Visitors to Paris make a beeline to the Louvre to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa and countless other Treasures but now the world's largest museum is also attempting to join the Olympic fever. You can now work out inside the Louvre as Olympic organisers attempt to combine Sports and culture.

Louvre offers sport sessions ahead of games

<p>French police on Friday (Apr 19) arrested a man in Paris who had threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>The man was seen entering the consulate at 11 am local time, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest, a police source was quoted by Reuters as saying.</p>

<p>The man later exited the consulate and was being searched by special police forces and was not actually carrying explosives, the&nbsp;police source added.</p>

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<p>Police earlier cordoned off the Iranian consulate and said they were preparing to enter&nbsp;at "the consulate's request."</p>

<p>"A witness saw a man enter carrying a grenade or an explosive belt," a source was quoted as saying by news agencies, adding that an elite police unit had been mobilised after the consulate requested an intervention.</p>

<p>It was reported that it was the same man who had been suspected of attempted arson near the Iranian consulate in an incident last September.</p>

<p>Le Parisien newspaper reported that&nbsp;the man had dragged flags on the floor of the consulate and said he wanted to avenge the death of his brother.</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear whether the incident was linked to the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions.</p>


French police on Friday (Apr 19) arrested a man in Paris who had threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate, reported Reuters. The man was seen entering the consulate at 11 am local time, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest, a police source was quoted by Reuters as saying.

French police on Friday (Apr 19) arrested a man in Paris who had threatened to blow himself up at the Iranian consulate, reported Reuters. The man was seen entering the consulate at 11 am local time, carrying what appeared to be a grenade and explosive vest, a police source was quoted by Reuters as saying. The man later exited the consulate and was being searched by special police forces and was not actually carrying explosives, the police source added. Also read: Paris Olympics opening ceremony could be moved in case of terror threat, hints Emmanuel Macron Police earlier cordoned off the Iranian consulate and said they were preparing to enter at "the consulate's request." "A witness saw a man enter carrying a grenade or an explosive belt," a source was quoted as saying by news agencies, adding that an elite police unit had been mobilised after the consulate requested an intervention. It was reported that it was the same man who had been suspected of attempted arson near the Iranian consulate in an incident last September. Le Parisien newspaper reported that the man had dragged flags on the floor of the consulate and said he wanted to avenge the death of his brother. It was not immediately clear whether the incident was linked to the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions.

French police arrest man who threatened to blow himself up at Iranian consulate in Paris

French authorities arrested a man who threatened to blow himself up at Iran's consulate in Paris, a police source said Friday after officers cordoned off the building in the French capital. Watch in for more details!

BREAKING: French police arrest man after surrounding Iranian consulate in Paris

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - US economic growth vs Inflation - Iran: Willing to exercise restraint - Olympic flame lit for Paris 2024 - Israel demands sanctions on Iran's missile project - Israel weighs response to Iran attack - UN Watchdog: Iran closed nuclear facilities - Sunak faces rebellion over smoking ban

Olympic flame lit for Paris 2024 | US economic growth vs Inflation

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Islamabad: PM Sharif meets Saudi FM - Iran: Willing to exercise restraint - Olympic flame lit for Paris 2024 - Israel weighs response to Iran attack - UN Watchdog: Iran closed nuclear facilities - Sunak faces rebellion over smoking ban

Islamabad: PM Sharif meets Saudi FM | Olympic flame lit for Paris 2024

<p>Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit organization (NGO) based out of France, has warned the Paris Olympic 2024 organisers of poor water quality in the iconic Seine river. Notably, athletes will be required to swim in the river during Olympic and Paralympic triathlon and marathon swimming events. In less than four months, Paris will be hosting sports' biggest carnival but the report by NGO has raised a few concerns.</p>

<p>Surfrider shared a post on its official Facebook page which mentioned that bacteriological pollution at Alexandre III Bridge, starting point of several water events, is above the permissible limit. The NGO also warned of various health risks posed by the pollution which includes 'common infections such as otitis and conjunctivitis to more severe infections such as staphylococcus.'</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-athletics-and-swimming-transgender-women-banned-by-world-netball-from-competing-709419">After athletics and swimming, transgender women banned by World Netball from competing</a></p>

<p>The NGO says to have conducted testing on 14 water samples since November 2023 and claims that all the results showed non-satisfactory quality according to European Bathing Water Directive standards .</p>

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<p>The organisation&nbsp;says that the causes of pollution range from 'rainfall to malfunctions in the sewage system, including poorly connected barges and animal waste.'</p>

<p>The French government, however, has taken several steps to address these issues and the post by the NGO also acknowledged that and wrote: "Faced with these challenges, the City of Paris, the French State and Paris regional authorities have committed to take concrete measures, such as setting up a storm water basin at Austerlitz, connecting barges and limit impermeable surfaces."</p>

<p>Apart from this, rising temperatures are also raising a lot of questions over the games. The organisers are leaving no stone unturned to make sure the athletes have a fruitful time in the village. Despite no air conditioning at the athletes' village, organisers say that they have ensured that the comfort of the athletes is met in the forthcoming mega event.</p>

<p>Following the Games, around 6,000 people will reside in the neighbourhood, which comprises the suburban areas of Saint Ouen, Saint Denis and L'Ile Saint Denis.</p>


Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit organization (NGO) based out of France, has warned the Paris Olympic 2024 organisers of poor water quality in the iconic Seine river.

Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit organization (NGO) based out of France, has warned the Paris Olympic 2024 organisers of poor water quality in the iconic Seine river. Notably, athletes will be required to swim in the river during Olympic and Paralympic triathlon and marathon swimming events. In less than four months, Paris will be hosting sports' biggest carnival but the report by NGO has raised a few concerns. Surfrider shared a post on its official Facebook page which mentioned that bacteriological pollution at Alexandre III Bridge, starting point of several water events, is above the permissible limit. The NGO also warned of various health risks posed by the pollution which includes 'common infections such as otitis and conjunctivitis to more severe infections such as staphylococcus.' Also Read: After athletics and swimming, transgender women banned by World Netball from competing The NGO says to have conducted testing on 14 water samples since November 2023 and claims that all the results showed non-satisfactory quality according to European Bathing Water Directive standards . × The organisation says that the causes of pollution range from 'rainfall to malfunctions in the sewage system, including poorly connected barges and animal waste.' The French government, however, has taken several steps to address these issues and the post by the NGO also acknowledged that and wrote: "Faced with these challenges, the City of Paris, the French State and Paris regional authorities have committed to take concrete measures, such as setting up a storm water basin at Austerlitz, connecting barges and limit impermeable surfaces." Apart from this, rising temperatures are also raising a lot of questions over the games. The organisers are leaving no stone unturned to make sure the athletes have a fruitful time in the village. Despite no air conditioning at the athletes' village, organisers say that they have ensured that the comfort of the athletes is met in the forthcoming mega event. Following the Games, around 6,000 people will reside in the neighbourhood, which comprises the suburban areas of Saint Ouen, Saint Denis and L'Ile Saint Denis.

Paris Olympic 2024: France-based NGO warns of high bacterial pollution level in Seine river ahead of games

<p>Bilquis Mir, known as the aqua woman of Kashmir Valley, has added one more feather in her cap. Bilquis, a&nbsp;water sports champion of Kayaking &amp; Canoeing from the Kashmir Valley has become the first woman from India to be a jury member at the forthcoming Summer Olympics in Paris.</p>

<p>Bilquis Mir is a former water sports champion and trainer from Srinagar who has represented the country at dozens of National and International water sports championships. Bilquis started her journey on the world-famous Srinagar's Dal Lake at the age of six. &nbsp;</p>

<p>'It's a proud moment not only for me but the whole country that India will be a part of the upcoming jury at the Olympics in 2024. It's a dream come true, I started my sports career at the age of six and&nbsp;finally, we are there, India is there. Everyone has a dream of reaching there and I will be the first woman to be there from my country,'' said Bilquis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stage-set-for-indias-first-election-open-debate-shashi-tharoor-accepts-rajeev-chandrasekhars-challenge-708857">Stage set for India's first election 'Open Debate'? Shashi Tharoor accepts Rajeev Chandrasekhar's challenge</a></p>

<p>The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has confirmed the appointment of Bilquis Mir in a letter sent to the Jammu and Kashmir government. Bilquis has represented the country multiple times, including as the coach for the women's canoeing team. She was also the only Indian woman and the first from Jammu and Kashmir to be appointed as a jury member at the 19th Asian Games held at Hangzhou in China.</p>

<p>''It was not easy to excel at the International level, being a Kashmiri girl and starting from Dal Lake when there is no awareness about water sports, especially for girls. But I believe never give up on your dreams and keep going and trust yourself. Nobody can stop you from achieving your goal. I want to see my UT and country on the world map, and I want to see more girls like Bilquis represent the country. '' said Bilquis Mir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bilquis was bestowed with an award by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. She has also been the recipient of the Devi Award.</p>


Bilquis Mir, known as the aqua woman of Kashmir Valley, has added one more feather in her cap. Bilquis, a water sports champion of Kayaking & Canoeing from the Kashmir Valley has become the first woman from India to be a jury member at the forthcoming Summer Olympics in Paris.

Bilquis Mir, known as the aqua woman of Kashmir Valley, has added one more feather in her cap. Bilquis, a water sports champion of Kayaking & Canoeing from the Kashmir Valley has become the first woman from India to be a jury member at the forthcoming Summer Olympics in Paris. Bilquis Mir is a former water sports champion and trainer from Srinagar who has represented the country at dozens of National and International water sports championships. Bilquis started her journey on the world-famous Srinagar's Dal Lake at the age of six. 'It's a proud moment not only for me but the whole country that India will be a part of the upcoming jury at the Olympics in 2024. It's a dream come true, I started my sports career at the age of six and finally, we are there, India is there. Everyone has a dream of reaching there and I will be the first woman to be there from my country,'' said Bilquis. Also read: Stage set for India's first election 'Open Debate'? Shashi Tharoor accepts Rajeev Chandrasekhar's challenge The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has confirmed the appointment of Bilquis Mir in a letter sent to the Jammu and Kashmir government. Bilquis has represented the country multiple times, including as the coach for the women's canoeing team. She was also the only Indian woman and the first from Jammu and Kashmir to be appointed as a jury member at the 19th Asian Games held at Hangzhou in China. ''It was not easy to excel at the International level, being a Kashmiri girl and starting from Dal Lake when there is no awareness about water sports, especially for girls. But I believe never give up on your dreams and keep going and trust yourself. Nobody can stop you from achieving your goal. I want to see my UT and country on the world map, and I want to see more girls like Bilquis represent the country. '' said Bilquis Mir. Bilquis was bestowed with an award by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. She has also been the recipient of the Devi Award.

