The anti-bedbug campaign was launched in response to the resurgence of bedbugs in France, which have made a comeback due to international travel and growing resistance to insecticides.

France faces bed bug nuisance ahead of 2024 Paris Olympics

Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July. 
 
He stated that "contacts" were underway for French forces' "very swift" pullout from Niger as the relations with France went downhill after the military takeover. 
 
"We have not stopped contacts with ECOWAS, we are continuing contacts. We have good hopes of reaching an agreement in the coming days," said Prime Minister Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey. 
 
Hefty sanctions were slapped by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after the country's democratically-elected president Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the rebel soldiers on July 26.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-bans-ngos-un-agencies-from-working-in-military-operation-zones-631031">Niger bans NGOs, UN agencies from working in military 'operation zones'</a>

EOWAS has also several times warned that it will intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum if the diplomatic attempts are not able to resolve the crisis. 
 
"We are bracing to be attacked at any time. Every preparation has been taken. It would be an unjust war. We are determined to defend ourselves if there is an attack," Zeine said while speaking to the reporters.

<h2>Spat with France</h2>

Without elaborating much on the withdrawal of the French forces, Prime Minister Zeine said that "contacts" were underway "that should enable a very swift withdrawal of French forces" from the country. 
 
However, he stated that Niger wished "to maintain co-operation with a country with which we have shared an enormous number of things." On August 3, the post-coup government renounced military accords with Paris, a step which has been ignored by France. 
 
Zeine stated that because of the renunciation, the French troops in Niger are now "in a position of illegality." As per military sources, one of the accords needed a notice period of one month.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation?

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Meanwhile, the air space was reopened by Niger on Monday after a flight ban was imposed by the government on August 6 in response to the threat of the ECOWAS, said the official news agency ANP. 
 
During this time, some flights to Niamey were allowed with special authorisations. 
 
Speaking to AFP, Air France said that it will resume flights over Nigerien territory from Tuesday morning, even though the suspension will remain imposed on its air services to and from Niamey until further notice.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July.

Niger's military-appointed Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey, on Monday (September 4) said that he is hoping to finalise a deal "in the coming days" with the West African bloc ECOWAS after the latter threatened to use force for restoring civilian rule in the country post-coup in July. He stated that "contacts" were underway for French forces' "very swift" pullout from Niger as the relations with France went downhill after the military takeover. "We have not stopped contacts with ECOWAS, we are continuing contacts. We have good hopes of reaching an agreement in the coming days," said Prime Minister Zeine, while addressing a press conference in Niamey. Hefty sanctions were slapped by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after the country's democratically-elected president Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by the rebel soldiers on July 26. ALSO READ | Niger bans NGOs, UN agencies from working in military 'operation zones' EOWAS has also several times warned that it will intervene militarily to reinstate Bazoum if the diplomatic attempts are not able to resolve the crisis. "We are bracing to be attacked at any time. Every preparation has been taken. It would be an unjust war. We are determined to defend ourselves if there is an attack," Zeine said while speaking to the reporters. Spat with France Without elaborating much on the withdrawal of the French forces, Prime Minister Zeine said that "contacts" were underway "that should enable a very swift withdrawal of French forces" from the country. However, he stated that Niger wished "to maintain co-operation with a country with which we have shared an enormous number of things." On August 3, the post-coup government renounced military accords with Paris, a step which has been ignored by France. Zeine stated that because of the renunciation, the French troops in Niger are now "in a position of illegality." As per military sources, one of the accords needed a notice period of one month. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: Is Niger a victim of foreign exploitation? Meanwhile, the air space was reopened by Niger on Monday after a flight ban was imposed by the government on August 6 in response to the threat of the ECOWAS, said the official news agency ANP. During this time, some flights to Niamey were allowed with special authorisations. Speaking to AFP, Air France said that it will resume flights over Nigerien territory from Tuesday morning, even though the suspension will remain imposed on its air services to and from Niamey until further notice. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Niger PM Zeine expresses hope for 'agreement' with ECOWAS

French authorities were on Monday imposing a newly-announced ban on the abaya Muslim dress for women in schools, with over 500 establishments under scrutiny as children across the country returned to class.&nbsp; 
 
The government announced last month it was banning the abaya in schools, saying it broke the rules on secularism in education that have already seen Muslim headscarves banned on the grounds they constitute a display of religious affiliation.

The move gladdened the political right but the hard-left argued it represented an affront to civil liberties.

"Things are going well this morning. There is no incident for the moment, we will continue all day to be vigilant so that the students understand the meaning of this rule," said Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne as she visited a school in northern France.

But she added that there was a "certain number" of schools where girls had arrived wearing an abaya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-france-bans-abaya-robes-in-schools-all-you-need-to-know-630014">Explained: France bans abaya robes in schools. All you need to know</a>

"Some young girls agreed to remove it. For the others, we will have discussions with them, and use educational approaches to explain that there is a law that is being applied," she added.

The hard-left has accused the government of centrist President Emmanuel Macron of trying with the abaya ban to compete with Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally and shifting further to the right.

Education Minister Gabriel Attal told RTL radio that authorities had identified 513 schools that could be affected by the ban at the start of the school year.

There are around 45,000 schools in France, with 12 million pupils going back to school on Monday.

He said work had been done ahead of the start of the school year to see in which schools this could present a problem, adding that trained school inspectors would be placed in certain schools.

Also watch | France court upholds football hijab ban

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Gabriel Attal however said he was against imposing a ban on parents wearing clothes that had religious significance when they accompanied their children on school outings.

"There is a difference between what happens in school and what happens outside school. What matters to me is what happens in school," he said.

Some leading figures on the right have called on the government to make children wear school uniform in state schools and Attal said he would announce a uniform trial in the autumn.

"I am not sure it's a miracle solution that will solve all school problems. But I think it merits testing," he added.

A law introduced in March 2004 banned "the wearing of signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in schools.

This includes large crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves.

Unlike headscarves, abayas -- a long, baggy garment worn to comply with Islamic beliefs on modest dress -- occupied a grey area and had faced no outright ban until now.

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French authorities were on Monday imposing a newly-announced ban on the abaya Muslim dress for women in schools, with over 500 establishments under scrutiny as children across the country returned to class.

French authorities were on Monday imposing a newly-announced ban on the abaya Muslim dress for women in schools, with over 500 establishments under scrutiny as children across the country returned to class. The government announced last month it was banning the abaya in schools, saying it broke the rules on secularism in education that have already seen Muslim headscarves banned on the grounds they constitute a display of religious affiliation. The move gladdened the political right but the hard-left argued it represented an affront to civil liberties. "Things are going well this morning. There is no incident for the moment, we will continue all day to be vigilant so that the students understand the meaning of this rule," said Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne as she visited a school in northern France. But she added that there was a "certain number" of schools where girls had arrived wearing an abaya. Also read | Explained: France bans abaya robes in schools. All you need to know "Some young girls agreed to remove it. For the others, we will have discussions with them, and use educational approaches to explain that there is a law that is being applied," she added. The hard-left has accused the government of centrist President Emmanuel Macron of trying with the abaya ban to compete with Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally and shifting further to the right. Education Minister Gabriel Attal told RTL radio that authorities had identified 513 schools that could be affected by the ban at the start of the school year. There are around 45,000 schools in France, with 12 million pupils going back to school on Monday. He said work had been done ahead of the start of the school year to see in which schools this could present a problem, adding that trained school inspectors would be placed in certain schools. Also watch | France court upholds football hijab ban × Gabriel Attal however said he was against imposing a ban on parents wearing clothes that had religious significance when they accompanied their children on school outings. "There is a difference between what happens in school and what happens outside school. What matters to me is what happens in school," he said. Some leading figures on the right have called on the government to make children wear school uniform in state schools and Attal said he would announce a uniform trial in the autumn. "I am not sure it's a miracle solution that will solve all school problems. But I think it merits testing," he added. A law introduced in March 2004 banned "the wearing of signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in schools. This includes large crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves. Unlike headscarves, abayas -- a long, baggy garment worn to comply with Islamic beliefs on modest dress -- occupied a grey area and had faced no outright ban until now. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France: Abaya ban on female students comes into effect

The abaya, a loose-fitting robe popular among Muslim women and girls, will no longer be permitted to be worn in state-run schools in France. According to the 34-year-old minister, a letter stating that "secularism is not a constraint, it is a liberty" was handed to the girls whose admittance was denied on Monday.

Abaya Ban in France: Schoolgirls flouting abaya ban sent home across France

Dozens of girls were sent back home by French schools for refusing to remove their abayas, an over-garment from the shoulders to the feet worn mostly by Muslim women.

Dozens of girls were sent back home by French schools for refusing to remove their abayas, an over-garment from the shoulders to the feet worn mostly by Muslim women. This happened on the first day of the school year as a new regulation on uniforms was implimeted. Last month, the French administration banned children from wearing the abaya in state-run schools - a decision that garnered applause as well as criticism, with a government spokesman saying that wearing abaya dresses is a "political attack". Education minister Gabriel Attal told the BFM broadcaster on Tuesday (September 5) that nearly 300 girls showed up Monday morning (Sep 4) wearing an abaya, defying a ban on the Muslim dress. Also read: California highway stretch named after Indian-origin police officer The minister said that most agreed to change out of the dress, but 67 refused and were sent home. Attal said the girls refused entry were given a letter addressed to their families saying that "secularism is not a constraint, it is a liberty". The minister said that if they showed up at school again wearing the dress, there would be a "new dialogue". An organisation that represents Muslims has requested an injunction against the prohibition on the abaya and the qamis, its male equivalent clothing, with the State Council. Later on Tuesday, the motion from Action for the Rights of Muslims (ADM) will be reviewed. Also read: Sunak insists on free trade deal with India which works for all of UK French President Emmanuel Macron late Monday defended the controversial measure, saying there was a "minority" in France who "hijack a religion and challenge the republic and secularism", leading to the "worst consequences" such as the murder three years ago of teacher Samuel Paty for showing Prophet Mohamed caricatures during a civics education class. "We cannot act as if the terrorist attack, the murder of Samuel Paty, had not happened," he said in an interview with YouTube channel HugoDecrypte. Watch: Food we eat responsible for 1/3rd of human-made emissions × Strict dress rules in France In French schools, women have long been banned from wearing the headscarf. The European nation has enforced a strict ban on religious signs in state schools since 19th-century laws removed any traditional Catholic influence from public education, but it, to some extent, struggled to update guidelines for the Muslim minority. In 2004, France banned headscarves in schools, which was followed by thousands of people, many of them women wearing headscarves, marching on the street to protest the law banning Islamic coverings and other religious apparel in public schools. The polls stated that a substantial majority of French citizens supported the prohibition. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French schools send home dozens of girls for refusing to remove abayas

Vegan food has once again stirred up a huge storm within the French food industry to avoid confusion. France is also to ban vegan products from using meaty language.

