Former French president Sarkozy is going to be tried on corruption charges.

Ex-French president faces corruption charges

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<p>Remi Lucidi, a French daredevil known for his high-rise stunts, passed away on Thursday after falling off the 68-story Tregunter Tower complex in Hong Kong. He was famous for climbing several towering structures around the world.</p>

<p>On Saturday, cops visited a Tsim Sha Tsui hostel where Remi Lucidi, 30, checked in on July 17, reported South China Morning Post.</p>

<p>Remi climbed famous skyscrapers in Dubai, Bulgaria, and France in 2022. A social media post from October 2022 showed him climbing France's tallest chimney and walking around the edge of the 300-metre-high structure without any safety gear.</p>

<p>The hostel owner, Gurjit Kaur, told the Post that Lucidi was "humble and friendly." She said, "He was healthy and fit. I feel sad." Police collected his belongings from his room, including his laptop and passport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A night shift worker said he spoke to Lucidi several times. The Frenchman told him that he was in Hong Kong on holiday. He added, "Lucidi told me he was going to hike a mountain when I asked where he was going. He said he wanted to hike a lot when he was here."</p>

<h2><strong>'Enigma' Daredevil Remi Lucidi</strong></h2>

<p>Remi Lucidi was born in Montpellier City, but he spent his time in Hong Kong, the Daily Mail reported. He travelled the world in search of exhilarating heights. He documented his adventures and posted them on social media. His Instagram account was @remnigma. Lucidi described himself as a photographer. He began his escapades in 2016. His first post was a video compilation of the French daredevil climbing various things like cranes, bridges, and a Ferris wheel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Remi Lucidi's Tragic Death</strong></h2>

<p>Lucidi, who used the name Remi Enigma on his social media pages, ventured onto the residential block in Hong Kong and got trapped on a penthouse window on the 68th floor of Tregunter Tower at about 07:30 pm on Thursday. A domestic helper saw him stuck at the window and called the police for help. However, Lucidi fell off the building on Tregunter Path before the officers arrived. They found his sports camera, containing videos of his extreme adventures.</p>

<p>According to the police, Lucidi arrived at Tregunter Tower around 6 pm on Thursday and told the security guard he was visiting a friend on the 40th floor. Before the guard found out the resident did not know Lucidi, he entered the lift. CCTV footage showed Lucidi getting out on the 49th floor and taking the stairs to the top floor.</p>

<p>His latest Instagram picture, posted five days ago with the caption "Hong Kong",&nbsp;showed Times Square in Causeway Bay. Several social media users left "rest in peace" comments on the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Remi Lucidi, a French daredevil known for his high-rise stunts, passed away on Thursday after falling off the 68-story Tregunter Tower complex in Hong Kong. He was famous for climbing several towering structures around the world.

Remi Lucidi, a French daredevil known for his high-rise stunts, passed away on Thursday after falling off the 68-story Tregunter Tower complex in Hong Kong. He was famous for climbing several towering structures around the world. On Saturday, cops visited a Tsim Sha Tsui hostel where Remi Lucidi, 30, checked in on July 17, reported South China Morning Post. Remi climbed famous skyscrapers in Dubai, Bulgaria, and France in 2022. A social media post from October 2022 showed him climbing France's tallest chimney and walking around the edge of the 300-metre-high structure without any safety gear. The hostel owner, Gurjit Kaur, told the Post that Lucidi was "humble and friendly." She said, "He was healthy and fit. I feel sad." Police collected his belongings from his room, including his laptop and passport. A night shift worker said he spoke to Lucidi several times. The Frenchman told him that he was in Hong Kong on holiday. He added, "Lucidi told me he was going to hike a mountain when I asked where he was going. He said he wanted to hike a lot when he was here." 'Enigma' Daredevil Remi Lucidi Remi Lucidi was born in Montpellier City, but he spent his time in Hong Kong, the Daily Mail reported. He travelled the world in search of exhilarating heights. He documented his adventures and posted them on social media. His Instagram account was @remnigma. Lucidi described himself as a photographer. He began his escapades in 2016. His first post was a video compilation of the French daredevil climbing various things like cranes, bridges, and a Ferris wheel. Remi Lucidi's Tragic Death Lucidi, who used the name Remi Enigma on his social media pages, ventured onto the residential block in Hong Kong and got trapped on a penthouse window on the 68th floor of Tregunter Tower at about 07:30 pm on Thursday. A domestic helper saw him stuck at the window and called the police for help. However, Lucidi fell off the building on Tregunter Path before the officers arrived. They found his sports camera, containing videos of his extreme adventures. According to the police, Lucidi arrived at Tregunter Tower around 6 pm on Thursday and told the security guard he was visiting a friend on the 40th floor. Before the guard found out the resident did not know Lucidi, he entered the lift. CCTV footage showed Lucidi getting out on the 49th floor and taking the stairs to the top floor. His latest Instagram picture, posted five days ago with the caption "Hong Kong", showed Times Square in Causeway Bay. Several social media users left "rest in peace" comments on the post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who was Remi Lucidi? All you need to know about French daredevil who died after falling from 68th floor

The first giant panda to have been born on French soil received an emotional goodbye as a departed from the country.

Yuan is the first son of the first panda loaned to France by China

A two-year-old boy went missing from his grandparent's garden in the French Alps police have been scrambling to find the toddler but so far there has been no progress.

2-year-old boy goes missing in French mountains: search for toddler underway

France has experienced six days of violent demonstrations in response to the shooting of a teenager during a police traffic stop. Gatherings outside Town Halls across France opposed the demonstrations and called for a return to the Republican order.

Violent demonstrations in France spark outrage and arrests

The president of Madagascar is under fire when documents revealed that Andry Rajoelina is French. The revelation implies that he signed a contract with Paris in 2014 to get French citizenship.

Leaked documents show Madagascar's President to be partially French

<p>Media reports citing the prosecutor revealed that a man, who was held for stabbing four young children at a playground in the French resort town of Annecy is now facing charges of attempted murder.</p>

<p>On June 8, a distressing incident unfolded near a lake in the French Alps, where a knife attack took place. The attack targeted a playground area and resulted in injuries to four preschool children and two adults who were present at the scene.</p>

<p>French prosecutors have stated that the suspected knifeman, who is of Syrian nationality, does not appear to have any connections to terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a press conference, they confirmed that the suspect is scheduled to appear in court later on Saturday to face charges related to the attack.</p>

<h2><strong>Victims out of danger&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A local Annecy prosecutor has provided an update on the victims of the attack. The four children, including a British girl who was on vacation with her parents in Annecy, are no longer in life-threatening conditions. Additionally, the two adults who were injured during the attack are now out of danger.</p>

<h2><strong>Suspect's actions and arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Videos captured the suspect in the vicinity of the park near Lake Annecy, where the incident took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-francisco-nine-people-shot-at-in-yet-another-targeted-shooting-incident-602856">San Francisco: Nine people shot at in yet another 'targeted' shooting incident</a></p>

<p>The footage shows the suspect wearing a bandana and sunglasses, running around the park and randomly attacking people. Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect at the scene. The suspect was later interrogated.</p>

<h2><strong>Eyewitness accounts</strong></h2>

<p>Anthony Le Tallec, a former professional footballer who happened to be running in the park during the attack, shared his account with the local Dauphine Libere newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archbishop-of-canterbury-urges-anglican-church-of-uganda-to-reject-anti-lgbt-law-602861">Archbishop of Canterbury urges Anglican church of Uganda to reject anti-LGBT law</a></p>

<p>He recalled, "He wanted to attack everyone. I moved away, and then he lunged at an old man and woman and stabbed the old man."</p>

<h2><strong>The intervention of the "Backpack Hero"</strong></h2>

<p>A bystander named Henri, who has been dubbed the "backpack hero," was present near the playground when he witnessed the man attacking children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Henri expressed his belief that it was a higher power that led him to be there and able to intervene. In an interview with CNEWS, he stated, "All I know is that I was not there by chance."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft</strong></p>

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<p>Henri further explained, "On my journey to the cathedrals, I crossed paths with this man, and I acted instinctively. It was unthinkable to do nothing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Video footage shared on social media platforms shows Henri attempting to block the assailant using one of his backpacks. He even pursued the attacker into the playground and threw one of his bags at him. Henri described feeling a strong force within him, guiding his actions.</p>

<h2><strong>Trusting divine guidance</strong></h2>

<p>Henri revealed, "I let myself be guided by providence and the Virgin Mary. I said my adieu. They would decide what would happen."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also mentioned that other young individuals joined him in pursuing the attacker, aiming to scare him and make it clear that he could not continue his harmful actions.</p>

<p>As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to gather evidence and seek further clarity on the motives behind the attack. The heroic actions of bystanders like Henri demonstrate the resilience and courage of individuals in the face of such tragic events.</p>

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Media reports citing the prosecutor revealed that a man, who was held for stabbing four young children at a playground in the French resort town of Annecy is now facing charges of attempted murder.

Media reports citing the prosecutor revealed that a man, who was held for stabbing four young children at a playground in the French resort town of Annecy is now facing charges of attempted murder. On June 8, a distressing incident unfolded near a lake in the French Alps, where a knife attack took place. The attack targeted a playground area and resulted in injuries to four preschool children and two adults who were present at the scene. French prosecutors have stated that the suspected knifeman, who is of Syrian nationality, does not appear to have any connections to terrorism. During a press conference, they confirmed that the suspect is scheduled to appear in court later on Saturday to face charges related to the attack. Victims out of danger A local Annecy prosecutor has provided an update on the victims of the attack. The four children, including a British girl who was on vacation with her parents in Annecy, are no longer in life-threatening conditions. Additionally, the two adults who were injured during the attack are now out of danger. Suspect's actions and arrest Videos captured the suspect in the vicinity of the park near Lake Annecy, where the incident took place. Also Read | San Francisco: Nine people shot at in yet another 'targeted' shooting incident The footage shows the suspect wearing a bandana and sunglasses, running around the park and randomly attacking people. Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspect at the scene. The suspect was later interrogated. Eyewitness accounts Anthony Le Tallec, a former professional footballer who happened to be running in the park during the attack, shared his account with the local Dauphine Libere newspaper. Also Read | Archbishop of Canterbury urges Anglican church of Uganda to reject anti-LGBT law He recalled, "He wanted to attack everyone. I moved away, and then he lunged at an old man and woman and stabbed the old man." The intervention of the "Backpack Hero" A bystander named Henri, who has been dubbed the "backpack hero," was present near the playground when he witnessed the man attacking children. Henri expressed his belief that it was a higher power that led him to be there and able to intervene. In an interview with CNEWS, he stated, "All I know is that I was not there by chance." Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft × Henri further explained, "On my journey to the cathedrals, I crossed paths with this man, and I acted instinctively. It was unthinkable to do nothing." Video footage shared on social media platforms shows Henri attempting to block the assailant using one of his backpacks. He even pursued the attacker into the playground and threw one of his bags at him. Henri described feeling a strong force within him, guiding his actions. Trusting divine guidance Henri revealed, "I let myself be guided by providence and the Virgin Mary. I said my adieu. They would decide what would happen." He also mentioned that other young individuals joined him in pursuing the attacker, aiming to scare him and make it clear that he could not continue his harmful actions. As the investigation progresses, authorities will continue to gather evidence and seek further clarity on the motives behind the attack. The heroic actions of bystanders like Henri demonstrate the resilience and courage of individuals in the face of such tragic events. 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. ×

Annecy knife attack: Man held for stabbing 4 children in French resort faces attempted murder charges

French prosecutors have demanded that former president Nicolas Sarkozy face a new trial over alleged Libyan financing of his 2007 election campaign.