Kashmir’s Bilquis Mir becomes first Indian woman to be jury at Paris Olympics

<p>The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s aircraft encountered a mechanical issue in Paris, on Wednesday (Apr 3) reported Reuters, forcing him and his delegation to drive to Brussels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to Blinken’s aircraft?</strong></h2>

<p>Washington’s top diplomat got stuck in another country yet again due to his aircraft, this time in the French capital. He was later forced to drive to Brussels, Belgium for a meeting of NATO alliance foreign ministers, a State Department spokesperson said.</p>

<p>According to the spokesperson, the US Air Force jet that had brought Blinken to France on Tuesday (Apr 2) experienced some mechanical issue.</p>

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<p>Blinken’s delegation was forced to drive from Paris to the NATO headquarters in Brussels after his aircraft, an older model of the Boeing 737, which had been modified to be used by the US government was grounded, reported Bloomberg.</p>

<p>The distance between the two capitals is more than 300 kilometres. The details about the mechanical issue that Blinken’s aircraft encountered this time were not immediately known.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Not the first time</strong></h2>

<p>In January, Blinken was briefly stuck in Davos, Switzerland and had to switch planes after his aircraft suffered a “critical failure” due to an oxygen leak. At the time, a separate plane was sent to bring Washington’s top diplomat and his aides back to the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The technical issues with Blinken’s aircraft also come at a time when Boeing is facing intense scrutiny, particularly since the near-catastrophic mid-air blowout involving its Boeing 737 Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken in Paris</strong></h2>

<p>Washington’s top diplomat is in the midst of a European tour and arrived in Paris on Tuesday. In the French capital, he held talks with senior officials of the country, including President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Blinken also arrived hours after members of the Washington-based NGO, World Central Kitchen (WCK) were struck by an Israeli airstrike in central Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-diplomat-antony-blinken-briefly-stuck-in-davos-after-plane-faces-critical-failure-681081">&nbsp;Top US diplomat Antony Blinken briefly stuck in Davos after plane faces ‘critical failure’</a></strong></p>

<p>“We’ve spoken directly to the Israeli government about this particular incident. We’ve urged a swift, a thorough and impartial investigation,” said Washington’s top diplomat during a press conference in Paris, adding that humanitarian workers have to be protected.</p>

<p>However, he stopped short of directly condemning the attack, unlike his French counterpart Stephane Sejourne who voiced France’s “firm condemnation” of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-netanyahu-speaks-on-aid-workers-death-in-gaza-after-getting-discharged-in-excellent-condition-706934"> Israeli airstrike</a>. He added, “Nothing can justify such a tragedy.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden and his administration is facing pressure from the international community, human rights groups and some of his fellow Democrats over their support for Israel amid the ongoing war and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s aircraft encountered a mechanical issue in Paris, on Wednesday (Apr 3) reported Reuters, forcing him and his delegation to drive to Brussels.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s aircraft encountered a mechanical issue in Paris, on Wednesday (Apr 3) reported Reuters, forcing him and his delegation to drive to Brussels. What happened to Blinken’s aircraft? Washington’s top diplomat got stuck in another country yet again due to his aircraft, this time in the French capital. He was later forced to drive to Brussels, Belgium for a meeting of NATO alliance foreign ministers, a State Department spokesperson said. According to the spokesperson, the US Air Force jet that had brought Blinken to France on Tuesday (Apr 2) experienced some mechanical issue. Also Read | NATO chief weighs in on 'multi-year' commitments to support Ukraine for 'long haul' Blinken’s delegation was forced to drive from Paris to the NATO headquarters in Brussels after his aircraft, an older model of the Boeing 737, which had been modified to be used by the US government was grounded, reported Bloomberg. The distance between the two capitals is more than 300 kilometres. The details about the mechanical issue that Blinken’s aircraft encountered this time were not immediately known. Not the first time In January, Blinken was briefly stuck in Davos, Switzerland and had to switch planes after his aircraft suffered a “critical failure” due to an oxygen leak. At the time, a separate plane was sent to bring Washington’s top diplomat and his aides back to the US. The technical issues with Blinken’s aircraft also come at a time when Boeing is facing intense scrutiny, particularly since the near-catastrophic mid-air blowout involving its Boeing 737 Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines. Blinken in Paris Washington’s top diplomat is in the midst of a European tour and arrived in Paris on Tuesday. In the French capital, he held talks with senior officials of the country, including President Emmanuel Macron. Blinken also arrived hours after members of the Washington-based NGO, World Central Kitchen (WCK) were struck by an Israeli airstrike in central Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Also Read | Top US diplomat Antony Blinken briefly stuck in Davos after plane faces ‘critical failure’ “We’ve spoken directly to the Israeli government about this particular incident. We’ve urged a swift, a thorough and impartial investigation,” said Washington’s top diplomat during a press conference in Paris, adding that humanitarian workers have to be protected. However, he stopped short of directly condemning the attack, unlike his French counterpart Stephane Sejourne who voiced France’s “firm condemnation” of the Israeli airstrike. He added, “Nothing can justify such a tragedy.” US President Joe Biden and his administration is facing pressure from the international community, human rights groups and some of his fellow Democrats over their support for Israel amid the ongoing war and deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken’s aircraft faces mechanical issue in Paris

The 2024 Olympics are just a few months away and an exhibition in Paris is paying tribute to the legacy of Paavo Nurmi- who was the standout star when the summer games were last held in the French capital in 1924.

