France is beefing up its presence in New Caledonia. Police reinforcements have arrived in the archipelago. Still, French representatives have declared that parts of the territory are "out of state control". Is France losing control of its overseas territory?

Gravitas | Is France losing control over New Caledonia?

French police fatally shot an armed man who was trying to set fire to a synagogue in the northern city of Rouen, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (May 17).

"National police in Rouen neutralised early this morning an armed individual who clearly wanted to set fire to the city's synagogue," Darmanin wrote on X.

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Incendier une synagogue, c'est vouloir intimider tous les Juifs. 
 
Une nouvelle fois, on veut faire peser un climat de terreur sur les Juifs de notre pays. 
 
Combattre l'antisémitisme, c'est défendre la République. 
 
Merci aux forces de l'ordre pour leur intervention rapide. <a href="https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA">https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA</a>
— Yonathan Arfi (@Yonathan_Arfi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yonathan_Arfi/status/1791367010229621161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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According to a&nbsp;source, the man was armed with a knife and an iron bar, he approached police, who then fired. The individual died, as reported by AFP.

France has the largest Jewish community of a country after Israel and the United States, as well as Europe's largest Muslim community.

Police responded at 6:45 am (0445 GMT) to reports of "fire near the synagogue", a police source said.

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"It is not only the Jewish community that is affected. It is the entire city of Rouen that is bruised and in shock," Rouen Mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol wrote on X.

He said there were no victims other than the attacker.&nbsp;

Notably, two separate investigations have been launched, one into the synagogue fire and another into the circumstances surrounding the death of the man shot by the police, according to Rouen prosecutors.

An investigation by France's police inspectorate general is standard procedure whenever a person is killed by the police.&nbsp;

The man had threatened a police officer with a knife, prompting the officer to use his service weapon, the Rouen prosecutor stated.

The dead man was not immediately identified, a police source said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-south-africa-alleges-israel-stepping-up-genocide-in-gaza-tel-aviv-slams-biased-and-false-claims-722456">At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel is 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza</a>

There have been tensions in France in the wake of the October 7 attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel, followed by the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip.

"Attempting to burn a synagogue is an attempt to intimidate all Jews. Once again, there is an attempt to impose a climate of terror on the Jews of our country. Combating anti-Semitism means defending the Republic," Yonathan Arfi, the president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF) wrote on X.

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Incendier une synagogue, c'est vouloir intimider tous les Juifs. 
 
Une nouvelle fois, on veut faire peser un climat de terreur sur les Juifs de notre pays. 
 
Combattre l'antisémitisme, c'est défendre la République. 
 
Merci aux forces de l'ordre pour leur intervention rapide. <a href="https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA">https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA</a>
— Yonathan Arfi (@Yonathan_Arfi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yonathan_Arfi/status/1791367010229621161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile the authorities are also grappling with the worst violence in decades in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia.

(With inputs from agencies)

French police fatally shot an armed man who was trying to set fire to a synagogue in the northern city of Rouen, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (May 17).

French police fatally shot an armed man who was trying to set fire to a synagogue in the northern city of Rouen, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Friday (May 17). "National police in Rouen neutralised early this morning an armed individual who clearly wanted to set fire to the city's synagogue," Darmanin wrote on X. Incendier une synagogue, c'est vouloir intimider tous les Juifs. Une nouvelle fois, on veut faire peser un climat de terreur sur les Juifs de notre pays. Combattre l'antisémitisme, c'est défendre la République. Merci aux forces de l'ordre pour leur intervention rapide. https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA — Yonathan Arfi (@Yonathan_Arfi) May 17, 2024 × According to a source, the man was armed with a knife and an iron bar, he approached police, who then fired. The individual died, as reported by AFP. France has the largest Jewish community of a country after Israel and the United States, as well as Europe's largest Muslim community. Police responded at 6:45 am (0445 GMT) to reports of "fire near the synagogue", a police source said. Also read: Torrential rains kill 4 in Houston, over 900,000 without power "It is not only the Jewish community that is affected. It is the entire city of Rouen that is bruised and in shock," Rouen Mayor Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol wrote on X. He said there were no victims other than the attacker. Notably, two separate investigations have been launched, one into the synagogue fire and another into the circumstances surrounding the death of the man shot by the police, according to Rouen prosecutors. An investigation by France's police inspectorate general is standard procedure whenever a person is killed by the police. The man had threatened a police officer with a knife, prompting the officer to use his service weapon, the Rouen prosecutor stated. The dead man was not immediately identified, a police source said. Also read: At ICJ, South Africa alleges Israel is 'stepping up' genocide in Gaza There have been tensions in France in the wake of the October 7 attack by Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel, followed by the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip. "Attempting to burn a synagogue is an attempt to intimidate all Jews. Once again, there is an attempt to impose a climate of terror on the Jews of our country. Combating anti-Semitism means defending the Republic," Yonathan Arfi, the president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF) wrote on X. Incendier une synagogue, c'est vouloir intimider tous les Juifs. Une nouvelle fois, on veut faire peser un climat de terreur sur les Juifs de notre pays. Combattre l'antisémitisme, c'est défendre la République. Merci aux forces de l'ordre pour leur intervention rapide. https://t.co/3Dxoy7g1qA — Yonathan Arfi (@Yonathan_Arfi) May 17, 2024 × Meanwhile the authorities are also grappling with the worst violence in decades in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. (With inputs from agencies)

