<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-rejects-new-deal-proposal-by-french-president-macron-133060">Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> said on Saturday (April 28) that demands by U.S President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable.

Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend U. sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-iranian-diplomats-to-discuss-iran-nuclear-deal-this-saturday-133101">Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov</a> and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif will be discussing the Iran nuclear deal on Saturday. The meeting comes in the wake of the US and French threat to scrap the deal.

The meeting comes on the sidelines of an extraordinary trilateral meeting of Russian, Iranian and Turkish foreign ministers on April 28 in Moscow. The trilateral talks will primarily focus on Syria.

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New US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump has not taken a decision on whether to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal but was not likely to keep to it without substantial changes.

"There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference after a NATO meeting of foreign ministers.&nbsp

"Absent a substantial fix, absent overcoming the flaws of the deal, he is unlikely to stay in that deal," Pompeo said.

French President Macron <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-face-severe-consequences-if-nuclear-deal-not-accepted-iran-president-132538">and President Trump today </a>discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal".

Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal",&nbsp"insane" and "ridiculous".
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Trump has said that unless European allies fix the 'terrible flaws' in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend U.S. sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday (April 28) that demands by U.S President Donald Trump to change Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers were unacceptable. Trump has said that unless European allies fix the "terrible flaws" in the Iran nuclear deal by May 12, he will refuse to extend U. sanctions relief for oil-producing Iran. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif will be discussing the Iran nuclear deal on Saturday. The meeting comes in the wake of the US and French threat to scrap the deal. The meeting comes on the sidelines of an extraordinary trilateral meeting of Russian, Iranian and Turkish foreign ministers on April 28 in Moscow. The trilateral talks will primarily focus on Syria. New US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump has not taken a decision on whether to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal but was not likely to keep to it without substantial changes. "There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference after a NATO meeting of foreign ministers. "Absent a substantial fix, absent overcoming the flaws of the deal, he is unlikely to stay in that deal," Pompeo said. French President Macron and President Trump today discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal". Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal", "insane" and "ridiculous".

Iran's Zarif says Trump demands on nuclear deal are unacceptable

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/asaram-appeared-broken-after-conviction-kept-telling-lawyers-to-do-something-132868">Asaram appeared broken after conviction, kept telling lawyers to 'do something': Jail officials</a>

Asaram was on Wednesday found guilty of raping a teenage girl at his ashram near Jodhpur in 2013. The sentence was passed inside Jodhpur Central Jail — where Asaram has been lodged since 2013 — itself.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-hugs-and-kisses-macron-tears-into-trump-says-forget-america-first-make-our-planet-great-again-132863">After hugs and kisses, Macron tears into Trump. Says forget America First, 'make our planet great again'</a>

A day after flaunting his friendship with Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron forcefully challenged many of the US president's policies on Wednesday, urging the United States to engage more with the world, step up the fight against climate change and stay in the Iran nuclear pact for now.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/train-collides-with-school-van-in-up-11-children-dead-132871">Train collides with school van in UP, 13 children dead</a>

Thirteen schoolchildren have died in Uttar Pradesh after a train collided with the van they were travelling in.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-announce-spring-offensive-dismisses-peace-overtures-132858">Taliban announce spring offensive, dismisses peace overtures</a>

The Taliban announced the start of its annual spring offensive on Wednesday, dismissing an offer for peace talks by President Ashraf Ghani and saying it will focus on U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/now-elon-musk-wants-to-build-a-cyborg-dragon-132864">Elon Musk's next project? He says he's 'building a cyborg dragon'</a>

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk never fails to take the world by surprise and his latest Twitter post seems to have reinstated the same. Earlier today Musk announced his latest project, a 'cyborg dragon'.&nbsp

Asaram appeared broken after conviction, kept telling lawyers to 'do something': Jail officials Asaram was on Wednesday found guilty of raping a teenage girl at his ashram near Jodhpur in 2013. The sentence was passed inside Jodhpur Central Jail — where Asaram has been lodged since 2013 — itself. After hugs and kisses, Macron tears into Trump. Says forget America First, 'make our planet great again' A day after flaunting his friendship with Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron forcefully challenged many of the US president's policies on Wednesday, urging the United States to engage more with the world, step up the fight against climate change and stay in the Iran nuclear pact for now. Train collides with school van in UP, 13 children dead Thirteen schoolchildren have died in Uttar Pradesh after a train collided with the van they were travelling in. Taliban announce spring offensive, dismisses peace overtures The Taliban announced the start of its annual spring offensive on Wednesday, dismissing an offer for peace talks by President Ashraf Ghani and saying it will focus on U.S. forces in Afghanistan. Elon Musk's next project? He says he's 'building a cyborg dragon' SpaceX CEO Elon Musk never fails to take the world by surprise and his latest Twitter post seems to have reinstated the same. Earlier today Musk announced his latest project, a 'cyborg dragon'.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme.

At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the U.S. president says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous.

"This is a deal with decayed foundations," Trump said. "It's a bad deal. It's falling down."

With a May 12 deadline looming for Trump to decide on restoring US&nbsp;economic sanctions on Tehran, Macron said he spoke to Trump about a "new deal" in which the United States and Europe would address the outstanding concerns about Iran beyond its nuclear programme.

Macron is using a three-day state visit to the United States, in a high-stakes bid to salvage the Iran nuclear deal, which many in the West see as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East.

Under Macron's proposal, the United States and Europe would agree to block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran's ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.

It was unclear whether Macron made substantial progress in his efforts to prevent Trump from pulling out of the 2015 deal, and Trump stressed there would be repercussions should Iran restart its nuclear programme.

"If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid," Trump said.

But Trump said, "We will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, 'maybe deal, maybe not' deal." The French believe progress had been made.

“What was important and new this morning was that President Trump was OK with putting on the table, with France, the idea of a new agreement that should be proposed to and worked on with the Iranians," a French official said.

It was unclear what this would mean for the fate of the 2015 accord and whether the other countries such as China and Russia that signed it would agree to any new measures against Iran.

A source familiar with the internal debate at the White House said one option under discussion was giving Europe more time to toughen the current Iran deal's terms.

Iran has said it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses and a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday that Tehran might quit a treaty designed to stop the spread of nuclear weapons if Trump scraps the agreement.

BACK SLAPPING

Trump and Macron have developed a remarkably strong relationship at a time when many European leaders have kept a certain distance from Trump.

On Tuesday evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power in January, 2017. Macron's visit will be followed by one on Friday from German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Trump, 71, and Macron, 40, were remarkably chummy, repeatedly shaking hands, slapping each other's backs and extolling each other's friendship.

At one point Trump brushed dandruff from Macron's suit coat, saying: "We have to make him perfect -- he is perfect.”

Macron hopes to leverage their friendship into progress on not only Iran but exempting Europe from steel tariffs, and protecting the 2016 Paris climate accord.

Their talks also covered the U.S. presence in Syria weeks after the United States, France and Britain launched airstrikes in retaliation for a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Trump wants to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria, believing Islamic State militants are largely defeated, but Macron and other allies argue they should stay to ensure militants do not resurface and to block Iran from strengthening its foothold there.

Macron urged Trump to keep U.S. forces in Syria for the time being.

Trump did not promise to leave the troops in Syria but made clear they would not be withdrawn imminently.

"We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint," Trump said.

The two leaders also discussed European calls for exemptions from Trump's plan for 25 percent tariffs on steel imports. Trump said chronic trade deficits with U.S. allies around the world are "unacceptable."

'If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid,' Trump said at joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron who is trying to get Trump to agree to a new deal on Iran's nuclear programme

US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme. At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the U.S. president says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous. "This is a deal with decayed foundations," Trump said. "It's a bad deal. It's falling down." With a May 12 deadline looming for Trump to decide on restoring US economic sanctions on Tehran, Macron said he spoke to Trump about a "new deal" in which the United States and Europe would address the outstanding concerns about Iran beyond its nuclear programme. Macron is using a three-day state visit to the United States, in a high-stakes bid to salvage the Iran nuclear deal, which many in the West see as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Under Macron's proposal, the United States and Europe would agree to block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran's ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon. It was unclear whether Macron made substantial progress in his efforts to prevent Trump from pulling out of the 2015 deal, and Trump stressed there would be repercussions should Iran restart its nuclear programme. "If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid," Trump said. But Trump said, "We will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, 'maybe deal, maybe not' deal." The French believe progress had been made. “What was important and new this morning was that President Trump was OK with putting on the table, with France, the idea of a new agreement that should be proposed to and worked on with the Iranians," a French official said. It was unclear what this would mean for the fate of the 2015 accord and whether the other countries such as China and Russia that signed it would agree to any new measures against Iran. A source familiar with the internal debate at the White House said one option under discussion was giving Europe more time to toughen the current Iran deal's terms. Iran has said it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses and a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday that Tehran might quit a treaty designed to stop the spread of nuclear weapons if Trump scraps the agreement. BACK SLAPPING Trump and Macron have developed a remarkably strong relationship at a time when many European leaders have kept a certain distance from Trump. On Tuesday evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power in January, 2017. Macron's visit will be followed by one on Friday from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Trump, 71, and Macron, 40, were remarkably chummy, repeatedly shaking hands, slapping each other's backs and extolling each other's friendship. At one point Trump brushed dandruff from Macron's suit coat, saying: "We have to make him perfect -- he is perfect.” Macron hopes to leverage their friendship into progress on not only Iran but exempting Europe from steel tariffs, and protecting the 2016 Paris climate accord. Their talks also covered the U.S. presence in Syria weeks after the United States, France and Britain launched airstrikes in retaliation for a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Trump wants to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria, believing Islamic State militants are largely defeated, but Macron and other allies argue they should stay to ensure militants do not resurface and to block Iran from strengthening its foothold there. Macron urged Trump to keep U.S. forces in Syria for the time being. Trump did not promise to leave the troops in Syria but made clear they would not be withdrawn imminently. "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint," Trump said. The two leaders also discussed European calls for exemptions from Trump's plan for 25 percent tariffs on steel imports. Trump said chronic trade deficits with U.S. allies around the world are "unacceptable."

Will pay a price few countries have: Trump threatens Iran with retaliation if it restarts nuclear programme

French President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-brushes-dandruff-off-perfect-macron-132660">Emmanuel Macron received a standing </a>ovation by US lawmakers as he addressed the joint session of the US Congress urging&nbsp;the Trump administration to help "preserve and reinvent multilateralism".

The French president spoke on various issues including the "new" Iran deal, climate change and trade wars.

Macron was given a three-minute standing ovation in the US Congress as he started his speech, the French president said: "Our objective is clear, Iran shall never possess any nuclear weapons. Not now. Not in five years. Not in 10 years. Never."

Macron who is on a three-day visit to the US, said: "The United States' involvement as your role was decisive for creating and guarding today's free world. The United States is the one who invented this multilateralism. You are the one now who has to help preserve and reinvent it."

"Whatever the decision of the United States will be, we will not leave the floor to the actions of rogues. We will not leave the floor to this conflict of powers in the Middle East," Macron told the Congress.

"I think we can work together to build this comprehensive deal for the whole region, for our people, because I think it fairly addresses our concerns," he said.

On the contentious issue of climate change, Macron said: "Let us face it. There is no Planet B."

"We have disagreements between the United States and France. It may happen, like in all families," he said -- but such differences would be short-term," he insisted.

"We're just citizens of the same planet," Macron said.

The French president said that free and fair trade was the need of the hour.

"We need a free and fair trade, for sure," Macron said.

"A commercial war opposing allies is not consistent with our mission, with our history, with our current commitments for global security," he added.

The French president spoke on various issues including the "new" Iran deal, climate change and trade wars.

French President Emmanuel Macron received a standing ovation by US lawmakers as he addressed the joint session of the US Congress urging the Trump administration to help "preserve and reinvent multilateralism". The French president spoke on various issues including the "new" Iran deal, climate change and trade wars. Macron was given a three-minute standing ovation in the US Congress as he started his speech, the French president said: "Our objective is clear, Iran shall never possess any nuclear weapons. Not now. Not in five years. Not in 10 years. Never." Macron who is on a three-day visit to the US, said: "The United States' involvement as your role was decisive for creating and guarding today's free world. The United States is the one who invented this multilateralism. You are the one now who has to help preserve and reinvent it." "Whatever the decision of the United States will be, we will not leave the floor to the actions of rogues. We will not leave the floor to this conflict of powers in the Middle East," Macron told the Congress. "I think we can work together to build this comprehensive deal for the whole region, for our people, because I think it fairly addresses our concerns," he said. On the contentious issue of climate change, Macron said: "Let us face it. There is no Planet B." "We have disagreements between the United States and France. It may happen, like in all families," he said -- but such differences would be short-term," he insisted. "We're just citizens of the same planet," Macron said. The French president said that free and fair trade was the need of the hour. "We need a free and fair trade, for sure," Macron said. "A commercial war opposing allies is not consistent with our mission, with our history, with our current commitments for global security," he added.

