Monaco has been named the most expensive city globally for property prices, according to the latest report from New World Wealth by Henley & Partners. 

Monaco, New York, London and more: List of world's most luxurious places to live

Ukrainian President Volodymyr <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-us-eu-trade-deal-or-imec-corridor-what-will-meloni-trump-discuss-today-during-talks-in-washington-8973403">Zelensky</a>&nbsp;on Thursday (April 17) blamed US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff for "spreading Russian narratives" about the Ukraine war.&nbsp;
Zelensky had strained relations with the US after he got himself into a war of words with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. However, after putting some effort in the past week, the relations have "probably" come back to normal.&nbsp;
Today again, during a news conference in Kyiv, Zelensky attacked Trump's envoy Witkoff, stressing that Ukraine would not discuss territorial questions until a ceasefire was put in place.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/put-pressure-on-the-killers-zelensky-urges-partners-ahead-of-us-eu-talks-in-paris-to-end-ukraine-war-8972393">&lsquo;Put pressure on the killers&rsquo;: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war</a>
Currently, US envoy Steve Witkoff and US state secretary Marco Rubio are holding second round of meetings at the &Eacute;lys&eacute;e Palace with a group of European partners, talking with senior representatives of the British, French German, and Ukrainian administrations.
<h2>Minerals deal could be signed today</h2>
Zelensky also said that Ukraine could sign the minerals deal memorandum with the US today during an online meeting.&nbsp;
Trump has been pushing for a deal that would allow the US to share in profits of Ukraine's rare earth minerals and natural resources.&nbsp;
The two leaders were supposed to sign the deal during Zelensky's visit to the US, however, it got postponed after Trump and Zelensky got into a spat at the White House.&nbsp;
Zelenskyy previously accused the US of "constantly" changing the terms of the proposed deal, but he added he did not want Washington to think Kyiv was against it.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peace-talks-not-easy-nato-chief-mark-rutte-says-during-meeting-with-zelensky-in-odesa-8965818">US-led peace talks &lsquo;not easy&rsquo;: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa</a>
<h2>China supplying Russia with artillery</h2>
The Ukrainian president said that Ukraine has evidence of China supplying Russia with artillery and gunpowder.
He claimed that Beijing is helping with certain weapons production on Russian territory.
"We believe that Chinese representatives are engaged in the production of some weapons on the territory of Russia," he said at a news conference in Kyiv.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-double-whammy-for-zelensky-missiles-from-putin-brickbats-from-trump-8966060">Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin &amp; brickbats from Trump</a>
&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Zelensky attacked Trump's envoy Witkoff, stressing that Ukraine would not discuss territorial questions until a ceasefire was put in place. WORLD

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (April 17) blamed US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff for "spreading Russian narratives" about the Ukraine war. Zelensky had strained relations with the US after he got himself into a war of words with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. However, after putting some effort in the past week, the relations have "probably" come back to normal. Today again, during a news conference in Kyiv, Zelensky attacked Trump's envoy Witkoff, stressing that Ukraine would not discuss territorial questions until a ceasefire was put in place. Also read: ‘Put pressure on the killers’: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war Currently, US envoy Steve Witkoff and US state secretary Marco Rubio are holding second round of meetings at the Élysée Palace with a group of European partners, talking with senior representatives of the British, French German, and Ukrainian administrations. Minerals deal could be signed today Zelensky also said that Ukraine could sign the minerals deal memorandum with the US today during an online meeting. Trump has been pushing for a deal that would allow the US to share in profits of Ukraine's rare earth minerals and natural resources. The two leaders were supposed to sign the deal during Zelensky's visit to the US, however, it got postponed after Trump and Zelensky got into a spat at the White House. Zelenskyy previously accused the US of "constantly" changing the terms of the proposed deal, but he added he did not want Washington to think Kyiv was against it. Also read: US-led peace talks ‘not easy’: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa China supplying Russia with artillery The Ukrainian president said that Ukraine has evidence of China supplying Russia with artillery and gunpowder. He claimed that Beijing is helping with certain weapons production on Russian territory. "We believe that Chinese representatives are engaged in the production of some weapons on the territory of Russia," he said at a news conference in Kyiv. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin & brickbats from Trump

'US envoy spreading Russian narratives': Zelensky blames Witkoff, says Ukraine-US minerals deal could be signed today

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Apr 17) urged to &ldquo;put pressure&rdquo; on Russian &ldquo;killers&rdquo; to end the three-year war. Ukrainian leader&rsquo;s remarks come ahead of the Paris visit by his top aide for talks with US and EU officials on the conflict.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Russia uses every day and every night to kill. We must put pressure on the killers ... to end this war and guarantee a lasting peace,&rdquo; Zelensky said in a Telegram post. This comes after Russia carried out overnight strikes across Ukraine, including a drone attack on Dnipro that killed three and injured more than 30 late Wednesday (Apr 16).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peace-talks-not-easy-nato-chief-mark-rutte-says-during-meeting-with-zelensky-in-odesa-8965818">US-led peace talks &lsquo;not easy&rsquo;: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa</a>
Russia&rsquo;s latest strikes in Ukraine include attacks in the cities of Sumy and Kryvyi Rig that killed dozens, including children. Despite a series of diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire, the fighting has continued.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-vances-relationship-hits-new-low-us-vp-hits-back-after-ukraine-accuses-us-of-siding-with-russia-8965615">'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance&rsquo;s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia</a>
<h2>US, EU Paris talks</h2>
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. US envoy Steve Witkoff is also expected to join them.
Top Ukrainian officials are also to meet US and EU delegations in the French capital, said Zelensky's chief of staff, without specifying who they were meeting.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-started-it-biden-blew-it-zelenskys-incompetent-trump-blames-three-people-for-millions-of-deaths-in-ukraine-war-8962151">&lsquo;Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent&rsquo;: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war</a>
The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire, as Washington and Europe seek common ground on ending the war in Ukraine. The latest diplomatic initiative comes as US President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire to quickly end the war.
The Ukrainian president has urged Paris talks participants to lean on Russia to agree to a ceasefire.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin &amp; brickbats from Trump
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1504_ARJUN_ZELENSKY_830PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1504_ARJUN_ZELENSKY_830PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=316&amp;tags=Russia, Ukraine, World News, WION" title="Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin &amp; brickbats from Trump" id="PL_iframe_block-m9l9tpov-juhho64u-9ivcsdmk"></iframe>
Macron has taken the lead in seeking to form a coordinated European response to defending Ukraine.
According to his office, the purpose of the Paris talks was to &ldquo;review progress on peace negotiations aimed at ending the Russian aggression in Ukraine.&rdquo;

