In Pics: France’s most-visited monument Notre Dame Cathedral being restored after being gutted by fire

<p>According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago. Lametti said in an email to AFP, "I am aware that an extradition request sent to France has been made public, which ministry officials have just confirmed. It is important for Canada and its international partners that serious crimes are fully investigated and prosecuted."</p>

<p>The request was acknowledged as having been received by the French Foreign Ministry, which added that justice officials were handling it. The announcement follows Pope Francis' historic visit to Canada, where he expressed regret for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run schools.</p>

<p>A new complaint for a sexual assault that took place about 47 years ago was made in September, and as a result, an arrest warrant for priest Johannes Rivoire, who spent three decades in Canada's far north, has been out there since February. Authorities have not disclosed the number of suspected victims, and he has never been charged.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-hanging-drowning-holding-on-ravaging-kentucky-floods-lead-to-dramatic-rescues-503448">In pics | Hanging, drowning, holding on: Ravaging Kentucky floods lead to dramatic rescues</a></p>

<p>Between 1998 and 2017, Rivoire was the target of an arrest warrant for the sex abuse of three juveniles. It was never implemented. The priest moved to Lyon, France, from Canada in 1993. According to a person familiar with the issue, Rivoire's dual citizenship poses "a problem" because it is "very complicated" to extradite French citizens. In recent media interviews, the 93-year-old priest insisted he is innocent. His case continues to serve as a symbol of the Church's tolerance of sexual abuse in the northern part of Canada.</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago.

According to Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti, Canada has asked for the extradition of a French priest who is accused of molesting Indigenous children more than 30 years ago. Lametti said in an email to AFP, "I am aware that an extradition request sent to France has been made public, which ministry officials have just confirmed. It is important for Canada and its international partners that serious crimes are fully investigated and prosecuted." The request was acknowledged as having been received by the French Foreign Ministry, which added that justice officials were handling it. The announcement follows Pope Francis' historic visit to Canada, where he expressed regret for the decades-long abuse of Indigenous children in Catholic-run schools. A new complaint for a sexual assault that took place about 47 years ago was made in September, and as a result, an arrest warrant for priest Johannes Rivoire, who spent three decades in Canada's far north, has been out there since February. Authorities have not disclosed the number of suspected victims, and he has never been charged. Also Read: In pics | Hanging, drowning, holding on: Ravaging Kentucky floods lead to dramatic rescues Between 1998 and 2017, Rivoire was the target of an arrest warrant for the sex abuse of three juveniles. It was never implemented. The priest moved to Lyon, France, from Canada in 1993. According to a person familiar with the issue, Rivoire's dual citizenship poses "a problem" because it is "very complicated" to extradite French citizens. In recent media interviews, the 93-year-old priest insisted he is innocent. His case continues to serve as a symbol of the Church's tolerance of sexual abuse in the northern part of Canada. (with inputs from agencies)

Canada requests extradition of French priest accused of molesting indigenous children

<p>A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community. People still find it difficult to accept the LGBTQ community despite years, if not decades, of advocacy. Now, to represent France's voice in the ongoing struggle Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has announced that the French government will soon create an ambassador's post promoting LGBTQ rights across the world.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Chinese company's 'coming-out kit' to help LGBTQ community</strong></p>

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<p>AFP reports that on the 40th anniversary of France's repeal of a statute discriminating against homosexuals from the World War II era, Borne told an audience that the new envoy will coordinate the foreign ministry's policies and serve as "France's voice" for the advancement of LGBTQ rights.</p>

<p>As per her "the battle for the minds is not yet won," and the discrimination against the community "continues to exclude, injure and sometimes even kill" people.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/lgbt-community-parade-in-madrid-demanding-end-of-animal-cruelty-496131">In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty</a></strong></p>

<p>She also acknowledged that "hurtful comments" were made by members of President Emmanuel Macron's government in the past, but assured that no such "ambivalence" exists now. This is believed to be a reference to a 2013 comment by &nbsp;Regional Affairs Minister Caroline Cayeux, who joined the government in a reshuffle last month.</p>

<p>Speaking in the Senate, Cayeux had said that the proposed legalisation of gay marriage was "against nature."&nbsp;Then, in an apparent effort to defend herself, last month she said: "I have to say that I have a lot of friends among those people," the statement once again incited fury.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-in-major-blow-to-lgbtq-rights-court-rules-same-sex-marriage-ban-is-not-unconstitutional-489900">Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional</a></strong></p>

<p>During a visit to an LGBTQ centre in Orleans, central France, PM Borne announced that the ambassador will be named by the end of the year.&nbsp;The envoy will "campaign for the decriminalisation everywhere of homosexuality and trans-identity," added Borne.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community.

A sensitive approach is required while addressing LGBTQ rights. Not because of the individuals who are part of the community, but because of those outside the community. People still find it difficult to accept the LGBTQ community despite years, if not decades, of advocacy. Now, to represent France's voice in the ongoing struggle Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has announced that the French government will soon create an ambassador's post promoting LGBTQ rights across the world. Watch | Chinese company's 'coming-out kit' to help LGBTQ community AFP reports that on the 40th anniversary of France's repeal of a statute discriminating against homosexuals from the World War II era, Borne told an audience that the new envoy will coordinate the foreign ministry's policies and serve as "France's voice" for the advancement of LGBTQ rights. As per her "the battle for the minds is not yet won," and the discrimination against the community "continues to exclude, injure and sometimes even kill" people. Also read | In pics: LGBT community parade in Madrid demanding end of animal cruelty She also acknowledged that "hurtful comments" were made by members of President Emmanuel Macron's government in the past, but assured that no such "ambivalence" exists now. This is believed to be a reference to a 2013 comment by Regional Affairs Minister Caroline Cayeux, who joined the government in a reshuffle last month. Speaking in the Senate, Cayeux had said that the proposed legalisation of gay marriage was "against nature." Then, in an apparent effort to defend herself, last month she said: "I have to say that I have a lot of friends among those people," the statement once again incited fury. Also read | Japan: In major blow to LGBTQ rights, court rules same-sex marriage ban is not unconstitutional During a visit to an LGBTQ centre in Orleans, central France, PM Borne announced that the ambassador will be named by the end of the year. The envoy will "campaign for the decriminalisation everywhere of homosexuality and trans-identity," added Borne. (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 steps up for LGBTQ rights, to appoint an ambassador by the end of this year

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<p>Usually found in the frigid cold waters of the Arctic, a beluga whale on Tuesday strayed into the polluted Seine river, near the dam of the Léry-Poses camping and leisure site in the northern part of France.</p>

<p>The protected species animal was stuck in the river which flows through Paris to the channel. Despite the authorities attempting to guide the whale, it hasn't been able to find its way. Experts are worried that the longer it stays in fresh water, away from its natural cold, icy water habitat, the lower will be its chances of survival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When quizzed about the health of the mammal, authorities said that studies were underway. “Studies of its health are underway to determine the best measures to take to ensure its chances of survival,” said officials in the Eure department of Normandy.</p>

<p>The authorities also added that it is rare for a beluga to stray into these parts but sometimes during migration, a lone whale can lose its way and end up here.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, the public has been advised to not approach the beluga whale as it will cause unnecessary stress to it.</p>

<p><strong>Beluga whales and their migration patterns</strong></p>

<p>It is believed that an adult beluga can reach up to four metres (13 feet) in length. They are found throughout the Arctic Ocean and its adjoining seas, including the Sea of Okhotsk, the Bering Sea, Hudson Bay and several other spots.</p>

<p>Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/caught-on-cam-terrifying-moment-when-huge-whale-landed-on-a-small-boat-500836" target="_blank">Caught on cam: Terrifying moment when huge whale landed on a small boat</a></p>

<p>The migration pattern differs for different varieties of beluga whales. While some prefer to chase the ice packs towards the south in the autumn, some entire north.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, a group of approximately 55,000 beluga whales started their migration to the shallow waters of Hudson Bay. It is stated that beluga's that spend their summer months in Hudson bay often migrate north during the winter season for the open bay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-one-of-natures-greatest-events-a-party-of-over-150-ocean-giants-signals-hope-for-vulnerable-species-495564" target="_blank">&nbsp;In 'one of nature's greatest events' a party of over 150 ocean giants, signals hope for vulnerable species</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Usually found in the frigid cold waters of the Arctic, a beluga whale on Tuesday strayed into the polluted Seine river, near the dam of the Léry-Poses camping and leisure site in the northern part of France.