US should help preserve and reinvent  multilateralism: Macron to US lawmakers

French President Macron <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-face-severe-consequences-if-nuclear-deal-not-accepted-iran-president-132538">and President Trump today </a>discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal".

Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal",&nbsp"insane" and "ridiculous".

Iran has threatened to hit back at the US if Trump decides to do away with the deal, a decision which must be reached by May 12th.

"I can say that we have had very frank discussions on that, just the two of us," Macron said at the press conference with Trump, adding, "we, therefore, wish from now on to work on a new deal with Iran."

"I think we will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, maybe, deal," Trump said.

"This is a deal with decayed foundations. It's a bad deal, it's a bad structure. It's falling down," Trump added.&nbsp

"We're going to see what happens on the 12th," the US president added.

Trump said he and Macron could have an agreement soon on the Iran deal.&nbsp

"We could have at least an agreement among ourselves very quickly. I think we're fairly close to understanding each other," the US president said.

Macron had earlier supported the Iran deal asserting that it allowed the countries monitoring it a realistic chance to keep Tehran's nuclear ambition under control.

He had told Trump the Iran accord is part of a "broader picture" of security in the region which included the volatile situation in Syria.

On Syria, Trump said: "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint, and that was a very big part of our discussion."

The US president also said that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/guWM1TOPHg4" width="560"></iframe>

Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal", "insane" and "ridiculous".

French President Macron and President Trump today discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal". Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal", "insane" and "ridiculous". Iran has threatened to hit back at the US if Trump decides to do away with the deal, a decision which must be reached by May 12th. "I can say that we have had very frank discussions on that, just the two of us," Macron said at the press conference with Trump, adding, "we, therefore, wish from now on to work on a new deal with Iran." "I think we will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, maybe, deal," Trump said. "This is a deal with decayed foundations. It's a bad deal, it's a bad structure. It's falling down," Trump added. "We're going to see what happens on the 12th," the US president added. Trump said he and Macron could have an agreement soon on the Iran deal. "We could have at least an agreement among ourselves very quickly. I think we're fairly close to understanding each other," the US president said. Macron had earlier supported the Iran deal asserting that it allowed the countries monitoring it a realistic chance to keep Tehran's nuclear ambition under control. He had told Trump the Iran accord is part of a "broader picture" of security in the region which included the volatile situation in Syria. On Syria, Trump said: "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint, and that was a very big part of our discussion." The US president also said that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly.

'Wish to work on new nuclear deal with Iran,' says Macron after meeting Trump

Turkey's ties with Russia are too strong to be broken by France's president, foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday, after Emmanuel Macron said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia.

At a joint news conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Ankara, Cavusoglu added that Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with NATO, France and the United States.

Macron had said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia.

Turkey's ties with Russia are too strong to be broken by France's president, foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday, after Emmanuel Macron said Ankara's support of missile strikes on Syria showed it had "separated" from Russia. At a joint news conference with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Ankara, Cavusoglu added that Turkey's relations with Russia were not an alternative to its ties with NATO, France and the United States.

Our ties with Russia too strong to be broken by Macron: Turkey

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said he had convinced U.S. President Donald Trump to keep troops in Syria for the long term and limit joint strikes to chemical weapons facilities.

Early on Saturday, the United States, France and Britain launched 105 missiles targeting what they said were three chemical weapons facilities in Syria in retaliation for a suspected poison gas attack in Douma on April 7.

"Ten days ago, President Trump was saying 'the United States should withdraw from Syria'. We convinced him it was necessary to stay," Macron said in an interview broadcast by BFM TV, RMC radio and Mediapart online news.

"We convinced him it was necessary to stay for the long term."

The United States, Britain and France said they only hit Syria's chemical weapons capabilities and the strikes were not aimed at toppling Syrian President Bashar al-Assad or intervening in the civil war.

Limiting the strikes to these specific targets was not necessarily Trump's initial plan, Macron said.

"We also persuaded him that we needed to limit the strikes to chemical weapons (sites), after things got a little carried away over tweets," he said.

While it is unusual for a French president to present himself as driving U.S. policy in military matters in the Middle East, Macron and Trump have developed a friendly relationship over the past year.

Macron invited Trump to assist to Bastille day celebrations last year and will travel to Washington on a state visit later this month.

Saturday's strikes on Syria were the first major military operation since Macron's election in May last year.

He reaffirmed that there was proof of chemical attacks, adding: "We had reached a point where these strikes were necessary to give back the (international) community some credibility."

Macron said that failing so far to get the red lines respected had led Russian authorities to think of Western powers that "these people from the international community - they are nice, they are weak".

"He (Russian President Vladimir Putin) has understood it's not the case anymore."

Macron added that Russia, which backs Assad politically and militarily, had made itself complicit in the Syrian government's actions.

"Of course they are complicit. They have not used chlorine themselves but they have methodically built the international community's inability to act through diplomatic channels to stop the use of chemical weapons," he said of Russia.

The French president nevertheless said he wanted to engage in dialogue with all parties involved, including Moscow, in order to find a political solution for Syria. There are no changes to his planned trip to Russia next month, he said.

Macron had warmer words for Turkey. "With those strikes we have separated the Russians and the Turks on this. The Turks condemned the chemical weapons."

Macron added that the strikes on Syria had been "perfectly carried out".

"All of our missiles reached their target," he said.

Macron, criticised by the far-left and far-right and part of the conservatives over the attacks, said France, Britain and the United States had "complete international legitimacy to act."

Macron said limiting the strikes to specific targets was not necessarily Trump's initial plan

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said he had convinced U.S. President Donald Trump to keep troops in Syria for the long term and limit joint strikes to chemical weapons facilities. Early on Saturday, the United States, France and Britain launched 105 missiles targeting what they said were three chemical weapons facilities in Syria in retaliation for a suspected poison gas attack in Douma on April 7. "Ten days ago, President Trump was saying 'the United States should withdraw from Syria'. We convinced him it was necessary to stay," Macron said in an interview broadcast by BFM TV, RMC radio and Mediapart online news. "We convinced him it was necessary to stay for the long term." The United States, Britain and France said they only hit Syria's chemical weapons capabilities and the strikes were not aimed at toppling Syrian President Bashar al-Assad or intervening in the civil war. Limiting the strikes to these specific targets was not necessarily Trump's initial plan, Macron said. "We also persuaded him that we needed to limit the strikes to chemical weapons (sites), after things got a little carried away over tweets," he said. While it is unusual for a French president to present himself as driving U.S. policy in military matters in the Middle East, Macron and Trump have developed a friendly relationship over the past year. Macron invited Trump to assist to Bastille day celebrations last year and will travel to Washington on a state visit later this month. Saturday's strikes on Syria were the first major military operation since Macron's election in May last year. He reaffirmed that there was proof of chemical attacks, adding: "We had reached a point where these strikes were necessary to give back the (international) community some credibility." Macron said that failing so far to get the red lines respected had led Russian authorities to think of Western powers that "these people from the international community - they are nice, they are weak". "He (Russian President Vladimir Putin) has understood it's not the case anymore." Macron added that Russia, which backs Assad politically and militarily, had made itself complicit in the Syrian government's actions. "Of course they are complicit. They have not used chlorine themselves but they have methodically built the international community's inability to act through diplomatic channels to stop the use of chemical weapons," he said of Russia. The French president nevertheless said he wanted to engage in dialogue with all parties involved, including Moscow, in order to find a political solution for Syria. There are no changes to his planned trip to Russia next month, he said. Macron had warmer words for Turkey. "With those strikes we have separated the Russians and the Turks on this. The Turks condemned the chemical weapons." Macron added that the strikes on Syria had been "perfectly carried out". "All of our missiles reached their target," he said. Macron, criticised by the far-left and far-right and part of the conservatives over the attacks, said France, Britain and the United States had "complete international legitimacy to act."

France's Macron says he convinced Trump to keep troops in Syria

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104">Inflation falls for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104">third</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/inflation-falls-for-third-straight-month-is-at-428-in-march-130104"> straight month, is at 4.28% in March</a>

Retail inflation slowed to 4.28 per cent in March, the third consecutive month of decline, mainly on account of easing food prices including vegetables, government data showed today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-star-shuttler-kidambi-srikanth-is-new-world-no-1-130094">Indian star shuttler Kidambi Srikanth is new World No. 1</a>

Kidambi Srikanth reached the top of men's singles rankings with 76895 points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) chart which was released today. He became the first Indian shuttler to achieve the number one rank in the modern ranking system. Though legendary Indian shuttler Prakash Padukone had reached the number one spot in 1980 but at that time computerized ranking system was not implemented.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089">'Laziness, incompetence' of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089">previous</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/laziness-incompetence-hidden-motives-of-previous-govt-hurt-indias-defence-modi-130089"> govt hurt India's defence: Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hit out at the previous UPA government for "policy paralysis" in the defence sector and told foreign companies that it will not take a decade to take a decision on procurement of a batch of 110 fighter jets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-could-face-us-aid-cuts-over-human-trafficking-sources-130086">Pakistan could face US aid cuts over human trafficking: Sources</a>

The Trump administration is warning Pakistan it could lose US civilian aid worth tens of millions of dollars this year if Washington finds that the South Asian nation has not done enough to combat human trafficking, US officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-says-has-proof-assad-regime-behind-syria-chemical-attack-130110">Macron says has 'proof' Assad regime behind Syria chemical attack</a>

Speaking to a television interview France President Emmanuel Macron has admitted to having proof about the Syrian government using chemical weapons on its civilians.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Inflation falls for third straight month, is at 4.28% in March Retail inflation slowed to 4.28 per cent in March, the third consecutive month of decline, mainly on account of easing food prices including vegetables, government data showed today. Indian star shuttler Kidambi Srikanth is new World No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth reached the top of men's singles rankings with 76895 points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) chart which was released today. He became the first Indian shuttler to achieve the number one rank in the modern ranking system. Though legendary Indian shuttler Prakash Padukone had reached the number one spot in 1980 but at that time computerized ranking system was not implemented. 'Laziness, incompetence' of previous govt hurt India's defence: Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hit out at the previous UPA government for "policy paralysis" in the defence sector and told foreign companies that it will not take a decade to take a decision on procurement of a batch of 110 fighter jets. Pakistan could face US aid cuts over human trafficking: Sources The Trump administration is warning Pakistan it could lose US civilian aid worth tens of millions of dollars this year if Washington finds that the South Asian nation has not done enough to combat human trafficking, US officials said. Macron says has 'proof' Assad regime behind Syria chemical attack Speaking to a television interview France President Emmanuel Macron has admitted to having proof about the Syrian government using chemical weapons on its civilians.

France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said on Thursday.

Speaking after Macron met a delegation from northern Syria that included the Kurdish YPG militia, Khaled Eissa, a Kurdish official based in Paris, said Macron had promised to send French troops to Manbij to support the fight against Islamic State and dissuade Turkey from advancing on the town.

The president’s office declined to comment on that. 
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France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said

France has offered to mediate between Turkey and the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces, and assured the SDF of Paris’ support in stabilizing northern Syria, President Emmanuel Macron’s office said on Thursday. Speaking after Macron met a delegation from northern Syria that included the Kurdish YPG militia, Khaled Eissa, a Kurdish official based in Paris, said Macron had promised to send French troops to Manbij to support the fight against Islamic State and dissuade Turkey from advancing on the town. The president’s office declined to comment on that.

Syria war: France's Macron offers to mediate between Turkey and Syrian Kurds

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India, today took a boat ride on the Ganga river with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in Varanasi.

President Macron, who visited the Taj Mahal with his wife Brigitte yesterday, was given a traditional welcome with showering of flower petals, a Shehnai recital and chanting of mantras before he took a decked-up boat which ferried him, PM Modi and the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister between Assi and Dashwamedh ghats.

Artistes enacted scenes from Ramleela and the episode of first sermon by Lord Buddha to his five disciples while people gathered in large numbers along the ghats waving flags of India and France.

Between Assi ghat and Dashwamedh ghat where the boat ride culminated, cultural troupes showcased glimpses of Varanasi&#39;s cultural heritage.

Artistes also put up an impressive show before Macron and Modi from the open auditorium of the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Trade Facilitation (DDU) Centre to the ghats. The two leaders walked hand in hand.

From the LBS International Airport, Macron reached the DDU centre where he visited the handloom and handicraft exhibition at the textile museum and witnessed &quot;Chitrakoot&quot;, a play based on Hindu scripture Ramcharitmanas which was staged in the open auditorium. The play showcased the life of Lord Ram during his 14-year exile.

