Many parts of Europe are going through scorching heat with rapidly increasing temperatures.

Spain, France and other western European nations are under the severe June heatwave,&nbsp;that has sparked forest fires&nbsp;and many other concerns.

This&nbsp;weekend's temperatures were at the peak of the&nbsp;June&nbsp;heatwave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heat-wave-in-us-know-when-will-this-end-488455">Historic heatwave scorches US: When is it expected to end?</a>

Scientists have predicted that&nbsp;such phenomena will now strike earlier in the year due&nbsp;to global warming.

According to a report by the weather service, "many parts of the region surpassed 40 degrees Celcius. Although storms were expected on the Atlantic coast on Sunday evening,&nbsp;the first signs that the stifling temperatures will gradually regress to concern only the eastern part of the country."

Biarritz, a city in southwestern France, saw its highest all-time temperature Saturday afternoon of 42.9 degrees Celsius (109.2 degrees Fahrenheit), according to state forecaster Meteo France.

Queues of hundreds of people and traffic jams formed outside aquatic leisure parks in France, with people seeing water as the only refuge from the devastating heat.

Watch |&nbsp;Heat wave results in hottest May in Spain, firefighters struggle to control fire

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And at Vincennes Zoo, the staff constantly checked the animals for signs of dehydration.

Matthieu Sorel, a climatologist at Meteo France said that, " This is the earliest&nbsp;heatwave&nbsp;ever recorded in France&nbsp;since 1947."&nbsp;He even called the weather&nbsp;a&nbsp;"marker&nbsp;of&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change."

Forest fires in Spain on Saturday had burned nearly 20,000 hectares&nbsp;of land.&nbsp;Many people were forced to leave their homes and move to safe places because of the fires. Fourteen&nbsp;villages were evacuated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-forecast-department-anticipates-heatwave-to-hit-france-early-this-year-487803">France's state forecast department anticipates heatwave to hit country early this year</a>

There have also been fires in Germany where temperatures&nbsp;reached 36 degrees Celcius.

UK also&nbsp;recorded its hottest day of the year on Friday, with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celcius&nbsp;in the early afternoon.&nbsp;Italy is also one of the countries.&nbsp;Experts warned the high temperatures were caused by worrying&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change&nbsp;trends. &nbsp;

Clare Nullis, a spokeswoman for the World Meteorological Organization in&nbsp;Geneva said that "as a result of&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change, heatwaves are starting earlier."

"What we're witnessing today is unfortunately a foretaste of the future",&nbsp;she further added.

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Many parts of Europe are going through scorching heat with rapidly increasing temperatures. Spain, France and other western European nations are under the severe June heatwave, that has sparked forest fires and many other concerns.

Many parts of Europe are going through scorching heat with rapidly increasing temperatures. Spain, France and other western European nations are under the severe June heatwave, that has sparked forest fires and many other concerns. This weekend's temperatures were at the peak of the June heatwave. Also read | Historic heatwave scorches US: When is it expected to end? Scientists have predicted that such phenomena will now strike earlier in the year due to global warming. According to a report by the weather service, "many parts of the region surpassed 40 degrees Celcius. Although storms were expected on the Atlantic coast on Sunday evening, the first signs that the stifling temperatures will gradually regress to concern only the eastern part of the country." Biarritz, a city in southwestern France, saw its highest all-time temperature Saturday afternoon of 42.9 degrees Celsius (109.2 degrees Fahrenheit), according to state forecaster Meteo France. Queues of hundreds of people and traffic jams formed outside aquatic leisure parks in France, with people seeing water as the only refuge from the devastating heat. Watch | Heat wave results in hottest May in Spain, firefighters struggle to control fire And at Vincennes Zoo, the staff constantly checked the animals for signs of dehydration. Matthieu Sorel, a climatologist at Meteo France said that, " This is the earliest heatwave ever recorded in France since 1947." He even called the weather a "marker of climate change." Forest fires in Spain on Saturday had burned nearly 20,000 hectares of land. Many people were forced to leave their homes and move to safe places because of the fires. Fourteen villages were evacuated. Also read | France's state forecast department anticipates heatwave to hit country early this year There have also been fires in Germany where temperatures reached 36 degrees Celcius. UK also recorded its hottest day of the year on Friday, with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celcius in the early afternoon. Italy is also one of the countries. Experts warned the high temperatures were caused by worrying climate change trends. Clare Nullis, a spokeswoman for the World Meteorological Organization in Geneva said that "as a result of climate change, heatwaves are starting earlier." "What we're witnessing today is unfortunately a foretaste of the future", she further added. 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.

'Marker of climate change': Europe swelters in record-breaking June heatwave

French President Emmanuel Macron's majority is on the line in France as the country gears up for a new battle. French legislative elections are going to decide Macron's fate.

French legislative elections begin: First key test for President Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron's majority is on the line in France as the country gears up for a new battle. French Parliamentary Polls are going to decide Macron's fate.

French Parliamentary Polls 2022: France gears up for a new battle as Macron's majority is on the line

Macron vs Melenchon: President Macron to face leftist coalition in polls

In pics: Heatwave grips France and Spain as temperature set to rise

Heatwave continues in various parts of Europe. Concerts and other large gatherings have been called off. On another side, Italy is dealing with the worst drought in 70 years.

Heat wave grips parts of Europe | Temperatures hit 40° celsius in France

France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe. Gazprom maintains that reduction in supply is due to repair work, but the move is widely perceived to be a political one.

Experts have been quoted in media reports saying that Russia is seeking to put pressure on allies of Ukraine.

France is dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its natural gas.

Supplies had already been reduced by 60 percent since the beginning of this year, sending prices soaring.

But GRTgaz said there was no risk to French supplies currently, with reserves at 56 percent capacity compared with 50 percent in June normally.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday returned from Ukraine. This was his first visit to Ukraine since Russian invasion. Macron was accompanied by Italian PM Mario Draghi, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.&nbsp;

The European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended a 'candidate' status for Ukraine in the European Union. Russia is fiercely opposed to co-operation between Ukraine and Europe.

In the run-up to the invasion Russian President Vladimir Putin had expressed his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.

(With inputs from agencies)

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France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe.

France has not received any Russian natural gas through pipeline since June 15, said GRTgaz, a network operator. The development has followed Russian gas giant Gazprom's warning earlier this week about cutting delivery of gas to Europe. Gazprom maintains that reduction in supply is due to repair work, but the move is widely perceived to be a political one. Experts have been quoted in media reports saying that Russia is seeking to put pressure on allies of Ukraine. France is dependent on Russia for 17 per cent of its natural gas. Supplies had already been reduced by 60 percent since the beginning of this year, sending prices soaring. But GRTgaz said there was no risk to French supplies currently, with reserves at 56 percent capacity compared with 50 percent in June normally. French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday returned from Ukraine. This was his first visit to Ukraine since Russian invasion. Macron was accompanied by Italian PM Mario Draghi, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The European Commission on Friday (June 17) recommended a 'candidate' status for Ukraine in the European Union. Russia is fiercely opposed to co-operation between Ukraine and Europe. In the run-up to the invasion Russian President Vladimir Putin had expressed his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO. (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 no longer receiving Russian gas via pipelines, says network operator 

India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Rupay cards will soon be accepted in France, possibly paving the way for these cashless transactions in the rest of European Union in future. India has started the process in France by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) International, and Lyra Network of France, said Indian Ambassador in France Jawed Ashraf.

Ashraf said, "When I was the ambassador of Singapore then we tried to launch Bhim QR and RuPay card in Singapore. We tried and successfully launched. Most of the merchandise accepts UPI payments and RuPay cards. I strongly believe that we can do this in Europe also. We are trying to start UPI and RuPay cards soon in France. We will have to discuss this with Central Bank, regulators and companies here in France.”

“In France, there is very less use of digital payment. But it needs to be integrated and seamless. It lacks efficiency as we have in India. We have started the process in France by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NPCI, International and Lyra Network of France," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isolated-subpopulation-of-polar-bears-found-in-southeast-greenland-489104">&nbsp;Isolated subpopulation of polar bears found in Southeast Greenland</a>

The Ambassador said that once he went to a doctor in France but didn't have the cash or cheque to pay. The doctor asked him to pay in cash or by cheque. He had to visit an ATM to withdraw the cash and pay the doctor.&nbsp;

“If UPI comes to France, then it will benefit the people of France. If we share the benefits of UPI with the people of France, then they will accept it. Regulators, banks, and companies will accept it. If we implement it in the Bank of France, then I think that we will also be able to push it for European Union," Ashraf explained.

However, the Ambassador said, "We will have to start with France first. Some banks like BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, etc are having presence in India and they know the success story of UPI."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Rupay cards will soon be accepted in France, possibly paving the way for these cashless transactions in the rest of European Union in future.