Police kill man trying to burn down synagogue in France

French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal signed a decree on Wednesday (May 15) declaring a state of emergency in New Caledonia as violence erupted there over electoral reforms, resulting in the deaths of three indigenous Kanak youths and a Police official.

New Caledonia protest: France sends troop to diffuse unrest

A state of emergency has been imposed in New Caledonia. For the last few days, the archipelago had been reeling with chaos and violence. At least four have died, more than 300 have been injured. Why is all of this happening? Here's all you need to know.

Gravitas: Emergency in New Caledonia explained

France New Caledonia Emergency:&nbsp;French Prime Minister&nbsp;Gabriel Attal signed a decree&nbsp;on Wednesday (May 15) declaring a state of emergency in New Caledonia as violence erupted there over electoral reforms, resulting in the deaths of three indigenous Kanak youths and a police official.&nbsp;"No violence will be tolerated," said PM Attal&nbsp;and added that measure "will allow us to roll out massive means to restore order."

The unrest stemmed from a new bill granting voting rights to French residents residing in the Pacific island for a decade. The indigenous Kanak people, the original inhabitants of New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in the Pacific, are fearful that the reforms will dilute the balance of power for them. With a heavy police presence and a ban on gatherings, the government is vying to restore order amid escalating tensions and looting.

<h2>France New Caledonia Emergency</h2>

Following the Assemblée Nationale's (lower house of French Parliament) affirmative vote on Wednesday (May 15), the constitutional reform concerning the electorate in the French overseas territory is set to proceed to the next stage of legislation. The government's proposed legislation was previously endorsed&nbsp;by the French Senate (upper house) on&nbsp;2 April.&nbsp;

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In the lower house, the new bill garnered 351 votes in favour and 153 against. Reports had said that a joint sitting of both Houses could be held over the new bill as early as 27 May. The move has sparked opposition from the pro-independence movement in the territory. They are expressing concerns that the new bill will lead to potential electoral marginalisation of the Kanak community.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-hunt-killers-in-prison-van-ambush-721896">French police hunt killers in prison van ambush</a>

The rioting resulted in the killing of a 24-year-old police official who succumbed to injuries in a gunshot.

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Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said, "He took off his helmet (to speak to residents) and he was shot right in the head."&nbsp;

<h2>France's overseas territory&nbsp;</h2>

In 1853, France annexed New Caledonia during the colonial era when European powers were expanding their territories around the world.&nbsp;France claimed New Caledonia, and established it as a French penal colony in 1864. In 1946, New Caledonia became an overseas territory of France.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

France New Caledonia Emergency: French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal signed a decree on Wednesday (May 15) declaring a state of emergency in New Caledonia as violence erupted there over electoral reforms, resulting in the deaths of three indigenous Kanak youths and a police official.

