Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Paris' Orly airport and is welcomed by French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne ahead of his participation as guest of honour in France's annual Bastille Day military parade.

PM Modi’s France Visit: Modi meets President of French Senate

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Turkey agrees to support Sweden's NATO bid, France's Macron and Italy's Meloni in Vilnius ahead of summit, US and Kyiv suspect Wagner nearing Nuclear base, Knesset gives initial nod to controversial judicial bill.

Turkey agrees to support Sweden's NATO bid | NATO Summit 2023 | WION Speed News

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron. Ahead of Modi's visit to France next week, Macron's Diplomatic Advisor Emmanuel Bonne was in Delhi to lay the ground for the high-profile visit.

India's NSA Doval meets French counterpart before Modi's Paris visit

<p>Donations for the French police officer, who shot dead 17-year-old Nahel in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check triggering nationwide protests across the country, have been halted as the fund reached more than 1.6 million euros ($1.7 million).&nbsp;</p>

<p>French far-right media personality Jean Messiha, who was the one behind launching the initiative on GoFundMe.com, on Wednesday said that he had closed the campaign in accordance with the policeman's family as it had reached "a comfortable level".</p>

<p>An ultra-nationalist and former adviser to anti-immigration politicians Marine Le Pen and Eric Zemmour, Messiha launched the crowdfunding campaign last week sparking controversy and calls for GoFundMe to suspend the collection.</p>

<p>The mother of the victim, Nahel M, who was shot dead by the French policeman last week, launched legal action against Messiha.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fundraising-campaign-for-french-police-officer-who-shot-teenager-tops-donations-given-to-victims-family-612407">Fundraising campaign for French police officer who shot teenager tops donations given to victim's family</a></p>

<p>"A complaint has been lodged today for fraud by a group, misuse of personal data and conspiracy in these crimes against Jean Messiha and everyone identified in the investigation as taking part in these offences," her lawyer Yassine Bouzrou said in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP.</p>

<p>Several left-wing lawmakers have also launched legal action in an attempt to close the fund.</p>

<h2><strong>Funds for French police officer top donations given to victim's family</strong></h2>

<p>The amount raised for the police officer exceeded the donations made to the teenager's family, sparking outrage among many French nationals.</p>

<p>The crowdfunding, which was launched on the US platform GoFundMe by French far-right media personality Jean Messiha, received more than 72,000 private donations.</p>

<p>"This police officer is the victim of a national witch-hunt and it is a disgrace," Messiha tweeted.</p>

<p>"The fact that it was someone close to the far right who launched this fund does not, without doubt, help to calm things down," said French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne.</p>

<p>A video of the incident being circulated on social media showed two police officers beside the car, a Mercedes AMG, with one shooting as the driver pulled away.</p>

<p>Another teenager in the car has claimed the officers who stopped Nahel hit him with the butts of their pistols, and a voice can be heard on the video shouting: "You are going to get a bullet in the head."</p>

<p>Messiha said the fund was "a cry from French people to demand order, a cry of love for their security forces."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from the agencies)</em></p>

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Donations for the French police officer, who shot dead 17-year-old Nahel in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check triggering nationwide protests across the country, have been halted as the fund reached more than 1.

Donations for the French police officer, who shot dead 17-year-old Nahel in the Paris suburb of Nanterre for fleeing a traffic check triggering nationwide protests across the country, have been halted as the fund reached more than 1.6 million euros ($1.7 million). French far-right media personality Jean Messiha, who was the one behind launching the initiative on GoFundMe.com, on Wednesday said that he had closed the campaign in accordance with the policeman's family as it had reached "a comfortable level". An ultra-nationalist and former adviser to anti-immigration politicians Marine Le Pen and Eric Zemmour, Messiha launched the crowdfunding campaign last week sparking controversy and calls for GoFundMe to suspend the collection. The mother of the victim, Nahel M, who was shot dead by the French policeman last week, launched legal action against Messiha. Also read: Fundraising campaign for French police officer who shot teenager tops donations given to victim's family "A complaint has been lodged today for fraud by a group, misuse of personal data and conspiracy in these crimes against Jean Messiha and everyone identified in the investigation as taking part in these offences," her lawyer Yassine Bouzrou said in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP. Several left-wing lawmakers have also launched legal action in an attempt to close the fund. Funds for French police officer top donations given to victim's family The amount raised for the police officer exceeded the donations made to the teenager's family, sparking outrage among many French nationals. The crowdfunding, which was launched on the US platform GoFundMe by French far-right media personality Jean Messiha, received more than 72,000 private donations. "This police officer is the victim of a national witch-hunt and it is a disgrace," Messiha tweeted. "The fact that it was someone close to the far right who launched this fund does not, without doubt, help to calm things down," said French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne. A video of the incident being circulated on social media showed two police officers beside the car, a Mercedes AMG, with one shooting as the driver pulled away. Another teenager in the car has claimed the officers who stopped Nahel hit him with the butts of their pistols, and a voice can be heard on the video shouting: "You are going to get a bullet in the head." Messiha said the fund was "a cry from French people to demand order, a cry of love for their security forces." (With inputs from the agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France: Donations for policeman who shot dead teenager in Paris suburb halted