Usually found in the frigid cold waters of the Arctic, a beluga whale on Tuesday strayed into the polluted Seine river, near the dam of the Léry-Poses camping and leisure site in the northern part of France. The protected species animal was stuck in the river which flows through Paris to the channel. Despite the authorities attempting to guide the whale, it hasn't been able to find its way. Experts are worried that the longer it stays in fresh water, away from its natural cold, icy water habitat, the lower will be its chances of survival. When quizzed about the health of the mammal, authorities said that studies were underway. “Studies of its health are underway to determine the best measures to take to ensure its chances of survival,” said officials in the Eure department of Normandy. The authorities also added that it is rare for a beluga to stray into these parts but sometimes during migration, a lone whale can lose its way and end up here. Reportedly, the public has been advised to not approach the beluga whale as it will cause unnecessary stress to it. Beluga whales and their migration patterns It is believed that an adult beluga can reach up to four metres (13 feet) in length. They are found throughout the Arctic Ocean and its adjoining seas, including the Sea of Okhotsk, the Bering Sea, Hudson Bay and several other spots. Also watch: Caught on cam: Terrifying moment when huge whale landed on a small boat The migration pattern differs for different varieties of beluga whales. While some prefer to chase the ice packs towards the south in the autumn, some entire north. Earlier this week, a group of approximately 55,000 beluga whales started their migration to the shallow waters of Hudson Bay. It is stated that beluga's that spend their summer months in Hudson bay often migrate north during the winter season for the open bay. Read More: In 'one of nature's greatest events' a party of over 150 ocean giants, signals hope for vulnerable species (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

A beluga whale drifts into polluted Seine river in France; efforts underway to guide it back

<p>Following similar incidents in Britain and France, Spanish police are investigating a string of cases of women being injected with possibly spiked syringes in crowded clubs.</p>

<p>Raising fears that sexual predators might have found a variant on spiking drinks to prey on women, the attacks have been reported to police or on social media over the past few weeks.</p>

<p>According to the Spanish police, no traces of drugs or other toxic products have been detected and no cases of related sexual violence reported.</p>

<p>However, 23 cases of 'needle spiking' have been reported in Catalonia and 12 in the Basque Country.</p>

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<p>The Basque police highlighted that young women feel a needle prick in the arm or leg when they are partying and then become dizzy or drowsy.</p>

<p>Asking people to report such incidents, the police have recommended that targeted people should go to a health centre as soon as possible.</p>

<p>During the Pamplona bull-running festival, Spain registered its first attacks while a rash of "needle spiking" cases was reported in France this year and in Britain in 2021.</p>

<p>The French Interior Ministry launched a national awareness campaign in June with club-goers expressing fear on social networks and media coverage fueling anxiety.</p>

<p>After a sudden surge in such incidents last year, the British parliament issued a report in April on drink and needle spiking in pubs and nightclubs.</p>

<p>Following the return of students to campus, British police reported about 1,000 cases of needle injection across the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Following similar incidents in Britain and France, Spanish police are investigating a string of cases of women being injected with possibly spiked syringes in crowded clubs.

Following similar incidents in Britain and France, Spanish police are investigating a string of cases of women being injected with possibly spiked syringes in crowded clubs. Raising fears that sexual predators might have found a variant on spiking drinks to prey on women, the attacks have been reported to police or on social media over the past few weeks. According to the Spanish police, no traces of drugs or other toxic products have been detected and no cases of related sexual violence reported. However, 23 cases of 'needle spiking' have been reported in Catalonia and 12 in the Basque Country. × The Basque police highlighted that young women feel a needle prick in the arm or leg when they are partying and then become dizzy or drowsy. Asking people to report such incidents, the police have recommended that targeted people should go to a health centre as soon as possible. During the Pamplona bull-running festival, Spain registered its first attacks while a rash of "needle spiking" cases was reported in France this year and in Britain in 2021. The French Interior Ministry launched a national awareness campaign in June with club-goers expressing fear on social networks and media coverage fueling anxiety. After a sudden surge in such incidents last year, the British parliament issued a report in April on drink and needle spiking in pubs and nightclubs. Following the return of students to campus, British police reported about 1,000 cases of needle injection across the country. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

After France, Spain reports string of cases of 'needle spiking' attacks on women

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">As per the weather services of France and England, July was the driest on record, which exacerbated the shortage of water that has led to the restrictions. Water firms are finding it difficult to adapt to the dry circumstances. The third heatwave is expected to hit this summer on Monday in the southeast before moving to Paris.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">Just 9.7 millimetres of rain fell in France this month, which is suffering from a severe drought that has crippled farmers and forced broad restrictions on the use of water, as per Meteo France. According to the EPA, that was 84 per cent below the average levels seen for July between 1991 and 2022, making it the second-driest month since March 1961.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extreme-heatwaves-in-uk-made-10-times-more-likely-due-to-climate-change-501704">Extreme heatwaves in UK made 10 times more likely due to climate change</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">The average amount of rain in England as a whole was 23.1 millimetres, which is the seventh-lowest monthly total since the year 1953. The record-breaking high temperatures, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the country, coincided with the minimal rainfall in both countries. The majority of England has entered a state of prolonged dry weather.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Most climate experts agree that the earth is warming as a result of carbon emissions from people burning fossil fuels, potentially increasing the severity of droughts, heatwaves, and other weather events.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-heatwave-continues-across-europe-warning-issues-over-very-high-ozone-pollution-498998">As heatwave continues across Europe, warning issued over 'very high' ozone pollution</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Due to dry grasslands, farmers in France are having trouble feeding the animals, and irrigation has been prohibited due to lack of water. Commercial boats on the eastern river Rhine, which forms the boundary between France and Germany, are forced to operate at a third of their carrying capacity in order to avoid hitting the bottom due to extremely low water levels.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As per the weather services of France and England, July was the driest on record, which exacerbated the shortage of water that has led to the restrictions. Water firms are finding it difficult to adapt to the dry circumstances.

