The French National Assembly voted Friday in favour of a largely symbolic ban on parents smacking their children, a practice which though condemned by the UN still enjoys widespread support in the country.

The bill on "corporal punishment or humiliation" seeks to ensure that parental authority is exercised "without violence" of any sort, including "physical, verbal or psychological" violence.

MPs voted it through 51-1 early Friday morning, after a late-night debate, and it will now pass to the Senate.&nbsp;

Attempts by previous governments to ban the practise have run afoul of conservatives.

A 2016 bill condemning the smacking of children was later struck down by the Constitutional Council, which vets legislation, because it was adopted in the form of an amendment to an unrelated piece of legislation.

According to the non-governmental Childhood Foundation, 85 percent of French parents resort to corporal punishment, to the dismay of many European neighbours, including Sweden and Germany.

Schools have long been banned from physically punishing children, but not parents.

Crucially, the bill would not sanction parents who continue to "discipline" their children as its main goal is "educational" -- a way to encourage society to mend its views, according to Maud Petit, the MP who sponsored the measure.

But it will slap down a 19th-century addendum to the Civil Code's definition of parental authority, which is read out to couples taking their wedding vows and which specifically allows for "disciplining" children.

It will also bring France into line with international legislation.

In March 2015, human rights organisation the Council of Europe singled out France for failing to ban smacking, unlike most other European countries.

A year later, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child took up the issue, calling on France to "explicitly prohibit" all forms of corporal punishment of children.&nbsp;

Those in favour of the ban say scientific studies prove that children suffer both mental and physical consequences when smacked.

If the bill is adopted, France will become the 55th state to ban corporal punishment of children, a move started by Sweden in 1979.

The French National Assembly voted Friday in favour of a largely symbolic ban on parents smacking their children, a practice which though condemned by the UN still enjoys widespread support in the country.

The French National Assembly voted Friday in favour of a largely symbolic ban on parents smacking their children, a practice which though condemned by the UN still enjoys widespread support in the country. The bill on "corporal punishment or humiliation" seeks to ensure that parental authority is exercised "without violence" of any sort, including "physical, verbal or psychological" violence. MPs voted it through 51-1 early Friday morning, after a late-night debate, and it will now pass to the Senate. Attempts by previous governments to ban the practise have run afoul of conservatives. A 2016 bill condemning the smacking of children was later struck down by the Constitutional Council, which vets legislation, because it was adopted in the form of an amendment to an unrelated piece of legislation. According to the non-governmental Childhood Foundation, 85 percent of French parents resort to corporal punishment, to the dismay of many European neighbours, including Sweden and Germany. Schools have long been banned from physically punishing children, but not parents. Crucially, the bill would not sanction parents who continue to "discipline" their children as its main goal is "educational" -- a way to encourage society to mend its views, according to Maud Petit, the MP who sponsored the measure. But it will slap down a 19th-century addendum to the Civil Code's definition of parental authority, which is read out to couples taking their wedding vows and which specifically allows for "disciplining" children. It will also bring France into line with international legislation. In March 2015, human rights organisation the Council of Europe singled out France for failing to ban smacking, unlike most other European countries. A year later, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child took up the issue, calling on France to "explicitly prohibit" all forms of corporal punishment of children. Those in favour of the ban say scientific studies prove that children suffer both mental and physical consequences when smacked. If the bill is adopted, France will become the 55th state to ban corporal punishment of children, a move started by Sweden in 1979.

France moves closer to ban on smacking children

Members of the French parliament voted in favour of a ban on parents smacking their children, falling into line with the majority of European Union member states, although there will be no punishment for breaking the law.

The civil code will be updated to state that parental authority must be exercised without violence and that parents may not resort to "physical, verbal or psychological violence, nor to corporal punishment or humiliation".

The ban was approved in a thinly attended National Assembly in a session that began late Thursday evening, with 51 votes in favour, one against and three abstentions.

It reverses parental rights to discipline children using corporal punishment granted under Napoleon in the early 1800s.

"We know that routine violence in child rearing could have its consequences on the child, and also on the adolescent and the adult that he or she will become," said Elsa Faucillon from the Democratic and Republican Left party.

The ban was proposed by France's gender equality minister, Marlene Schiappa, who told Le Parisien newspaper that parents are wrong to believe that shouting, slapping or twisting children's ears are appropriate ways to assert authority.

French First Lady Brigitte Macron also supported the ban, but a few conservative and far-right MPs have condemned it as an interference in families' private lives.

As part of the vote, the government will prepare a report about parental violence and propose measures to educate parents.

Following the example of Sweden in 1966, some 54 countries - including 22 of the EU's 28 member countries - have introduced similar laws banning corporal punishment in the home, according to French data.

Members of the French parliament voted in favour of a ban on parents smacking their children, falling into line with the majority of European Union member states, although there will be no punishment for breaking the law.

Members of the French parliament voted in favour of a ban on parents smacking their children, falling into line with the majority of European Union member states, although there will be no punishment for breaking the law. The civil code will be updated to state that parental authority must be exercised without violence and that parents may not resort to "physical, verbal or psychological violence, nor to corporal punishment or humiliation". The ban was approved in a thinly attended National Assembly in a session that began late Thursday evening, with 51 votes in favour, one against and three abstentions. It reverses parental rights to discipline children using corporal punishment granted under Napoleon in the early 1800s. "We know that routine violence in child rearing could have its consequences on the child, and also on the adolescent and the adult that he or she will become," said Elsa Faucillon from the Democratic and Republican Left party. The ban was proposed by France's gender equality minister, Marlene Schiappa, who told Le Parisien newspaper that parents are wrong to believe that shouting, slapping or twisting children's ears are appropriate ways to assert authority. French First Lady Brigitte Macron also supported the ban, but a few conservative and far-right MPs have condemned it as an interference in families' private lives. As part of the vote, the government will prepare a report about parental violence and propose measures to educate parents. Following the example of Sweden in 1966, some 54 countries - including 22 of the EU's 28 member countries - have introduced similar laws banning corporal punishment in the home, according to French data.

France passes law to ban parents smacking kids

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday.

Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness. He powered the ball home to extend the lead 2-0 in the fourth and final quarter with a controlled long pass.

Jenness was given player of the match for his crucial contribution to New Zealand's victory.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

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🏑 | POTM | <a href="https://twitter.com/StephenJenness?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StephenJenness</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/BlackSticks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BlackSticks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> 
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It seemed France wouldn't be able to open its account but in the concluding minutes, France earned a penalty corner and converted it but that was not enough, as the final score was 2-1.\

As it happened&nbsp;| <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-new-zealand-vs-france-180247">New Zealand vs France</a>

In the other match of Pool A, Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain.

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🏆 | It is <a href="https://twitter.com/ArgFieldHockey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArgFieldHockey</a> who top the pool on the second day of Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/XbW16Wd8CH">pic.twitter.com/XbW16Wd8CH</a>
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France, making an appearance in the Men's Hockey World Cup after 28 years, will next meet Spain on December 6.

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday. Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness.

New Zealand defeated France 2-1 in a tight Pool A clash to open their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory at the Kalinga Stadium on Thursday. Kane Russell scored for New Zealand in the 17th minute to give his team a 1-0 lead which was fursther extended by Stephen Jenness. He powered the ball home to extend the lead 2-0 in the fourth and final quarter with a controlled long pass. Jenness was given player of the match for his crucial contribution to New Zealand's victory. Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue 🏑 | POTM | @StephenJenness | @BlackSticks #HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇳🇿 #NZLvFRA 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/ukmLuVp4Cq — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) November 29, 2018 × It seemed France wouldn't be able to open its account but in the concluding minutes, France earned a penalty corner and converted it but that was not enough, as the final score was 2-1.\ As it happened | New Zealand vs France In the other match of Pool A, Olympic champions Argentina were made to dig deep to eke out a 4-3 win over Spain. 🏆 | It is @ArgFieldHockey who top the pool on the second day of Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018.#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 pic.twitter.com/XbW16Wd8CH — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) November 29, 2018 × France, making an appearance in the Men's Hockey World Cup after 28 years, will next meet Spain on December 6.