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, expressed concerns about Russia's intentions to carry out "dangerous provocations" at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Moscow's control.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plant, Europe's largest, has been a subject of ongoing safety concerns since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has been ongoing for over a year now. Zelensky stressed the need to maintain maximum control over the situation and involve the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in addressing the potential risks.</p>

<p>"I warned Emmanuel Macron that the occupation troops are preparing for dangerous provocations at the Zaporizhzhia plant," Zelensky told Macron and added, "We agreed to keep the situation under maximum control together with the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/discovery-of-cocaine-in-white-house-library-prompts-secret-service-investigation-611984">Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation</a></p>

<p>Over the weekend, Zelensky&nbsp;told media personnel in Kyiv, "There is a serious threat. Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the plant, which could lead to the release of dangerous substances into the air."</p>

<p>“We are discussing all this with our partners so that everyone understands why Russia is doing this and put pressure on the Russian Federation politically so that they don't even think about such a thing," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's military intelligence claims</strong></h2>

<p>The previous week, Ukraine's State Emergency Service organised drills focused on radioactive safety in the Zaporizhzhia region. According to information from Ukrainian Military Intelligence, a group of Russian military personnel and nuclear power plant workers supported by Russia were observed gradually departing from the facility.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-military-is-completing-mission-in-west-bank-says-pm-netanyahu-death-toll-in-jenin-rises-to-11-611977">Israeli military is ‘completing mission’ in West Bank, says PM Netanyahu; death toll in Jenin rises to 11</a></p>

<p>“Among the first to leave the station were three Rosatom employees, who managed the actions of the Russians,” Ukrainian military intelligence said in a statement. As per Politico's report, the Russian workers were asked to depart the facility by 5 July.</p>

<p>“The personnel remaining at the station were instructed to blame Ukraine in case of any emergencies," the statement claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the military's claim, objects resembling explosive devices had been placed on the outer roof of two reactors, with the intention of creating an impression of Ukrainian shelling while avoiding damage to the power units.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Russia says Ukraine attacked Moscow with 5 drones</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Response from Russia's Rosatom</strong> &nbsp;</h2>

<p>In response, Renat Karchaa, an adviser to Russia's Rosatom nuclear agency, accused Ukraine of planning an attack on the nuclear plant. Karchaa alleged that the Ukrainian army would attempt to target the Zaporizhzhia facility using high-precision, long-range weapons and drones.</p>

<p>"Today, we got information that I am authorised to announce... On July 5, literally at night, in the dark, the Ukrainian army will try to attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant," Karchaa told Russian state television.</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, both Russia and Ukraine have repeatedly accused each other of jeopardising the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The situation remains tense as the international community closely monitors developments at the facility.</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, expressed concerns about Russia's intentions to carry out "dangerous provocations" at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Moscow's control.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, expressed concerns about Russia's intentions to carry out "dangerous provocations" at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Moscow's control. The plant, Europe's largest, has been a subject of ongoing safety concerns since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has been ongoing for over a year now. Zelensky stressed the need to maintain maximum control over the situation and involve the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in addressing the potential risks. "I warned Emmanuel Macron that the occupation troops are preparing for dangerous provocations at the Zaporizhzhia plant," Zelensky told Macron and added, "We agreed to keep the situation under maximum control together with the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)." Also Read | Discovery of cocaine in White House library prompts secret service investigation Over the weekend, Zelensky told media personnel in Kyiv, "There is a serious threat. Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the plant, which could lead to the release of dangerous substances into the air." “We are discussing all this with our partners so that everyone understands why Russia is doing this and put pressure on the Russian Federation politically so that they don't even think about such a thing," he added. Ukraine's military intelligence claims The previous week, Ukraine's State Emergency Service organised drills focused on radioactive safety in the Zaporizhzhia region. According to information from Ukrainian Military Intelligence, a group of Russian military personnel and nuclear power plant workers supported by Russia were observed gradually departing from the facility. Also Read | Israeli military is ‘completing mission’ in West Bank, says PM Netanyahu; death toll in Jenin rises to 11 “Among the first to leave the station were three Rosatom employees, who managed the actions of the Russians,” Ukrainian military intelligence said in a statement. As per Politico's report, the Russian workers were asked to depart the facility by 5 July. “The personnel remaining at the station were instructed to blame Ukraine in case of any emergencies," the statement claimed. According to the military's claim, objects resembling explosive devices had been placed on the outer roof of two reactors, with the intention of creating an impression of Ukrainian shelling while avoiding damage to the power units. WATCH | Gravitas: Russia says Ukraine attacked Moscow with 5 drones × Response from Russia's Rosatom In response, Renat Karchaa, an adviser to Russia's Rosatom nuclear agency, accused Ukraine of planning an attack on the nuclear plant. Karchaa alleged that the Ukrainian army would attempt to target the Zaporizhzhia facility using high-precision, long-range weapons and drones. "Today, we got information that I am authorised to announce... On July 5, literally at night, in the dark, the Ukrainian army will try to attack the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant," Karchaa told Russian state television. Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, both Russia and Ukraine have repeatedly accused each other of jeopardising the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The situation remains tense as the international community closely monitors developments at the facility. 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. ×

Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies

The riots in France are showing no prospects of respite. Cars are engulfed in flames, showrooms are being vandalised & tear gas is thrown open on protesters. France is burning because of the violent protests in the aftermath of the police killing of a teen. Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager, was shot dead by police in Nanterre during a traffic stop. The incident sparked outrage among citizens of France. Social media acted as fuel in this blaze of violence.