Real vs mock meat: The battle of names; No meaty words for Vegan products in France

The French government has introduced new proposals to ban the use of meat names like "steak" and "spare ribs" for plant-based food made in the country as it seeks to avoid "misleading claims".

The proposed decree bans a list of 21 meat names to describe protein-based products, including “steak”, “escalope”, “spare ribs”, “ham” or “butcher”.

However, over 120 meat-associated names such as "cooked ham", "poultry", "sausage" or "bacon" will still be authorised provided that the products do not exceed a certain amount of plant protein, with percentages ranging between 0.5 per cent and 6 per cent.

Also, the word "burger", used by many brands to attract consumers, is not included on the lists.

The rules would be applicable to products made and sold in France, the EU’s largest agricultural producer.

<h2>To maintain transparency&nbsp;</h2>

The guideline was unveiled on Monday (Sept 4) to maintain “transparency and honesty responding to the legitimate expectations of consumers and producers”, Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said in a statement.

The proposals, which were first announced in June last year, had to go through some changes after the French courts objected to them a month later for being too vague and the timing of implementation being too short.

Once the decree&nbsp;goes into effect, France will become the first EU country to impose such restrictions.

&nbsp;“This new draft decree reflects our desire to put an end to misleading claims... by using names relating to meat products for foodstuffs that do not contain them,” French agriculture minister Marc Fesneau said.

<h2>To come into force in three months&nbsp;</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-first-lady-jill-biden-tests-positive-for-covid-prez-biden-tests-negative-white-house-632414">US First Lady tests Covid +ve; Prez Biden tests negative ahead of G20 summit</a>

In recent years, France has seen a sharp uptick in the consumption and demand for environmentally friendly and healthy diets.

The need to impose such restrictions arose after the food industry in the country started using references of meat products to plant-based products, inviting the ire of livestock farmers and meat processors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-invited-to-be-part-of-israel-cyprus-greece-trilateral-summit-632422">India invited to be part of Israel-Cyprus-Greece trilateral summit</a>

The rule is expected to come into force three months after publication to give operators time to adapt their labelling.

The buffer time given by the government would also allow the manufacturers to sell their stocks labelled as meat before the decree comes into force.

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The French government has introduced new proposals to ban the use of meat names like "steak" and "spare ribs" for plant-based food made in the country as it seeks to avoid "misleading claims".

The French government has introduced new proposals to ban the use of meat names like "steak" and "spare ribs" for plant-based food made in the country as it seeks to avoid "misleading claims". The proposed decree bans a list of 21 meat names to describe protein-based products, including “steak”, “escalope”, “spare ribs”, “ham” or “butcher”. However, over 120 meat-associated names such as "cooked ham", "poultry", "sausage" or "bacon" will still be authorised provided that the products do not exceed a certain amount of plant protein, with percentages ranging between 0.5 per cent and 6 per cent. Also, the word "burger", used by many brands to attract consumers, is not included on the lists. The rules would be applicable to products made and sold in France, the EU’s largest agricultural producer. To maintain transparency The guideline was unveiled on Monday (Sept 4) to maintain “transparency and honesty responding to the legitimate expectations of consumers and producers”, Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said in a statement. The proposals, which were first announced in June last year, had to go through some changes after the French courts objected to them a month later for being too vague and the timing of implementation being too short. Once the decree goes into effect, France will become the first EU country to impose such restrictions. “This new draft decree reflects our desire to put an end to misleading claims... by using names relating to meat products for foodstuffs that do not contain them,” French agriculture minister Marc Fesneau said. To come into force in three months Also read | US First Lady tests Covid +ve; Prez Biden tests negative ahead of G20 summit In recent years, France has seen a sharp uptick in the consumption and demand for environmentally friendly and healthy diets. The need to impose such restrictions arose after the food industry in the country started using references of meat products to plant-based products, inviting the ire of livestock farmers and meat processors. Also read | India invited to be part of Israel-Cyprus-Greece trilateral summit The rule is expected to come into force three months after publication to give operators time to adapt their labelling. The buffer time given by the government would also allow the manufacturers to sell their stocks labelled as meat before the decree comes into force. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

France reignites bid to ban use of words ‘steak’, ‘spare ribs’ for plant-based food

France will ban <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/some-so-called-nicotine-free-vapes-have-same-level-of-addictive-substances-as-e-cigarettes-finds-test-583442">disposable electronic cigarettes or vapes</a> as a part of the country’s plan to combat smoking and fight tobacco use, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said on broadcaster RTL, on Sunday (September 3). This comes months after the World Health Organization (WHO) said that only four countries have adopted all the anti-tobacco measures to fight the “deadly scourge” of smoking.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the French government’s plan?</h2>

Speaking to the radio station RTL, the French PM said that the government would “soon present a new national plan to fight against smoking with, in particular, the prohibition of disposable electronic cigarettes, the famous ‘puffs’ which give bad habits to young people,” as quoted by the Guardian.&nbsp;

“It’s an important public health issue,” said Borne, adding that the government is in the midst of drawing up the plans to fight tobacco use that she said was responsible for 75,000 deaths a year in France. However, the plan does not include raising the taxes on tobacco next year after an increase this year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-to-ban-disposable-vape-as-it-extends-aggressive-anti-smoking-campaigns-601392">New Zealand to ban disposable vape as it extends aggressive anti-smoking campaigns</a>

Borne also noted that this does not mean that “they are not vigilant about tobacco consumption” but said that her main concern is about vapes or “puffs” which she said are a gateway to smoking.&nbsp; 
 
She expressed her concerns about flavoured cigarettes like marshmallow and bubblegum reminiscent of childhood sweets and priced at eight euros ($8.6) to 12 euros ($13) for 500 “puffs” targeting teenagers, as per the Guardian.&nbsp;

<h2>Use of vapes in France</h2>

Recent reports have noted that the use of vapes, particularly among teenagers in the European Union has risen.&nbsp;

More than half of 17-year-olds in France said that they have tried a vape, according to a report by the French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT) citing data from a 2022 ESCAPAD survey. &nbsp;

In 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron set out his ambitious plan to tackle tobacco and alcohol consumption and vowed more smoking-free areas and aiming to make all 20-year-olds tobacco-free by 2030.

<h2>WHO report about smoking</h2>

A report by the United Nations health agency, published in July, noted that only four countries – Brazil, Mauritius, the Netherlands and Turkey – have adopted all the anti-tobacco measures recommended and urged other nations to ramp up measures to reduce tobacco use.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-authorities-seize-millions-of-illegal-vapes-in-three-years-shows-data-608229">Illegal vapes flood UK markets, authorities seized over 2.5 million in three years, reveals data</a>

Some of these measures include enforcing advertising bans, plastering health warnings on cigarette packages, raising tobacco taxes and providing assistance to those who want to quit.&nbsp;

According to the WHO, 5.6 billion people (71 per cent) of the world’s population were now protected by at least one tobacco control measure. “Slowly but surely, more and more people are being protected from the harms of tobacco,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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France will ban disposable electronic cigarettes or vapes as a part of the country’s plan to combat smoking and fight tobacco use, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said on broadcaster RTL, on Sunday (September 3).

France will ban disposable electronic cigarettes or vapes as a part of the country’s plan to combat smoking and fight tobacco use, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said on broadcaster RTL, on Sunday (September 3). This comes months after the World Health Organization (WHO) said that only four countries have adopted all the anti-tobacco measures to fight the “deadly scourge” of smoking. What is the French government’s plan? Speaking to the radio station RTL, the French PM said that the government would “soon present a new national plan to fight against smoking with, in particular, the prohibition of disposable electronic cigarettes, the famous ‘puffs’ which give bad habits to young people,” as quoted by the Guardian. “It’s an important public health issue,” said Borne, adding that the government is in the midst of drawing up the plans to fight tobacco use that she said was responsible for 75,000 deaths a year in France. However, the plan does not include raising the taxes on tobacco next year after an increase this year. ALSO READ | New Zealand to ban disposable vape as it extends aggressive anti-smoking campaigns Borne also noted that this does not mean that “they are not vigilant about tobacco consumption” but said that her main concern is about vapes or “puffs” which she said are a gateway to smoking. She expressed her concerns about flavoured cigarettes like marshmallow and bubblegum reminiscent of childhood sweets and priced at eight euros ($8.6) to 12 euros ($13) for 500 “puffs” targeting teenagers, as per the Guardian. Use of vapes in France Recent reports have noted that the use of vapes, particularly among teenagers in the European Union has risen. More than half of 17-year-olds in France said that they have tried a vape, according to a report by the French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT) citing data from a 2022 ESCAPAD survey. In 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron set out his ambitious plan to tackle tobacco and alcohol consumption and vowed more smoking-free areas and aiming to make all 20-year-olds tobacco-free by 2030. WHO report about smoking A report by the United Nations health agency, published in July, noted that only four countries – Brazil, Mauritius, the Netherlands and Turkey – have adopted all the anti-tobacco measures recommended and urged other nations to ramp up measures to reduce tobacco use. ALSO READ | Illegal vapes flood UK markets, authorities seized over 2.5 million in three years, reveals data Some of these measures include enforcing advertising bans, plastering health warnings on cigarette packages, raising tobacco taxes and providing assistance to those who want to quit. According to the WHO, 5.6 billion people (71 per cent) of the world’s population were now protected by at least one tobacco control measure. “Slowly but surely, more and more people are being protected from the harms of tobacco,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France plans to ban disposable e-cigarettes in bid to curb smoking habit

Dozens of protesters took to the streets on Saturday (September 2) in Niger's capital city &nbsp;Niamey demanding former colonial ruler France to withdraw its troops as sought by a junta which seized power in the month of June.

The demonstrators gathered near a base that was housing French soldiers after a call by several civic organisations hostile to the French military presence in the West African country.

They held up banners proclaiming "French army leave our country".

