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!

Xi Jinping in France: Xi's visit to France marks 60 years of China-France diplomatic ties

Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday (May 5) on a state visit where President Emmanuel Macron is expected to push his Chinese counterpart for a stronger stance against Russia amid the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ahead of Xi's arrival in Paris, Tibetan protesters took to the streets against China's illegal occupation of Tibet. The People's Republic of China (PRC) annexed Tibet in 1951 after the Battle of Chamdo, following China's claim of sovereignty over the region on January 1, 1950.&nbsp;

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Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to France, Tibetans stage protests in capital Paris. <a href="https://t.co/T6q92WkaBk">pic.twitter.com/T6q92WkaBk</a>
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The Chinese Communist Party calls these events the "Peaceful Liberation of Tibet", while the Tibetan diaspora and Central Tibetan Administration call it the "Chinese invasion of Tibet".&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Xi's arrival in Paris marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between France and China.&nbsp;

Xi will also visit Serbia and Hungary.

Xi's choice of France as the sole major European power for a visit shows the signs of relative warmth in Sino-French relations since Macron visited China in April 2023 where he was acknowledged as an EU powerbroker.

Xi, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, was welcomed under umbrellas at a drizzly Paris Orly airport by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal.

Also watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping in France: Xi Jinping in Paris on a two-day visit, Ukraine, trade &amp; investment top agenda

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Xi is to hold a day of talks in Paris on Monday (May 6)&nbsp;with EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.

Tuesday will see Macron take Xi to the Pyrenees mountains,&nbsp;an area he used to visit as a boy, for a day of less public talks.

In an op-ed for Le Figaro daily, Xi said that he wanted to work with the international community to find ways to solve the conflict sparked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;while adding that Beijing was "neither a party nor a participant" in the conflict. 
 
"We hope that peace and stability will return quickly to Europe and intend to work with France and the entire international community to find good paths to resolve the crisis," he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday (May 5) on a state visit where President Emmanuel Macron is expected to push his Chinese counterpart for a stronger stance against Russia amid the war in Ukraine.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday (May 5) on a state visit where President Emmanuel Macron is expected to push his Chinese counterpart for a stronger stance against Russia amid the war in Ukraine. Ahead of Xi's arrival in Paris, Tibetan protesters took to the streets against China's illegal occupation of Tibet. The People's Republic of China (PRC) annexed Tibet in 1951 after the Battle of Chamdo, following China's claim of sovereignty over the region on January 1, 1950. Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to France, Tibetans stage protests in capital Paris. pic.twitter.com/T6q92WkaBk — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 5, 2024 × The Chinese Communist Party calls these events the "Peaceful Liberation of Tibet", while the Tibetan diaspora and Central Tibetan Administration call it the "Chinese invasion of Tibet". What does it mean? Xi's arrival in Paris marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between France and China. Xi will also visit Serbia and Hungary. Xi's choice of France as the sole major European power for a visit shows the signs of relative warmth in Sino-French relations since Macron visited China in April 2023 where he was acknowledged as an EU powerbroker. Xi, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, was welcomed under umbrellas at a drizzly Paris Orly airport by Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. Also watch | Xi Jinping in France: Xi Jinping in Paris on a two-day visit, Ukraine, trade & investment top agenda × Xi is to hold a day of talks in Paris on Monday (May 6) with EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. Tuesday will see Macron take Xi to the Pyrenees mountains, an area he used to visit as a boy, for a day of less public talks. In an op-ed for Le Figaro daily, Xi said that he wanted to work with the international community to find ways to solve the conflict sparked by Russia's invasion of Ukraine while adding that Beijing was "neither a party nor a participant" in the conflict. "We hope that peace and stability will return quickly to Europe and intend to work with France and the entire international community to find good paths to resolve the crisis," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping in France: Chants of 'Free Tibet' echo in Paris streets amid Chinese leader's state visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping made a rare visit to Paris on Sunday. The President lauded the bilateral ties between China and France. This praise comes in the backdrop of ongoing trade disputes with the EU. Not just the EU but several major economies, including the US, have raised concerns over China’s trade practices.

Xi Jinping makes ‘rare’ visit to Paris amid trade disputes

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Xi Jinping arrives in France | No pressure can stop US, says Israel PM Netanyahu

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Israeli strikes on Rafah kill at least 22 - Xi Jinping arrives in France - Russia holds rehearsal for victory day parade - Brazil flooding kills at least 28

Xi Jinping arrives in France | Brazil flooding kills at least 78

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 calls for closer ties with EU at opening of Paris talks

Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a keenly watched trip to Europe for his first stop Xi has arrived in Paris. This is the Chinese President's first visit to the region after the COVID pandemic as Beijing looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region.