As per the weather services of France and England, July was the driest on record, which exacerbated the shortage of water that has led to the restrictions. Water firms are finding it difficult to adapt to the dry circumstances. The third heatwave is expected to hit this summer on Monday in the southeast before moving to Paris. Just 9.7 millimetres of rain fell in France this month, which is suffering from a severe drought that has crippled farmers and forced broad restrictions on the use of water, as per Meteo France. According to the EPA, that was 84 per cent below the average levels seen for July between 1991 and 2022, making it the second-driest month since March 1961. Also read | Extreme heatwaves in UK made 10 times more likely due to climate change The average amount of rain in England as a whole was 23.1 millimetres, which is the seventh-lowest monthly total since the year 1953. The record-breaking high temperatures, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the country, coincided with the minimal rainfall in both countries. The majority of England has entered a state of prolonged dry weather. Most climate experts agree that the earth is warming as a result of carbon emissions from people burning fossil fuels, potentially increasing the severity of droughts, heatwaves, and other weather events. Also read | As heatwave continues across Europe, warning issued over 'very high' ozone pollution Due to dry grasslands, farmers in France are having trouble feeding the animals, and irrigation has been prohibited due to lack of water. Commercial boats on the eastern river Rhine, which forms the boundary between France and Germany, are forced to operate at a third of their carrying capacity in order to avoid hitting the bottom due to extremely low water levels. (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 and England experienced driest July on record exacerbating water shortage

The impact of Putin's gas war on Europe is being felt widely. German cities have dimmed street lights. Italy is asking people to dial down air conditioning. France plans to ban illuminated advertising. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: How Putin's gas war is hurting Europe

<p>As a result of the war in Ukraine and the drought in Canada, mustard seeds are in short supply in France. The few French consumers who have been able to find mustard in stores are paying a premium, since retail prices have increased by 14% this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some French farmers want to take advantage of the chance to increase their domestic mustard seed production.</p>

<p>If not outrage, then at least a great deal of unease has been raised by the strange disappearance of mustard from store shelves in France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since losing the condiment that gives a steak frites edge, life to a grilled sausage, depth to a vinaigrette, and richness to mayonnaise, France has been searching for substitutes in quiet desperation.</p>

<p>The candidates now include shallots, horseradish, wasabi, Worcestershire sauce, and even creams of Roquefort.</p>

<p>Some people feel personally affected by the severe weather that destroyed the supply of mustard seeds in and outside of France, as well as by the supply chain disruptions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, which are still having an impact today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Calls to domestically produce mustard seeds are being made in response to the shortage in order to rely less on foreign suppliers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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As a result of the war in Ukraine and the drought in Canada, mustard seeds are in short supply in France. The few French consumers who have been able to find mustard in stores are paying a premium, since retail prices have increased by 14% this year.

As a result of the war in Ukraine and the drought in Canada, mustard seeds are in short supply in France. The few French consumers who have been able to find mustard in stores are paying a premium, since retail prices have increased by 14% this year. Some French farmers want to take advantage of the chance to increase their domestic mustard seed production. If not outrage, then at least a great deal of unease has been raised by the strange disappearance of mustard from store shelves in France. Since losing the condiment that gives a steak frites edge, life to a grilled sausage, depth to a vinaigrette, and richness to mayonnaise, France has been searching for substitutes in quiet desperation. The candidates now include shallots, horseradish, wasabi, Worcestershire sauce, and even creams of Roquefort. Some people feel personally affected by the severe weather that destroyed the supply of mustard seeds in and outside of France, as well as by the supply chain disruptions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, which are still having an impact today. Calls to domestically produce mustard seeds are being made in response to the shortage in order to rely less on foreign suppliers. (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 faces mustard shortage, prices shoot up, locals scour for substitutes

French President Emmanuel Macron warmly welcomed Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for talks in Paris. This is MBS's first visit to Europe since the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

French President Macron warmly welcomed Saudi Crown Prince MBS for talks in Paris

Saudi crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman is on his first visit to Europe since the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. After Greece, MBS visited France where he was hosted by president Emmanuel Macron.

Saudi Crown Prince meets President Emmanuel Macron

Saudi crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman is on his first visit to Europe since the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. He's set to hold talks with president Emmanuel Macron.

Saudi crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman to visit France

French president Emmanuel Macron has also met with Benin's president Patrice Talon. The meeting was about France providing air support and intelligence to help Benin combat militant groups.

France to provide air defence support & intelligence to Benin

Africa's longest-serving political dynasty is facing lawsuits. Gabon's Bongo family faces probe in France & US. Paris cracks down on its former colony & family battles over property in US. How did a family from small African nation earn so much? Molly Gambhir brings you Full Context.

The Full Context| Omar Bongo: Gabon's late president faces charges in France

<p>Only two years are left for the Paris Olympics to kick off, but there are already widespread concerns over security, financial, venue and staffing concerns. The top government officials are particularly concerned about the security situation ever since the chaotic scenes unfolded at the Stade de France during the Champions League final.</p>

<p>The aftermath of the Liverpool and Real Madrid threw up some chaotic scenes which, according to a French government report last month, highlighted multiple failures in the management of the crowd, inadequate communications between public transport operators and police, and a lack of suitable routes to the ground.</p>

<p>The Guardian, quoting a report from French newspaper Le Monde, has reported that the unique security challenge of the opening Olympics ceremony is already giving organisers “cold sweats”.</p>

<p>A former police chief said the security problems were “far from resolved”, describing it as “a dangerous moment”.</p>

<p>According to Le Journal du Dimanche, another French newspaper, security provisions for the ceremony include police divers, mine clearance teams, special forces on standby and “a particular effort around control of the city’s airspace to preclude drone attacks”.</p>

<p>A 1976 Olympic gold medallist and a member of the International Olympic Committee since 1996, Guy Drut, criticised the ceremony as unnecessarily risky.</p>

<p>“The idea is great…But in today’s climate, there are just too many uncertainties. Why isn’t there a plan B?” he told the newspaper.</p>

<p>“We could have the same ceremony, watched by more people, on the Champ de Mars [near the Eiffel Tower]. That would be easier to keep safe.”</p>

<p>However, French interior minister Gerald Darmanin has asserted that “lessons have been learned” from the fiasco and insisted that Olympic crowd management issues are “very different from those of a football match.”</p>

<p>Security is not the only reason the organisers are having nightmares about. Russia’s war in Ukraine has led to shortages of essential building supplies for the Olympic village while spiralling inflation threatens to derail the event’s €8bn budget – already nearly €2bn more than the 2015 bid estimate of €6.2bn, reports The Guardian.</p>

<p>According to the report, a confidential audit note circulated last week and seen by the public broadcaster France Info warned of a significant risk for budget overruns, saying “strong, difficult and bold decisions” would need to be taken this autumn to rein in the cost of the Games.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Only two years are left for the Paris Olympics to kick off, but there are already widespread concerns over security, financial, venue and staffing concerns. The top government officials are particularly concerned about the security situation ever since the chaotic scenes unfolded at the Stade de France during the Champions League final.

Only two years are left for the Paris Olympics to kick off, but there are already widespread concerns over security, financial, venue and staffing concerns. The top government officials are particularly concerned about the security situation ever since the chaotic scenes unfolded at the Stade de France during the Champions League final. The aftermath of the Liverpool and Real Madrid threw up some chaotic scenes which, according to a French government report last month, highlighted multiple failures in the management of the crowd, inadequate communications between public transport operators and police, and a lack of suitable routes to the ground. The Guardian, quoting a report from French newspaper Le Monde, has reported that the unique security challenge of the opening Olympics ceremony is already giving organisers “cold sweats”. A former police chief said the security problems were “far from resolved”, describing it as “a dangerous moment”. According to Le Journal du Dimanche, another French newspaper, security provisions for the ceremony include police divers, mine clearance teams, special forces on standby and “a particular effort around control of the city’s airspace to preclude drone attacks”. A 1976 Olympic gold medallist and a member of the International Olympic Committee since 1996, Guy Drut, criticised the ceremony as unnecessarily risky. “The idea is great…But in today’s climate, there are just too many uncertainties. Why isn’t there a plan B?” he told the newspaper. “We could have the same ceremony, watched by more people, on the Champ de Mars [near the Eiffel Tower]. That would be easier to keep safe.” However, French interior minister Gerald Darmanin has asserted that “lessons have been learned” from the fiasco and insisted that Olympic crowd management issues are “very different from those of a football match.” Security is not the only reason the organisers are having nightmares about. Russia’s war in Ukraine has led to shortages of essential building supplies for the Olympic village while spiralling inflation threatens to derail the event’s €8bn budget – already nearly €2bn more than the 2015 bid estimate of €6.2bn, reports The Guardian. According to the report, a confidential audit note circulated last week and seen by the public broadcaster France Info warned of a significant risk for budget overruns, saying “strong, difficult and bold decisions” would need to be taken this autumn to rein in the cost of the Games. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