France New Caledonia Emergency: French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal signed a decree on Wednesday (May 15) declaring a state of emergency in New Caledonia as violence erupted there over electoral reforms, resulting in the deaths of three indigenous Kanak youths and a police official. "No violence will be tolerated," said PM Attal and added that measure "will allow us to roll out massive means to restore order." The unrest stemmed from a new bill granting voting rights to French residents residing in the Pacific island for a decade. The indigenous Kanak people, the original inhabitants of New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in the Pacific, are fearful that the reforms will dilute the balance of power for them. With a heavy police presence and a ban on gatherings, the government is vying to restore order amid escalating tensions and looting. France New Caledonia Emergency Following the Assemblée Nationale's (lower house of French Parliament) affirmative vote on Wednesday (May 15), the constitutional reform concerning the electorate in the French overseas territory is set to proceed to the next stage of legislation. The government's proposed legislation was previously endorsed by the French Senate (upper house) on 2 April. Also Read | Putin arrives in China in first overseas trip since Russia re-elects him in March In the lower house, the new bill garnered 351 votes in favour and 153 against. Reports had said that a joint sitting of both Houses could be held over the new bill as early as 27 May. The move has sparked opposition from the pro-independence movement in the territory. They are expressing concerns that the new bill will lead to potential electoral marginalisation of the Kanak community. Also Read | French police hunt killers in prison van ambush The rioting resulted in the killing of a 24-year-old police official who succumbed to injuries in a gunshot. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia unleashes new attacks on Ukraine's Kherson × Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said, "He took off his helmet (to speak to residents) and he was shot right in the head." France's overseas territory In 1853, France annexed New Caledonia during the colonial era when European powers were expanding their territories around the world. France claimed New Caledonia, and established it as a French penal colony in 1864. In 1946, New Caledonia became an overseas territory of France. (With inputs from agencies)

France Emergency: French PM declares state of emergency in New Caledonia as four killed in riots

New Caledonia: Clashes continue in French overseas territory, France sends troop to diffuse unrest

Watch top headlines of the hour: - New Caledonia: France sends troops - Xi & Putin condemn US - UK to ban gender identity teaching - Microsoft asks some China staff to relocate - Toshiba to cut up to 4,000 jobs in Japan

New Caledonia: France send troops | Xi & Putin condemn US

French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal signed a decree on Wednesday (May 15) declaring a state of emergency in New Caledonia as violence erupted there over electoral reforms, resulting in the deaths of three indigenous Kanak youths and a police official.

France: Why is New Caledonia roiled by violence? | Four dead in riots

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued.

The killings and dramatic getaway by the perpetrators have shocked&nbsp;France, with authorities under pressure to catch those responsible, who all remain at large.

More than 450 police officers and gendarmes had been mobilised from Tuesday for the search in the northern department of Eure where the attack took place, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said.

Global police body Interpol also issued a red notice, at the request of&nbsp;France, which asks law enforcement worldwide to locate and apprehend Mohamed Amra, the convict who escaped in the attack and is reportedly known as "The Fly".

"We have put a lot of resources into finding not only the person who escaped" but also "the gang that released him under such despicable circumstances", Darmanin told the RTL broadcaster.&nbsp;

"We are making a lot of progress," he added. Apparently raising the possibility the fugitives could have fled abroad, he also spoke of "international cooperation".

But over a day after the attack, there was still no sign of them being found.

Coordinated attack&nbsp;

Two prison officers were killed in the attack and three others wounded, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said late on Tuesday.

One of the injured men was fighting for his life in hospital and two more were receiving critical care, she said.

The incident took place late on Tuesday morning at a road toll in Incarville in Eure.

The prosecutor said the prison van was rammed head-on by a stolen Peugeot vehicle as it went through the toll crossing.

But the van and another vehicle in the prison convoy were also followed by an Audi.

Gunmen emerged from the two cars and shot at both prison vehicles.

French television channels broadcast footage of the attack taken by surveillance cameras at the toll, showing the Peugeot colliding head on with the prison van.

In the video, several gunmen dressed in black emerge from both attack vehicles. A firefight ensues and one man appears to be guided away from the van by the gunmen.&nbsp;

A vehicle believed to have been used by the attackers was later found as a burned-out wreck at a different location.&nbsp;

The prison officers who died, Fabrice Moello, 52, and Arnaud Garcia, 34, were the first to be killed in the line of duty since 1992.

'On verge of explosion'&nbsp;

Prison officer unions announced a day of minimum service on Wednesday and asked for urgent measures to improve the safety of staff.

On Wednesday, officers across the country held a minute of silence outside their prisons to remember the fallen colleagues.

"We are in mourning," Vanessa Lefaivre, of the FO union at the Fleury-Merogis prison outside Paris, told AFP.&nbsp;

"We would never have imagined that prison staff would be killed like this."

Officers blocked entrances to the prison in an action unions warned could be renewed, with some burning tyres and brandishing slogans like&nbsp;"Prison is on the verge of explosion".

Prosecutor Beccuau said Amra, 30, had last week been convicted of aggravated robbery and charged in a case of abduction leading to death.