Hockey World Cup 2018: New Zealand defeat France 2-1

French police have questioned film star Gerard Depardieu over allegations that he raped a young actress, which he strongly denies, a police source said Wednesday.&nbsp;

The source said the 69-year-old actor attended a police interview on Tuesday and is not being kept in custody. He was free to terminate the questioning at any time.

"Gerard Depardieu absolutely denies any attack, any rape," his lawyer Herve Temime told AFP after the actress filed a complaint against him in late August.

"I regret the public nature of this process which is doing major harm to Gerard Depardieu, whose innocence will certainly be proven," Temime said.

Depardieu is accused of raping and assaulting the actress at his mansion in the French capital's chic 6th district between August 7 and 13 this year.

The Parisien newspaper previously reported that the alleged victim is an actress and dancer in her twenties who had sought career advice from Depardieu.&nbsp;

The accusations are the latest in a string against prominent men worldwide in the wake of the rape and assault claims against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein.

French director and producer Luc Besson, most famous for international hits such as "The Fifth Element", was questioned last month over allegations that he also raped a young actress.

On Wednesday five more women accused Besson of sexual assault and harassment, bringing to nine the number of women who have made complaints against him.

Depardieu, who has made more than 180 films, became the face of French cinema through films such as "Cyrano de Bergerac", for which he was nominated for an Oscar.

He has rarely strayed far from the headlines in France.

In 2013 he sparked a huge outcry by taking Russian nationality to protest a proposed tax hike on the rich in his homeland.

His alleged victim filed her complaint in Provence, southern France, and local prosecutors immediately opened an investigation.&nbsp;

The case was transferred to Paris prosecutors on Wednesday.

French police have questioned film star Gerard Depardieu over allegations that he raped a young actress, which he strongly denies, a police source said Wednesday.

French police have questioned film star Gerard Depardieu over allegations that he raped a young actress, which he strongly denies, a police source said Wednesday. The source said the 69-year-old actor attended a police interview on Tuesday and is not being kept in custody. He was free to terminate the questioning at any time. "Gerard Depardieu absolutely denies any attack, any rape," his lawyer Herve Temime told AFP after the actress filed a complaint against him in late August. "I regret the public nature of this process which is doing major harm to Gerard Depardieu, whose innocence will certainly be proven," Temime said. Depardieu is accused of raping and assaulting the actress at his mansion in the French capital's chic 6th district between August 7 and 13 this year. The Parisien newspaper previously reported that the alleged victim is an actress and dancer in her twenties who had sought career advice from Depardieu. The accusations are the latest in a string against prominent men worldwide in the wake of the rape and assault claims against Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein. French director and producer Luc Besson, most famous for international hits such as "The Fifth Element", was questioned last month over allegations that he also raped a young actress. On Wednesday five more women accused Besson of sexual assault and harassment, bringing to nine the number of women who have made complaints against him. Depardieu, who has made more than 180 films, became the face of French cinema through films such as "Cyrano de Bergerac", for which he was nominated for an Oscar. He has rarely strayed far from the headlines in France. In 2013 he sparked a huge outcry by taking Russian nationality to protest a proposed tax hike on the rich in his homeland. His alleged victim filed her complaint in Provence, southern France, and local prosecutors immediately opened an investigation. The case was transferred to Paris prosecutors on Wednesday.

French film star Gerard Depardieu questioned in rape probe

By Sophie Hunter

Emmanuel Macron has just confirmed once again that he has the best interests of the wealthy at heart. A most recent example is the lower middle class-led protests that began on Saturday, November 17. Since then, demonstrators in yellow high visibility vests have been blocking roads, oil refineries, motorway tolls and major supermarket warehouses across France, especially at the periphery of major cities. The root of their discontent is not solely the new tax increase and a rise in fuel costs, which Macron justifies in the name of an ecological transition to a low-carbon economy. Instead, the French have erupted in fury and have marched down the Champs-Élysées because the latest tax hike is shrinking the buying power of the middle and lower classes.

Some analysts doubt whether the movement will gain momentum. Others believe differently. They think that the latest tax hike will rally people from various backgrounds and regions who are united by their disappointment with the president. Since his election in 2017, Emmanuel Macron has introduced or increased a variety of taxes. In March, thousands of pensioners marched through Paris in protest over higher social security taxes. While &nbsp;Macron has scrapped a wealth tax and cut corporate tax, he is taxing the poor more and slashing their benefits. Unsurprisingly, the former investment banker has earned the epithet “president of the rich.”

Since April, Macron’s popularity has been declining. His labour-market reforms led to prolonged strikes by railway unions. Then, the young president chose to attack the French social model for higher education. Currently, French students who pass the baccalaureate exam have the right to attend university in their area. Macron’s reform allows universities to select students on merit. Sit-ins and protests broke out across the country just before the end-of-year exams. After the latest fuel hike protests, the so-called Macronmania is in free fall. Macron’s popularity has crashed to a new low record of 25%. It is clear that the “Macron honeymoon” is over and has been replaced by disillusionment.

Tearing up the social contract

Macron’s policies and reforms are informed by a simple calculus: He wants to make France more dynamic, just like the US and the UK. Curiously, he is doing so at a time when the Anglo-Saxon economic model stands discredited and weakened by the uncertainty of Brexit. No less than a fifth of the UK population now lives in poverty. Children and pensioners are experiencing the worst decline in living conditions in decades. UN special rapporteur, Philip Alston, found 14 million Brits living in poverty, many unable to break its vicious cycle.

Macron has decided that cutting taxes for corporations and the wealthy is the best way to attract investment in France. This investment, combined with privatization of state-owned assets, should bring innovation, jobs and better growth. To achieve this, he must rip up France’s existing social contract and cut costs on its rather generous welfare state. As Owen Jones writes in The Guardian, Macron’s “policies have shifted the workplace balance of power from workers to bosses.” While this comes as no surprise, voters seem to be suffering from memory loss. As economy minister under François Hollande, Macron pushed hard for unpopular policies aimed at unlocking economic growth. Today, as president, he is turning them into reality.

To be fair, the French social model has been under strain for a long time. The 2017 elections demonstrated deepening divisions in French society. The two candidates left standing in the final round were Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen. It was clear that the French, young and old, were willing to shake up the system. Out went the traditional parties on the left and the right. In came two populists, one so-called centrist and the other from the far right. Macron owes his throne to the divisions in France, demonstrating that the center has moved to the right.

A very French Schizophrenia

The very students who now oppose Macron were his greatest supporters who helped elect him in 2017 — he was the preferred candidate for millennial voters from all social strata. He was young, good looking, telegenic, energetic and charismatic. The country of Napoleon likes flair, and Macron had a charming love story that sold well. His high school teacher, 25 years his senior, had fallen in love with him, abandoning her husband to marry her precocious student. This cool new Pied Piper seduced millennials with even greater ease than he had seduced his wife. For the young, Macron was their man.

Unfortunately, young French voters forgot to observe that Macron was an establishment man. He is an énarque, a graduate of the elitist National School of Administration (L’ENA). Last year, French businessman Alain Minc told the Financial Times that Macron was the “perfect product of the French Republican monarchy.” This high flier graduated as an inspecteur des finances — an elite corps of the very highest-ranking graduates from L’ENA. At the height of the global financial crisis in 2008, Macron jetted off to Rothschild, eventually “earning €2.9m and a nickname — ‘the Mozart of finance’ — for his role advising Nestlé on its $12bn acquisition of a unit of Pfizer in 2012.” According to the Financial Times, the Mozart of finance made his fortune because he “mastered the art of networking and navigated around the numerous conflicts of interest that arise in close-knit Parisian business circles.” In other words, Macron was hardly the rebel or the outsider that French millennials imagined him to be.