China's Xi Jinping in France: Ukraine, trade and investment top agenda

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IDF: Evacuating 100,000 from East Rafah, Hezbollah fires rockets

Xi Jinping in Paris on a two-day visit, mark  60 years of China-France diplomatic ties

For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago.&nbsp;

<h2>About the record</h2>

On Sunday, around a dozen bakers gathered for the Suresnes Baguette Show organised with the Confédération Nationale de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française et Nutella, managed to beat the world record for the longest baguette, with a loaf measuring 140.53 metres.

The preparation for the record-setting loaf began at 3:00 am (local time) in the hopes of beating the 132.62-metre record set by the Italians on June 16, 2019, and after 14 hours it was a success.&nbsp;

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After the kneading and shaping of the dough began in the middle of the night, it was placed in a specially built slow-moving oven on wheels. The baguette, made by the French bakers, is said to be 235 times longer than the traditional one.&nbsp;

“Everything has been validated, we are all very happy to have beaten this record and that it was done in France,” Anthony Arrigault, one of the bakers, said after the baguette was approved by a Guinness World Records judge, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

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[🥖🇨🇵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suresnesbaguetteshow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Suresnesbaguetteshow</a>] 
Derniers mètres de baguette avant la fin de la cuisson. Le suspense est à son comble pour la validation du record 🤞💪!<a href="https://twitter.com/cnbpf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cnbpf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FerreroFr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FerreroFr</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NutellaFR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NutellaFR</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jx6RcmDnrs">pic.twitter.com/Jx6RcmDnrs</a>
— Ville de Suresnes (@villedesuresnes) <a href="https://twitter.com/villedesuresnes/status/1787114186532630975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A part of the record-breaking baguette, which according to the guidelines had to be at least five centimetres thick throughout, was shared with the public and the rest was to be given to homeless people in Suresnes

“The dough will be kneaded, shaped on site, and then baked in front of the public in a rolling oven under a tent,” said the organisers in a statement ahead of the event.&nbsp;

It added, “It will be made according to the rules of the art, with wheat flour, water, yeast and salt as the only ingredients.”

<h2>‘Bringing the record home’</h2>

It is also worth noting that both world records for creating the longest French-origin bread were held by Italy.&nbsp;

The record five years ago came after the title of longest baguette was held by a 122-metre loaf baked at the Milan Expo in 2015.&nbsp;

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Since both the records were held by Italy, the objective was “bringing the record home,” said the organisers, according to the town’s website.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago.

For the last five years, Italy has held the record for the world’s longest baguette and a group of French bakers, on Sunday (May 5) succeeded in changing that. A group of bakers in the French town of Suresnes, a commune in the suburbs of Paris, reclaimed the record of one of the nation’s best-known emblems taken by Italy five years ago. About the record On Sunday, around a dozen bakers gathered for the Suresnes Baguette Show organised with the Confédération Nationale de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française et Nutella, managed to beat the world record for the longest baguette, with a loaf measuring 140.53 metres. The preparation for the record-setting loaf began at 3:00 am (local time) in the hopes of beating the 132.62-metre record set by the Italians on June 16, 2019, and after 14 hours it was a success. Also Read | NASA working on building rail tracks on Moon, sending humans and cargo to Mars After the kneading and shaping of the dough began in the middle of the night, it was placed in a specially built slow-moving oven on wheels. The baguette, made by the French bakers, is said to be 235 times longer than the traditional one. “Everything has been validated, we are all very happy to have beaten this record and that it was done in France,” Anthony Arrigault, one of the bakers, said after the baguette was approved by a Guinness World Records judge, as quoted by Reuters. [🥖🇨🇵#Suresnesbaguetteshow] Derniers mètres de baguette avant la fin de la cuisson. Le suspense est à son comble pour la validation du record 🤞💪!@cnbpf @FerreroFr @NutellaFR pic.twitter.com/Jx6RcmDnrs — Ville de Suresnes (@villedesuresnes) May 5, 2024 × A part of the record-breaking baguette, which according to the guidelines had to be at least five centimetres thick throughout, was shared with the public and the rest was to be given to homeless people in Suresnes “The dough will be kneaded, shaped on site, and then baked in front of the public in a rolling oven under a tent,” said the organisers in a statement ahead of the event. It added, “It will be made according to the rules of the art, with wheat flour, water, yeast and salt as the only ingredients.” ‘Bringing the record home’ It is also worth noting that both world records for creating the longest French-origin bread were held by Italy. The record five years ago came after the title of longest baguette was held by a 122-metre loaf baked at the Milan Expo in 2015. Also Read | Kim Jong Un propaganda song floors netizens who didn't hesitate to invoke Taylor Swift Since both the records were held by Italy, the objective was “bringing the record home,” said the organisers, according to the town’s website. (With inputs from agencies)