A source close to the case said Amra was suspected of involvement in drug trafficking and of ordering gangland killings.

Another source said he is suspected of being at the head of a criminal network.

His lawyer Hugues Vigier said Amra had already made an escape attempt at the weekend by sawing the bars of his cell and said he was shocked by the "inexcusable" and "insane" violence.

Law and order is a major issue in French politics ahead of next month's European elections and the prison van ambush sparked fierce reactions from politicians, especially the far right.

The incident came on the same day as the French Senate published a damning report warning that government measures had been unable to prevent the flourishing of the narcotics industry in&nbsp;France.

"Narco-banditry kills many people, much more than terrorism," said Darmanin, also pointing to the responsibility of drug users.

"One cannot at the same time cry for the widows and orphans of the Eure toll booth attack and then smoke a joint... this is called schizophrenia."

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued.

French authorities on Wednesday were hunting for a group of gunmen who killed two prison officers in an attack at a motorway toll that freed a convict linked to gangland drug killings, with an international alert also issued. The killings and dramatic getaway by the perpetrators have shocked France, with authorities under pressure to catch those responsible, who all remain at large. More than 450 police officers and gendarmes had been mobilised from Tuesday for the search in the northern department of Eure where the attack took place, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said. Global police body Interpol also issued a red notice, at the request of France, which asks law enforcement worldwide to locate and apprehend Mohamed Amra, the convict who escaped in the attack and is reportedly known as "The Fly". "We have put a lot of resources into finding not only the person who escaped" but also "the gang that released him under such despicable circumstances", Darmanin told the RTL broadcaster. "We are making a lot of progress," he added. Apparently raising the possibility the fugitives could have fled abroad, he also spoke of "international cooperation". But over a day after the attack, there was still no sign of them being found. Coordinated attack Two prison officers were killed in the attack and three others wounded, Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said late on Tuesday. One of the injured men was fighting for his life in hospital and two more were receiving critical care, she said. The incident took place late on Tuesday morning at a road toll in Incarville in Eure. The prosecutor said the prison van was rammed head-on by a stolen Peugeot vehicle as it went through the toll crossing. But the van and another vehicle in the prison convoy were also followed by an Audi. Gunmen emerged from the two cars and shot at both prison vehicles. French television channels broadcast footage of the attack taken by surveillance cameras at the toll, showing the Peugeot colliding head on with the prison van. In the video, several gunmen dressed in black emerge from both attack vehicles. A firefight ensues and one man appears to be guided away from the van by the gunmen. A vehicle believed to have been used by the attackers was later found as a burned-out wreck at a different location. The prison officers who died, Fabrice Moello, 52, and Arnaud Garcia, 34, were the first to be killed in the line of duty since 1992. 'On verge of explosion' Prison officer unions announced a day of minimum service on Wednesday and asked for urgent measures to improve the safety of staff. On Wednesday, officers across the country held a minute of silence outside their prisons to remember the fallen colleagues. "We are in mourning," Vanessa Lefaivre, of the FO union at the Fleury-Merogis prison outside Paris, told AFP. "We would never have imagined that prison staff would be killed like this." Officers blocked entrances to the prison in an action unions warned could be renewed, with some burning tyres and brandishing slogans like "Prison is on the verge of explosion". Prosecutor Beccuau said Amra, 30, had last week been convicted of aggravated robbery and charged in a case of abduction leading to death. A source close to the case said Amra was suspected of involvement in drug trafficking and of ordering gangland killings. Another source said he is suspected of being at the head of a criminal network. His lawyer Hugues Vigier said Amra had already made an escape attempt at the weekend by sawing the bars of his cell and said he was shocked by the "inexcusable" and "insane" violence. Law and order is a major issue in French politics ahead of next month's European elections and the prison van ambush sparked fierce reactions from politicians, especially the far right. The incident came on the same day as the French Senate published a damning report warning that government measures had been unable to prevent the flourishing of the narcotics industry in France. "Narco-banditry kills many people, much more than terrorism," said Darmanin, also pointing to the responsibility of drug users. "One cannot at the same time cry for the widows and orphans of the Eure toll booth attack and then smoke a joint... this is called schizophrenia."

French police hunt killers in prison van ambush

Gunmen ambushed a prison van in northern France on Tuesday to free a drug dealer, killing two prison guards, severely wounding three and triggering a major police manhunt. Watch in for more details!