The role of social media platforms in fuelling riots in France

The Elysee palace meeting with around 250 mayors, whose municipalities suffered damage over a week of violence, comes as the authorities reported a much calmer night across the country.

France: Emmanuel Macron says riots 'peak' has passed at meeting with local mayors

French Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain has termed the upcoming visit of Indian PM Modi to France as "significant" even as he described India France relationship as an "exceptional relationship based on trust". PM Modi is the guest of honour at the Bastille Day on 14 July. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "We also want to increase existing cooperation; we want more and more people-to-people exchanges because we feel that's the foundation of it and we want more students from India to our Universities and Colleges.'. he also spoke on space, defence, people to people cooperation."

French Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain: PM Modi's visit strengthens unparalleled alliance

French President Emmanuel Macron came up with a string of suggestions and announcements after he conducts another round of crisis meetings. Macron asks parents in Paris to keep their children off the streets. Around 875 people have been arrested so far and the accused police officer also apologised.

French President Emmanuel Macron chairs new crisis meeting

Paris is burning for the third night in protests with battles being fought in the suburbs. French President Emmanuel Macron has been missing in action and was spotted grooving to a selection of Elton John concert.

French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots

<p>Multilateral development banks are expected to unlock $200 billion in extra firepower for emerging economies by running their balance sheets more tightly and taking on more risk, world leaders meeting at a summit in Paris said on Friday.</p>

<p>Many of the around 40 leaders gathered in Paris voiced concerns that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund were increasingly outdated for tackling challenges like climate change and post-COVID debt burdens of poor countries.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-temple-visits-on-rise-as-jobless-young-people-seek-spiritual-help-607805">China: Temple visits on rise as jobless young people seek spiritual help</a></p>

<p>"We ... expect an overall increase of 200 billion (dollars) of MDBs' lending capacity over the next ten years by optimizing their balance sheets and taking more risks," the summit's final statement obtained by Reuters said.</p>

<p>"If these reforms are implemented, MDBs may need more capital," it added.</p>

<p>U.S Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in Paris ahead of the summit that efforts to squeeze more lending from the development lenders had to be carried out before considering the possibility of capital increases.</p>

<p>The U.S. is the largest shareholder of the IMF and World Bank.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-combat-ship-to-make-rare-port-call-in-vietnam-amid-south-china-sea-tensions-607798">US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions</a></p>

<p>The Paris summit, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, gathered around two dozen leaders from Africa, China's prime minister and Brazil's president had gathered to give impetus to a new global finance agenda.</p>

<p>At the summit, wealthy nations finalised an overdue $100-billion climate finance pledge to developing countries and created a fund for biodiversity and the protection of forests.</p>

<p>The summit aims to create multifaceted roadmaps that can be used over the next 18-24 months, ranging from debt relief to climate finance. Many of the topics on the agenda take up suggestions from a group of developing countries, led by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, dubbed the 'Bridgetown Initiative'.</p>

<p>"There is the political consensus that this issue is bigger than each of us and we have to work together and multilateral development banks will have to change how they do business and that is accepted," Mottley said at the summit's final panel.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Indian PM Modi and US President Biden stress democracy, minority rights in joint press conference</strong></p>

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<p>"We leave Paris not with speeches simply, but a commitment to get down into the granular details to make sure that what we agree here can be executed."</p>

<p>Leaders were also hoping to reform post-war financial institutions and free up funds to tackle climate change by getting consensus on how to promote a number of initiatives struggling in bodies like the G20, COP, IMF-World Bank and United Nations.</p>

<p>The $100 billion pledge falls far short of poor nations' actual needs, but has become symbolic of wealthy countries' failure to deliver promised climate funds. This has fuelled mistrust in wider climate negotiations between countries attempting to boost CO2-cutting measures.</p>

<p>"If we can't shape the rules in this time like others before, then we will be accountable for what potentially can be worst reality of mankind," Mottley said.</p>

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Multilateral development banks are expected to unlock $200 billion in extra firepower for emerging economies by running their balance sheets more tightly and taking on more risk, world leaders meeting at a summit in Paris said on Friday.