French prosecutors demand Sarkozy face trial over alleged Libya money

<p>Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in France&nbsp;on&nbsp;Labour Day to&nbsp;protest and&nbsp;vent their anger against President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reform, and clashed with security forces across the country,&nbsp;on Monday (May 1). The French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin told reporters that at least 108 police were wounded and 291 people detained across France as violence erupted at May Day protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What happened at these protests?</strong></p>

<p>The French interior ministry had earlier said that at least 782,000 people protested across France on Monday for May Day out of which some 112,000 protesters were in Paris alone. Meanwhile, the CGT union said it counted 2.3 million protesters across France, including 550,000 in the capital, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to media reports, protesters clashed with security personnel which has since left over 100 police officers injured and nearly 300 people were arrested across France after violence erupted in several cities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Protesters in the capital city of Paris were seen throwing projectiles at police and breaking windows of businesses such as banks and estate agents while security forces responded by deploying tear gas and water cannons, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Paris protesters also torched a bicycle docking station where flames burned from the street and black smoke billowed into the sky while police were seen pushing back on the crowd of onlookers, as per reports from Reuters.</p>

<p>According to the interior minister, one officer was badly injured when he was struck by a fiery projectile, as demonstrators pelted police with Molotov cocktails and fireworks. This came after police sought to disperse the protest at its end point which prompted the fire service to intervene.</p>

<p>In southern France’s Toulouse tensions erupted during demonstrations after which&nbsp;security forces deployed tear gas to disperse the protesters. Meanwhile, four cars were set on fire in the southeastern city of Lyon, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, in the southern city of Marseille protesters briefly occupied the luxury InterContinental hotel where they reportedly broke a few flowerpots and damaged furniture.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>French PM slams protests&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>France has been rocked by nationwide protests against president Macron who last month signed a law to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, despite months of strikes against the bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In many cities in France, this May Day was a moment for responsible mobilisation and commitment. The scenes of violence on the sidelines of the demonstrations are all the more unacceptable,” French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, the interior minister also said that such a high toll of police wounded was “extremely rare” for a May 1 protest day, as the turnout was significantly higher than May Day last year but quite lower than some of the biggest protests seen against the pension reform this year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in France on Labour Day to protest and vent their anger against President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reform, and clashed with security forces across the country, on Monday (May 1).

Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets in France on Labour Day to protest and vent their anger against President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reform, and clashed with security forces across the country, on Monday (May 1). The French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin told reporters that at least 108 police were wounded and 291 people detained across France as violence erupted at May Day protests. What happened at these protests? The French interior ministry had earlier said that at least 782,000 people protested across France on Monday for May Day out of which some 112,000 protesters were in Paris alone. Meanwhile, the CGT union said it counted 2.3 million protesters across France, including 550,000 in the capital, reported news agency AFP. According to media reports, protesters clashed with security personnel which has since left over 100 police officers injured and nearly 300 people were arrested across France after violence erupted in several cities. Protesters in the capital city of Paris were seen throwing projectiles at police and breaking windows of businesses such as banks and estate agents while security forces responded by deploying tear gas and water cannons, reported AFP. Meanwhile, Paris protesters also torched a bicycle docking station where flames burned from the street and black smoke billowed into the sky while police were seen pushing back on the crowd of onlookers, as per reports from Reuters. According to the interior minister, one officer was badly injured when he was struck by a fiery projectile, as demonstrators pelted police with Molotov cocktails and fireworks. This came after police sought to disperse the protest at its end point which prompted the fire service to intervene. In southern France’s Toulouse tensions erupted during demonstrations after which security forces deployed tear gas to disperse the protesters. Meanwhile, four cars were set on fire in the southeastern city of Lyon, reported AFP. Furthermore, in the southern city of Marseille protesters briefly occupied the luxury InterContinental hotel where they reportedly broke a few flowerpots and damaged furniture. French PM slams protests France has been rocked by nationwide protests against president Macron who last month signed a law to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, despite months of strikes against the bill. “In many cities in France, this May Day was a moment for responsible mobilisation and commitment. The scenes of violence on the sidelines of the demonstrations are all the more unacceptable,” French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne wrote on Twitter. Similarly, the interior minister also said that such a high toll of police wounded was “extremely rare” for a May 1 protest day, as the turnout was significantly higher than May Day last year but quite lower than some of the biggest protests seen against the pension reform this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French May Day protests: At least 108 police officers injured, 291 arrested; PM slams 'unacceptable' violence

<p>French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to.</p>

<p>Schiappa, who is currently the country's minister for the social economy and associations, was featured in Playboy's French edition this month which will hit shelves on Thursday, although her photos were already leaked in the French media.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the minister received fresh criticism from her cabinet colleagues for her stunt. In the photographs which will accompany the 12-page long interview, the minister strikes various poses in revealing outfits of&nbsp;blue, red and white colour of the French tricolour.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-minister-faces-flak-for-appearing-on-playboy-cover-amidst-mass-agitation-578414">French minister faces flak for appearing on Playboy cover amidst mass agitation</a></p>

<p>“If some (women) want to pose in a men’s magazine and enjoy it, I think that we shouldn’t blame them,” said Schiappa, while speaking to the magazine.</p>

<p>The minister called Pamela Anderson her inspiration after the US glamour model said that shooting for Playboy had been “an act of emancipation”.</p>

<p>“Like the Miss France. If they enjoy winning a beauty contest, I find that great too and we should support them,” Schiappa said.</p>

<p>The interview includes various innuendo-laden questions like “is politics an aphrodisiac?”&nbsp;and talks about the minister's past as an erotic novelist and author who wrote on issues like the female orgasm.</p>

<p>Some colleagues of the minister were left aghast by the interview's timing which came when France is going through a major political crisis and battling multiple strikes and violent protests over the increase in the retirement age.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had called Schiappa to inform her that the unauthorised shoot was “not at all appropriate”, meanwhile, Equalities Minister Isabelle Rome broke the magazine's cover to criticise the initiative.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: French minister under fire for posing for playboy magazine</strong></p>

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<p>“I wonder to myself: why would you choose Playboy to try to advance the cause of women when this magazine is a concentration of sexist stereotypes? It’s all about the culture of women as objects,” she said while speaking to the Figaro newspaper.</p>

<p>A former magistrate, Rome said that “when you are a minister, you have responsibilities” as recalled how Playboy’s founder Hugh Hefner had faced accusations of sexual assault.</p>

<p>Schiappa has said that she does not repent attracting the limelight in her six-year political career. “It’s an advantage, on the contrary. Because people say that politics has become colourless, that everyone resembles one another … I don’t resemble anyone else,” she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to.

French minister and feminist Marlene Schiappa, who recently posed for Playboy, sparking controversy, said to the magazine she believed that women have the right to pose nude if they want to. Schiappa, who is currently the country's minister for the social economy and associations, was featured in Playboy's French edition this month which will hit shelves on Thursday, although her photos were already leaked in the French media. On Wednesday, the minister received fresh criticism from her cabinet colleagues for her stunt. In the photographs which will accompany the 12-page long interview, the minister strikes various poses in revealing outfits of blue, red and white colour of the French tricolour. ALSO READ | French minister faces flak for appearing on Playboy cover amidst mass agitation “If some (women) want to pose in a men’s magazine and enjoy it, I think that we shouldn’t blame them,” said Schiappa, while speaking to the magazine. The minister called Pamela Anderson her inspiration after the US glamour model said that shooting for Playboy had been “an act of emancipation”. “Like the Miss France. If they enjoy winning a beauty contest, I find that great too and we should support them,” Schiappa said. The interview includes various innuendo-laden questions like “is politics an aphrodisiac?” and talks about the minister's past as an erotic novelist and author who wrote on issues like the female orgasm. Some colleagues of the minister were left aghast by the interview's timing which came when France is going through a major political crisis and battling multiple strikes and violent protests over the increase in the retirement age. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had called Schiappa to inform her that the unauthorised shoot was “not at all appropriate”, meanwhile, Equalities Minister Isabelle Rome broke the magazine's cover to criticise the initiative. WATCH | Gravitas: French minister under fire for posing for playboy magazine “I wonder to myself: why would you choose Playboy to try to advance the cause of women when this magazine is a concentration of sexist stereotypes? It’s all about the culture of women as objects,” she said while speaking to the Figaro newspaper. A former magistrate, Rome said that “when you are a minister, you have responsibilities” as recalled how Playboy’s founder Hugh Hefner had faced accusations of sexual assault. Schiappa has said that she does not repent attracting the limelight in her six-year political career. “It’s an advantage, on the contrary. Because people say that politics has become colourless, that everyone resembles one another … I don’t resemble anyone else,” she said. (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

Women have right to pose nude, says French minister after Playboy shoot controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron plans to visit China in early April in hopes of encouraging Beijing to pressure Russia into ending the war in Ukraine. Watch the video to know more.

French President Emmanuel Macron to visit China in April on mission to help end Ukraine war

<p>Ukraine has accused privately-owned French retailer, Auchan, for becoming a "full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression" in Ukraine. He criticized the retailer for supplying goods to the Russian army and helping Moscow in its ongoing onslaught on Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet Friday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote, "Last year, I urged the world to boycott Auchan for failing to withdraw from Russia and stop funding war crimes. However, the reality seems to be far worse: Auchan has evolved into a full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression. I intend to discuss this with my French counterpart."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-japan-aborts-launch-of-flagship-h3-rocket-moments-before-lift-off-563173">Japan aborts launch of flagship H3 rocket moments before lift off</a></p>

<p>The entire controversy started last year, after a joint report by French newspaper Le Monde and investigative websites The Insider and Bellingcat, revealed that Auchan's branch in Russia supplied the Russian army with products worth 2 million rubles ($27,000). However, the report fell short of revealing as to who gave them the information. They attributed the report to anonymous sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, Auchan last year said it has no plans to exit its business from Russia, even as many other western companies left the Russian market after the war started in Eastern Europe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-ukraine-is-set-to-mark-one-year-war-anniversary-dutch-pm-visits-kyiv-563143">As Ukraine is set to mark one-year war anniversary, Dutch PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv</a></p>

<p>Auchan was "very surprised" over the report and in its defence said, "We do not voluntarily and actively fund or participate in any fundraising for Russian forces."&nbsp;Auchan's chief executive Yves Claude in an earlier interview gave his reasons for not pulling out its business from Russia. He said that if Auchan exits Russia it would lead to losing assets or legal issues for its managers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to the argument, Kuleba had said, "Apparently, job losses in Russia are more important than the loss of life in Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last year, I urged the world to boycott Auchan for failing to withdraw from Russia and stop funding war crimes. However, the reality seems to be far worse: Auchan has evolved into a full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression. I intend to discuss this with my French counterpart. <a href="https://t.co/5Gp607HKPs">https://t.co/5Gp607HKPs</a></p>
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1626552398977069058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Auchan's Ukraine branch in a comment to AFP news agency expressed shock over the reports and said, "Auchan Ukraine has provided assistance to Ukrainians worth over 60 million hryvnias ($1.6 million)."&nbsp;In the latest development, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will meet with Kuleba on 21 February.&nbsp;</p>

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Ukraine has accused privately-owned French retailer, Auchan, for becoming a "full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression" in Ukraine. He criticized the retailer for supplying goods to the Russian army and helping Moscow in its ongoing onslaught on Kyiv.