With only two years left for Paris Olympics, security and cost overrun fears loom large

France is planning to make climate labels compulsory for all clothes by 2023. The label is expected to help consumers make conscious decision. Can climate impact of each garment really be tracked? Listen in to Palki Sharma

Gravitas: France to make climate label compulsory for all clothes

<p>Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France. The animals have already suffered and some of them have been weakened due to the heat. They were shifted to a zoo in central France.</p>

<p>Monkeys were evacuated first as burning trees affected their natural habitat. As per media reports, the evacuation was tricky as special arrangements had to be made to safely transport the animals.</p>

<p>Wildfires raging in France have also destroyed campsites in the wooded area as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mostly debris, walls and a swimming pool were left of the campsite La Foret du Pilat, a stone’s throw away from the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune.</p>

<p>Firefighters on Wednesday checked the campsite to locate and mark any gas containers left behind by campers.</p>

<p>“The purpose is to secure them so that the companies that come for clean-up can do so safely,” firefighter captain Gilles Elschger said.</p>

<p>Firefighters in the southwest Gironde department have been battling since July 12 to tame the flames, which have so far ravaged nearly 50,904 acres (20,600 hectares) of land, the local prefecture said on Wednesday (July 20).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France.

Raging wildfires are severely impacting the wildlife in France. On Tuesday, 363 animals from the Arachon Zoo had to be evacuated. The zoo is located in western France. The animals have already suffered and some of them have been weakened due to the heat. They were shifted to a zoo in central France. Monkeys were evacuated first as burning trees affected their natural habitat. As per media reports, the evacuation was tricky as special arrangements had to be made to safely transport the animals. Wildfires raging in France have also destroyed campsites in the wooded area as well. Mostly debris, walls and a swimming pool were left of the campsite La Foret du Pilat, a stone’s throw away from the Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune. Firefighters on Wednesday checked the campsite to locate and mark any gas containers left behind by campers. “The purpose is to secure them so that the companies that come for clean-up can do so safely,” firefighter captain Gilles Elschger said. Firefighters in the southwest Gironde department have been battling since July 12 to tame the flames, which have so far ravaged nearly 50,904 acres (20,600 hectares) of land, the local prefecture said on Wednesday (July 20). (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: Raging wildfires force evacuation of 363 animals from zoo

<p>Next year onwards, all clothing items sold in France would require a label containing information about the precise climate impact the manufacture has had. It is expected that a similar rule would come into effect in the European Union by 2026.</p>

<p>This may mean clothing brands would have to juggle many data points: &nbsp;Where and how were its raw materials grown? What was used to colour it? How far did it travel? Was the factory powered with solar energy or coal?</p>

<p>The French Agency for Ecological Transition (Ademe) is currently testing 11 proposals for how to collect and compare data — and what the resulting label might look like to consumers — using 500 real-life items of clothing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The message of the law is clear — it will become obligatory, so brands need to prepare, to make their products traceable, to organise the automatic collection of data,” Erwan Autret, one of the coordinators at Ademe, told AFP.</p>

<p>“Some say the models are too simple, some say they’re too complicated, but it’s a sign of the maturity of the debate that no one questions the need for these calculations anymore.”</p>

<p>As per United Nations, the fashion industry is responsible for 10 per cent of global carbon emissions. It is also responsible for a significant portion of water consumption and waste.</p>

<p>Campaigners say that labels can go a long way to address the environmental impact.</p>

<p>“It will force brands to be more transparent and informed... to collect data and create long-term relationships with their suppliers — all things they’re not used to doing,” said Victoire Satto, of The Good Goods, It is a media agency focused on sustainable fashion.</p>

<p>“Right now it seems infinitely complex,” she added. “But we’ve seen it applied in other industries such as medical supplies.”</p>

<p>A presentation by Paris-based textiles conference, Premiere Vision, put emphasis on new processes that included non-toxic leather tanning, dyes from fruits and waste and even biodegradable underwear.</p>

<p>But Ariane Bigot, Premiere Vision’s deputy head of fashion, said that the key to sustainability is using the right fabric for the right garment.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
That means synthetic and oil-based fabrics will still have a place, she said: “A strong synthetic with a very long lifespan might be right for some uses, such as an over-garment that needs little washing.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Capturing all these trade-offs in one simple label on an item of clothing is therefore tricky.</p>

<p>“It’s very complicated,” said Bigot. “But we need to get the machine started.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Next year onwards, all clothing items sold in France would require a label containing information about the precise climate impact the manufacture has had. It is expected that a similar rule would come into effect in the European Union by 2026.

Next year onwards, all clothing items sold in France would require a label containing information about the precise climate impact the manufacture has had. It is expected that a similar rule would come into effect in the European Union by 2026. This may mean clothing brands would have to juggle many data points: Where and how were its raw materials grown? What was used to colour it? How far did it travel? Was the factory powered with solar energy or coal? The French Agency for Ecological Transition (Ademe) is currently testing 11 proposals for how to collect and compare data — and what the resulting label might look like to consumers — using 500 real-life items of clothing. “The message of the law is clear — it will become obligatory, so brands need to prepare, to make their products traceable, to organise the automatic collection of data,” Erwan Autret, one of the coordinators at Ademe, told AFP. “Some say the models are too simple, some say they’re too complicated, but it’s a sign of the maturity of the debate that no one questions the need for these calculations anymore.” As per United Nations, the fashion industry is responsible for 10 per cent of global carbon emissions. It is also responsible for a significant portion of water consumption and waste. Campaigners say that labels can go a long way to address the environmental impact. “It will force brands to be more transparent and informed... to collect data and create long-term relationships with their suppliers — all things they’re not used to doing,” said Victoire Satto, of The Good Goods, It is a media agency focused on sustainable fashion. “Right now it seems infinitely complex,” she added. “But we’ve seen it applied in other industries such as medical supplies.” A presentation by Paris-based textiles conference, Premiere Vision, put emphasis on new processes that included non-toxic leather tanning, dyes from fruits and waste and even biodegradable underwear. But Ariane Bigot, Premiere Vision’s deputy head of fashion, said that the key to sustainability is using the right fabric for the right garment. That means synthetic and oil-based fabrics will still have a place, she said: “A strong synthetic with a very long lifespan might be right for some uses, such as an over-garment that needs little washing.” Capturing all these trade-offs in one simple label on an item of clothing is therefore tricky. “It’s very complicated,” said Bigot. “But we need to get the machine started.” (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 ×

In France, clothes to carry labels with climate impact info

<p>A Frenchman who transformed himself into an alien and calls himself as “Black Alien” is now struggling to find a job. He says that he is finding it difficult to make a living as people are judging him based on how he looks.</p>

<p>Anthony Loffredo is covered with dark tattoos, including his eyeballs. Apart from that, he has undergone massive body transformation, such as splitting his tongue to give it a forked appearance, to resemble more like a fictionalised version of aliens that are depicted in pop culture. He also had his two fingers amputated to make his left hand resemble a claw.</p>