Gunmen ambush French prison van to free drug dealer, killing two guards

Violence has erupted in New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in the South Pacific after France's National Assembly approved changes to voting rules in the Pacific island. Watch this video for all details.

France declares emergency in New Caledonia, territory on the boil

France Prison Van Attack: 'France's most wanted man' on the run after violent escape

Gunmen attack French prison van to free drug dealer, two officers dead

France: Gunmen attack prison van to free drug dealer, 2 officers dead

What's happening in New Caledonia? Why is there unrest?

This year's 'Choose France' Summit arrives amid economic uncertainty for the country. This year saw foreign investments surging to a record $16 billion. But can it change the country’s economic fortunes?

France secures record $16.1 bn in foreign investment pledges

Overnight riots erupted in New Caledonia, a French overseas territory. The trigger is a proposed voting reform in Paris that has angered separatists hundreds of miles away. The unrest began on Monday night as hundreds of protesters rallied against a constitutional reform being debated in the National Assembly in Paris.

Caledonia: French overseas territory on the boil

Two French prison officers were killed in an ambush on a prison van near Rouen, Normandy on Tuesday (May 14).&nbsp;According to French media, an inmate who was being transported in the van escaped with the attackers.

France's Justice Minister, Eric Dupond-Moretti, stated that three other officers were seriously injured and that the Justice Ministry's crisis unit had been convened. French President Emmanuel Macron assured on X that all efforts were being made to apprehend the culprits, while Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced that hundreds of police officers and gendarmes had been deployed.

BFMTV reported that the inmate was being taken back to Évreux jail after a court hearing in Rouen. The ambush occurred at approximately 11:00 (09:00 GMT) near a toll booth on the A154 motorway, which has since been closed in both directions.

The attackers, travelling in two vehicles, intercepted the prison convoy, according to AFP. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the inmate and attackers fled in a car later found burned out nearby. Images circulating on social media, and featured by some French news outlets, show what appear to be hooded gunmen approaching the convoy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/france-secures-major-investments-and-jobs-from-amazon-pfizer-and-morgan-stanley-720840">Also read |&nbsp;France secures major investments and jobs &nbsp;from Amazon, Pfizer, and Morgan Stanley</a>

A police source informed AFP that the ambush was executed by a group of multiple criminals using&nbsp;two vehicles. Shortly after the incident, one of these vehicles was discovered "burned" at an undisclosed location.

The spokesperson for the CFTC Police union, Axel Ronde posted on X: “A real commando set an ambush against the convoy of prison administration staff in #Incarville.”

“One of the perpetrators was injured by return fire. Fraternal support for all prison administration staff in the face of this killing!”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/french-connection-6-reasons-why-france-is-indias-top-partner-in-europe-615179">Also read |&nbsp;French Connection: 6 reasons why France is India's top partner in Europe</a>

Drug-related crime has surged across Europe, which has seen an influx of cocaine in recent years. Marseille has become the focal point of gang violence in France, marked by an especially brutal conflict between trafficking clans.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two French prison officers were killed in an ambush on a prison van near Rouen, Normandy on Tuesday (May 14). According to French media, an inmate who was being transported in the van escaped with the attackers.

Two French prison officers were killed in an ambush on a prison van near Rouen, Normandy on Tuesday (May 14). According to French media, an inmate who was being transported in the van escaped with the attackers. France's Justice Minister, Eric Dupond-Moretti, stated that three other officers were seriously injured and that the Justice Ministry's crisis unit had been convened. French President Emmanuel Macron assured on X that all efforts were being made to apprehend the culprits, while Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced that hundreds of police officers and gendarmes had been deployed. BFMTV reported that the inmate was being taken back to Évreux jail after a court hearing in Rouen. The ambush occurred at approximately 11:00 (09:00 GMT) near a toll booth on the A154 motorway, which has since been closed in both directions. The attackers, travelling in two vehicles, intercepted the prison convoy, according to AFP. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the inmate and attackers fled in a car later found burned out nearby. Images circulating on social media, and featured by some French news outlets, show what appear to be hooded gunmen approaching the convoy. Also read | France secures major investments and jobs from Amazon, Pfizer, and Morgan Stanley A police source informed AFP that the ambush was executed by a group of multiple criminals using two vehicles. Shortly after the incident, one of these vehicles was discovered "burned" at an undisclosed location. The spokesperson for the CFTC Police union, Axel Ronde posted on X: “A real commando set an ambush against the convoy of prison administration staff in #Incarville.” “One of the perpetrators was injured by return fire. Fraternal support for all prison administration staff in the face of this killing!” Also read | French Connection: 6 reasons why France is India's top partner in Europe Drug-related crime has surged across Europe, which has seen an influx of cocaine in recent years. Marseille has become the focal point of gang violence in France, marked by an especially brutal conflict between trafficking clans. (With inputs from agencies)