Ukraine has accused privately-owned French retailer, Auchan, for becoming a "full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression" in Ukraine. He criticized the retailer for supplying goods to the Russian army and helping Moscow in its ongoing onslaught on Kyiv. In a tweet Friday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote, "Last year, I urged the world to boycott Auchan for failing to withdraw from Russia and stop funding war crimes. However, the reality seems to be far worse: Auchan has evolved into a full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression. I intend to discuss this with my French counterpart." Watch | Japan aborts launch of flagship H3 rocket moments before lift off The entire controversy started last year, after a joint report by French newspaper Le Monde and investigative websites The Insider and Bellingcat, revealed that Auchan's branch in Russia supplied the Russian army with products worth 2 million rubles ($27,000). However, the report fell short of revealing as to who gave them the information. They attributed the report to anonymous sources. Further, Auchan last year said it has no plans to exit its business from Russia, even as many other western companies left the Russian market after the war started in Eastern Europe. Also Read | As Ukraine is set to mark one-year war anniversary, Dutch PM meets Zelensky in Kyiv Auchan was "very surprised" over the report and in its defence said, "We do not voluntarily and actively fund or participate in any fundraising for Russian forces." Auchan's chief executive Yves Claude in an earlier interview gave his reasons for not pulling out its business from Russia. He said that if Auchan exits Russia it would lead to losing assets or legal issues for its managers. Reacting to the argument, Kuleba had said, "Apparently, job losses in Russia are more important than the loss of life in Ukraine." Last year, I urged the world to boycott Auchan for failing to withdraw from Russia and stop funding war crimes. However, the reality seems to be far worse: Auchan has evolved into a full-fledged weapon of Russian aggression. I intend to discuss this with my French counterpart. https://t.co/5Gp607HKPs — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) February 17, 2023 × Watch | Tom Blundell leads New Zealand fightback in England first Test Auchan's Ukraine branch in a comment to AFP news agency expressed shock over the reports and said, "Auchan Ukraine has provided assistance to Ukrainians worth over 60 million hryvnias ($1.6 million)." In the latest development, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will meet with Kuleba on 21 February. 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.

Ukraine accuses French retailer Auchan for 'funding war crimes' after these revelations

Nearly four in ten French business leaders admit to working intense, long hours without regular breaks, well above the 25% global average, a survey has found.

World's biggest workaholics, French business leaders work intensely

The findings of a survey from Health Insurer Bupa Global say it is the French executives who binge work the most. Nearly 40% of French executives and leaders surveyed recently admitted to working intense, long hours without taking regular breaks. Watch this to know more.

French executives are the world's worst workaholics

<p>Who comes to mind when you think about intense workers with long hours without regular breaks? The most likely image would be Japanese, Chinese, Indians or Americans. But, the findings of a survey from Health Insurer Bupa Global might surprise you.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The survey found&nbsp;that&nbsp;executives in France binge-work the most. Nearly 40 per cent of French executives and leaders who participated in the recent poll admitted to working intense, long hours without taking regular breaks which is also above the 25 per cent global average and against the country’s workplace policies and lifestyle.</p>

<p>The latest poll also shows a different working culture emerges in the nation known for its wine, cheese and fine dining. It also found that long working hours make French workers the most anxious about their work performance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/french-man-sues-employer-for-boring-job-gets-45000-severance-package-444376">French man sues employer for 'boring' job, gets $45,000 severance package</a></strong></p>

<p>The French have the most anxiety about their organisations' ability to weather the current economic instability, along with a reluctance to work remotely compared to their global peers. The survey also says binge working was more common among executives who went into the office full-time than those who worked remotely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This also&nbsp;stands in contrast to Paris’&nbsp;laws. Indeed, to facilitate a work-life balance, France became the first European nation to apply a law regarding the ‘Right to Disconnect’ in 2017, which requires&nbsp;organisations to prohibit emails, calls or other workplace encroachments after certain hours.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-belgian-civil-servants-get-the-right-to-disconnect-449704">Gravitas: Belgian civil servants get the right to disconnect</a></strong></p>

<p>“This combination of external economic pressures and tendency to take responsibilities upon themselves could contribute to French executives binge working the most,” Anthony Cabrelli, Managing Director of Bupa Global, told Bloomberg.</p>

<p>Bupa Global serves expatriates, executives and other high-net-worth individuals. The survey considered the views of 2,439 high-net-worth individuals across eight regions. Meanwhile, most blue-collar and service workers only work 35 hours per week, and August is largely for summer vacations.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Who comes to mind when you think about intense workers with long hours without regular breaks? The most likely image would be Japanese, Chinese, Indians or Americans.

Who comes to mind when you think about intense workers with long hours without regular breaks? The most likely image would be Japanese, Chinese, Indians or Americans. But, the findings of a survey from Health Insurer Bupa Global might surprise you. The survey found that executives in France binge-work the most. Nearly 40 per cent of French executives and leaders who participated in the recent poll admitted to working intense, long hours without taking regular breaks which is also above the 25 per cent global average and against the country’s workplace policies and lifestyle. The latest poll also shows a different working culture emerges in the nation known for its wine, cheese and fine dining. It also found that long working hours make French workers the most anxious about their work performance. ALSO READ | French man sues employer for 'boring' job, gets $45,000 severance package The French have the most anxiety about their organisations' ability to weather the current economic instability, along with a reluctance to work remotely compared to their global peers. The survey also says binge working was more common among executives who went into the office full-time than those who worked remotely. This also stands in contrast to Paris’ laws. Indeed, to facilitate a work-life balance, France became the first European nation to apply a law regarding the ‘Right to Disconnect’ in 2017, which requires organisations to prohibit emails, calls or other workplace encroachments after certain hours. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Belgian civil servants get the right to disconnect “This combination of external economic pressures and tendency to take responsibilities upon themselves could contribute to French executives binge working the most,” Anthony Cabrelli, Managing Director of Bupa Global, told Bloomberg. Bupa Global serves expatriates, executives and other high-net-worth individuals. The survey considered the views of 2,439 high-net-worth individuals across eight regions. Meanwhile, most blue-collar and service workers only work 35 hours per week, and August is largely for summer vacations. 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.

Who are the world’s biggest workaholics?

<p>More than a million people, including 80,000 in Paris, took&nbsp;to the streets on Thursday across France, according to the country's Interior Ministry. These massive strikes caused delays to trains, flights, schools, and workplaces. People are taking on the streets to demonstrate against the government's plans to raise the retirement age for the majority of workers. There, small groups of protesters tossed bottles, rocks, and fireworks at riot police. Eight of the largest unions participated in the strike against the government of President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms. The unions have called for another day of protest against legislation for 31 January.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why are French labour&nbsp;unions calling nationwide&nbsp;strikes?</strong></h2>

<p>Numerous transportation services were impacted by protests in major French cities as Paris, Nantes, Marseille, Toulouse and Nice. Tourists couldn't visit the Eiffel Tower as it remained closed amid the protests. French President Emmanuel Macron's new pension legislation will require French citizens to work until 64, from 62 currently, to qualify for a full state pension. However, the revisions have infuriated workers at a time when living expenses are rising.</p>

<h2><strong>How French government has responded to these&nbsp;protests?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>French government's claimed that pension reforms are required to address a pension funding deficit. French government spokesperson Olivier Veran in a comment to reporters said that France have the most protective, the most developed system in Europe (for pensions). Veran also added that even after the reforms, people will retire in France better off and earlier than in almost all eurozone countries.</p>

<h2><strong>Who all are protesting?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from trade unions, teachers and transport workers were among those who did not report for work. More than 40% of primary school teachers and more than one third of high school teachers went on strike, according to France’s education ministry. Nurses and ambulance drivers in the United Kingdom are also striking on Thursday over pay and working conditions. Moreover, many refinery workers also walked out which interrupted oil products deliveries.</p>

<h2><strong>A controversial topic, earlier attempts were thwarted too&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In France, pension reforms have long been a contentious topic. In 1995, mass protests put an end to reform attempts, and subsequent administrations encountered fierce opposition to the reforms that were passed in 2004, 2008, and 2010. Macron's prior attempt to reform France's pension system was faced with widespread strikes in 2019. However, the strikes were called off because of the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>


More than a million people, including 80,000 in Paris, took to the streets on Thursday across France, according to the country's Interior Ministry. These massive strikes caused delays to trains, flights, schools, and workplaces.

More than a million people, including 80,000 in Paris, took to the streets on Thursday across France, according to the country's Interior Ministry. These massive strikes caused delays to trains, flights, schools, and workplaces. People are taking on the streets to demonstrate against the government's plans to raise the retirement age for the majority of workers. There, small groups of protesters tossed bottles, rocks, and fireworks at riot police. Eight of the largest unions participated in the strike against the government of President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms. The unions have called for another day of protest against legislation for 31 January. Why are French labour unions calling nationwide strikes? Numerous transportation services were impacted by protests in major French cities as Paris, Nantes, Marseille, Toulouse and Nice. Tourists couldn't visit the Eiffel Tower as it remained closed amid the protests. French President Emmanuel Macron's new pension legislation will require French citizens to work until 64, from 62 currently, to qualify for a full state pension. However, the revisions have infuriated workers at a time when living expenses are rising. How French government has responded to these protests? French government's claimed that pension reforms are required to address a pension funding deficit. French government spokesperson Olivier Veran in a comment to reporters said that France have the most protective, the most developed system in Europe (for pensions). Veran also added that even after the reforms, people will retire in France better off and earlier than in almost all eurozone countries. Who all are protesting? Apart from trade unions, teachers and transport workers were among those who did not report for work. More than 40% of primary school teachers and more than one third of high school teachers went on strike, according to France’s education ministry. Nurses and ambulance drivers in the United Kingdom are also striking on Thursday over pay and working conditions. Moreover, many refinery workers also walked out which interrupted oil products deliveries. A controversial topic, earlier attempts were thwarted too In France, pension reforms have long been a contentious topic. In 1995, mass protests put an end to reform attempts, and subsequent administrations encountered fierce opposition to the reforms that were passed in 2004, 2008, and 2010. Macron's prior attempt to reform France's pension system was faced with widespread strikes in 2019. However, the strikes were called off because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

EXPLAINED: Why are French labour unions holding nationwide strikes over Macron's pension reforms?

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;in&nbsp;his address&nbsp;on Saturday&nbsp;announced that the upcoming year will witness the much-delayed and widely unpopular overhaul of the country’s pension system. This comes after his initial proposal had led to widespread protests as the move would force&nbsp;people to work longer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” said Macron. He added, “We have to work more.”&nbsp;During the televised speech, the French president also said that the reform will be implemented by the end of summer, the details for which,&nbsp;will likely be revealed by January 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-government-seeks-to-end-unrest-by-resuming-pension-talks-272609">France: Government seeks to end unrest by resuming pension talks</a></strong></p>

<p>Notably, a key aspect of the proposed reform&nbsp;that has provoked outrage, is raising the minimum age to collect government benefits from 62 years to 65. Meanwhile, major worker groups and student groups have threatened to strike and protest. The French president who has always been in favour of raising the age of retirement has met with fierce criticism and resistance from unions in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-march-against-pension-reform-macron-govt-temporarily-withdraws-pivotal-age-limit-273790">France: March against pension reform, Macron govt temporarily withdraws pivotal age limit</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2017, when he first came into power, fixing France’s complicated pension reform was one of the most important election promises Macron had made. However, the initial proposal was met with weeks of protests and transport strikes and was later put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reportedly, the French president’s idea of pension reform is widely unpopular with the public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-vows-to-raise-retirement-age-to-65-up-from-62-528710">French president vows to raise retirement age to 65, up from 62</a></strong></p>

<p>During his address, Macron also urged people to conserve energy, as one of the ways that the country can avoid power cuts, as almost all European countries continue to face the fallout of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis. Furthermore, France has also reportedly brought back nuclear reactors into service after breaks for maintenance to mitigate the power shortages&nbsp;and make it through the winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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French President Emmanuel Macron in his address on Saturday announced that the upcoming year will witness the much-delayed and widely unpopular overhaul of the country’s pension system.