The French President, who arrived to the welcome tune of a &#39;shahnai&#39; at the Deendayal Hastkala Sankul in Badalalpur, evinced a keen interest in the handicrafts and heritage of the culturally-rich city. He was given a live demonstration of the craftsmanship which has earned the city global recognition.

The French president was all the while accompanied by PM Modi who explained to his guest the various craft forms. He was also given a demonstration of how the world-renowned Banarsi saris were weaved.

The carpets of Bhadohi, which form another major industry of the region, also caught the interest the visiting dignitary. The two leaders also sat down briefly for a cultural troupe&#39;s display before leaving for their next destination.

Couplets of the Ramcharitmanas were recited and Ramlila was staged at Tulsi Ghat. The Ram rajyabhishek (anointment of Lord Ram) was performed by traditional artistes under the guidance of chief priest of Sankatmochan Temple, Vishwambhar Nath Mishra.

On reaching Assi Ghat, Macron was given a traditional welcome with showering of petals, a Shehnai recital and chanting of &#39;Shukla Yajurveda&#39; mantras. He was shown the &quot;Pushpak Viman&quot; as sounds of &quot;shankh&quot; (conch shell) and &quot;damru&quot; (pellet drum), and chants of &quot;Har Har Mahadev&quot; reverberated through the air.

Naga Sadhus with &#39;Bhasmi Shringar&#39; were present at Akhada Sri Niranjini Ghat. Recital of Sant Kabir&#39;s poetries were done at Mansarovar Ghat and Banaras Gharanas&#39; Kathak and classical instrumental music were performed at Pandey and Chausatti ghats.

The folk music and dance performances were appreciated by Macron before the end of his boat ride at Dashaswamedh Ghat.

A 50-feet high cutout of Modi and Macron by local artists was put up at the Tulsi Ghat. Posters showing the two leaders waving and the tagline &quot;welcome to the cultural capital of India&quot; dotted the cityscape.

Macron arrived in Varanasi on Monday, where he was received by PM Modi and Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp; 
 
Following the boat ride, Modi and Macron will flag off a train between Maduadih Railway Station in Varanasi, and Patna.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, PM Modi and the French President inaugurated the 75 MW <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-french-president-inaugurate-ups-largest-solar-power-plant-35482">solar power plant in Mirzapur</a>. The largest solar power plant in Uttar Pradesh has been built in collaboration with French solar power giant Engie Solar at Dadar Kala, some 25 kms from Mirzapur under the International Solar Alliance (ISA) programme.

On Sunday, India and France co-hosted the first summit of the International Solar Alliance.

On Saturday, India and France had inked 14 pacts, including in key areas of defence, nuclear energy and protection of classified information besides resolving to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

During a joint press conference, PM Modi asserted that the synergy between the two sides was from land to sky.

(With inputs from PTI) 
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President Macron was given a traditional welcome before he took a decked-up boat which ferried him, PM Modi and the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister between Assi and Dashwamedh ghats

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India, today took a boat ride on the Ganga river with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in Varanasi. President Macron, who visited the Taj Mahal with his wife Brigitte yesterday, was given a traditional welcome with showering of flower petals, a Shehnai recital and chanting of mantras before he took a decked-up boat which ferried him, PM Modi and the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister between Assi and Dashwamedh ghats. Artistes enacted scenes from Ramleela and the episode of first sermon by Lord Buddha to his five disciples while people gathered in large numbers along the ghats waving flags of India and France. Between Assi ghat and Dashwamedh ghat where the boat ride culminated, cultural troupes showcased glimpses of Varanasi's cultural heritage. Artistes also put up an impressive show before Macron and Modi from the open auditorium of the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Trade Facilitation (DDU) Centre to the ghats. The two leaders walked hand in hand. From the LBS International Airport, Macron reached the DDU centre where he visited the handloom and handicraft exhibition at the textile museum and witnessed "Chitrakoot", a play based on Hindu scripture Ramcharitmanas which was staged in the open auditorium. The play showcased the life of Lord Ram during his 14-year exile. The French President, who arrived to the welcome tune of a 'shahnai' at the Deendayal Hastkala Sankul in Badalalpur, evinced a keen interest in the handicrafts and heritage of the culturally-rich city. He was given a live demonstration of the craftsmanship which has earned the city global recognition. The French president was all the while accompanied by PM Modi who explained to his guest the various craft forms. He was also given a demonstration of how the world-renowned Banarsi saris were weaved. The carpets of Bhadohi, which form another major industry of the region, also caught the interest the visiting dignitary. The two leaders also sat down briefly for a cultural troupe's display before leaving for their next destination. Couplets of the Ramcharitmanas were recited and Ramlila was staged at Tulsi Ghat. The Ram rajyabhishek (anointment of Lord Ram) was performed by traditional artistes under the guidance of chief priest of Sankatmochan Temple, Vishwambhar Nath Mishra. On reaching Assi Ghat, Macron was given a traditional welcome with showering of petals, a Shehnai recital and chanting of 'Shukla Yajurveda' mantras. He was shown the "Pushpak Viman" as sounds of "shankh" (conch shell) and "damru" (pellet drum), and chants of "Har Har Mahadev" reverberated through the air. Naga Sadhus with 'Bhasmi Shringar' were present at Akhada Sri Niranjini Ghat. Recital of Sant Kabir's poetries were done at Mansarovar Ghat and Banaras Gharanas' Kathak and classical instrumental music were performed at Pandey and Chausatti ghats. The folk music and dance performances were appreciated by Macron before the end of his boat ride at Dashaswamedh Ghat. A 50-feet high cutout of Modi and Macron by local artists was put up at the Tulsi Ghat. Posters showing the two leaders waving and the tagline "welcome to the cultural capital of India" dotted the cityscape. Macron arrived in Varanasi on Monday, where he was received by PM Modi and Yogi Adityanath. Following the boat ride, Modi and Macron will flag off a train between Maduadih Railway Station in Varanasi, and Patna. Earlier in the day, PM Modi and the French President inaugurated the 75 MW solar power plant in Mirzapur. The largest solar power plant in Uttar Pradesh has been built in collaboration with French solar power giant Engie Solar at Dadar Kala, some 25 kms from Mirzapur under the International Solar Alliance (ISA) programme. On Sunday, India and France co-hosted the first summit of the International Solar Alliance. On Saturday, India and France had inked 14 pacts, including in key areas of defence, nuclear energy and protection of classified information besides resolving to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. During a joint press conference, PM Modi asserted that the synergy between the two sides was from land to sky. (With inputs from PTI)

Macron, Modi, Yogi take boat ride

French President Emmanuel Macron met with Indian students in the Indian capital, New Delhi during his visit to the country on Saturday.

Macron encouraged his audience to pursue higher studies in France and claimed it to be an ideal destination for an education with opportunities in humanities, science, and mathematics where language won&#39;t be a barrier with introduction of a curriculum in English.

Macron, who is on a four-day visit to the country also stressed the importance of solar energy saying that it was the best way of providing opportunities and being complaint with climate change.

Earlier in the day Macron called on the Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and held bilateral talks.

India and France signed contracts worth 13 billion euros ($16 billion) on Saturday including a contract for France&#39;s Safran to supply airline Spice Jet with engines, water system modernisation by Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite. 
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Macron encouraged his audience to pursue higher studies in France and claimed it to be an ideal destination for an education

French President Emmanuel Macron met with Indian students in the Indian capital, New Delhi during his visit to the country on Saturday. Macron encouraged his audience to pursue higher studies in France and claimed it to be an ideal destination for an education with opportunities in humanities, science, and mathematics where language won't be a barrier with introduction of a curriculum in English. Macron, who is on a four-day visit to the country also stressed the importance of solar energy saying that it was the best way of providing opportunities and being complaint with climate change. Earlier in the day Macron called on the Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and held bilateral talks. India and France signed contracts worth 13 billion euros ($16 billion) on Saturday including a contract for France's Safran to supply airline Spice Jet with engines, water system modernisation by Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite.

Study in France, you can learn in English, Emmanuel Macron tells Indian students

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte, who are in a four-day visit to India, toured the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra on Sunday evening.

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The sale of tickets for visitors was closed after 3 pm on Sunday and the monument was shut for public at 4 pm. (ANI)
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The Macrons got a private tour of the Taj Mahal.

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President Macron and his wife Brigitte got a private tour of the Taj Mahal. (ANI)
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Canada&#39;s Justin Trudeau and Israel&#39;s Benjamin Netanyahu also toured the Mughal-era monument during their tour of India this year.

The sale of tickets for visitors was closed after 3 pm on Sunday and the monument was shut for public at 4 pm.

Earlier in the day, the French President announced an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/macron-takes-dig-at-trump-hails-indias-efforts-35402">additional 700 million euros</a> investment for solar-energy at the first International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit in Delhi.

After his visit to Agra, President Macron will head to Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on March 12. He, along with PM Modi, will inaugurate a solar plant in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Mirzapur district.

The Macrons got a private tour of the Taj Mahal.

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte, who are in a four-day visit to India, toured the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra on Sunday evening. The sale of tickets for visitors was closed after 3 pm on Sunday and the monument was shut for public at 4 pm. (ANI) × The Macrons got a private tour of the Taj Mahal. President Macron and his wife Brigitte got a private tour of the Taj Mahal. (ANI) × Canada's Justin Trudeau and Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu also toured the Mughal-era monument during their tour of India this year. The sale of tickets for visitors was closed after 3 pm on Sunday and the monument was shut for public at 4 pm. Earlier in the day, the French President announced an additional 700 million euros investment for solar-energy at the first International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit in Delhi. After his visit to Agra, President Macron will head to Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on March 12. He, along with PM Modi, will inaugurate a solar plant in Uttar Pradesh's Mirzapur district.

In pictures: French president Macron, wife visit Taj Mahal

France and Indian companies signed contracts worth 13 billion euros ($16 billion) on the first day of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/french-president-meets-pm-modi-at-hyderabad-house-35298">President Emmanuel Macron&#39;s visit </a>to India on Saturday, the French president said in a statement.

After a 90-minute long meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron followed by delegation-level talks between the two sides, 14 agreements have been signed between India and France. This is followed by the joint press statement by the two leaders, reports said.

The deals include a contract for France&#39;s Safran to supply SpiceJet with engines, water system modernisation by Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite.

Macron&#39;s office did not provide a breakdown of the contracts&#39; values or details about the deals. It said some 200 million euros of investments will be made in India.

A so-called &quot;Industrial Way Forward Agreement&quot; was signed between French utility EDF and India&#39;s NPCIL for the construction of six nuclear reactors at Jaitapur. Negotiations over the construction of next-generation nuclear reactors in India have been dragging on for years.

It was not immediately clear whether these were firm contracts or letters of intent.

Macron, who is currently on four-day India tour from March 9 to 12, was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday morning as he met president Ram Nath Kovind.

Accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron and M.J. Akbar, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Macron visited Rajghat and paid his tribute at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi on Saturday.

President Macron also met Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj this morning. &quot;They exchanged views on enhancing strategic partnership in trade and investment, defence and security, culture, education and people-to-people ties,&quot; tweeted Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

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The deals include a contract for France's Safran to supply SpiceJet with engines, water system modernisation by Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite

France and Indian companies signed contracts worth 13 billion euros ($16 billion) on the first day of President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India on Saturday, the French president said in a statement. After a 90-minute long meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron followed by delegation-level talks between the two sides, 14 agreements have been signed between India and France. This is followed by the joint press statement by the two leaders, reports said. The deals include a contract for France's Safran to supply SpiceJet with engines, water system modernisation by Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite. Macron's office did not provide a breakdown of the contracts' values or details about the deals. It said some 200 million euros of investments will be made in India. A so-called "Industrial Way Forward Agreement" was signed between French utility EDF and India's NPCIL for the construction of six nuclear reactors at Jaitapur. Negotiations over the construction of next-generation nuclear reactors in India have been dragging on for years. It was not immediately clear whether these were firm contracts or letters of intent. Macron, who is currently on four-day India tour from March 9 to 12, was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday morning as he met president Ram Nath Kovind. Accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron and M.J. Akbar, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Macron visited Rajghat and paid his tribute at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi on Saturday. President Macron also met Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj this morning. "They exchanged views on enhancing strategic partnership in trade and investment, defence and security, culture, education and people-to-people ties," tweeted Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

France signs deals worth 13 billion euros with India

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-concrete-actions-from-north-korea-before-planned-talks-35266">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-concrete-actions-from-north-korea-before-planned-talks-35266"> seeks &#39;concrete actions&#39; from North Korea before planned talks</a>

US President Donald Trump will not meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unless Pyongyang takes &quot;concrete actions,&quot; the White House said on Friday as it faced criticism for agreeing to talks that would give North Korea international legitimacy.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-35256">French president Macron arrives in India on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-35256">4-day</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-arrives-in-india-on-4-day-visit-35256"> visit</a>

French President France Emmanuel Macron arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a four-day state visit. He was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as soon as he touched down at the Delhi airport. The two had a brief interaction before the French president was whisked away in a waiting car.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/deal-with-north-korea-in-the-making-and-will-be-a-good-one-for-the-world-trump-35275">Deal with North Korea in the making and will be a good one for the world: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday a deal with North Korea is very much in the making and will be, if completed, a very good one for the world. Trump took to Twitter and said, &quot;a deal with North Korea is very much in the making and will be, if completed, a very good one for the world.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/loya-may-have-died-due-to-poisoning-ngo-to-supreme-court-35276">Justice Loya may have died due to poisoning: NGO to Supreme court</a>

An NGO, which had sought an independent probe into the alleged mysterious death of special CBI judge B H Loya Saturday claimed in the Supreme Court that he might have died due to poisoning as he had complained of chest congestion.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-holed-up-at-california-veterans-home-with-3-hostages-35269">Gunman</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-holed-up-at-california-veterans-home-with-3-hostages-35269"> holed up at California veterans home with 3 hostages&nbsp;</a>

A gunman who once served in the US military opened fire on Friday inside a California home for disabled and aging war veterans, where he took three hostages and was holding police at bay as negotiators sought to make contact with him for several hours, authorities said.