France sets record for world’s longest baguette, beats Italy after five years

Chinese President Jinping in Paris on a two-day visit; Ukraine, trade & investment top agenda

There has been an interesting development in The graft case involving former French president Nicolas Sarkozy his wife Carla Bruni has now become a suspect in the case. She has been accused of illegal witness tampering and helping her husband.

Gravitas | Carla Bruni now suspect in Sarkozy graft case

French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that he did not dismiss sending military troops to Ukraine, stating that the matter would "legitimately" come up if Russia barged through Ukrainian front lines and Kyiv called for such a move.

Macron made these remarks after he delivered a keynote speech last week where he said that Europe is "mortal" and could "die" partly due to the existential threat from Russian aggression.

"I'm not ruling anything out, because we are facing someone who is not ruling anything out," said Macron on being asked if he stood by his remarks earlier this year of not excluding the probability of&nbsp;sending&nbsp;Western troops to Ukraine.

Macron stated "if Russia decided to go further, we will in any case all have to ask ourselves this question" of sending military forces, describing his refusal to rule out such a move as a "strategic wake-up call for my counterparts".

He described Russia as "a power of regional destabilisation" and "a threat to Europeans' security".

"I have a clear strategic objective: Russia cannot win in Ukraine," Macron said.

"If Russia wins in Ukraine, there will be no security in Europe.&nbsp;

"Who can pretend that Russia will stop there? What security will there be for the other neighbouring countries, Moldova, Romania, Poland, Lithuania and the others?" he asked.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-attacks-in-ukraines-east-five-killed-717166">Also read: Russia intensifies attacks in Ukraine's east, five killed</a>

<h2>Macron warns Europe 'could die', calls for stronger defence</h2>

Earlier, Macron had warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences.

Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States.

He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay.

The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy.

"Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said.

"It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron further said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed".

"Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this".

He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity".

"Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added.

The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security.

He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine".

"We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that he did not dismiss sending military troops to Ukraine, stating that the matter would "legitimately" come up if Russia barged through Ukrainian front lines and Kyiv called for such a move.

French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that he did not dismiss sending military troops to Ukraine, stating that the matter would "legitimately" come up if Russia barged through Ukrainian front lines and Kyiv called for such a move. Macron made these remarks after he delivered a keynote speech last week where he said that Europe is "mortal" and could "die" partly due to the existential threat from Russian aggression. "I'm not ruling anything out, because we are facing someone who is not ruling anything out," said Macron on being asked if he stood by his remarks earlier this year of not excluding the probability of sending Western troops to Ukraine. Macron stated "if Russia decided to go further, we will in any case all have to ask ourselves this question" of sending military forces, describing his refusal to rule out such a move as a "strategic wake-up call for my counterparts". He described Russia as "a power of regional destabilisation" and "a threat to Europeans' security". "I have a clear strategic objective: Russia cannot win in Ukraine," Macron said. "If Russia wins in Ukraine, there will be no security in Europe. "Who can pretend that Russia will stop there? What security will there be for the other neighbouring countries, Moldova, Romania, Poland, Lithuania and the others?" he asked. Also read: Russia intensifies attacks in Ukraine's east, five killed Macron warns Europe 'could die', calls for stronger defence Earlier, Macron had warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences. Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States. He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay. The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy. "Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said. "It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron further said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed". "Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon. Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this". He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity". "Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added. The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security. He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine". "We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron reaffirms he doesn't rule out troops for Ukraine

France and the Philippines will begin talks next month on a defence pact to allow military exercises in each other territories. Officials from both Nations will meet in Paris for the talks.

France-Philippines: 'Visiting forces agreement'

Chinese president Xi Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the Covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

China President Xi Jinping to travel to France, Hungary; first trip to Europe in last five years

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Chinese president Xi Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Europe. He will be visiting several countries on his first trip to the continent since the covid pandemic. As China looks for greater trade and strategic ties with the region. During the reported tour the Chinese leader will make stops in Hungary, Siberia and France. Watch in for more details!