French President Emmanuel Macron in his address on Saturday announced that the upcoming year will witness the much-delayed and widely unpopular overhaul of the country’s pension system. This comes after his initial proposal had led to widespread protests as the move would force people to work longer. “This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” said Macron. He added, “We have to work more.” During the televised speech, the French president also said that the reform will be implemented by the end of summer, the details for which, will likely be revealed by January 10. ALSO READ | France: Government seeks to end unrest by resuming pension talks Notably, a key aspect of the proposed reform that has provoked outrage, is raising the minimum age to collect government benefits from 62 years to 65. Meanwhile, major worker groups and student groups have threatened to strike and protest. The French president who has always been in favour of raising the age of retirement has met with fierce criticism and resistance from unions in the past. ALSO WATCH | France: March against pension reform, Macron govt temporarily withdraws pivotal age limit In 2017, when he first came into power, fixing France’s complicated pension reform was one of the most important election promises Macron had made. However, the initial proposal was met with weeks of protests and transport strikes and was later put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reportedly, the French president’s idea of pension reform is widely unpopular with the public. ALSO READ | French president vows to raise retirement age to 65, up from 62 During his address, Macron also urged people to conserve energy, as one of the ways that the country can avoid power cuts, as almost all European countries continue to face the fallout of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis. Furthermore, France has also reportedly brought back nuclear reactors into service after breaks for maintenance to mitigate the power shortages and make it through the winter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French President Macron says pension system reform will be implemented in 2023

<p>Eateries and fast-food chains in France are racing to modify their practices as the deadline to do away with the use of disposable cutlery draws nearer. From January 1, 2023, all the eateries will have to use reusable cutlery in what French environmental organisations are calling a 'paradigm shift' for the sector.&nbsp;New law means that eatables like burgers and sandwiches cannot be served in a box. They can, however, be wrapped in paper.<br />
<br />
Other foods like chips, nuggets, pizzas, cakes, ice-creams and drinks will have to be served with reusable cutlery which will have to be washed at 60 degrees Celsius like in normal restaurants.</p>

<p>There are about 30,000 fast-food outlets in France. These serve roughly 6 billion meals a year. This generates 180,000 tonnes of waste. As per reports, 55 per cent of this waste is generated by people eating in.</p>

<p>“We’re extremely happy that this is finally coming into force,” said Alice Elfassi, head of legal affairs for the NGO Zero Waste France.</p>

<p>“Fast food is a sector that produces a lot of waste. Although single-use plastic had already been banned, it had been replaced by large amounts of throwaway products like cardboard, wood, bamboo, which we consider an unacceptable waste of resources,”&nbsp;Elfassi was quoted as saying by The Guardian.</p>

<p>“Most fast-food restaurants won’t switch to classic, long-wearing glass or china that lasts years, they will opt for hard plastic and we have concerns about its durability – will it withstand hundreds of washes or will it be thrown out after only a few? We’ll be vigilant on that,” she added.</p>

<p>The new rules say that any restaurant with more than 20 seats will have to serve food in reusable, washable plates cups and cutlery.</p>

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Eateries and fast-food chains in France are racing to modify their practices as the deadline to do away with the use of disposable cutlery draws nearer. From January 1, 2023, all the eateries will have to use reusable cutlery in what French environmental organisations are calling a 'paradigm shift' for the sector.

Eateries and fast-food chains in France are racing to modify their practices as the deadline to do away with the use of disposable cutlery draws nearer. From January 1, 2023, all the eateries will have to use reusable cutlery in what French environmental organisations are calling a 'paradigm shift' for the sector. New law means that eatables like burgers and sandwiches cannot be served in a box. They can, however, be wrapped in paper. Other foods like chips, nuggets, pizzas, cakes, ice-creams and drinks will have to be served with reusable cutlery which will have to be washed at 60 degrees Celsius like in normal restaurants. There are about 30,000 fast-food outlets in France. These serve roughly 6 billion meals a year. This generates 180,000 tonnes of waste. As per reports, 55 per cent of this waste is generated by people eating in. “We’re extremely happy that this is finally coming into force,” said Alice Elfassi, head of legal affairs for the NGO Zero Waste France. “Fast food is a sector that produces a lot of waste. Although single-use plastic had already been banned, it had been replaced by large amounts of throwaway products like cardboard, wood, bamboo, which we consider an unacceptable waste of resources,” Elfassi was quoted as saying by The Guardian. “Most fast-food restaurants won’t switch to classic, long-wearing glass or china that lasts years, they will opt for hard plastic and we have concerns about its durability – will it withstand hundreds of washes or will it be thrown out after only a few? We’ll be vigilant on that,” she added. The new rules say that any restaurant with more than 20 seats will have to serve food in reusable, washable plates cups and cutlery. 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 ×

Law making French restaurants dump single-use cutlery to be enforced from new year

<p>It was a Twitter talk over croissant !&nbsp;A croissant picture post by Anand Mahindra was an ice breaker between the Indian billionaire and Twitterati. Apparently, Anand Mahindra on Twitter shared the pic of croissant, a flaky pastry made with French yeast-leavened laminated dough. The picture was from some India eatery where the outlet incorrectly spelt the 'Croissant' as "Crocin." Poking fun at it and sharing his French son-in-law's love for Croissant, Mahindra writes on Twitter, "Well, at least my French son-in-law agrees that the Croissant is an effective remedy for all sorts of aches and pains….And we Indians have mastered abbreviated software programming language.. So why not?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well, at least my French son-in-law agrees that the Croissant is an effective remedy for all sorts of aches and pains….And we Indians have mastered abbreviated software programming language.. So why not? <a href="https://t.co/2hJTYaWDPS">pic.twitter.com/2hJTYaWDPS</a></p>
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1596146336113516545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>After the post by Anand Mahindra, Twitterati came up with an interesting question to pose to the business tycoon. A Twitter user asked, “None of my business But why not an Indian son-in-law?” Anand Mahindra tackled the question with sheer grace. He wrote, “Because that’s none of my business either. My daughters, on their own, chose their life partners. And I’m proud of them for that."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Because that’s none of my business either. My daughters, on their own, chose their life partners. And I’m proud of them for that. <a href="https://t.co/QfVHsRuXwM">https://t.co/QfVHsRuXwM</a></p>
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1596547394896023552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon after, this Twitter saga gained a lot of traction where business tycoon Anand Mahindra's reply became the talk of the town. However, many other Twitter users did not take the asked question in good heart. One of the Twitter users asked, “Sometimes I wonder how people ask such personal questions to people whom they don’t know at all just because it’s social media!" “Never indulge in any one's personal/family matters,” another Twitter user said. “Well said @anandmahindra. It shouldn’t be anyone’s business,” another user asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It was a Twitter talk over croissant ! A croissant picture post by Anand Mahindra was an ice breaker between the Indian billionaire and Twitterati. Apparently, Anand Mahindra on Twitter shared the pic of croissant, a flaky pastry made with French yeast-leavened laminated dough.

It was a Twitter talk over croissant ! A croissant picture post by Anand Mahindra was an ice breaker between the Indian billionaire and Twitterati. Apparently, Anand Mahindra on Twitter shared the pic of croissant, a flaky pastry made with French yeast-leavened laminated dough. The picture was from some India eatery where the outlet incorrectly spelt the 'Croissant' as "Crocin." Poking fun at it and sharing his French son-in-law's love for Croissant, Mahindra writes on Twitter, "Well, at least my French son-in-law agrees that the Croissant is an effective remedy for all sorts of aches and pains….And we Indians have mastered abbreviated software programming language.. So why not?" Well, at least my French son-in-law agrees that the Croissant is an effective remedy for all sorts of aches and pains….And we Indians have mastered abbreviated software programming language.. So why not? pic.twitter.com/2hJTYaWDPS — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) November 25, 2022 × After the post by Anand Mahindra, Twitterati came up with an interesting question to pose to the business tycoon. A Twitter user asked, “None of my business But why not an Indian son-in-law?” Anand Mahindra tackled the question with sheer grace. He wrote, “Because that’s none of my business either. My daughters, on their own, chose their life partners. And I’m proud of them for that." Because that’s none of my business either. My daughters, on their own, chose their life partners. And I’m proud of them for that. https://t.co/QfVHsRuXwM — anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) November 26, 2022 × Soon after, this Twitter saga gained a lot of traction where business tycoon Anand Mahindra's reply became the talk of the town. However, many other Twitter users did not take the asked question in good heart. One of the Twitter users asked, “Sometimes I wonder how people ask such personal questions to people whom they don’t know at all just because it’s social media!" “Never indulge in any one's personal/family matters,” another Twitter user said. “Well said @anandmahindra. It shouldn’t be anyone’s business,” another user asked.

Croissant talks: See how Indian billionaire Anand Mahindra reacts as Twitter asks ‘why not Indian son-in-law’

Lawmakers in the French parliament have moved a step closer to becoming the first country in the world to enshrine abortion as a constitutional right. Watch full video to know more.

Abortion a constitution right in France soon?

UK and France signed an agreement worth $74 million to ramp up efforts to stop illegal migrants from making perilous journeys across the English Channel

UK and France sign deal on migrant crossings

<p>French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption.</p>

<p>"If we act collectively then we can overcome the risk of shortages, but unless everyone takes part and if all the bad-case scenarios come together then we could be forced to impose reductions on consumers," she told the Medef business group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If we end up with rationing, companies will be the most affected and unfortunately we need to be prepared for it," she continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The energy trouble for Europe has grown due to Ukraine war and Russia's subsequent leveraging of its position as major energy supplier to Europe.</p>

<p>The French PM said the governemnt was already making contingency plans. These plans, she said, included 'quota trading system'. This system would enable companies to sell power quotas.</p>

<p>The government was also preparing measures to support companies.</p>

<p>"Every company needs to mobilise and act. I call on everyone to establish their own energy-saving plans in September," she said, while stressing that the crisis caused by record-high energy prices would help the transition away from fossil fuels.</p>

<p>"The months ahead are just a step in the bigger transition that we need to make," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>France is more sheltered than many European countries from the surge in gas prices caused by Russia's decision to reduce its exports to Europe after its invasion of Ukraine in February.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption.