US seeks 'concrete actions' from North Korea before planned talks US President Donald Trump will not meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un unless Pyongyang takes "concrete actions," the White House said on Friday as it faced criticism for agreeing to talks that would give North Korea international legitimacy. French president Macron arrives in India on 4-day visit French President France Emmanuel Macron arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a four-day state visit. He was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as soon as he touched down at the Delhi airport. The two had a brief interaction before the French president was whisked away in a waiting car. Deal with North Korea in the making and will be a good one for the world: Trump US President Donald Trump on Saturday a deal with North Korea is very much in the making and will be, if completed, a very good one for the world. Trump took to Twitter and said, "a deal with North Korea is very much in the making and will be, if completed, a very good one for the world." Justice Loya may have died due to poisoning: NGO to Supreme court An NGO, which had sought an independent probe into the alleged mysterious death of special CBI judge B H Loya Saturday claimed in the Supreme Court that he might have died due to poisoning as he had complained of chest congestion. Gunman holed up at California veterans home with 3 hostages A gunman who once served in the US military opened fire on Friday inside a California home for disabled and aging war veterans, where he took three hostages and was holding police at bay as negotiators sought to make contact with him for several hours, authorities said.

WION Morning News Brief, March 10, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-france-sign-14-agreements-to-boost-bilateral-ties-35305">India, France sign 14 agreements, to boost bilateral ties</a>

India and France on Saturday signed as many as 14 bilateral agreements aimed at boosting ties, including in sectors of security and nuclear energy, at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

The French and Indian companies have also signed contracts worth $16 billion on the occasion. According to reports, around 200 million euros of investments will be made in India.

The deals include a contract for France&rsquo;s Safran to supply SpiceJet with engines, water system modernisation by French water utility firm Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-harbous-un-designate-terrorists-india-slams-pakistan-at-unhrc-35320">Pakistan harbours UN designate terrorists: India slams Pakistan at UNHRC</a>

Speaking at the 37th session of UN human rights council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, Mini Devi Kumam, Second Secretary, India&#39;s Permanent Mission has lashed at Pakistan for sheltering UN-designated terrorists.

Calling Pakistan a failed state, Kumam said, &quot;In gross violation of UN Security Council resolution 1267, the UN designated terrorists like Hafiz Mohammed Saeed are freely operating with State support, and the UN designated entities are being politically mainstreamed in Pakistan.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ceiling-arvind-kejriwal-writes-letter-to-pm-modi-rahul-gandhi-seeking-bill-against-ceiling-35317">Arvind Kejriwal writes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ceiling-arvind-kejriwal-writes-letter-to-pm-modi-rahul-gandhi-seeking-bill-against-ceiling-35317">letter</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ceiling-arvind-kejriwal-writes-letter-to-pm-modi-rahul-gandhi-seeking-bill-against-ceiling-35317"> to PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi seeking bill against ceiling drive</a>

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi seeking a law against the sealing drive in Delhi.

In the letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal has written that the sealing is being undertaken because of some irregularities in the law.

He wrote that the centre was supposed to tackle such irregularities, however, it did not mend these on time, and now the people have to face the consequence.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dr-br-ambedkars-statue-vandalised-in-azamgarh-35301">Ambedkar&#39;s statue vandalised in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Azamgarh</a>

Dalit leader Dr BR Ambedkar&#39;s statue was vandalised in Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

The statue was found beheaded in the middle of the ground in Azamgarh. The police, who were informed about the incident rushed to the spot.&nbsp;

This is the latest in the flurry of attacks on the statue of iconic leaders in the country. &nbsp;On Wednesday, a bust of Ambedkar was defaced by unknown people in north Chennai in Tamil Nadu, days after a statue of Dravidian icon EV Ramasamy Periyar was vandalised in South Indian state after a senior BJP leader&rsquo;s inflammatory post on Facebook.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/suresh-bhaiyyaji-joshi-re-elected-rss-general-secretary-35321">Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi re-elected RSS general secretary</a>

The RSS today re-elected as its general secretary Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi for another three years.

Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi, who has been holding the post since 2009, will now remain in charge till 2021.

According to sources, who were present in the meeting, no other name was proposed. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India, France sign 14 agreements, to boost bilateral ties India and France on Saturday signed as many as 14 bilateral agreements aimed at boosting ties, including in sectors of security and nuclear energy, at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The French and Indian companies have also signed contracts worth $16 billion on the occasion. According to reports, around 200 million euros of investments will be made in India. The deals include a contract for France’s Safran to supply SpiceJet with engines, water system modernisation by French water utility firm Suez in the southern city of Davangere and a contract between industrial gas company Air Liquide and Sterlite. Pakistan harbours UN designate terrorists: India slams Pakistan at UNHRC Speaking at the 37th session of UN human rights council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, Mini Devi Kumam, Second Secretary, India's Permanent Mission has lashed at Pakistan for sheltering UN-designated terrorists. Calling Pakistan a failed state, Kumam said, "In gross violation of UN Security Council resolution 1267, the UN designated terrorists like Hafiz Mohammed Saeed are freely operating with State support, and the UN designated entities are being politically mainstreamed in Pakistan." Arvind Kejriwal writes letter to PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi seeking bill against ceiling drive Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi seeking a law against the sealing drive in Delhi. In the letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal has written that the sealing is being undertaken because of some irregularities in the law. He wrote that the centre was supposed to tackle such irregularities, however, it did not mend these on time, and now the people have to face the consequence. Ambedkar's statue vandalised in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh Dalit leader Dr BR Ambedkar's statue was vandalised in Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday. The statue was found beheaded in the middle of the ground in Azamgarh. The police, who were informed about the incident rushed to the spot. This is the latest in the flurry of attacks on the statue of iconic leaders in the country. On Wednesday, a bust of Ambedkar was defaced by unknown people in north Chennai in Tamil Nadu, days after a statue of Dravidian icon EV Ramasamy Periyar was vandalised in South Indian state after a senior BJP leader’s inflammatory post on Facebook. Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi re-elected RSS general secretary The RSS today re-elected as its general secretary Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi for another three years. Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi, who has been holding the post since 2009, will now remain in charge till 2021. According to sources, who were present in the meeting, no other name was proposed.

WION evening news brief, March 10, 2018

French president Emmanuel Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India interacted with Indian students at New Delhi&#39;s Bikaner House.

The French president said there was a need for more exchange between the French and the Indian people and students and that he wanted most of the researchers from India to come to France.

&quot;I think we need more exchange between our people, our students. I want most of the researchers to come to France and I am happy to be here today,&quot; Emmanuel Macron said.

The French president said he wanted to double the number of Indian students coming to France.

&quot;I want to double the number of Indian students coming to France and also want to increase the number of French students going to India,&quot; President Macron said.

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The French president said the countries were in the middle of a digital revolution and climate change and more speed was required.

&quot;We&#39;re in the middle of revolution on digital era and climate change. We need more speediness. What we need is a change in mindset, facilitate entrepreneurship, increase risk takers&#39; numbers. Artificial Intelligence is big game changer but you need to start it from the ground,&quot; the French President said.

President Macron told students that most of the issues on climate and terrorism were because of the short-term vision of most of the leaders who were &quot;greedy&quot;.

&quot;Most of the issues we have today, on climate, on terrorism are because of the short-term vision of most of the leaders. They were greedy,&quot; the French President said.

Emmanuel Macron also met President Ramnath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.&nbsp; 
 
Earlier on Saturday, India and France signed as many as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-france-sign-14-agreements-to-boost-bilateral-ties-35305">14 bilateral agreements</a> aimed at boosting ties at the Hyderabad House in the national capital.

According to reports, around 200 million euros of investments will be made in India.

A so-called &quot;Industrial Way Forward Agreement&quot; was signed between French utility EDF and India&#39;s NPCIL for the construction of six nuclear reactors at Jaitapur.&nbsp;

While issuing a joint statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the two countries share a 20-year-old strategic partnership and have made efforts to strengthen people to people ties.&nbsp;

The French President, who is travelling with his wife Brigitte and delegation of businessmen and ministry officials, will tour India from March 9 to March 12.

Macron will also chair the International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit on Sunday.

He is also expected to make a visit to Taj Mahal and on Monday will head to Varanasi where he will be accompanied by PM Modi.

Macron last visited India in 2016 when he was invited to be the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations.

The French president said there was a need for more exchange between the French and the Indian people and students and that he wanted most of the researchers from India to come to France

French president Emmanuel Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India interacted with Indian students at New Delhi's Bikaner House. The French president said there was a need for more exchange between the French and the Indian people and students and that he wanted most of the researchers from India to come to France. "I think we need more exchange between our people, our students. I want most of the researchers to come to France and I am happy to be here today," Emmanuel Macron said. The French president said he wanted to double the number of Indian students coming to France. "I want to double the number of Indian students coming to France and also want to increase the number of French students going to India," President Macron said. #WATCH French President Emmanuel Macron interacts with students in Delhi https://t.co/tot34dVvrA — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 × The French president said the countries were in the middle of a digital revolution and climate change and more speed was required. "We're in the middle of revolution on digital era and climate change. We need more speediness. What we need is a change in mindset, facilitate entrepreneurship, increase risk takers' numbers. Artificial Intelligence is big game changer but you need to start it from the ground," the French President said. President Macron told students that most of the issues on climate and terrorism were because of the short-term vision of most of the leaders who were "greedy". "Most of the issues we have today, on climate, on terrorism are because of the short-term vision of most of the leaders. They were greedy," the French President said. Emmanuel Macron also met President Ramnath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. Earlier on Saturday, India and France signed as many as 14 bilateral agreements aimed at boosting ties at the Hyderabad House in the national capital. According to reports, around 200 million euros of investments will be made in India. A so-called "Industrial Way Forward Agreement" was signed between French utility EDF and India's NPCIL for the construction of six nuclear reactors at Jaitapur. While issuing a joint statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the two countries share a 20-year-old strategic partnership and have made efforts to strengthen people to people ties. The French President, who is travelling with his wife Brigitte and delegation of businessmen and ministry officials, will tour India from March 9 to March 12. Macron will also chair the International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit on Sunday. He is also expected to make a visit to Taj Mahal and on Monday will head to Varanasi where he will be accompanied by PM Modi. Macron last visited India in 2016 when he was invited to be the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations.

Need for more exchange between students: President Macron

French President France Emmanuel Macron arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a four-day state visit.&nbsp;

He was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as soon as he touched down at the Delhi airport. The two had a brief interaction before the French president was whisked away in a waiting car.

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&nbsp;

The French President, who is travelling with his wife Brigitte and delegation of businessmen and ministry officials, will tour India from March 9 to March 12.

Macron will also hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in order to enhance and cooperate in the defence, maritime, security and energy-related sectors.&nbsp;

Also read - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-on-visit-to-india-french-president-macron-may-not-take-anti-china-position-35196">Opinion: On </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-on-visit-to-india-french-president-macron-may-not-take-anti-china-position-35196">visit</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-on-visit-to-india-french-president-macron-may-not-take-anti-china-position-35196"> to India, French President Macron may not take </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-on-visit-to-india-french-president-macron-may-not-take-anti-china-position-35196">anti-China</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-on-visit-to-india-french-president-macron-may-not-take-anti-china-position-35196"> position</a>

Issues like terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, smart urbanization, science and technology cooperation will take centre stage during the discussions.

Ministry of External Affairs earlier said in a statement that &quot;the visit of President Macron is aimed at strengthening the bilateral economic, political and strategic dimension of our engagement&quot;.