China President Xi Jinping to visit France, Serbia & Hungary

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A French Zoo has welcomed two new tiger cubs. The cubs were born on the 22nd of March and they reflect a big victory for the European breeding program of Sumatran Tigers. Less than 400 of Sumatran tigers remain in the wild. Watch in for more details!

French Zoo gets 2 Sumatran Tiger cubs as part of Programme aimed at conserving animal population

French Zoo welcomes two Sumatran Tiger cubs

Students in Paris inspired by Gaza solidarity encampments at campuses in the United States blocked access to a campus building at a prestigious French university Friday, prompting administrators to move all classes online. Watch in for more details!

Pro-Palestine Protests: Students at prestigious Paris university occupy campus building

French President Emmanuel Macron said that he is all set to "open the debate" about the role nuclear weapons play in a common European defence.

"I am ready to open this debate which must include anti-missile defence, long-range capabilities, and nuclear weapons for those who have them or who host American nuclear armaments," the French president said in an interview with regional press group EBRA.

"Let us put it all on the table and see what really protects us in a credible manner," he added.

France will "maintain its specificity but is ready to contribute more to the defence of Europe,"&nbsp;Macron further said.

Following Britain's exit from the European Union, France is the only country in the bloc that owns nuclear weapons.

<h2>Europe 'could die', warns Macron as he calls for stronger defence</h2>

Macron on Thursday (Apr 25) warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences.

Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States.

He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-defence-minister-announces-100-million-military-aid-package-for-ukraine-715763">Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine</a>

The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy.

"Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said.

"It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron further said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed".

"Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this".

He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity".

"Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added.

The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security.

He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine".

"We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron said that he is all set to "open the debate" about the role nuclear weapons play in a common European defence. "I am ready to open this debate which must include anti-missile defence, long-range capabilities, and nuclear weapons for those who have them or who host American nuclear armaments," the French president said in an interview with regional press group EBRA.

French President Emmanuel Macron said that he is all set to "open the debate" about the role nuclear weapons play in a common European defence. "I am ready to open this debate which must include anti-missile defence, long-range capabilities, and nuclear weapons for those who have them or who host American nuclear armaments," the French president said in an interview with regional press group EBRA. "Let us put it all on the table and see what really protects us in a credible manner," he added. France will "maintain its specificity but is ready to contribute more to the defence of Europe," Macron further said. Following Britain's exit from the European Union, France is the only country in the bloc that owns nuclear weapons. Europe 'could die', warns Macron as he calls for stronger defence Macron on Thursday (Apr 25) warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences. Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States. He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay. Also read: Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy. "Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said. "It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron further said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed". "Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon. Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this". He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity". "Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added. The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security. He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine". "We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron says ready to 'open debate' on role of nuclear weapons in European defence

The famous Mona Lisa portrait by Leonardo da Vinci could now have a room of its own in the Louvre, Paris.

The museum's president announced the move on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that this would provide the visitors a better experience especially the ones who visit the Louvre for the iconic painting alone.

"It's always frustrating when you don't give visitors the best possible reception, and that is the case for the Mona Lisa," Laurence des Cars was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

"A better solution seems necessary to me today," she added.

She further said that the Louvre was in contact with the culture ministry about potential solutions.

The Louvre, which is the world's most popular museum, in the year 2023, welcomed over nine million visitors.

Des Cars said that nearly 80 per cent of the visitors brave the massive crowd to get a glimpse of the iconic portrait or capture selfies showing Mona Lisa's mysterious smile.&nbsp;

The Mona Lisa currently shares space with the Louvre's biggest painting, The Wedding at Cana by Paolo Veronese along with other works by 16th-century Venetian masters in the the museum's Salle des Etats (State Room).

The portrait is displayed in a protective glass case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-warns-europe-could-die-calling-for-stronger-defence-714981">Also read:&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron warns Europe 'could die', calls for stronger defence</a>

<h2>Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier this year, protesters splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding the Mona Lisa demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food".

Two women had hurled&nbsp;orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed in France's capital city causing a commotion.

The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events.

"What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn.

"Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room.

Both the activists were later detained by the police.

(With inputs from agencies)

The famous Mona Lisa portrait by Leonardo da Vinci could now have a room of its own in the Louvre, Paris. The museum's president announced the move on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that this would provide the visitors a better experience especially the ones who visit the Louvre for the iconic painting alone.

