath of the Christchurch attack on March 15 at a meet in Paris. Over 51 people died in the mosque attack. It was live-streamed on Facebook.&nbsp;

The Initiative "The Christchurch Call to Action To Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content Online" is backed by several countries such as Norway, Senegal, Canada, Jordan, UK, Indonesia, Australia, Germany, Japan, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden.

India also supported the initiative with India's IT secretary Ajay Prakash Sawhney present during its adoption. US won't be joining the initiative according to US media reports.

While the initiative calls for "collective, voluntary commitments from governments and online service providers" to address the issue of terrorist and violent extremist content online but within the "principles of a free, open and secure internet without compromising human rights and fundamental freedoms".

A number of global tech giants also took part in the adoption of the initiative in Paris--these include Microsoft, Google, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

The online service providers in the initiative to combat online extremist content committed to, "closing accounts where appropriate" and "implement immediate, effective measures to mitigate the specific risk that terrorist and violent extremist content is disseminated through live streaming."

Steps have earlier been taken to address the issue such as at the European Union Internet Forum, the G20, and the G7 including work underway during France’s G7 Presidency on combating the use of the internet for terrorist and violent extremist purposes.

France and New Zealand have announced an initiative to eliminate terror and extremist content online in the aftermath of the Christchurch attack on March 15 at a meet in Paris.

France and New Zealand have announced an initiative to eliminate terror and extremist content online in the aftermath of the Christchurch attack on March 15 at a meet in Paris. Over 51 people died in the mosque attack. It was live-streamed on Facebook. The Initiative "The Christchurch Call to Action To Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content Online" is backed by several countries such as Norway, Senegal, Canada, Jordan, UK, Indonesia, Australia, Germany, Japan, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden. India also supported the initiative with India's IT secretary Ajay Prakash Sawhney present during its adoption. US won't be joining the initiative according to US media reports. While the initiative calls for "collective, voluntary commitments from governments and online service providers" to address the issue of terrorist and violent extremist content online but within the "principles of a free, open and secure internet without compromising human rights and fundamental freedoms". A number of global tech giants also took part in the adoption of the initiative in Paris--these include Microsoft, Google, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. The online service providers in the initiative to combat online extremist content committed to, "closing accounts where appropriate" and "implement immediate, effective measures to mitigate the specific risk that terrorist and violent extremist content is disseminated through live streaming." Steps have earlier been taken to address the issue such as at the European Union Internet Forum, the G20, and the G7 including work underway during France’s G7 Presidency on combating the use of the internet for terrorist and violent extremist purposes.

India backs France, New Zealand initiative to eliminate terror content online

In response to the Christchurch attack, King Abdullah II of Jordan and Senegalese President Macky Sall arrived in Paris on Wednesday (May 15) to attend a meeting to discuss tackling terrorism and online extremism.

Leaders of Jordan and Senegal arrive in Paris to join plea against extremism

The wife and children of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-charges-ex-interpol-chief-with-accepting-bribes-217520">former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei</a>, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday.

Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said.

Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger.

A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes.

He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China.

But his wife said recently that Chinese officials had presented "no proof whatsoever to back up their charges."

In French media interviews she has said she fears for her life, and was afraid she and her seven-year-old twins would be the targets of kidnapping attempts.

In January, when she lodged her asylum request, she told Liberation newspaper that two Chinese businessmen, one of whom she knew, visited her at home in October and invited her to travel with them by private jet to the Czech Republic.

She also said that later that month, the Chinese consulate in Lyon said they had a letter for her from her husband, but insisted she show up in person to collect it.

She also reported receiving "strange phone calls" and said she was once followed into a hotel by a Chinese couple who attempted to gather information about her.

Meng Hongwei is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies.

He has since been replaced as president of Interpol by South Korea's Kim Jong-yang.

The wife and children of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday.

The wife and children of former Interpol chief Meng Hongwei, who vanished while visiting China in September last year, have been granted political asylum in France, the family's lawyer told AFP on Monday. Grace Meng, who was given police protection after she alleged an abduction attempt at the start of the year, was granted asylum on May 2 along with the couple's two children, their lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny said. Meng Hongwei disappeared last September after leaving the French city of Lyon, where Interpol is based, for China. He later sent his wife a social media message telling her to "wait for my call," and then a knife emoji signifying danger. A few weeks later Interpol was informed that Meng, the first Chinese president at the international police agency, had resigned, with China later saying he was being held on suspicion of taking bribes. He was officially charged this month with accepting bribes that allowed him to illegally obtain several properties while Marine Police chief and vice minister in China. But his wife said recently that Chinese officials had presented "no proof whatsoever to back up their charges." In French media interviews she has said she fears for her life, and was afraid she and her seven-year-old twins would be the targets of kidnapping attempts. In January, when she lodged her asylum request, she told Liberation newspaper that two Chinese businessmen, one of whom she knew, visited her at home in October and invited her to travel with them by private jet to the Czech Republic. She also said that later that month, the Chinese consulate in Lyon said they had a letter for her from her husband, but insisted she show up in person to collect it. She also reported receiving "strange phone calls" and said she was once followed into a hotel by a Chinese couple who attempted to gather information about her. Meng Hongwei is among a growing group of Communist Party cadres caught in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign, which critics say has served as a way to remove the leader's political enemies. He has since been replaced as president of Interpol by South Korea's Kim Jong-yang.

Wife of Chinese ex-Interpol boss granted asylum in France: Lawyer

French forces freed four hostages, including an American and South Korean, during a night-time rescue in Burkina Faso in which two soldiers were killed, according to a statement from France's Elysee Palace on Friday.

Breaking: Two soldiers killed in French-led rescue of four hostages in Burkina Faso

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