Paavo Nurmi's five Olympic Golds return to Paris

French President Emmanuel said on Saturday (Mar 16) that Russia would be asked to observe a ceasefire in war-torn Ukraine during the Paris Olympics. In an interview with a Ukrainian journalist, French President Macron said, "The demand for a ceasefire during the Olympics. They (the Russians) must do this. That is what has always happened."

France to urge Russian ceasefire in Ukraine

French lawmakers have approved a bill aimed at reducing the sale of fast fashion products. The bill aims to impose a $5.5 penalty on each fast fashion clothing item. But is this even feasible in the era of #OOTD?

Gravitas | France fast fashion bill: Sustainability a far cry in #OOTD era?

The Lebanese fashion designer Elie Saab gives nod to the king of rock and roll in his latest fall winter reday to wear collection. Watch in.

Paris Fashion Week 2024: Elie Saab gives nod to Elvis Presley

<p>Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics.</p>

<p>Both radical left and right-wing parties in the country have vehemently opposed the proposal after a minister confirmed that Paris was looking favourably at Riyadh’s request to install a national pavilion, another push by the Arab nation to cement its position as the global sporting hub.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Les Invalides?</strong></h2>

<p>Olympic archery events are slated to be held in the long Esplanade Park of Les Invalides. Some events will be held by the iconic Eiffel Tower.</p>

<p>Macron's administration kept mum on the Saudi proposal until Nathalie Serre, a conservative MP, demanded information in a ­parliamentary question. Answering the question, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the government was giving it a “sympathetic view”.</p>

<p>“Saudi Arabia is committed to ­respecting the security and financial measures of Les Invalides” and that Riyadh was an “important defence partner”. Many countries were ­setting up national pavilions in Paris for the games, he was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the controversy?</strong></h2>

<p>The idea of the pavilion, which would be erected in May and last for four months, is being seen as an attempt to breach the country’s historic treasure by the opposition.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;France changes its abortion laws after US repeals Roe vs Wade; Catholic groups oppose</strong></p>

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<p>Nathalie Serre pointed out that a foreign state’s ‘pavilion’ in “an archi­tectural treasure, full of symbolism and our country’s history” would be out of place.</p>

<p>She said it would be egregious since Saudi Arabia is involved, “because of its human rights record.” “But even if it were a Danish or ­Canadian village, it would be the same,” she added.</p>

<p>Two biggest opposition parties — the right-wing populist National ­Rally led by Marine Le Pen and France Unbowed, the radical left party of Jean-Luc Mélenchon—also criticised the move.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjq8Ym_wdqEAxVwwjgGHUAZDZkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-french-army-chief-hails-india-as-a-key-partner-calling-for-increased-military-cooperation-695311" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-french-army-chief-hails-india-as-a-key-partner-calling-for-increased-military-cooperation-695311&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjq8Ym_wdqEAxVwwjgGHUAZDZkQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Exclusive: French army chief hails India as a key partner, calls for increased military cooperation</a></strong></p>

<p>“When you have a Chanel fashion show, it doesn’t last four months and we’re not appropriating anything other than the beauty of the place. There are some things that are not for sale and in my view Les Invalides is one of them.”</p>

<p>The defence ministry is now in damage control mode.</p>

<p>It said the deal was dependent “on strict conditions that the Saudis have not yet accepted, which must ensure the security and solemnity of the site and the peace of the resident pensioners”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics.

Saudi Arabia’s request to President Emmanuel Macron to erect an “Olympic village” by Napoleon’s tomb, Les Invalides, has set the cat among the pigeons in French politics. Both radical left and right-wing parties in the country have vehemently opposed the proposal after a minister confirmed that Paris was looking favourably at Riyadh’s request to install a national pavilion, another push by the Arab nation to cement its position as the global sporting hub. Why Les Invalides? Olympic archery events are slated to be held in the long Esplanade Park of Les Invalides. Some events will be held by the iconic Eiffel Tower. Macron's administration kept mum on the Saudi proposal until Nathalie Serre, a conservative MP, demanded information in a parliamentary question. Answering the question, French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that the government was giving it a “sympathetic view”. “Saudi Arabia is committed to respecting the security and financial measures of Les Invalides” and that Riyadh was an “important defence partner”. Many countries were setting up national pavilions in Paris for the games, he was quoted as saying. Why the controversy? The idea of the pavilion, which would be erected in May and last for four months, is being seen as an attempt to breach the country’s historic treasure by the opposition. Watch: France changes its abortion laws after US repeals Roe vs Wade; Catholic groups oppose × Nathalie Serre pointed out that a foreign state’s ‘pavilion’ in “an architectural treasure, full of symbolism and our country’s history” would be out of place. She said it would be egregious since Saudi Arabia is involved, “because of its human rights record.” “But even if it were a Danish or Canadian village, it would be the same,” she added. Two biggest opposition parties — the right-wing populist National Rally led by Marine Le Pen and France Unbowed, the radical left party of Jean-Luc Mélenchon—also criticised the move. Also read: Exclusive: French army chief hails India as a key partner, calls for increased military cooperation “When you have a Chanel fashion show, it doesn’t last four months and we’re not appropriating anything other than the beauty of the place. There are some things that are not for sale and in my view Les Invalides is one of them.” The defence ministry is now in damage control mode. It said the deal was dependent “on strict conditions that the Saudis have not yet accepted, which must ensure the security and solemnity of the site and the peace of the resident pensioners”. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Not for sale,’ Macron under fire over Saudi proposal to build Olympic pavilion by Napoleon’s tomb