Macron captures a very French schizophrenia among the young. On the one hand, they are still intoxicated by the memory of the heady days of 1968. They identify with socialist and radical culture. On the other hand, young people still imagine themselves to be important in the world. They might be disillusioned, but they still have both illusions and delusions of grandeur. It is this contradiction that made Macron attractive to them.

Macron’s image appealed to the radical counterculture of May 1968. At the same time, he was promising to modernize the country and put France center stage. His party, La République En Marche! (Republic on the Move!) promised change but never really defined it. He called himself a centrist, but no one asked him what that really meant. He never disclosed who funded his slick campaign. Yet what is indisputable is that Macron did run a brilliant campaign with meticulous attention to branding, marketing and messaging, which was especially successful in seducing millennials. The fact that these two impulses or desires of preserving the legacy of 1968 and of making the country hip in 2017 might ever be contradictory never occurred to Macron’s enthusiastic supporters.

Hyperreality

French youngsters simply fail to realize that la grande nation is no longer the center of the world. They don’t see that time has passed France by. Paris is no London, New York, Singapore or Shanghai. France’s incestuous elite and infamous red tape continue to drive away talent. Yet most French youngsters overlook reality and stick to a perception of France that is nostalgic, wooly and even smug. They don’t think deeply, debate passionately or explore widely.

Admittedly, this situation is not unique to France. Not only the young but also the old in many parts of the world fail to discern the difference between reality and perception. Peter Isackson has written consistently about this new world of hyperreality, where image matters more than substance, where perception overrides reality. In this hyperreal world, the young have lost their ability to think critically. They no longer challenge established norms or institutions. They are ultra sensitive and shy away from debate. They fail to realize that anything meaningful or substantive is controversial, painful and unsafe.

In France and elsewhere, the young mouth platitudes to diversity, but remain slaves to conformity. There are few discussions or debates about immigration, inequality, social mobility, alternative economic models or even education. Paradoxically, as foreshadowed by the Dalai Lama in his “Paradox of Our Times,” this much celebrated millennial generation has wider access to information, greater opportunities to travel and enormous potential to learn, but it is far less accepting of differences than earlier generations. Therefore, it is far more vulnerable to the hyperreality peddled by snake-oil salesmen.

(Sophie Hunter is a French law graduate from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-political-discourse-desperately-needs-a-course-correction-2689959">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

By Sophie Hunter Emmanuel Macron has just confirmed once again that he has the best interests of the wealthy at heart. A most recent example is the lower middle class-led protests that began on Saturday, November 17.

By Sophie Hunter Emmanuel Macron has just confirmed once again that he has the best interests of the wealthy at heart. A most recent example is the lower middle class-led protests that began on Saturday, November 17. Since then, demonstrators in yellow high visibility vests have been blocking roads, oil refineries, motorway tolls and major supermarket warehouses across France, especially at the periphery of major cities. The root of their discontent is not solely the new tax increase and a rise in fuel costs, which Macron justifies in the name of an ecological transition to a low-carbon economy. Instead, the French have erupted in fury and have marched down the Champs-Élysées because the latest tax hike is shrinking the buying power of the middle and lower classes. Some analysts doubt whether the movement will gain momentum. Others believe differently. They think that the latest tax hike will rally people from various backgrounds and regions who are united by their disappointment with the president. Since his election in 2017, Emmanuel Macron has introduced or increased a variety of taxes. In March, thousands of pensioners marched through Paris in protest over higher social security taxes. While Macron has scrapped a wealth tax and cut corporate tax, he is taxing the poor more and slashing their benefits. Unsurprisingly, the former investment banker has earned the epithet “president of the rich.” Since April, Macron’s popularity has been declining. His labour-market reforms led to prolonged strikes by railway unions. Then, the young president chose to attack the French social model for higher education. Currently, French students who pass the baccalaureate exam have the right to attend university in their area. Macron’s reform allows universities to select students on merit. Sit-ins and protests broke out across the country just before the end-of-year exams. After the latest fuel hike protests, the so-called Macronmania is in free fall. Macron’s popularity has crashed to a new low record of 25%. It is clear that the “Macron honeymoon” is over and has been replaced by disillusionment. Tearing up the social contract Macron’s policies and reforms are informed by a simple calculus: He wants to make France more dynamic, just like the US and the UK. Curiously, he is doing so at a time when the Anglo-Saxon economic model stands discredited and weakened by the uncertainty of Brexit. No less than a fifth of the UK population now lives in poverty. Children and pensioners are experiencing the worst decline in living conditions in decades. UN special rapporteur, Philip Alston, found 14 million Brits living in poverty, many unable to break its vicious cycle. Macron has decided that cutting taxes for corporations and the wealthy is the best way to attract investment in France. This investment, combined with privatization of state-owned assets, should bring innovation, jobs and better growth. To achieve this, he must rip up France’s existing social contract and cut costs on its rather generous welfare state. As Owen Jones writes in The Guardian, Macron’s “policies have shifted the workplace balance of power from workers to bosses.” While this comes as no surprise, voters seem to be suffering from memory loss. As economy minister under François Hollande, Macron pushed hard for unpopular policies aimed at unlocking economic growth. Today, as president, he is turning them into reality. To be fair, the French social model has been under strain for a long time. The 2017 elections demonstrated deepening divisions in French society. The two candidates left standing in the final round were Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen. It was clear that the French, young and old, were willing to shake up the system. Out went the traditional parties on the left and the right. In came two populists, one so-called centrist and the other from the far right. Macron owes his throne to the divisions in France, demonstrating that the center has moved to the right. A very French Schizophrenia The very students who now oppose Macron were his greatest supporters who helped elect him in 2017 — he was the preferred candidate for millennial voters from all social strata. He was young, good looking, telegenic, energetic and charismatic. The country of Napoleon likes flair, and Macron had a charming love story that sold well. His high school teacher, 25 years his senior, had fallen in love with him, abandoning her husband to marry her precocious student. This cool new Pied Piper seduced millennials with even greater ease than he had seduced his wife. For the young, Macron was their man. Unfortunately, young French voters forgot to observe that Macron was an establishment man. He is an énarque, a graduate of the elitist National School of Administration (L’ENA). Last year, French businessman Alain Minc told the Financial Times that Macron was the “perfect product of the French Republican monarchy.” This high flier graduated as an inspecteur des finances — an elite corps of the very highest-ranking graduates from L’ENA. At the height of the global financial crisis in 2008, Macron jetted off to Rothschild, eventually “earning €2.9m and a nickname — ‘the Mozart of finance’ — for his role advising Nestlé on its $12bn acquisition of a unit of Pfizer in 2012.” According to the Financial Times, the Mozart of finance made his fortune because he “mastered the art of networking and navigated around the numerous conflicts of interest that arise in close-knit Parisian business circles.” In other words, Macron was hardly the rebel or the outsider that French millennials imagined him to be. Macron captures a very French schizophrenia among the young. On the one hand, they are still intoxicated by the memory of the heady days of 1968. They identify with socialist and radical culture. On the other hand, young people still imagine themselves to be important in the world. They might be disillusioned, but they still have both illusions and delusions of grandeur. It is this contradiction that made Macron attractive to them. Macron’s image appealed to the radical counterculture of May 1968. At the same time, he was promising to modernize the country and put France center stage. His party, La République En Marche! (Republic on the Move!) promised change but never really defined it. He called himself a centrist, but no one asked him what that really meant. He never disclosed who funded his slick campaign. Yet what is indisputable is that Macron did run a brilliant campaign with meticulous attention to branding, marketing and messaging, which was especially successful in seducing millennials. The fact that these two impulses or desires of preserving the legacy of 1968 and of making the country hip in 2017 might ever be contradictory never occurred to Macron’s enthusiastic supporters. Hyperreality French youngsters simply fail to realize that la grande nation is no longer the center of the world. They don’t see that time has passed France by. Paris is no London, New York, Singapore or Shanghai. France’s incestuous elite and infamous red tape continue to drive away talent. Yet most French youngsters overlook reality and stick to a perception of France that is nostalgic, wooly and even smug. They don’t think deeply, debate passionately or explore widely. Admittedly, this situation is not unique to France. Not only the young but also the old in many parts of the world fail to discern the difference between reality and perception. Peter Isackson has written consistently about this new world of hyperreality, where image matters more than substance, where perception overrides reality. In this hyperreal world, the young have lost their ability to think critically. They no longer challenge established norms or institutions. They are ultra sensitive and shy away from debate. They fail to realize that anything meaningful or substantive is controversial, painful and unsafe. In France and elsewhere, the young mouth platitudes to diversity, but remain slaves to conformity. There are few discussions or debates about immigration, inequality, social mobility, alternative economic models or even education. Paradoxically, as foreshadowed by the Dalai Lama in his “Paradox of Our Times,” this much celebrated millennial generation has wider access to information, greater opportunities to travel and enormous potential to learn, but it is far less accepting of differences than earlier generations. Therefore, it is far more vulnerable to the hyperreality peddled by snake-oil salesmen. (Sophie Hunter is a French law graduate from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