France prison van attack: Manhunt launched after 2 officers killed and inmate freed

<o:p></o:p>France on Sunday secured commitments from tech giant Amazon, pharmaceutical company Pfizer, and investment bank Morgan Stanley, heralding new jobs and investments for the nation. <o:p></o:p>

This comes as President Emmanuel Macron prepares to launch the annual 'Choose France' summit, aimed at attracting foreign investment.<o:p></o:p>

Amazon pledged an additional investment of 1.2 billion euros in France, potentially generating 3,000 new job opportunities, according to announcements made by the French presidency. <o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, Pfizer and AstraZeneca unveiled plans for new investments adding up to nearly $1 billion in the healthcare sector.<o:p></o:p>

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said that Morgan Stanley had plans to expand its presence in Paris, with plans to increase its workforce to 500 by 2025, including the addition of 100 staff in the French capital. <o:p></o:p>

Macron's vision aims to enhance Paris' stature as a premier European business hub, despite economic challenges such as a low first-quarter growth rate of 0.2 percent and budget deficit pressures.<o:p></o:p>

While Paris seeks to solidify its position as a global financial centre, it faces stiff competition from established hubs like New York and London. <o:p></o:p>

Le Maire acknowledged the ongoing rivalry with the United States and China, stressing the importance of fostering competitiveness and innovation within the European Union. <o:p></o:p>

To address these challenges, he noted that there was the need for initiatives like a capital markets union to stimulate investment in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence.<o:p></o:p>

As part of the 'Choose France' event, Le Maire revealed plans to convene meetings with top executives from leading financial institutions, including JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Bank of America. <o:p></o:p>

These discussions aim to cultivate partnerships and encourage continued investment in France's industrial and economic projects, aligning with Macron's vision for sustained growth and prosperity.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

France on Sunday secured commitments from tech giant Amazon, pharmaceutical company Pfizer, and investment bank Morgan Stanley, heralding new jobs and investments for the nation.

France on Sunday secured commitments from tech giant Amazon, pharmaceutical company Pfizer, and investment bank Morgan Stanley, heralding new jobs and investments for the nation. This comes as President Emmanuel Macron prepares to launch the annual 'Choose France' summit, aimed at attracting foreign investment. Amazon pledged an additional investment of 1.2 billion euros in France, potentially generating 3,000 new job opportunities, according to announcements made by the French presidency. Furthermore, Pfizer and AstraZeneca unveiled plans for new investments adding up to nearly $1 billion in the healthcare sector. Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said that Morgan Stanley had plans to expand its presence in Paris, with plans to increase its workforce to 500 by 2025, including the addition of 100 staff in the French capital. Macron's vision aims to enhance Paris' stature as a premier European business hub, despite economic challenges such as a low first-quarter growth rate of 0.2 percent and budget deficit pressures. While Paris seeks to solidify its position as a global financial centre, it faces stiff competition from established hubs like New York and London. Le Maire acknowledged the ongoing rivalry with the United States and China, stressing the importance of fostering competitiveness and innovation within the European Union. To address these challenges, he noted that there was the need for initiatives like a capital markets union to stimulate investment in emerging sectors such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence. As part of the 'Choose France' event, Le Maire revealed plans to convene meetings with top executives from leading financial institutions, including JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Bank of America. These discussions aim to cultivate partnerships and encourage continued investment in France's industrial and economic projects, aligning with Macron's vision for sustained growth and prosperity. (With inputs from Reuters)

France secures major investments and jobs  from Amazon, Pfizer, and Morgan Stanley

In a bid to solidify France's position as a leading European business hub, President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the annual "Choose France" summit. This event aims to attract significant foreign investment. Last year's edition proved successful, securing $14 billion.

France secures $1.3 bn investment from Amazon, creating 3,000 jobs

A shocking photo of an infant has gone viral from Taylor Swift's Paris concert. In the photo, a baby can be seen lying on the floor unattended. Taylor Swift's fans expressed their outrage after seeing the photo.