Multilateral development banks are expected to unlock $200 billion in extra firepower for emerging economies by running their balance sheets more tightly and taking on more risk, world leaders meeting at a summit in Paris said on Friday. Many of the around 40 leaders gathered in Paris voiced concerns that the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund were increasingly outdated for tackling challenges like climate change and post-COVID debt burdens of poor countries. Also Read | China: Temple visits on rise as jobless young people seek spiritual help "We ... expect an overall increase of 200 billion (dollars) of MDBs' lending capacity over the next ten years by optimizing their balance sheets and taking more risks," the summit's final statement obtained by Reuters said. "If these reforms are implemented, MDBs may need more capital," it added. U.S Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in Paris ahead of the summit that efforts to squeeze more lending from the development lenders had to be carried out before considering the possibility of capital increases. The U.S. is the largest shareholder of the IMF and World Bank. Also Read | US combat ship to make rare port call in Vietnam amid South China Sea tensions The Paris summit, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, gathered around two dozen leaders from Africa, China's prime minister and Brazil's president had gathered to give impetus to a new global finance agenda. At the summit, wealthy nations finalised an overdue $100-billion climate finance pledge to developing countries and created a fund for biodiversity and the protection of forests. The summit aims to create multifaceted roadmaps that can be used over the next 18-24 months, ranging from debt relief to climate finance. Many of the topics on the agenda take up suggestions from a group of developing countries, led by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, dubbed the 'Bridgetown Initiative'. "There is the political consensus that this issue is bigger than each of us and we have to work together and multilateral development banks will have to change how they do business and that is accepted," Mottley said at the summit's final panel. Watch | Indian PM Modi and US President Biden stress democracy, minority rights in joint press conference × "We leave Paris not with speeches simply, but a commitment to get down into the granular details to make sure that what we agree here can be executed." Leaders were also hoping to reform post-war financial institutions and free up funds to tackle climate change by getting consensus on how to promote a number of initiatives struggling in bodies like the G20, COP, IMF-World Bank and United Nations. The $100 billion pledge falls far short of poor nations' actual needs, but has become symbolic of wealthy countries' failure to deliver promised climate funds. This has fuelled mistrust in wider climate negotiations between countries attempting to boost CO2-cutting measures. "If we can't shape the rules in this time like others before, then we will be accountable for what potentially can be worst reality of mankind," Mottley said. 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. ×

Development banks can boost lending by $200 bln: World leaders at Paris summit

<p>In his opening remarks at the climate finance summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke of the need for "public finance shock" or a global surge of financing to fight the challenges of climate change and poverty. He said that changes were needed in the global lending system in order to ensure that low-income countries "shouldn't have to choose" between fighting climate change and poverty.</p>

<p>Macron said that the international lending system, of which the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are foundations, has been valuable in previous decades, but now it is "not completely suited" to tackle current challenges before the world.</p>

<p>"We can make it work much better if this money and these liquidities were at the service of progress on the planet and tackling this double challenge that I mentioned: poverty and climate change, (and) biodiversity," Macron said.</p>

<p>Government and international leaders are gathered in Paris for a climate summit aiming to pin down a roadmap for easing the debt burdens of low-income countries while freeing up more funds for climate financing.</p>

<p>Macron added that along with a 'public finance shock', a massive private investment in green technology was needed in order to help the world transition to a low-carbon economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Policymakers and countries shouldn't ever have to choose between reducing poverty and protecting the planet," he told an audience that included dozens of heads of state who have travelled to the French capital for two days of talks.</p>

<p>Macron said that world leaders, international organisations and the private sector needed to act immediately to change how the global financial system worked. If this is not done, all these stakeholders risk losing the trust of the people.</p>

<p>"If we miss the target... trust of our people will be lost," Macron said, adding that the next two years were crucial</p>

<p>"We have to create a collective dynamic and we need much more from the private sector."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In his opening remarks at the climate finance summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke of the need for "public finance shock" or a global surge of financing to fight the challenges of climate change and poverty.

In his opening remarks at the climate finance summit in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke of the need for "public finance shock" or a global surge of financing to fight the challenges of climate change and poverty. He said that changes were needed in the global lending system in order to ensure that low-income countries "shouldn't have to choose" between fighting climate change and poverty. Macron said that the international lending system, of which the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are foundations, has been valuable in previous decades, but now it is "not completely suited" to tackle current challenges before the world. "We can make it work much better if this money and these liquidities were at the service of progress on the planet and tackling this double challenge that I mentioned: poverty and climate change, (and) biodiversity," Macron said. Government and international leaders are gathered in Paris for a climate summit aiming to pin down a roadmap for easing the debt burdens of low-income countries while freeing up more funds for climate financing. Macron added that along with a 'public finance shock', a massive private investment in green technology was needed in order to help the world transition to a low-carbon economy. "Policymakers and countries shouldn't ever have to choose between reducing poverty and protecting the planet," he told an audience that included dozens of heads of state who have travelled to the French capital for two days of talks. Macron said that world leaders, international organisations and the private sector needed to act immediately to change how the global financial system worked. If this is not done, all these stakeholders risk losing the trust of the people. "If we miss the target... trust of our people will be lost," Macron said, adding that the next two years were crucial "We have to create a collective dynamic and we need much more from the private sector." (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 ×

At climate finance summit, Macron stresses need for 'public finance shock'

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Elysée Palace in Paris on Friday where the two will discuss the Ukraine war and Riyadh's World Expo 2030 bid, media reports said.&nbsp;Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as "MBS", will participate in the official reception on June 19 for Riyadh's candidacy for the world fair.</p>

<p>The bid to host the World Expo 2030 has become a contentious issue, drawing attention from over a dozen human rights organisations who penned an open letter to the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris. These groups urged the world fair organiser to reject Saudi Arabia's candidacy due to its alarming human rights track record.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-uk-police-watchdog-chief-charged-with-rape-of-teen-girl-indecent-assault-605180">Ex-UK police watchdog chief charged with rape of teen girl, indecent assault</a></p>