For France, the Macron Honeymoon is over

"Yellow vest" protests spread to Reunion island

Emmanuel Macron refuses to slash fuel tax in France

Breaking News: French president Macron refuses to slash fuel tax

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead.

He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy.

Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final.

"This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here.

"My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced."

Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish.

In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead.

Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory.

"I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night.

"I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won."

Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy.

"It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too.

"It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team."

France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession.

"The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling.

"We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday. Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead. He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy. Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final. "This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here. "My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced." Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish. In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead. Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory. "I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night. "I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won." Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy. "It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too. "It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team." France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession. "The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling. "We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hails his Davis Cup dream team

Thousands demonstrate against sexual violence at Paris protest

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly.

Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic.

It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead.

Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy.

Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last.

The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down.

It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time.

Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday.

Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one.

Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail.

"We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said.

"We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow."

Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb.

"We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side.

"Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!"

It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two.

But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling.

From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set.

At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way.

French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5.

When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other.

Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5.

Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue.

They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format. On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic. It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead. Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy. Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last. The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down. It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time. Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday. Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one. Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail. "We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said. "We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow." Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb. "We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side. "Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!" It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two. But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling. From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set. At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way. French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5. When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other. Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5. Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue. They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

France stay alive in Davis Cup final after doubles win

Heightened security in France after man in yellow jacket threatens to explode grenade

French forces have "put out of action" some 30 Islamist militants, possibly including veteran Malian jihadist leader Amadou Koufa, during a raid in the central Mali region of Mopti, the army said on Friday.

The French army, which has about 4,500 troops in West Africa battling Islamist militants, did not specify whether the jihadists had all been killed or taken prisoner. The operation took place with air support on Thursday night, it said.

"At this stage of the evaluation of the operation, it appears that about 30 terrorists were put out of action," the army said in its statement, adding that Koufa and other prominent militants were probably among them.

Koufa, a radical preacher, inspired the Massina Liberation Front (MLF), a group blamed for a wave of attacks that has shifted Mali’s six-year-old Islamist insurgency from the remote desert north ever closer to its populous south.

French forces have "put out of action" some 30 Islamist militants, possibly including veteran Malian jihadist leader Amadou Koufa, during a raid in the central Mali region of Mopti, the army said on Friday.

French forces have "put out of action" some 30 Islamist militants, possibly including veteran Malian jihadist leader Amadou Koufa, during a raid in the central Mali region of Mopti, the army said on Friday. The French army, which has about 4,500 troops in West Africa battling Islamist militants, did not specify whether the jihadists had all been killed or taken prisoner. The operation took place with air support on Thursday night, it said. "At this stage of the evaluation of the operation, it appears that about 30 terrorists were put out of action," the army said in its statement, adding that Koufa and other prominent militants were probably among them. Koufa, a radical preacher, inspired the Massina Liberation Front (MLF), a group blamed for a wave of attacks that has shifted Mali’s six-year-old Islamist insurgency from the remote desert north ever closer to its populous south.

France says puts 30 jihadists 'out of action' in Mali

France fuel protests continue; Police fires tear gas

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mary-kom-wins-record-sixth-gold-medal-in-womens-world-championships-179144">Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships</a>

Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">Modi </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">linkens</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154"> farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule&nbsp;</a>

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-congress-lacks-a-stand-on-ayodhya-dispute-bjp-pitches-a-political-narrative-on-it-179142">As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it</a>

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-at-fuel-price-protesters-179140">French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters</a>

Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">United</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157"> States</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals".

Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday. She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal. Modi linkens farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule. As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6. French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France. Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against United States Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A French NGO called Sherpa has sought a clarification over the sale of 36 Rafale fighter jets to India and has filed a complaint with France's Financial Prosecutor's Office.&nbsp;

In a press release, published on its Facebook account, the NGO states that the complaint was filed on October 26&nbsp;"to clarify under which conditions 36 fighter aircraft produced by Dassault Aviation were sold to India in 2016 and the choice of its Indian partner, Reliance, a group led by a close partner of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi."

The complaint closely follows another complaint "lodged on the 4th of October 2018 by a former Indian Minister and an anti-corruption lawyer with the Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi."

The NGO, in its statement, informed that the complaint filed by the Indian minister was lodged against PM Modi for "abuse of authority" and " grant of undue advantages " in connection with the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

The release concluded by stating that the NGO expects the French Public Prosecutor's Office to "promptly investigate the seriousness of the facts and the presumptions on the reported offences."

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Sherpa, an NGO based in France, describes itself as an organisation with the "mission to protect and defend victims of economic crimes drawing on the power of the law and to fight against the new forms of impunity linked to globalization." It calls its motive to fight "economic crimes."

The Opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal, alleging that the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale.&nbsp;

The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries.&nbsp;

The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it. The Rafale deal row escalated when former French President Francois Hollande, while on a trip to India, said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name and that France had no role in the selection of Anil Ambani's company.

In an interview with news agency ANI, Dassault CEO Eric Trappier said, "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-i-dont-lie-we-chose-ambani-by-ourselves-says-dassault-ceo-trappier-177000">We chose Ambani by ourselves</a>. We already have 30 partners other than Reliance." 
&nbsp;

A French NGO called Sherpa has sought a clarification over the sale of 36 Rafale fighter jets to India and has filed a complaint with France's Financial Prosecutor's Office.

A French NGO called Sherpa has sought a clarification over the sale of 36 Rafale fighter jets to India and has filed a complaint with France's Financial Prosecutor's Office. In a press release, published on its Facebook account, the NGO states that the complaint was filed on October 26 "to clarify under which conditions 36 fighter aircraft produced by Dassault Aviation were sold to India in 2016 and the choice of its Indian partner, Reliance, a group led by a close partner of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi." The complaint closely follows another complaint "lodged on the 4th of October 2018 by a former Indian Minister and an anti-corruption lawyer with the Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi." The NGO, in its statement, informed that the complaint filed by the Indian minister was lodged against PM Modi for "abuse of authority" and " grant of undue advantages " in connection with the Rafale deal. The release concluded by stating that the NGO expects the French Public Prosecutor's Office to "promptly investigate the seriousness of the facts and the presumptions on the reported offences." × Sherpa, an NGO based in France, describes itself as an organisation with the "mission to protect and defend victims of economic crimes drawing on the power of the law and to fight against the new forms of impunity linked to globalization." It calls its motive to fight "economic crimes." The Opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal, alleging that the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale. The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries. The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it. The Rafale deal row escalated when former French President Francois Hollande, while on a trip to India, said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name and that France had no role in the selection of Anil Ambani's company. In an interview with news agency ANI, Dassault CEO Eric Trappier said, "We chose Ambani by ourselves. We already have 30 partners other than Reliance."