On Friday (September 1), Niger's military command had shot a new articulated denunciation at France on Friday, condemning Paris for "blatant interference" by supporting the country's ousted president, as demonstrators staged a similar protest near a French base outside Niamey.&nbsp;

<h2>French ambassador defies Niger military junta’s 48-hour ultimatum</h2>

Defying the orders of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Aug 28) announced that the country’s ambassador would continue to stay in the crisis-hit capital Niamey.

Dismissing concerns that not adhering to the junta’s orders could be dangerous, Macron said that they can withstand pressure.

“France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts,” he said, according to AFP news agency.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-foundation-reverses-decision-excludes-russian-ambassador-from-prize-ceremony-631774">Nobel Foundation reverses decision, excludes Russian ambassador from prize ceremony</a>

“Our policy is the right one. It depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite pressure,” Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris.

<h2>Niger-France in fresh diplomatic stand-off</h2>

The response from Macron came days after Niger asked French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours, accusing him of ignoring an invitation for a meeting with the ministry.

They also cited “actions of the French government contrary to the interests of Niger” while giving the ultimatum.

Macron also reiterated France’s support to Niger’s overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, and extended support to any military action by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niger.

"One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy,” Macron said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Dozens of protesters took to the streets on Saturday (September 2) in Niger's capital city Niamey demanding former colonial ruler France to withdraw its troops as sought by a junta which seized power in the month of June.

Dozens of protesters took to the streets on Saturday (September 2) in Niger's capital city Niamey demanding former colonial ruler France to withdraw its troops as sought by a junta which seized power in the month of June. The demonstrators gathered near a base that was housing French soldiers after a call by several civic organisations hostile to the French military presence in the West African country. They held up banners proclaiming "French army leave our country". On Friday (September 1), Niger's military command had shot a new articulated denunciation at France on Friday, condemning Paris for "blatant interference" by supporting the country's ousted president, as demonstrators staged a similar protest near a French base outside Niamey. French ambassador defies Niger military junta’s 48-hour ultimatum Defying the orders of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Aug 28) announced that the country’s ambassador would continue to stay in the crisis-hit capital Niamey. Dismissing concerns that not adhering to the junta’s orders could be dangerous, Macron said that they can withstand pressure. “France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts,” he said, according to AFP news agency. Also read: Nobel Foundation reverses decision, excludes Russian ambassador from prize ceremony “Our policy is the right one. It depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite pressure,” Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris. Niger-France in fresh diplomatic stand-off The response from Macron came days after Niger asked French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours, accusing him of ignoring an invitation for a meeting with the ministry. They also cited “actions of the French government contrary to the interests of Niger” while giving the ultimatum. Macron also reiterated France’s support to Niger’s overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, and extended support to any military action by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niger. "One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy,” Macron said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Protesters take to streets in Niger demanding withdrawal of French troops

French Minister of Justice Eric Dupont-Moretti has been subjected to global outrage over his "sexist" remarks about female journalists. In widely condemned comments, he said on Monday (August 28),&nbsp;why women reporters asking questions aren't 'topless' and maybe it isn't hot enough.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The comments were made over the coverage of the case of a woman who was fined for exposing her breasts. He inspected a courthouse in the central town of Aurillac that had been damaged during a protest against the prosecution of a woman for "sexual exhibitionism".&nbsp;

Local reports mentioned that many protesters bared their chests like the arrested woman, who told police that she had removed her top because "it's super hot out" and "half the men" in the street had done the same.&nbsp;

Now, the unions of the journalists have accused him of sexism and insulting their members. The unions include some prominent television channels such as TF1 and BFMTV.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-underlines-critical-need-to-revive-ukraine-deal-630960">Turkey underlines 'critical' need to revive Ukraine deal</a>&nbsp;

Dupond-Moretti told journalists, "I have noticed that none of the women journalists asking questions today were standing bare-breasted in front of me. Maybe it wasn't hot enough?"&nbsp;

The Societe des Journalistes (SDJ) has condemned it. At broadcaster BFMTV, it said that the minister made the "inappropriate" remarks after a press briefing to several reporters, two of whom were women.&nbsp;

The SDJ at France's biggest TV station TF1 called the remarks "sexist" and "unacceptable" even "if they had been made jokingly".&nbsp;

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<h2>Inappropriate remarks by an inappropriate minister: Oppn</h2>

An official speaking for Dupond-Moretti said there was "no basis" to the complaints and that the minister was "completely" devoted to "the fight against all forms of sexual and sexist violence".&nbsp;

The official told the news agency AFP that the minister's remarks had been taken out of context.&nbsp;

As reported, the official claimed that the minister was highlighting the reporters present there wearing tops, which was "proof that respect for the law is the norm".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Olivier Faure, who is the leader of the opposition Socialists, also slammed the remarks, calling the words "inappropriate remarks by an inappropriate minister". Faure said that the minister "should manage his libido elsewhere than in government".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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French Minister of Justice Eric Dupont-Moretti has been subjected to global outrage over his "sexist" remarks about female journalists. In widely condemned comments, he said on Monday (August 28), why women reporters asking questions aren't 'topless' and maybe it isn't hot enough.

French Minister of Justice Eric Dupont-Moretti has been subjected to global outrage over his "sexist" remarks about female journalists. In widely condemned comments, he said on Monday (August 28), why women reporters asking questions aren't 'topless' and maybe it isn't hot enough. The comments were made over the coverage of the case of a woman who was fined for exposing her breasts. He inspected a courthouse in the central town of Aurillac that had been damaged during a protest against the prosecution of a woman for "sexual exhibitionism". Local reports mentioned that many protesters bared their chests like the arrested woman, who told police that she had removed her top because "it's super hot out" and "half the men" in the street had done the same. Now, the unions of the journalists have accused him of sexism and insulting their members. The unions include some prominent television channels such as TF1 and BFMTV. Also read: Turkey underlines 'critical' need to revive Ukraine deal Dupond-Moretti told journalists, "I have noticed that none of the women journalists asking questions today were standing bare-breasted in front of me. Maybe it wasn't hot enough?" The Societe des Journalistes (SDJ) has condemned it. At broadcaster BFMTV, it said that the minister made the "inappropriate" remarks after a press briefing to several reporters, two of whom were women. The SDJ at France's biggest TV station TF1 called the remarks "sexist" and "unacceptable" even "if they had been made jokingly". Watch: Backstreet boys star, Nick Carter faces third lawsuit × Also read: Tesla building 'glass house' for Musk, probe launched into fund misuse claims Inappropriate remarks by an inappropriate minister: Oppn An official speaking for Dupond-Moretti said there was "no basis" to the complaints and that the minister was "completely" devoted to "the fight against all forms of sexual and sexist violence". The official told the news agency AFP that the minister's remarks had been taken out of context. As reported, the official claimed that the minister was highlighting the reporters present there wearing tops, which was "proof that respect for the law is the norm". Meanwhile, Olivier Faure, who is the leader of the opposition Socialists, also slammed the remarks, calling the words "inappropriate remarks by an inappropriate minister". Faure said that the minister "should manage his libido elsewhere than in government". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why women reporters aren't 'topless', asks French justice minister, faces criticism

Defying the orders of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Aug 28) announced that the country’s ambassador would continue to stay in the crisis-hit capital Niamey.

Dismissing concerns that not adhering to the junta’s orders could be dangerous, Macron said that they can withstand pressure.

“France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts,” he said, according to AFP news agency.

“Our policy is the right one. It depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite pressure,” Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris.

There has been a surge of anti-French sentiment in Niger, which was once its colony, ever since the coup toppled the civilian government. It has been reported that the putschists have been taking the help of Wagner mercenary forces to reinforce their rule.

<h2>Niger-France in fresh diplomatic stand-off</h2>

The response from Macron came days after Niger asked French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours, accusing him of ignoring an invitation for a meeting with the ministry.

They also cited “actions of the French government contrary to the interests of Niger” while giving the ultimatum.

Macron also reiterated France’s support to Niger’s overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, and extended support to any military action by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niger.

The French president also brushed aside junta leaders’ allegations who have blamed much of Niger’s problems on its former colonial ruler.

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"One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy,” Macron said.

<h2>ECOWAS ready with intervention plan&nbsp;</h2>

Bazoum is said to have been in detention with his family at the presidential palace since the July 26 coup that has been condemned by France and most of Niger’s neighbours.

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France has about 1,500 troops in Niger helping local forces fight Islamic extremists.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the chair of ECOWAS, will be meeting US President Joe Biden next month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, where the two leaders are likely to discuss Niger.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Defying the orders of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Aug 28) announced that the country’s ambassador would continue to stay in the crisis-hit capital Niamey.

Defying the orders of the Niger military junta, French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (Aug 28) announced that the country’s ambassador would continue to stay in the crisis-hit capital Niamey. Dismissing concerns that not adhering to the junta’s orders could be dangerous, Macron said that they can withstand pressure. “France and its diplomats have faced particularly difficult situations in some countries in recent months, from Sudan, where France has been exemplary, to Niger at this very moment and I applaud your colleague and your colleagues who are listening from their posts,” he said, according to AFP news agency. “Our policy is the right one. It depends on the courage of President Mohamed Bazoum, the commitment of our diplomats, of our ambassador on the ground who is remaining despite pressure,” Macron told a gathering of French ambassadors in Paris. There has been a surge of anti-French sentiment in Niger, which was once its colony, ever since the coup toppled the civilian government. It has been reported that the putschists have been taking the help of Wagner mercenary forces to reinforce their rule. Niger-France in fresh diplomatic stand-off The response from Macron came days after Niger asked French Ambassador Sylvain Itte to leave the country within 48 hours, accusing him of ignoring an invitation for a meeting with the ministry. They also cited “actions of the French government contrary to the interests of Niger” while giving the ultimatum. Macron also reiterated France’s support to Niger’s overthrown President Mohamed Bazoum, and extended support to any military action by The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Niger. The French president also brushed aside junta leaders’ allegations who have blamed much of Niger’s problems on its former colonial ruler. Also read | Ahead of G-20 summit, Beijing wrongly depicts parts of India inside China "One shouldn't give in to the narrative used by the coup leaders that consists of saying France has become our enemy,” Macron said. ECOWAS ready with intervention plan Bazoum is said to have been in detention with his family at the presidential palace since the July 26 coup that has been condemned by France and most of Niger’s neighbours. Also read | Chandrayaan-3: Pragyan rover stumbles upon giant crater on Moon France has about 1,500 troops in Niger helping local forces fight Islamic extremists. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is also the chair of ECOWAS, will be meeting US President Joe Biden next month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, where the two leaders are likely to discuss Niger. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French ambassador defies Niger military junta’s 48-hour ultimatum, to stay in coup-hit country

Music legend Sir Elton John was hospitalised in France on Sunday after he suffered a fall at&nbsp;his home. The singer was taken to the local hospital "as a precautionary measure" and received a checkup before being "immediately discharged" on Monday morning.&nbsp; 
 
He "is now back at home and in good health," a representative for the singer told Fox News. "He is healthy and doing well," they added. 
 