<p>However, the year 2030 holds significant importance for Saudi Arabia as it aligns with Vision 2030, the ambitious plan spearheaded by the crown prince for economic diversification and reforms. The Gulf kingdom is also vying to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-air-raid-sirens-greet-african-peace-mission-leaders-visiting-kyiv-605173">Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv</a></p>

<p>The outcome of these bids holds immense significance for Saudi Arabia, with a successful acquisition of the universal expo for 2030 representing a major triumph for the nation's goals and aspirations.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine, Lebanon, Iraq, Sudan, and bilateral ties</strong></h2>

<p>The French Presidency announced that the two leaders would also address the ongoing war in Ukraine. Additionally, they are expected to discuss various issues, including the situation&nbsp;in Lebanon and Iraq, the civil war in Sudan, and methods to reduce tensions. The talks will cover various aspects of bilateral relations, encompassing economic, military, and cultural matters.</p>

<h2><strong>Past visits, international engagement</strong></h2>

<p>The Crown Prince previously visited Paris officially in July 2022. Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, MBS has broken out of global isolation and has been meeting with leaders who were previously hesitant to engage with him due to tarnished human rights record in his country.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Five terrorists killed in Kashmir</strong></p>

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<p>During his visit to France, Mohammed bin Salman is also scheduled to attend the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact hosted by President Macron on June 22-23.</p>

<p>Prior to his arrival in France, MBS left Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, according to the Saudi Royal Court. He owns the Chateau Louis XIV, a modern structure in Versailles that aims to replicate the grandeur of French imperial palaces.</p>

<p>The visit underscores Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's accommodation of the demands of influential nations while simultaneously advancing his own aspirations.</p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Elysée Palace in Paris on Friday where the two will discuss the Ukraine war and Riyadh's World Expo 2030 bid, media reports said.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Elysée Palace in Paris on Friday where the two will discuss the Ukraine war and Riyadh's World Expo 2030 bid, media reports said. Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as "MBS", will participate in the official reception on June 19 for Riyadh's candidacy for the world fair. The bid to host the World Expo 2030 has become a contentious issue, drawing attention from over a dozen human rights organisations who penned an open letter to the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris. These groups urged the world fair organiser to reject Saudi Arabia's candidacy due to its alarming human rights track record. Also Read | Ex-UK police watchdog chief charged with rape of teen girl, indecent assault However, the year 2030 holds significant importance for Saudi Arabia as it aligns with Vision 2030, the ambitious plan spearheaded by the crown prince for economic diversification and reforms. The Gulf kingdom is also vying to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Also Read | Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv The outcome of these bids holds immense significance for Saudi Arabia, with a successful acquisition of the universal expo for 2030 representing a major triumph for the nation's goals and aspirations. Ukraine, Lebanon, Iraq, Sudan, and bilateral ties The French Presidency announced that the two leaders would also address the ongoing war in Ukraine. Additionally, they are expected to discuss various issues, including the situation in Lebanon and Iraq, the civil war in Sudan, and methods to reduce tensions. The talks will cover various aspects of bilateral relations, encompassing economic, military, and cultural matters. Past visits, international engagement The Crown Prince previously visited Paris officially in July 2022. Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, MBS has broken out of global isolation and has been meeting with leaders who were previously hesitant to engage with him due to tarnished human rights record in his country. Watch | India: Five terrorists killed in Kashmir × During his visit to France, Mohammed bin Salman is also scheduled to attend the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact hosted by President Macron on June 22-23. Prior to his arrival in France, MBS left Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, according to the Saudi Royal Court. He owns the Chateau Louis XIV, a modern structure in Versailles that aims to replicate the grandeur of French imperial palaces. The visit underscores Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's accommodation of the demands of influential nations while simultaneously advancing his own aspirations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Macron welcomes Saudi Crown Prince in Paris, will discuss Riyadh’s bid to host World Expo 2030

Ukraine has launched its much-anticipated counteroffensive, Kyiv claims that it has recaptured 7 villages in the Donestk and Zaporizhzhia regions meanwhile French president Emmanuel Macron has said that Ukraine's operations will go on for weeks or months vowing to continue to supply weapons to Ukraine.

Macron re-affirms support to Ukraine

In Pics | French unions protest against pension reform law

Now France has witnessed months of unrest over the controversial pension reform Bill earlier this year but the French government was firm on its priority. Now it has moved one step further by publishing the first two of the 31 decrees of the unpopular pension reform law. The order that is expected to be implemented by September.