<p>Liam Payne, the 30-year-old singer known for hits like "Strip That Down," and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy are proving that their love is still going strong. The couple, who have been together for over a year, were spotted walking hand-in-hand in Paris.</p>

<p>For their outing in the romantic city, Payne opted for a stylish look, wearing a cropped, double-breasted jacket and oversized green trousers, paired with matching platform dress shoes. Cassidy, on the other hand, looked stunning in a sheer, striped Alaïa dress, which she later gushed about on Instagram, writing, “Pardon my French but I f***ing love this dress.”</p>

<p>Cassidy shared more of their France trip on Instagram, including a sweet mirror selfie where Payne wrapped his arm around her waist. "I am happy to be in Paris,” she captioned the post.</p>

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<p>The couple was first linked in October 2022 when they attended a Halloween party in coordinated costumes.&nbsp;In May last year, breakup rumours swirled when the couple was not photographed together for several months. However, they quickly dispelled the rumours after being spotted holding hands on a London date night.</p>

<p>Payne was previously in relationships with Maya Henry and Cheryl Cole. He has&nbsp;a 6-year-old son Bear with Cheryl.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/singapore-says-taylor-swift-gig-grant-not-as-high-as-speculated-696366">Singapore says Taylor Swift gig grant not as high as speculated</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Who is Kate Cassidy?</strong></p>

<p>Cassidy is a social media influencer and has over 60,000 followers on Instagram. She graduated from Coastal Carolina University in the spring of 2021. She's based in London but spends much of her time travelling around the world.&nbsp;</p>


Liam Payne, the 30-year-old singer known for hits like "Strip That Down," and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy are proving that their love is still going strong. The couple, who have been together for over a year, were spotted walking hand-in-hand in Paris.

Liam Payne, the 30-year-old singer known for hits like "Strip That Down," and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy are proving that their love is still going strong. The couple, who have been together for over a year, were spotted walking hand-in-hand in Paris. For their outing in the romantic city, Payne opted for a stylish look, wearing a cropped, double-breasted jacket and oversized green trousers, paired with matching platform dress shoes. Cassidy, on the other hand, looked stunning in a sheer, striped Alaïa dress, which she later gushed about on Instagram, writing, “Pardon my French but I f***ing love this dress.” Cassidy shared more of their France trip on Instagram, including a sweet mirror selfie where Payne wrapped his arm around her waist. "I am happy to be in Paris,” she captioned the post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kate Cassidy (@kateecass) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kate Cassidy (@kateecass) The couple was first linked in October 2022 when they attended a Halloween party in coordinated costumes. In May last year, breakup rumours swirled when the couple was not photographed together for several months. However, they quickly dispelled the rumours after being spotted holding hands on a London date night. Payne was previously in relationships with Maya Henry and Cheryl Cole. He has a 6-year-old son Bear with Cheryl. Also read: Singapore says Taylor Swift gig grant not as high as speculated Who is Kate Cassidy? Cassidy is a social media influencer and has over 60,000 followers on Instagram. She graduated from Coastal Carolina University in the spring of 2021. She's based in London but spends much of her time travelling around the world.

Lovebirds alert! Liam Payne and Kate Cassidy's romance blooms in Paris

The Olympic village for Paris Summer Games 2024 is ready and will be inaugurated by French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday. The facility has been built in a village in the suburb of Saint-Denis, in a run-down area that has been transformed into a 40 low-rise tower blocks.

France: Macron inspects Paris' new Olympic village

Around 20 European leaders and representatives of other nations met in Paris to discuss the war in Ukraine. The host French president Emanuel Macron announced new steps to strengthen military aid to Ukraine. Macron said that the Russian defeat is extremely crucial to the security and stability in Europe while adding that the leaders gathered to send Putin a message of European determination on Ukraine he said that Moscow is showing more aggressive nature not just in Ukraine but in general as well. Watch to know more!

Western leaders meet in Paris to discuss new coalition to supply missiles to Ukraine

Leaders meet in Paris, Macron says 'will do everything so that Russia cannot win this war'

Russia-Ukraine war: EU to send troops to Ukraine?