John, 76, lives in a 1920s home in Nice, France, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. He calls it "the summer house," according to Architectural Digest.&nbsp; 
 
The home has been a retreat and destination for many celebrities, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as Elizabeth Hurley.&nbsp; 
 
Earlier in August, Elton John was seen having dinner with Kevin Spacey in Nice after testifying virtually on behalf of the actor in his sexual assault trial. 
 
John also recently announced that his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour would be his last. He recently concluded the tour. It had been delayed due to John's health as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
"When we set off on my final tour in 2018, I couldn’t have foreseen in my wildest dreams the twists and turns and the highs and lows this tour - and the whole world - would have experienced in the next 5 years. And every step of the way, my fans have been there. You have stuck with me, you have supported me, you have been patient and you have kept turning out for every single last show," John shared on social media about&nbsp;his final performance in July. 
 
"Saturday night was magical. I’m trying to process it and I don’t think it will sink in for a while yet that I’m finally finished touring. I can’t tell you how much I’m going to miss you all and how much your support has humbled me - it will stay with me forever," he concluded.

John shares two kids- Zachary, 12 and Elijah, 10 with husband David Furnish. The family also has homes in London and in the US.

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Music legend Sir Elton John was hospitalised in France on Sunday after he suffered a fall at his home. The singer was taken to the local hospital "as a precautionary measure" and received a checkup before being "immediately discharged" on Monday morning.

Music legend Sir Elton John was hospitalised in France on Sunday after he suffered a fall at his home. The singer was taken to the local hospital "as a precautionary measure" and received a checkup before being "immediately discharged" on Monday morning. He "is now back at home and in good health," a representative for the singer told Fox News. "He is healthy and doing well," they added. John, 76, lives in a 1920s home in Nice, France, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. He calls it "the summer house," according to Architectural Digest. The home has been a retreat and destination for many celebrities, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as Elizabeth Hurley. Earlier in August, Elton John was seen having dinner with Kevin Spacey in Nice after testifying virtually on behalf of the actor in his sexual assault trial. John also recently announced that his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour would be his last. He recently concluded the tour. It had been delayed due to John's health as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. "When we set off on my final tour in 2018, I couldn’t have foreseen in my wildest dreams the twists and turns and the highs and lows this tour - and the whole world - would have experienced in the next 5 years. And every step of the way, my fans have been there. You have stuck with me, you have supported me, you have been patient and you have kept turning out for every single last show," John shared on social media about his final performance in July. "Saturday night was magical. I’m trying to process it and I don’t think it will sink in for a while yet that I’m finally finished touring. I can’t tell you how much I’m going to miss you all and how much your support has humbled me - it will stay with me forever," he concluded. John shares two kids- Zachary, 12 and Elijah, 10 with husband David Furnish. The family also has homes in London and in the US. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Elton John taken to hospital after suffering a fall at home

In spite of pressure from the leaders of a recent coup, France's ambassador to Niger will remain there, President Emmanuel Macron announced in an address to diplomats on Monday.

Niger Coup Fallout | Macron: French ambassador will stay in Niger

France has decided to ban children from the “abaya”, the loose-fitting gown worn by some Muslim women. Watch the video to know more.

France mulls to ban ‘Abaya’ in state-run schools

France said it will ban children from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">wearing the abaya</a> in state-run schools. Abayas are loose-fitted and full-length robes, that are mostly worn by some Muslim women. The decision has garnered both applause and criticism. The government&nbsp;spokesman said that wearing abaya dresses is a "political attack".&nbsp;

<h2>Mixed reactions to the ban &nbsp;</h2>

French education minister Gabriel Attal said that the long, flowing dresses that originated in the Middle East would no longer be allowed in schools in the new term because they violate secular laws.&nbsp;

He also said that the government was clear that abayas "did not belong in schools" and that "schools are being tested". The minister added, "These last few months, violations of our secular rules have considerably increased, particularly with regard to the wearing of religious clothing such as abayas or qamis which have appeared - and remained - in some establishments."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a government spokesman Olivier Veran said it was "obviously" a religious garment and "a political attack, a political sign" which he saw as an act of "proselytising" or trying to convert to Islam.&nbsp;

"School is secular. We say it in a very calm but firm way: it is not the place for that (wearing religious clothing)," he told the BFM TV channel.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-to-execute-man-for-criticising-government-on-x-account-with-only-nine-followers-629997">Saudi Arabia to execute man for criticising government on X account with only nine followers</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency Reuters, sociologist Agnes De Feo said the ban was "dangerous" since it would only lead to Muslim people feeling even more stigmatised.&nbsp;

During a conversation with France Inter radio, Sophie Venetitay, the head of the secondary school teachers union SNES-FSU, said the ban should not distract people from seeing more important issues schools are facing: "It should not mask all the problems schools have during this back-to-school season."&nbsp;

Eric Ciotti, who is the head of the conservative Les Republicains party, welcomed the move. Ciotti stressed that his group had repeatedly asked for it.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Clementine Autain, an MP for the hard-left France Insoumise, slammed the decision. She called the decision by the government "clothes police" and a move "characteristic of an obsessional rejection of Muslims".&nbsp;

The SNPDEN-UNSA union of school principals welcomed the move, saying what it needed above all was clarity, its national secretary, Didier Georges, told Reuters.&nbsp;

Georges said, "What we wanted from ministers was: yes or no? We're satisfied because a decision was made. We would have been equally happy if the decision had been to authorise the abaya."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-russian-national-accused-of-espionage-supplying-western-tech-to-moscow-629978">Swedish-Russian national accused of espionage, supplying western tech to Moscow</a>&nbsp;

<h2>A history of strict dress rules in France</h2>

In French schools, women have long been banned from wearing the headscarf. The European nation has enforced a strict ban on religious signs in state schools since 19th-century laws removed any traditional Catholic influence from public education, but it, to some extent, struggled to update guidelines for the Muslim minority.&nbsp;

In 2004, France banned headscarves in schools, which was followed by thousands of people, many of them women wearing headscarves, marching on the street to protest the law banning Islamic coverings and other religious apparel in public schools. The polls stated that a substantial majority of French citizens supported the prohibition.&nbsp;

French secular rules, which are aimed at ensuring&nbsp;equality in public institutions, forbade schoolchildren from wearing "signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in 2004.&nbsp;This includes large Christian crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves.&nbsp;

It is now illegal for students to display overt religious or political affiliation through the use of items like the Jewish skullcap, the Islamic hijab, or oversized Christian crosses.&nbsp;

In 2010, France passed a ban on full-face veils in public and the nation brought in a complete ban on clothing that includes full-face coverings, including the burkha and niqab. These cannot be worn in any public space in France and invite a fine of&nbsp;€150 ($162).&nbsp;

Such bans have remained a matter of controversy and the latest announcement, the decision to ban abayas, has sparked a new debate about France's secular rules and whether they are used to discriminate against the country's large Muslim minority.&nbsp;

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<h2>Muslim population in France in 2023</h2>

According to the figures by the national statistics bureau, INSEE, Muslims made up 10 per cent of the French population in 2023. They represented 10 per cent of the French population in 2019 - 2020. A total of 29 per cent of the population, aged 18 to 59, declared themselves Catholic, 10 per cent Muslim, 10 per cent other religions and 51 per cent had no religion.&nbsp;

The report added that the "immigrants coming from traditionally Muslim countries are more engaged in religion," whereas those from European (with the exception of Portugal) or Asian countries reported being religiously affiliated less frequently.&nbsp;

"Only 20% of the Muslims regularly go to mosques," said INSEE. "Religion's place in identity is clearly most significant for Jews (54%) and Muslims (30%), compared to Catholics (6%), and has decreased among Muslims in 11 years."&nbsp;

INSEE said that "only 20% of the Muslims regularly go to mosques. Religion's place in identity is most significant for Jews (54%) and Muslims (30%), compared to Catholics (6%), and has decreased among Muslims in 11 years".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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France said it will ban children from wearing the abaya in state-run schools. Abayas are loose-fitted and full-length robes, that are mostly worn by some Muslim women.

