2020 France Special Weapons News

France's New Daily COVID-19 Cases A Little Down But Still close to 20,000 SPA 31 Dec 2020 -- The French health ministry reported 19,927 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours today, on Thursday, down from Wednesday's more than one-month high of 26,457 but still far from the government's target of less than 5,000 daily additional infections, according to Reuters.
France's new coronavirus infections above 26,000 over 24 hours SPA 31 Dec 2020 -- The French health ministry reported 26,457 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours on Wednesday, up sharply from 11,395 on Tuesday, and a level unseen since Nov. 18, Reuters reported.
France starts COVID-19 vaccinations as 78-year-old woman receives first dose People's Daily 28 Dec 2020 -- A 78-year-old woman received the first dose of vaccine in France on Sunday morning, marking the start of the vaccination campaign in the west European country.
Three French Soldiers Killed by Explosive Device During Operation in Mali Sputnik 28 Dec 2020 -- Three French soldiers have been killed after their armored vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in Mali on Monday morning, the Elysee Palace's press department said.
France reports 146 COVID-19 deaths in past 24 hours Global Times 27 Dec 2020 -- France reported 146 deaths caused by COVID-19 infection in the past 24 hours, according to data released on Saturday by the health authorities.
France, Romania Receive First Doses of Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine VOA 26 Dec 2020 -- France on Saturday received its first batches of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, which were delivered to the Paris hospital pharmacy network.
France Records First Infection of Coronavirus Variant from Britain SPA 26 Dec 2020 -- The French health ministry announced today, on Friday the detection of the first case of the coronavirus variant that has spread in Britain.
France Records 20,262 More COVID-19 Cases, 159 More Deaths in Last 24 Hours SPA 25 Dec 2020 -- France registered 20,262 new, confirmed COVID-19 cases and 159 more related deaths in hospitals in the last 24 hours, Reuters cited the French health ministry data as showing.
France Records First Case of New Coronavirus Variant VOA 25 Dec 2020 -- French health officials say the country has recorded its first case of the new COVID-19 variant that has led to new lockdowns in Britain and global travel restrictions on British residents.
France reports another 14,929 coronavirus cases People's Daily 24 Dec 2020 -- France reported another 14,929 coronavirus cases and 276 more deaths in the past 24 hours, according to data released on Wednesday by the Health Ministry.
France sends warplanes to fly over CAR as general elections loom Press TV 24 Dec 2020 -- France has sent warplanes to fly over the Central African Republic (CAR), with French President Emmanuel Macron claiming that the move is aimed at preventing the disruption of the upcoming elections in the former French colony.
France Lifts Britain Travel Ban VOA 23 Dec 2020 -- France began allowing people to enter the country from Britain again Wednesday after several days in which it and other European nations imposed travel bans to contain a COVID-19 variant spreading in Britain.
France allows travelers from UK to enter with negative COVID-19 test People's Daily 23 Dec 2020 -- France will lift its ban on travel from the United Kingdom (UK) from Wednesday subject to a negative COVID-19 test result, the Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday.
New coronavirus cases in France stable compared with a week ago SPA 23 Dec 2020 -- France reported 11,795 new confirmed COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, up from 5,797 on Monday and nearly unchanged from 11,532 a week ago, raising the overall total to 2.49 million, health ministry data showed.
Britain Holds Urgent Talks With France to Lift Coronavirus Blockade VOA 21 Dec 2020 -- Britain became more isolated Monday as additional countries imposed bans on British commercial airline flights, automobile journeys and cross-Channel trains and freight because of rising international alarm over a more infectious coronavirus strain that has flared in London and southern England.
France to suspend all travel from UK for 48 hours People's Daily 21 Dec 2020 -- France is to suspend from Sunday midnight (Paris time) for 48 hours all travel from the United Kingdom, "including people related to the transport of goods, by road, air, sea or rail," the Prime Minister's Office announced following a cabinet meeting.