<p>Loffredo started experimenting with his looks at the age of 27. And in seven years, he has managed to garner 1.2 million Instagram followers.</p>

<p>But despite having a massive following on social media, Loffredo in real life is facing a lot of stigma because of how “strange” he looks.</p>

<p>He recently opened up about the difficulties in the Club 113&nbsp;podcast. Independent news outlet’s Indy100 quoted him saying, “I can’t find a job, there’s lots of negative stuff. It could be positive because you feel better, but you have to know there’s also a dark side.”</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd1c320rrtU/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by BŁλ₡ƙ λŁłE₦ PƦØJE₡₸ EVØŁU₸łØ₦🚷 (@the_black_alien_project)</a></p>
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<p>He also talked about the people’s reactions when he encounters them on the streets and at times how it becomes difficult to deal with them.</p>

<p>It’s a fight every day, because every day you find new people who don’t understand, who want to judge. It’s life, not everyone understands everything. Like me, I don’t understand lots of things about lots of people. You can’t judge someone, no one knows what’s inside someone’s head, why they’re doing that, you need to talk with this person,” Loffredo said.</p>

<p>He asserted that he is just a normal guy who wants to be treated like a normal person.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“I’m a normal guy, I work, I have a family… I like being looked at like a normal guy with a job, with a family, who has a friend, girlfriend, all of that. That’s what makes me normal,” Loffredo said.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A Frenchman who transformed himself into an alien and calls himself as “Black Alien” is now struggling to find a job. He says that he is finding it difficult to make a living as people are judging him based on how he looks.

A Frenchman who transformed himself into an alien and calls himself as “Black Alien” is now struggling to find a job. He says that he is finding it difficult to make a living as people are judging him based on how he looks. Anthony Loffredo is covered with dark tattoos, including his eyeballs. Apart from that, he has undergone massive body transformation, such as splitting his tongue to give it a forked appearance, to resemble more like a fictionalised version of aliens that are depicted in pop culture. He also had his two fingers amputated to make his left hand resemble a claw. Loffredo started experimenting with his looks at the age of 27. And in seven years, he has managed to garner 1.2 million Instagram followers. But despite having a massive following on social media, Loffredo in real life is facing a lot of stigma because of how “strange” he looks. He recently opened up about the difficulties in the Club 113 podcast. Independent news outlet’s Indy100 quoted him saying, “I can’t find a job, there’s lots of negative stuff. It could be positive because you feel better, but you have to know there’s also a dark side.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by BŁλ₡ƙ λŁłE₦ PƦØJE₡₸ EVØŁU₸łØ₦🚷 (@the_black_alien_project) × He also talked about the people’s reactions when he encounters them on the streets and at times how it becomes difficult to deal with them. It’s a fight every day, because every day you find new people who don’t understand, who want to judge. It’s life, not everyone understands everything. Like me, I don’t understand lots of things about lots of people. You can’t judge someone, no one knows what’s inside someone’s head, why they’re doing that, you need to talk with this person,” Loffredo said. He asserted that he is just a normal guy who wants to be treated like a normal person. “I’m a normal guy, I work, I have a family… I like being looked at like a normal guy with a job, with a family, who has a friend, girlfriend, all of that. That’s what makes me normal,” Loffredo said. (With inputs from agencies)

France’s ‘Black Alien’ struggling to make a living, opens up about hardships

Many people are mesmerised by the wonders of Egypt, especially the great pyramids of Giza. Only one problem. Travelling has become too expensive nowadays, but not to worry, a museum in France, is hoping to make your dreams come true without the hustle of making hefty travel plans. Tourists can now go to the heart of ancient Egypt, through an immersive virtual reality experience at Paris' Arab world institute.

World Of Africa: Take a virtual tour of ancient Egypt from Paris

Firefighters across southern Europe battled on Sunday to control huge wildfires in countries including Spain, Greece and France, where thousands of people have been evacuated in soaring temperatures.

France, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Morocco battle wildfires amid intense heat

<p>The heirs of a 19th-century sultanate are attempting to take Malaysian government assets all over the world, despite a stay of the case issued by a French judge.&nbsp;Talking to Reuters their attorneys said that the heirs&nbsp;are merely&nbsp;attempting&nbsp;to execute a $14.9 billion arbitration verdict they had&nbsp;obtained against the Southeast Asian country. The verdict in question is in connection to a land deal from the colonial era.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Sultan in question had made a deal with a British trading company in 1878 to allow the company to exploit resources in the territory he controlled, including what is now the oil-rich Malaysian state of Sabah, on the northern tip of Borneo. After gaining independence from Britain, Malaysia took over the deal giving the heirs who are&nbsp;Philippine nationals an annual token fee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;World in Pictures: Ukrainian cargo plane crashes in Greece; Spain, Portugal battle wildfires</strong></p>

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<p>However, the payments were terminated in 2013, with Malaysia claiming that Sabah belonged to its territory and that no one else had any claim to it.&nbsp;The heirs who assert that they are the last Sultan of Sulu's successors-in-interest filed a case soon after.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In order to resolve the conflict over the land deal, a French arbitration court ordered Malaysia to pay the amount to the lineal descendants of the last Sultan of Sulu in February.</p>

<p>However, Malaysia announced on Wednesday that a Paris Court of Appeal has stayed the verdict after concluding that the award's execution may violate the nation's sovereignty.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/good-guy-with-a-gun-3-killed-in-mass-shooting-in-indiana-armed-onlooker-saves-the-day-498318">'Good guy with a gun': 3 killed in mass shooting in Indiana, armed onlooker saves the day</a></strong></p>

<p>The stay, according to law minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, would stop the award from being implemented while Malaysia seeks to overturn the decision. Malaysia hadn't previously taken part in the arbitration.</p>

<p>However, attorneys for the claimants assert that the February judgement is still enforceable outside of France under the New York Convention, an international arbitration agreement ratified by 170 nations.</p>

<p>According to Paul Cohen, the heirs' principal co-counsel at the London-based law firm 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, "the'stay' that seems to comfort the Malaysian government temporarily delays local enforcement in one country, France itself," adding "It does not apply to the other 169."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The heirs of a 19th-century sultanate are attempting to take Malaysian government assets all over the world, despite a stay of the case issued by a French judge.

The heirs of a 19th-century sultanate are attempting to take Malaysian government assets all over the world, despite a stay of the case issued by a French judge. Talking to Reuters their attorneys said that the heirs are merely attempting to execute a $14.9 billion arbitration verdict they had obtained against the Southeast Asian country. The verdict in question is in connection to a land deal from the colonial era. The Sultan in question had made a deal with a British trading company in 1878 to allow the company to exploit resources in the territory he controlled, including what is now the oil-rich Malaysian state of Sabah, on the northern tip of Borneo. After gaining independence from Britain, Malaysia took over the deal giving the heirs who are Philippine nationals an annual token fee. Watch | World in Pictures: Ukrainian cargo plane crashes in Greece; Spain, Portugal battle wildfires However, the payments were terminated in 2013, with Malaysia claiming that Sabah belonged to its territory and that no one else had any claim to it. The heirs who assert that they are the last Sultan of Sulu's successors-in-interest filed a case soon after. In order to resolve the conflict over the land deal, a French arbitration court ordered Malaysia to pay the amount to the lineal descendants of the last Sultan of Sulu in February. However, Malaysia announced on Wednesday that a Paris Court of Appeal has stayed the verdict after concluding that the award's execution may violate the nation's sovereignty. Also read | 'Good guy with a gun': 3 killed in mass shooting in Indiana, armed onlooker saves the day The stay, according to law minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, would stop the award from being implemented while Malaysia seeks to overturn the decision. Malaysia hadn't previously taken part in the arbitration. However, attorneys for the claimants assert that the February judgement is still enforceable outside of France under the New York Convention, an international arbitration agreement ratified by 170 nations. According to Paul Cohen, the heirs' principal co-counsel at the London-based law firm 4-5 Gray's Inn Square, "the'stay' that seems to comfort the Malaysian government temporarily delays local enforcement in one country, France itself," adding "It does not apply to the other 169." (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.