Leaders meet in Paris to discuss Russia-Ukraine war

Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands to contribute $108 million to buy ammunition for Ukraine

Israel has sent negotiators to Qatar to continue talks aimed at a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of hostages held by Hamas. This comes after talks in Paris where Israel's Head of MOSSAD intelligence service met with mediators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar. The talks for a possible ceasefire in Gaza have picked up peace after International mediators including Israel's intelligence Chief met in Paris for hostage talks and Israel official has signaled that the meeting was productive and could amount to a ceasefire deal. Egypt has also said that the negotiations for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza have resumed in Doha. Now experts from Egypt Qatar the United States and Israel as well as Hamas representatives are holding a meeting which is in continuation of what was discussed in Paris. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Mediators from US, Qatar, Egypt & Israel in Doha for truce talks

According to officials and local media, Israel's war cabinet decided on Saturday to send negotiators to Qatar to carry on negotiations toward achieving a ceasefire in the conflict with Hamas and the release of hostages detained in Gaza.

Israel-hamas war: Israeli negotiators sent to Qatar for more Hamas hostage talks

Israeli leaders planned to convene on Saturday to hear of possible progress in mediated negotiations on a new Gaza truce to recover hostages held by Hamas, but Palestinians saw little change in polarised positions almost five months into the war.

Israel-hamas war: Israel signals progress in Gaza truce talks, Palestinians see little movement

<p>The iconic Parisian monument, the Eiffel Tower, on Sunday (Feb 25) is set to be reopened for visitors following a six-day closure due to strikes. The Eiffel Tower which witnesses thousands of visitors every day and is typically open 365 days a year has been closed for nearly a week, after workers went on a strike in a dispute over the way the tower was managed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The employees working at the Eiffel Tower walked out, on Monday (Feb 19) amid a dispute over the management of the monument and demanded a salary increase proportional to revenue from ticket sales.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | Building the Eiffel Tower, one match at a time</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-building-the-eiffel-tower-one-match-at-a-time-676330/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The workers have also demanded better maintenance of the 135-year-old tower which is reportedly starting to show traces of rust on some of its ironwork.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by the French newspaper Le Monde said that the iconic tower has not been repainted for 14 years, rather than the usual seven, while other repair work is also falling behind schedule.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deal struck between Eiffel Tower operator and staff</strong></h2>

<p>The Eiffel Tower’s operator, Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), said that a deal was struck between the workers’ union and the organisation, on Saturday (Feb 24), “under which the parties will regularly monitor the company’s business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>As both sides aim to balance their books by 2025 they have also agreed to invest around 380 million euros ($412 million) up to 2031 toward maintaining the tower, said the SETE in a statement.</p>

<p>The strike came after the Confédération Générale du Travail (CGT) union said that workers had decided to strike over the Eiffel Tower operator’s business model.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-topped-pre-covid-visitor-numbers-in-2023-681705">Eiffel Tower topped pre-Covid visitor numbers in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>The powerful French union claimed that SETE’s model was based on an inflated estimate of the number of future visitors and an underestimation of the cost of maintenance and renovation of the Eiffel Tower.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strike that began less than a week ago was the second walkout in two months ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games this summer which will be hosted in the French capital city of Paris.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Impact of strikes on visitors</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Eiffel Tower’s website, the Parisian monument hosts approximately seven million visitors per year and around 25,000 people every day. The strikes also led to thousands of cancellations of tickets which tourists book months in advance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-closed-as-staff-go-on-strike-674159">Eiffel Tower closed as staff go on strike</a></strong></p>

<p>SETE extended apologies to visitors, who booked their tickets months in advance, caught in the strike action which reportedly led to the loss of some 100,000 admissions. The operator said visitors who bought tickets between February 19 and 24 will get refunds.</p>

<p>Last week, Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Grégoire said extended closures during the COVID-19 pandemic deprived the landmark of 130 million euros ($141 million) in revenue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The iconic Parisian monument, the Eiffel Tower, on Sunday (Feb 25) is set to be reopened for visitors following a six-day closure due to strikes. The Eiffel Tower which witnesses thousands of visitors every day and is typically open 365 days a year has been closed for nearly a week, after workers went on a strike in a dispute over the way the tower was managed.

The iconic Parisian monument, the Eiffel Tower, on Sunday (Feb 25) is set to be reopened for visitors following a six-day closure due to strikes. The Eiffel Tower which witnesses thousands of visitors every day and is typically open 365 days a year has been closed for nearly a week, after workers went on a strike in a dispute over the way the tower was managed. The employees working at the Eiffel Tower walked out, on Monday (Feb 19) amid a dispute over the management of the monument and demanded a salary increase proportional to revenue from ticket sales. WATCH | Gravitas | Building the Eiffel Tower, one match at a time The workers have also demanded better maintenance of the 135-year-old tower which is reportedly starting to show traces of rust on some of its ironwork. A report by the French newspaper Le Monde said that the iconic tower has not been repainted for 14 years, rather than the usual seven, while other repair work is also falling behind schedule. Deal struck between Eiffel Tower operator and staff The Eiffel Tower’s operator, Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), said that a deal was struck between the workers’ union and the organisation, on Saturday (Feb 24), “under which the parties will regularly monitor the company’s business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months.” As both sides aim to balance their books by 2025 they have also agreed to invest around 380 million euros ($412 million) up to 2031 toward maintaining the tower, said the SETE in a statement. The strike came after the Confédération Générale du Travail (CGT) union said that workers had decided to strike over the Eiffel Tower operator’s business model. Also Read | Eiffel Tower topped pre-Covid visitor numbers in 2023 The powerful French union claimed that SETE’s model was based on an inflated estimate of the number of future visitors and an underestimation of the cost of maintenance and renovation of the Eiffel Tower. The strike that began less than a week ago was the second walkout in two months ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games this summer which will be hosted in the French capital city of Paris. Impact of strikes on visitors According to the Eiffel Tower’s website, the Parisian monument hosts approximately seven million visitors per year and around 25,000 people every day. The strikes also led to thousands of cancellations of tickets which tourists book months in advance. Also Read | Eiffel Tower closed as staff go on strike SETE extended apologies to visitors, who booked their tickets months in advance, caught in the strike action which reportedly led to the loss of some 100,000 admissions. The operator said visitors who bought tickets between February 19 and 24 will get refunds. Last week, Paris deputy mayor Emmanuel Grégoire said extended closures during the COVID-19 pandemic deprived the landmark of 130 million euros ($141 million) in revenue. (With inputs from agencies)