India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Rupay cards will soon be accepted in France, possibly paving the way for these cashless transactions in the rest of European Union in future. India has started the process in France by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) International, and Lyra Network of France, said Indian Ambassador in France Jawed Ashraf. Ashraf said, "When I was the ambassador of Singapore then we tried to launch Bhim QR and RuPay card in Singapore. We tried and successfully launched. Most of the merchandise accepts UPI payments and RuPay cards. I strongly believe that we can do this in Europe also. We are trying to start UPI and RuPay cards soon in France. We will have to discuss this with Central Bank, regulators and companies here in France.” “In France, there is very less use of digital payment. But it needs to be integrated and seamless. It lacks efficiency as we have in India. We have started the process in France by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NPCI, International and Lyra Network of France," he added. Also Read: Isolated subpopulation of polar bears found in Southeast Greenland The Ambassador said that once he went to a doctor in France but didn't have the cash or cheque to pay. The doctor asked him to pay in cash or by cheque. He had to visit an ATM to withdraw the cash and pay the doctor. “If UPI comes to France, then it will benefit the people of France. If we share the benefits of UPI with the people of France, then they will accept it. Regulators, banks, and companies will accept it. If we implement it in the Bank of France, then I think that we will also be able to push it for European Union," Ashraf explained. However, the Ambassador said, "We will have to start with France first. Some banks like BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, etc are having presence in India and they know the success story of UPI." (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.

Go cashless: India's Rupay cards and UPI will soon be accepted in France

Heatwave will envelop France between Thursday (June 16) and Saturday (June 18), with temperatures in central parts of the country reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;A cold air system coming from the Maghreb region is acting like gear, pushing hot air upwards towards France and the Iberian peninsula, Meteo France weather expert Olivier Proust said.

"It's as if a heatstroke enters the country, with temperatures largely surpassing normal levels," he said, showing a map of France with bright red zones in most of the west and the south, stretching into central France.

The high temperatures will also worsen drought, already experienced in the Loire Valley, with riverbeds in towns like Ancenis-Saint-Gereon and Mauges-sur-Loire expanding as water levels drop, and the soil cracking from dryness.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-airline-ditches-pro-russia-logo-letter-z-associated-with-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-488744">Japanese airline ditches pro-Russia logo, letter 'Z' associated with Russia's invasion of Ukraine</a>

"Clearly, this phenomenon could be more frequent, more intense, and could happen earlier in the season, and possibly end later in the season. Yes, it's a sign of this (global) warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity, and we now see that this new climate that we are experiencing is comprised of all these kinds of intensification, which brings us this stifling heat." Proust added

Periods of intense heat, which is happening more frequently and earlier in the summer season while lasting longer, are rooted in climate change.

"It's a sign of this global warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity," Proust said. 
He added that other parts of Europe, such as Italy, Alpine countries and the south of Germany, will not escape the heatwave.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Heatwave will envelop France between Thursday (June 16) and Saturday (June 18), with temperatures in central parts of the country reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Heatwave will envelop France between Thursday (June 16) and Saturday (June 18), with temperatures in central parts of the country reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). A cold air system coming from the Maghreb region is acting like gear, pushing hot air upwards towards France and the Iberian peninsula, Meteo France weather expert Olivier Proust said. "It's as if a heatstroke enters the country, with temperatures largely surpassing normal levels," he said, showing a map of France with bright red zones in most of the west and the south, stretching into central France. The high temperatures will also worsen drought, already experienced in the Loire Valley, with riverbeds in towns like Ancenis-Saint-Gereon and Mauges-sur-Loire expanding as water levels drop, and the soil cracking from dryness. Also Read: Japanese airline ditches pro-Russia logo, letter 'Z' associated with Russia's invasion of Ukraine "Clearly, this phenomenon could be more frequent, more intense, and could happen earlier in the season, and possibly end later in the season. Yes, it's a sign of this (global) warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity, and we now see that this new climate that we are experiencing is comprised of all these kinds of intensification, which brings us this stifling heat." Proust added Periods of intense heat, which is happening more frequently and earlier in the summer season while lasting longer, are rooted in climate change. "It's a sign of this global warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity," Proust said. He added that other parts of Europe, such as Italy, Alpine countries and the south of Germany, will not escape the heatwave. (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 braces for heatwave in coming days, as temperatures cross 40 degrees Celcius

McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020.

This is the second biggest tax settlement in French history.

The settlement includes 508-million-euro fine and 737 million euros in back taxes already agreed in May, years after McDonald's was accused of reporting artificially low profits to reduce its tax bill.

"On condition of payment of the fine, the validation of the agreement means the end of the prosecution," chief financial prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement. He was quoted by AFP.

Hailing the fine as the "maximum amount possible" under such a deal, he added that McDonald's would pay "2.5 times the amount of tax avoided".

Investigators had since 2014 been probing whether fees paid by McDonald's French operation to its European parent company in Luxembourg for use of the chain's brand in fact served to artificially slash its profits.

Judge Noel said that this let the company "soak up a large amount of the profits made by restaurants in France."

A source familiar with the case told AFP this week that such practices within the same group are "used exclusively to avoid taxes".

They added that the brand fees "could double" from one McDonald's branch to the next "without any justification at all, which made it possible to prove that it was done 'exclusively' for tax reasons".

Prosecutors had opened an official probe in 2016 after union officials reported the company for covering up tax evasion.

In a statement, McDonald's said it had already paid 2.2 billion euros in taxes over the period in question.

"This agreement ends a tax case and a judicial investigation without acknowledging fault," the company added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020.

McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020. This is the second biggest tax settlement in French history. The settlement includes 508-million-euro fine and 737 million euros in back taxes already agreed in May, years after McDonald's was accused of reporting artificially low profits to reduce its tax bill. "On condition of payment of the fine, the validation of the agreement means the end of the prosecution," chief financial prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement. He was quoted by AFP. Hailing the fine as the "maximum amount possible" under such a deal, he added that McDonald's would pay "2.5 times the amount of tax avoided". Investigators had since 2014 been probing whether fees paid by McDonald's French operation to its European parent company in Luxembourg for use of the chain's brand in fact served to artificially slash its profits. Judge Noel said that this let the company "soak up a large amount of the profits made by restaurants in France." A source familiar with the case told AFP this week that such practices within the same group are "used exclusively to avoid taxes". They added that the brand fees "could double" from one McDonald's branch to the next "without any justification at all, which made it possible to prove that it was done 'exclusively' for tax reasons". Prosecutors had opened an official probe in 2016 after union officials reported the company for covering up tax evasion. In a statement, McDonald's said it had already paid 2.2 billion euros in taxes over the period in question. "This agreement ends a tax case and a judicial investigation without acknowledging fault," the company added. (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 ×

Unhappy bill: McDonald's to pay more than USD 1 billion to avoid tax evasion case

Representatives from France, Germany, Italy have arrived in Kyiv, making it the first time that leaders of three European countries have visited Kyiv since Russia invaded Ukraine back in February. For more details, we're joined by Trent Murray, Correspondent from Berlin.

Ukraine-Russia conflict: Macron, Scholz and Draghi arrive in Kyiv to meet Zelensky

Spain is sweltering under the sun as a record-breaking pre-summer heat wave has gripped several parts of the country. Meanwhile, heat wave is likely to start today in France.

Extreme heat grips European countries | Temperatures cross 43°C in several parts of Spain

French troops in Mali have captured a senior member of the Sahel affiliate of the Islamic State group, the French military said Wednesday.

The arrest comes as France prepares to complete its withdrawal from Mali after almost a decade battling a jihadist insurgency in the country with the French-led Barkhane anti-insurgency force.

"In the night of June 11-12, an operation of the Barkhane force allowed the capture of Oumeya Ould Albakaye, a senior figure in the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara&nbsp;(IS-GS)," a spokesman for the chief of staff told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/state-forecast-department-anticipates-heatwave-to-hit-france-early-this-year-487803">France's state forecast department anticipates heatwave to hit country early this year</a>

The operation, carried out near the border with Niger, took weeks of preparation involving air force and ground army units, the defence ministry in Paris said.&nbsp;

Albakaye will be held by French forces for questioning for several days and then handed to the Malian authorities, the military added.

A security source who asked not to be named told AFP that Albakaye had once been seen as a potential successor to former IS-GS leader Adnan Abu Walid al-Sahrawi, who was killed by French forces in August 2021.

An explosives expert, Albakaye was a regional chief in the group, commanding the areas of Gourma in Mali and Oudalan in neighbouring Burkina Faso.

He is responsible for a large number of abuses against civilians in those countries, the military said.

France is to complete its&nbsp;withdrawal from Mali within the next few months when its main military base at Gao will be returned to Malian forces.

Watch |&nbsp;French parliament elections set to begin: Polls predict Macron's coalition will win 260-300 seats

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'Re-positioning'

On Wednesday the French defence ministry called the capture of Albakaye "another success for the Barkhane force, which is pursuing its fight against armed terrorist groups while re-positioning itself outside Mali".&nbsp;

Relations between Mali and France plummeted after the military seized power in Bamako in August 2020.