The famous Mona Lisa portrait by Leonardo da Vinci could now have a room of its own in the Louvre, Paris. The museum's president announced the move on Saturday (Apr 27) stating that this would provide the visitors a better experience especially the ones who visit the Louvre for the iconic painting alone. "It's always frustrating when you don't give visitors the best possible reception, and that is the case for the Mona Lisa," Laurence des Cars was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. "A better solution seems necessary to me today," she added. She further said that the Louvre was in contact with the culture ministry about potential solutions. The Louvre, which is the world's most popular museum, in the year 2023, welcomed over nine million visitors. Des Cars said that nearly 80 per cent of the visitors brave the massive crowd to get a glimpse of the iconic portrait or capture selfies showing Mona Lisa's mysterious smile. The Mona Lisa currently shares space with the Louvre's biggest painting, The Wedding at Cana by Paolo Veronese along with other works by 16th-century Venetian masters in the the museum's Salle des Etats (State Room). The portrait is displayed in a protective glass case. Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron warns Europe 'could die', calls for stronger defence Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting Earlier this year, protesters splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding the Mona Lisa demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food". Two women had hurled orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed in France's capital city causing a commotion. The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events. "What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn. "Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room. Both the activists were later detained by the police. (With inputs from agencies)

Iconic Mona Lisa painting could get a room of its own, says Louvre

Some 6,000 police will be deployed next month to secure the arrival of the Olympic torch from Greece in the French city of Marseille, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Friday.

The extra officers will be mobilised on top of local firefighters and police, meaning security will be even tighter than when Pope Francis visited the city in September 2023.

The Olympic torch is to be handed over to French organisers in Athens on Friday before they bring it to Marseille on a French 19th-century sailing ship.

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The three-mast Belem is to set sail on Saturday from Greece and breeze into the Old Port in France's second-largest city on the evening of May 8, with crowds of around 150,000 people expected to be watching.

Darmanin said an elite tactical unit, bomb disposal teams, nautical police officers and an anti-drone team would be in place to secure the Old Port.

He added that more than 1,000 boats that have signed up to sail with the Belem along the coastline before it arrives in port would all have been inspected and "demined" during the day.

The minister said there was "no specified threat" to the event, but that law enforcement was preparing for several hypothetical scenarios.

These included one linked to "radical Islamism", though "the far right and far left" could also pose a risk, he said.

"We will set up everything required by anti-terrorist laws to monitor and prevent" any incident, Darmanin said.

French authorities had even prepared a plan B in case the wind was too strong -- higher than 25 knots -- and the Belem could not dock in the harbour.

"But as it's always great weather in Marseille, I don't imagine this will happen," he said.

Some 6,000 police will be deployed next month to secure the arrival of the Olympic torch from Greece in the French city of Marseille, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Friday.

Some 6,000 police will be deployed next month to secure the arrival of the Olympic torch from Greece in the French city of Marseille, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Friday. The extra officers will be mobilised on top of local firefighters and police, meaning security will be even tighter than when Pope Francis visited the city in September 2023. The Olympic torch is to be handed over to French organisers in Athens on Friday before they bring it to Marseille on a French 19th-century sailing ship. Also read: Draft 2024: Kirk Cousins 'disappointed and shocked' after Falcons pick QB in first-round The three-mast Belem is to set sail on Saturday from Greece and breeze into the Old Port in France's second-largest city on the evening of May 8, with crowds of around 150,000 people expected to be watching. Darmanin said an elite tactical unit, bomb disposal teams, nautical police officers and an anti-drone team would be in place to secure the Old Port. He added that more than 1,000 boats that have signed up to sail with the Belem along the coastline before it arrives in port would all have been inspected and "demined" during the day. The minister said there was "no specified threat" to the event, but that law enforcement was preparing for several hypothetical scenarios. These included one linked to "radical Islamism", though "the far right and far left" could also pose a risk, he said. "We will set up everything required by anti-terrorist laws to monitor and prevent" any incident, Darmanin said. French authorities had even prepared a plan B in case the wind was too strong -- higher than 25 knots -- and the Belem could not dock in the harbour. "But as it's always great weather in Marseille, I don't imagine this will happen," he said.