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire. World

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Apr 17) urged to “put pressure” on Russian “killers” to end the three-year war. Ukrainian leader’s remarks come ahead of the Paris visit by his top aide for talks with US and EU officials on the conflict. “Russia uses every day and every night to kill. We must put pressure on the killers ... to end this war and guarantee a lasting peace,” Zelensky said in a Telegram post. This comes after Russia carried out overnight strikes across Ukraine, including a drone attack on Dnipro that killed three and injured more than 30 late Wednesday (Apr 16). Also read | US-led peace talks ‘not easy’: NATO chief Mark Rutte says during meeting with Zelensky in Odesa Russia’s latest strikes in Ukraine include attacks in the cities of Sumy and Kryvyi Rig that killed dozens, including children. Despite a series of diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire, the fighting has continued. Also read | 'Sort of absurd': Zelensky, Vance’s relationship hits new low; US VP hits back after Ukraine accuses US of siding with Russia US, EU Paris talks US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia Keith Kellogg arrived in Paris on Thursday (Apr 17) to hold meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron. US envoy Steve Witkoff is also expected to join them. Top Ukrainian officials are also to meet US and EU delegations in the French capital, said Zelensky's chief of staff, without specifying who they were meeting. Also read | ‘Putin started it, Biden blew it, Zelensky's incompetent’: Trump blames 'three people' for millions of deaths in Ukraine war The talks will focus on crafting a Ukraine ceasefire, as Washington and Europe seek common ground on ending the war in Ukraine. The latest diplomatic initiative comes as US President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire to quickly end the war. The Ukrainian president has urged Paris talks participants to lean on Russia to agree to a ceasefire. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Double whammy for Zelensky: Missiles from Putin & brickbats from Trump Macron has taken the lead in seeking to form a coordinated European response to defending Ukraine. According to his office, the purpose of the Paris talks was to “review progress on peace negotiations aimed at ending the Russian aggression in Ukraine.”

‘Put pressure on the killers’: Zelensky urges partners ahead of US, EU talks in Paris to end Ukraine war

What is taller than Paris's Eiffel Tower? Yes, there is something you might have not heard about yet. China is set to reveal the world's tallest bridge, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, a two-mile-long bridge over a huge canyon.&nbsp;
The bridge will be more than 200 metres taller than the Paris Eiffel Tower. The great masterpiece by China is scheduled to open in June.&nbsp;
The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge cost &pound; 216,000,000, according to a report by The Metro.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-worlds-tallest-and-shortest-women-meet-in-london-for-afternoon-tea-778058">Watch | World&rsquo;s tallest and shortest women meet in London for afternoon tea</a>
Chinese politician Zhang Shenglin said that this project, spanning the "Earth's crack" will showcase China's engineering capabilities and boost Guizhou's goal of becoming a world-class tourist destination.&nbsp;
<h2>'Equal to three Eiffel Towers'</h2>
Moreover, the bridge's steel trusses weigh about 22,000 metric tons, which is equal to three Eiffel Towers, according to the report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/if-you-think-mount-everest-is-the-tallest-mountain-youre-wrong-760961">If you think Mount Everest is the tallest mountain, you&rsquo;re wrong</a>
&ldquo;Witnessing my work becomes something tangible &mdash; watching the bridge grow day by day and finally stand tall above the canyon &mdash; gives me a profound sense of achievement and pride,&rdquo; chief engineer Li Zhao told the website.&nbsp;
It will also become a top destination for tourists who are planning for residential areas, glass walkways, and the highest bungee jump in the world.
With the ease of the bridge, the travel time for locals will also be reduced from four hours to only one hour.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climbers-bucket-list-race-to-conquer-worlds-tallest-mountains-begins-765698">Climbers' Bucket List: Race To Conquer World's Tallest Mountains Begins</a>
Notably, China is also looking forward to constructing the world's largest dam across the Yarlung Tsangpo River at a cost of &pound;109 billion.
The dam when constructed will provide 300 billion kWh of electricity every year.&nbsp;
The new dam will beat even the Three Gorges Dam which was completed in 2008 and currently powers five million households.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/largest-single-flood-on-earth-replenished-the-mediterranean-5-million-years-ago-8954575">Largest single flood on Earth happened 5 million years ago, and filled an empty Mediterranean Sea</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese politician said, spanning the "Earth's crack" will show China's engineering skills, boosting Guizhou's goal of becoming world-class tourist destination. World

What is taller than Paris's Eiffel Tower? Yes, there is something you might have not heard about yet. China is set to reveal the world's tallest bridge, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, a two-mile-long bridge over a huge canyon. The bridge will be more than 200 metres taller than the Paris Eiffel Tower. The great masterpiece by China is scheduled to open in June. The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge cost £ 216,000,000, according to a report by The Metro. Also read: Watch | World’s tallest and shortest women meet in London for afternoon tea Chinese politician Zhang Shenglin said that this project, spanning the "Earth's crack" will showcase China's engineering capabilities and boost Guizhou's goal of becoming a world-class tourist destination. 'Equal to three Eiffel Towers' Moreover, the bridge's steel trusses weigh about 22,000 metric tons, which is equal to three Eiffel Towers, according to the report. Also read: If you think Mount Everest is the tallest mountain, you’re wrong “Witnessing my work becomes something tangible — watching the bridge grow day by day and finally stand tall above the canyon — gives me a profound sense of achievement and pride,” chief engineer Li Zhao told the website. It will also become a top destination for tourists who are planning for residential areas, glass walkways, and the highest bungee jump in the world. With the ease of the bridge, the travel time for locals will also be reduced from four hours to only one hour. WATCH | Climbers' Bucket List: Race To Conquer World's Tallest Mountains Begins Notably, China is also looking forward to constructing the world's largest dam across the Yarlung Tsangpo River at a cost of £109 billion. The dam when constructed will provide 300 billion kWh of electricity every year. The new dam will beat even the Three Gorges Dam which was completed in 2008 and currently powers five million households. Also read: Largest single flood on Earth happened 5 million years ago, and filled an empty Mediterranean Sea (With inputs from agencies)

China to open world's tallest bridge: Highest bungee jump to lesser travel time | Here's all you need to know

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen could contest the 2027 presidential election if her conviction is overturned. A French court said it will examine her case within a timeframe, and the new trial could be held by early 2026.

Embezzlement case: Le Pen says will appeal against this 'politically motivated' verdict

If you are a Wes Anderson fan, this is something you would like to know. An exhibition devoted to the work of filmmaker Wes Anderson has opened for the public in Paris. It is titled Wes Anderson Exhibit. The exhibition follows the chronological evolution of his work, featuring costumes and props, detailed storyboards, workbooks, script archives, and preliminary drawings.