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne on Monday (August 29) warned of energy rationing in the winter. She urged company bosses to take steps to reduce energy consumption. "If we act collectively then we can overcome the risk of shortages, but unless everyone takes part and if all the bad-case scenarios come together then we could be forced to impose reductions on consumers," she told the Medef business group. "If we end up with rationing, companies will be the most affected and unfortunately we need to be prepared for it," she continued. The energy trouble for Europe has grown due to Ukraine war and Russia's subsequent leveraging of its position as major energy supplier to Europe. The French PM said the governemnt was already making contingency plans. These plans, she said, included 'quota trading system'. This system would enable companies to sell power quotas. The government was also preparing measures to support companies. "Every company needs to mobilise and act. I call on everyone to establish their own energy-saving plans in September," she said, while stressing that the crisis caused by record-high energy prices would help the transition away from fossil fuels. "The months ahead are just a step in the bigger transition that we need to make," she said. France is more sheltered than many European countries from the surge in gas prices caused by Russia's decision to reduce its exports to Europe after its invasion of Ukraine in February. (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 ×

French PM warns of energy 'rationing' in the winter

<p>France PM Elisabeth Borne on Monday (July 11) survive no-confidence vote in the parliament. The motion was brought against her by alliance of left-wing opponents. Official count of votes revealed that 146 voted in support of the motion. For the government to fall, the motion needed an absolute majority of 289 votes. Borne was widely expected to comfortably survive no-confidence motion.</p>

<p>The no-confidence motion was meant to be a show of intent by the Nupes alliance. It is the largest bloc in opposition to Emmanuel Macron's centrist 'Ensemble!' grouping.</p>

<p>But as the Nupes alliance is made up of 151 MPs, it meant that five of them chose not to vote the motion of no-confidence, something that could be interpreted as a positive sign by Borne and her government.</p>

<p>"We should be debating the issues the French are facing, this non-confidence vote is unfair", the prime minister told the parliament just before the vote.</p>

<p>"This non-confidence vote is just political tactics (...)Let's switch together to a culture of compromise," she added.</p>

<p>After enjoying a comfortable majority in the lower house during his first mandate, newly-reelected Macron lost his absolute majority in parliament in June's legislative elections and can no longer count on the chamber to rubber-stamp his reform agenda.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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France PM Elisabeth Borne on Monday (July 11) survive no-confidence vote in the parliament. The motion was brought against her by alliance of left-wing opponents.

France PM Elisabeth Borne on Monday (July 11) survive no-confidence vote in the parliament. The motion was brought against her by alliance of left-wing opponents. Official count of votes revealed that 146 voted in support of the motion. For the government to fall, the motion needed an absolute majority of 289 votes. Borne was widely expected to comfortably survive no-confidence motion. The no-confidence motion was meant to be a show of intent by the Nupes alliance. It is the largest bloc in opposition to Emmanuel Macron's centrist 'Ensemble!' grouping. But as the Nupes alliance is made up of 151 MPs, it meant that five of them chose not to vote the motion of no-confidence, something that could be interpreted as a positive sign by Borne and her government. "We should be debating the issues the French are facing, this non-confidence vote is unfair", the prime minister told the parliament just before the vote. "This non-confidence vote is just political tactics (...)Let's switch together to a culture of compromise," she added. After enjoying a comfortable majority in the lower house during his first mandate, newly-reelected Macron lost his absolute majority in parliament in June's legislative elections and can no longer count on the chamber to rubber-stamp his reform agenda. (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 ×

French PM Elisabeth Borne survives no-confidence vote

<p>22 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have French as their official language, with a population of 300 million people. Francophone countries are predominantly located in central and western Africa. According to Victor Lopes an economist from Standard Charter Bank, Francophone Africa constitutes 15 per cent&nbsp;of Africa’s GDP and receives approximately 20 per cent&nbsp;of foreign investments that are directed to Africa. Despite all this, South African companies are reluctant to do business in this region. However, this region is too dynamic to be ignored.</p>

<p>The World Bank predicted, that, by 2021, 62.5 per cent&nbsp;of Africa’s fastest growing economies will be in Francophone Africa. Currently, it boasts five out of the ten fastest-growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, namely, Côte d’Ivoire 7 per cent, Senegal 6.7 per cent, Benin 6.3 per cent, Burkina Faso 6&nbsp;per cent,&nbsp;and Guinea 5.9 per cent. In the South African context, there is huge potential for mining and extraction of natural resources. It is an emerging mining region with countries such as Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Mali being earmarked as countries that will be leading the mining growth. The region is endowed with vast natural resources: Côte d'Ivoire is the leading producer of cocoa, Mali is the second largest producer of Shea nuts, DRC has the world's largest reserves of coltan and cobalt, and several countries in the region are trying to revitalize their coffee, palm oil and cotton production.</p>

<p>Some businesses are deterred from doing business in Francophone countries because they believe that the political volatility in the region will hinder their businesses. These issues have been taken seriously and addressed, in order to attract business in their countries. According to the 2018 World Bank's annual Ease of Doing Business report assesses that: French-speaking countries achieved especially notable results. The report recognized Togo and Côte d'Ivoire as among "the 10 economies improving the most across three or more areas measured by Ease of Doing Business in 2017/18. There are two major factors that make doing business in Francophone Africa easier. Firstly, the implementation of the Organization for Harmonization of Business Law in Africa (OHADA). OHADA is a legal system that has created homogeneousness amongst member states, which has subsequently created accountability and transparency. Secondly, there is a single currency the West and Central African CFA, these currencies are both pegged to the Euro and they offer currency stability.</p>

<p>The misconception that France still has a huge influence and is their main trade partner is still prevalent. There are still strong ties to France but, they are diminishing, because, the region is globalizing like other regions of the world. Statistics from UN Comtrade reveal that the French share of exports to Francophone Africa has declined steadily from 13.6&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the total in 2010 to just 9.4&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;by 2017.&nbsp;Moreover, many companies are also increasingly including English as a business language.</p>

<p>However, much of Francophone Africa is largely underdeveloped and lacks good infrastructure. It is problematic to get the resources to market, without the proper infrastructure to process or transport them. Amidst these challenges are opportunities for companies to invest in the infrastructure sector in the region and these opportunities in this region will trickle down to all sectors.</p>

<p>Additionally, the return of African Development Bank (AfDB) to Abidjan from Tunis was an illustration of confidence in the country and the region. The presence of the AfDB has attracted other funding agencies to have a major presence in the region. With the aforementioned information, it is vital for businesses to explore this overlooked economic jewel.</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>

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22 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have French as their official language, with a population of 300 million people. Francophone countries are predominantly located in central and western Africa.

22 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have French as their official language, with a population of 300 million people. Francophone countries are predominantly located in central and western Africa. According to Victor Lopes an economist from Standard Charter Bank, Francophone Africa constitutes 15 per cent of Africa’s GDP and receives approximately 20 per cent of foreign investments that are directed to Africa. Despite all this, South African companies are reluctant to do business in this region. However, this region is too dynamic to be ignored. The World Bank predicted, that, by 2021, 62.5 per cent of Africa’s fastest growing economies will be in Francophone Africa. Currently, it boasts five out of the ten fastest-growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, namely, Côte d’Ivoire 7 per cent, Senegal 6.7 per cent, Benin 6.3 per cent, Burkina Faso 6 per cent, and Guinea 5.9 per cent. In the South African context, there is huge potential for mining and extraction of natural resources. It is an emerging mining region with countries such as Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Mali being earmarked as countries that will be leading the mining growth. The region is endowed with vast natural resources: Côte d'Ivoire is the leading producer of cocoa, Mali is the second largest producer of Shea nuts, DRC has the world's largest reserves of coltan and cobalt, and several countries in the region are trying to revitalize their coffee, palm oil and cotton production. Some businesses are deterred from doing business in Francophone countries because they believe that the political volatility in the region will hinder their businesses. These issues have been taken seriously and addressed, in order to attract business in their countries. According to the 2018 World Bank's annual Ease of Doing Business report assesses that: French-speaking countries achieved especially notable results. The report recognized Togo and Côte d'Ivoire as among "the 10 economies improving the most across three or more areas measured by Ease of Doing Business in 2017/18. There are two major factors that make doing business in Francophone Africa easier. Firstly, the implementation of the Organization for Harmonization of Business Law in Africa (OHADA). OHADA is a legal system that has created homogeneousness amongst member states, which has subsequently created accountability and transparency. Secondly, there is a single currency the West and Central African CFA, these currencies are both pegged to the Euro and they offer currency stability. The misconception that France still has a huge influence and is their main trade partner is still prevalent. There are still strong ties to France but, they are diminishing, because, the region is globalizing like other regions of the world. Statistics from UN Comtrade reveal that the French share of exports to Francophone Africa has declined steadily from 13.6 per cent of the total in 2010 to just 9.4 per cent by 2017. Moreover, many companies are also increasingly including English as a business language. However, much of Francophone Africa is largely underdeveloped and lacks good infrastructure. It is problematic to get the resources to market, without the proper infrastructure to process or transport them. Amidst these challenges are opportunities for companies to invest in the infrastructure sector in the region and these opportunities in this region will trickle down to all sectors. Additionally, the return of African Development Bank (AfDB) to Abidjan from Tunis was an illustration of confidence in the country and the region. The presence of the AfDB has attracted other funding agencies to have a major presence in the region. With the aforementioned information, it is vital for businesses to explore this overlooked economic jewel. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Francophone Africa: The dynamic overlooked African economic jewel

<p>Contemporary French label Officine Generale took to a grand, column-lined courtyard in the historic Marais district of Paris for its latest collection of classic tailored designs for men and women, sending crisp poplin shirts and relaxed, pleated trousers with matching blazers down a cobblestone runway.<br />
<br />
Models marched in a straight line as a breeze tugged at the looser styles, blowing the tails of silk scarves into the air and adding drama to the evening show.<br />
<br />
"I think when you put on a pair of white jeans with a black sweater and pair of sandals, you might perhaps be closer to the French dream than some of the extravagance we see," designer Pierre Maheo told Reuters, describing his approach to fashion. "You can`t just have things that are all over the place on the podium."<br />
<br />
Founded by Maheo a decade ago, the label has been quietly building up a loyal following and has recently joined a wave of French brands opening stores in the United States, including Ami, which held a show at the foot of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica earlier this week.<br />
<br />
In contrast with the celebrity-packed shows from blockbuster labels like Louis Vuitton — which flew in a marching band from Florida to perform at the Louvre – Officine Generale is one of the regulars on the Paris Fashion Week calendar known for more intimate crowds.<br />
<br />
Menswear shows run through June 26 in Paris, with Celine closing the events.</p>


Contemporary French label Officine Generale took to a grand, column-lined courtyard in the historic Marais district of Paris for its latest collection of classic tailored designs for men and women, sending crisp poplin shirts and relaxed, pleated trousers with matching blazers down a cobblestone runway.

Contemporary French label Officine Generale took to a grand, column-lined courtyard in the historic Marais district of Paris for its latest collection of classic tailored designs for men and women, sending crisp poplin shirts and relaxed, pleated trousers with matching blazers down a cobblestone runway. Models marched in a straight line as a breeze tugged at the looser styles, blowing the tails of silk scarves into the air and adding drama to the evening show. "I think when you put on a pair of white jeans with a black sweater and pair of sandals, you might perhaps be closer to the French dream than some of the extravagance we see," designer Pierre Maheo told Reuters, describing his approach to fashion. "You can`t just have things that are all over the place on the podium." Founded by Maheo a decade ago, the label has been quietly building up a loyal following and has recently joined a wave of French brands opening stores in the United States, including Ami, which held a show at the foot of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica earlier this week. In contrast with the celebrity-packed shows from blockbuster labels like Louis Vuitton — which flew in a marching band from Florida to perform at the Louvre – Officine Generale is one of the regulars on the Paris Fashion Week calendar known for more intimate crowds. Menswear shows run through June 26 in Paris, with Celine closing the events.