France implements unpopular pension reform, orders must be enacted by Septembers

<p>The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (May 31) called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks... to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron said that various NATO members could provide these guarantees to the war-torn nation, Macron said, "We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Latest Russia-Ukraine war development&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN on Wednesday that the Kremlin is concerned about the situation in Belgorod.</p>

<p>Peskov said, "We are indeed concerned about this situation, shelling of civilian objects continues there. In this case, too, by the way, we have not heard a single word of condemnation from anyone from the collective West, so far. The situation is rather alarming. Measures are being taken."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It appears that the war, which majorly remained in Ukrainian territories, is gradually reaching Russia, as recently Belgorod Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that four people were injured in a "massive strike" on the town of Shebekino in Russia's southwestern region.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Gladkov said, "Two were promptly taken to a hospital in Belgorod. The man has shrapnel wounds to the neck and back, the condition is serious, and the woman has shrapnel wounds to the arm and forearm. Doctors are now conducting all the necessary examinations."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin jolted NATO</strong></h2>

<p>While speaking to reporters&nbsp;in Bratislava,&nbsp;Macron said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had jolted NATO awake by invading Ukraine last year. The French president said that he had a "harsh word for NATO in December 2019".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He recalled how he had called the Western defence alliance "brain dead" at the time. He added, "I can say that today Vladimir Putin jolted it awake with the worst of electric shocks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron also said that a European defence structure was "indispensable" for the bloc's credibility in the long-term. He said, "A Europe of defence, a European pillar within NATO, is indispensable. It's the only way to be credible... in the long-term."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also added that it was "up to us Europeans to in the future have our own ability to defend ourselves."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles.

The ongoing Ukraine war continues to escalate with the recent Russian aggression, with Western calls to provide Kyiv with advanced weapons and long-range missiles. Now, French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday (May 31) called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees. He added, "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks... to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine." Macron said that various NATO members could provide these guarantees to the war-torn nation, Macron said, "We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership." Latest Russia-Ukraine war development Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN on Wednesday that the Kremlin is concerned about the situation in Belgorod. Peskov said, "We are indeed concerned about this situation, shelling of civilian objects continues there. In this case, too, by the way, we have not heard a single word of condemnation from anyone from the collective West, so far. The situation is rather alarming. Measures are being taken." It appears that the war, which majorly remained in Ukrainian territories, is gradually reaching Russia, as recently Belgorod Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that four people were injured in a "massive strike" on the town of Shebekino in Russia's southwestern region. Gladkov said, "Two were promptly taken to a hospital in Belgorod. The man has shrapnel wounds to the neck and back, the condition is serious, and the woman has shrapnel wounds to the arm and forearm. Doctors are now conducting all the necessary examinations." Putin jolted NATO While speaking to reporters in Bratislava, Macron said that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had jolted NATO awake by invading Ukraine last year. The French president said that he had a "harsh word for NATO in December 2019". He recalled how he had called the Western defence alliance "brain dead" at the time. He added, "I can say that today Vladimir Putin jolted it awake with the worst of electric shocks." Macron also said that a European defence structure was "indispensable" for the bloc's credibility in the long-term. He said, "A Europe of defence, a European pillar within NATO, is indispensable. It's the only way to be credible... in the long-term." He also added that it was "up to us Europeans to in the future have our own ability to defend ourselves." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Macron calls on West to offer Ukraine 'tangible and credible' security guarantees

<p>Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about&nbsp;120 billboards in Avignon city depicting&nbsp;Macron in a suit and moustache. The caricature posters bore digits "49.3" and greying hair. The numbers pertain to an article&nbsp;of the Constitution that was utilised to pass pension reform legislation in the National Assembly.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>Photos from the daily newspaper La Provence show the phrase&nbsp;"No thank you" and the hashtag #agirousubir (act or suffer) surrounding the image of Macron, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lekto and Macron-Hitler fiasco&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The 30 posters were reproductions of a mural of French President Emmanuel Macron painted by a local street artist named Lekto that was put up on an electrical transformer along a major road in Avignon in April.&nbsp;The posters were taken down at the time and now they are seen on prominent billboards close to the town hall, the prefecture, and the railroad station.</p>

<p>In 2022, Letko is alleged to have painted a mural, that has since been removed, which showed Macron as the puppet of the Jewish political consultant Jacques Attali. Authorities regarded it as being anti-Semitic. "How far will they go in the indignity and abjectness? It is high time to sanction in the most severe way possible those who engage in such odious campaigns," tweeted the president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region, Renaud Muselier.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288">PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima</a></p>

<p>Avignon's town hall&nbsp;announced that it will lodge a complaint and that the police had been called in to take down the posters. Whosoever has put up the posters, according to the prosecution, would face fines of €12,000 for insulting the president as well as two months in jail and €7,500 in fines for inciting rebellion.</p>

<h2><strong>France Pension reforms&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>France witnessed a series of demonstrations and social unrest in response to the proposed changes to the country's pension system. The pension reform was a key policy agenda of President Emmanuel Macron's government.&nbsp;Under the reforms, the government increased the legal retirement age from 62 to 64.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester?</strong></p>

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<p>The reforms, as per Macron government, aimed to align the retirement age with increasing life expectancy, encouraging people to work longer before accessing their pensions. The changes were intended to ensure the financial viability of the pension system.&nbsp;</p>

<h1><strong>Charlie Hebdo caricatures&nbsp;</strong></h1>

<p>Caricature controversies are not new in France. The Charlie Hebdo caricatures, a series of satirical cartoons published by the French magazine Charlie Hebdo, depicting the Islamic prophet Muhammad led to widespread controversy and backlash.</p>

<p>Many Muslims found these cartoons offensive and disrespectful. The publication of the caricatures sparked protests, debates on freedom of speech, and discussions about the boundaries of satire and religious sensitivity.</p>

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Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about 120 billboards in Avignon city depicting Macron in a suit and moustache.