French NGO files complaint, seeks clarification on terms of Rafale deal 

France captain Yannick Noah sprang a surprise at Thursday's Davis Cup final draw ceremony when he named Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as his singles players for the opening day's action in Lille.

Already without the likes of Richard Gasquet and Gael Monfils for the final against Croatia, Noah decided to leave out Lucas Pouille, the top-ranked player in his squad.

World number 40 Chardy will open the tie on Friday against Croatia's Borna Coric with Tsonga then taking on Marin Cilic.

Cilic and Coric are ranked seventh and 12th respectively, making captain Zeljko Krajan's decision on his singles players a straightforward one.

"I'm a little surprised Jeremy (Chardy) plays," Cilic said at the draw ceremony. "I was expecting Lucas and Jo. They will have the opportunity to change on Sunday probably with Lucas entering in the place of Jeremy."

Tsonga, 259th in the ATP rankings, missed seven months of the year because of knee surgery and has played only 11 singles matches this year on the Tour.

He lost in the first round in his most recent tournaments, in Vienna and Paris.

Leaving out the 32nd-ranked Pouille is a potential gamble although the 33-year-old Tsonga, a former world number five, has a fine pedigree and a big-match character. He also played in last year's final when France beat Belgium.

He has lost five of his seven matches against Cilic, although they have played only once since 2015 and Tsonga won their last clash, nearly two years ago in Rotterdam.

Chardy, 31, has impressed Noah during practice and his 2-1 head-to-head record over Coric may have been a factor in his decision. He is 2-3 against Cilic.

"For the last two months I was looking at so many ways, so many options, so many players," Noah, bidding for a fourth Davis Cup title in his last match in charge, told reporters.

"I had to decide whether I was putting first their spirit, their involvement with the team, their recent results, their health, so there were a lot of things coming into play.

"After looking every day at what was happening, I thought the best thing for the team was to start on Friday with these two players."

Saturday's doubles will see home pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre Hugues-Herbert take on Mate Pavic and Ivan Dodig.

Sunday's reverse singles would see Tsonga face Coric in a possible deciding fifth rubber, although the captains are allowed to change their teams during the tie.

France are the defending champions and are trying to win the title for the 11th time, while Croatia are seeking to repeat their triumph of 2005 when they won the cup in Slovakia.

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan said Noah's selections had not taken him by surprise.

"I know he can sometimes take a joker out of his pocket," Krajan said. "It does not always work according to the ranking.

"I thought Chardy could be his joker this weekend. I hope it will not be as successful as usual in the Davis Cup."

The final, being played on clay inside the Stade Pierre Mauroy, which can hold 28,000 fans, is the last one before the century-old competition is revamped next year.

The 2019 competition will do away with the 'home and away' format after an opening qualification round and will culminate in an 18-nation finals week in Madrid in November.

"Playing here is special," said Noah. "It's a weekend that for many reasons is going to be historic."

France captain Yannick Noah sprang a surprise at Thursday's Davis Cup final draw ceremony when he named Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as his singles players for the opening day's action in Lille.

France captain Yannick Noah sprang a surprise at Thursday's Davis Cup final draw ceremony when he named Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as his singles players for the opening day's action in Lille. Already without the likes of Richard Gasquet and Gael Monfils for the final against Croatia, Noah decided to leave out Lucas Pouille, the top-ranked player in his squad. World number 40 Chardy will open the tie on Friday against Croatia's Borna Coric with Tsonga then taking on Marin Cilic. Cilic and Coric are ranked seventh and 12th respectively, making captain Zeljko Krajan's decision on his singles players a straightforward one. "I'm a little surprised Jeremy (Chardy) plays," Cilic said at the draw ceremony. "I was expecting Lucas and Jo. They will have the opportunity to change on Sunday probably with Lucas entering in the place of Jeremy." Tsonga, 259th in the ATP rankings, missed seven months of the year because of knee surgery and has played only 11 singles matches this year on the Tour. He lost in the first round in his most recent tournaments, in Vienna and Paris. Leaving out the 32nd-ranked Pouille is a potential gamble although the 33-year-old Tsonga, a former world number five, has a fine pedigree and a big-match character. He also played in last year's final when France beat Belgium. He has lost five of his seven matches against Cilic, although they have played only once since 2015 and Tsonga won their last clash, nearly two years ago in Rotterdam. Chardy, 31, has impressed Noah during practice and his 2-1 head-to-head record over Coric may have been a factor in his decision. He is 2-3 against Cilic. "For the last two months I was looking at so many ways, so many options, so many players," Noah, bidding for a fourth Davis Cup title in his last match in charge, told reporters. "I had to decide whether I was putting first their spirit, their involvement with the team, their recent results, their health, so there were a lot of things coming into play. "After looking every day at what was happening, I thought the best thing for the team was to start on Friday with these two players." Saturday's doubles will see home pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre Hugues-Herbert take on Mate Pavic and Ivan Dodig. Sunday's reverse singles would see Tsonga face Coric in a possible deciding fifth rubber, although the captains are allowed to change their teams during the tie. France are the defending champions and are trying to win the title for the 11th time, while Croatia are seeking to repeat their triumph of 2005 when they won the cup in Slovakia. Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan said Noah's selections had not taken him by surprise. "I know he can sometimes take a joker out of his pocket," Krajan said. "It does not always work according to the ranking. "I thought Chardy could be his joker this weekend. I hope it will not be as successful as usual in the Davis Cup." The final, being played on clay inside the Stade Pierre Mauroy, which can hold 28,000 fans, is the last one before the century-old competition is revamped next year. The 2019 competition will do away with the 'home and away' format after an opening qualification round and will culminate in an 18-nation finals week in Madrid in November. "Playing here is special," said Noah. "It's a weekend that for many reasons is going to be historic."

France go with Tsonga and Chardy in Davis Cup final singles

French international midfielder N'Golo Kante has committed his long-term future to Chelsea by signing a new five-year contract, the Premier League club said on Friday.

Kante, who joined Chelsea in 2016, helped the club win the title in his first season at Stamford Bridge and was rewarded for his consistent play by being named the player of the year by the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' Association.

"I'm happy to extend my time with Chelsea, it has been two beautiful years and I wish for more to come," the 27-year-old two-times Premier League winner said in a statement.

"Since I came, I completely improved as a player, challenged myself and got some awards I never thought about. I like the city, I like the club and I am happy to be here for more time."

Kante tasted his first Premier League title triumph with Leicester City in the 2015-16 season and also started all seven matches for France as they lifted the World Cup in Russia earlier this year.

French international midfielder N'Golo Kante has committed his long-term future to Chelsea by signing a new five-year contract, the Premier League club said on Friday.

French international midfielder N'Golo Kante has committed his long-term future to Chelsea by signing a new five-year contract, the Premier League club said on Friday. Kante, who joined Chelsea in 2016, helped the club win the title in his first season at Stamford Bridge and was rewarded for his consistent play by being named the player of the year by the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' Association. "I'm happy to extend my time with Chelsea, it has been two beautiful years and I wish for more to come," the 27-year-old two-times Premier League winner said in a statement. "Since I came, I completely improved as a player, challenged myself and got some awards I never thought about. I like the city, I like the club and I am happy to be here for more time." Kante tasted his first Premier League title triumph with Leicester City in the 2015-16 season and also started all seven matches for France as they lifted the World Cup in Russia earlier this year.

N'Golo Kante signs new five-year deal with Chelsea

Khashoggi's murder: France imposes travel ban on 18 Saudi citizens

The French foreign ministry said Thursday that it would impose sanctions against 18 Saudi citizens over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul last month.