Macron will also chair the International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit on Sunday.

He is also expected to make a visit to Taj Mahal and on Monday will head to Varanasi where he will be accompanied by PM Modi.

Macron last visited India in 2016 when he was invited to be the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations. 
&nbsp;

 
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The French president and PM Modi had a brief interaction before the French president was whisked away in a waiting car

French President France Emmanuel Macron arrived in New Delhi on Friday on a four-day state visit. He was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as soon as he touched down at the Delhi airport. The two had a brief interaction before the French president was whisked away in a waiting car. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Emmanuel Macron, President of France in Delhi. The France President is on a four-day visit to India. pic.twitter.com/GX4tZmE3En — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2018 × The French President, who is travelling with his wife Brigitte and delegation of businessmen and ministry officials, will tour India from March 9 to March 12. Macron will also hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in order to enhance and cooperate in the defence, maritime, security and energy-related sectors. Also read - Opinion: On visit to India, French President Macron may not take anti-China position Issues like terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, smart urbanization, science and technology cooperation will take centre stage during the discussions. Ministry of External Affairs earlier said in a statement that "the visit of President Macron is aimed at strengthening the bilateral economic, political and strategic dimension of our engagement". Macron will also chair the International Solar Alliance (ISA) summit on Sunday. He is also expected to make a visit to Taj Mahal and on Monday will head to Varanasi where he will be accompanied by PM Modi. Macron last visited India in 2016 when he was invited to be the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations.

French president Macron arrives in India on 4-day visit

French President Emmanuel Macron will pay a four-day visit to India from March 9 during which he would discuss the economic, political and strategic ties between the two countries, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said today.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level talks with the French president on March 10.&nbsp;

The leaders will co-chair the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) a day later. The initiative to form the ISA for harnessing solar energy was taken by Modi and Macron&#39;s predecessor Fran&ccedil;ois Hollande, it said.&nbsp;

The French president&#39;s spouse Brigitte Marie-Claude Macron will also accompany him.&nbsp;

The last visit of the French president to India was in January 2016 when Macron was the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations that year. Modi last visited France in June&nbsp;2017, immediately after Macron was elected to office.&nbsp;

India-France strategic partnership, established in 1998, is one of the most important and comprehensive bilateral engagements.

&quot;We have enhanced and ongoing cooperation in the defence, maritime, space, security, and energy-related sectors, and are increasingly working together on all issues of concern including terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, smart urbanisation, S&amp;T cooperation, and youth exchanges.&nbsp;

&quot;The visit of President Macron is aimed at strengthening the economic, political and strategic dimension of our bilateral engagement,&quot; the statement by the MEA said.

The bilateral trade between India and France for the period April, 2016 to March, 2017 reached $10.95 billion.&nbsp;

France is the 9th largest foreign investor in India with a cumulative investment of USD 6.09 billion from April&nbsp;2000 to October&nbsp;2017.&nbsp;

Close to 1,000 French companies are present in India and about 120 Indian companies have invested in excess of Euro 1 billion in France and employ close to 7,000 people.&nbsp;

The India-France CEO&#39;s Forum will also take place during Macron&#39;s visit to India, the statement said.&nbsp;

The visit is also aimed at forging not only strong manufacturing and technology partnerships&nbsp;but also greater people-to-people contacts, especially through greater exchanges of students and researchers, it added.&nbsp;

 
<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fspe_VCL1ug" width="560"></iframe> 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level talks with the French president on March 10

French President Emmanuel Macron will pay a four-day visit to India from March 9 during which he would discuss the economic, political and strategic ties between the two countries, a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs said today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold delegation-level talks with the French president on March 10. The leaders will co-chair the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) a day later. The initiative to form the ISA for harnessing solar energy was taken by Modi and Macron's predecessor François Hollande, it said. The French president's spouse Brigitte Marie-Claude Macron will also accompany him. The last visit of the French president to India was in January 2016 when Macron was the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations that year. Modi last visited France in June 2017, immediately after Macron was elected to office. India-France strategic partnership, established in 1998, is one of the most important and comprehensive bilateral engagements. "We have enhanced and ongoing cooperation in the defence, maritime, space, security, and energy-related sectors, and are increasingly working together on all issues of concern including terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, smart urbanisation, S&T cooperation, and youth exchanges. "The visit of President Macron is aimed at strengthening the economic, political and strategic dimension of our bilateral engagement," the statement by the MEA said. The bilateral trade between India and France for the period April, 2016 to March, 2017 reached $10.95 billion. France is the 9th largest foreign investor in India with a cumulative investment of USD 6.09 billion from April 2000 to October 2017. Close to 1,000 French companies are present in India and about 120 Indian companies have invested in excess of Euro 1 billion in France and employ close to 7,000 people. The India-France CEO's Forum will also take place during Macron's visit to India, the statement said. The visit is also aimed at forging not only strong manufacturing and technology partnerships but also greater people-to-people contacts, especially through greater exchanges of students and researchers, it added.

French president Macron to visit India on March 9

A new British political party inspired by French President Emmanuel Macron`s rise to power launched a national electoral campaign on Monday aimed at stopping Brexit.

The Renew party, which was founded last year after Macron`s En Marche! movement propelled him to power, said it would seek to stoke debate on Brexit and accused Britain`s main parties of losing touch with voters who feel abandoned by the elite.

&quot;We intend to be tough on Brexit and tough on the causes of Brexit,&quot; said James Torrance, the party`s head of strategy. &quot;We&rsquo;ll pressure MPs to consider the national interest and put Remain back on the table in a vote on the final EU deal.&quot;

In the United Kingdom&rsquo;s 2016 referendum, 51.9 per cent, or 17.4 million people, voted to leave the EU while 48.1 per cent, or 16.1 million, voted to stay.

Since then, supporters of EU membership have been exploring a range of legal and political methods to prevent what they see as the biggest mistake in post-World War Two British political history.

Prime Minister Theresa May, whose government and party is divided over Brexit, has just eight months to strike a withdrawal deal with the EU but insists Britain will leave at 2300 GMT on March 29, 2019.

Opponents of Brexit are trying to garner enough support in the lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, to block any possible withdrawal deal May brings back from Brussels in October.

Supporters of Brexit say any attempt to prevent Brexit will thrust Britain into a constitutional crisis.

Among those who have called for Brexit to be halted are former Prime Minister Tony Blair, Goldman Sachs Group Inc Chief Executive Lloyd Blankfein and George Soros, who made a fortune by betting against the British pound in 1992.

The Renew party, which was founded last year after Macron`s En Marche! movement propelled him to power, said it would seek to stoke debate on Brexit and accused Britain`s main parties of losing touch with voters who feel abandoned by the elite

A new British political party inspired by French President Emmanuel Macron`s rise to power launched a national electoral campaign on Monday aimed at stopping Brexit. The Renew party, which was founded last year after Macron`s En Marche! movement propelled him to power, said it would seek to stoke debate on Brexit and accused Britain`s main parties of losing touch with voters who feel abandoned by the elite. "We intend to be tough on Brexit and tough on the causes of Brexit," said James Torrance, the party`s head of strategy. "We’ll pressure MPs to consider the national interest and put Remain back on the table in a vote on the final EU deal." In the United Kingdom’s 2016 referendum, 51.9 per cent, or 17.4 million people, voted to leave the EU while 48.1 per cent, or 16.1 million, voted to stay. Since then, supporters of EU membership have been exploring a range of legal and political methods to prevent what they see as the biggest mistake in post-World War Two British political history. Prime Minister Theresa May, whose government and party is divided over Brexit, has just eight months to strike a withdrawal deal with the EU but insists Britain will leave at 2300 GMT on March 29, 2019. Opponents of Brexit are trying to garner enough support in the lower house of parliament, the House of Commons, to block any possible withdrawal deal May brings back from Brussels in October. Supporters of Brexit say any attempt to prevent Brexit will thrust Britain into a constitutional crisis. Among those who have called for Brexit to be halted are former Prime Minister Tony Blair, Goldman Sachs Group Inc Chief Executive Lloyd Blankfein and George Soros, who made a fortune by betting against the British pound in 1992.

New British party inspired by France's Macron seeks to overturn Brexit

The military parade that President Donald Trump wants to stage, likely in Washington, would cost U.S. taxpayers up to $30 million, the White House budget chief said on Wednesday in remarks on the administration&#39;s fiscal 2019 spending plan.

Mick Mulvaney, who in a congressional hearing continued a broad defence of the $4.4-trillion plan he began earlier this week, was asked about the parade, which Trump&#39;s spending plan does not break out as a specific item.

&quot;The estimates I&rsquo;ve seen, they&rsquo;re very preliminary, is between $10 million and $30 million, depending upon the length,&quot; said Mulvaney, director of the US&nbsp;Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

&quot;Obviously an hour parade is different from a five-hour parade in terms of the cost and the equipment and those types of things.&quot;

According to media reports, Trump came up with the idea of showing off U.S. military might after a 2017 trip to France when he and French President Emmanuel Macron reviewed that country&#39;s defence forces marching down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees in Paris.&nbsp;

Trump ordered the Defense Department to look into a comparable display of military might that he could review.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said last week he believed Trump wants Washington to host the parade but left open the possibility that it could be staged elsewhere.

Ahead of Mulvaney&#39;s testimony, Republican committee Chairman Steve Womack asked about the deficit impact of Trump&#39;s spending plan. Mulvaney faced similar inquiries earlier this week.

At a Senate panel hearing on Tuesday, he was asked if he would vote for the Trump spending plan if he were still in Congress, which he was before Trump hired him to run OMB.

&quot;I probably would have found enough shortcomings in this to vote against it,&quot; Mulvaney said at the time.

On Wednesday, Mulvaney walked that back, telling the House panel he thought he had been asked not about Trump&#39;s budget, but about a narrower two-year spending-caps deal.

&ldquo;I read in the newspapers this morning that someone reported that I wouldn&rsquo;t support this budget if I were in Congress. That is absolutely false,&rdquo; Mulvaney said. &ldquo;I absolutely, without reservation, support this budget.&quot;

Trump ordered the Defense Department to look into a comparable display of military might that he could review.

The military parade that President Donald Trump wants to stage, likely in Washington, would cost U.S. taxpayers up to $30 million, the White House budget chief said on Wednesday in remarks on the administration's fiscal 2019 spending plan. Mick Mulvaney, who in a congressional hearing continued a broad defence of the $4.4-trillion plan he began earlier this week, was asked about the parade, which Trump's spending plan does not break out as a specific item. "The estimates I’ve seen, they’re very preliminary, is between $10 million and $30 million, depending upon the length," said Mulvaney, director of the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB). "Obviously an hour parade is different from a five-hour parade in terms of the cost and the equipment and those types of things." According to media reports, Trump came up with the idea of showing off U.S. military might after a 2017 trip to France when he and French President Emmanuel Macron reviewed that country's defence forces marching down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees in Paris. Trump ordered the Defense Department to look into a comparable display of military might that he could review. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said last week he believed Trump wants Washington to host the parade but left open the possibility that it could be staged elsewhere. Ahead of Mulvaney's testimony, Republican committee Chairman Steve Womack asked about the deficit impact of Trump's spending plan. Mulvaney faced similar inquiries earlier this week. At a Senate panel hearing on Tuesday, he was asked if he would vote for the Trump spending plan if he were still in Congress, which he was before Trump hired him to run OMB. "I probably would have found enough shortcomings in this to vote against it," Mulvaney said at the time. On Wednesday, Mulvaney walked that back, telling the House panel he thought he had been asked not about Trump's budget, but about a narrower two-year spending-caps deal. “I read in the newspapers this morning that someone reported that I wouldn’t support this budget if I were in Congress. That is absolutely false,” Mulvaney said. “I absolutely, without reservation, support this budget."