Celebrating Wes Anderson at the Parisian Film Museum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that this is the time for businesses to come to India as the country is working towards the goal of "Viksit Bharat" by 2047.&nbsp;
While addressing the CEOs forum, PM Modi said that this is a confluence of the best business minds of India and France.&nbsp;
"This is a confluence of the best business minds of India and France. I welcome the report of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ai-summit" rel="dofollow">Summit </a>presented just now. I see that all of you are working with the mantra of innovating, collaborating and integrating. You are not just building connections, you are also strengthening the India-France strategic partnership," he said.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-highlights-ais-blind-spot-why-ai-struggles-to-depict-left-handed-writing-8711409" rel="dofollow"> PM Modi highlights AI&rsquo;s blind spot: Why AI struggles to depict left-handed writing</a>
PM Modi further highlighted India's achievements in AI, space technology and the Make in India programme to improve employment in the country.&nbsp;
He stressed that India is working with the target of 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047. "This sector has also been opened up for the private sector. We're also focusing on SMR and AMR technologies," PM Modi added.&nbsp;
<h2>Jaishankar urges CEOs to weigh in on FTA negotiations&nbsp;</h2>
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar urged the CEOs to weigh in on FTA negotiations.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-canadas-trudeau-smirk-at-pm-modi-during-his-speech-at-ai-summit-in-paris-8711096" rel="dofollow"> WATCH | Did Canada's Trudeau smirk at PM Modi during his speech at AI Summit in Paris?</a>
"We need to shape the global discourse in this key domain (AI); only a multipolar world can ensure that AI develops with the least bias. We need diversified production, reliable and resilient supply chains, and deeper business collaborations," he said.&nbsp;
<h2>'There could be issues on trade and immigration'</h2>
Highlighting India-US partnership, Director of South Asia Institute at Wilson Center, Michael Kugelman said that there could be issues on trade and immigration, but since the relationship is "so multi-faceted", it will be able to withstand potential shocks.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-top-quotes-at-ai-action-summit-in-paris-8711106" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">PM Modi's top quotes at AI Action Summit in Paris</a>
India-US has very strong bi-partisan support here in Washington for continued partnership with India, he told news agency ANI.&nbsp;
"Just like when Trump was President the first time, there were a lot of questions about issues that could be taken for granted, when it comes to US foreign policy. If those could be disrupted so to speak. But I think India-US relationship, we can expect a lot of continuity, we can expect not all that many surprises," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-be-careful-about-ai-biases-stresses-pm-modi-at-ai-summit-in-paris-8710575" rel="dofollow">'Need to be careful about AI biases': PM Modi addresses AI Summit in Paris</a>
Trump and his cabinet are really strong proponents of partnership with India, Kugelman said ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: PM Modi further highlighted India's achievements in AI, space technology and the Make in India programme to improve employment in the country. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that this is the time for businesses to come to India as the country is working towards the goal of "Viksit Bharat" by 2047. While addressing the CEOs forum, PM Modi said that this is a confluence of the best business minds of India and France. "This is a confluence of the best business minds of India and France. I welcome the report of the Summit presented just now. I see that all of you are working with the mantra of innovating, collaborating and integrating. You are not just building connections, you are also strengthening the India-France strategic partnership," he said. Also read: PM Modi highlights AI’s blind spot: Why AI struggles to depict left-handed writing PM Modi further highlighted India's achievements in AI, space technology and the Make in India programme to improve employment in the country. He stressed that India is working with the target of 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047. "This sector has also been opened up for the private sector. We're also focusing on SMR and AMR technologies," PM Modi added. Jaishankar urges CEOs to weigh in on FTA negotiations External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar urged the CEOs to weigh in on FTA negotiations. Also read: WATCH | Did Canada's Trudeau smirk at PM Modi during his speech at AI Summit in Paris? "We need to shape the global discourse in this key domain (AI); only a multipolar world can ensure that AI develops with the least bias. We need diversified production, reliable and resilient supply chains, and deeper business collaborations," he said. 'There could be issues on trade and immigration' Highlighting India-US partnership, Director of South Asia Institute at Wilson Center, Michael Kugelman said that there could be issues on trade and immigration, but since the relationship is "so multi-faceted", it will be able to withstand potential shocks. Also read: PM Modi's top quotes at AI Action Summit in Paris India-US has very strong bi-partisan support here in Washington for continued partnership with India, he told news agency ANI. "Just like when Trump was President the first time, there were a lot of questions about issues that could be taken for granted, when it comes to US foreign policy. If those could be disrupted so to speak. But I think India-US relationship, we can expect a lot of continuity, we can expect not all that many surprises," he said. Also read: 'Need to be careful about AI biases': PM Modi addresses AI Summit in Paris Trump and his cabinet are really strong proponents of partnership with India, Kugelman said ahead of PM Modi's visit to the US. (With inputs from agencies)

'Confluence of best business minds of India, France': PM Modi at CEOs Forum in Paris

PM Modi speaks at Paris AI Action Summit, ‘AI can transform millions of lives'. At AI summit PM says we are at the dawn of AI age that will shape the course of humanity. PM stresses on need for deep interdependence across borders that upload shared values. Watch to know more!

Paris AI Summit: PM Modi On AI As Job Disruptor | 'Technology Doesn't Erase Jobs'

As the world leaders attended the AI Action Summit in Paris on Tuesday (Feb 11) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was addressing the Summit it seemed Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was smirking at him. &nbsp;
PM Modi was speaking on the need for AI models to be efficient and sustainable in size.&nbsp;
He said that as India and France advance their partnership to AI, "it is a natural progression from sustainability to innovation to shape a smarter and responsible future."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-be-careful-about-ai-biases-stresses-pm-modi-at-ai-summit-in-paris-8710575" rel="dofollow">'Need to be careful about AI biases', PM Modi addresses AI Summit in Paris</a>
"AI models must also be efficient and sustainable in size, data needs, and resource requirements," he said.&nbsp;
PM Modi added that the human brain manages to compose poetry and design spaceships using less power than most light bulbs.
As he said this, it seemed like Canadian PM Trudeau smirked at PM Modi.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
As France and India advance our partnership... Sustainable AI does not only mean using clean energy. AI models must also be efficient, sustainable in size, data needs, and resources requirements: PM Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AISummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AISummit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModiInFrance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModiInFrance</a> <a href="https://t.co/m0ql734BbY">pic.twitter.com/m0ql734BbY</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1889269980807803390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2025</a></blockquote>
PM Modi further said that AI is writing the code of humanity in the 22nd century, but there are "biases we need to think about."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-warns-against-ai-deals-with-authoritarian-regimes-in-a-jab-at-china-at-paris-summit-8710681" rel="dofollow"> 'Cheap tech': JD Vance warns against AI deals with 'authoritarian regimes' in a jab at China at Paris Summit</a>
PM Modi added there is a deep interdependence across borders and "therefore, there is a need for collective global efforts to establish governance and standards that upload our shared values, address risks, and build trust."
Emphasising that India has one of the world's largest AI talent pools, PM Modi said that the country is leading in AI adoption and techno-legal solutions for data privacy.&nbsp;
"India has successfully built a digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people at a very low cost. It is built around an open and accessible network," he said.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-friend-emmanuel-macron-ahead-of-ai-summit-8709419" rel="dofollow"> Indian PM Narendra Modi meets 'friend' Emmanuel Macron ahead of AI Summit</a>
Amid the rift between India and Canada,&nbsp; Modi and Trudeau were seen sharing the stage together during the G20 Summit in 2024 in Rio de Janeiro.&nbsp;
All the world leaders were together for a group photo at the Museum of Modern Art. PM Modi was seen clasping former US President Joe Biden's hand. While, Trudeau was standing next to Biden.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pm-modi-congratulates-jd-vance-for-us-election-win-great-great-victory-8710012" rel="dofollow">WATCH: PM Modi congratulates JD Vance on US election win. 'Great, great victory'</a>
The tensions between the two countries have simmered since Canada alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot outside a Sikh temple in Canada. India, however, dismissed the accusation as "absurd".&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Emphasising that India has one of the world's largest AI talent pools, PM Modi said that the country is leading in AI adoption and techno-legal solutions for data privacy. 