"These measures... aim to prohibit these individuals from entering national territory and the entire Schengen area" of Europe, the ministry said in a statement.

Khashoggi, a US resident and Saudi citizen, was lured to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, killed and dismembered, according to Turkish prosecutors.

After lengthy denials, Saudi authorities admitted responsibility and said 21 people had been taken into custody.&nbsp;

However, a CIA analysis leaked to the US media went further, reportedly pointing the finger at the crown prince.

Earlier the United States had<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-saudi-arabia-says-crown-prince-salman-was-not-involved-5-others-face-death-penalty-for-the-murder-177533">&nbsp;imposed economic sanctions against</a>&nbsp;seventeen Saudi officials for their role in the killing of the Saudi journalist.

(With inputs from AFP)

The French foreign ministry said Thursday that it would impose sanctions against 18 Saudi citizens over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul last month.

The French foreign ministry said Thursday that it would impose sanctions against 18 Saudi citizens over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul last month. "These measures... aim to prohibit these individuals from entering national territory and the entire Schengen area" of Europe, the ministry said in a statement. Khashoggi, a US resident and Saudi citizen, was lured to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, killed and dismembered, according to Turkish prosecutors. After lengthy denials, Saudi authorities admitted responsibility and said 21 people had been taken into custody. However, a CIA analysis leaked to the US media went further, reportedly pointing the finger at the crown prince. Earlier the United States had imposed economic sanctions against seventeen Saudi officials for their role in the killing of the Saudi journalist. (With inputs from AFP)

France imposes sanctions against 18 Saudis over Khashoggi murder

Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list

More than 400 people were hurt, 14 seriously, in a day and night of "yellow vest" fuel price protests around France that claimed one life, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on Sunday.

The injury toll, more than double the last tally provided on Saturday, followed a "restive" night in 87 locations around the country where protesters had blocked roads to express their anger at a series of hikes in petrol tax.&nbsp;

The injured, 409 in total, included 28 members of the police, military police, and fire brigade.&nbsp;

Castaner told RTL radio about 288,000 people had taken part in Saturday's protests at 2,034 locations countrywide. About 3,500 stayed out overnight, he added.&nbsp;

Police questioned 282 protesters in total, 73 during the night, of which 157 were taken into custody.&nbsp;

"Last night was restive... There were assaults, fights, stabbings," Castaner said. "There were fights among 'yellow vest' protesters. There was a lot of alcohol at certain venues, which led to this idiotic behaviour."&nbsp;

Protest organisers have called for the continuation of demonstrations Sunday at about 150 locations countrywide, the minister added.&nbsp;

On Saturday, groups blocked roundabouts, major highways and thoroughfares to express anger over tax rises on fuel, arguing it has shrunk personal spending power under President Emmanuel Macron.

Tempers flared at times as some drivers confronted the protesters or tried to force their way through the barricades.

In the eastern Savoie region, a woman trying to get her daughter to a doctor panicked after protesters surrounded their car and banged on the roof, accelerating into the crowd and killing a 63-year-old woman.

The protesters are nicknamed "yellow vests" for the high-visibility jackets they wear.

More than 400 people were hurt, 14 seriously, in a day and night of "yellow vest" fuel price protests around France that claimed one life, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on Sunday.

More than 400 people were hurt, 14 seriously, in a day and night of "yellow vest" fuel price protests around France that claimed one life, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on Sunday. The injury toll, more than double the last tally provided on Saturday, followed a "restive" night in 87 locations around the country where protesters had blocked roads to express their anger at a series of hikes in petrol tax. The injured, 409 in total, included 28 members of the police, military police, and fire brigade. Castaner told RTL radio about 288,000 people had taken part in Saturday's protests at 2,034 locations countrywide. About 3,500 stayed out overnight, he added. Police questioned 282 protesters in total, 73 during the night, of which 157 were taken into custody. "Last night was restive... There were assaults, fights, stabbings," Castaner said. "There were fights among 'yellow vest' protesters. There was a lot of alcohol at certain venues, which led to this idiotic behaviour." Protest organisers have called for the continuation of demonstrations Sunday at about 150 locations countrywide, the minister added. On Saturday, groups blocked roundabouts, major highways and thoroughfares to express anger over tax rises on fuel, arguing it has shrunk personal spending power under President Emmanuel Macron. Tempers flared at times as some drivers confronted the protesters or tried to force their way through the barricades. In the eastern Savoie region, a woman trying to get her daughter to a doctor panicked after protesters surrounded their car and banged on the roof, accelerating into the crowd and killing a 63-year-old woman. The protesters are nicknamed "yellow vests" for the high-visibility jackets they wear.

More than 400 hurt in French fuel price protests: Minister

Protester killed in accident during French road blockades

A motorist accidentally hit and killed a protester taking part in a campaign of road blockades across France on Saturday, as thousands gathered on motorways in a backlash against higher fuel taxes.

The demonstrators, part of a grassroots movement dubbed the "yellow vests", caused logjams on highways and blocked roundabouts as they railed against the fuel tax hikes introduced by President Emmanuel Macron.

The protests, largely orchestrated on social media and which aimed to prevent road access to some fuel depots and airports, have also drawn broader support from some voters dissatisfied with Macron's economic reforms and his governing style.

At a blockade on a road in the southeastern department of Savoie, a driver panicked when protesters surrounded her car and she accelerated, hitting and killing a woman demonstrator, French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said in televised comments.

Sixteen people were lightly injured in other accidents across the country, and a person run over by a car in northern France was in a critical state, according to the interior ministry, which estimated some 50,000 demonstrators were participating in Saturday's protests.

Some incidents occurred as drivers not taking part tried to get around the blockades, police sources said.

FLASHPOINTS

Protesters gathered at sensitive flashpoints including the entry to a tunnel under the Mont-Blanc mountain in the Alps, and traffic was backed up on several highways.

Demonstrators were also on the march in cities, including Marseille where around 100 people, wearing the high visibility vests drivers keep in their cars, blocked roads around its port.

The backlash is the latest confrontation between Macron and voters, mostly based in the countryside and provincial towns and cities, who view the former investment banker as the representative of a remote urban elite.

During his 18 months in power, Macron, 40, has often pushed through reforms, including an overhaul of indebted state rail operator SNCF, in the face of opposition from labour unions.

But the "yellow vest" movement has snowballed swiftly over the past month, catching Macron and even opposition parties off guard. It has already prompted a rare concession from the government, which announced last Wednesday fresh funds to help motorists on the lowest incomes.

The higher fuel taxes were approved in late 2017 but started to bite as oil prices surged in October, even though they have since eased off somewhat.

The diesel tax increases are designed to encourage drivers to switch to more environmentally-friendly cars.

A motorist accidentally hit and killed a protester taking part in a campaign of road blockades across France on Saturday, as thousands gathered on motorways in a backlash against higher fuel taxes.