Trump's military parade could cost between $10 to $30 million: Budget chief Mulvaney

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/as-iran-nuclear-deal-hangs-in-balance-president-macron-calls-trump-29279" target="_blank">As Iran nuclear deal hangs in balance, President Macron calls Trump</a>

As President Trump mulls over Iran nuclear deal, French President &nbsp;Macron said there should be &quot;strict application&quot; and &quot;importance of all signatories to respect it&quot;. Trump is expected to decide today on providing relief to Iran under the 215 nuclear deal which was signed by former President Obama along with other nations.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-mallyas-bail-extended-till-april-2-concerns-raised-over-reliability-of-evidence-29276" target="_blank">Vijay Mallya&#39;s bail extended till April 2, concerns raised over reliability of evidence</a>

The Westminster magistrates&#39; court in London on Thursday decided to extend liquor baron Vijay Mallya&#39;s bail till April 2 in association with his extradition case. The bail raised concerns over the reliability of evidence provided by India. Judge Emma Arbuthnot has extended Mallya&#39;s &pound;650,000 bail.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-we-want-people-from-these-shithole-countries-trump-over-immigrants-from-africa-haiti-29278" target="_blank">Lawmakers angry over Trump&#39;s expletive on immigrants</a>

President Donald Trump on Thursday questioned why the United States would want to have immigrants from Haiti and African nations, referring to some as &quot;shithole countries&quot;. &quot;Why do we want all these people from Africa here? They&#39;re shithole countries ... We should have more people from Norway&quot; he said. He further slammed the need for Haitians in the United States.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-all-set-to-launch-100th-satellite-today-29283" target="_blank">Countdown begins as ISRO gets set to launch 100th satellite today</a>

India is all set to launch its 100th satellite &#39;Cartosat-2 Series&#39; from Andhra Pradesh&#39;s Sriharikota today. The launch is set for 9:28am on Friday at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-may-cancel-uk-visit-amid-fears-of-mass-protests-report-29282" target="_blank">Trump may cancel UK visit amid fears of mass protests: Report</a>

President Trump may pull out of the visit to Britain next month amid concerns over mass protests when he arrives in London, British media reported. Last month, PM Theresa May&#39;s cabinet minister Sam Gyimah had said he would feel &nbsp;&ldquo;deeply uncomfortable&rdquo; if President Trump&#39;s visit went ahead after May clashed with Trump over US president&#39;s retweets of far-right anti-Muslim propaganda, Britain First.

As Iran nuclear deal hangs in balance, President Macron calls Trump As President Trump mulls over Iran nuclear deal, French President Macron said there should be "strict application" and "importance of all signatories to respect it". Trump is expected to decide today on providing relief to Iran under the 215 nuclear deal which was signed by former President Obama along with other nations. Vijay Mallya's bail extended till April 2, concerns raised over reliability of evidence The Westminster magistrates' court in London on Thursday decided to extend liquor baron Vijay Mallya's bail till April 2 in association with his extradition case. The bail raised concerns over the reliability of evidence provided by India. Judge Emma Arbuthnot has extended Mallya's £650,000 bail. Lawmakers angry over Trump's expletive on immigrants President Donald Trump on Thursday questioned why the United States would want to have immigrants from Haiti and African nations, referring to some as "shithole countries". "Why do we want all these people from Africa here? They're shithole countries ... We should have more people from Norway" he said. He further slammed the need for Haitians in the United States. Countdown begins as ISRO gets set to launch 100th satellite today India is all set to launch its 100th satellite 'Cartosat-2 Series' from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota today. The launch is set for 9:28am on Friday at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. Trump may cancel UK visit amid fears of mass protests: Report President Trump may pull out of the visit to Britain next month amid concerns over mass protests when he arrives in London, British media reported. Last month, PM Theresa May's cabinet minister Sam Gyimah had said he would feel “deeply uncomfortable” if President Trump's visit went ahead after May clashed with Trump over US president's retweets of far-right anti-Muslim propaganda, Britain First.

WION Morning News Brief, January 12, 2017

As President Trump mulls over<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-warns-against-mid-east-meddling-at-lebanon-conference-26265"> Iran nuclear deal, French President </a>&nbsp;Macron said there should be &quot;strict application&quot;&nbsp;and &quot;importance of all signatories to respect it&quot;.

Trump is expected to decide today on providing relief to Iran under the 215 nuclear deal which was signed by former President Obama along with other nations.

Macron called Trump on Thursday to pitch for the deal stressing its importance even as Trump who has made a number of statements against Iran in recent months kept everyone guessing about his administration&#39;s next move.

&quot;The proper implementation of the agreement should be accompanied by a strengthened dialogue with Iran on its ballistic program and its regional policy, in order to guarantee better stability in the Middle East,&quot; the French president said during his phone call to Trump.

There are fears the US may scrap the nuclear deal which has been signed by the United States, UK, Russia, France, and China including Germany and the European Union.

Macron during his phone call to Trump stressed that the nuclear deal must be accompanied by another round of dialogue with Iran on its ballistic missile programme.

Trump and Macron are set to at the World Economic Forum in Davos later this month.

Macron called Trump on Thursday to pitch for the nuclear deal stressing its importance even as Trump mulled his next move

As President Trump mulls over Iran nuclear deal, French President Macron said there should be "strict application" and "importance of all signatories to respect it". Trump is expected to decide today on providing relief to Iran under the 215 nuclear deal which was signed by former President Obama along with other nations. Macron called Trump on Thursday to pitch for the deal stressing its importance even as Trump who has made a number of statements against Iran in recent months kept everyone guessing about his administration's next move. "The proper implementation of the agreement should be accompanied by a strengthened dialogue with Iran on its ballistic program and its regional policy, in order to guarantee better stability in the Middle East," the French president said during his phone call to Trump. There are fears the US may scrap the nuclear deal which has been signed by the United States, UK, Russia, France, and China including Germany and the European Union. Macron during his phone call to Trump stressed that the nuclear deal must be accompanied by another round of dialogue with Iran on its ballistic missile programme. Trump and Macron are set to at the World Economic Forum in Davos later this month.

As Iran nuclear deal hangs in balance, President Macron calls Trump

A behind-the-scenes video of French President Emmanuel Macron wrestling with the Mandarin pronunciation of his climate change slogan &quot;Make our planet great again&quot; has delighted Chinese social media.

The candid footage shows Macron sneezing and wondering when to breathe as he diligently repeats the phrase after his instructor, while a woman touches up his make-up and two bemused men in military garb look on.

Macron was able to show off his new skills in a keynote speech on the future of Sino-French relations during a stop Monday in the northern city of Xian, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road.

But it was the video of him learning the Chinese version of the expression -- a tongue-in-cheek jab at US President Donald Trump&#39;s &quot;Make America Great&quot; campaign slogan -- that endeared him to Chinese social media users.

&quot;Rang,&quot; Macron says in the clip that was posted on Twitter late Monday.

&quot;It`s like &#39;Jean&#39;, then,&quot; he says, referring to a French first name that sounds like the pronunciation of the Chinese word &quot;rang&quot;.

Determined to properly execute Mandarin`s notoriously difficult tones, the president asks: &quot;So where am I supposed to breathe?&quot;

Enunciating the phrase, he says, &quot;rang diqiu zaici weida&quot; -- Make the planet great again.&nbsp;

Macron, who speaks fluent English, was applauded for his efforts on China&#39;s Twitter-like Weibo platform Tuesday.

&quot;President Macron&#39;s really giving it his all,&quot; one commenter said. &quot;In order to spread his environmental philosophy in China, he even learned how to say &#39;make Planet Great Again&#39;&nbsp;in Chinese hahahaha.&quot;

Another user wrote that Macron&#39;s use of the phrase in Chinese showed his &quot;steadfast resolve&quot; to spread his environmental message.

Macron visited the Forbidden City Tuesday and will hold more talks with President Xi Jinping following their initial meeting on Monday night.

Macron was able to show off his new skills in a keynote speech on the future of Sino-French relations during a stop Monday in the northern city of Xian

A behind-the-scenes video of French President Emmanuel Macron wrestling with the Mandarin pronunciation of his climate change slogan "Make our planet great again" has delighted Chinese social media. The candid footage shows Macron sneezing and wondering when to breathe as he diligently repeats the phrase after his instructor, while a woman touches up his make-up and two bemused men in military garb look on. Macron was able to show off his new skills in a keynote speech on the future of Sino-French relations during a stop Monday in the northern city of Xian, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. But it was the video of him learning the Chinese version of the expression -- a tongue-in-cheek jab at US President Donald Trump's "Make America Great" campaign slogan -- that endeared him to Chinese social media users. "Rang," Macron says in the clip that was posted on Twitter late Monday. "It`s like 'Jean', then," he says, referring to a French first name that sounds like the pronunciation of the Chinese word "rang". Determined to properly execute Mandarin`s notoriously difficult tones, the president asks: "So where am I supposed to breathe?" Enunciating the phrase, he says, "rang diqiu zaici weida" -- Make the planet great again. Macron, who speaks fluent English, was applauded for his efforts on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform Tuesday. "President Macron's really giving it his all," one commenter said. "In order to spread his environmental philosophy in China, he even learned how to say 'make Planet Great Again' in Chinese hahahaha." Another user wrote that Macron's use of the phrase in Chinese showed his "steadfast resolve" to spread his environmental message. Macron visited the Forbidden City Tuesday and will hold more talks with President Xi Jinping following their initial meeting on Monday night.

Macron wins Chinese fans with Mandarin lesson

French President Emmanuel Macron called on Tuesday for a more coordinated European approach to trade with China during an official visit to Beijing.

Macron said that too often in the past, European countries had come to China with widely varying agendas with some seeking more openness and others wary of more granting more access to their markets.

&ldquo;We need a coordinated European approach ... that gives China more visibility about our agenda,&rdquo; Macron said after a commercial contract signing ceremony.

&ldquo;That&rsquo;s why France is in favour of defining strategic sectors where we want to protect investments... It&rsquo;s a question of sovereignty as you yourselves have understood very well,&rdquo; Macron added, seated next to his Chinese counterpart.

Macron said that too often in the past, European countries had come to China with widely varying agendas

French President Emmanuel Macron called on Tuesday for a more coordinated European approach to trade with China during an official visit to Beijing. Macron said that too often in the past, European countries had come to China with widely varying agendas with some seeking more openness and others wary of more granting more access to their markets. “We need a coordinated European approach ... that gives China more visibility about our agenda,” Macron said after a commercial contract signing ceremony. “That’s why France is in favour of defining strategic sectors where we want to protect investments... It’s a question of sovereignty as you yourselves have understood very well,” Macron added, seated next to his Chinese counterpart.

French President Emmanuel Macron says EU needs coordinated stance on Chinese trade

French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that &quot;no progress is possible&quot; in Turkey&#39;s bid to join the European Union after a huge post-coup crackdown and other human rights concerns.

&quot;For relations with the European Union, it is clear that recent developments and choices allow no progress in the process,&quot; Macron said at a joint press conference in Paris with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that "no progress is possible" in Turkey's bid to join the European Union after a huge post-coup crackdown and other human rights concerns

French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that "no progress is possible" in Turkey's bid to join the European Union after a huge post-coup crackdown and other human rights concerns. "For relations with the European Union, it is clear that recent developments and choices allow no progress in the process," Macron said at a joint press conference in Paris with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

No progress possible on Turkey's EU bid: Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday, directed to carry out a slew of measures to fight against the &quot;horrific and shameful&quot; violence against women, and also pledged to make gender equality a major reason of his leadership.

&quot;Our entire society is sick with sexism,&quot; Macron said in a speech in Paris to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Macron started off the hour-long speech with a minute of silence to pay respect to the 123 women killed in 2016 in France by their partner or ex-partner, reports said.

&quot;France must no longer be one of those countries where women are afraid,&quot; he said.

&ldquo;Let&rsquo;s seal a pact of equality between men and women,&rdquo; Macron said in a speech marking the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women. About violence and sexual abuse, he said: &ldquo;It is essential that shame changes camp.&rdquo;

A number of measures have been announced, including education to secondary school children on pornography and making a systematic but easy system for victims to go to the police for rape and assault cases.

Moreover, measures that may be added in a 2018 draft law could consist of criminalizing street harassment and increasing the statute of limitation for the rape of minors to 30 years from 20 years

The leader further said that he may propose to set the age for sexual consent to 15 as there is no such law yet in the country.&nbsp;

Further, changes may be made to administer rape and assault cases and create portals for victims to file complaints online before going to the police. Measure like &#39;on demand&#39; bus stops will also be proposed, wherein women will be allowed to stop the bus at any point to get home safely

French feminist group Osez le F&eacute;minisme said the measures were going in the right direction but must be accompanied by adequate funding.

&ldquo;Without funding, any communication, training, awareness or help plan for the victims will be useless,&rdquo; the statement said.

The conference also had a number of past victims who survived similar cases - a women who survived from being stabbed by her ex-partner, a mother of a student who was killed by her partner and set fire to her body after she ended the relationship, a Moroccan immigrant whose abusive husband burned down their home after she found the courage to flee to safety with their children, a Nigerian who was trafficked into a prostitution ring the day she set foot in Italy - were amongst some.&nbsp;

Nearly 225,000 women are said to have been victims of physical or sexual violence by their partner in France, but fewer than one in five have made a complaint to authorities.