France said it will ban children from wearing the abaya in state-run schools. Abayas are loose-fitted and full-length robes, that are mostly worn by some Muslim women. The decision has garnered both applause and criticism. The government spokesman said that wearing abaya dresses is a "political attack". Mixed reactions to the ban French education minister Gabriel Attal said that the long, flowing dresses that originated in the Middle East would no longer be allowed in schools in the new term because they violate secular laws. He also said that the government was clear that abayas "did not belong in schools" and that "schools are being tested". The minister added, "These last few months, violations of our secular rules have considerably increased, particularly with regard to the wearing of religious clothing such as abayas or qamis which have appeared - and remained - in some establishments." Meanwhile, a government spokesman Olivier Veran said it was "obviously" a religious garment and "a political attack, a political sign" which he saw as an act of "proselytising" or trying to convert to Islam. "School is secular. We say it in a very calm but firm way: it is not the place for that (wearing religious clothing)," he told the BFM TV channel. Also read: Saudi Arabia to execute man for criticising government on X account with only nine followers As quoted by the news agency Reuters, sociologist Agnes De Feo said the ban was "dangerous" since it would only lead to Muslim people feeling even more stigmatised. During a conversation with France Inter radio, Sophie Venetitay, the head of the secondary school teachers union SNES-FSU, said the ban should not distract people from seeing more important issues schools are facing: "It should not mask all the problems schools have during this back-to-school season." Eric Ciotti, who is the head of the conservative Les Republicains party, welcomed the move. Ciotti stressed that his group had repeatedly asked for it. On the other hand, Clementine Autain, an MP for the hard-left France Insoumise, slammed the decision. She called the decision by the government "clothes police" and a move "characteristic of an obsessional rejection of Muslims". The SNPDEN-UNSA union of school principals welcomed the move, saying what it needed above all was clarity, its national secretary, Didier Georges, told Reuters. Georges said, "What we wanted from ministers was: yes or no? We're satisfied because a decision was made. We would have been equally happy if the decision had been to authorise the abaya." Also read: Swedish-Russian national accused of espionage, supplying western tech to Moscow A history of strict dress rules in France In French schools, women have long been banned from wearing the headscarf. The European nation has enforced a strict ban on religious signs in state schools since 19th-century laws removed any traditional Catholic influence from public education, but it, to some extent, struggled to update guidelines for the Muslim minority. In 2004, France banned headscarves in schools, which was followed by thousands of people, many of them women wearing headscarves, marching on the street to protest the law banning Islamic coverings and other religious apparel in public schools. The polls stated that a substantial majority of French citizens supported the prohibition. French secular rules, which are aimed at ensuring equality in public institutions, forbade schoolchildren from wearing "signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in 2004. This includes large Christian crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves. It is now illegal for students to display overt religious or political affiliation through the use of items like the Jewish skullcap, the Islamic hijab, or oversized Christian crosses. In 2010, France passed a ban on full-face veils in public and the nation brought in a complete ban on clothing that includes full-face coverings, including the burkha and niqab. These cannot be worn in any public space in France and invite a fine of €150 ($162). Such bans have remained a matter of controversy and the latest announcement, the decision to ban abayas, has sparked a new debate about France's secular rules and whether they are used to discriminate against the country's large Muslim minority. Watch: Libya foreign minister Najla Mangoush suspended after talks with Israel × Muslim population in France in 2023 According to the figures by the national statistics bureau, INSEE, Muslims made up 10 per cent of the French population in 2023. They represented 10 per cent of the French population in 2019 - 2020. A total of 29 per cent of the population, aged 18 to 59, declared themselves Catholic, 10 per cent Muslim, 10 per cent other religions and 51 per cent had no religion. The report added that the "immigrants coming from traditionally Muslim countries are more engaged in religion," whereas those from European (with the exception of Portugal) or Asian countries reported being religiously affiliated less frequently. "Only 20% of the Muslims regularly go to mosques," said INSEE. "Religion's place in identity is clearly most significant for Jews (54%) and Muslims (30%), compared to Catholics (6%), and has decreased among Muslims in 11 years." INSEE said that "only 20% of the Muslims regularly go to mosques. Religion's place in identity is most significant for Jews (54%) and Muslims (30%), compared to Catholics (6%), and has decreased among Muslims in 11 years". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: France bans abaya robes in schools. All you need to know

The French education minister said on Sunday (August 27) that the nation will ban children from wearing the abaya, which is the loose-fitting, full-length robes worn by some Muslim women, in state-run schools. The announcement was made just ahead of the back-to-school season. &nbsp;

Education Minister Gabriel Attal told TF1 television that it will no longer be "possible to wear an abaya at school". He added that he would give "clear rules at the national level" to school heads ahead of the return to classes nationwide from September 4.&nbsp;

Women have long been banned from wearing the Islamic headscarf and this decision came after months of debate over the wearing of abayas in French schools.&nbsp;

France has enforced a strict ban on religious signs in state schools since 19th-century laws removed any traditional Catholic influence from public education. However, the nation has struggled to update guidelines to deal with the Muslim minority.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a>&nbsp;

"Secularism means the freedom to emancipate oneself through school," Attal said, further adding that the abaya is "a religious gesture, aimed at testing the resistance of the republic toward the secular sanctuary that school must constitute".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"You enter a classroom, you must not be able to identify the religion of the students by looking at them," he said.&nbsp;

"Wearing of signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in schools has been banned by a law of March 2004. It includes large crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japan-postpones-moon-sniper-mission-due-to-wind-conditions-629785">Japan postpones 'Moon Sniper' mission due to wind conditions</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song&nbsp;

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<h2>What is an abaya?&nbsp;</h2>

Many are familiar with the headscarves, but the abaya is different. It is a long, baggy garment worn to comply with Islamic beliefs on modest dressing. It has occupied a grey area and has faced no outright ban until now.&nbsp;

The French education ministry had already issued a circular on the issue in November last year, calling the abaya as one of a group of items of clothing whose wearing could be banned if they were "worn in a manner as to openly display a religious affiliation". The circular put bandanas and long skirts in the same category.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The French education minister said on Sunday (August 27) that the nation will ban children from wearing the abaya, which is the loose-fitting, full-length robes worn by some Muslim women, in state-run schools.

The French education minister said on Sunday (August 27) that the nation will ban children from wearing the abaya, which is the loose-fitting, full-length robes worn by some Muslim women, in state-run schools. The announcement was made just ahead of the back-to-school season. Education Minister Gabriel Attal told TF1 television that it will no longer be "possible to wear an abaya at school". He added that he would give "clear rules at the national level" to school heads ahead of the return to classes nationwide from September 4. Women have long been banned from wearing the Islamic headscarf and this decision came after months of debate over the wearing of abayas in French schools. France has enforced a strict ban on religious signs in state schools since 19th-century laws removed any traditional Catholic influence from public education. However, the nation has struggled to update guidelines to deal with the Muslim minority. Also read: 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil "Secularism means the freedom to emancipate oneself through school," Attal said, further adding that the abaya is "a religious gesture, aimed at testing the resistance of the republic toward the secular sanctuary that school must constitute". "You enter a classroom, you must not be able to identify the religion of the students by looking at them," he said. "Wearing of signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" in schools has been banned by a law of March 2004. It includes large crosses, Jewish kippas and Islamic headscarves. Also read: Japan postpones 'Moon Sniper' mission due to wind conditions Watch: Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × What is an abaya? Many are familiar with the headscarves, but the abaya is different. It is a long, baggy garment worn to comply with Islamic beliefs on modest dressing. It has occupied a grey area and has faced no outright ban until now. The French education ministry had already issued a circular on the issue in November last year, calling the abaya as one of a group of items of clothing whose wearing could be banned if they were "worn in a manner as to openly display a religious affiliation". The circular put bandanas and long skirts in the same category. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French authorities to ban wearing abayas in schools

The decision to expel the ambassador was made in response to acts taken by the French government that were "contrary to the interests of Niger," according to a statement from the foreign ministry established by the junta. It claimed that among them was the envoy's denial of a request to speak with Niger's new foreign minister.

Junta: Response to France's action's contrary to Niger's interests

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors. If convicted, the former French president could face up to 10 years in prison. The trial will delve into evidence suggesting that Sarkozy, along with 12 co-defendants, engaged in a conspiracy to unlawfully secure funds from Gaddafi to support his successful 2007 presidential bid.&nbsp;"There's not even the smallest inkling of proof," he reportedly said in a 2018 interview.&nbsp;

<h2>Denial of allegations</h2>

Sarkozy, a right-wing politician who has encountered numerous legal challenges since his single term as president from 2007 to 2012, vehemently denies the allegations involving Libyan funding.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-with-prigozhin-dead-wagner-groups-bloodied-past-tumultuous-present-uncertain-future-629170">With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present &amp; uncertain future</a>

These allegations stand as the most severe legal issue he currently faces. Despite being convicted twice for corruption and influence-peddling in separate cases related to attempts to manipulate a judge and campaign financing, Sarkozy has contested both verdicts through appeals.

<h2>Prominent figures among co-defendants</h2>

Several significant figures are among the co-defendants who will face trial for their alleged involvement in the Libyan funding scandal. These include Claude Gueant, Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Eric Woerth, the former head of campaign financing, and Brice Hortefeux, a former minister.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-wildfires-are-worst-in-europe-in-decades-says-eu-backed-climate-service-629165">Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service</a>

The investigation was triggered by revelations from the investigative platform Mediapart, which released a document purportedly indicating that Gaddafi had agreed to provide Sarkozy with up to 50 million euros ($54 million based on current exchange rates).

The prosecutor's office has announced that the first hearing is designated for March 7, 2024. The trial is planned between January 6, 2025, and April 10, 2025, according to the information provided. After his unsuccessful appeal in May, 68-year-old Sarkozy's 2021 conviction on charges of corruption and influence peddling stands. His legal team has expressed their intention to contest this verdict at France's highest court, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>Sarkozy-Gaddafi relations&nbsp;</h2>

Sarkozy and Gaddafi shared an unexpectedly amicable relationship, exemplified by Gaddafi setting up his Bedouin tent across from the Elysee Palace during a state visit to France shortly after Sarkozy's election. Sarkozy's recent activities have rekindled attention in France, with the release of the second volume of his memoirs and his suggestions regarding the recognition of Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories following last year's Kremlin-led invasion.

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He has also expressed his stance that Crimea, which has been annexed by Russia, will remain under Russian control, dismissing the possibility of reverting to the pre-annexation status quo.

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Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors.

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors. If convicted, the former French president could face up to 10 years in prison. The trial will delve into evidence suggesting that Sarkozy, along with 12 co-defendants, engaged in a conspiracy to unlawfully secure funds from Gaddafi to support his successful 2007 presidential bid. "There's not even the smallest inkling of proof," he reportedly said in a 2018 interview. Denial of allegations Sarkozy, a right-wing politician who has encountered numerous legal challenges since his single term as president from 2007 to 2012, vehemently denies the allegations involving Libyan funding. Also Read | With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present & uncertain future These allegations stand as the most severe legal issue he currently faces. Despite being convicted twice for corruption and influence-peddling in separate cases related to attempts to manipulate a judge and campaign financing, Sarkozy has contested both verdicts through appeals. Prominent figures among co-defendants Several significant figures are among the co-defendants who will face trial for their alleged involvement in the Libyan funding scandal. These include Claude Gueant, Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Eric Woerth, the former head of campaign financing, and Brice Hortefeux, a former minister. Also Read | Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service The investigation was triggered by revelations from the investigative platform Mediapart, which released a document purportedly indicating that Gaddafi had agreed to provide Sarkozy with up to 50 million euros ($54 million based on current exchange rates). The prosecutor's office has announced that the first hearing is designated for March 7, 2024. The trial is planned between January 6, 2025, and April 10, 2025, according to the information provided. After his unsuccessful appeal in May, 68-year-old Sarkozy's 2021 conviction on charges of corruption and influence peddling stands. His legal team has expressed their intention to contest this verdict at France's highest court, reported Reuters. Sarkozy-Gaddafi relations Sarkozy and Gaddafi shared an unexpectedly amicable relationship, exemplified by Gaddafi setting up his Bedouin tent across from the Elysee Palace during a state visit to France shortly after Sarkozy's election. Sarkozy's recent activities have rekindled attention in France, with the release of the second volume of his memoirs and his suggestions regarding the recognition of Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories following last year's Kremlin-led invasion. Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg × He has also expressed his stance that Crimea, which has been annexed by Russia, will remain under Russian control, dismissing the possibility of reverting to the pre-annexation status quo. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Trial looms for ex-French President Sarkozy over alleged illicit funding from Gaddafi for election campaign

President Emmanuel Macron's government in France has earmarked 200 million euros (approximately $216 million) to support the disposal of excess wine within the country.&nbsp;

The whopping financial allocation aims to assist struggling producers facing reduced demand.&nbsp;

<h2>Why there is an excess of wine in France?</h2>

This is because the cost of producing the wine has outstripped its current selling price, leading wineries to experience losses for each bottle sold.&nbsp;

This challenge has been particularly pronounced in the Bordeaux region due to a combination of rising living costs, reduced demand post-Covid, and a hot European summer.