A motorist accidentally hit and killed a protester taking part in a campaign of road blockades across France on Saturday, as thousands gathered on motorways in a backlash against higher fuel taxes. The demonstrators, part of a grassroots movement dubbed the "yellow vests", caused logjams on highways and blocked roundabouts as they railed against the fuel tax hikes introduced by President Emmanuel Macron. The protests, largely orchestrated on social media and which aimed to prevent road access to some fuel depots and airports, have also drawn broader support from some voters dissatisfied with Macron's economic reforms and his governing style. At a blockade on a road in the southeastern department of Savoie, a driver panicked when protesters surrounded her car and she accelerated, hitting and killing a woman demonstrator, French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said in televised comments. Sixteen people were lightly injured in other accidents across the country, and a person run over by a car in northern France was in a critical state, according to the interior ministry, which estimated some 50,000 demonstrators were participating in Saturday's protests. Some incidents occurred as drivers not taking part tried to get around the blockades, police sources said. FLASHPOINTS Protesters gathered at sensitive flashpoints including the entry to a tunnel under the Mont-Blanc mountain in the Alps, and traffic was backed up on several highways. Demonstrators were also on the march in cities, including Marseille where around 100 people, wearing the high visibility vests drivers keep in their cars, blocked roads around its port. The backlash is the latest confrontation between Macron and voters, mostly based in the countryside and provincial towns and cities, who view the former investment banker as the representative of a remote urban elite. During his 18 months in power, Macron, 40, has often pushed through reforms, including an overhaul of indebted state rail operator SNCF, in the face of opposition from labour unions. But the "yellow vest" movement has snowballed swiftly over the past month, catching Macron and even opposition parties off guard. It has already prompted a rare concession from the government, which announced last Wednesday fresh funds to help motorists on the lowest incomes. The higher fuel taxes were approved in late 2017 but started to bite as oil prices surged in October, even though they have since eased off somewhat. The diesel tax increases are designed to encourage drivers to switch to more environmentally-friendly cars.

French protesters block roads over higher fuel taxes, one dead in accident

A French government spokesperson slammed US President Donald Trump on Wednesday for his lack of "common decency".&nbsp;

Asked to react to Trump's tweets mocking Macron, spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told reporters: "Yesterday was November 13 when we commemorate the murder of 130 citizens three years ago in Paris and Saint-Denis. So I will reply in English: 'common decency' would have been the appropriate thing."

Trump had on Tuesday launched into a massive Twitter tirade against French President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;

During his tirade, Trump got upset with Macron's suggestion that Europe raise its own army to protect itself from Russia, China, and the US (yes, you read that right); he (sort of) threatened tariffs against French wine; he said Macron suffers from low approval ratings; and that France suffers from a high unemployment rate. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump ended with the words "MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN".&nbsp;

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Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One &amp; Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062311785787744256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062331024426913792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333534214520832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333534214520832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333882610171907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Trump had been irked by Macron's rubbishing of nationalism — the French president said "nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism" — and Trump's America First policy on Sunday during the commemoration of a 100 years of the end of World War I in Paris.&nbsp;

Trump had been one of the guests at the commemoration.&nbsp;

Macron told CNN in an interview after talks with Trump on Saturday that the defence row (the European Army) had been cleared up. He has not reacted publicly to Trump's latest broadside.

One of Macron's advisers on Tuesday dismissed the tweets as "written for Americans" and said that relations between Trump and Macron were "not always easy but are enduring".

(With inputs from AFP)

A French government spokesperson slammed US President Donald Trump on Wednesday for his lack of "common decency". Asked to react to Trump's tweets mocking Macron, spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told reporters: "Yesterday was November 13 when we commemorate the murder of 130 citizens three years ago in Paris and Saint-Denis.

A French government spokesperson slammed US President Donald Trump on Wednesday for his lack of "common decency". Asked to react to Trump's tweets mocking Macron, spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told reporters: "Yesterday was November 13 when we commemorate the murder of 130 citizens three years ago in Paris and Saint-Denis. So I will reply in English: 'common decency' would have been the appropriate thing." Trump had on Tuesday launched into a massive Twitter tirade against French President Emmanuel Macron. During his tirade, Trump got upset with Macron's suggestion that Europe raise its own army to protect itself from Russia, China, and the US (yes, you read that right); he (sort of) threatened tariffs against French wine; he said Macron suffers from low approval ratings; and that France suffers from a high unemployment rate. Trump ended with the words "MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN". Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One & Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........ — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........ — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × ......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × Trump had been irked by Macron's rubbishing of nationalism — the French president said "nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism" — and Trump's America First policy on Sunday during the commemoration of a 100 years of the end of World War I in Paris. Trump had been one of the guests at the commemoration. Macron told CNN in an interview after talks with Trump on Saturday that the defence row (the European Army) had been cleared up. He has not reacted publicly to Trump's latest broadside. One of Macron's advisers on Tuesday dismissed the tweets as "written for Americans" and said that relations between Trump and Macron were "not always easy but are enduring". (With inputs from AFP)

France slams Trump for his lack of 'common decency'

France's smart regulation of Facebook to combat hate speech

On November 13, 2015, two explosions were heard near the Stade de France where a France-Germany friendly football match was being played, with President Francois Hollande in attendance.

A series of coordinated terrorist attacks, followed by several mass shootings and a suicide bombing, took place in Paris, killing 130 people and injuring around 413 people.

Today, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe laid a wreath at the stadium to mark the third anniversary of that terrible event.&nbsp;

The wreath was laid at the memorial plaque for 63-year-old chauffeur Manuel Dias, who died outside the stadium when caught in the blast from a suicide bomber.

Many would not know that how French footballer Antoine Greizmann and his sister escaped the tragedy.

Greizmann was playing at Stade de France during the time of explosions.

After two explosions&nbsp;near the stadium, gunmen carried out another mass shooting and took hostages at an Eagles of Death Metal concert in the Bataclan theatre.

The attackers were shot or blew themselves up when police raided the theatre.

However, there were survivors and Greizmann's sister was one of&nbsp;them in the&nbsp;theatre.

Greizmann had later tweeted, "Thank God my sister was able to get out of the Bataclan alive. All my prayers go out to the victims and their families. #LongliveFrance"

The attacks are considered the deadliest in France since the Second World War and the second deadliest in Western Europe after the Madrid train bombings in 2004.

The match between France and Germany continued until the end but panic broke out in the crowd as rumours of the attack spread, and spectators were held in the stadium and assembled spontaneously on the pitch. After the match, police guided supporters outside the stadium.

Responsibility for the killings was claimed by Islamic State, which had called on its followers to attack France due to its involvement in the fight against IS in Iraq and Syria.

On November 13, 2015, two explosions were heard near the Stade de France where a France-Germany friendly football match was being played, with President Francois Hollande in attendance.

On November 13, 2015, two explosions were heard near the Stade de France where a France-Germany friendly football match was being played, with President Francois Hollande in attendance. A series of coordinated terrorist attacks, followed by several mass shootings and a suicide bombing, took place in Paris, killing 130 people and injuring around 413 people. Today, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe laid a wreath at the stadium to mark the third anniversary of that terrible event. The wreath was laid at the memorial plaque for 63-year-old chauffeur Manuel Dias, who died outside the stadium when caught in the blast from a suicide bomber. Many would not know that how French footballer Antoine Greizmann and his sister escaped the tragedy. Greizmann was playing at Stade de France during the time of explosions. After two explosions near the stadium, gunmen carried out another mass shooting and took hostages at an Eagles of Death Metal concert in the Bataclan theatre. The attackers were shot or blew themselves up when police raided the theatre. However, there were survivors and Greizmann's sister was one of them in the theatre. Greizmann had later tweeted, "Thank God my sister was able to get out of the Bataclan alive. All my prayers go out to the victims and their families. #LongliveFrance" The attacks are considered the deadliest in France since the Second World War and the second deadliest in Western Europe after the Madrid train bombings in 2004. The match between France and Germany continued until the end but panic broke out in the crowd as rumours of the attack spread, and spectators were held in the stadium and assembled spontaneously on the pitch. After the match, police guided supporters outside the stadium. Responsibility for the killings was claimed by Islamic State, which had called on its followers to attack France due to its involvement in the fight against IS in Iraq and Syria.

How Antoine Greizmann and his sister escaped the Paris attacks

Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/with-trump-sitting-nearby-macron-calls-nationalism-betrayal-176693">attack on Emmanuel Macron</a>, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary.

In a caustic series of early-morning tweets the US president lambasted Macron's support for a European army, while renewing his frequent charge that America's European allies in NATO spend too little on defence.

"Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the US, China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One &amp; Two - How did that work out for France?" Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

"They were starting to learn German in Paris before the US&nbsp;came along," Trump said, in a low blow sure to gall French allies. "Pay for NATO or not!"