Macron Says France Needs to Boost Vigilance Over Mutated Coronavirus Strain Sputnik 21 Dec 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday said it was necessary to be extra vigilant regarding the fresh discovery of the mutated coronavirus strain in the UK.
France Gives UK 'Few More Days' to Discuss Brexit Agreement as Johnson Says Gov't Ready for No-Deal Sputnik 21 Dec 2020 -- Earlier in the day, the Labour Party leader, Sir Keir Starmer, rejected the idea of calling for an extension to the Brexit transition period because of the coronavirus crisis and urged the Prime Minister to prove he can "get Brexit done" with his promised "oven-ready deal".
France Arrests Four Linked to Meat Cleaver Attack VOA 18 Dec 2020 -- France says it arrested four people linked to a September 25 meat cleaver attack in Paris, outside the former offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo.
France reports 18,254 new COVID-19 cases People's Daily 18 Dec 2020 -- Two days after France lifted a nationwide lockdown, coronavirus indicators showed "worrying" acceleration of circulation ahead of the Christmas holiday period, Health General Director Jerome Salomon said on Thursday.
France's President Emmanuel Macron tests positive for COVID-19 People's Daily 18 Dec 2020 -- France's President Emmanuel Macron has tested positive for COVID-19 and will self-isolate for the next week.
French Submarine Deployment to Western Pacific Presents Rare Training Opportunity for Guam-Based Boat US Navy 17 Dec 2020 -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Asheville (SSN 758) had the rare opportunity to train with French crew this month, conducting a series of at-sea submarine exercises with the Rubis-class nuclear powered submarine (SSN) FS Émeraude.
USS John S. McCain Joins French, Japanese Navies for Multinational Exercise US Navy 17 Dec 2020 -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) joined the French Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) for integrated exercises in the Philippine Sea throughout the week.
French President Macron Tests Positive for Coronavirus VOA 17 Dec 2020 -- The French government says President Emmanuel Macron has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
French President Macron Tests Positive for COVID-19 Sputnik 17 Dec 2020 -- With a second wave of the coronavirus currently ongoing in France, the COVID-19 lockdown in the country was replaced with a dusk-to-dawn curfew from 8.00 pm to 6.00 am (19:00 to 05:00 GMT) starting from 15 December.
French Court Convicts Accomplices of Charlie Hebdo Attackers VOA 16 Dec 2020 -- A French court has convicted 14 accomplices in connection with the January 2015 attacks on the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine and a Jewish supermarket in Paris.
France Expels 75 More Foreign Extremists as Part of Counter-Terrorism Response, Minister Says Sputnik 16 Dec 2020 -- France has expelled 75 more foreigners listed for radicalisation within the state-backed roadmap to curb the terrorist threat, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Wednesday.
France's COVID-19 cases up by 11,532, deaths top 59,000 as lockdown ends People's Daily 16 Dec 2020 -- France reported on Tuesday 11,532 new COVID-19 infections within 24 hours, and 790 new deaths as the government relaxed restrictive rules ahead of year-end festivities, health authorities data showed.
OSCE Minsk Group Reaffirms Commitment to Constructive Cooperation on Nagorno-Karabakh Sputnik 15 Dec 2020 -- The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Russia, France and the United States), after their visits to Baku and Yerevan, reaffirmed their commitment to constructive cooperation with the sides on Nagorno-Karabakh settlement, the Co-Chairs said in a joint statement.
Iran Summons German, French Envoys Over EU Condemnation Of Journalist's Hanging RFE/RL 13 Dec 2020 -- Iran has summoned the German and French ambassadors to Tehran after the European Union condemned the execution of an Iranian journalist whose online work helped inspire anti-government protests in 2017, Iranian state media report.
French Daily COVID-19 Infections Rise to 13,947 SPA 12 Dec 2020 -- France recorded 13,947 new confirmed COVID-19 cases today, on Saturday, up from the previous daily tally of 13,406, Reuters cited data as publishing on a government website.