Paris Olympics 2024: France to deploy 6,000 police officers for safe arrival of Olympic torch

Indian government pushed for the extradition of fugitive businessman and liquor baron Vijay Mallya from France without any preconditions, media reports said quoting sources.&nbsp;Even as Mallya is presumed to be present in the United Kingdom, India has been actively pursuing his extradition with countries where he holds properties and extradition treaties exist, France being one of them. This strategy is to facilitate extradition if Mallya travels to any of these countries, as per reports.&nbsp;

Mallya, who is facing legal troubles related to financial mismanagement, loan defaults, and allegations of fraud and money laundering, fled the country in 2016 and is currently believed to be living in the UK.&nbsp;

As per the said sources, “The French offered a (extradition) proposal with some preconditions (but) India asked them to approve the proposal without any preconditions." This discussion came during the 16th meeting of the India-France Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, which was held on April 15.&nbsp;

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The meeting, attended by officials from both nations, addressed various counter-terrorism issues, including mutual legal assistance treaty (MLAT) requests concerning cases of money laundering and terror financing, which encompassed Mallya's case as well.&nbsp;

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As per a press release by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (CT) KD Dewal, and the French delegation by Ambassador Olivier Caron, Special Envoy for Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime.&nbsp;

<h2>Mallya's legal woes&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, Mallya's troubles stemmed&nbsp;from a bank loan default case exceeding Rs 9,000 crore related to his defunct Kingfisher Airlines. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleged that Mallya continued acquiring personal assets abroad even as his airline faced financial turmoil in India.

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In 2020, French authorities seized Mallya's property in France valued at nearly Rs 14 crore. In April 2020, having pursued all available legal avenues to avoid extradition to India for allegations of embezzling public funds, Mallya made a plea for asylum to the UK Home Department citing "humanitarian grounds." As of now, the UK Home Department has not reached a decision regarding the asylum request.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian government pushed for the extradition of fugitive businessman and liquor baron Vijay Mallya from France without any preconditions, media reports said quoting sources.

Indian government pushed for the extradition of fugitive businessman and liquor baron Vijay Mallya from France without any preconditions, media reports said quoting sources. Even as Mallya is presumed to be present in the United Kingdom, India has been actively pursuing his extradition with countries where he holds properties and extradition treaties exist, France being one of them. This strategy is to facilitate extradition if Mallya travels to any of these countries, as per reports. Mallya, who is facing legal troubles related to financial mismanagement, loan defaults, and allegations of fraud and money laundering, fled the country in 2016 and is currently believed to be living in the UK. As per the said sources, “The French offered a (extradition) proposal with some preconditions (but) India asked them to approve the proposal without any preconditions." This discussion came during the 16th meeting of the India-France Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, which was held on April 15. Also Read | Indian-origin student at Princeton University arrested, barred from campus over anti-Israel protests The meeting, attended by officials from both nations, addressed various counter-terrorism issues, including mutual legal assistance treaty (MLAT) requests concerning cases of money laundering and terror financing, which encompassed Mallya's case as well. Also Read | Global wine production dropped 10% in 2023, climate change blamed for downfall As per a press release by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian delegation was led by Joint Secretary (CT) KD Dewal, and the French delegation by Ambassador Olivier Caron, Special Envoy for Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime. Mallya's legal woes Notably, Mallya's troubles stemmed from a bank loan default case exceeding Rs 9,000 crore related to his defunct Kingfisher Airlines. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleged that Mallya continued acquiring personal assets abroad even as his airline faced financial turmoil in India. Watch | India General Elections 2024: Voting in 88 constituencies across India × In 2020, French authorities seized Mallya's property in France valued at nearly Rs 14 crore. In April 2020, having pursued all available legal avenues to avoid extradition to India for allegations of embezzling public funds, Mallya made a plea for asylum to the UK Home Department citing "humanitarian grounds." As of now, the UK Home Department has not reached a decision regarding the asylum request. (With inputs from agencies)

India presses France for Vijay Mallya's extradition 'without preconditions': Report

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (Apr 25) warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences.

Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States.

He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay.

The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy.

"Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said.

"It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed".

"Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;

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<h2>'Europe will experience decline'</h2>

Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this".

He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity".

"Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added.

The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security.

He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine".

"We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (Apr 25) warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences. Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday (Apr 25) warned that today's Europe "could die" calling for stronger, more integrated European defences. Stating that the continent was facing an existential threat from Russian aggression, Macron outlined his long-term vision for Europe involving less dependency on the United States. He then dubbed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine as "uninhibited" saying that it wasn't clear as to where Russia's "limits" lay. The French president also raised alarm bells over the "disrespect" of trade rules by the United States as well as China, urging the EU to review its trade policy. "Our Europe, today, is mortal and it can die," he said. "It can die and this depends only on our choices," Macron said, warning that Europe was "not armed against the risks we face" in a world where the "rules of the game have changed". "Over the next decade... there is an immense risk of (Europe) being weakened or even relegated," he added, also pointing to the risk of Iran obtaining a nuclear weapon. Also read: Israel to go ahead with Rafah invasion even as Egypt warns of humanitarian crisis 'Europe will experience decline' Macron said the risk is that Europe will experience a decline and that despite all the efforts "we are already starting to see this". He said he stood by his comments, which he said were a policy of "strategic ambiguity". "Do we have limits in ensuring the security of Europeans? No," he added. The French president called on Europe to be more self-reliant saying that it should bring about a change as in the past, the continent was over-dependent on Moscow for energy and Washington for security. He said the required "sine qua non" for European security was "that Russia does not win the war of aggression in Ukraine". "We need to build this strategic concept of a credible European defence for ourselves," Macron said, adding Europe could not be "a vassal" of the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