As the world leaders attended the AI Action Summit in Paris on Tuesday (Feb 11) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was addressing the Summit it seemed Canadian PM Justin Trudeau was smirking at him. PM Modi was speaking on the need for AI models to be efficient and sustainable in size. He said that as India and France advance their partnership to AI, "it is a natural progression from sustainability to innovation to shape a smarter and responsible future." Also read: 'Need to be careful about AI biases', PM Modi addresses AI Summit in Paris "AI models must also be efficient and sustainable in size, data needs, and resource requirements," he said. PM Modi added that the human brain manages to compose poetry and design spaceships using less power than most light bulbs. As he said this, it seemed like Canadian PM Trudeau smirked at PM Modi. As France and India advance our partnership... Sustainable AI does not only mean using clean energy. AI models must also be efficient, sustainable in size, data needs, and resources requirements: PM Modi at #AISummit #PMModiInFrance pic.twitter.com/m0ql734BbY — WION (@WIONews) February 11, 2025 PM Modi further said that AI is writing the code of humanity in the 22nd century, but there are "biases we need to think about." Also read: 'Cheap tech': JD Vance warns against AI deals with 'authoritarian regimes' in a jab at China at Paris Summit PM Modi added there is a deep interdependence across borders and "therefore, there is a need for collective global efforts to establish governance and standards that upload our shared values, address risks, and build trust." Emphasising that India has one of the world's largest AI talent pools, PM Modi said that the country is leading in AI adoption and techno-legal solutions for data privacy. "India has successfully built a digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people at a very low cost. It is built around an open and accessible network," he said. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets 'friend' Emmanuel Macron ahead of AI Summit Amid the rift between India and Canada, Modi and Trudeau were seen sharing the stage together during the G20 Summit in 2024 in Rio de Janeiro. All the world leaders were together for a group photo at the Museum of Modern Art. PM Modi was seen clasping former US President Joe Biden's hand. While, Trudeau was standing next to Biden. Also read: WATCH: PM Modi congratulates JD Vance on US election win. 'Great, great victory' The tensions between the two countries have simmered since Canada alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot outside a Sikh temple in Canada. India, however, dismissed the accusation as "absurd". (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Did Canada's Trudeau smirk at PM Modi during his speech at AI Summit in Paris?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the polity, economy, security and society, further stressing that there are "biases we need to think about."
AI is writing the code of humanity in the 22nd century, but there are "biases we need to think about", PM Modi said while speaking at the Action AI Summit in Paris.&nbsp;
PM Modi added there is a deep interdependence across borders "therefore, there is a need for collective global efforts to establish governance and standards that upload our shared values, address risks, and build trust."
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-jd-vance-warns-against-ai-deals-with-authoritarian-regimes-in-a-jab-at-china-at-paris-summit-8710681" rel="dofollow"> 'Cheap tech': JD Vance warns against AI deals with 'authoritarian regimes' in a jab at China at Paris Summit</a>
He added that the governance is not just about managing rifts and rivalries "it is also about promoting innovation and deploying it for the global good. So we must think deeply and discuss openly about innovation and governance."
PM Modi said he was grateful to his "friend" and French President Emmanuel Macron for hosting the Paris AI Action Summit and for inviting him to co-chair it.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pm-modi-congratulates-jd-vance-for-us-election-win-great-great-victory-8710012" rel="dofollow">WATCH: PM Modi congratulates JD Vance on US election win. 'Great, great victory'</a>
<h2>'India leads in AI adoption'</h2>
Emphasising that India has one of the world's largest AI talent pools, PM Modi said that the country is leading in AI adoption and techno-legal solutions for data privacy.&nbsp;
"India has successfully built a digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people at a very low cost. It is built around an open and accessible network," he said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-meets-friend-emmanuel-macron-ahead-of-ai-summit-8709419" rel="dofollow">Indian PM Narendra Modi meets 'friend' Emmanuel Macron ahead of AI Summit</a>
<h2>'Global South must have unrestricted access to AI'</h2>
The Indian PM highlighted the need for an open-source AI for transparency and said that countries in the Global South must have unrestricted access to the technology.
It can help create a world in which the journey to sustainable development goals becomes easier and faster, he stressed.
"To do this, we must pull together resources and talent. We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data sets free from biases," PM Modi said at the Action AI Summit.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-pm-modis-us-visit-trumps-top-economic-adviser-calls-indias-tariffs-enormously-high-8708633" rel="dofollow">Ahead of PM Modi&rsquo;s US visit, Trump&rsquo;s top economic adviser calls India&rsquo;s tariffs &lsquo;enormously high&rsquo;</a>
Moreover, PM Modi is likely to discuss key deals with French President Emmanuel Macron, including the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three Scorpene-class submarines.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: AI is writing the code of humanity in the 22nd century, but there are "biases we need to think about", PM Modi said while speaking at the Action AI Summit in Paris. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the polity, economy, security and society, further stressing that there are "biases we need to think about." AI is writing the code of humanity in the 22nd century, but there are "biases we need to think about", PM Modi said while speaking at the Action AI Summit in Paris. PM Modi added there is a deep interdependence across borders "therefore, there is a need for collective global efforts to establish governance and standards that upload our shared values, address risks, and build trust." Also read: 'Cheap tech': JD Vance warns against AI deals with 'authoritarian regimes' in a jab at China at Paris Summit He added that the governance is not just about managing rifts and rivalries "it is also about promoting innovation and deploying it for the global good. So we must think deeply and discuss openly about innovation and governance." PM Modi said he was grateful to his "friend" and French President Emmanuel Macron for hosting the Paris AI Action Summit and for inviting him to co-chair it. Also read: WATCH: PM Modi congratulates JD Vance on US election win. 'Great, great victory' 'India leads in AI adoption' Emphasising that India has one of the world's largest AI talent pools, PM Modi said that the country is leading in AI adoption and techno-legal solutions for data privacy. "India has successfully built a digital public infrastructure for over 1.4 billion people at a very low cost. It is built around an open and accessible network," he said. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi meets 'friend' Emmanuel Macron ahead of AI Summit 'Global South must have unrestricted access to AI' The Indian PM highlighted the need for an open-source AI for transparency and said that countries in the Global South must have unrestricted access to the technology. It can help create a world in which the journey to sustainable development goals becomes easier and faster, he stressed. "To do this, we must pull together resources and talent. We must develop open-source systems that enhance trust and transparency. We must build quality data sets free from biases," PM Modi said at the Action AI Summit. Also read: Ahead of PM Modi’s US visit, Trump’s top economic adviser calls India’s tariffs ‘enormously high’ Moreover, PM Modi is likely to discuss key deals with French President Emmanuel Macron, including the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets and three Scorpene-class submarines. (With inputs from agencies)

'Need to be careful about AI biases': PM Modi addresses AI Summit in Paris

France is hosting the third AI Action Summit in Paris on February 10-11, bringing together world leaders and tech experts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to co-chair discussions on AI governance and innovation.

Paris AI Summit: global AI action summit kicks off in Paris with world leaders

Next week, top tech CEOs and leaders from about a hundred countries will gather in Paris to focus on the safe development of artificial intelligence (AI). All eyes will be on the US and china to see if they can find some common path amid the trade war and AI supremacy race. Chinese AI startup, DeepSeek, will also be the centre of the discussions. Watch in for more details!