The junta has resisted setting an early date to restore civilian rule and tightened ties with Moscow, bringing in "military instructors" that France and its allies condemn as mercenaries hired from the pro-Kremlin Wagner group.

For most of the previous decade, France had been Mali's staunchest ally in its fight against jihadists who have claimed thousands of lives and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes.

France began its anti-jihadist operations in the Sahel in 2013, helping Mali, its former colony, to snuff out a revolt in the north.

But the jihadists regrouped to attack the volatile centre of the country, initiating a full insurgency that elected president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was unable to break.

In August 2020, protests against Keita culminated in a coup by disgruntled colonels&nbsp;a move followed by a second military takeover in May 2021.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-france-reach-555-million-euro-settlement-deal-487133">Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal</a>

Relations with France kept deteriorating, propelled by the junta's resistance to setting an early date to restore civilian rule and by Bamako's charges that France was inciting the region to take a hard line against it.

In January this year, the French ambassador to Bamako was expelled and the following month France announced the pullout of its troops from Mali, and those of the French-led Takuba force which comprises nearly 1,000 soldiers drawn mostly from EU countries.

An unknown is the impact of the turmoil on the United Nations' peacekeeping force in Mali (MINUSMA), which with 14,000 troops and police is one of the biggest UN operations in the world.

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French troops in Mali have captured a senior member of the Sahel affiliate of the Islamic State group, the French military said Wednesday. The arrest comes as France prepares to complete its withdrawal from Mali after almost a decade battling a jihadist insurgency in the country with the French-led Barkhane anti-insurgency force.

French troops in Mali have captured a senior member of the Sahel affiliate of the Islamic State group, the French military said Wednesday. The arrest comes as France prepares to complete its withdrawal from Mali after almost a decade battling a jihadist insurgency in the country with the French-led Barkhane anti-insurgency force. "In the night of June 11-12, an operation of the Barkhane force allowed the capture of Oumeya Ould Albakaye, a senior figure in the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-GS)," a spokesman for the chief of staff told AFP. Also read | France's state forecast department anticipates heatwave to hit country early this year The operation, carried out near the border with Niger, took weeks of preparation involving air force and ground army units, the defence ministry in Paris said. Albakaye will be held by French forces for questioning for several days and then handed to the Malian authorities, the military added. A security source who asked not to be named told AFP that Albakaye had once been seen as a potential successor to former IS-GS leader Adnan Abu Walid al-Sahrawi, who was killed by French forces in August 2021. An explosives expert, Albakaye was a regional chief in the group, commanding the areas of Gourma in Mali and Oudalan in neighbouring Burkina Faso. He is responsible for a large number of abuses against civilians in those countries, the military said. France is to complete its withdrawal from Mali within the next few months when its main military base at Gao will be returned to Malian forces. Watch | French parliament elections set to begin: Polls predict Macron's coalition will win 260-300 seats 'Re-positioning' On Wednesday the French defence ministry called the capture of Albakaye "another success for the Barkhane force, which is pursuing its fight against armed terrorist groups while re-positioning itself outside Mali". Relations between Mali and France plummeted after the military seized power in Bamako in August 2020. The junta has resisted setting an early date to restore civilian rule and tightened ties with Moscow, bringing in "military instructors" that France and its allies condemn as mercenaries hired from the pro-Kremlin Wagner group. For most of the previous decade, France had been Mali's staunchest ally in its fight against jihadists who have claimed thousands of lives and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes. France began its anti-jihadist operations in the Sahel in 2013, helping Mali, its former colony, to snuff out a revolt in the north. But the jihadists regrouped to attack the volatile centre of the country, initiating a full insurgency that elected president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was unable to break. In August 2020, protests against Keita culminated in a coup by disgruntled colonels a move followed by a second military takeover in May 2021. Also read | Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal Relations with France kept deteriorating, propelled by the junta's resistance to setting an early date to restore civilian rule and by Bamako's charges that France was inciting the region to take a hard line against it. In January this year, the French ambassador to Bamako was expelled and the following month France announced the pullout of its troops from Mali, and those of the French-led Takuba force which comprises nearly 1,000 soldiers drawn mostly from EU countries. An unknown is the impact of the turmoil on the United Nations' peacekeeping force in Mali (MINUSMA), which with 14,000 troops and police is one of the biggest UN operations in the world. 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 claims capture of senior Islamic State figure in Mali

Speaking as he departed from Paris to visit French troops dispatched to Romania in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to voters on Tuesday to give him a "solid majority" in Sunday's parliamentary polls, warning against adding "French disorder to global disorder."

He said "the months ahead will be difficult" but called for people to back him in the name of "the higher national interest" and "common sense."

Macron's visit this week to Romania and neighbouring Moldova has come under fire at home, landing ahead of the second round of crucial parliamentary elections in which his centrist majority is at risk.

"Emmanuel Macron has planned a trip abroad for three days... after anaesthetising the campaign by refusing any debate, he saw the second round as a done deal," Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the left-wing NUPES alliance, told Le Parisien daily.

The incumbent had already been charged by opponents with sitting out April's presidential vote, bringing home a solid but unspectacular win against far-right chief Marine Le Pen.

Appearing to bet on a similar strategy in this month's parliamentary poll, his Ensemble (Together) alliance suffered in Sunday's first round while NUPES and the far-right made gains.

Projections suggest voters could hand Ensemble 255-295 seats in the second round -- uncomfortably low compared with the threshold for an absolute majority of 289.

Macron acknowledged on Tuesday the "disorder in our everyday lives," telling voters "you're already paying more for your gas, your petrol, your groceries, and the months ahead will be difficult."

"In these troubled times, the choice you have to make this Sunday is more crucial than ever," he added, calling on both people who voted for other candidates and non-voters to rally behind him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-to-visit-saudi-arabia-in-july-plans-to-meet-with-mohammed-bin-salman-488137">Joe Biden to visit Saudi Arabia in July, plans to meet with Mohammed bin Salman</a>

While the campaign has been dominated by inflation and other economic impacts of the Ukraine war, the left is also trying to make it a referendum on Macron's plans to raise the minimum retirement age to 65 as part of a pension overhaul.

But all sides have struggled to get voters excited about the poll, with just 47.5 per cent turning out on Sunday, the lowest ever in a first-round parliament election.

Since reforms to the electoral calendar in the early 2000s, interest in the legislative vote -- which follows on the heels of the presidential poll -- has dwindled, as it has always given the head of state a handy majority.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Speaking as he departed from Paris to visit French troops dispatched to Romania in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to voters on Tuesday to give him a "solid majority" in Sunday's parliamentary polls, warning against adding "French disorder to global disorder.

Speaking as he departed from Paris to visit French troops dispatched to Romania in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron appealed to voters on Tuesday to give him a "solid majority" in Sunday's parliamentary polls, warning against adding "French disorder to global disorder." He said "the months ahead will be difficult" but called for people to back him in the name of "the higher national interest" and "common sense." Macron's visit this week to Romania and neighbouring Moldova has come under fire at home, landing ahead of the second round of crucial parliamentary elections in which his centrist majority is at risk. "Emmanuel Macron has planned a trip abroad for three days... after anaesthetising the campaign by refusing any debate, he saw the second round as a done deal," Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the left-wing NUPES alliance, told Le Parisien daily. The incumbent had already been charged by opponents with sitting out April's presidential vote, bringing home a solid but unspectacular win against far-right chief Marine Le Pen. Appearing to bet on a similar strategy in this month's parliamentary poll, his Ensemble (Together) alliance suffered in Sunday's first round while NUPES and the far-right made gains. Projections suggest voters could hand Ensemble 255-295 seats in the second round -- uncomfortably low compared with the threshold for an absolute majority of 289. Macron acknowledged on Tuesday the "disorder in our everyday lives," telling voters "you're already paying more for your gas, your petrol, your groceries, and the months ahead will be difficult." "In these troubled times, the choice you have to make this Sunday is more crucial than ever," he added, calling on both people who voted for other candidates and non-voters to rally behind him. Also Read: Joe Biden to visit Saudi Arabia in July, plans to meet with Mohammed bin Salman While the campaign has been dominated by inflation and other economic impacts of the Ukraine war, the left is also trying to make it a referendum on Macron's plans to raise the minimum retirement age to 65 as part of a pension overhaul. But all sides have struggled to get voters excited about the poll, with just 47.5 per cent turning out on Sunday, the lowest ever in a first-round parliament election. Since reforms to the electoral calendar in the early 2000s, interest in the legislative vote -- which follows on the heels of the presidential poll -- has dwindled, as it has always given the head of state a handy majority. (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.

Macron asks for ‘solid majority’ in Sunday’s parliamentary polls amid ‘troubled times’

French IT company Atos spooked investors on Tuesday with a plan to split its operations and sell assets as well as the departure of CEO Rodolphe Belmer, sending its shares plunging by more than 25 per cent.