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Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One &amp; Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062311785787744256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062331024426913792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333534214520832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1062333882610171907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The fierce broadside against a traditional US ally -- for whom Trump rolled out the red carpet in Washington earlier this year -- came just two days after Trump joined dozens of world leaders in Paris for events to mark the 100 years since the end of the Great War.&nbsp;

After slamming Macron on defence, Trump's went on to attack his standing as president: "The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%."

"He was just trying to get onto another subject," Trump said, appearing to reference Macron's push for a European military. "By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!"&nbsp;

"MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!" the mercurial Trump continued in a play on his own campaign slogan, before turning to what he said were protectionist tariffs on wine -- which he said were "not fair, must change!"

Macron's office declined to comment on Trump's broadside.

'Bromance' dead?&nbsp;

Trump and Macron had seemed to share a special camaraderie in the early days of their respective presidencies, a "bromance" of sorts that included touching, kissing and playful banter.

The US president even seemed to flick a piece of dandruff off of Macron's jacket on national television during the French president's state visit to the US capital, saying "we have to make him perfect. He is perfect."

But the relationship took a turn for the worse after Macron angered Trump by saying Europe needed its own army and listing the US along with Russia and China as a threat to European cybersecurity.

Trump set a combative tone for his visit to Paris, tweeted right after he landed that Macron's call for a "real European army" was "insulting."

In an interview recorded Saturday with CNN after talks with Trump, Macron said the two leaders had spoken about what his office has portrayed as a misunderstanding.

Both leaders agree there should be "better burden-sharing within NATO," meaning Europe should be less reliant on US spending for its defense, Macron said.

But Macron told CNN: "To be very direct with you, what I don't want to see is European countries increasing the budget in defence in order to buy American and other arms or materials coming from your industry."

The president's trip to France was further clouded by controversy over the cancellation of a visit to a World War I US military cemetery -- after his helicopter was grounded by the rain -- a decision that was widely criticized.

"I suggested driving. Secret Service said NO," Trump tweeted in his defence -- pointing out that he had delivered a speech the following day at another American cemetery in the Paris suburbs "in pouring rain!"&nbsp;

"Little reported-Fake News!" he charged.

Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary attack on Emmanuel Macron, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary.

Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed an extraordinary attack on Emmanuel Macron, mocking the French president's approval rating and lashing him over European defence proposals, on the heels of a rocky trip to Paris to mark the World War I centenary. In a caustic series of early-morning tweets the US president lambasted Macron's support for a European army, while renewing his frequent charge that America's European allies in NATO spend too little on defence. "Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the US, China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One & Two - How did that work out for France?" Trump tweeted. "They were starting to learn German in Paris before the US came along," Trump said, in a low blow sure to gall French allies. "Pay for NATO or not!" Emmanuel Macron suggests building its own army to protect Europe against the U.S., China and Russia. But it was Germany in World Wars One & Two - How did that work out for France? They were starting to learn German in Paris before the U.S. came along. Pay for NATO or not! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × On Trade, France makes excellent wine, but so does the U.S. The problem is that France makes it very hard for the U.S. to sell its wines into France, and charges big Tariffs, whereas the U.S. makes it easy for French wines, and charges very small Tariffs. Not fair, must change! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%. He was just trying to get onto another subject. By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!........ — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × ......MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018 × The fierce broadside against a traditional US ally -- for whom Trump rolled out the red carpet in Washington earlier this year -- came just two days after Trump joined dozens of world leaders in Paris for events to mark the 100 years since the end of the Great War. After slamming Macron on defence, Trump's went on to attack his standing as president: "The problem is that Emmanuel suffers from a very low Approval Rating in France, 26%, and an unemployment rate of almost 10%." "He was just trying to get onto another subject," Trump said, appearing to reference Macron's push for a European military. "By the way, there is no country more Nationalist than France, very proud people-and rightfully so!" "MAKE FRANCE GREAT AGAIN!" the mercurial Trump continued in a play on his own campaign slogan, before turning to what he said were protectionist tariffs on wine -- which he said were "not fair, must change!" Macron's office declined to comment on Trump's broadside. 'Bromance' dead? Trump and Macron had seemed to share a special camaraderie in the early days of their respective presidencies, a "bromance" of sorts that included touching, kissing and playful banter. The US president even seemed to flick a piece of dandruff off of Macron's jacket on national television during the French president's state visit to the US capital, saying "we have to make him perfect. He is perfect." But the relationship took a turn for the worse after Macron angered Trump by saying Europe needed its own army and listing the US along with Russia and China as a threat to European cybersecurity. Trump set a combative tone for his visit to Paris, tweeted right after he landed that Macron's call for a "real European army" was "insulting." In an interview recorded Saturday with CNN after talks with Trump, Macron said the two leaders had spoken about what his office has portrayed as a misunderstanding. Both leaders agree there should be "better burden-sharing within NATO," meaning Europe should be less reliant on US spending for its defense, Macron said. But Macron told CNN: "To be very direct with you, what I don't want to see is European countries increasing the budget in defence in order to buy American and other arms or materials coming from your industry." The president's trip to France was further clouded by controversy over the cancellation of a visit to a World War I US military cemetery -- after his helicopter was grounded by the rain -- a decision that was widely criticized. "I suggested driving. Secret Service said NO," Trump tweeted in his defence -- pointing out that he had delivered a speech the following day at another American cemetery in the Paris suburbs "in pouring rain!" "Little reported-Fake News!" he charged.

After Macron rubbishes nationalism, Trump goes on massive Twitter tirade against him

WION Dispatch: Donald Trump slams Macron over European army comment

Former France international Franck Ribery allegedly slapped French television pundit Patrick Guillou after Bayern Munich's 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Bild newspaper reported on Sunday.

Saturday's loss at the Signal Iduna Park left the German champions struggling in fifth place in the table, seven points behind unbeaten Dortmund who sit at the top of the Bundesliga.

Bild quoted witnesses saying the row took place between Ribery and Guillou, who works for the BeIN Sport channel, on Bayern's team bus following the match.

The accounts say 35-year-old Ribery hit Guillou three times in the face before pushing him in his chest.

The paper said Bayern's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic confirmed the incident.

"Franck Ribery informed us of an altercation with his countryman Patrick Guillou, whom he has known for many years. We have agreed to meet in person to discuss how to put this affair to bed," he said.

The tabloid said Ribery, who is yet to score in 15 games this season, was angered by Guillou's negative comments during the match.&nbsp;

Ribery's wife Wahiba had sent the winger a message on Instagram saying Guillou was "very tiring and useless".

Former France international Franck Ribery allegedly slapped French television pundit Patrick Guillou after Bayern Munich's 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Bild newspaper reported on Sunday.

Former France international Franck Ribery allegedly slapped French television pundit Patrick Guillou after Bayern Munich's 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Bild newspaper reported on Sunday. Saturday's loss at the Signal Iduna Park left the German champions struggling in fifth place in the table, seven points behind unbeaten Dortmund who sit at the top of the Bundesliga. Bild quoted witnesses saying the row took place between Ribery and Guillou, who works for the BeIN Sport channel, on Bayern's team bus following the match. The accounts say 35-year-old Ribery hit Guillou three times in the face before pushing him in his chest. The paper said Bayern's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic confirmed the incident. "Franck Ribery informed us of an altercation with his countryman Patrick Guillou, whom he has known for many years. We have agreed to meet in person to discuss how to put this affair to bed," he said. The tabloid said Ribery, who is yet to score in 15 games this season, was angered by Guillou's negative comments during the match. Ribery's wife Wahiba had sent the winger a message on Instagram saying Guillou was "very tiring and useless".

Franck Ribery slaps TV pundit after Bayern defeat: Reports

French president Marcon warns against dangers of nationalism

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