Paris AI summit to focus on open-source tech & clean energy

US Vice President JD Vance will join top tech players in Paris next week at an artificial intelligence summit billed by France as a "wake-up call" for Europe in the global race for AI.
Vance, whose attendance was confirmed Tuesday by a French diplomatic source, China's Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest-profile of representatives from 80 countries to mingle with players from across the sector on February 10 and 11.
The event will take place in the French capital's sumptuous Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition.
In the run-up, French President Emmanuel Macron will on February 4 visit research centres applying AI to science and health, before hosting scientists and Nobel Prize winners at his Elysee Palace residence on Wednesday.
A wider science conference will be held at the Polytechnique engineering school on Thursday and Friday.
"The summit comes at exactly the right time for this wake-up call for France and Europe, and to show we are in position" to take advantage of the technology, an official in Macron's office told reporters.
In recent weeks, Washington's announcement of $500 billion in investment to build up AI infrastructure and the release of a frugal but powerful generative AI model by Chinese firm DeepSeek have focussed minds in Europe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/introducing-chatgpt-gov-openai-launches-tailored-version-for-us-government-amid-rise-in-ai-competition-8662379">Introducing ChatGPT Gov: OpenAI launches tailored version for US government amid rise in AI competition</a>
The two superpowers are in the midst of a trade war.
France must "not let this revolution pass it by", Macron's office said.
Attendees at the summit will include Sam Altman, head of OpenAI &ndash; the firm that brought generative models to public consciousness in 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT.
Google boss Sundar Pichai and Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, who leads the company's DeepMind AI research unit, will also come, alongside Arthur Mensch, founder of French AI developer Mistral.
The Elysee has said there are "talks" on hosting DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, and has yet to clarify whether X owner Elon Musk &ndash; who has his own generative initiative, xAI &ndash; has accepted an invitation.
Confirmed guests from Europe include European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
<h2>'Stoke confidence'</h2>
The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP.
Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies.
Macron's office has said the summit would see the announcement of "massive" investments along the lines of his annual "Choose France" business conference, at which 15 billion euros ($15.4 billion) of inward investment were pledged in 2024.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-macron-tells-netanyahu-israeli-firms-allowed-at-paris-air-show-8656385">French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show</a>
Beyond the economic opportunities, AI's impact on culture including artistic creativity and news production will be discussed in a side-event over the weekend.
Debates open to the public, such as that one, are aimed at showing off "positive use cases for AI" to "stoke confidence and speed up adoption" of the technology, said France's digital minister Clara Chappaz.
For now the French public is sceptical of AI, with 79 percent of respondents telling pollsters Ifop they were "concerned" about the technology in a recent survey.
<h2>More 'inclusive' AI?</h2>
Paris says it also hopes the summit can help kick off its vision of a more ethical and accessible and less resource-intensive AI.
At present, "the AI under development is pushed by a few large players from a few countries", Bouverot said, whereas France wants "to promote more inclusive development".
Indian premier Modi has been invited to co-host the Paris summit, in a push to bring governments on board.
One of the summit's aims is the establishment of a public-interest foundation for which Paris aims to raise 2.5 billion euros over five years.
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The effort would be "a public-private partnership between various governments, businesses and philanthropic foundations from different countries", Macron's office said.
Paris hopes at the summit to chart different efforts at AI governance around the world and gather commitments for environmentally sustainable AI &ndash; although no binding mechanism is planned for now.
"There are lots of big principles emerging around responsible, trustworthy AI, but it's not clear or easy to implement for the engineers in technical terms," said Laure de Roucy-Rochegonde, director of the geopolitical technology centre at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI).
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

World | The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP. Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies.

US Vice President JD Vance will join top tech players in Paris next week at an artificial intelligence summit billed by France as a "wake-up call" for Europe in the global race for AI. Vance, whose attendance was confirmed Tuesday by a French diplomatic source, China's Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest-profile of representatives from 80 countries to mingle with players from across the sector on February 10 and 11. The event will take place in the French capital's sumptuous Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. In the run-up, French President Emmanuel Macron will on February 4 visit research centres applying AI to science and health, before hosting scientists and Nobel Prize winners at his Elysee Palace residence on Wednesday. A wider science conference will be held at the Polytechnique engineering school on Thursday and Friday. "The summit comes at exactly the right time for this wake-up call for France and Europe, and to show we are in position" to take advantage of the technology, an official in Macron's office told reporters. In recent weeks, Washington's announcement of $500 billion in investment to build up AI infrastructure and the release of a frugal but powerful generative AI model by Chinese firm DeepSeek have focussed minds in Europe. Also read | Introducing ChatGPT Gov: OpenAI launches tailored version for US government amid rise in AI competition The two superpowers are in the midst of a trade war. France must "not let this revolution pass it by", Macron's office said. Attendees at the summit will include Sam Altman, head of OpenAI – the firm that brought generative models to public consciousness in 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT. Google boss Sundar Pichai and Nobel Prize winner Demis Hassabis, who leads the company's DeepMind AI research unit, will also come, alongside Arthur Mensch, founder of French AI developer Mistral. The Elysee has said there are "talks" on hosting DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, and has yet to clarify whether X owner Elon Musk – who has his own generative initiative, xAI – has accepted an invitation. Confirmed guests from Europe include European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. 'Stoke confidence' The tone of the AI summit will be "neither catastrophising, nor naive," Macron's AI envoy Anne Bouverot told AFP. Hosting the conference is also an opportunity for Paris to show off its own AI ecosystem, which numbers around 750 companies. Macron's office has said the summit would see the announcement of "massive" investments along the lines of his annual "Choose France" business conference, at which 15 billion euros ($15.4 billion) of inward investment were pledged in 2024. Also read | French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show Beyond the economic opportunities, AI's impact on culture including artistic creativity and news production will be discussed in a side-event over the weekend. Debates open to the public, such as that one, are aimed at showing off "positive use cases for AI" to "stoke confidence and speed up adoption" of the technology, said France's digital minister Clara Chappaz. For now the French public is sceptical of AI, with 79 percent of respondents telling pollsters Ifop they were "concerned" about the technology in a recent survey. More 'inclusive' AI? Paris says it also hopes the summit can help kick off its vision of a more ethical and accessible and less resource-intensive AI. At present, "the AI under development is pushed by a few large players from a few countries", Bouverot said, whereas France wants "to promote more inclusive development". Indian premier Modi has been invited to co-host the Paris summit, in a push to bring governments on board. One of the summit's aims is the establishment of a public-interest foundation for which Paris aims to raise 2.5 billion euros over five years. Also read | Hundreds protest against Trump's trans policy in New York The effort would be "a public-private partnership between various governments, businesses and philanthropic foundations from different countries", Macron's office said. Paris hopes at the summit to chart different efforts at AI governance around the world and gather commitments for environmentally sustainable AI – although no binding mechanism is planned for now. "There are lots of big principles emerging around responsible, trustworthy AI, but it's not clear or easy to implement for the engineers in technical terms," said Laure de Roucy-Rochegonde, director of the geopolitical technology centre at the French Institute for International Relations (IFRI). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US Vice President JD Vance to attend AI summit in Paris