The departure of Belmer, who took over in January, follows weeks of reports of board divisions over revamping the company.

Belmer and the board clashed over the fate of cybersecurity unit BDS, sources close to the matter have said, as he was willing to sell the business while the board wanted to retain it.

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Atos is deemed strategic by the French government for its high-tech assets such the manufacture of supercomputers and software used by the army and the finance ministry to manage tax collection. Former prime minister Edouard Philippe sits on its board.

Belmer's departure was announced just an hour before a capital market day that investors hoped could restore confidence after a series of setbacks that has wiped out two-thirds of Atos's market value over the past year.

Belmer, the former boss of satellite company Eutelsat, will leave Atos on September 30. Atos shares fell as much as 27 per cent&nbsp;in early Paris trading, and were down almost 20 per cent&nbsp;as of 0742 GMT.

Watch |&nbsp;France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

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SPLIT-UP Atos plans to split into two publicly listed entities and said it had appointed two deputy CEOs, Nourdine Bihmane and Philippe Oliva, to lead each of these.

The split would be aimed at "unlocking value" as part of a broader plan that would cost an estimated 1.6 billion euros in 2022-2023, the company said.

Atos will sell assets worth about 700 million euros, Belmer said on Tuesday in a call with reporters.

It has already sold its 2.5 per cent&nbsp;stake in payments company Worldline as part of its disposals plan, raising 220 million euros.

As part of split-up, Atos is considering spinning off and combining BDS with its services operations, notably those aimed at helping customers move to the cloud.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-france-reach-555-million-euro-settlement-deal-487133">Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal</a>

Dubbed Evidian, these operations combined generated 4.9 billion euros in revenue in 2021, up by 5 per cent&nbsp;from the previous year, and an operating margin of 7.8 per cent.

The remaining part of Atos will include its declining and loss-making IT infrastructure management services, which had sales of 5.4 billion euros last year.

Atos said it aimed to return to growth and profits for these activities by 2026.

Asked if he would benefit from the two-year severance pay approved by shareholders in case of an abrupt departure of the CEO within two years, Belmer said he had proposed to leave with 9 months worth of salary.

Previously the boss of Vivendi-owned pay-TV station Canal+, Belmer had promised a new start for Atos after accounting errors and a failed attempt to acquire a U.S. company hit investor confidence.

The weakness of Atos's shares have made it vulnerable to takeover rumours.

On Monday, the shares fell more than 10 per cent, following a media report about its future strategy.

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French IT company Atos spooked investors on Tuesday with a plan to split its operations and sell assets as well as the departure of CEO Rodolphe Belmer, sending its shares plunging by more than 25 per cent.

French IT company Atos spooked investors on Tuesday with a plan to split its operations and sell assets as well as the departure of CEO Rodolphe Belmer, sending its shares plunging by more than 25 per cent. The departure of Belmer, who took over in January, follows weeks of reports of board divisions over revamping the company. Belmer and the board clashed over the fate of cybersecurity unit BDS, sources close to the matter have said, as he was willing to sell the business while the board wanted to retain it. Also read | Meta to open 'metaverse academy' in collaboration with French digital training firm Atos is deemed strategic by the French government for its high-tech assets such the manufacture of supercomputers and software used by the army and the finance ministry to manage tax collection. Former prime minister Edouard Philippe sits on its board. Belmer's departure was announced just an hour before a capital market day that investors hoped could restore confidence after a series of setbacks that has wiped out two-thirds of Atos's market value over the past year. Belmer, the former boss of satellite company Eutelsat, will leave Atos on September 30. Atos shares fell as much as 27 per cent in early Paris trading, and were down almost 20 per cent as of 0742 GMT. Watch | France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight SPLIT-UP Atos plans to split into two publicly listed entities and said it had appointed two deputy CEOs, Nourdine Bihmane and Philippe Oliva, to lead each of these. The split would be aimed at "unlocking value" as part of a broader plan that would cost an estimated 1.6 billion euros in 2022-2023, the company said. Atos will sell assets worth about 700 million euros, Belmer said on Tuesday in a call with reporters. It has already sold its 2.5 per cent stake in payments company Worldline as part of its disposals plan, raising 220 million euros. As part of split-up, Atos is considering spinning off and combining BDS with its services operations, notably those aimed at helping customers move to the cloud. Also read | Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal Dubbed Evidian, these operations combined generated 4.9 billion euros in revenue in 2021, up by 5 per cent from the previous year, and an operating margin of 7.8 per cent. The remaining part of Atos will include its declining and loss-making IT infrastructure management services, which had sales of 5.4 billion euros last year. Atos said it aimed to return to growth and profits for these activities by 2026. Asked if he would benefit from the two-year severance pay approved by shareholders in case of an abrupt departure of the CEO within two years, Belmer said he had proposed to leave with 9 months worth of salary. Previously the boss of Vivendi-owned pay-TV station Canal+, Belmer had promised a new start for Atos after accounting errors and a failed attempt to acquire a U.S. company hit investor confidence. The weakness of Atos's shares have made it vulnerable to takeover rumours. On Monday, the shares fell more than 10 per cent, following a media report about its future strategy. 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.

Atos CEO quits as he loses power struggle over strategy

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance was on track to win the largest number of seats in parliament after the first round of voting on Sunday, projections from polling firms showed, though it remains unclear if it will obtain a majority.

His Ensemble (Together) alliance was projected by four firms to win between 225 and 310 seats in the second round of voting on June 19, with a new leftwing coalition finishing second, for a projected 150 to 220 seats.

Macron would need to secure at least 289 of the National Assembly's 577 seats to have a majority for pushing through legislation during his second five-year term.

Both groups scored around 25-26 percent of the popular vote that saw fewer than half of registered voters cast a ballot, resulting in record-low turnout projected at 52-53 percent.

The far-right National Rally headed by Marine Le Pen, who lost to Macron in the presidential vote in April, got an estimated 19 percent of the vote, which could result in 10 to 45 seats, according to the projections.

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&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance was on track to win the largest number of seats in parliament after the first round of voting on Sunday, projections from polling firms showed, though it remains unclear if it will obtain a majority.

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance was on track to win the largest number of seats in parliament after the first round of voting on Sunday, projections from polling firms showed, though it remains unclear if it will obtain a majority. His Ensemble (Together) alliance was projected by four firms to win between 225 and 310 seats in the second round of voting on June 19, with a new leftwing coalition finishing second, for a projected 150 to 220 seats. Macron would need to secure at least 289 of the National Assembly's 577 seats to have a majority for pushing through legislation during his second five-year term. Both groups scored around 25-26 percent of the popular vote that saw fewer than half of registered voters cast a ballot, resulting in record-low turnout projected at 52-53 percent. The far-right National Rally headed by Marine Le Pen, who lost to Macron in the presidential vote in April, got an estimated 19 percent of the vote, which could result in 10 to 45 seats, according to the projections. 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.

Emmanuel Macron's alliance to top parliament vote, majority uncertain: Projections

French President Emmanuel Macron is facing a tough battle for the control of the French parliament. Now, Marine Le Pen sails to parliamentary run-offs.

French parliamentary elections: Marine Le Pen sails to parliamentary run-offs

The state forecaster Meteo France has anticipated an early heatwave in France this week, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) in the south. The department said that this year’s heat wave will arrive early, with the temperatures expected to be similar to those recorded during the peak of summer. The heatwave is expected to hit the southern portion of the country&nbsp;first extending to the north. The temperatures are projected to reach 35 to 38 degrees Celsius from the middle of the week until the weekend and will not fall below 20 degrees, as per the state weather service, reported by France 24.

The reason behind this is due to a low-pressure system in the Atlantic between the Azores and Madeira, which encourages warm air to rise over Western Europe.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-spain-in-grip-of-heatwave-with-temperatures-forecast-to-hit-44c-487275">In pics: Spain in grip of heatwave with temperatures forecast to hit 44C+</a>

The national meteorological authority AEMET reported that the temperatures in the Guadalquivir valley in Seville and the neighbouring city of Cordoba are 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday (June 11).

Watch |&nbsp;France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

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The heatwave in France is predicted to climax between Thursday and Saturday, as per the state forecast department.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-offshore-methane-gas-leak-spotted-from-space-487582">&nbsp;Climate: Offshore methane gas leak spotted from space</a>

The hottest pre-summer heatwave in neighbouring Spain in at least 20 years is currently underway. According to AEMET experts, a cloud of hot air from North Africa has sent temperatures soaring, and the suffocating heatwave might linger until June 15, six days before summer officially begins on June 21. The heatwave is expected to worsen on Sunday (June 12) in the country, with the temperatures in regions of southern Spain reaching 43 degrees Celsius (110 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

The state forecaster Meteo France has anticipated an early heatwave in France this week, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) in the south.