Paris Fashion Week serves up quintessential French chic with Officine Generale show

<p>After converting to Judaism and undertaking three intensive years of Jewish study, 40-year-old former journalist Eliora Peretz recently became one of the few women in Israel to receive an Orthodox rabbinical ordination. She was born in France to a Christian family and was not an obvious candidate to become a trailblazing Orthodox rabbi in Israel, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p>Female rabbis have grown increasingly common in more liberal Jewish denominations, but among the Orthodox opportunities for high-level religious study and positions of religious authority are reserved for men. Israel's Orthodox-controlled chief rabbinate has also refused to recognise Peretz's credentials, meaning she cannot officiate at a recognised synagogue.</p>

<p>Peretz told AFP that she does not see herself as an activist campaigning for rabbinical gender equality, but more of a "pioneer", and one comfortable highlighting injustices in Israel's rabbinical establishment. "There is nothing written in our religious texts that prevents a woman from marrying a couple, but it's forbidden in Israel," Peretz, a married mother of two, said in an interview at a synagogue in Jerusalem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While current rules prevent her from formally leading a congregation, she said she could "be a spiritual guide, offer lessons, and answer questions from the faithful... just like any male rabbi". Peretz, a dual French-Swiss national, received her ordination from Daniel Sperber, winner of the prestigious Israel Prize for his achievements in Talmudic study and a revered rabbi who has challenged the Orthodox establishment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sperber in particularly attracted headlines in 2020 for being a rare member of the Orthodox community to speak out against "gay conversion therapy", a practice widely considered a human rights violation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-want-to-meet-mermaids-you-might-find-one-in-your-local-community-pool-490972">Want to meet mermaids? You might find one in your local community pool</a></p>

<p>In 2019, a group of Orthodox women went to Israel's supreme court seeking to overturn a ban that prevents them from taking the rabbinical exam reserved for men. There has not yet been a final ruling in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, only one female Israeli citizen leads an Orthodox congregation. Shira Mirvis was named the "spiritual leader" of a community in the Efrat settlement in the occupied West Bank, but she too has not been recognised by Israel's rabbinate and also does not serve officially as a rabbi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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After converting to Judaism and undertaking three intensive years of Jewish study, 40-year-old former journalist Eliora Peretz recently became one of the few women in Israel to receive an Orthodox rabbinical ordination.

After converting to Judaism and undertaking three intensive years of Jewish study, 40-year-old former journalist Eliora Peretz recently became one of the few women in Israel to receive an Orthodox rabbinical ordination. She was born in France to a Christian family and was not an obvious candidate to become a trailblazing Orthodox rabbi in Israel, as reported by AFP. Female rabbis have grown increasingly common in more liberal Jewish denominations, but among the Orthodox opportunities for high-level religious study and positions of religious authority are reserved for men. Israel's Orthodox-controlled chief rabbinate has also refused to recognise Peretz's credentials, meaning she cannot officiate at a recognised synagogue. Peretz told AFP that she does not see herself as an activist campaigning for rabbinical gender equality, but more of a "pioneer", and one comfortable highlighting injustices in Israel's rabbinical establishment. "There is nothing written in our religious texts that prevents a woman from marrying a couple, but it's forbidden in Israel," Peretz, a married mother of two, said in an interview at a synagogue in Jerusalem. While current rules prevent her from formally leading a congregation, she said she could "be a spiritual guide, offer lessons, and answer questions from the faithful... just like any male rabbi". Peretz, a dual French-Swiss national, received her ordination from Daniel Sperber, winner of the prestigious Israel Prize for his achievements in Talmudic study and a revered rabbi who has challenged the Orthodox establishment. Sperber in particularly attracted headlines in 2020 for being a rare member of the Orthodox community to speak out against "gay conversion therapy", a practice widely considered a human rights violation. Also Read: In pics: Want to meet mermaids? You might find one in your local community pool In 2019, a group of Orthodox women went to Israel's supreme court seeking to overturn a ban that prevents them from taking the rabbinical exam reserved for men. There has not yet been a final ruling in the case. Currently, only one female Israeli citizen leads an Orthodox congregation. Shira Mirvis was named the "spiritual leader" of a community in the Efrat settlement in the occupied West Bank, but she too has not been recognised by Israel's rabbinate and also does not serve officially as a rabbi. (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.

Former French journalist becomes Orthodox rabbi in Israel

<p>French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds. They will be sold together and may fetch between $2-4 million. They will go under the hammer on November 9. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Festival in east England to reenact lives of Vikings</strong></p>

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<p>That estimate "includes not only the intrinsic value of the diamonds, but also the possibility to wear jewellery that was once worn by the famous queen Marie-Antoinette," Christie's jewellery specialist Marie-Cecile Cisamolo told AFP. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The historic jewels could may also go for far more than the asking price. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Francois Curiel, chairman, Christie's luxury division, said, "As seen in recent Geneva sales, the market for jewels of noble provenance continues to perform extremely well." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-hottest-summer-on-record-climate-scientists-411713" hreflang="en">Europe’s hottest summer on record: Climate scientists</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2018, a natural pearl and diamond pendant of the last queen of France was estimated by the Sotheby's auction house at $1-2 million but was sold for $36 million. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Marie-Antoinette was guillotined in Paris in October 1793 at the age of 37 after the French revolution. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It is not just their history that makes the bracelets special, they also have large size of the diamonds, which can range from around one to four carats. In total, the bracelets comprise 140 to 150 carats, according to the estimates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds.

French queen Marie-Antoinette's two diamond bracelets will go under the hammer in Geneva later this year, the auction house Christie's said on Wednesday. Each of these bracelets have been coated with 112 diamonds. They will be sold together and may fetch between $2-4 million. They will go under the hammer on November 9. Watch: Festival in east England to reenact lives of Vikings × That estimate "includes not only the intrinsic value of the diamonds, but also the possibility to wear jewellery that was once worn by the famous queen Marie-Antoinette," Christie's jewellery specialist Marie-Cecile Cisamolo told AFP. The historic jewels could may also go for far more than the asking price. In a statement, Francois Curiel, chairman, Christie's luxury division, said, "As seen in recent Geneva sales, the market for jewels of noble provenance continues to perform extremely well." Also Read | Europe’s hottest summer on record: Climate scientists In 2018, a natural pearl and diamond pendant of the last queen of France was estimated by the Sotheby's auction house at $1-2 million but was sold for $36 million. Marie-Antoinette was guillotined in Paris in October 1793 at the age of 37 after the French revolution. It is not just their history that makes the bracelets special, they also have large size of the diamonds, which can range from around one to four carats. In total, the bracelets comprise 140 to 150 carats, according to the estimates. (With inputs from agencies)

French queen Marie-Antoinette's diamond bracelets up for grabs at Geneva auction

<p dir="ltr">Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Francois Legault, the Quebec premier, has&nbsp;said that they have taken this to protect the French language in the country. As more than half of the<b> </b>population of North America is speaking English, he wants the province to be encouraged to practice French, reports Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storms-kill-at-least-8-in-canada-leave-half-a-million-without-power-481427">Storms kill at least 8 in Canada, leave half a million without power</a></strong></p>

<p>But, this has become a problem for the indigenous people, as they are trying to protect their culture. It has become difficult for students who already have to study English and Kanien'kéha and then learn French to join colleges in Quebec. It will likely create problems for the immigrants, as the new law states that they need to start learning French within 6 months and report to a government official.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Watch |&nbsp;</b><strong>Canada man seen with rifle shot dead by cops, days after Texas shooting incident</strong></p>

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<p>"We'll take whatever means are necessary to be sure our voice is heard,"&nbsp;Mike Delisle told Reuters. He also added that no specific decision has been taken yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-canada-top-court-ends-life-sentences-without-parole-for-mass-murderers-482781">In Canada,&nbsp;top court ends&nbsp;life sentences without&nbsp;parole&nbsp;for mass murderers</a></p>

<p>Back in the 1970s, a separatist party was formed in the province for protecting the French language in the province. Quebec has seen raging debates about the kind of languages to be practised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A supporter of the indigenous people's&nbsp;rights, Kenneth Dheer, has dubbed the measure as "re-colonisation" as he himself was forced to learn English.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;</p>

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Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people.

Quebec adopted Bill 96, a new law on Tuesday, which promotes the usage of the French language in the province. This has led to turmoil between the government and the indigenous people. Francois Legault, the Quebec premier, has said that they have taken this to protect the French language in the country. As more than half of the population of North America is speaking English, he wants the province to be encouraged to practice French, reports Reuters. Also read | Storms kill at least 8 in Canada, leave half a million without power But, this has become a problem for the indigenous people, as they are trying to protect their culture. It has become difficult for students who already have to study English and Kanien'kéha and then learn French to join colleges in Quebec. It will likely create problems for the immigrants, as the new law states that they need to start learning French within 6 months and report to a government official. Watch | Canada man seen with rifle shot dead by cops, days after Texas shooting incident "We'll take whatever means are necessary to be sure our voice is heard," Mike Delisle told Reuters. He also added that no specific decision has been taken yet. Also read | In Canada, top court ends life sentences without parole for mass murderers Back in the 1970s, a separatist party was formed in the province for protecting the French language in the province. Quebec has seen raging debates about the kind of languages to be practised. A supporter of the indigenous people's rights, Kenneth Dheer, has dubbed the measure as "re-colonisation" as he himself was forced to learn English. (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.

Quebec adopts Bill 96 for promotion of French in province, faces backlash from indigenous people

<p>As projections showed French President Emmanuel Macron is winning comfortably by 57.0-58.5 per cent of the vote, the total turnout for the presidential run-off was 63.2 per cent at 5 pm (1500 GMT) on Sunday. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It was down by over two percentage points in comparison to the same time in the second round of the presidential elections in 2017, the interior ministry said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>President Emmanuel Macron and far-right challenger Marine Le Pen are fighting for the top post. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-presidential-election-2022-eu-chiefs-italy-pm-congratulate-macron-on-re-election-after-projections-473520" hreflang="en">French Election 2022: EU chiefs, Italy PM congratulate Macron on re-election</a></strong></p>

<p>The percentage of voting participation was also below by two percentage points from what it was at 5 pm in the first round of voting, which was held on April 10. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the official figures, the abstention rate may go up to 28 per cent as per an estimate of the polling organisations. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>If it gets confirmed, it may become the highest in any presidential poll second-round run-off since 1969.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | France: Attacker stabs priest multiple times in Nice&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The low turnout may swing the final result in either direction, cautioned analysts. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, far-right leader Le Pen seems to be getting 41.5-43.0 per cent votes, as per projections by polling firms. These polls have been carried out for television channels. The&nbsp;results have been based on a sample of the vote count. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The outcome of the elections will, however, be confirmed by official results overnight. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


As projections showed French President Emmanuel Macron is winning comfortably by 57.0-58.5 per cent of the vote, the total turnout for the presidential run-off was 63.