France to Replace COVID-19 Lockdown With Curfew Starting Next Week Sputnik 10 Dec 2020 -- The coronavirus lockdown in France will be replaced with a dusk-to-dawn curfew from 8.00 pm to 6.00 am (19:00 to 05:00 GMT) starting from 15 December, as the country struggles to contain the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, French Prime Minister Jean Castex said on Thursday.
France's reopening plan in doubt as another 14,595 COVID-19 cases tallied People's Daily 10 Dec 2020 -- France on Wednesday tallied 14,595 COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, up from 13,713 registered the previous day, casting into doubt the government's plan to relax lockdown by mid-December, health authorities data showed.
Xi, Macron reach important consensus on China-France cooperation in next stage People's Daily 10 Dec 2020 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron reached important consensus on China-France cooperation in the next stage during a phone conversation on Wednesday evening.
Communiqué_First launch of the renovated ASMPA strategic missile Ministere des Armees 09 Dec 2020 -- Florence Parly, Minister of the Armed Forces, expresses her great satisfaction after the success, on December 9, 2020, of the first firing of the renovated strategic air-to-ground medium-range missile (ASMPA).
France to build new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, says Macron People's Daily 09 Dec 2020 -- France will replace its Navy's flagship Charles de Gaulle with a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier by 2038, President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday.
France Unveils Design for Nuclear-Powered Supercarrier to Replace Aging Warship De Gaulle Sputnik 09 Dec 2020 -- The new warship will be the largest France has ever built, just as the UK Royal Navy’s new aircraft carrier, the HMS Queen Elizabeth, is its largest ever. However, Paris’ newly announced carrier isn’t expected to enter service for nearly 20 years.
France far from target to relax COVID-19 restrictions: health official People's Daily 08 Dec 2020 -- France is far from reaching the 5,000 daily target for new COVID-19 cases set by the government as a condition for lifting a nationwide lockdown, Director General of Health Jerome Salomon said Monday.
Cyprus, Greece, France and Italy hold aeronautical exercise People's Daily 08 Dec 2020 -- An aeronautical exercise involving forces from Cyprus, Greece, France and Italy took place in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Cypriot Defense Ministry said on Monday.
Russian fighter jet intercepts U.S., French planes over Black Sea People's Daily 08 Dec 2020 -- A Russian Su-30 fighter jet of the Southern Military District was scrambled Monday to intercept U.S. and French aircraft over the Black Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Naval Group welcomes the decision of the President of the French Republic to launch the studies of a future Aircraft Carrier Naval Group 08 Dec 2020 -- The President of the Republic announced the launch of studies for the replacement of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier by a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier by 2038.
France won't condition defense cooperation with Egypt on human rights, says Macron People's Daily 08 Dec 2020 -- President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that France will not condition its defense cooperation with Egypt on human rights because he did not want to weaken Cairo's ability to fight against terrorism.
Russian Computer Expert Wanted In U.S. Sentenced In France For Money Laundering RFE/RL 07 Dec 2020 -- A Russian man wanted by the United States for a massive bitcoin theft scheme has been sentenced by a French court to five years in prison for money laundering.
Russia's Su-30 Intercepts US, French Spy Planes Over Black Sea Sputnik 07 Dec 2020 -- Russian fighter Su-30 intercepted the US and French reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea on Monday, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defence Control Centre (NDCC) told reporters.
European trio: Iran plan to ramp up enrichment 'deeply worrying' Press TV 07 Dec 2020 -- France, Germany and Britain say they are worried by an Iranian plan to install additional, advanced uranium-enriching centrifuges at Natanz nuclear facility.