The state forecaster Meteo France has anticipated an early heatwave in France this week, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) in the south. The department said that this year’s heat wave will arrive early, with the temperatures expected to be similar to those recorded during the peak of summer. The heatwave is expected to hit the southern portion of the country first extending to the north. The temperatures are projected to reach 35 to 38 degrees Celsius from the middle of the week until the weekend and will not fall below 20 degrees, as per the state weather service, reported by France 24. The reason behind this is due to a low-pressure system in the Atlantic between the Azores and Madeira, which encourages warm air to rise over Western Europe. Also read | In pics: Spain in grip of heatwave with temperatures forecast to hit 44C+ The national meteorological authority AEMET reported that the temperatures in the Guadalquivir valley in Seville and the neighbouring city of Cordoba are 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday (June 11). Watch | France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight The heatwave in France is predicted to climax between Thursday and Saturday, as per the state forecast department. Also read | Climate: Offshore methane gas leak spotted from space The hottest pre-summer heatwave in neighbouring Spain in at least 20 years is currently underway. According to AEMET experts, a cloud of hot air from North Africa has sent temperatures soaring, and the suffocating heatwave might linger until June 15, six days before summer officially begins on June 21. The heatwave is expected to worsen on Sunday (June 12) in the country, with the temperatures in regions of southern Spain reaching 43 degrees Celsius (110 degrees Fahrenheit). 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)

France's state forecast department anticipates heatwave to hit country early this year

France is set to vote in the first round of its parliamentary elections tomorrow. Emmanuel Macron's party is expected to retain control. Polls have predicted Macron's coalition will win 260-300 seats.

France: Emmanuel Macron's party expects to retain control

Parliamentary elections in France are set to begin. Polls predict Macron's coalition will win 260-300 seats. However, left coalition remains Macron's biggest threat.

France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

First round of polls is underway in France. Voters will select 577 members of the national assembly. This is first test for President Macron, however Left coalition remains Macron's biggest threat.

France's parliamentary elections: Melenchon's coalition a major hurdle for Macron?

France voted in the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday with President Emmanuel Macron hoping to win a majority backing his reform plans while a resurgent and newly unified left seeks to thwart his ambitions.

Elections for the 577 seats in the lower house National Assembly are a two-round process, with the shape of the new parliament becoming clear only after the second round on June 19.

The ballots provide a crucial coda to April's presidential election, when Macron won a second term and pledged a transformative new era after a first mandate dominated by protests, the coronavirus pandemic and Russia's war against Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-scholz-and-draghi-to-travel-to-kyiv-before-g7-summit-487365">Macron, Scholz and Draghi to travel to Kyiv before G7 summit: Report</a>

After a dismal performance in April, the French left has united in a coalition for what its leader Jean-Luc Melenchon dubs "the third round" of the presidential elections.

Opinion polls show the president's centrist alliance, Ensemble (Together), and Melenchon's NUPES coalition of hard left, Socialists, Communists and Greens neck-and-neck in the popular vote&nbsp;although the actual breakdown of parliamentary seats will depend on turnout in the second round.&nbsp;

'Gardening instead'

The abstention rate is predicted to be well over 50 percent in the first round, in what would be a new record for elections already marked by feeble participation in recent years.

At midday (1000 GMT) turnout was 18.43 per cent, according to an interior ministry estimate, down 0.8 points from the last election in 2017.

"I voted tactically in the presidential election, and that didn't change a thing," unemployed 59-year-old Alain Mendez told AFP at an outdoor cafe in Toulouse, southwestern France. "So today I'd rather do my gardening instead, and cook for my grandchildren."

If the president's alliance retains an overall majority, Macron will be able to carry on governing as before.&nbsp;

Falling short could prompt messy bill-by-bill deals with right-wing parties in parliament, or an unwanted cabinet reshuffle.

Watch |&nbsp;France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

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A win by the left-wing alliance seen as unlikely by analysts&nbsp;would spell political disaster for the president by raising the spectre of a clunky "cohabitation" where the prime minister and president hail from different factions.

Such a set-up has paralysed French politics in the past, most recently from 1997 to 2002 when right-wing president Jacques Chirac ruled in tandem with Socialist Lionel Jospin as premier.

Melenchon, a former Marxist, has already made clear his ambition to become prime minister and stymie Macron's plan to raise the French retirement age, a key part of his reform plans.

'Can't get anything done'

Polls have indicated that Macron's alliance is expected to win the largest number of seats but is by no means assured of getting over the line of 289 for an absolute majority.

"Some people say that parliamentary elections aren't important but that's not true," Arnaud, a 40-year old engineer, told AFPTV as cast his vote in central Paris. "If the president doesn't win a majority he can't get anything done."

While Macron and his European Union allies breathed a heavy sigh of relief after his solid, if unspectacular, presidential victory against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, the last weeks have brought no sense of a honeymoon.

Energy and food prices are soaring in France as elsewhere in Europe, the treatment of English fans at the Champions League final in Paris damaged France's image abroad and Macron has been accused by Ukraine of being too accommodating to Russia.

His new Disabilities Minister Damien Abad has faced two rape accusations which he has vehemently denied while new Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has yet to make an impact.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-why-does-france-need-another-election-can-it-dethrone-macron-486318">Explainer: Why does France need another election? Can it dethrone Macron?</a>

Macron has made clear that ministers who are standing in the election&nbsp;including Borne, who is making her first attempt at winning a seat will have to step down if they lose.

Macron's party and his allies currently hold an absolute majority of 345 seats in the 577-seat assembly.

Under France's system, a candidate needs over half the vote on the day as well as the backing of at least 25 per cent of registered voters in a constituency to be elected outright in the first round.

Otherwise the top two candidates in a constituency, as well as any other candidate who won the backing of at least 12.5 per cent of registered voters, go forward to the second round, where the candidate with the most votes wins.

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France voted in the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday with President Emmanuel Macron hoping to win a majority backing his reform plans while a resurgent and newly unified left seeks to thwart his ambitions.

France voted in the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday with President Emmanuel Macron hoping to win a majority backing his reform plans while a resurgent and newly unified left seeks to thwart his ambitions. Elections for the 577 seats in the lower house National Assembly are a two-round process, with the shape of the new parliament becoming clear only after the second round on June 19. The ballots provide a crucial coda to April's presidential election, when Macron won a second term and pledged a transformative new era after a first mandate dominated by protests, the coronavirus pandemic and Russia's war against Ukraine. Also read | Macron, Scholz and Draghi to travel to Kyiv before G7 summit: Report After a dismal performance in April, the French left has united in a coalition for what its leader Jean-Luc Melenchon dubs "the third round" of the presidential elections. Opinion polls show the president's centrist alliance, Ensemble (Together), and Melenchon's NUPES coalition of hard left, Socialists, Communists and Greens neck-and-neck in the popular vote although the actual breakdown of parliamentary seats will depend on turnout in the second round. 'Gardening instead' The abstention rate is predicted to be well over 50 percent in the first round, in what would be a new record for elections already marked by feeble participation in recent years. At midday (1000 GMT) turnout was 18.43 per cent, according to an interior ministry estimate, down 0.8 points from the last election in 2017. "I voted tactically in the presidential election, and that didn't change a thing," unemployed 59-year-old Alain Mendez told AFP at an outdoor cafe in Toulouse, southwestern France. "So today I'd rather do my gardening instead, and cook for my grandchildren." If the president's alliance retains an overall majority, Macron will be able to carry on governing as before. Falling short could prompt messy bill-by-bill deals with right-wing parties in parliament, or an unwanted cabinet reshuffle. Watch | France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight A win by the left-wing alliance seen as unlikely by analysts would spell political disaster for the president by raising the spectre of a clunky "cohabitation" where the prime minister and president hail from different factions. Such a set-up has paralysed French politics in the past, most recently from 1997 to 2002 when right-wing president Jacques Chirac ruled in tandem with Socialist Lionel Jospin as premier. Melenchon, a former Marxist, has already made clear his ambition to become prime minister and stymie Macron's plan to raise the French retirement age, a key part of his reform plans. 'Can't get anything done' Polls have indicated that Macron's alliance is expected to win the largest number of seats but is by no means assured of getting over the line of 289 for an absolute majority. "Some people say that parliamentary elections aren't important but that's not true," Arnaud, a 40-year old engineer, told AFPTV as cast his vote in central Paris. "If the president doesn't win a majority he can't get anything done." While Macron and his European Union allies breathed a heavy sigh of relief after his solid, if unspectacular, presidential victory against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, the last weeks have brought no sense of a honeymoon. Energy and food prices are soaring in France as elsewhere in Europe, the treatment of English fans at the Champions League final in Paris damaged France's image abroad and Macron has been accused by Ukraine of being too accommodating to Russia. His new Disabilities Minister Damien Abad has faced two rape accusations which he has vehemently denied while new Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has yet to make an impact. Also read | Explainer: Why does France need another election? Can it dethrone Macron? Macron has made clear that ministers who are standing in the election including Borne, who is making her first attempt at winning a seat will have to step down if they lose. Macron's party and his allies currently hold an absolute majority of 345 seats in the 577-seat assembly. Under France's system, a candidate needs over half the vote on the day as well as the backing of at least 25 per cent of registered voters in a constituency to be elected outright in the first round. Otherwise the top two candidates in a constituency, as well as any other candidate who won the backing of at least 12.5 per cent of registered voters, go forward to the second round, where the candidate with the most votes wins. 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.