French President Emmanuel Macron warns Europe 'could die', calls for stronger defence

Visitors to Paris make a beeline to the Louvre to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa and countless other Treasures but now the world's largest museum is also attempting to join the Olympic fever. You can now work out inside the Louvre as Olympic organisers attempt to combine Sports and culture.

Louvre offers sport sessions ahead of games

Afghan Olympian Friba Rezayee has called on the International Olympic Committee to ban Afghanistan from the upcoming Paris Olympics scheduled in July this year due to the Taliban's human rights record. Has the IOC turned a blind eye to Taliban violations?

Paris Olympics 2024: Will IOC ban Afghanistan from Paris Olympics?

Tourists and locals have gathered on the beach at Berck, in northern France, for the 37th edition of the International Kite Festival. Watch in for more details!

37th International Kite festival in Northern France

In France's Guadeloupe city, on Thursday (Apr 18) a nighttime curfew was ordered for minors after a surge of violence in the overseas territory.

<h2>Are the children in danger?</h2>

Apparently, it is the other way around. Guadeloupe city, which is located more than 7,000 kilometres (4,349.6 miles) from mainland France, as per local authorities, has six times more homicides and 20 times more armed robberies than the national average. AFP reports that youth are increasingly involved in these crimes.

In March, describing the city as "cut-throat," Pointe-a-Pitre mayor Harry Durimel revealed that "minors previously made up 12 per cent of those who committed crimes, but now they account for 38 per cent."

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Announcing the nighttime curfew, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said: "We can't let 12, 13, 14-year-olds with weapons roam the streets at 10:00 pm, attacking police officers, tourists and passers-by".

<h2>The curfew</h2>

Starting next week, youth under 18 will have to follow an 8:00 pm curfew. This curfew will last for two months.

Pointe-a-Pitre's mayor Durimel said that he hoped this curfew would help security on the Caribbean island—one of France's many overseas territories spanning the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans.

"If children are at their parents' at night, they're not going to burn 70 garbage cans like they did in Pointe-a-Pitre last week," he added.

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Along with the curfew, Darmanin also announced measures like increased video surveillance to tackle drugs and street weapons, which he said was "without a doubt the main problem facing Guadeloupe today".

Reportedly, the interior minister was assaulted by a youth as he arrived at a local television station to record an interview after announcing the curfew. A young man in his 20s asked to talk to Darmanin and, when the minister extended his hand, allegedly grabbed him by the shoulders and arms. Quickly reacting, the security pulled the young man back, who was arrested, witnesses told AFP. The minister was not hurt in the encounter.

(With inputs from agencies)

In France's Guadeloupe city, on Thursday (Apr 18) a nighttime curfew was ordered for minors after a surge of violence in the overseas territory. Are the children in danger?

In France's Guadeloupe city, on Thursday (Apr 18) a nighttime curfew was ordered for minors after a surge of violence in the overseas territory. Are the children in danger? Apparently, it is the other way around. Guadeloupe city, which is located more than 7,000 kilometres (4,349.6 miles) from mainland France, as per local authorities, has six times more homicides and 20 times more armed robberies than the national average. AFP reports that youth are increasingly involved in these crimes. In March, describing the city as "cut-throat," Pointe-a-Pitre mayor Harry Durimel revealed that "minors previously made up 12 per cent of those who committed crimes, but now they account for 38 per cent." Also read | Canada's biggest gold heist: Two Indian-origin men among six arrested Announcing the nighttime curfew, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said: "We can't let 12, 13, 14-year-olds with weapons roam the streets at 10:00 pm, attacking police officers, tourists and passers-by". The curfew Starting next week, youth under 18 will have to follow an 8:00 pm curfew. This curfew will last for two months. Pointe-a-Pitre's mayor Durimel said that he hoped this curfew would help security on the Caribbean island—one of France's many overseas territories spanning the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. "If children are at their parents' at night, they're not going to burn 70 garbage cans like they did in Pointe-a-Pitre last week," he added. Also read | Google terminates 28 employees for protest of Israeli cloud contract Along with the curfew, Darmanin also announced measures like increased video surveillance to tackle drugs and street weapons, which he said was "without a doubt the main problem facing Guadeloupe today". Reportedly, the interior minister was assaulted by a youth as he arrived at a local television station to record an interview after announcing the curfew. A young man in his 20s asked to talk to Darmanin and, when the minister extended his hand, allegedly grabbed him by the shoulders and arms. Quickly reacting, the security pulled the young man back, who was arrested, witnesses told AFP. The minister was not hurt in the encounter. (With inputs from agencies)