Malaysian government's international assets at stake as heirs of a 19th century sultan claim $15 billion award

<p>Forest fires have continued to ravage southwest Europe. With heatwave that has shown no sign of abating, firefighters are battling to contain wildfires. In France, Greece, Portugal and Spain, raging fires have resulted in destruction of thousands of hectares of land. The fire has forced thousands of residents to flee.</p>

<p>It is the second heatwave to engulf parts of southwest Europe in weeks. Scientists are blaming climate change and are predicting such weather in future.</p>

<p>Authorities in Spain have reported around 20 wildfires still raging in different parts of the country. Several emergency personnel have lost lives fighting the flames.</p>

<p>In France's Gironde region, situation deteriorated even when firefighters were battlling the fire. More than 16,000 people in the country have been forces to decamp due to wildfires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France's interior ministry announced it would send an extra three firefighting planes, 200 firefighters and more trucks.</p>

<p>Meteo France forecast temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of southern France on Sunday. New heat records are expected on Monday.</p>

<p>"In some southwestern areas, it will be a heat apocalypse," meteorologist Francois Gourand told AFP.</p>

<p>France has placed 15 departments on red alert, mainly on the western seaboard.</p>

<p>The chapel of a historic hospital in the southeastern city of Lyon, Grand Hotel Dieu, offered refuge to tourists on Sunday including Jean-Marc, 51, who was visiting from Alsace</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Forest fires have continued to ravage southwest Europe. With heatwave that has shown no sign of abating, firefighters are battling to contain wildfires. In France, Greece, Portugal and Spain, raging fires have resulted in destruction of thousands of hectares of land.

Forest fires have continued to ravage southwest Europe. With heatwave that has shown no sign of abating, firefighters are battling to contain wildfires. In France, Greece, Portugal and Spain, raging fires have resulted in destruction of thousands of hectares of land. The fire has forced thousands of residents to flee. It is the second heatwave to engulf parts of southwest Europe in weeks. Scientists are blaming climate change and are predicting such weather in future. Authorities in Spain have reported around 20 wildfires still raging in different parts of the country. Several emergency personnel have lost lives fighting the flames. In France's Gironde region, situation deteriorated even when firefighters were battlling the fire. More than 16,000 people in the country have been forces to decamp due to wildfires. France's interior ministry announced it would send an extra three firefighting planes, 200 firefighters and more trucks. Meteo France forecast temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of southern France on Sunday. New heat records are expected on Monday. "In some southwestern areas, it will be a heat apocalypse," meteorologist Francois Gourand told AFP. France has placed 15 departments on red alert, mainly on the western seaboard. The chapel of a historic hospital in the southeastern city of Lyon, Grand Hotel Dieu, offered refuge to tourists on Sunday including Jean-Marc, 51, who was visiting from Alsace (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 ×

Rescue agencies on alert due to wildfires in southwest Europe

<p>France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday. France saw most of the ball in the match with 60 per cent possession on their side while also creating a lot of chances with a total of 7 shots on target of a total of 27 shots attempted. Belgium looked weak on the other side with only 2 shots in the whole game with one of them being on target.</p>

<p>Kadidiatou Diani gave France an early lead in the match with a headed effort that at the back post. The left-back of France, Sakina Karchaoui assisted the goal with a great lofted ball to the right winger who converted the effort from the six-yard box within 6 minutes of the starting of the match. Diani got the chance to score a brace in the 15th minute through a tap-in but the ball was parried out by Belgium Goalkeeper Nicky Evrard. The right-footed effort was yet again provided by Karchaoui who was looking dangerous on the left wing for France by constantly creating chances for the team.</p>

<p>In the 17th minute, the French number 9 Marie-Antoinette Katoto had to be taken off the ground as she suffered an injury. It was a major blow for the French team getting their main striker out of the game in the early minutes. She was replaced by striker Ouleymata Sarr. France was looking comfortable as the game hit the 30-minute mark. Though in the 36th minute Belgium bounced back with a goal from Janice Cayman. An amazing through ball came from Tessa Wullaert as Cayman stretched out to level the score for Belgium.</p>

<p>France was quick to gain the lead with a goal from Griedge Mbock Bathy who converted the goal from a short-range header in the 41st minute of the game. The French number 10, Clara Mateo assisted the goal from a cross which was followed from a corner taken by Mateo herself. The goal marked the end of the first half. It was a very dominating performance from France with numerous efforts created but after all that Belgium was still in the game thanks to the maiden effort from Belgium left winger Cayman.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-to-not-be-make-a-bid-for-cristiano-ronaldo-from-manchester-united-report-497588"><strong>Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The second half of the match was rather dry as France failed to convert a lot of chances while Belgian team was barely in the game. However, in the 86th minute France got a chance to double the lead from the spot courtesy of Amber Tysiak`s handball in the penalty area. Tysiak who already was on a yellow card conceded the penalty which resulted in her being sent off. French center-back Wendie Renard stepped up for the penalty but failed to convert as her weak effort to the right corner of the goal was parried away by Belgian Goalkeeper Evrard. Renard also choked the opportunity on the rebound but her effort went wide.</p>

<p>The match ended with a score of 2-1 with France winning the game. France was also able to maintain their first spot in Group D with the win as Matchday-2 came to end. Next Tuesday, France will face Iceland who is second in Group-D.&nbsp;</p>


France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday.

France defeated Belgium in a tight-knitted game by 2-1 in the last match of Matchday-2 in the Women`s Euro 2022 here at New York Stadium, South Yorkshire on Thursday. France saw most of the ball in the match with 60 per cent possession on their side while also creating a lot of chances with a total of 7 shots on target of a total of 27 shots attempted. Belgium looked weak on the other side with only 2 shots in the whole game with one of them being on target. Kadidiatou Diani gave France an early lead in the match with a headed effort that at the back post. The left-back of France, Sakina Karchaoui assisted the goal with a great lofted ball to the right winger who converted the effort from the six-yard box within 6 minutes of the starting of the match. Diani got the chance to score a brace in the 15th minute through a tap-in but the ball was parried out by Belgium Goalkeeper Nicky Evrard. The right-footed effort was yet again provided by Karchaoui who was looking dangerous on the left wing for France by constantly creating chances for the team. In the 17th minute, the French number 9 Marie-Antoinette Katoto had to be taken off the ground as she suffered an injury. It was a major blow for the French team getting their main striker out of the game in the early minutes. She was replaced by striker Ouleymata Sarr. France was looking comfortable as the game hit the 30-minute mark. Though in the 36th minute Belgium bounced back with a goal from Janice Cayman. An amazing through ball came from Tessa Wullaert as Cayman stretched out to level the score for Belgium. France was quick to gain the lead with a goal from Griedge Mbock Bathy who converted the goal from a short-range header in the 41st minute of the game. The French number 10, Clara Mateo assisted the goal from a cross which was followed from a corner taken by Mateo herself. The goal marked the end of the first half. It was a very dominating performance from France with numerous efforts created but after all that Belgium was still in the game thanks to the maiden effort from Belgium left winger Cayman. ALSO READ | Chelsea to not make a bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United: Report The second half of the match was rather dry as France failed to convert a lot of chances while Belgian team was barely in the game. However, in the 86th minute France got a chance to double the lead from the spot courtesy of Amber Tysiak`s handball in the penalty area. Tysiak who already was on a yellow card conceded the penalty which resulted in her being sent off. French center-back Wendie Renard stepped up for the penalty but failed to convert as her weak effort to the right corner of the goal was parried away by Belgian Goalkeeper Evrard. Renard also choked the opportunity on the rebound but her effort went wide. The match ended with a score of 2-1 with France winning the game. France was also able to maintain their first spot in Group D with the win as Matchday-2 came to end. Next Tuesday, France will face Iceland who is second in Group-D.