The Harvey Weinstein scandal in the United States has accelerated a rethink of attitudes toward sexual harassment in France, a country that cherishes its self-image as the land of seduction and romance. 
&nbsp;

During his speech, Macron observed a minute?s silence for the 123 women killed by their partner or ex-partner in 2016.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday, directed to carry out a slew of measures to fight against the "horrific and shameful" violence against women, and also pledged to make gender equality a major reason of his leadership. "Our entire society is sick with sexism," Macron said in a speech in Paris to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Macron started off the hour-long speech with a minute of silence to pay respect to the 123 women killed in 2016 in France by their partner or ex-partner, reports said. "France must no longer be one of those countries where women are afraid," he said. “Let’s seal a pact of equality between men and women,” Macron said in a speech marking the International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women. About violence and sexual abuse, he said: “It is essential that shame changes camp.” A number of measures have been announced, including education to secondary school children on pornography and making a systematic but easy system for victims to go to the police for rape and assault cases. Moreover, measures that may be added in a 2018 draft law could consist of criminalizing street harassment and increasing the statute of limitation for the rape of minors to 30 years from 20 years The leader further said that he may propose to set the age for sexual consent to 15 as there is no such law yet in the country. Further, changes may be made to administer rape and assault cases and create portals for victims to file complaints online before going to the police. Measure like 'on demand' bus stops will also be proposed, wherein women will be allowed to stop the bus at any point to get home safely French feminist group Osez le Féminisme said the measures were going in the right direction but must be accompanied by adequate funding. “Without funding, any communication, training, awareness or help plan for the victims will be useless,” the statement said. The conference also had a number of past victims who survived similar cases - a women who survived from being stabbed by her ex-partner, a mother of a student who was killed by her partner and set fire to her body after she ended the relationship, a Moroccan immigrant whose abusive husband burned down their home after she found the courage to flee to safety with their children, a Nigerian who was trafficked into a prostitution ring the day she set foot in Italy - were amongst some. Nearly 225,000 women are said to have been victims of physical or sexual violence by their partner in France, but fewer than one in five have made a complaint to authorities. The Harvey Weinstein scandal in the United States has accelerated a rethink of attitudes toward sexual harassment in France, a country that cherishes its self-image as the land of seduction and romance.

France's Macron unveils plan to combat 'shameful' violence against women

French President Emmanuel Macron came under fire after a remark directed against union activists fuelled accusations from opponents that he shows contempt for disgruntled workers.

The pro-business president made the comment Wednesday while visiting the central town of Egletons, referring to trade unionists who clashed with police during a rally against layoffs at the region&#39;s GM&amp;S auto parts plant.

&quot;Some, instead of stirring up shit, would be better off looking for work&quot; at a foundry in Ussel, Macron said. The foundry, 140 kilometres (85 miles) from the auto plant, is struggling to find workers.

Macron said Thursday that he was &quot;standing by the substance&quot; of his remarks -- which were made in conversation with a regional official -- and would have chosen his words differently in a more formal context.

Government spokesman Christophe Castaner conceded to BFMTV the choice of language used was &quot;surprising coming from the mouth of a president of the republic.&quot;

&quot;The French use these words all the time,&quot; said Castaner, adding that Macron had aimed the comment at a union delegation which had &quot;decided to disrupt the visit.

Macron spokesman Bruno Roger-Petit insisted the president was not aware he was on camera at the time. &nbsp;

Macron&#39;s comment follows several others seen as dismissive of ordinary people or critics, contributing to a steep drop in popularity for the 39-year-old centrist since his election in May.

Last month, days before a union-led protest against his flagship labour reforms, Macron said he would not back down &quot;to slackers, cynics and extremists&quot;.

His words became a rallying cry for protesters who coined slogans such as &quot;Slackers of the world, unite!&quot;

He had previously raised eyebrows by drawing a distinction between &quot;people who succeed and people who are nothing&quot;.

&quot;Macron does it again,&quot; the opposition Socialist Party said in a tweet on Wednesday, calling on the president to &quot;watch his language and respect the French people&quot;.&nbsp;

A lawmaker of the hard-left France Unbowed party, Adrien Quatennens, said Macron &quot;doesn&#39;t know what it means to look for work&quot;.

Mainstream politicians also joined the attack.

Secretary general of the liberal centre-right Republicans Bernard Accoyer said Macron was &quot;president of all the French and the first requirement is respect for all our compatriots whoever they may be -- and in particular those who are in difficulty.&quot;

Accoyer&#39;s party colleague Christian Jacob accused Macron of &quot;arrogance&quot; and of being a leader &quot;who cannot take the least challenge.&quot;

Macron has sought to restore lost prestige to the presidency, hosting events in grandiose settings such as the former royal palace in Versailles and likening his role to that of Jupiter, king of the Roman gods.

The former investment banker&#39;s ambitious agenda includes labour reforms pushed through by decree, with critics seizing on his use of executive orders as an example of an autocratic leadership style.

Macron is also planning major tax cuts for the wealthy, forcing him to fend off accusations that he is a &quot;president of the rich&quot;.

France&#39;s youngest president sees the tax cuts as essential to spurring investment and stemming the exodus of millionaires such as actor Gerard Depardieu and ageing rocker Johnny Hallyday.

Wednesday&#39;s remark &quot;further alienates the president by bolstering the image of heavy-handedness and indifference to the least fortunate,&quot; said Emmanuel Riviere of the Sofres polling institute.

Political scientist Jerome Sainte-Marie told AFP it &quot;was not very good in terms of popularity, but that won&#39;t prevent him from passing reforms -- he has overwhelming power.&quot;

Macron insists he has a mandate for change after his presidential win was followed by a thumping parliamentary victory for his Republic on the Move (LREM) party.

Three demonstrations over his labour reforms failed to mobilise the huge crowds that marched against his Socialist predecessor Francois Hollande&#39;s workplace changes.

"Some, instead of stirring up shit, would be better off looking for work" at a foundry in Ussel, Macron had said.

French President Emmanuel Macron came under fire after a remark directed against union activists fuelled accusations from opponents that he shows contempt for disgruntled workers. The pro-business president made the comment Wednesday while visiting the central town of Egletons, referring to trade unionists who clashed with police during a rally against layoffs at the region's GM&S auto parts plant. "Some, instead of stirring up shit, would be better off looking for work" at a foundry in Ussel, Macron said. The foundry, 140 kilometres (85 miles) from the auto plant, is struggling to find workers. Macron said Thursday that he was "standing by the substance" of his remarks -- which were made in conversation with a regional official -- and would have chosen his words differently in a more formal context. Government spokesman Christophe Castaner conceded to BFMTV the choice of language used was "surprising coming from the mouth of a president of the republic." "The French use these words all the time," said Castaner, adding that Macron had aimed the comment at a union delegation which had "decided to disrupt the visit. Macron spokesman Bruno Roger-Petit insisted the president was not aware he was on camera at the time. Macron's comment follows several others seen as dismissive of ordinary people or critics, contributing to a steep drop in popularity for the 39-year-old centrist since his election in May. Last month, days before a union-led protest against his flagship labour reforms, Macron said he would not back down "to slackers, cynics and extremists". His words became a rallying cry for protesters who coined slogans such as "Slackers of the world, unite!" He had previously raised eyebrows by drawing a distinction between "people who succeed and people who are nothing". "Macron does it again," the opposition Socialist Party said in a tweet on Wednesday, calling on the president to "watch his language and respect the French people". A lawmaker of the hard-left France Unbowed party, Adrien Quatennens, said Macron "doesn't know what it means to look for work". Mainstream politicians also joined the attack. Secretary general of the liberal centre-right Republicans Bernard Accoyer said Macron was "president of all the French and the first requirement is respect for all our compatriots whoever they may be -- and in particular those who are in difficulty." Accoyer's party colleague Christian Jacob accused Macron of "arrogance" and of being a leader "who cannot take the least challenge." Macron has sought to restore lost prestige to the presidency, hosting events in grandiose settings such as the former royal palace in Versailles and likening his role to that of Jupiter, king of the Roman gods. The former investment banker's ambitious agenda includes labour reforms pushed through by decree, with critics seizing on his use of executive orders as an example of an autocratic leadership style. Macron is also planning major tax cuts for the wealthy, forcing him to fend off accusations that he is a "president of the rich". France's youngest president sees the tax cuts as essential to spurring investment and stemming the exodus of millionaires such as actor Gerard Depardieu and ageing rocker Johnny Hallyday. Wednesday's remark "further alienates the president by bolstering the image of heavy-handedness and indifference to the least fortunate," said Emmanuel Riviere of the Sofres polling institute. Political scientist Jerome Sainte-Marie told AFP it "was not very good in terms of popularity, but that won't prevent him from passing reforms -- he has overwhelming power." Macron insists he has a mandate for change after his presidential win was followed by a thumping parliamentary victory for his Republic on the Move (LREM) party. Three demonstrations over his labour reforms failed to mobilise the huge crowds that marched against his Socialist predecessor Francois Hollande's workplace changes.

Macron should watch his language, tweets French Socialist Party

President Donald Trump held the door open to a reversal of his decision to pull the United States out of the Paris climate accord on Thursday, but did not say what he would need in return to persuade him to do so.

Trump,&nbsp;who has made few friends in Europe with his rejection of the 2015 Paris agreement and his &quot;America First&quot; trade stance,&nbsp;met with French President Emmanuel Macron as both leaders sought common ground to reset an awkward relationship.

&quot;Something could happen with respect to the Paris accords, let&#39;s see what happens,&quot; Trump told a news conference. &quot;If it happens, that will be wonderful, and if it doesn&#39;t, that&#39;ll be OK too.&quot;

Trump has said the Paris accord is soft on leading polluters like China and India, putting US industry at risk.

&quot;I respect the wish to preserve jobs, I think that&#39;s compatible with the Paris accord,&quot; Macron said at the joint conference.

&quot;There is no sudden and unexpected change today, otherwise we would have announced it, but there is the shared intention to continue discussing these issues,&quot; the French president added.&nbsp; 
 
Trump and Macron&#39;s relationship got off to a bumpy start,&nbsp;but both have an incentive to improve relations - Macron hopes to elevate France&#39;s role in global affairs,&nbsp;and Trump, seemingly isolated among world leaders,&nbsp;needs a friend overseas.

Trump came to France beset by allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 US&nbsp;election, with emails released on Tuesday suggesting his eldest son welcomed an offer of Russian help against his father&#39;s Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.

Weeks after Macron hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Palace of Versailles,&nbsp;Trump will bask in the trappings of the Bastille Day military parade on Friday and commemorations of the entry 100 years ago of US&nbsp;troops into World War One.&nbsp;

Macron welcomed Trump with a warm handshake and smiles, a contrast to the clenched-jaw greeting they shared at their first encounter in May.

&quot;Emmanuel, nice to see you. This is so beautiful,&quot; the US president told Macron as they met at the Hotel des Invalides where Napoleon Bonaparte and other French war heroes are buried.

Syria cooperation

For the 39-year-old Macron, France&#39;s youngest leader since Napoleon two centuries ago,&nbsp;the visit is a chance to use soft diplomacy to win Trump&#39;s confidence and set about influencing US foreign policy,&nbsp;which European leaders say lacks direction.

Macron views it as counter-productive to isolate the United States on the world stage,&nbsp;and said he and Trump had asked diplomats to draw up in the coming weeks a concrete initiative aimed at preparing the future of Syria.

&quot;On the Iraq-Syria situation, we have agreed to continue working together, in particular on the building of a roadmap for the post-war period,&quot; Macron said.

Trump said work was underway to negotiate a ceasefire in a second region of Syria.

On Friday,&nbsp;Trump will be guest of honour at France&#39;s July 14 celebrations, a year after a Tunisian man loyal to Islamic State ploughed a truck through revellers on a seafront promenade in Nice, killing more than 80.

During the US election campaign,&nbsp;Trump said a wave of militant attacks showed &quot;France is no longer France&quot;, and reprimanded the then-Socialist government for allegedly bowing its head to jihadists.

In bringing Trump to Paris, Macron has stolen a march on Britain`s embattled Prime Minister Theresa May.

London&#39;s offer of a state visit for Trump met fierce domestic criticism and warnings that he would be greeted by mass protests.