Police in France's Avignon city are looking into several posters that depict French President Emmanuel Macron as Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. As many as 30 posters were placed on about 120 billboards in Avignon city depicting Macron in a suit and moustache. The caricature posters bore digits "49.3" and greying hair. The numbers pertain to an article of the Constitution that was utilised to pass pension reform legislation in the National Assembly. Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued Photos from the daily newspaper La Provence show the phrase "No thank you" and the hashtag #agirousubir (act or suffer) surrounding the image of Macron, as per reports. Lekto and Macron-Hitler fiasco The 30 posters were reproductions of a mural of French President Emmanuel Macron painted by a local street artist named Lekto that was put up on an electrical transformer along a major road in Avignon in April. The posters were taken down at the time and now they are seen on prominent billboards close to the town hall, the prefecture, and the railroad station. In 2022, Letko is alleged to have painted a mural, that has since been removed, which showed Macron as the puppet of the Jewish political consultant Jacques Attali. Authorities regarded it as being anti-Semitic. "How far will they go in the indignity and abjectness? It is high time to sanction in the most severe way possible those who engage in such odious campaigns," tweeted the president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region, Renaud Muselier. Also Read | PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima Avignon's town hall announced that it will lodge a complaint and that the police had been called in to take down the posters. Whosoever has put up the posters, according to the prosecution, would face fines of €12,000 for insulting the president as well as two months in jail and €7,500 in fines for inciting rebellion. France Pension reforms France witnessed a series of demonstrations and social unrest in response to the proposed changes to the country's pension system. The pension reform was a key policy agenda of President Emmanuel Macron's government. Under the reforms, the government increased the legal retirement age from 62 to 64. Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester? × The reforms, as per Macron government, aimed to align the retirement age with increasing life expectancy, encouraging people to work longer before accessing their pensions. The changes were intended to ensure the financial viability of the pension system. Charlie Hebdo caricatures Caricature controversies are not new in France. The Charlie Hebdo caricatures, a series of satirical cartoons published by the French magazine Charlie Hebdo, depicting the Islamic prophet Muhammad led to widespread controversy and backlash. Many Muslims found these cartoons offensive and disrespectful. The publication of the caricatures sparked protests, debates on freedom of speech, and discussions about the boundaries of satire and religious sensitivity. 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. ×

Posters depicting Macron as Hitler found on 120 billboards in France’s Avignon city, cops initiate probe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in France. The visit is part of his efforts to get all the support from the European nations ahead of an anticipated counter-offensive, prior to this in the Ukrainian President had stopped by in Italy and Germany as well.

Ukrainian President Zelensky in France, Paris to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv | WION

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned protesters banging saucepans and pots during his speeches, saying that such actions will not help France move forward. Pot-banging is an old tradition in France to register protests, and it was seen during Macron's recent address to the nation after he signed the pension reform bill into law over the weekend. Macron said that the reality across France was not just those making noise with pots or grumbling.</p>

<h2><strong>Macron tours rural France to calm the tensions</strong></h2>

<p>Political opponents and trade unions have urged protesters to bolster their campaign against the law, and a new day of mass protest has been called for on May 1. Macron has been touring the country hoping to calm the tensions and turn the page on his unpopular pension reform, which provides for hiking the retirement age from 62 to 64.</p>

<p><strong>Watch</strong>:&nbsp;<strong>France pension reforms: Emmanuel Macron to address France amid pension chaos&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>During his visit to the wood factory in Muttersholtz on Wednesday, Macron also said that he would always be with people and that he has to keep going. He made very few public appearances during the three months after announcing the deeply unpopular pension reform.</p>

<p>Wednesday saw massive protests by members of Confédération Générale du Travail (CGT) and Confédération Française Démocratique du Travail (CFDT) trade unions in front of the mayor’s office in Muttersholtz, where the French President began his tour of rural France. The objective of his tour is to gain acceptance of&nbsp;his pension reforms.</p>

<h2><strong>Police and demonstrators come face to face</strong></h2>

<p>Demonstrators were seen banging frying pans as well as pan lids and horns. The pension reform signed into law by Macron has been the subject of fury and protests for the past three months. The government used an executive order to push through the law, bypassing a vote in parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-macron-says-he-hears-peoples-anger-but-defends-pension-law-583545">French President Macron says he hears people's anger but defends pension law</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite Macron's efforts to calm tensions, sporadic protests have continued in Paris and other cities, with small groups gathering at night and burning bins after dark. Following massive protests on Wednesday, French police had to use force to move protestors 200 metres away from the village where Macron was visiting.</p>

<h2><strong>Unions and workers to boost anti-govt protests</strong></h2>

<p>As Macron makes further visits across the country this week, unions have planned more protests. These scenes are reminiscent of the president’s travels around France during the yellow-vest protests of 2018-19 when Macron was frequently confronted by angry hecklers. The next nationwide trade union-led demonstrations will be on Labor Day on May 1.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a free climber known as the "French Spiderman" climbed a 38-story skyscraper in Paris to protest the raising of the pension age. Alain Robert, 60, climbed without a harness, using only his bare hands and a pair of climbing shoes. "I’m here to show my support for those who oppose the pension reform," he said before starting his ascent of the 150-metre skyscraper in the capital’s La Défense business district.</p>

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French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned protesters banging saucepans and pots during his speeches, saying that such actions will not help France move forward.