Women's Euro 2022: France defeat Belgium 2-1 in an intense game, enter quarter-finals

The impact of climate change continues to grip the world. In France, due to severe shortage of rainfall, the stunning summer display of sunflowers and lavender is starting to disappear.

WION Climate Tracker: Sunflowers & Lavender production to drop in France

<p>French government led by President Emmanuel Macron has suffered its first legislative defeat in parliament. Macron's ruling party has lost its majority in the parliament last month. France's National Assembly has rejected a proposal that would have given government powers to demand proof of vaccination or negative COVID test from travellers when they enter France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposal was opposed by 219 lawmakers while 195 supported it. All major opposition parties the far-right National Rally (RN), the hard left LFI, and rightwing Republicans (LR) united against the minority government.</p>

<p>"The circumstances oblige the government to listen to opposition parties which at the moment it has a few difficulties in doing," top Republicans MP Olivier Marleix told Sud Radio on Wednesday morning.</p>

<p>French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne condemned the obstruction. Allies stressed how the so-called "extremes", far left and far right, teamed together.</p>

<p>"Clear collusion between the extremes, each one applauding the other," MP Maud Bregeon from Macron's Republic on the Move wrote on Twitter alongside a video.</p>

<p>Fellow ruling party Remy Rebeyrotte criticised "an atmosphere like a football match" during the debate where speakers were routinely shouted down. Mthilde Panot, most senior MP in the hard-left LFI party compared ruling party MPs as 'playmobils'. It is an insult that equated them to inanimate toys.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


French government led by President Emmanuel Macron has suffered its first legislative defeat in parliament. Macron's ruling party has lost its majority in the parliament last month.

French government led by President Emmanuel Macron has suffered its first legislative defeat in parliament. Macron's ruling party has lost its majority in the parliament last month. France's National Assembly has rejected a proposal that would have given government powers to demand proof of vaccination or negative COVID test from travellers when they enter France. The proposal was opposed by 219 lawmakers while 195 supported it. All major opposition parties the far-right National Rally (RN), the hard left LFI, and rightwing Republicans (LR) united against the minority government. "The circumstances oblige the government to listen to opposition parties which at the moment it has a few difficulties in doing," top Republicans MP Olivier Marleix told Sud Radio on Wednesday morning. French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne condemned the obstruction. Allies stressed how the so-called "extremes", far left and far right, teamed together. "Clear collusion between the extremes, each one applauding the other," MP Maud Bregeon from Macron's Republic on the Move wrote on Twitter alongside a video. Fellow ruling party Remy Rebeyrotte criticised "an atmosphere like a football match" during the debate where speakers were routinely shouted down. Mthilde Panot, most senior MP in the hard-left LFI party compared ruling party MPs as 'playmobils'. It is an insult that equated them to inanimate toys.

Macron suffers first legislative defeat in parliament

<p>An enquiry by the French Senate into crowd chaos at this year's Champions League final in Paris concluded that organisers were to blame, not supporters, undermining claims by the police and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. A fact-finding mission led by two senators was set up after the Liverpool-Real Madrid game on May 28 which was marred by a delayed kick-off, crushes, teargas and street crime. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigation concluded that the problems were caused by a "string of dysfunctions" including a lack of preparation by French authorities and European football body UEFA, as well as poorly executed security arrangements.</p>

<p>"These dysfunctions were at every level, not only during the implementation&nbsp;but also during preparations in advance," the co-chair of+the enquiry Laurent Lafon told reporters at a press conference.</p>

<p>The final report contradicted repeated statements from Darmanin that Liverpool fans were mostly responsible, with the minister claiming that up to 40,000 of them travelled to the stadium either with no tickets or with fake ones.</p>

<p>"The first statements (by the minister) do not match up with reality," Francois-Noel Buffet, a fellow co-chair of the investigation, told reporters.</p>

<p>"It was not because there were Liverpool supporters who travelled with their team that things went badly," Lafon added, noting that thousands of fans without tickets had been welcomed in fanzones set up in the French capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-cristiano-ronaldo-join-lionel-messi-at-psg-man-utd-stars-agent-offer-cr7-to-french-club-report-497062">Can Ronaldo join Lionel Messi at PSG? Man Utd star's agent offer CR7 to French club - Report</a></p>

<p>Those with tickets struggled to travel to the stadium because of a transport strike, then found themselves in bottlenecks and crushes at the entry gates.</p>

<p>Faced with the build up of frustrated crowds around the Stade de France, police used tear gas and pepper spray to move them back, affecting many children as well as disabled fans in wheelchairs.</p>

<p>After the game, supporters were preyed on by local gangs as they made their way to local transport connections, with many reporting pickpocketing, muggings and threats as the police looked on.</p>

<p>The televised events were a national embarrassment and are thought to have influenced parliamentary elections in June when President Emmanuel Macron lost his majority.</p>

<p>They caused alarm bells just a year from the start of rugby World Cup, which will be held in France, and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Darmanin survived a recent government reshuffle and has been given extra responsibility as interior minister despite his claims, which caused fury in Liverpool and tensions with the British government.</p>

<p>Liverpool football club is particularly sensitive to the scapegoating of its fans after they were falsely blamed for the Hillsborough stadium disaster in Sheffield in 1989.</p>

<p>Supporters' group Spirit of Shankly thanked the Senate on Wednesday for "welcoming the testimonies of fans and consequently vindicating them from any responsibility," but said this was not enough.</p>

<p>"We want a full apology from the French government with a complete retraction of the lies purported on their behalf on and since 28 May 2022, and will continue to lobby to achieve it," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>Darmanin, a law-and-order hardliner, issued his first partial apology at the end of June, telling RTL radio: "Should things have been managed better at the Stade de France (stadium)? The answer is yes. Am I partly responsible? The answer is yes."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-fulfil-his-commitments-epl-club-to-not-suspend-player-who-was-arrested-after-rape-allegations-report-497076">Premier League club to not suspend player who was arrested after rape allegations - Report</a></p>

<p>The head of the Paris police, Didier Lallement, admitted during a Senate hearing on June 9 that security operations had been a "failure" and offered his excuses to fans who were unable to attend the game.</p>

<p>But he defended the use of teargas to move fans back from the stadium, saying there was "no other way." The Senate commission did not recommend any sanctions against the police or Darmanin.</p>

<p>"The role of a commission like ours is not to call for the resignation of someone in the government," Buffet explained.</p>

<p>Instead, its final report made a series of recommendations to authorities to improve security arrangements at major sporting events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France is to host the Rugby World Cup next year and the Olympics in 2024. The Senate report recommended that the police draw up clearer guidelines for the use of teargas and adopt other crowd-control methods such as greater use of mounted officers and water cannons.</p>

<p>Authorities have also been under pressure to explain why security camera footage from the stadium was not saved, removing a potentially vital source of information for investigators.</p>

<p>"The images will always be missing. That's our biggest regret," Buffet said.</p>

<p>European football body UEFA is also conducting a parallel investigation into the debacle which came after France offered to host the game when it was stripped from Russia over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


An enquiry by the French Senate into crowd chaos at this year's Champions League final in Paris concluded that organisers were to blame, not supporters, undermining claims by the police and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin.