An Elabe poll showed that 59 per cent of French people approved of Macron&#39;s decision to invite Trump. 
&nbsp;

The US President said 'something could happen' with respect to the 2015 Paris accord

President Donald Trump held the door open to a reversal of his decision to pull the United States out of the Paris climate accord on Thursday, but did not say what he would need in return to persuade him to do so. Trump, who has made few friends in Europe with his rejection of the 2015 Paris agreement and his "America First" trade stance, met with French President Emmanuel Macron as both leaders sought common ground to reset an awkward relationship. "Something could happen with respect to the Paris accords, let's see what happens," Trump told a news conference. "If it happens, that will be wonderful, and if it doesn't, that'll be OK too." Trump has said the Paris accord is soft on leading polluters like China and India, putting US industry at risk. "I respect the wish to preserve jobs, I think that's compatible with the Paris accord," Macron said at the joint conference. "There is no sudden and unexpected change today, otherwise we would have announced it, but there is the shared intention to continue discussing these issues," the French president added. Trump and Macron's relationship got off to a bumpy start, but both have an incentive to improve relations - Macron hopes to elevate France's role in global affairs, and Trump, seemingly isolated among world leaders, needs a friend overseas. Trump came to France beset by allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 US election, with emails released on Tuesday suggesting his eldest son welcomed an offer of Russian help against his father's Democratic rival Hillary Clinton. Weeks after Macron hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Palace of Versailles, Trump will bask in the trappings of the Bastille Day military parade on Friday and commemorations of the entry 100 years ago of US troops into World War One. Macron welcomed Trump with a warm handshake and smiles, a contrast to the clenched-jaw greeting they shared at their first encounter in May. "Emmanuel, nice to see you. This is so beautiful," the US president told Macron as they met at the Hotel des Invalides where Napoleon Bonaparte and other French war heroes are buried. Syria cooperation For the 39-year-old Macron, France's youngest leader since Napoleon two centuries ago, the visit is a chance to use soft diplomacy to win Trump's confidence and set about influencing US foreign policy, which European leaders say lacks direction. Macron views it as counter-productive to isolate the United States on the world stage, and said he and Trump had asked diplomats to draw up in the coming weeks a concrete initiative aimed at preparing the future of Syria. "On the Iraq-Syria situation, we have agreed to continue working together, in particular on the building of a roadmap for the post-war period," Macron said. Trump said work was underway to negotiate a ceasefire in a second region of Syria. On Friday, Trump will be guest of honour at France's July 14 celebrations, a year after a Tunisian man loyal to Islamic State ploughed a truck through revellers on a seafront promenade in Nice, killing more than 80. During the US election campaign, Trump said a wave of militant attacks showed "France is no longer France", and reprimanded the then-Socialist government for allegedly bowing its head to jihadists. In bringing Trump to Paris, Macron has stolen a march on Britain`s embattled Prime Minister Theresa May. London's offer of a state visit for Trump met fierce domestic criticism and warnings that he would be greeted by mass protests. An Elabe poll showed that 59 per cent of French people approved of Macron's decision to invite Trump.

Trump hints he could change position on climate pact

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday he had not given up on trying to get US counterpart Donald Trump to change his mind about withdrawing the United States from the Paris climate change agreement.

The final statement from the Group of 20 leaders meeting in Hamburg on Saturday exposed the divide that remains between the United States and other G20 members on the 2015 Paris accord aimed at combating climate change.

But Macron also said he would host a summit on December&nbsp;12 to move the Paris deal forward.

&quot;On Dec. 12, two years after the Paris (climate) agreement, I will, therefore, convene a summit to take further action on climate, notably on the financial front,&quot; Macron told reporters.

He said that the summit would aim to mobilise private and public financing for the projects committed to under the Paris agreement.

Asked if he was trying to persuade Trump to change his mind on the climate deal, Macro said: &quot;I never despair to convince, because I think it is a duty, given my position, and it is a trait of my character&quot;.

Macron and Trump met during the G20 summit in Hamburg and Trump will travel to France for the Bastille Day military parade on July 14.

?Macron?said he would host a summit on December?12 to move the Paris deal forward.The summit would aim to mobilise private and public financing for the projects committed to under the Paris agreement

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday he had not given up on trying to get US counterpart Donald Trump to change his mind about withdrawing the United States from the Paris climate change agreement. The final statement from the Group of 20 leaders meeting in Hamburg on Saturday exposed the divide that remains between the United States and other G20 members on the 2015 Paris accord aimed at combating climate change. But Macron also said he would host a summit on December 12 to move the Paris deal forward. "On Dec. 12, two years after the Paris (climate) agreement, I will, therefore, convene a summit to take further action on climate, notably on the financial front," Macron told reporters. He said that the summit would aim to mobilise private and public financing for the projects committed to under the Paris agreement. Asked if he was trying to persuade Trump to change his mind on the climate deal, Macro said: "I never despair to convince, because I think it is a duty, given my position, and it is a trait of my character". Macron and Trump met during the G20 summit in Hamburg and Trump will travel to France for the Bastille Day military parade on July 14.

Macron says will continue to press Trump on Paris climate accord

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday reappointed Edouard Philippe as prime minister after the weekend&#39;s legislative run-off vote and asked him to form the next government, sources at Macron&#39;s office said.

Sunday&#39;s vote saw Macron&#39;s centrist group, the Republic on the Move (REM), secure a massive victory in the National Assembly, giving him a mandate to pursue a pro-EU, business-friendly agenda.

Philippe has been asked to unveil the new government by Wednesday 1600 GMT, the sources said.

Macron, 39, became France&#39;s youngest president in May after a tumultuous campaign in which the mainstream left and conservative parties lost ground and the far-right National Front failed to make a much-touted breakthrough.

Macron&#39;s election was followed, as scheduled, by legislative elections.

REM and its centrist ally MoDem won 350 seats in the 577-seat assembly. The conservative opposition, the Republicans, won a total of 130 seats with their allies.&nbsp;

The Socialist Party party of Macron&#39;s predecessor, Francois Hollande, lost more than 250 seats, obtaining just 30.

Sunday's vote saw Macron's centrist group, the Republic on the Move (REM), secure a massive victory in the National Assembly, giving him a mandate to pursue a pro-EU, business-friendly agenda

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday reappointed Edouard Philippe as prime minister after the weekend's legislative run-off vote and asked him to form the next government, sources at Macron's office said. Sunday's vote saw Macron's centrist group, the Republic on the Move (REM), secure a massive victory in the National Assembly, giving him a mandate to pursue a pro-EU, business-friendly agenda. Philippe has been asked to unveil the new government by Wednesday 1600 GMT, the sources said. Macron, 39, became France's youngest president in May after a tumultuous campaign in which the mainstream left and conservative parties lost ground and the far-right National Front failed to make a much-touted breakthrough. Macron's election was followed, as scheduled, by legislative elections. REM and its centrist ally MoDem won 350 seats in the 577-seat assembly. The conservative opposition, the Republicans, won a total of 130 seats with their allies. The Socialist Party party of Macron's predecessor, Francois Hollande, lost more than 250 seats, obtaining just 30.

France's Macron reappoints Edouard Philippe as PM after Sunday's vote

French President Emmanuel Macron&#39;s centrist party won a massive majority in parliamentary elections on Sunday, early projections showed, dominating the country&#39;s traditional forces in a dramatic re-drawing of the political map.

Macron&#39;s year-old Republic on the Move (REM) and their allies were set to win between 355 and 425 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, according to partial results after the second round of an election in which many high-profile figures were thrown out.

The result, if confirmed, would give 39-year-old Macron one of France&#39;s biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his business-friendly, pro-EU programme.

But turnout was estimated to be extremely low, at around 44 percent, giving his critics grounds to claim he has no groundswell of support.

The assembly is set to be transformed with a new generation of lawmakers -- younger, more ethnically diverse and with far more women than the outgoing parliament.

The scale of the change is forecast to be so large that some observers have compared the overhaul to 1958, the start of the present presidential system, or even the post-war rebirth of French democracy in 1945.

Desire for change

Just months ago, Macron was given little chance of becoming president, never mind dominating parliament, but he and the movement he founded 16 months ago have tapped into widespread desire for wholesale change.

His party dominated France&#39;s traditional parties, the rightwing Republicans and Socialists, but also the far-right National Front (FN) of defeated presidential candidate Marine Le Pen which fell far short of its target.

The Socialists were the biggest losers of the night, punished by association with years of high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence.

The party lost around 200 seats after five years in power under former president Francois Hollande, leaving them with only around 27 to 49 seats.

The Republicans hung on to between 97 and 130 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party.

Le Pen&#39;s FN were only expected to win four to eight seats but she was elected an MP.

But despite the zest for political renewal, the vote failed to generate much excitement.

Official statistics showed turnout at a near 60-year low, revealing a high degree of election fatigue after four votes in under two months.

&quot;People are tired of always seeing the same faces,&quot; said Natacha Dumay, a 59-year-old teacher voting in the northeastern Paris suburb of Pantin where Socialist former justice minister Elisabeth Guigou was voted out a week ago.

&quot;Even if we don&#39;t know the new faces it&#39;s not important. We&#39;re not voting for individuals but for a programme,&quot; Dumay added.

Virtual unknowns

Turnout will be closely watched after it hit a near 60-year low in the June 11 first round of voting, leading some to warn Macron that his mandate is not as strong as he thinks.

REM won 32 percent of the votes cast in the first round, but this represented only about 15 percent of registered voters.

&quot;Go and vote!&quot; Prime Minister Edouard Philippe urged on Thursday, calling it both &quot;a right and a responsibility&quot;.

Around half of REM&#39;s candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism. They include a mathematician, a female bullfighter and a former Rwandan orphan.&nbsp;

The other half are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians drawn from established parties including ally MoDem.

Le Pen aims for seat

Le Pen&#39;s victory was a rare bright spot for Le Pen&#39;s nationalist and anti-EU party which was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron but is now expected to have only a handful of lawmakers.

The hard-left France Unbowed is also struggling to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, the firebrand leader of the movement, is running for election in the southern city of Marseille on a promise to lead resistance to Macron&#39;s radical labour market reforms.

Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans measures to deepen European integration and an overhaul of the social security system.

He has vowed to take on French unions by creating a system of &quot;flexi-security&quot; inspired by Scandinavian countries which combines a solid state-funded safety net with company-friendly legislation.&nbsp;

His confident start at home, where he has concentrated on trying to restore the lost prestige of the president, and his decisive action on the international stage has led to a host of positive headlines.

Macron's year-old Republic on the Move and their allies were set to win between 355 and 425 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, according to partial results after the second round of elections

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party won a massive majority in parliamentary elections on Sunday, early projections showed, dominating the country's traditional forces in a dramatic re-drawing of the political map. Macron's year-old Republic on the Move (REM) and their allies were set to win between 355 and 425 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, according to partial results after the second round of an election in which many high-profile figures were thrown out. The result, if confirmed, would give 39-year-old Macron one of France's biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his business-friendly, pro-EU programme. But turnout was estimated to be extremely low, at around 44 percent, giving his critics grounds to claim he has no groundswell of support. The assembly is set to be transformed with a new generation of lawmakers -- younger, more ethnically diverse and with far more women than the outgoing parliament. The scale of the change is forecast to be so large that some observers have compared the overhaul to 1958, the start of the present presidential system, or even the post-war rebirth of French democracy in 1945. Desire for change Just months ago, Macron was given little chance of becoming president, never mind dominating parliament, but he and the movement he founded 16 months ago have tapped into widespread desire for wholesale change. His party dominated France's traditional parties, the rightwing Republicans and Socialists, but also the far-right National Front (FN) of defeated presidential candidate Marine Le Pen which fell far short of its target. The Socialists were the biggest losers of the night, punished by association with years of high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence. The party lost around 200 seats after five years in power under former president Francois Hollande, leaving them with only around 27 to 49 seats. The Republicans hung on to between 97 and 130 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party. Le Pen's FN were only expected to win four to eight seats but she was elected an MP. But despite the zest for political renewal, the vote failed to generate much excitement. Official statistics showed turnout at a near 60-year low, revealing a high degree of election fatigue after four votes in under two months. "People are tired of always seeing the same faces," said Natacha Dumay, a 59-year-old teacher voting in the northeastern Paris suburb of Pantin where Socialist former justice minister Elisabeth Guigou was voted out a week ago. "Even if we don't know the new faces it's not important. We're not voting for individuals but for a programme," Dumay added. Virtual unknowns Turnout will be closely watched after it hit a near 60-year low in the June 11 first round of voting, leading some to warn Macron that his mandate is not as strong as he thinks. REM won 32 percent of the votes cast in the first round, but this represented only about 15 percent of registered voters. "Go and vote!" Prime Minister Edouard Philippe urged on Thursday, calling it both "a right and a responsibility". Around half of REM's candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism. They include a mathematician, a female bullfighter and a former Rwandan orphan. The other half are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians drawn from established parties including ally MoDem. Le Pen aims for seat Le Pen's victory was a rare bright spot for Le Pen's nationalist and anti-EU party which was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron but is now expected to have only a handful of lawmakers. The hard-left France Unbowed is also struggling to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election. Jean-Luc Melenchon, the firebrand leader of the movement, is running for election in the southern city of Marseille on a promise to lead resistance to Macron's radical labour market reforms. Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans measures to deepen European integration and an overhaul of the social security system. He has vowed to take on French unions by creating a system of "flexi-security" inspired by Scandinavian countries which combines a solid state-funded safety net with company-friendly legislation. His confident start at home, where he has concentrated on trying to restore the lost prestige of the president, and his decisive action on the international stage has led to a host of positive headlines.

Macron party wins massive majority in French parliament

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