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KidSuper blows into Paris with a tornado for fall 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Sunday that French President Emmanuel Macron will allow Israeli companies to attend this year's Paris air show, after a call Sunday between the two leaders.
"The French president assured the prime minister that Israeli companies would be able to participate in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/paris-air-show" rel="dofollow">Paris Air Show</a>," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.
Macron's office said the French leader told Netanyahu that the presence of Israeli companies "could be examined favourably as a result of the ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon".
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The pair fell out last year after Macron restricted Israeli businesses at a French arms fair and called for a halt to weapons exports to the country over the Gaza war.
The Paris show, which takes place during odd-numbered years at the French capital's Le Bourget airport, is one of the world's most important aerospace events for both civil and military companies. This year's event is in mid-June.
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Last October, Macron's government prevented Israeli companies from exhibiting at the Euronaval arms show. That led the then-Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant to call his actions "a disgrace to the French nation and the values of the free world".
The week before, the French president had called for the stopping of weapons exports to Israel, saying it was the only way to end its wars in Gaza and Lebanon.
Netanyahu said at the time Israel was fighting "the forces of barbarism... all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel's side. Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-news-today-hamas-israeli-raid-on-jenin-netanyahu-eradicate-terrorism-iron-wall-8642002" rel="dofollow">Hamas calls for escalation of fighting after Israeli raid on Jenin; Netanyahu vows to 'eradicate terrorism'</a>
Macron's administration also tried to block Israeli companies from a land defence and security exhibition five months earlier, but the decision was overturned by the French courts.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Macron's office said the French leader told Netanyahu that the presence of Israeli companies "could be examined favourably as a result of the ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Sunday that French President Emmanuel Macron will allow Israeli companies to attend this year's Paris air show, after a call Sunday between the two leaders. "The French president assured the prime minister that Israeli companies would be able to participate in the Paris Air Show," Netanyahu's office said in a statement. Macron's office said the French leader told Netanyahu that the presence of Israeli companies "could be examined favourably as a result of the ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon". Also read: 'Thank you for keeping your promise': Netanyahu expresses gratitude to Trump for ending hold on arms shipment The pair fell out last year after Macron restricted Israeli businesses at a French arms fair and called for a halt to weapons exports to the country over the Gaza war. The Paris show, which takes place during odd-numbered years at the French capital's Le Bourget airport, is one of the world's most important aerospace events for both civil and military companies. This year's event is in mid-June. Also read: 'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute Last October, Macron's government prevented Israeli companies from exhibiting at the Euronaval arms show. That led the then-Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant to call his actions "a disgrace to the French nation and the values of the free world". The week before, the French president had called for the stopping of weapons exports to Israel, saying it was the only way to end its wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Netanyahu said at the time Israel was fighting "the forces of barbarism... all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel's side. Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them". Also read: Hamas calls for escalation of fighting after Israeli raid on Jenin; Netanyahu vows to 'eradicate terrorism' Macron's administration also tried to block Israeli companies from a land defence and security exhibition five months earlier, but the decision was overturned by the French courts. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French President Macron tells Netanyahu Israeli firms allowed at Paris Air Show

Donald Trump has signed an order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement. The decision reflects his administration's stance on prioritizing economic growth over environmental regulations.

Trump 2.0: President Pulls US Out Of Paris Climate Pact To 'Drill, Baby, Drill' |

The west coast of Hollywood has gone up in flames. Many celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Mel Gibson, Anna Faris, Mandy Moore have lost their homes in the wildfire that has caused havoc in Hollywood. Find out more about the latest events affecting the world of showbiz in the latest episode of E-Club.

Artists lose homes and livelihoods in LA wildfires &more | E-Club

Vintage vehicles roll on the streets of Paris.

Car enthusiasts unite for 25th Traverse De Paris

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris hosted its first Christmas mass since it was reopened. 



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Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris hosted its first Christmas mass since it was reopened.

Paris, France 
Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported. 
Emergency services were reported on the scene, and the evacuated people were taken away from the tower. It is currently closed, and maintenance is underway with an investigation being carried out. 
Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran 
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/2412_WION_ORG_ISMAIL_HANIYEH_WEB-1735042213-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2412_WION_ORG_ISMAIL_HANIYEH_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=116&tags=israel,Hezbollah,Lebanon,war,Gaza" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
A spokesperson of the tower's management company SETE told the Mirror that the fire turned out to be "a short circuit in an elevator power rail". 
"The technical problem occurred between the second floor and the top of the monument, causing the fire alarm to be triggered at 10.50 am. By current safety procedures, we evacuated the monument," the spokesperson further added in their statement. 
He further said that no visitors were put in danger. 
Just after the news came out, wild speculations flooded social media, with one X user writing, "A fire is currently raging at the Eiffel Tower. The monument has just been evacuated. An emergency response company has established a perimeter, but firefighters are unable to access the flames."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trying-civilians-lacks-transparency-us-uk-slams-pakistan-for-sentencing-civilians-786502">'Trying civilians lacks transparency': US, UK slams Pakistan for sentencing civilians</a>
Another social media user wrote, "A fire is in progress at the Eiffel Tower. Flames were observed in the elevator shaft between the 1st and 2nd floors. All people in the vicinity have been evacuated. The firefighters are still working." While another person said: "After Notre Dame, we now have the Eiffel Tower on fire!" Mirror reported. 
(With inputs from agencies)

A fire broke out in Paris's most famous tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). Emergency services were reported on the scene, with thousands of visitors being evacuated. According to French media, a fire broke out in the elevator shaft between the first and second floors. 

 



Paris, France Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported. Emergency services were reported on the scene, and the evacuated people were taken away from the tower. It is currently closed, and maintenance is underway with an investigation being carried out. Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran A spokesperson of the tower's management company SETE told the Mirror that the fire turned out to be "a short circuit in an elevator power rail". "The technical problem occurred between the second floor and the top of the monument, causing the fire alarm to be triggered at 10.50 am. By current safety procedures, we evacuated the monument," the spokesperson further added in their statement. He further said that no visitors were put in danger. Just after the news came out, wild speculations flooded social media, with one X user writing, "A fire is currently raging at the Eiffel Tower. The monument has just been evacuated. An emergency response company has established a perimeter, but firefighters are unable to access the flames." Also read | 'Trying civilians lacks transparency': US, UK slams Pakistan for sentencing civilians Another social media user wrote, "A fire is in progress at the Eiffel Tower. Flames were observed in the elevator shaft between the 1st and 2nd floors. All people in the vicinity have been evacuated. The firefighters are still working." While another person said: "After Notre Dame, we now have the Eiffel Tower on fire!" Mirror reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Fire breaks out in Eiffel Tower, thousands evacuated: Report

Paris, France 
Following the sentencing of 25 people by a military court in Pakistan's Islamabad, the UK expressed concerns and emphasised the lack of "independent scrutiny and transparency" in such proceedings.
A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson in a statement on Monday said, "While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty over its legal proceedings, trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial."
The spokesperson also urged Pakistan to uphold its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/24/2412_WION_ORG_ISMAIL_HANIYEH_WEB-1735042213-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2412_WION_ORG_ISMAIL_HANIYEH_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=116&tags=israel,Hezbollah,Lebanon,war,Gaza" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
"We call on the Government of Pakistan to uphold its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights," the spokesperson added.
The United States also expressed concern over the sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court.
US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller in a post on X on Monday wrote, "The United States is concerned by the sentencing of Pakistani civilians in a military tribunal and calls upon Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process."
The military court sentenced 25 people to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for targeting military installations during protests which erupted after former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested in May last year.
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In a statement, the Pakistan military stated that the country on May 9 saw tragic incidents of "politically provoked violence and arson at multiple places, marking a dark chapter in the history of Pakistan" when, building on a sustained narrative of hate and lies, politically orchestrated attacks were conducted at the army installations, The Express Tribune reported.
Terming the action of protesters as "blatant acts of violence," the Pakistan military said, "These blatant acts of violence not only shocked the nation but also underscored the necessity of checking this unacceptable attempt of political terrorism to impose own perverted will through violence and coercion." 
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson in a statement on Monday said, "While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty over its legal proceedings, trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial."