Macron seeks majority in parliament vote as left mounts challenge

Qatar on Sunday named France's TotalEnergies as its first foreign partner to develop the world's largest natural gas field and eventually help ease Europe's energy fears.

The French energy major will have a 6.25-percent share of the giant North Field East project that will help Qatar increase its liquefied natural gas (LNG) production by more than 60 percent by 2027, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi told a news conference.

Kaabi said it was "a marriage more than an engagement" as the accord will last until 2054.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-reels-under-high-fuel-prices-protests-in-poland-486691">Europe reels under high fuel prices; protests in Poland</a>

Other foreign firms will also have joint venture stakes with state-owned Qatar Energy (QE) but none will be bigger than TotalEnergies, said Kaabi, who did not reveal names.

Industry sources say ExxonMobil, Shell and ConocoPhillips are all in line to take part in the giant $28-billion expansion, that Qatar had originally wanted to finance alone.

"We have finished the selection process and we have signed the agreements," Kaabi said, adding that names would be announced in the "near future".

With European nations scrambling to find alternatives to Russian oil and gas, LNG from North Field is expected to start coming on line in 2026.

TotalEnergies chief executive Patrick Pouyanne said the company's biggest deal with Qatar would help make up for the company's withdrawal from Russia in the wake of the Ukraine invasion.

Hard bargain

Without giving figures, Pouyanne indicated that Qatar had demanded a high price in the talks that started in 2019.

"Your team and yourself have been a very good defender of Qatar's interests in this project," he said in comments to the minister who is also the QE chief.

"Qatar Energy certainly drove a hard bargain. But for&nbsp;the biggest global LNG players like Shell and TotalEnergies, Qatar is too good to pass up. A stake in these LNG trains delivers scale, low-cost supply, great marketing opportunities, and a good partner," said Ben Cahill, an energy security specialist at the Center for Security and International Studies in Washington.

Watch |&nbsp;Can EU find alternate to Russian oil and gas sources?

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Qatar is already one of the world's top LNG producers, alongside the United States and Australia.&nbsp;

QE estimates that North Field holds about 10 percent of the world's known natural gas reserves.

The reserves extend under the sea into Iranian territory, where Tehran's efforts to exploit its South Pars gas field have been hindered by international sanctions.

South Korea, Japan and China have become the main markets for Qatar's LNG but since an energy crisis hit Europe last year, the Gulf state has helped Britain with extra supplies and also announced a cooperation deal with Germany.

Europe has for long rejected the long-term deals that Qatar seeks for its energy but the Ukraine conflict has forced a change in attitude.

Qatar’s expansion "underlines its position as a leader in this industry", said Bill Farren-Price, head of macro oil and gas research at the Enverus energy consultancy.

"With gas balances tight globally amid reduced Russian gas exports to Europe, LNG is a key and growing component in the energy transition and Qatar is determined to leverage its world-class North Field reserves to capture additional value through this deal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blaming-west-for-food-and-energy-crises-putin-guarantees-peaceful-exports-from-ukraine-484938">Blaming West for food and energy crises, Putin ‘guarantees’ peaceful exports from Ukraine</a>

"Its partnership with TotalEnergies reinforces Doha’s political partnership with Western powers while giving it even more marketing options."

The Ukraine conflict has also injected a new urgency into efforts around the world to develop new sources.

Tanzania on Saturday signed a framework agreement with British and Norwegian energy giants Shell and Equinor towards implementing a $30-billion project to export its natural gas.

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Qatar on Sunday named France's TotalEnergies as its first foreign partner to develop the world's largest natural gas field and eventually help ease Europe's energy fears.

Qatar on Sunday named France's TotalEnergies as its first foreign partner to develop the world's largest natural gas field and eventually help ease Europe's energy fears. The French energy major will have a 6.25-percent share of the giant North Field East project that will help Qatar increase its liquefied natural gas (LNG) production by more than 60 percent by 2027, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi told a news conference. Kaabi said it was "a marriage more than an engagement" as the accord will last until 2054. Also read | Europe reels under high fuel prices; protests in Poland Other foreign firms will also have joint venture stakes with state-owned Qatar Energy (QE) but none will be bigger than TotalEnergies, said Kaabi, who did not reveal names. Industry sources say ExxonMobil, Shell and ConocoPhillips are all in line to take part in the giant $28-billion expansion, that Qatar had originally wanted to finance alone. "We have finished the selection process and we have signed the agreements," Kaabi said, adding that names would be announced in the "near future". With European nations scrambling to find alternatives to Russian oil and gas, LNG from North Field is expected to start coming on line in 2026. TotalEnergies chief executive Patrick Pouyanne said the company's biggest deal with Qatar would help make up for the company's withdrawal from Russia in the wake of the Ukraine invasion. Hard bargain Without giving figures, Pouyanne indicated that Qatar had demanded a high price in the talks that started in 2019. "Your team and yourself have been a very good defender of Qatar's interests in this project," he said in comments to the minister who is also the QE chief. "Qatar Energy certainly drove a hard bargain. But for the biggest global LNG players like Shell and TotalEnergies, Qatar is too good to pass up. A stake in these LNG trains delivers scale, low-cost supply, great marketing opportunities, and a good partner," said Ben Cahill, an energy security specialist at the Center for Security and International Studies in Washington. Watch | Can EU find alternate to Russian oil and gas sources? Qatar is already one of the world's top LNG producers, alongside the United States and Australia. QE estimates that North Field holds about 10 percent of the world's known natural gas reserves. The reserves extend under the sea into Iranian territory, where Tehran's efforts to exploit its South Pars gas field have been hindered by international sanctions. South Korea, Japan and China have become the main markets for Qatar's LNG but since an energy crisis hit Europe last year, the Gulf state has helped Britain with extra supplies and also announced a cooperation deal with Germany. Europe has for long rejected the long-term deals that Qatar seeks for its energy but the Ukraine conflict has forced a change in attitude. Qatar’s expansion "underlines its position as a leader in this industry", said Bill Farren-Price, head of macro oil and gas research at the Enverus energy consultancy. "With gas balances tight globally amid reduced Russian gas exports to Europe, LNG is a key and growing component in the energy transition and Qatar is determined to leverage its world-class North Field reserves to capture additional value through this deal. Also read | Blaming West for food and energy crises, Putin ‘guarantees’ peaceful exports from Ukraine "Its partnership with TotalEnergies reinforces Doha’s political partnership with Western powers while giving it even more marketing options." The Ukraine conflict has also injected a new urgency into efforts around the world to develop new sources. Tanzania on Saturday signed a framework agreement with British and Norwegian energy giants Shell and Equinor towards implementing a $30-billion project to export its natural gas. 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.

TotalEnergies gains foothold in Qatar gas expansion

French parliament elections set to begin: Polls predict Macron's coalition will win 260-300 seats

France's parliamentary elections: Can Macron hold on to his majority?

Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend.

The first round is for the&nbsp;577 seats in the lower-house National Assembly.&nbsp;It is a two-round process and&nbsp;the second round will begin on June 19.&nbsp;These elections will determine the future of the country for the next 5 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-frances-parliamentary-elections-are-important-to-macron-487378" hreflang="en">Why France’s parliamentary elections are important to Macron</a>

Nupes, an&nbsp;alliance of&nbsp;left-wing parties, comprised of&nbsp;La France Insoumise,&nbsp;Socialist, Green&nbsp;and Communist parties,&nbsp;is expected to mount a serious challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's&nbsp;Ensemble&nbsp;alliance.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight

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Projections&nbsp;show that Macron and his allies, including the new party of his former prime minister Edouard Philippe, could fall short of a majority of 289 by as many as 40 seats.

Some 14 of Macron's ministers are competing in local races and could lose their job if they fail to win a seat.

On the other hand, Marine Le Pen, the right-leader could win a seat in her northern constituency from the first round, by gaining over 50 per cent&nbsp;of the votes.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend.

Voting has started in France for the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday. Polling stations opened at 8:00 am (0600 GMT), after voters in overseas territories cast ballots earlier in the weekend. The first round is for the 577 seats in the lower-house National Assembly. It is a two-round process and the second round will begin on June 19. These elections will determine the future of the country for the next 5 years. Also read | Why France’s parliamentary elections are important to Macron Nupes, an alliance of left-wing parties, comprised of La France Insoumise, Socialist, Green and Communist parties, is expected to mount a serious challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's Ensemble alliance. Watch | France's parliamentary elections: Polls suggest neck-to-neck fight Projections show that Macron and his allies, including the new party of his former prime minister Edouard Philippe, could fall short of a majority of 289 by as many as 40 seats. Some 14 of Macron's ministers are competing in local races and could lose their job if they fail to win a seat. On the other hand, Marine Le Pen, the right-leader could win a seat in her northern constituency from the first round, by gaining over 50 per cent of the votes. (with inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Polls open in French parliamentary election

On 13th November 2015&nbsp;Paris, the capital of France was under a&nbsp;series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin&nbsp;at 9:15&nbsp;pm and were on the&nbsp;Stade de France stadium,&nbsp;bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan&nbsp;concert hall.