In response to this issue, the French government is facilitating the destruction of surplus wine, with the option to repurpose the alcohol for products like perfume or cleaning items.&nbsp;

French Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said that the initiative seeks to prevent price collapses and rejuvenate revenue streams for winemakers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-police-destroy-35000-champagne-bottles-over-naming-violations-596640">France police destroy 35,000 ‘champagne’ bottles over naming violations</a>

Fesneau reportedly said that the&nbsp;initiative is "aimed at stopping prices collapsing and so that winemakers can find sources of revenue again."

Fesneau urged winemakers to plan for a sustainable future and adapt their businesses accordingly.

<h2>How much money has been allocated to get rid of excess wine?</h2>

To address the situation in Bordeaux, the agriculture ministry unveiled a 57-million-euro fund in June to support the removal of around 9,500 hectares of vineyards in the region.&nbsp;

Producers are being encouraged to diversify their crops, such as considering olives. Originally, the EU allocated 160 million euros for the wine disposal effort, with the French government supplementing the fund to reach 200 million euros.

Also watch |&nbsp;World of Food: How wine took over the world

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Despite ongoing challenges, French wine and spirits were standout exports from the country in 2022.&nbsp;

The Federation of French Wine and Spirits Exporters reported a record-breaking 17.2 billion euros in exports for French wine and spirits, marking a 10.8 per cent increase compared to 2021.

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President Emmanuel Macron's government in France has earmarked 200 million euros (approximately $216 million) to support the disposal of excess wine within the country.

President Emmanuel Macron's government in France has earmarked 200 million euros (approximately $216 million) to support the disposal of excess wine within the country. The whopping financial allocation aims to assist struggling producers facing reduced demand. Why there is an excess of wine in France? This is because the cost of producing the wine has outstripped its current selling price, leading wineries to experience losses for each bottle sold. This challenge has been particularly pronounced in the Bordeaux region due to a combination of rising living costs, reduced demand post-Covid, and a hot European summer. In response to this issue, the French government is facilitating the destruction of surplus wine, with the option to repurpose the alcohol for products like perfume or cleaning items. French Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said that the initiative seeks to prevent price collapses and rejuvenate revenue streams for winemakers. Also read | France police destroy 35,000 ‘champagne’ bottles over naming violations Fesneau reportedly said that the initiative is "aimed at stopping prices collapsing and so that winemakers can find sources of revenue again." Fesneau urged winemakers to plan for a sustainable future and adapt their businesses accordingly. How much money has been allocated to get rid of excess wine? To address the situation in Bordeaux, the agriculture ministry unveiled a 57-million-euro fund in June to support the removal of around 9,500 hectares of vineyards in the region. Producers are being encouraged to diversify their crops, such as considering olives. Originally, the EU allocated 160 million euros for the wine disposal effort, with the French government supplementing the fund to reach 200 million euros. Also watch | World of Food: How wine took over the world × Despite ongoing challenges, French wine and spirits were standout exports from the country in 2022. The Federation of French Wine and Spirits Exporters reported a record-breaking 17.2 billion euros in exports for French wine and spirits, marking a 10.8 per cent increase compared to 2021. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France spends $216 million to dispose off some of the world’s best wine

A dig in France to find remains of dozens of occupying German troops who are said to have been executed in central France by Resistance fighters during Second World War failed to yield anything, said authorities on Thursday (August 24).

"The area turned out to be empty following the excavation. Rocky veins 1.7 metres (six feet) below ground could explain the radar echoes recorded at the spot," the prefecture in the Correze department said.

In July, local authorities had said that a potential "mass grave" was identified near Meymac in Correze after a 98-year-old former Resistance fighter went public with claims of the killings.&nbsp;

In the 1960s, 11 bodies had been recovered. It was believed that the group of prisoners had 46 Germans and a Frenchwoman who was suspected to be collaborating with them.

Former fighter Edmond Reveil told AFP that the small Resistance group, with only around 30 members, had to kill the Germans because it did not have the means to keep them prisoner.

"If we had let the Germans go, they would have destroyed Meymac," he said.

The most recent search of the wooded area had yielded some World War 2-era relics. These included 20 bullets and cartridge casings from pre-1944 French, German, American and Swiss weapons, in addition to five pre-1943 coins.

"These elements confirm the presence of a group of Resistance fighters at this spot in 1944," the prefecture said.

Nevertheless, "searches around where these objects were found did not allow identification of any human remains," it added.

The Franco-German combined effort at the dig has been called off. However, the prefecture has said that a further analysis by ground-penetrating radar with the help of topographical data as well as historical documents. It added that any new information can prompt further digs.

France's National Office for Former Fighters and War Victims (ONACVG) led this month's search, in cooperation with Germany's VDK war graves authority.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A dig in France to find remains of dozens of occupying German troops who are said to have been executed in central France by Resistance fighters during Second World War failed to yield anything, said authorities on Thursday (August 24).

A dig in France to find remains of dozens of occupying German troops who are said to have been executed in central France by Resistance fighters during Second World War failed to yield anything, said authorities on Thursday (August 24). "The area turned out to be empty following the excavation. Rocky veins 1.7 metres (six feet) below ground could explain the radar echoes recorded at the spot," the prefecture in the Correze department said. In July, local authorities had said that a potential "mass grave" was identified near Meymac in Correze after a 98-year-old former Resistance fighter went public with claims of the killings. In the 1960s, 11 bodies had been recovered. It was believed that the group of prisoners had 46 Germans and a Frenchwoman who was suspected to be collaborating with them. Former fighter Edmond Reveil told AFP that the small Resistance group, with only around 30 members, had to kill the Germans because it did not have the means to keep them prisoner. "If we had let the Germans go, they would have destroyed Meymac," he said. The most recent search of the wooded area had yielded some World War 2-era relics. These included 20 bullets and cartridge casings from pre-1944 French, German, American and Swiss weapons, in addition to five pre-1943 coins. "These elements confirm the presence of a group of Resistance fighters at this spot in 1944," the prefecture said. Nevertheless, "searches around where these objects were found did not allow identification of any human remains," it added. The Franco-German combined effort at the dig has been called off. However, the prefecture has said that a further analysis by ground-penetrating radar with the help of topographical data as well as historical documents. It added that any new information can prompt further digs. France's National Office for Former Fighters and War Victims (ONACVG) led this month's search, in cooperation with Germany's VDK war graves authority. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

France: Excavation for remains of German WW2 soldiers fails to yield anything

Lionel Messi wasn't on the scoresheet for the first time as an Inter Miami player, but he still had two assists as his side beat MLS Eastern Conference Leaders FC Cincinnati in a penalty shootout to reach the U.S Open cup final. Is Messi still the best player in the world?

Messi leads Inter Miami to the US open final

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).&nbsp;

This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border.&nbsp;

<h2>Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report</h2>

A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments.

“It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations&nbsp;“unfounded”.&nbsp;

“The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the report about?</h2>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-undertakes-mass-killings-of-migrants-crossing-border-claims-report-627474">73-page report</a> titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650.&nbsp;

The report contains the testimony of&nbsp;migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims.&nbsp;

HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources.

<h2>Countries’ response to report</h2>

The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan.

“We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano.&nbsp;

The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. &nbsp;

The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify.

Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22).

Ethiopia will launch a joint investigation with Saudi Arabia into allegations made by a human rights group that hundreds of migrants from their country were killed by Saudi border guards, said the Ethiopian foreign ministry, on Tuesday (August 22). This comes a day after a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Saudi border guards of mass killings of migrants along the Yemeni border. Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia on the HRW report A day after the HRW report was published, the Ethiopian foreign ministry released a statement and said, “The Government of Ethiopia will promptly investigate the incident in tandem with Saudi Authorities.” It also went on to emphasise the strong relations between the two governments. “It is highly advised to exercise utmost restraint from making unnecessary speculations until the investigation is complete,” the statement added. Meanwhile, a Saudi government source who spoke to AFP called the allegations “unfounded”. “The allegations included in the Human Rights Watch report about Saudi border guards shooting Ethiopians while they were crossing the Saudi-Yemeni border are unfounded and not based on reliable sources,” the anonymous source told the news agency. What was the report about? The 73-page report titled “They Fired On Us Like Rain” has sparked global outrage after its publication by the United States-based rights monitor. The researchers at the institute said it is impossible to know the precise number of migrants killed but gave a ballpark figure of over 650. The report contains the testimony of migrants who say they were shot at using guns and targeted using explosive weapons as well. The Saudi border guards did not even spare women and children and often took sadistic pleasure in asking migrants what limb they wanted to get shot at, the report claims. HRW interviewed as many as 42 migrants, including 38 Ethiopians who attempted to cross the Yemen-Saudi border between March 2022 and June 2023. The organisation also analysed over 350 videos and photographs posted on social media and other sources. Countries’ response to report The European Commission, on Tuesday, said it would raise the report’s findings with the Saudi government and the Houthi authorities in Yemen, and welcomed the joint probe plan. “We welcome the announcement by the government of Ethiopia, specifically, to investigate the whole issue together with the authorities in Saudi Arabia,” said Commission spokesman Peter Stano. The United States called on its long-time ally Saudi Arabia for “a thorough and transparent investigation” into the accusations. The United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric called the report “very concerning” and noted that the “serious” allegations will be difficult to verify. Similarly, the French foreign ministry also urged a transparent probe and said it would raise the issue of human rights in Yemen and Saudi Arabia with the Saudi authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia to investigate alleged migrant killings 'in tandem' with Saudi Arabia

Record-breaking heatwave hits France, with temperatures expected to peak at 40-42 degrees Celsius in the Rhone valley region. Forest fires and heat warnings are in place. People in France endured a late summer heatwave on Monday, with record temperatures expected in the wine-growing Rhone valley region.