Taylor Swift's Paris Eras Tour: Infant spotted unattended at Swift's concert

Taylor Swift's Paris Eras Tour: Swifties shocked by baby left on the floor during concert

Taylor Swift is lighting up Paris the singer is in the French capital for the European leg of her Eras Tour. The concert will continue till May 12th.

Taylor Swift returns with her Eras Tour concert in Europe

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Hungary late Wednesday, the penultimate destination on his five-day European visit, where he is expected to seal several agreements with Prime Minister Viktor Orban that will strengthen China's economic ties in the region. Watch to know more.

Xi's Europe visit: Way to charm or divide? | Is Chinese President creating wedge between West & US?

The significance of President Xi Jinping’s three-nation tour of Europe (3–10 May) covering discussions with the leaders of France, EU, Serbia, and Hungary transcends China-Europe relations.

The significance of President Xi Jinping’s three-nation tour of Europe (3–10 May) covering discussions with the leaders of France, EU, Serbia, and Hungary transcends China-Europe relations. It has important implications for relations among the major powers. Though caught up with the historic elections, India needs to assess the impact of this visit on its interests carefully. The Chinese president’s last visit to Europe was in March 2019, which took him to Italy and France. The world has changed much in the past five years. The Covid pandemic, the US-China rivalry, the India-China border clash, the wars in Ukraine and West Asia, Italy’s withdrawal from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and China's economic and political woes have all combined to turn the geopolitics upside down. As the US presidential elections slowly advance to a climax in November and the likelihood of Trump 2.0 gains salience, China seemed set to woo friends in Europe seeking to neutralise its growing criticism. This trip is also a precursor to the two upcoming developments: the Russian President’s visit to China later in May, and the US President’s participation in the G7 summit in Italy in mid-June. Talks in Paris Gabriel Attal, 35, the youngest French Prime Minister in history, receiving Xi at Orly Airport in Paris presented a gripping opening scene of the Euro-tour: a fresh-faced host eager to please, and a seasoned international figure, aged 70, keen to impress the world. Another memory that may linger on was of the Chinese President lecturing top European leaders – French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (VDL) about the value of ‘strategic communication’ and more. Discussions in Paris covered a host of political and economic questions, but what drew the maximum attention was the EU’s unhappiness over China's trade and economic policies. EU-China daily trade volume is around EUR 2.3 billion, but the economic relationship is stressed “through state-induced over capacity, unequal market access and over dependencies,” as VDL put it. Hence, a strong plea was made for a more balanced trade amidst reports of investigations by the European side of certain Chinese industrial sectors such as electric vehicle exports, and Chinese investigations of mostly French-made brandy imports. Experts concluded that China seemed unwilling to offer substantive concessions. This compelled VDL to state at a subsequent press conference that “Europe will not waiver from making tough decisions to protect its markets.” This assertive reaction revealed the signs of subtle coordination between the EU and the US regarding their common dissatisfaction with Beijing on access issues. EU’s depiction since 2019 of China as a “systemic rival” remains valid. Executing its own pushback, the Chinese side conveyed that the perception of China's over-capacity was baseless when judged by the yardsticks of comparative advantage and global demand. On trade issues, the intra-Europe rift is quite well-known: while France favours a tough approach, Germany – ever sensitive to the needs of its big car manufacturers – prefers caution. Also Read: Macron prioritises trade and Ukraine talks as China’s Xi Jinping visits France On Ukraine, the French president played his familiar tune urging Xi to use his influence with Moscow to move it towards a negotiated settlement. This was in sharp contrast to what Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, bluntly conveyed to China recently: that it must stop the supply of dual-use technology products to Russia that threatens European security, or the US would take suitable counter-measures. The Chinese president urged France to assert its independence, as China does, and help it prevent a new cold war. Paris agrees, but its inability to revive the Franco-German combine as the engine for a strong Europe and Macron’s domestic troubles remain serious constraints for European independence. Moreover, the two-year-old war has made Europe even more dependent on the US. A greater convergence was noted about the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Xi Jinping termed the war “a tragedy” and “a test of human conscience.” Macron asserted that France and China shared “the same goals,” namely to achieve an immediate ceasefire to release hostages, protect the population, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, encourage a regional de-escalation, and re-open a political perspective. However, the disconnect between such lofty pronouncements and the unfolding ugly reality of continued violence in Gaza is striking. Serbia and Hungary Xi Jinping’s discussions in more friendly countries – Serbia and Hungary – achieved greater success. As a huge crowd assembled before the presidential palace in Belgrade greeted the visiting dignitary chanting, “China, China,” Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia, asserted, “We are writing history today.” He underlined the significance of the 29 agreements signed for promoting economic and other cooperation. Xi recalled that Serbia became China's first strategic partner in central and eastern Europe. It agreed to build “a community of shared future” with China. The two leaders were resolved to “jointly confront hegemony and the politics of power.” On key political issues, the two nations stood together. Serbia supports China's position on Taiwan and China supports Serbia’s efforts to preserve the territorial integrity regarding Kosovo. Watch: Xi's Europe visit: Way to charm or divide? | Is Chinese President creating wedge between West & US? Spending two nights in Hungary, the last stop of his tour, the Chinese President witnessed the signing of 16 bilateral agreements. Hungary was the first EU member-state to join BRI. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Xi Jinping focused on deepening economic cooperation, including cooperation “in the full spectrum” of the nuclear industry. They articulated a similar position on Ukraine. Budapest favours China taking a leading role as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine and has expressed its support for China's proposed peace plan. In a public letter to Orbán, Xi stressed the importance of China-EU relations, asserting that their cooperation was greater than the competition and there was more agreement than disagreement. Assessment While the Chinese visit will be dissected thoroughly in foreign ministries and think tanks around the world, it is possible to draw a few tentative conclusions as the visit ends. One, China's status as the world’s second-largest economy and the No. 2 power stands affirmed. The EU, despite its divisions and weaknesses, remains drawn to the lure of the Chinese market and investments. Hence the endeavours to keep the two sides broadly on the same page are set to continue. Two, China and Europe belong to two opposite ends of the geopolitical spectrum: the former, with Russia, forms the East, and the latter, with the US and others, forms the West. The East-West mix of cooperation, competition and confrontation will go on unabated. It may assume a sharper edge following the forthcoming Russia-China and G7 summits. Three, China will continue to accentuate the US-Europe divergences and intra-EU differences to improve its position in the fluctuating balance of power. Four, the two camps, though powerful, show their utter powerlessness in ending the raging wars and re-establishing peace. This demonstrates the failure of international diplomacy and leadership. Finally, three takeaways for India may be identified. First, after the elections, New Delhi should inject more creativity and energy into building up its strategic partnership with all G7 nations, while managing the differences with some of them such as the US, Canada and the EU. Second, it must continue consolidating solid cooperation and trust with Russia. Third, it may examine its options for introducing some resilience in India-China relations because a reset of some kind can expand India's manoeuvrability in dealing with the great powers. As Xi Jinping returns home, he leaves much work to be done in many capitals including New Delhi. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