As projections showed French President Emmanuel Macron is winning comfortably by 57.0-58.5 per cent of the vote, the total turnout for the presidential run-off was 63.2 per cent at 5 pm (1500 GMT) on Sunday. It was down by over two percentage points in comparison to the same time in the second round of the presidential elections in 2017, the interior ministry said. President Emmanuel Macron and far-right challenger Marine Le Pen are fighting for the top post. Also Read | French Election 2022: EU chiefs, Italy PM congratulate Macron on re-election The percentage of voting participation was also below by two percentage points from what it was at 5 pm in the first round of voting, which was held on April 10. According to the official figures, the abstention rate may go up to 28 per cent as per an estimate of the polling organisations. If it gets confirmed, it may become the highest in any presidential poll second-round run-off since 1969. Watch | France: Attacker stabs priest multiple times in Nice × The low turnout may swing the final result in either direction, cautioned analysts. Meanwhile, far-right leader Le Pen seems to be getting 41.5-43.0 per cent votes, as per projections by polling firms. These polls have been carried out for television channels. The results have been based on a sample of the vote count. The outcome of the elections will, however, be confirmed by official results overnight. (With inputs from agencies)

In French presidential elections 2022, voter turnout reaches 63.2%   

<p>The people have spoken. French President Emmanuel Macron defeated his far-right rival Marine Le Pen in the tense run-off election on Sunday.</p>

<p>His win makes Macron the first French President to win a second term in two decades, however, the far-right was closer than ever. The margin between the two candidates, while enough to secure a comfortable win, is narrower than in the 2017 polls.</p>

<p>As per France’s Ministry of Interior website, Macron received 58.5 per cent, with 18.8 million votes, while Le Pen stood at 41.5 per cent with 13.3 million votes. In the 2017 polls, the two candidates stood at 66.1 per cent with 20.7 million votes and 33.9 per cent with 10.6 million votes.</p>

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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-presidential-election-2022-eu-chiefs-italy-pm-congratulate-macron-on-re-election-after-projections-473520">French Presidential Election 2022: EU chiefs, Italy PM congratulate Macron on re-election after projections</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, 6.35 per cent of voters cast blank ballots in the election, voting for neither candidate.</p>

<p><strong>Social divisions out in open</strong><br />
<br />
Needless to say, the fresh election results point to a divided France. Even as Macron successfully prevented a political earthquake had his rival won, the results speak of dissatisfaction among people.</p>

<p>Acknowledging this, the French president said he would seek to make amends.</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, he said, “To those who voted for me, not to support my ideas but to block those of the extreme right, your vote obliges me. This evening, I am no longer the candidate of one camp, but the President of all.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">À celles et ceux qui ont voté pour moi, non pour soutenir mes idées mais pour faire barrage à celles de l’extrême droite, votre vote m’oblige. Ce soir, je ne suis plus le candidat d’un camp, mais le Président de toutes et tous.</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1518335324023365632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>As for Le Pen, this is her third defeat in the country’s presidential race, having previously contested in 2012 and 2017. Undoubtedly this would be a bitter pill to swallow, with all her attempts to soften her image, distancing herself and the party from the legacy of the party founder, her father Jean-Marie Le Pen.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;What factors lead to a low voter turnout in France?</strong></p>

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<p>However, Le Pen hailed her score as a “brilliant victory” and promised to “carry on” her political career, vowing that she would never abandon the French.</p>

<p>"The ideas we represent have reached new heights... this result itself represents a brilliant victory," she told a crowd of supporters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Allocution de Marine Le Pen <a href="https://t.co/K6zT7FFfiw">https://t.co/K6zT7FFfiw</a></p>
— Marine Le Pen (@MLP_officiel) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLP_officiel/status/1518291497103233026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Joining other challengers that faced defeat in the first phase of elections, she called for a new effort to hinder Macron's second term at the June Parliamentary polls.</p>

<p>"This evening, we launch the great battle for the legislative elections," Le Pen declared, expressing "hope" and encouraging opponents of the president to join her National Rally (RN) party.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-emmanuel-macron-his-life-and-political-career-in-pictures-473486">Who is Emmanuel Macron? His life and political career in pictures</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As per the Interior Ministry website the election saw a turnout of just 71.9 per cent, which as per an AFP report is the lowest in any presidential election second-round run-off since 1969.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The results brought a sigh of relief to Europe, which had feared that a Le Pen presidency would leave the region adrift after Brexit and German Chancellor Angela Merkel's resignation from politics.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="it"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Francia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Francia</a> Presidente Draghi: “La vittoria da parte di <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> nelle elezioni presidenziali francesi è una splendida notizia per tutta l’Europa”<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/presidentielles2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#presidentielles2022</a></p>
— Palazzo_Chigi (@Palazzo_Chigi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Palazzo_Chigi/status/1518300545940873219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Félicitations, herzliche Glückwünsche, lieber Präsident <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Deine Wählerinnen und Wähler haben heute auch ein starkes Bekenntnis zu Europa gesendet.<br />
Ich freue mich, dass wir unsere gute Zusammenarbeit fortsetzen! <a href="https://t.co/ZJQSc6OAz9">pic.twitter.com/ZJQSc6OAz9</a></p>
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundeskanzler/status/1518303883625480192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Chaleureux bravo cher <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a><br />
<br />
En cette période tourmentée, nous avons besoin d’une Europe solide et d’une France totalement engagée pour une Union européenne plus souveraine et plus stratégique.<br />
<br />
Nous pouvons compter sur la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> #5 ans de plus. <a href="https://t.co/JEPf6Pqght">pic.twitter.com/JEPf6Pqght</a></p>
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1518289840881680385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Cher <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>, toutes mes félicitations pour votre réélection à la présidence de la République.<br />
<br />
Je me réjouis de pouvoir continuer notre excellente coopération.<br />
<br />
Ensemble, nous ferons avancer la France et l’Europe.</p>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1518292235632132101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The people have spoken. French President Emmanuel Macron defeated his far-right rival Marine Le Pen in the tense run-off election on Sunday. His win makes Macron the first French President to win a second term in two decades, however, the far-right was closer than ever.

The people have spoken. French President Emmanuel Macron defeated his far-right rival Marine Le Pen in the tense run-off election on Sunday. His win makes Macron the first French President to win a second term in two decades, however, the far-right was closer than ever. The margin between the two candidates, while enough to secure a comfortable win, is narrower than in the 2017 polls. As per France’s Ministry of Interior website, Macron received 58.5 per cent, with 18.8 million votes, while Le Pen stood at 41.5 per cent with 13.3 million votes. In the 2017 polls, the two candidates stood at 66.1 per cent with 20.7 million votes and 33.9 per cent with 10.6 million votes. Also read | French Presidential Election 2022: EU chiefs, Italy PM congratulate Macron on re-election after projections Meanwhile, 6.35 per cent of voters cast blank ballots in the election, voting for neither candidate. Social divisions out in open Needless to say, the fresh election results point to a divided France. Even as Macron successfully prevented a political earthquake had his rival won, the results speak of dissatisfaction among people. Acknowledging this, the French president said he would seek to make amends. Taking to Twitter, he said, “To those who voted for me, not to support my ideas but to block those of the extreme right, your vote obliges me. This evening, I am no longer the candidate of one camp, but the President of all.” À celles et ceux qui ont voté pour moi, non pour soutenir mes idées mais pour faire barrage à celles de l’extrême droite, votre vote m’oblige. Ce soir, je ne suis plus le candidat d’un camp, mais le Président de toutes et tous. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 24, 2022 × As for Le Pen, this is her third defeat in the country’s presidential race, having previously contested in 2012 and 2017. Undoubtedly this would be a bitter pill to swallow, with all her attempts to soften her image, distancing herself and the party from the legacy of the party founder, her father Jean-Marie Le Pen. Watch | What factors lead to a low voter turnout in France? However, Le Pen hailed her score as a “brilliant victory” and promised to “carry on” her political career, vowing that she would never abandon the French. "The ideas we represent have reached new heights... this result itself represents a brilliant victory," she told a crowd of supporters. Allocution de Marine Le Pen https://t.co/K6zT7FFfiw — Marine Le Pen (@MLP_officiel) April 24, 2022 × Joining other challengers that faced defeat in the first phase of elections, she called for a new effort to hinder Macron's second term at the June Parliamentary polls. "This evening, we launch the great battle for the legislative elections," Le Pen declared, expressing "hope" and encouraging opponents of the president to join her National Rally (RN) party. Also read | Who is Emmanuel Macron? His life and political career in pictures As per the Interior Ministry website the election saw a turnout of just 71.9 per cent, which as per an AFP report is the lowest in any presidential election second-round run-off since 1969. The results brought a sigh of relief to Europe, which had feared that a Le Pen presidency would leave the region adrift after Brexit and German Chancellor Angela Merkel's resignation from politics. #Francia Presidente Draghi: “La vittoria da parte di @EmmanuelMacron nelle elezioni presidenziali francesi è una splendida notizia per tutta l’Europa”#presidentielles2022 — Palazzo_Chigi (@Palazzo_Chigi) April 24, 2022 × Félicitations, herzliche Glückwünsche, lieber Präsident @EmmanuelMacron. Deine Wählerinnen und Wähler haben heute auch ein starkes Bekenntnis zu Europa gesendet. Ich freue mich, dass wir unsere gute Zusammenarbeit fortsetzen! pic.twitter.com/ZJQSc6OAz9 — Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) April 24, 2022 × Chaleureux bravo cher @EmmanuelMacron En cette période tourmentée, nous avons besoin d’une Europe solide et d’une France totalement engagée pour une Union européenne plus souveraine et plus stratégique. Nous pouvons compter sur la #France #5 ans de plus. pic.twitter.com/JEPf6Pqght — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) April 24, 2022 × Cher @EmmanuelMacron, toutes mes félicitations pour votre réélection à la présidence de la République. Je me réjouis de pouvoir continuer notre excellente coopération. Ensemble, nous ferons avancer la France et l’Europe. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 24, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

French Presidential Election 2022: Macron wins second term by a smaller margin amid lower turnout

<p>World leaders hurried to congratulate France's centrist President Emmanuel Macron on his re-election and victory over far-right leader Marine Le Pen in Sunday's elections.</p>

<p>Macron's win makes him the first French President to win re-election in two decades.</p>

<p>According to the website of the French Ministry of&nbsp;Interior, Macron received 58.5 per cent of the vote, or 18.8 million votes, while Le Pen received 41.5 per cent of the vote or 13.3 million votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let's check out the wishes:</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated French President Emmanuel Macron on his re-election and defeat of far-right candidate Marine Le Pen, said the Kremlin, as tensions remain over the Ukraine conflict.</p>