Night-time streets off-limits for youth in France's Guadeloupe. Here's why

A 14-year-old girl passed away due to a heart attack after her school initiated a lockdown in response to a knife attack in a nearby primary school in eastern France, media reports said. A man reportedly stabbed two girls aged 7 and 11 outside a neighbouring primary school.

The girl who died was enrolled in the middle school located in Souffelweyersheim.&nbsp;

The attack in the primary school left two girls lightly wounded. Education official Olivier Faron reportedly said that the girl who suffered a heart attack was rescued by teachers however, her life could not be saved.&nbsp;As per AFP quoting education official, the teachers were quick to call the fire department amid the chaos.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the knife attack in a nearby facility, the&nbsp;middle school took precautionary measures by closing its doors and imposing a lockdown. Faron said, "Sadly this pupil underwent an episode of very high stress that led to a heart attack."&nbsp;

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A concerned mother, Deborah Wendling, expressed her son's distress during the lockdown, stating, "Whereas in the primary school they made it more like a game, perhaps here it was a little too direct."&nbsp;

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However, Faron defended the teachers' actions saying, "There is no perfect solution," while also highlighting the need for a thorough analysis of the situation to draw lessons from it.

<h2>30-year-old assailant</h2>

The assailant, a 30-year-old individual, has been apprehended by the police, and an investigation into attempted murder of minors has been initiated by the prosecutor's office. Although the motive behind the attack remains unclear, authorities described the perpetrator as "psychologically fragile," ruling out terrorism as a motive.

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France has seen numerous knife attacks last year. In a tragic incident on October 13, 2023, a high school in the northern French town of Arras fell victim to a knife attack, resulting in the death of one teacher and the injury of another. The suspected assailant was under surveillance as part of the state's 'Fiche S' watchlist, a security list used in France that contains the names of individuals who are considered potential threats to national security.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A 14-year-old girl passed away due to a heart attack after her school initiated a lockdown in response to a knife attack in a nearby primary school in eastern France, media reports said.

A 14-year-old girl passed away due to a heart attack after her school initiated a lockdown in response to a knife attack in a nearby primary school in eastern France, media reports said. A man reportedly stabbed two girls aged 7 and 11 outside a neighbouring primary school. The girl who died was enrolled in the middle school located in Souffelweyersheim. The attack in the primary school left two girls lightly wounded. Education official Olivier Faron reportedly said that the girl who suffered a heart attack was rescued by teachers however, her life could not be saved. As per AFP quoting education official, the teachers were quick to call the fire department amid the chaos. After the knife attack in a nearby facility, the middle school took precautionary measures by closing its doors and imposing a lockdown. Faron said, "Sadly this pupil underwent an episode of very high stress that led to a heart attack." Also Read | French police arrest man after he threatens to blow himself up at Iranian consulate in Paris A concerned mother, Deborah Wendling, expressed her son's distress during the lockdown, stating, "Whereas in the primary school they made it more like a game, perhaps here it was a little too direct." Also Read | Two suspects detained in Poland over attack on Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in Lithuania However, Faron defended the teachers' actions saying, "There is no perfect solution," while also highlighting the need for a thorough analysis of the situation to draw lessons from it. 30-year-old assailant The assailant, a 30-year-old individual, has been apprehended by the police, and an investigation into attempted murder of minors has been initiated by the prosecutor's office. Although the motive behind the attack remains unclear, authorities described the perpetrator as "psychologically fragile," ruling out terrorism as a motive. Watch | French police arrest man after surrounding Iranian consulate in Paris × France has seen numerous knife attacks last year. In a tragic incident on October 13, 2023, a high school in the northern French town of Arras fell victim to a knife attack, resulting in the death of one teacher and the injury of another. The suspected assailant was under surveillance as part of the state's 'Fiche S' watchlist, a security list used in France that contains the names of individuals who are considered potential threats to national security. (With inputs from agencies)

French teen dies of heart attack after lockdown amid knife attack at nearby school

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