Eiffel Tower reopens after six-day closure due to workers’ strike

Israel will send negotiators to Qatar to continue talks aimed at a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of hostages held by Hamas. This comes after talks in Paris where Israel's Head of MOSSAD intelligence service met with mediators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar. Gaza truce talks were underway in Paris , in what appears to be the most serious push for weeks to halt the fighting in the battered Palestinian enclave and see Israeli and foreign hostages released. But airstrikes on Rafah continues, 8 people are reported to be dead. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Israel to send negotiators to Qatar for talks | Gaza ceasefire talks

Israel has sent negotiators on Friday for truce talks in Paris, as Gazans hoped for a ceasefire that could hold off a full-blown Israeli assault on Rafah, after it endured one of its worst bombardments of the conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his proposed plan for postwar Gaza and the International Community seems to be in disfavor. As per the plan Israel seeks open-ended control over security and civilian Affairs in the Gaza Strip. The Proposal was rejected by Palestinian leaders on Friday. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Negotiators in Paris for ceasefire talks as Gaza strikes continue

Israel has sent negotiators on Friday for truce talks in Paris, as Gazans hoped for a ceasefire that could hold off a full-blown Israeli assault on Rafah, after it endured one of its worst bombardments of the conflict.

Israel-Hamas war: Palestinian leaders reject Israel's post-war Gaza plan

<p>France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after&nbsp;the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions.</p>

<p>The stoppage since Monday (Feb19) at one of the world's best-known tourist sites was the second within two months in protest at what unions say was insufficient investment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2tt_aTY-wJFjQArQ2ZYlFI" data-ved="2ahUKEwi5svqdubeEAxWub2wGHSENAPYQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-cleaver-attack-paris-police-shoot-dead-sudan-born-man-691272" jsname="YKoRaf">France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man</a></strong></p>

<p>The tower's operator SETE said it had reached agreement with the unions on Saturday "under which the parties will regularly monitor the company's business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months".</p>

<p>With an aim to balance its books by 2025, both sides also agreed to see an investment of some 380 million euros up to 2031 toward works and maintenance of the tower, the statement said.</p>

<p>SETE extended apologies to visitors caught in the strike action, which resulted in the loss of some 100,000 admissions.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation</strong></p>

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<p>The Eiffel Tower booked a shortfall of around 120 million euros ($130 million) during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021.</p>

<p>SETE has since received a recapitalisation of 60 million euros, which unions say is insufficient given that major maintenance work is needed, including a fresh paint job.</p>

<p>Visitor numbers dropped sharply during Covid due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022 and 6.3 million last year.</p>

<p>The masterpiece by architect Gustave Eiffel has been repainted 19 times since it was built for the 1889 World Fair.</p>


France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions.

France's Eiffel Tower that had been closed for five days by a strike will reopen Sunday (Feb 25) after the monument's management announced a deal had been struck with unions. The stoppage since Monday (Feb19) at one of the world's best-known tourist sites was the second within two months in protest at what unions say was insufficient investment. Also read: France cleaver attack: Paris police shoot dead Sudan-born man The tower's operator SETE said it had reached agreement with the unions on Saturday "under which the parties will regularly monitor the company's business model, investment in works and revenue through a body that will meet every six months". With an aim to balance its books by 2025, both sides also agreed to see an investment of some 380 million euros up to 2031 toward works and maintenance of the tower, the statement said. SETE extended apologies to visitors caught in the strike action, which resulted in the loss of some 100,000 admissions. Watch: Paris witnesses more protests, sheep, dairy farmers hit streets asking for compensation × The Eiffel Tower booked a shortfall of around 120 million euros ($130 million) during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021. SETE has since received a recapitalisation of 60 million euros, which unions say is insufficient given that major maintenance work is needed, including a fresh paint job. Visitor numbers dropped sharply during Covid due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022 and 6.3 million last year. The masterpiece by architect Gustave Eiffel has been repainted 19 times since it was built for the 1889 World Fair.