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned protesters banging saucepans and pots during his speeches, saying that such actions will not help France move forward. Pot-banging is an old tradition in France to register protests, and it was seen during Macron's recent address to the nation after he signed the pension reform bill into law over the weekend. Macron said that the reality across France was not just those making noise with pots or grumbling. Macron tours rural France to calm the tensions Political opponents and trade unions have urged protesters to bolster their campaign against the law, and a new day of mass protest has been called for on May 1. Macron has been touring the country hoping to calm the tensions and turn the page on his unpopular pension reform, which provides for hiking the retirement age from 62 to 64. Watch: France pension reforms: Emmanuel Macron to address France amid pension chaos × During his visit to the wood factory in Muttersholtz on Wednesday, Macron also said that he would always be with people and that he has to keep going. He made very few public appearances during the three months after announcing the deeply unpopular pension reform. Wednesday saw massive protests by members of Confédération Générale du Travail (CGT) and Confédération Française Démocratique du Travail (CFDT) trade unions in front of the mayor’s office in Muttersholtz, where the French President began his tour of rural France. The objective of his tour is to gain acceptance of his pension reforms. Police and demonstrators come face to face Demonstrators were seen banging frying pans as well as pan lids and horns. The pension reform signed into law by Macron has been the subject of fury and protests for the past three months. The government used an executive order to push through the law, bypassing a vote in parliament. Also Read | French President Macron says he hears people's anger but defends pension law Despite Macron's efforts to calm tensions, sporadic protests have continued in Paris and other cities, with small groups gathering at night and burning bins after dark. Following massive protests on Wednesday, French police had to use force to move protestors 200 metres away from the village where Macron was visiting. Unions and workers to boost anti-govt protests As Macron makes further visits across the country this week, unions have planned more protests. These scenes are reminiscent of the president’s travels around France during the yellow-vest protests of 2018-19 when Macron was frequently confronted by angry hecklers. The next nationwide trade union-led demonstrations will be on Labor Day on May 1. Meanwhile, a free climber known as the "French Spiderman" climbed a 38-story skyscraper in Paris to protest the raising of the pension age. Alain Robert, 60, climbed without a harness, using only his bare hands and a pair of climbing shoes. "I’m here to show my support for those who oppose the pension reform," he said before starting his ascent of the 150-metre skyscraper in the capital’s La Défense business district. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

President Macron condemns saucepan-banging protests as he tours rural France to calm tensions

French Prime Emmanuel Macron is set to address the nation for the first time since the signing of the controversial pension reform into a law. Just hours after the Constitutional Court backed the pension reforms, Macron signed the legislation saying, the law is a huge setback for the protesters.

France pension reforms: Left leader vows to continue the fight

President Emmanuel Macron's signing of the pension reform into law has set France on fire. Unprecedented numbers of protests are still being seen in France. Despite fierce opposition, macron chose to sign the measure, and the issue has since been brought under control.

France: Protests against pension law continue

The French president has promulgated his pension reform into law. The move comes just hours after the court cleared Emmanuel Macron to raise the retirement age. French unions have called for historic strike action.

Macron promulgates his pension reform into law | Changes penalise women and unskilled workers?

Macron: Changes necessary, must avoid annual pension deficits

After three months of political and social crisis in France, all eyes are on the country’s Constitutional Council ahead of its ruling on whether President Emmanuel Macron’s contested plan to raise the retirement age is constitutional.

France looks on with bated breath as its Constitutional Council rules on Macron’s pension reform

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark has split the west. Should European nations chalk their own path & stop following Washington's instructions? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark splits the West

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark has split the west. It triggered strong reactions from European politicians. Macron has never been shy making controversial statements and while the idea that Europe should stand on its own feet has been widely endorsed before, suggestions that they should distance themselves from the US, has bee termed by some as impractical and unrealistic.

French President Emmanuel Macron's 'vassal' comment rile EU partners

France's top constitutional body was expected to rule Friday on whether President Emmanuel Macron’s contested plan to raise the retirement age passes muster, a decision that could calm or further enrage opponents of the measure.

France awaits constitutional ruling on higher retirement age

Gravitas: Macron's 'allies not vassals' remark splits West

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Ex-UK PM criticizes Macron and EU chief's China visit; Massive fire at Indiana recycling plant. Watch to know more.

Ex-UK PM criticizes Macron's China visit; Massive fire at Indiana recycling plant

Taiwan has lived for decades under constant threat of an invasion by China. Beijing claims Taiwan as a part of its territory to be seized one day, even by force if required. However, many Taiwanese people consider their self-ruled island to be distinct - whether or not independence is ever officially declared. Now, French president Macron has said France won't be a US Vassal on Taiwan. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically governed island under its control. Beijing plans to control strategic choke points and deny access to foreign forces. Some analysts say Macron is seeking to safeguard French interests in the Asia-pacific region. Paris sees itself as a player in the Asia-pacific, due to its overseas territories and military deployments.

Macron backs 'One China'; Paris has overseas territories & military deployments in Asia-Pacific

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