With Xi Jinping in Europe, China plays geopolitics

Prior to his arrival in Budapest Chinese President Xi Jinping also visited France and Serbia on the second leg of his three Nation Europe tour. During his brief stay in Belgrade, Xi and his Serbian counterpart Aleksandar Vučić signed 29 agreements promoting cooperation in multiple theaters. Watch in for more details!

China & Serbia sign agreement to 'build shared future' | Xi to complete Euro tour with Hungary visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Serbia on the second leg of his European tour. He was earlier in France and will be visiting Hungary next. This is Xi's first trip to Europe since 2019 and is aimed at bolstering ties with Europe.

Xi Jinping's Visit to Europe | What is Chinese President Xi Jinping's message for Europe?

On his first visit to the EU in five years, Chinese President Xi Jinping met his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, and the European Commission President, Ursula Von Der Leyen. Xi Jinping lauded China's ties with France as a model for the international community at opening of Paris talks. Watch in for more details!

China's Xi Jinping in France: Macron, EU Chief urge China to press Russia over Ukraine

French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission Chief Ursula Von Der Leyen hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for critical discussions on trade and geopolitical tensions. Despite Chinese and French companies signing deals ranging from energy, finance, & transport on the sidelines, trade tensions persist.

Macron & EU leaders push for balanced trade with China

On his state visit to Paris, Chinese President Xi Jinping received two bottles of Cognac from his French counterpart Macron. What does it signify? Is Macron trying to woo Xi?

Gravitas | Does Chinese President Xi Jinping love Cognac?

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping to the Pyrenees mountains on Tuesday on the second day of a trip. Xi has said he would welcome more high-level talks on trade frictions, and has denied there was a Chinese "overcapacity problem". Watch in for more details!

Macron, Xi break protocol for one-on-one visit to the Pyrenees

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