Paris, France Following the sentencing of 25 people by a military court in Pakistan's Islamabad, the UK expressed concerns and emphasised the lack of "independent scrutiny and transparency" in such proceedings. A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson in a statement on Monday said, "While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty over its legal proceedings, trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial." The spokesperson also urged Pakistan to uphold its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran "We call on the Government of Pakistan to uphold its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights," the spokesperson added. The United States also expressed concern over the sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court. US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller in a post on X on Monday wrote, "The United States is concerned by the sentencing of Pakistani civilians in a military tribunal and calls upon Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process." The military court sentenced 25 people to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for targeting military installations during protests which erupted after former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested in May last year. Also read | Russia ship Ursa Major sinks after engine explosion, 14 crew members rescued, others missing In a statement, the Pakistan military stated that the country on May 9 saw tragic incidents of "politically provoked violence and arson at multiple places, marking a dark chapter in the history of Pakistan" when, building on a sustained narrative of hate and lies, politically orchestrated attacks were conducted at the army installations, The Express Tribune reported. Terming the action of protesters as "blatant acts of violence," the Pakistan military said, "These blatant acts of violence not only shocked the nation but also underscored the necessity of checking this unacceptable attempt of political terrorism to impose own perverted will through violence and coercion." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Trying civilians lacks transparency': US, UK slam Pakistan for sentencing civilians

Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported.&nbsp;

Emergency services were reported on the scene, and the evacuated people were taken away from the tower. It is currently closed, and maintenance is underway with an investigation being carried out.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-confirms-assassination-of-hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-in-iran-wion-originals-786493/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A spokesperson of the tower's management company SETE told the Mirror that the fire turned out to be "a short circuit in an elevator power rail".&nbsp;

"The technical problem occurred between the second floor and the top of the monument, causing the fire alarm to be triggered at 10.50 am. By current safety procedures, we evacuated the monument," the spokesperson further added in their statement.&nbsp;

He further said that no visitors were put in danger.&nbsp;

Just after the news came out, wild speculations flooded social media, with one X user writing, "A fire is currently raging at the Eiffel Tower. The monument has just been evacuated. An emergency response company has established a perimeter, but firefighters are unable to access the flames."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trying-civilians-lacks-transparency-us-uk-slams-pakistan-for-sentencing-civilians-786502">'Trying civilians lacks transparency': US, UK slams Pakistan for sentencing civilians</a>

Another social media user wrote, "A fire is in progress at the Eiffel Tower. Flames were observed in the elevator shaft between the 1st and 2nd floors. All people in the vicinity have been evacuated. The firefighters are still working." While another person said: "After Notre Dame, we now have the Eiffel Tower on fire!" Mirror reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24).

Around 1,200 people were evacuated after a fire alarm buzzed due to a short circuit in France's most attractive tourist place, the Eiffel Tower, on Tuesday (Dec 24). After the chaos, the tower's management company said it was not a fire but a short circuit, the British news agency Mirror reported. Emergency services were reported on the scene, and the evacuated people were taken away from the tower. It is currently closed, and maintenance is underway with an investigation being carried out. Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran A spokesperson of the tower's management company SETE told the Mirror that the fire turned out to be "a short circuit in an elevator power rail". "The technical problem occurred between the second floor and the top of the monument, causing the fire alarm to be triggered at 10.50 am. By current safety procedures, we evacuated the monument," the spokesperson further added in their statement. He further said that no visitors were put in danger. Just after the news came out, wild speculations flooded social media, with one X user writing, "A fire is currently raging at the Eiffel Tower. The monument has just been evacuated. An emergency response company has established a perimeter, but firefighters are unable to access the flames." Also read | 'Trying civilians lacks transparency': US, UK slams Pakistan for sentencing civilians Another social media user wrote, "A fire is in progress at the Eiffel Tower. Flames were observed in the elevator shaft between the 1st and 2nd floors. All people in the vicinity have been evacuated. The firefighters are still working." While another person said: "After Notre Dame, we now have the Eiffel Tower on fire!" Mirror reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Following the sentencing of 25 people by a military court in Pakistan's Islamabad, the UK expressed concerns and emphasised the lack of "independent scrutiny and transparency" in such proceedings.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson in a statement on Monday said, "While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty over its legal proceedings, trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial."

The spokesperson also urged Pakistan to uphold its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran

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"We call on the Government of Pakistan to uphold its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights," the spokesperson added.

The United States also expressed concern over the sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court.

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller in a post on X on Monday wrote, "The United States is concerned by the sentencing of Pakistani civilians in a military tribunal and calls upon Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process."

The military court sentenced 25 people to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for targeting military installations during protests which erupted after former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested in May last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ship-ursa-major-sinks-after-engine-explosion-14-crew-members-rescued-others-missing-786489">Russia ship Ursa Major sinks after engine explosion, 14 crew members rescued, others missing</a>

In a statement, the Pakistan military stated that the country on May 9 saw tragic incidents of "politically provoked violence and arson at multiple places, marking a dark chapter in the history of Pakistan" when, building on a sustained narrative of hate and lies, politically orchestrated attacks were conducted at the army installations, The Express Tribune reported.

Terming the action of protesters as "blatant acts of violence," the Pakistan military said, "These blatant acts of violence not only shocked the nation but also underscored the necessity of checking this unacceptable attempt of political terrorism to impose own perverted will through violence and coercion."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

&nbsp;

Following the sentencing of 25 people by a military court in Pakistan's Islamabad, the UK expressed concerns and emphasised the lack of "independent scrutiny and transparency" in such proceedings.

Following the sentencing of 25 people by a military court in Pakistan's Islamabad, the UK expressed concerns and emphasised the lack of "independent scrutiny and transparency" in such proceedings. A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson in a statement on Monday said, "While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty over its legal proceedings, trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial." The spokesperson also urged Pakistan to uphold its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Watch | Israel Confirms Assassination Of Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh In Iran "We call on the Government of Pakistan to uphold its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights," the spokesperson added. The United States also expressed concern over the sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court. US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller in a post on X on Monday wrote, "The United States is concerned by the sentencing of Pakistani civilians in a military tribunal and calls upon Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process." The military court sentenced 25 people to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for targeting military installations during protests which erupted after former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested in May last year. Also read | Russia ship Ursa Major sinks after engine explosion, 14 crew members rescued, others missing In a statement, the Pakistan military stated that the country on May 9 saw tragic incidents of "politically provoked violence and arson at multiple places, marking a dark chapter in the history of Pakistan" when, building on a sustained narrative of hate and lies, politically orchestrated attacks were conducted at the army installations, The Express Tribune reported. Terming the action of protesters as "blatant acts of violence," the Pakistan military said, "These blatant acts of violence not only shocked the nation but also underscored the necessity of checking this unacceptable attempt of political terrorism to impose own perverted will through violence and coercion." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors.&nbsp;

Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.