As the biggest criminal trial&nbsp;ever held in France has entered its final weeks,&nbsp;French prosecutors have demanded&nbsp;life sentences for the 12 men at trial for the attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-attacks-suspect-says-he-changed-his-mind-at-last-moment-470966">Paris attacks suspect says he changed his mind at last moment</a>

All the evidences are reviewed but still many questions remain unanswered.&nbsp;

The attacks killed 130 people and injured more than 490.

The key accused, Salah Abdeslam, is believed to be the last survivor from the 10 men who struck the city. Most of them killed themselves or were killed by police.

Watch |&nbsp;Paris attack suspect in trial

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The prosecutor Camille Hennetier told the court of the “cruelty of the terrorists who fired again and again and took pleasure in killing”, and said the attacks were mostly prepared outside France.

Abdeslam, 32, a Brussels-born French citizen, who is also alleged to be a part of the attack, told the court that he had backed out of the attack at a bar, however the&nbsp;prosecutors said his explosive belt simply malfunctioned.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-accused-of-stealing-banksy-tribute-to-bataclan-victims-go-on-trial-486280">Also read |&nbsp;Eight accused of stealing Banksy tribute to Bataclan victims go on trial</a>

Many prosecutors believe that many things "still remain in the dark".

Mohammed Abrini, another accused had also been part of the group in Paris, after which he returned to Belgium.&nbsp;He was later arrested after the March 2016 attacks in the Brussels airport and subway.&nbsp;

“Salah Abdeslam and Mohammed Abrini made no mystery of their jihadi engagement, but both tried to cover the tracks about their ideas”, the Paris prosecutor Nicolas Le Bris told the court.

The verdict is expected on 29 June.

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On 13th November 2015 Paris, the capital of France was under a series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin at 9:15 pm and were on the Stade de France stadium, bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan concert hall.

On 13th November 2015 Paris, the capital of France was under a series of coordinated Islamist terrorist attacks. The attacks begin at 9:15 pm and were on the Stade de France stadium, bars and restaurants and a rock gig at the Bataclan concert hall. As the biggest criminal trial ever held in France has entered its final weeks, French prosecutors have demanded life sentences for the 12 men at trial for the attack. Also read | Paris attacks suspect says he changed his mind at last moment All the evidences are reviewed but still many questions remain unanswered. The attacks killed 130 people and injured more than 490. The key accused, Salah Abdeslam, is believed to be the last survivor from the 10 men who struck the city. Most of them killed themselves or were killed by police. Watch | Paris attack suspect in trial The prosecutor Camille Hennetier told the court of the “cruelty of the terrorists who fired again and again and took pleasure in killing”, and said the attacks were mostly prepared outside France. Abdeslam, 32, a Brussels-born French citizen, who is also alleged to be a part of the attack, told the court that he had backed out of the attack at a bar, however the prosecutors said his explosive belt simply malfunctioned. Also read | Eight accused of stealing Banksy tribute to Bataclan victims go on trial Many prosecutors believe that many things "still remain in the dark". Mohammed Abrini, another accused had also been part of the group in Paris, after which he returned to Belgium. He was later arrested after the March 2016 attacks in the Brussels airport and subway. “Salah Abdeslam and Mohammed Abrini made no mystery of their jihadi engagement, but both tried to cover the tracks about their ideas”, the Paris prosecutor Nicolas Le Bris told the court. The verdict is expected on 29 June. 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.

Prosecutors ask for life sentences for 12 men at trial for Paris terror attack

Kylian Mbappe's 83rd-minute leveller let France hold early scoring Austria at a draw. Mbappe appeared as replacement for Antoine Griexmann in second half at Ernst-Happel Stadium and scored in his characteristic fashion. The goal brought France level with Austria. The match was a draw at 1-1.

Andreas Weimann scored for Austria.

This result means that France is still without a win three games into UEFA Nations League. France had won last year's edition.

They are bottom of League A, Group 1 with two points after losing 2-1 at home to Denmark last weekend and then drawing 1-1 in Croatia on Monday.

Denmark is at the top of the group despite a 1-0 hom defeat against Croatia in Copehagen on Friday.

France will play their final match of the June international break at home to Croatia on Monday before the group campaign concludes in September.

"There is never any need to worry. We should always be proud and just try to improve," Mbappe told broadcaster TF1 before admitting that he had still not fully recovered from the injury that forced him off against Denmark.

"No but if the coach needs me I will be there. There is just one game left before the holidays so I can force it a little bit."

The match, held in Vienna went ahead despite concerns about a huge hole that opened up on the pitch during Austria-Denmark match on Monday.

Against France, Austria scored early just eight minute into the game. Konrad Laimer's low ball in from the right was converted by the Bristol City forward Weimann.

France coach Didier Deschamps sent on Mbappe for Griezmann in the 63rd minute and RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku came on for Kingsley Coman 11 minutes from time as they stepped up their search for the leveller.

Mbappe had not played against Croatia after coming off with a knee knock at half-time against Denmark, and he was fresh enough to make the difference for the visitors.

A quick exchange of passes with Nkunku led to the Paris Saint-Germain star breaking through to fire past goalkeeper Patrick Pentz and score his 10th goal for his country this season.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kylian Mbappe's 83rd-minute leveller let France hold early scoring Austria at a draw. Mbappe appeared as replacement for Antoine Griexmann in second half at Ernst-Happel Stadium and scored in his characteristic fashion.

Kylian Mbappe's 83rd-minute leveller let France hold early scoring Austria at a draw. Mbappe appeared as replacement for Antoine Griexmann in second half at Ernst-Happel Stadium and scored in his characteristic fashion. The goal brought France level with Austria. The match was a draw at 1-1. Andreas Weimann scored for Austria. This result means that France is still without a win three games into UEFA Nations League. France had won last year's edition. They are bottom of League A, Group 1 with two points after losing 2-1 at home to Denmark last weekend and then drawing 1-1 in Croatia on Monday. Denmark is at the top of the group despite a 1-0 hom defeat against Croatia in Copehagen on Friday. France will play their final match of the June international break at home to Croatia on Monday before the group campaign concludes in September. "There is never any need to worry. We should always be proud and just try to improve," Mbappe told broadcaster TF1 before admitting that he had still not fully recovered from the injury that forced him off against Denmark. "No but if the coach needs me I will be there. There is just one game left before the holidays so I can force it a little bit." The match, held in Vienna went ahead despite concerns about a huge hole that opened up on the pitch during Austria-Denmark match on Monday. Against France, Austria scored early just eight minute into the game. Konrad Laimer's low ball in from the right was converted by the Bristol City forward Weimann. France coach Didier Deschamps sent on Mbappe for Griezmann in the 63rd minute and RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku came on for Kingsley Coman 11 minutes from time as they stepped up their search for the leveller. Mbappe had not played against Croatia after coming off with a knee knock at half-time against Denmark, and he was fresh enough to make the difference for the visitors. A quick exchange of passes with Nkunku led to the Paris Saint-Germain star breaking through to fire past goalkeeper Patrick Pentz and score his 10th goal for his country this season. (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 ×

UEFA Nations League: Mbappe equaliser salvages draw for France against Austria

To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.58 million)settlement, a move Canberra hopes will help repair the rift between the two countries.

Australia last year cancelled a multi-billion-dollar order for submarines with the French military shipyard Naval Group and opted instead for an alternative deal with the United States and Britain.

The move enraged Paris and triggered an unprecedented diplomatic crisis. It has also riled China, the major rising power in the Indo-Pacific region.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Saturday in a news conference in Sydney that his government had reached a "fair and equitable" settlement with the Naval Group.

The cancellation last year of Canberra's order for a new conventional submarine fleet with Naval Group - valued at $40 billion in 2016 and reckoned to cost much more today - came after the previous government signed a trilateral security partnership with the United States and Britain.&nbsp;

The trilateral deal was for a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. and British technology.&nbsp;

Albanese said the settlement would allow Australia to move forward in its relationship with France.

"Given the gravity of the challenges that we face both in the region and globally, it is essential that Australia and France once again unite to defend our shared principles and interests," Albanese said in a separate statement.&nbsp;

Australia, the United States, France and its partners have all expressed concern about China's growing influence in the Pacific, a region that has traditionally been under their sway. Their concerns increased after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security pact earlier in the year.

"We deeply respect France’s role and active engagement in the Indo-Pacific," Albanese said.&nbsp; 
He added he was looking forward to taking up French President Emmanuel Macron's invitation to visit Paris.