An enquiry by the French Senate into crowd chaos at this year's Champions League final in Paris concluded that organisers were to blame, not supporters, undermining claims by the police and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. A fact-finding mission led by two senators was set up after the Liverpool-Real Madrid game on May 28 which was marred by a delayed kick-off, crushes, teargas and street crime. The investigation concluded that the problems were caused by a "string of dysfunctions" including a lack of preparation by French authorities and European football body UEFA, as well as poorly executed security arrangements. "These dysfunctions were at every level, not only during the implementation but also during preparations in advance," the co-chair of+the enquiry Laurent Lafon told reporters at a press conference. The final report contradicted repeated statements from Darmanin that Liverpool fans were mostly responsible, with the minister claiming that up to 40,000 of them travelled to the stadium either with no tickets or with fake ones. "The first statements (by the minister) do not match up with reality," Francois-Noel Buffet, a fellow co-chair of the investigation, told reporters. "It was not because there were Liverpool supporters who travelled with their team that things went badly," Lafon added, noting that thousands of fans without tickets had been welcomed in fanzones set up in the French capital. Also Read: Can Ronaldo join Lionel Messi at PSG? Man Utd star's agent offer CR7 to French club - Report Those with tickets struggled to travel to the stadium because of a transport strike, then found themselves in bottlenecks and crushes at the entry gates. Faced with the build up of frustrated crowds around the Stade de France, police used tear gas and pepper spray to move them back, affecting many children as well as disabled fans in wheelchairs. After the game, supporters were preyed on by local gangs as they made their way to local transport connections, with many reporting pickpocketing, muggings and threats as the police looked on. The televised events were a national embarrassment and are thought to have influenced parliamentary elections in June when President Emmanuel Macron lost his majority. They caused alarm bells just a year from the start of rugby World Cup, which will be held in France, and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Darmanin survived a recent government reshuffle and has been given extra responsibility as interior minister despite his claims, which caused fury in Liverpool and tensions with the British government. Liverpool football club is particularly sensitive to the scapegoating of its fans after they were falsely blamed for the Hillsborough stadium disaster in Sheffield in 1989. Supporters' group Spirit of Shankly thanked the Senate on Wednesday for "welcoming the testimonies of fans and consequently vindicating them from any responsibility," but said this was not enough. "We want a full apology from the French government with a complete retraction of the lies purported on their behalf on and since 28 May 2022, and will continue to lobby to achieve it," it said in a statement. Darmanin, a law-and-order hardliner, issued his first partial apology at the end of June, telling RTL radio: "Should things have been managed better at the Stade de France (stadium)? The answer is yes. Am I partly responsible? The answer is yes." Also Read: Premier League club to not suspend player who was arrested after rape allegations - Report The head of the Paris police, Didier Lallement, admitted during a Senate hearing on June 9 that security operations had been a "failure" and offered his excuses to fans who were unable to attend the game. But he defended the use of teargas to move fans back from the stadium, saying there was "no other way." The Senate commission did not recommend any sanctions against the police or Darmanin. "The role of a commission like ours is not to call for the resignation of someone in the government," Buffet explained. Instead, its final report made a series of recommendations to authorities to improve security arrangements at major sporting events. France is to host the Rugby World Cup next year and the Olympics in 2024. The Senate report recommended that the police draw up clearer guidelines for the use of teargas and adopt other crowd-control methods such as greater use of mounted officers and water cannons. Authorities have also been under pressure to explain why security camera footage from the stadium was not saved, removing a potentially vital source of information for investigators. "The images will always be missing. That's our biggest regret," Buffet said. European football body UEFA is also conducting a parallel investigation into the debacle which came after France offered to host the game when it was stripped from Russia over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Not Liverpool supporters! French enquiry blames organisers for chaos during Champions League final

Pakistan and France have signed an approximate 22mn dollar financing agreement to extend technical and financial support for the renovation of the Lahore Fort. This restoration project is meant to generate economic activities and build a climate change resilient fort.

Pakistan & France sign approx $22mn deal to restore Lahore Fort

<p>The reports of an alleged secret deal between online transport company Uber and French President Emmanuel Macron have sparked a huge response from the opposition parties in France. According to an investigation by leading media outlets based on leaked files, Macron had a “secret deal” with the company during his tenure as economic minister between 2014 and 2016. A report in French daily Le Monde claimed that it was Macron’s ministry that paved the path for Uber to establish its dominance in France with the help of "ready-made" amendments. In the aftermath of the report, a number of opposition deputies have criticised Macron and asked for thorough investigation.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uber-files-leaked-docs-reveal-how-uber-won-access-to-world-leaders-deceived-investigators-496213" hreflang="en">The Uber Files: Leaked docs reveal how Uber won access to world leaders, deceived investigators</a></p>

<p>Parliamentary leader of the France Unbowed party - Mathilde Panot – took to Twitter to express her views as she called it the "pillage of the country". She went on to call Macron a "lobbyist" for a "US multinational aiming to permanently deregulate labour law" in her post on the site.</p>

<p>Communist Party leader Fabien Roussel also described the report as "damning revelations about the active role played by Emmanuel Macron, then minister, to facilitate the development of Uber in France. "Against all our rules, all our social rights and against workers' rights," he tweeted.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-fries-with-burgers-mcdonalds-substitute-in-russia-hit-by-potato-shortage-496220" hreflang="en">No fries with burgers! McDonald’s substitute in Russia hit by potato shortage</a></p>

<p>The President’s office downplayed the allegations saying Macron has "naturally" been in contact with "many companies involved in the profound change in services that has occurred over the years mentioned, which should be facilitated by unravelling certain administrative or regulatory locks".</p>

<p>Uber France also told AFP that the two parties were in contact during that time period, but it was all part of a “normal course of his ministerial duties”.</p>

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<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The reports of an alleged secret deal between online transport company Uber and French President Emmanuel Macron have sparked a huge response from the opposition parties in France.

The reports of an alleged secret deal between online transport company Uber and French President Emmanuel Macron have sparked a huge response from the opposition parties in France. According to an investigation by leading media outlets based on leaked files, Macron had a “secret deal” with the company during his tenure as economic minister between 2014 and 2016. A report in French daily Le Monde claimed that it was Macron’s ministry that paved the path for Uber to establish its dominance in France with the help of "ready-made" amendments. In the aftermath of the report, a number of opposition deputies have criticised Macron and asked for thorough investigation. Also read | The Uber Files: Leaked docs reveal how Uber won access to world leaders, deceived investigators Parliamentary leader of the France Unbowed party - Mathilde Panot – took to Twitter to express her views as she called it the "pillage of the country". She went on to call Macron a "lobbyist" for a "US multinational aiming to permanently deregulate labour law" in her post on the site. Communist Party leader Fabien Roussel also described the report as "damning revelations about the active role played by Emmanuel Macron, then minister, to facilitate the development of Uber in France. "Against all our rules, all our social rights and against workers' rights," he tweeted. Also read | No fries with burgers! McDonald’s substitute in Russia hit by potato shortage The President’s office downplayed the allegations saying Macron has "naturally" been in contact with "many companies involved in the profound change in services that has occurred over the years mentioned, which should be facilitated by unravelling certain administrative or regulatory locks". Uber France also told AFP that the two parties were in contact during that time period, but it was all part of a “normal course of his ministerial duties”. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Emmanuel Macron faces criticism from French opposition over 'secret deal' with Uber

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