<p>"I sincerely wish you success in your state activities, as well as good health and well-being," Putin said in a telegram to Macron, according to a statement from the Kremlin.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on his re-election. France is our oldest ally and a key partner in addressing global challenges. I look forward to our continued close cooperation — including on supporting Ukraine, defending democracy, and countering climate change.</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1518361861661544448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on your historic re-election. When I was in Paris, we discussed our long-standing alliance and our shared interests all around the world. The U.S. looks forward to continuing to deepen this valuable relationship with France.</p>
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1518400243397799936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on being re-elected as the President of France! I look forward to continue working together to deepen the India-France Strategic Partnership.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1518418251323420673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations, <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Looking forward to continuing our work together on the issues that matter most to people in Canada and France – from defending democracy, to fighting climate change, to creating good jobs and economic growth for the middle class. <a href="https://t.co/RHTBH4dn19">pic.twitter.com/RHTBH4dn19</a></p>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1518310515583463424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. We look forward to continuing close cooperation with France on global challenges, underpinning our long and enduring Alliance and friendship. <a href="https://t.co/sdy2qVN97N">https://t.co/sdy2qVN97N</a></p>
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1518364745400733698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="it"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Francia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Francia</a> Presidente Draghi: “La vittoria da parte di <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> nelle elezioni presidenziali francesi è una splendida notizia per tutta l’Europa”<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/presidentielles2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#presidentielles2022</a></p>
— Palazzo_Chigi (@Palazzo_Chigi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Palazzo_Chigi/status/1518300545940873219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Félicitations, herzliche Glückwünsche, lieber Präsident <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. Deine Wählerinnen und Wähler haben heute auch ein starkes Bekenntnis zu Europa gesendet.<br />
Ich freue mich, dass wir unsere gute Zusammenarbeit fortsetzen! <a href="https://t.co/ZJQSc6OAz9">pic.twitter.com/ZJQSc6OAz9</a></p>
— Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundeskanzler/status/1518303883625480192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Chaleureux bravo cher <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a><br />
<br />
En cette période tourmentée, nous avons besoin d’une Europe solide et d’une France totalement engagée pour une Union européenne plus souveraine et plus stratégique.<br />
<br />
Nous pouvons compter sur la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> #5 ans de plus. <a href="https://t.co/JEPf6Pqght">pic.twitter.com/JEPf6Pqght</a></p>
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1518289840881680385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Cher <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>, toutes mes félicitations pour votre réélection à la présidence de la République.<br />
<br />
Je me réjouis de pouvoir continuer notre excellente coopération.<br />
<br />
Ensemble, nous ferons avancer la France et l’Europe.</p>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1518292235632132101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on your re-election as President of France. France is one of our closest and most important allies. I look forward to continuing to work together on the issues which matter most to our two countries and to the world.<br />
<br />
🇬🇧🇫🇷</p>
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1518298495773519873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Félicitations à <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>, un vrai ami de l’Ukraine, pour sa réélection! Je lui souhaite de nouveaux succès pour le bien du peuple 🇫🇷. J'apprécie son soutien et je suis convaincu que nous avançons ensemble vers de nouvelles victoires communes. Vers une Europe forte et unie!</p>
— Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1518346676582367236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations Emmanuel Macron on your re-election as President. Another great expression of liberal democracy in action in uncertain times. We wish you &amp; France every success, in particular your leadership in Europe and as an important partner to Australia in the Indo-Pacific.</p>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1518387617007833088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Los ciudadanos han elegido una Francia comprometida con una UE libre, fuerte y justa.<br />
<br />
Gana la democracia. Gana Europa.<br />
<br />
Enhorabuena <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Presidentielles2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Presidentielles2022</a></p>
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanchezcastejon/status/1518302675879739395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="nl">De Fransen hebben vandaag een belangrijke keuze gemaakt. Ze kozen voor zekerheid en voor de waarden van de Verlichting.<br />
<br />
Ik feliciteer <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> van harte met zijn herverkiezing. Laat ons samen werk maken van een sterk en verenigd Europa. <a href="https://t.co/ILtOcbfBat">pic.twitter.com/ILtOcbfBat</a></p>
— Alexander De Croo 🇧🇪🇪🇺 (@alexanderdecroo) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexanderdecroo/status/1518289685658882052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Vives félicitations à <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> réélu Président de la République française 🇫🇷.<br />
<br />
Nous continuerons à compter sur son soutien — en France, en Europe et dans le monde — alors que les défis humanitaires et les crises des réfugiés deviennent chaque jour plus graves et complexes.</p>
— Filippo Grandi (@FilippoGrandi) <a href="https://twitter.com/FilippoGrandi/status/1518302032934936576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Félicitations, mon ami <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>, à l'occasion de votre réélection à la présidence de la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>. J'ai hâte de poursuivre l'important partenariat entre 🇫🇷 et <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> pour un monde plus sain, plus sûr et plus juste. <a href="https://t.co/8vYLErniKF">pic.twitter.com/8vYLErniKF</a></p>
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1518315735554170880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on your re-election as President of France.<br />
<br />
Your principled and dynamic leadership is important not only for France, but for Europe.<br />
<br />
I look forward to us continuing to work together on the challenges ahead. <a href="https://t.co/krXJx0Z8zK">pic.twitter.com/krXJx0Z8zK</a></p>
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichealMartinTD/status/1518302240624234497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Toutes mes félicitations à <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> pour sa réélection à la Présidence de la République française 🇫🇷 Nos pays sont étroitement liés – notamment par la plus grande communauté de Suisses et de Français de l'étranger. Je me réjouis de poursuivre notre bonne collaboration 🤝</p>
— Ignazio Cassis (@ignaziocassis) <a href="https://twitter.com/ignaziocassis/status/1518303722509680642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Warmest congratulations to President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on tonight’s election results! Let’s continue our close cooperation – bilaterally and for a competitive, green and resilient European Union.</p>
— SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwedishPM/status/1518296050318159876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Toute mes félicitations à <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> pour la réélection à la présidence de la République 🇫🇷. Je me réjouis de continuer et approfondir notre coopération en Europe, pour le climat, pour le progrès et pour la paix.</p>
— Jonas Gahr Støre (@jonasgahrstore) <a href="https://twitter.com/jonasgahrstore/status/1518307497689464836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Félicitations à <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> pour sa brillante réélection.<br />
Ensemble, nous continuerons à travailler au raffermissement des relations entre le <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gabon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gabon</a> et la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>.<br />
Plus qu'un passé en commun, nos deux pays ont un <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/avenir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#avenir</a> à construire.</p>
— Ali Bongo Ondimba (@PresidentABO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresidentABO/status/1518298658067861511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


World leaders hurried to congratulate France's centrist President Emmanuel Macron on his re-election and victory over far-right leader Marine Le Pen in Sunday's elections.

World leaders hurried to congratulate France's centrist President Emmanuel Macron on his re-election and victory over far-right leader Marine Le Pen in Sunday's elections. Macron's win makes him the first French President to win re-election in two decades. According to the website of the French Ministry of Interior, Macron received 58.5 per cent of the vote, or 18.8 million votes, while Le Pen received 41.5 per cent of the vote or 13.3 million votes. Let's check out the wishes: Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated French President Emmanuel Macron on his re-election and defeat of far-right candidate Marine Le Pen, said the Kremlin, as tensions remain over the Ukraine conflict. "I sincerely wish you success in your state activities, as well as good health and well-being," Putin said in a telegram to Macron, according to a statement from the Kremlin. Congratulations to @EmmanuelMacron on his re-election. France is our oldest ally and a key partner in addressing global challenges. I look forward to our continued close cooperation — including on supporting Ukraine, defending democracy, and countering climate change. — President Biden (@POTUS) April 24, 2022 × Congratulations President @EmmanuelMacron on your historic re-election. When I was in Paris, we discussed our long-standing alliance and our shared interests all around the world. The U.S. looks forward to continuing to deepen this valuable relationship with France. — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) April 25, 2022 × Congratulations to my friend @EmmanuelMacron on being re-elected as the President of France! I look forward to continue working together to deepen the India-France Strategic Partnership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2022 × Congratulations, @EmmanuelMacron. Looking forward to continuing our work together on the issues that matter most to people in Canada and France – from defending democracy, to fighting climate change, to creating good jobs and economic growth for the middle class. pic.twitter.com/RHTBH4dn19 — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 24, 2022 × Congratulations to @EmmanuelMacron. We look forward to continuing close cooperation with France on global challenges, underpinning our long and enduring Alliance and friendship. https://t.co/sdy2qVN97N — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) April 24, 2022 × #Francia Presidente Draghi: “La vittoria da parte di @EmmanuelMacron nelle elezioni presidenziali francesi è una splendida notizia per tutta l’Europa”#presidentielles2022 — Palazzo_Chigi (@Palazzo_Chigi) April 24, 2022 × Félicitations, herzliche Glückwünsche, lieber Präsident @EmmanuelMacron. Deine Wählerinnen und Wähler haben heute auch ein starkes Bekenntnis zu Europa gesendet. Ich freue mich, dass wir unsere gute Zusammenarbeit fortsetzen! pic.twitter.com/ZJQSc6OAz9 — Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@Bundeskanzler) April 24, 2022 × Chaleureux bravo cher @EmmanuelMacron En cette période tourmentée, nous avons besoin d’une Europe solide et d’une France totalement engagée pour une Union européenne plus souveraine et plus stratégique. Nous pouvons compter sur la #France #5 ans de plus. pic.twitter.com/JEPf6Pqght — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) April 24, 2022 × Cher @EmmanuelMacron, toutes mes félicitations pour votre réélection à la présidence de la République. Je me réjouis de pouvoir continuer notre excellente coopération. Ensemble, nous ferons avancer la France et l’Europe. — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 24, 2022 × Congratulations to @EmmanuelMacron on your re-election as President of France. France is one of our closest and most important allies. I look forward to continuing to work together on the issues which matter most to our two countries and to the world. 🇬🇧🇫🇷 — Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 24, 2022 × Félicitations à @EmmanuelMacron, un vrai ami de l’Ukraine, pour sa réélection! Je lui souhaite de nouveaux succès pour le bien du peuple 🇫🇷. J'apprécie son soutien et je suis convaincu que nous avançons ensemble vers de nouvelles victoires communes. Vers une Europe forte et unie! — Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 24, 2022 × Congratulations Emmanuel Macron on your re-election as President. Another great expression of liberal democracy in action in uncertain times. We wish you & France every success, in particular your leadership in Europe and as an important partner to Australia in the Indo-Pacific. — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) April 25, 2022 × Los ciudadanos han elegido una Francia comprometida con una UE libre, fuerte y justa. Gana la democracia. Gana Europa. Enhorabuena @EmmanuelMacron. #Presidentielles2022 — Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) April 24, 2022 × De Fransen hebben vandaag een belangrijke keuze gemaakt. Ze kozen voor zekerheid en voor de waarden van de Verlichting. Ik feliciteer @EmmanuelMacron van harte met zijn herverkiezing. Laat ons samen werk maken van een sterk en verenigd Europa. pic.twitter.com/ILtOcbfBat — Alexander De Croo 🇧🇪🇪🇺 (@alexanderdecroo) April 24, 2022 × Vives félicitations à @EmmanuelMacron réélu Président de la République française 🇫🇷. Nous continuerons à compter sur son soutien — en France, en Europe et dans le monde — alors que les défis humanitaires et les crises des réfugiés deviennent chaque jour plus graves et complexes. — Filippo Grandi (@FilippoGrandi) April 24, 2022 × Félicitations, mon ami @EmmanuelMacron, à l'occasion de votre réélection à la présidence de la #France. J'ai hâte de poursuivre l'important partenariat entre 🇫🇷 et @WHO pour un monde plus sain, plus sûr et plus juste. pic.twitter.com/8vYLErniKF — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) April 24, 2022 × Congratulations @EmmanuelMacron on your re-election as President of France. Your principled and dynamic leadership is important not only for France, but for Europe. I look forward to us continuing to work together on the challenges ahead. pic.twitter.com/krXJx0Z8zK — Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) April 24, 2022 × Toutes mes félicitations à @EmmanuelMacron pour sa réélection à la Présidence de la République française 🇫🇷 Nos pays sont étroitement liés – notamment par la plus grande communauté de Suisses et de Français de l'étranger. Je me réjouis de poursuivre notre bonne collaboration 🤝 — Ignazio Cassis (@ignaziocassis) April 24, 2022 × Warmest congratulations to President @EmmanuelMacron on tonight’s election results! Let’s continue our close cooperation – bilaterally and for a competitive, green and resilient European Union. — SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) April 24, 2022 × Toute mes félicitations à @EmmanuelMacron pour la réélection à la présidence de la République 🇫🇷. Je me réjouis de continuer et approfondir notre coopération en Europe, pour le climat, pour le progrès et pour la paix. — Jonas Gahr Støre (@jonasgahrstore) April 24, 2022 × Félicitations à @EmmanuelMacron pour sa brillante réélection. Ensemble, nous continuerons à travailler au raffermissement des relations entre le #Gabon et la #France. Plus qu'un passé en commun, nos deux pays ont un #avenir à construire. — Ali Bongo Ondimba (@PresidentABO) April 24, 2022 × (With inputs from agencies)

World leaders send their 'warmest congratulations' to Emmanuel Macron. Check out the wishes!

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