Eiffel Tower to reopen Sunday as strike ends

<p>A group of French farmers disrupted a major Paris farm fair on Saturday just before President Emmanuel Macron's planned visit, expressing frustration over expenses, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental regulations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-in-france-685265" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-in-france-685265&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ1ra98sOEAxUdna8BHSo1ANIQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3A-SbZJrvbxmv5KBLzduMi" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-are-farmers-protesting-in-france-685265" target="_blank">Explained | Why are&nbsp;<b>farmers</b>&nbsp;protesting in&nbsp;<b>France</b>?</a></p>

<p>Facing a sizeable contingent of police officers inside the trade fair, the farmers voiced their discontent loudly, calling for Macron's resignation and directing explicit language at the French leader.</p>

<p>Shouting, "This is our home!" the farmers clashed with French CRS riot police attempting to control the demonstration. Witnesses reported some skirmishes and at least one protester was arrested.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Farmer protests erupt in France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany</strong></p>

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<p>Pascal Beteille, a participant in the demonstration, expressed scepticism about any positive outcomes from Macron's visit. "This is our home, and he's welcoming us with CRS," he remarked to Reuters.</p>

<p>After meeting with French farmers' union leaders, Macron, scheduled to tour the trade fair, addressed the situation, criticising the disruptive tactics. "I'm saying this for all farmers: you're not helping any of your colleagues by smashing up stands, you're not helping any of your colleagues by making the show impossible, and in a way scaring families away from coming," Macron told reporters.</p>

<p>The protests caused a delay in opening the show to the public by at least an hour. Macron announced plans to convene farmers' union representatives and other stakeholders at the Elysee Palace in three weeks after canceling a debate intended to take place at the fair with farmers, food processors, and retailers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-block-highways-amid-protests-against-government-thousands-of-police-deployed-684896" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-block-highways-amid-protests-against-government-thousands-of-police-deployed-684896&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ1ra98sOEAxUdna8BHSo1ANIQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Acecx260tGa_3bGneZ9WP" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-farmers-block-highways-amid-protests-against-government-thousands-of-police-deployed-684896" target="_blank"><b>French farmers</b>&nbsp;block highways amid protests against government</a></p>

<p>Macron denied reports of inviting the controversial environmentalist group Soulevements de la Terre to the debate, a move that further angered French farmers.</p>

<p>The impromptu heated discussion between Macron and demonstrators was broadcast live on French news channels. The Paris farm show, a significant event in France, attracts around 600,000 visitors over nine days and serves as a political platform for leaders to engage with the public under intense media scrutiny.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-top-farmers-union-call-for-end-to-road-blockades-686056" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-top-farmers-union-call-for-end-to-road-blockades-686056&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ1ra98sOEAxUdna8BHSo1ANIQFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3mGAXkX6MWyPwWCPvw7b2r" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frances-top-farmers-union-call-for-end-to-road-blockades-686056" target="_blank"><b>France's</b>&nbsp;top&nbsp;<b>farmers</b>' unions call for end to road blockades</a></p>

<p>Amid growing concerns about the political repercussions of farmers' protests, which have spread across Europe, Macron sought to address the issue. The protests, representing a growing constituency for the far right, resumed this week despite Prime Minister Gabriel Attal's promise of new measures worth 400 million euros ($433 million) earlier this month.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A group of French farmers disrupted a major Paris farm fair on Saturday just before President Emmanuel Macron's planned visit, expressing frustration over expenses, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental regulations.

A group of French farmers disrupted a major Paris farm fair on Saturday just before President Emmanuel Macron's planned visit, expressing frustration over expenses, bureaucratic hurdles, and environmental regulations. Also read: Explained | Why are farmers protesting in France? Facing a sizeable contingent of police officers inside the trade fair, the farmers voiced their discontent loudly, calling for Macron's resignation and directing explicit language at the French leader. Shouting, "This is our home!" the farmers clashed with French CRS riot police attempting to control the demonstration. Witnesses reported some skirmishes and at least one protester was arrested. Watch: Farmer protests erupt in France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany × Pascal Beteille, a participant in the demonstration, expressed scepticism about any positive outcomes from Macron's visit. "This is our home, and he's welcoming us with CRS," he remarked to Reuters. After meeting with French farmers' union leaders, Macron, scheduled to tour the trade fair, addressed the situation, criticising the disruptive tactics. "I'm saying this for all farmers: you're not helping any of your colleagues by smashing up stands, you're not helping any of your colleagues by making the show impossible, and in a way scaring families away from coming," Macron told reporters. The protests caused a delay in opening the show to the public by at least an hour. Macron announced plans to convene farmers' union representatives and other stakeholders at the Elysee Palace in three weeks after canceling a debate intended to take place at the fair with farmers, food processors, and retailers. Also read: French farmers block highways amid protests against government Macron denied reports of inviting the controversial environmentalist group Soulevements de la Terre to the debate, a move that further angered French farmers. The impromptu heated discussion between Macron and demonstrators was broadcast live on French news channels. The Paris farm show, a significant event in France, attracts around 600,000 visitors over nine days and serves as a political platform for leaders to engage with the public under intense media scrutiny. Also read: France's top farmers' unions call for end to road blockades Amid growing concerns about the political repercussions of farmers' protests, which have spread across Europe, Macron sought to address the issue. The protests, representing a growing constituency for the far right, resumed this week despite Prime Minister Gabriel Attal's promise of new measures worth 400 million euros ($433 million) earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

French farmers disrupt Paris farm fair ahead of Macron's visit

The Israel-Hamas war cabinet decided on Thursday to send a delegation to Paris on Friday for crucial negotiations on a hostage agreement and related ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

Israel-Hamas war: Israel's Mossad Chief heads to Paris for hostage talks

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