France on red alert: Intense and long-lasting heatwave creating ‘heat dome’

Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup. Coach Fabien Galthie also included exciting 20-year-old wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey and newly capped loose forward Paul Boudehent when he revealed the squad on French television’s lunch time news on Monday.

He is also gambling on the fitness of prop Cyril Baille, who suffered calf injury a fortnight ago in the warm-up test win over Scotland at St Etienne, and Anthony Jelonch, who has been working his way back to fitness. Baille was originally ruled out for between four to six weeks but has remained with the French squad as the medical staff seek to hasten his recovery.

Flanker Jelonch has not played since rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament during the Six Nations showdown against Scotland in February but has been deemed fit enough to play at the World Cup. Notable omissions from the squad are Brice Dulin, who captained the team against Scotland in their first warm-up test at Murrayfield earlier this month, and scrumhalf Baptiste Serin.

Playing his first test for more than a year, Jaminet’s accurate kicking saw him propel France to a 34-17 win over Fiji on Saturday and work his way into the squad. Bielle-Biarrey has had a rapid rise and won three caps in successive weeks in the warm-up internationals while 23-year-old Boudehent comes into the squad after impressive performances with European champions La Rochelle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-aaron-rodgers-to-make-new-york-jets-debut-vs-giants-in-preseason-finale-sources-627587">NFL: Aaron Rodgers to make New York Jets debut vs Giants in preseason finale - Sources</a>

Antoine Hastoy and Matthieu Jalibert are the two flyhalfs who will jostle for the starting berth in the opening game against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8 after Romain Ntamack was ruled out by injury last week.

Thomas Ramos, expected to start at fullback, could also fill that role if needed. Paul Willemse, who missed out on the last World Cup in Japan four years ago because of injury, was selected this time, having return successfully from injury in the test against Fiji.

Squad

Backs: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Begles), Baptiste Couilloud (Lyon), Jonathan Danty (La Rochelle), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt.), Gael Fickou (Racing 92), Antoine Hastoy (La Rochelle), Matthieu Jalibert (Bordeaux-Begles), Melvyn Jaminet (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu, Yoram Moefana, Damian Penaud (all Bordeaux-Begles), Thomas Ramos (Toulouse), Gabin Villiere (Toulon), Arthur Vincent (Montpellier)

Forwards: Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Gregory Alldritt, Uini Atonio (both La Rochelle), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent, Pierre Bourgarit (both La Rochelle), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Sipili Falatea (Bordeaux-Begles), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Sekou Macalou (Stade Francais), Julien Marchand, Peato Mauvaka (both Toulouse), Charles Ollivon (Toulon), Romain Taofifenua (Lyon), Reda Wardi (La Rochelle), Paul Willemse (Montpellier), Cameron Woki (Racing 92).

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Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup.

Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup. Coach Fabien Galthie also included exciting 20-year-old wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey and newly capped loose forward Paul Boudehent when he revealed the squad on French television’s lunch time news on Monday. He is also gambling on the fitness of prop Cyril Baille, who suffered calf injury a fortnight ago in the warm-up test win over Scotland at St Etienne, and Anthony Jelonch, who has been working his way back to fitness. Baille was originally ruled out for between four to six weeks but has remained with the French squad as the medical staff seek to hasten his recovery. Flanker Jelonch has not played since rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament during the Six Nations showdown against Scotland in February but has been deemed fit enough to play at the World Cup. Notable omissions from the squad are Brice Dulin, who captained the team against Scotland in their first warm-up test at Murrayfield earlier this month, and scrumhalf Baptiste Serin. Playing his first test for more than a year, Jaminet’s accurate kicking saw him propel France to a 34-17 win over Fiji on Saturday and work his way into the squad. Bielle-Biarrey has had a rapid rise and won three caps in successive weeks in the warm-up internationals while 23-year-old Boudehent comes into the squad after impressive performances with European champions La Rochelle. Also read: NFL: Aaron Rodgers to make New York Jets debut vs Giants in preseason finale - Sources Antoine Hastoy and Matthieu Jalibert are the two flyhalfs who will jostle for the starting berth in the opening game against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8 after Romain Ntamack was ruled out by injury last week. Thomas Ramos, expected to start at fullback, could also fill that role if needed. Paul Willemse, who missed out on the last World Cup in Japan four years ago because of injury, was selected this time, having return successfully from injury in the test against Fiji. Squad Backs: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Begles), Baptiste Couilloud (Lyon), Jonathan Danty (La Rochelle), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt.), Gael Fickou (Racing 92), Antoine Hastoy (La Rochelle), Matthieu Jalibert (Bordeaux-Begles), Melvyn Jaminet (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu, Yoram Moefana, Damian Penaud (all Bordeaux-Begles), Thomas Ramos (Toulouse), Gabin Villiere (Toulon), Arthur Vincent (Montpellier) Forwards: Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Gregory Alldritt, Uini Atonio (both La Rochelle), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent, Pierre Bourgarit (both La Rochelle), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Sipili Falatea (Bordeaux-Begles), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Sekou Macalou (Stade Francais), Julien Marchand, Peato Mauvaka (both Toulouse), Charles Ollivon (Toulon), Romain Taofifenua (Lyon), Reda Wardi (La Rochelle), Paul Willemse (Montpellier), Cameron Woki (Racing 92). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby: World Cup hosts France announce final 33-man squad

General Jean-Louis Georgelin, 74, died on Friday in the Pyrenees mountain range straddling the France-Spain border, said the prosecutor's office in the southern French city of Foix.

A mountain rescue team deployed to the Mont-Valier peak "discovered the body of a man who has been formally identified as General Georgelin", a spokesman said, adding that an accident was the likely cause.

Notre-Dame has lost "the overseer of its rebirth" and France "one of its great servants", President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter, now rebranded as X.

Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo hailed Georgelin on the same social media platform for creating "the human and organisational conditions for successfully completing the reconstruction of Notre-Dame".

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A five-star general who was the French army's chief-of-staff between 2006 and 2010, Georgelin supervised operations in Ivory Coast, Afghanistan, the Balkans and Lebanon.

In 2020, Macron chose him to lead the complex and expensive reconstruction work on Notre-Dame. 
 
The cathedral, one of the French capital's most famous landmarks, was gutted by a blaze that shocked the world the previous year.

Georgelin, a practising Catholic whose motto was "move forward without procrastinating", said Notre-Dame's new spire would be completed by the end of the year. 
 
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General Jean-Louis Georgelin, 74, died on Friday in the Pyrenees mountain range straddling the France-Spain border, said the prosecutor's office in the southern French city of Foix.

General Jean-Louis Georgelin, 74, died on Friday in the Pyrenees mountain range straddling the France-Spain border, said the prosecutor's office in the southern French city of Foix. A mountain rescue team deployed to the Mont-Valier peak "discovered the body of a man who has been formally identified as General Georgelin", a spokesman said, adding that an accident was the likely cause. Notre-Dame has lost "the overseer of its rebirth" and France "one of its great servants", President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter, now rebranded as X. Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo hailed Georgelin on the same social media platform for creating "the human and organisational conditions for successfully completing the reconstruction of Notre-Dame". Watch | Explore the Notre Dame cathedral in Virtual Reality × A five-star general who was the French army's chief-of-staff between 2006 and 2010, Georgelin supervised operations in Ivory Coast, Afghanistan, the Balkans and Lebanon. In 2020, Macron chose him to lead the complex and expensive reconstruction work on Notre-Dame. The cathedral, one of the French capital's most famous landmarks, was gutted by a blaze that shocked the world the previous year. Georgelin, a practising Catholic whose motto was "move forward without procrastinating", said Notre-Dame's new spire would be completed by the end of the year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France: Former army chief entrusted with Notre-Dame reconstruction found dead

French prosecutors on Wednesday officially charged four individuals with involuntary manslaughter. They have been charged over the tragic incident in which a migrant boat capsized in the English Channel over the past weekend. The tragedy led to the death of at least six migrants.

<h2>Who has been charged?</h2>

Talking to news agency AFP, an unnamed judicial source revealed that the suspects who have been charged — two Iraqis and two Sudanese individuals — were detained shortly after the boat which was carrying 65 people capsized in the Channel, early on Saturday.

Along with involuntary slaughter, the suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy for illegal immigration. Furthermore, the charged Iraqi citizens are suspected of being part of a human trafficking network.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-killed-55-rescued-after-boat-carrying-migrants-capsizes-in-channel-624852">Six killed, 55 rescued after boat carrying migrants capsizes in Channel</a>

<h2>What caused the vessel to sink?</h2>

As per the Paris prosecutor's office, investigators have determined that an engine malfunction and the choppy waters of the busy shipping lane led to the tragic incident. The fact that most of the passengers did not have access to life jackets contributed to the tragedy.

French authorities, as per AFP, said that the vessel's passengers were primarily of Afghan descent, along with some Sudanese and "a few minors".

The shipwreck was initially discovered by a commercial vessel, which promptly alerted the relevant authorities.

Both British and French coast guards launched rescue efforts. They could only rescue 59 people. While it is believed that six people lost their lives in the tragedy, the death toll remains provisional.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-channel-crossings-in-last-5-years-cross-100000-mark-uk-data-624616">Migrant channel crossings in last 5 years cross 100,000 mark: UK interior ministry data</a>

The French coast guard managed to rescue 38 individuals, while the British coast guard rescued 23 others.

This incident, as per AFP, marks one of the deadliest tragedies in the English Channel since November 2021, when 27 migrants lost their lives.&nbsp;

The tragedy prompted tensions and discussions between Britain and France about which nation had more responsibility for preventing such disasters.&nbsp;

Official figures unveiled last Friday revealed that over 100,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel on small boats from France to southeastern England since the numbers started being recorded in 2018.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French prosecutors on Wednesday officially charged four individuals with involuntary manslaughter. They have been charged over the tragic incident in which a migrant boat capsized in the English Channel over the past weekend.