[with inputs from agencies]

 
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To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.

To repair the damage caused due to a controversial decision last year to scrap the French submarine deal, Australia's new Labor-led government has reached a 555 million euro($583.58 million)settlement, a move Canberra hopes will help repair the rift between the two countries. Australia last year cancelled a multi-billion-dollar order for submarines with the French military shipyard Naval Group and opted instead for an alternative deal with the United States and Britain. The move enraged Paris and triggered an unprecedented diplomatic crisis. It has also riled China, the major rising power in the Indo-Pacific region. Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Saturday in a news conference in Sydney that his government had reached a "fair and equitable" settlement with the Naval Group. The cancellation last year of Canberra's order for a new conventional submarine fleet with Naval Group - valued at $40 billion in 2016 and reckoned to cost much more today - came after the previous government signed a trilateral security partnership with the United States and Britain. The trilateral deal was for a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines with U.S. and British technology. Albanese said the settlement would allow Australia to move forward in its relationship with France. "Given the gravity of the challenges that we face both in the region and globally, it is essential that Australia and France once again unite to defend our shared principles and interests," Albanese said in a separate statement. Australia, the United States, France and its partners have all expressed concern about China's growing influence in the Pacific, a region that has traditionally been under their sway. Their concerns increased after China and the Solomon Islands signed a security pact earlier in the year. "We deeply respect France’s role and active engagement in the Indo-Pacific," Albanese said. He added he was looking forward to taking up French President Emmanuel Macron's invitation to visit Paris. [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.

Australia-France reach 555 million euro settlement deal

Taiwan has got support from Europe. French lawmakers visited Taiwan. However, China has denounced the French lawmakers' visit.

Taiwan draws support from Europe as French lawmakers visit Taiwan

Pressure was growing Friday on French authorities after the surprise revelation CCTV footage from the Stade de France during the Champions League final last month has been deleted, with critics alleging a deliberate cover-up. The French Football Federation revealed Thursday to a commission at the French Senate the images had been destroyed automatically having not been subject to a warrant from judicial authorities, in line with French law.&nbsp;

The revelation adds to the controversy after crowd control problems, tear gas and street crime marred the final at Paris' Stade de France between Liverpool and Real Madrid on May 28. France's reputation has taken a battering as laid out in a government report on Friday. It said the "chain of failures" by French authorities has inflicted "severe damage" on the image of the country.&nbsp;

Opposition politicians seized on the latest revelations about the CCTV footage to hammer the authorities. "It's called covering your tracks," far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen told BFMTV on Friday.&nbsp;

"The fact that there is no CCTV footage allows their huge lies to be covered," Le Pen added, pointing to the initial claim from the French government that fake tickets on an 'industrial-scale' caused the pandemonium. Police asked Stade de France for the footage, but only on Thursday evening after it became public that the images had been destroyed, a source close to the case told AFP on Friday.&nbsp;

"Yesterday's information that the images would not be kept for one month, but only a few days, led us to ask for them," Bobigny prosecutors, in charge of the investigation into fake tickets, said. The State de France is allowed to store CCTV footage for a maximum of 30 days, but the servers only have the capacity to store them for seven or eight.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-chaos-timeline-uefa-launches-investigation-uk-pm-slams-french-officials-483835">Champions League final chaos timeline: UEFA launches investigation, UK PM slams French officials</a>

On Twitter French police said Thursday the images taken by the Stade de France cameras may no longer exist but that the police still had their images. But Socialist vice-president of the Senate's law commission David Assouline said Friday on Franceinfo radio he was "stupefied" by the news, adding it demonstrated an "incredible lack of co-ordination" between the police and politicians.&nbsp;

Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram, questioned by the Senate commission after the FFF delegation, said that he failed "to understand why the videos were destroyed". "We're heading straight towards a state scandal," the head of the opposition Republicans (LR) faction in the Senate, Bruno Retailleau, told RFI radio, adding the destruction of the CCTV footage was an "intentional act ... to make evidence disappear".&nbsp;

But ruling party MP Aurore Berge said on RMC radio that there were enough elements for the investigation. "We have plenty of witness statements and images that should nonetheless guide (the investigators)," Berge said. On Thursday the chief of the Paris police Didier Lallement admitted in front of the Senate commission investigating the May 28 chaos that the security operations for the Champions League final were a "failure".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ucl-final-chaos-paris-police-chief-admits-possible-error-on-ticket-fakes-486581">UCL final chaos: Paris Police chief admits possible error on fake tickets</a>

"It was a failure because people were pushed around and attacked. It's a failure because the image of the country was tarnished," he said. Lallement and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin initially blamed the mayhem on as many as 40,000 Liverpool fans who massed at the stadium without tickets or with counterfeit tickets. That figure has been widely disputed since by witnesses and media using images from the ground, and Lallement admitted yesterday: "Perhaps I made a mistake with the figure I gave to the minister".&nbsp;

He acknowledged there were not 30,000 to 40,000 "at the gates of the stadium" but maintained that several thousands were "in the vicinity" of police checkpoints at the Stade de France to the north of the capital. Many Liverpool supporters struggled to enter the stadium, leading to kick-off being delayed by more than half an hour and crushes at the entry gates, where police fired tear gas.&nbsp;

The government's initial decision to blame Liverpool fans for the problems caused tensions between France and Britain, while raising questions about the capacity of Paris to host the Rugby World Cup next year and the Olympic Games in 2024.

Pressure was growing Friday on French authorities after the surprise revelation CCTV footage from the Stade de France during the Champions League final last month has been deleted, with critics alleging a deliberate cover-up.

Pressure was growing Friday on French authorities after the surprise revelation CCTV footage from the Stade de France during the Champions League final last month has been deleted, with critics alleging a deliberate cover-up. The French Football Federation revealed Thursday to a commission at the French Senate the images had been destroyed automatically having not been subject to a warrant from judicial authorities, in line with French law. The revelation adds to the controversy after crowd control problems, tear gas and street crime marred the final at Paris' Stade de France between Liverpool and Real Madrid on May 28. France's reputation has taken a battering as laid out in a government report on Friday. It said the "chain of failures" by French authorities has inflicted "severe damage" on the image of the country. Opposition politicians seized on the latest revelations about the CCTV footage to hammer the authorities. "It's called covering your tracks," far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen told BFMTV on Friday. "The fact that there is no CCTV footage allows their huge lies to be covered," Le Pen added, pointing to the initial claim from the French government that fake tickets on an 'industrial-scale' caused the pandemonium. Police asked Stade de France for the footage, but only on Thursday evening after it became public that the images had been destroyed, a source close to the case told AFP on Friday. "Yesterday's information that the images would not be kept for one month, but only a few days, led us to ask for them," Bobigny prosecutors, in charge of the investigation into fake tickets, said. The State de France is allowed to store CCTV footage for a maximum of 30 days, but the servers only have the capacity to store them for seven or eight. Also Read: Champions League final chaos timeline: UEFA launches investigation, UK PM slams French officials On Twitter French police said Thursday the images taken by the Stade de France cameras may no longer exist but that the police still had their images. But Socialist vice-president of the Senate's law commission David Assouline said Friday on Franceinfo radio he was "stupefied" by the news, adding it demonstrated an "incredible lack of co-ordination" between the police and politicians. Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram, questioned by the Senate commission after the FFF delegation, said that he failed "to understand why the videos were destroyed". "We're heading straight towards a state scandal," the head of the opposition Republicans (LR) faction in the Senate, Bruno Retailleau, told RFI radio, adding the destruction of the CCTV footage was an "intentional act ... to make evidence disappear". But ruling party MP Aurore Berge said on RMC radio that there were enough elements for the investigation. "We have plenty of witness statements and images that should nonetheless guide (the investigators)," Berge said. On Thursday the chief of the Paris police Didier Lallement admitted in front of the Senate commission investigating the May 28 chaos that the security operations for the Champions League final were a "failure". Also Read: UCL final chaos: Paris Police chief admits possible error on fake tickets "It was a failure because people were pushed around and attacked. It's a failure because the image of the country was tarnished," he said. Lallement and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin initially blamed the mayhem on as many as 40,000 Liverpool fans who massed at the stadium without tickets or with counterfeit tickets. That figure has been widely disputed since by witnesses and media using images from the ground, and Lallement admitted yesterday: "Perhaps I made a mistake with the figure I gave to the minister". He acknowledged there were not 30,000 to 40,000 "at the gates of the stadium" but maintained that several thousands were "in the vicinity" of police checkpoints at the Stade de France to the north of the capital. Many Liverpool supporters struggled to enter the stadium, leading to kick-off being delayed by more than half an hour and crushes at the entry gates, where police fired tear gas. The government's initial decision to blame Liverpool fans for the problems caused tensions between France and Britain, while raising questions about the capacity of Paris to host the Rugby World Cup next year and the Olympic Games in 2024.

Pressure grows on France after CCTV footage of Champions League final chaos deleted

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