In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in.

“There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels.

Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-106000-amid-trumps-pro-crypto-push-784305">Also read:&nbsp;Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push</a>

In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.

Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment.

But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&amp;P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies.

<h2>Seeking innovative branding</h2>

Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece.&nbsp;

Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth.

Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&amp;P Global Ratings.

The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans

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But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say.

In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79.&nbsp;

Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele.

Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States.&nbsp;

Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.

Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States.&nbsp;

One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.”

Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.”

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors.

Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers. In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in. “There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels. Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships. Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment. But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies. Seeking innovative branding Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth. Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&P Global Ratings. The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans × But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say. In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele. Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March. Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.” Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars

Paris, France
Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. 
Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.
In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in.
“There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels.
Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-106000-amid-trumps-pro-crypto-push-784305">Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push</a>
In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.
Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment.
But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&amp;P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies.
<h2>Seeking innovative branding</h2>
Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. 
Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth.
Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&amp;P Global Ratings.
The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. 
Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans
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But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say.
In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. 
Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele.
Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. 
Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.
Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. 
One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.”
Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.”
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands like LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.



Paris, France Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers. In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in. “There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels. Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships. Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment. But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies. Seeking innovative branding Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth. Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&P Global Ratings. The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans × But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say. In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele. Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March. Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.” Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada.

The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).

Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew."

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ">US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant</a>

According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”.

As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody.

Watch:&nbsp;USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones

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She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission.

According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16).

A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada. The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17). Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process." Also read: US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”. As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody. Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones × She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission. According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian woman earlier held for stowing away to Paris now detained sneaking into Canada

Buffalo, US
A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada.
The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).
Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew."
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process."
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-space-force-to-help-india-build-semiconductor-plant-761033&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimlNPNgK6KAxULbPUHHdHDIvk4FBDF9AEoAHoECAcQAQ">US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant</a>
According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”.
As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody.
Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones
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She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission.
According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card.
(With inputs from agencies)

There were reports that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17).



Buffalo, US A Russian woman earlier accused of stowing away on a flight from New York to Paris was arrested again while on her way to Canada, authorities confirmed on Monday (Dec 16). Following her Paris flight fiasco, she was held in Philadelphia and was ordered not to leave the area except for court proceedings or meetings with her lawyers. However, she allegedly cut off her GPS-monitoring ankle device and boarded a bus to Canada. The New York Times reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Buffalo had arrested her again. The woman, named Svetlana Dali, is now scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday (Dec 17). Last month, Dali grabbed global headlines after managing to enter a Delta fight without a boarding pass. She was spotted at John F Kennedy International Airport on November 26. Later, it was revealed that she entered the aircraft “through a special lane for airline employees masked by a large Air Europa flight crew." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said in a statement, “This is the only reported case of unauthorized access when over 18 million passengers were screened at TSA security checkpoints during the busiest Thanksgiving travel season ever. No one has ever fully breached the TSA security screening process." Also read: US Space Force to help India build semiconductor plant According to a criminal complaint filed in that case, Delta employees failed to stop the woman as they were busy “helping ticketed passengers board”. As the plane took off, Delta employees quickly realised Dali was on the plane. The plane crew notified French law enforcement and the woman was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport on November 27. She was flown back to New York on December 4 and was taken into custody. Watch: USA News: Trump Team Wants Iron Dome Against Drones × She has been charged with obtaining transportation on an aircraft without consent or permission. According to French authorities, Dali is a Russian national and has been living in the US on a green card. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Paris, opposing cuts in the civil service and demanding more public sector investment. Watch for more details!

Thousands March Against Job Cuts and Outsourcing in Paris

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed US President-elect Donald Trump to the Elysee Palace in Paris for talks on Saturday, ahead of a ceremony to mark the reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral five years after it was ravaged by fire.

Trump Welcomed By World Leaders At Notre Dame Reopening Ceremony | WION | World News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Zelensky said that his meeting with the US president-elect as well as the French leader on Saturday (Dec 7) was "good and productive" and that the three agreed to work together.

Macron hosted the significant meeting at the Elysee Palace, bringing together Zelensky and Trump for three-way talks. The discussion centred around the complexities of the current global landscape, which the US-president elect poignantly described as a world that's "a little crazy".

This was Zelensky's first face-to-face meeting with Trump and also the incoming US president's first-ever international visit since winning the November 5 elections.

"We all want peace. But it is very important for us... that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, [Russian President Vladimir] Putin or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning," Zelensky said according to the presidential website.

"And this is the most important thing -- a just peace and security guarantees, strong security guarantees for Ukraine," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-in-paris-us-president-elect-says-world-little-crazy-as-he-meets-macron-ahead-of-notre-dame-reopening-782332">Trump in Paris: US President-elect says world 'little crazy' as he meets Macron ahead of Notre Dame reopening</a>

<h2>US announces $988 million security assistance package for Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Soon after Trump, Zelensky, and Macron met, the administration of outgoing US President Joe Biden announced a new $988 million assistance package for Ukraine.

The military aid package includes a range of critical equipment such as drones, precision-guided Himars rocket launcher ammunition, and essential supplies for artillery systems, tanks and armoured vehicles.

"Our job has been to try and put Ukraine in the strongest possible position on the battlefield so that it is in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Saturday.

In the closing weeks of Biden's term, the goal is "a massive surge of assistance and to up the economic pressure on Russia," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Zelensky said that his meeting with the US president-elect as well as the French leader on Saturday (Dec 7) was "good and productive" and that the three agreed to work together. Macron hosted the significant meeting at the Elysee Palace, bringing together Zelensky and Trump for three-way talks. The discussion centred around the complexities of the current global landscape, which the US-president elect poignantly described as a world that's "a little crazy". This was Zelensky's first face-to-face meeting with Trump and also the incoming US president's first-ever international visit since winning the November 5 elections. "We all want peace. But it is very important for us... that the peace is just for all of us and that Russia, [Russian President Vladimir] Putin or any other aggressor has no possibility of ever returning," Zelensky said according to the presidential website. "And this is the most important thing -- a just peace and security guarantees, strong security guarantees for Ukraine," he added. Also read: Trump in Paris: US President-elect says world 'little crazy' as he meets Macron ahead of Notre Dame reopening US announces $988 million security assistance package for Ukraine Soon after Trump, Zelensky, and Macron met, the administration of outgoing US President Joe Biden announced a new $988 million assistance package for Ukraine. The military aid package includes a range of critical equipment such as drones, precision-guided Himars rocket launcher ammunition, and essential supplies for artillery systems, tanks and armoured vehicles. "Our job has been to try and put Ukraine in the strongest possible position on the battlefield so that it is in the strongest possible position at the negotiating table," National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Saturday. In the closing weeks of Biden's term, the goal is "a massive surge of assistance and to up the economic pressure on Russia," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky says talks with Trump were 'good and productive', insists on ‘just’ settlement with Russia

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