French prosecutors on Wednesday officially charged four individuals with involuntary manslaughter. They have been charged over the tragic incident in which a migrant boat capsized in the English Channel over the past weekend. The tragedy led to the death of at least six migrants. Who has been charged? Talking to news agency AFP, an unnamed judicial source revealed that the suspects who have been charged — two Iraqis and two Sudanese individuals — were detained shortly after the boat which was carrying 65 people capsized in the Channel, early on Saturday. Along with involuntary slaughter, the suspects face charges of criminal conspiracy for illegal immigration. Furthermore, the charged Iraqi citizens are suspected of being part of a human trafficking network. Also read | Six killed, 55 rescued after boat carrying migrants capsizes in Channel What caused the vessel to sink? As per the Paris prosecutor's office, investigators have determined that an engine malfunction and the choppy waters of the busy shipping lane led to the tragic incident. The fact that most of the passengers did not have access to life jackets contributed to the tragedy. French authorities, as per AFP, said that the vessel's passengers were primarily of Afghan descent, along with some Sudanese and "a few minors". The shipwreck was initially discovered by a commercial vessel, which promptly alerted the relevant authorities. Both British and French coast guards launched rescue efforts. They could only rescue 59 people. While it is believed that six people lost their lives in the tragedy, the death toll remains provisional. Also read | Migrant channel crossings in last 5 years cross 100,000 mark: UK interior ministry data The French coast guard managed to rescue 38 individuals, while the British coast guard rescued 23 others. This incident, as per AFP, marks one of the deadliest tragedies in the English Channel since November 2021, when 27 migrants lost their lives. The tragedy prompted tensions and discussions between Britain and France about which nation had more responsibility for preventing such disasters. Official figures unveiled last Friday revealed that over 100,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel on small boats from France to southeastern England since the numbers started being recorded in 2018. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Four charged over tragic migrant boat capsizing in English Channel

A wildfire in France triggered the evacuation of more than 3,000 people from a holiday campsite near the Spanish border. The regional authorities later informed that the fire was contained, but the situation remains precarious.

French firefighters battle to contain wildfire near border with Spain | WION Climate Tracker

Two drunken tourists from the United States were on Monday (Aug 13) discovered sleeping atop the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris after evading security the night before, said the monument's operator on Tuesday.

Security guards awakened the men "early morning" at the time they were making their routine rounds before the famous tourist spot's opening time at 9:00 am, news agency AFP cited publicly-owned Eiffel Tower operator Sete as saying.

They "appear to have got stuck because of how drunk they were," as per a Paris prosecutor.

The drunk American men had spent their outlawed night under the stars in an area which is generally not open to the public between the tower's second and third levels, but "did not pose any apparent threat," Sete further said.

As per a police source, the tourists jumped security barriers while climbing down the stairs from the tower's top after paying for the entry ticket around 10:40 pm on Sunday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hillary-clinton-felt-great-profound-sadness-over-donald-trumps-multiple-legal-woes-625922">Hillary Clinton felt 'great profound sadness' over Donald Trump's multiple legal woes</a>

Firefighters, including a specialist unit for recovering people from dangerous heights, were sent to recover the intruders, the police source further added.

Both men were brought to the police station in Paris' seventh district for interrogation, while Sete said that they would file a criminal complaint against the interlopers.

The incident delayed the famous site's opening to the public for around an hour on Monday morning.

<h2>Bomb threats force evacuation</h2>

On Saturday (August 12), the Eiffel Tower was evacuated and closed to the public as a precautionary measure following a bomb threat for nearly two hours.

According to a report by Le Parisien, a French daily newspaper, a large security perimeter had been established, traffic diverted and the monument was also evacuated.&nbsp;

However, two hours or so later, a French police source released a statement saying that “It was a false alarm, people can go back inside”.&nbsp;

Some of the tourists, who came in droves during the peak summer season at the iconic Paris monument, said they were irked by the two-hour closure. This was after they waited in a nearly 100-metre queue at one of the entrances before the threat was called off.

The last bomb threat called in at the Eiffel Tower was in September 2020 and was an anonymous call made to the police that prompted an evacuation of the tower, which also lasted about two hours.&nbsp;

On Monday, an email with a bomb threat against the 330-metre (1080 feet) steel tower was sent to three Paris police stations but police advised against evacuating it.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Two drunken tourists from the United States were on Monday (Aug 13) discovered sleeping atop the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris after evading security the night before, said the monument's operator on Tuesday.

Two drunken tourists from the United States were on Monday (Aug 13) discovered sleeping atop the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris after evading security the night before, said the monument's operator on Tuesday. Security guards awakened the men "early morning" at the time they were making their routine rounds before the famous tourist spot's opening time at 9:00 am, news agency AFP cited publicly-owned Eiffel Tower operator Sete as saying. They "appear to have got stuck because of how drunk they were," as per a Paris prosecutor. The drunk American men had spent their outlawed night under the stars in an area which is generally not open to the public between the tower's second and third levels, but "did not pose any apparent threat," Sete further said. As per a police source, the tourists jumped security barriers while climbing down the stairs from the tower's top after paying for the entry ticket around 10:40 pm on Sunday. Also read: Hillary Clinton felt 'great profound sadness' over Donald Trump's multiple legal woes Firefighters, including a specialist unit for recovering people from dangerous heights, were sent to recover the intruders, the police source further added. Both men were brought to the police station in Paris' seventh district for interrogation, while Sete said that they would file a criminal complaint against the interlopers. The incident delayed the famous site's opening to the public for around an hour on Monday morning. Bomb threats force evacuation On Saturday (August 12), the Eiffel Tower was evacuated and closed to the public as a precautionary measure following a bomb threat for nearly two hours. According to a report by Le Parisien, a French daily newspaper, a large security perimeter had been established, traffic diverted and the monument was also evacuated. However, two hours or so later, a French police source released a statement saying that “It was a false alarm, people can go back inside”. Some of the tourists, who came in droves during the peak summer season at the iconic Paris monument, said they were irked by the two-hour closure. This was after they waited in a nearly 100-metre queue at one of the entrances before the threat was called off. The last bomb threat called in at the Eiffel Tower was in September 2020 and was an anonymous call made to the police that prompted an evacuation of the tower, which also lasted about two hours. On Monday, an email with a bomb threat against the 330-metre (1080 feet) steel tower was sent to three Paris police stations but police advised against evacuating it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Drunk American tourists found sleeping atop Eiffel Tower after dodging security

As Europe continues to face record-breaking heatwaves, southern France is hit by a severe drought. over 300,000 people in the region are facing heavy water supply disruption. On the other hand, some 67 communes are now receiving water by tanker and another 18 by bottles.

300,000 face water shortage as drought ravages France | WION Climate Tracker

In a devastating incident that occurred early Sunday (August 13), a fire engulfed a residential building located in the central district of Grasse, a renowned city in the French Riviera.

The blaze killed three people, while leaving three others in critical condition and four with minor injuries.

The fire, now extinguished, inflicted significant damage on the upper floors of the five-story building, casting a shadow over the picturesque town known for its fragrance heritage, reported AFP.&nbsp;

The origin of the fire, which tore through the historical heart of Grasse, remains shrouded in uncertainty.

The edifice's top three levels bore the brunt of the flames, with the exterior partially charred. The stairwell suffered the most substantial impact, while the individual units endured smoke-related harm, according to Jean-Christophe Demarte, leading the rescue operation, who spoke to AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-in-paris-evacuated-after-bomb-threat-reports-624867">Eiffel Tower in Paris briefly evacuated after bomb threat: Reports</a>

<h2>Emergency response </h2>

Local residents sounded the alarm, prompting firefighters to rush to the scene at approximately 3:00 am (0100 GMT).

Tragically, one life was lost as a person leapt from the building, while two more bodies were discovered within its confines.

Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes, including a woman's urgent cries for assistance and a man's desperate fall while attempting to escape the inferno.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Six dead after migrant boat capsizes crossing from France to UK

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<h2>Heart of the old town</h2>

Situated in a vibrant square within Grasse's old town, the ill-fated building was a hub of activity during the summer months, attracting both tourists and locals.

The charming locale, adorned with eateries, a fountain, and charming pedestrian pathways, now bears the scars of the calamity that unfolded.

Jerome Viaud, the city's mayor, clarified that while the building did not exhibit structural deficiencies, plans for renovations were slated for October, focusing on communal spaces and the facade.

Although speculation about the fire's cause abounds, Viaud emphasised the need for patience as investigators seek to determine whether the incident was accidental or malicious in nature.

Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the root cause of the tragic fire. The city's prosecutor confirmed that a probe is currently underway to shed light on the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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In a devastating incident that occurred early Sunday (August 13), a fire engulfed a residential building located in the central district of Grasse, a renowned city in the French Riviera.

In a devastating incident that occurred early Sunday (August 13), a fire engulfed a residential building located in the central district of Grasse, a renowned city in the French Riviera. The blaze killed three people, while leaving three others in critical condition and four with minor injuries. The fire, now extinguished, inflicted significant damage on the upper floors of the five-story building, casting a shadow over the picturesque town known for its fragrance heritage, reported AFP. The origin of the fire, which tore through the historical heart of Grasse, remains shrouded in uncertainty. The edifice's top three levels bore the brunt of the flames, with the exterior partially charred. The stairwell suffered the most substantial impact, while the individual units endured smoke-related harm, according to Jean-Christophe Demarte, leading the rescue operation, who spoke to AFP. Also read | Eiffel Tower in Paris briefly evacuated after bomb threat: Reports Emergency response Local residents sounded the alarm, prompting firefighters to rush to the scene at approximately 3:00 am (0100 GMT). Tragically, one life was lost as a person leapt from the building, while two more bodies were discovered within its confines. Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes, including a woman's urgent cries for assistance and a man's desperate fall while attempting to escape the inferno. Also watch | UK: Six dead after migrant boat capsizes crossing from France to UK Heart of the old town Situated in a vibrant square within Grasse's old town, the ill-fated building was a hub of activity during the summer months, attracting both tourists and locals. The charming locale, adorned with eateries, a fountain, and charming pedestrian pathways, now bears the scars of the calamity that unfolded. Jerome Viaud, the city's mayor, clarified that while the building did not exhibit structural deficiencies, plans for renovations were slated for October, focusing on communal spaces and the facade. Although speculation about the fire's cause abounds, Viaud emphasised the need for patience as investigators seek to determine whether the incident was accidental or malicious in nature. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the root cause of the tragic fire. The city's prosecutor confirmed that a probe is currently underway to shed light on the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Fatal building fire kills three in French Riviera city of Grasse

The Eiffel Tower and also its surroundings in the French Capital Paris were evacuated and this was done as a precautionary measure following a bomb threat. Now the French police have said that this was a false alarm and people were allowed to go back inside after the bomb disposal experts gone through the tower.

False bomb alarm prompts brief Eiffel Tower closure in Paris, France

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