European Powers 'Deeply Worried' By Iran's Uranium Enrichment Plans RFE/RL 07 Dec 2020 -- Britain, France, and Germany say Iran's apparent plan to install additional advanced centrifuges at its main nuclear enrichment facility is "deeply worrying" and contrary to the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
France, Germany & UK 'Concerned' Over Iran's Plan to Set Up New Centrifuges at Natanz Nuclear Site Sputnik 07 Dec 2020 -- Iran stopped adhering to the requirements of the 2015 nuclear deal in May 2019 after the US withdrew from the accord and imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
Macron dismisses calls to get tough with Egypt's Sisi on human rights Press TV 07 Dec 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has defied widespread criticism of his close ties with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi over flagrant human rights violations in the African country, saying Paris will not take a tough line on the government in Cairo and would not condition the sale of weapons as well as military equipment to Egypt.
France's Macron Says Human Rights Not a Condition for Egypt Arms Sales VOA 07 Dec 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday he would not make human rights a condition for the sale of weapons to Egypt because he did not want to weaken Cairo's ability to counter terrorism in the region.
Human Rights Issues Cloud France's Dealings With Egypt VOA 07 Dec 2020 -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday to boost economic and military ties with France. The dealings present a dilemma for the French government in light of Egypt's poor human rights record.
France adds 12,923 COVID-19 cases, 216 deaths People's Daily 06 Dec 2020 -- France registered 12,923 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, taking its national count to 2,281,475, data from the country's health authorities showed.
Japan, France, US set to hold joint war games in May as 'message' to China Press TV 06 Dec 2020 -- Japan, France, and the United States are reportedly set to hold joint military drills for the first time in May next year, as part of attempts to contain what is claimed as China's growing influence in the Asia Pacific region.
France Reports Fall in Daily COVID Hospital Deaths on Saturday SPA 05 Dec 2020 -- French health authorities reported a further fall in daily hospital deaths from COVID-19 today, on Saturday and said the total number of hospital admissions due to the disease had also declined over the past 24 hours, Reuters reported.
New Coronavirus Infections in France Remain on Downward Trend SPA 04 Dec 2020 -- France today, on Friday reported 11,221 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, down from 12,696 on Thursday and 12,459 last Friday in a continuation of an almost month-long downward trend, Reuters cited French health authorities as announcing.
Erdogan hopes France will 'get rid of' Macron soon Press TV 04 Dec 2020 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he hopes France will "get rid of" President Emmanuel Macron in the shortest possible time, in his harshest remark against the French leader yet.
Turkey's Erdogan Hopes France Will Get Rid of 'Burden' of Macron Soon Sputnik 04 Dec 2020 -- Relations between the two countries have drastically deteriorated in recent months over Macron's comments on Islam and controversial caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. However, the two countries also disagree on a number of issues, such as Nagorno-Karabakh, the war in Syria, and Turkey's oil and gas exploration in the Mediterranean.
Former French President Giscard D'estaing Dies of COVID VOA 03 Dec 2020 -- France is mourning the death of its former president Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, as a result of contracting the COVID-19 virus. Giscard led France for seven years, from 1974 to 1981 and many now remember him as a reformer and a champion of European unity.
Former French president Valery Giscard d'Estaing dies at 94 People's Daily 03 Dec 2020 -- Valery Giscard d'Estaing, president of France from 1974 to 1981 and a key actor in European integration, has died on Wednesday at the age of 94, French media reported.
Most European Governments to Ease Pandemic Rules Over Christmas Holiday, But Fearfully VOA 01 Dec 2020 -- All Europeans want is a merry and bright Christmas season, just like the ones they used to know. And under public pressure some governments are easing their pandemic restrictions in a bid to salvage something of the holiday spirit.
EU Leader Hopes COVID-19 Vaccinations Start in December VOA 01 Dec 2020 -- The European Union said Tuesday it could be vaccinating citizens against COVID-19 by the end of the month if medical officials grant emergency approval of two vaccines candidates.
After Protests, France Moves to Amend Security Law Text VOA 01 Dec 2020 -- For weeks, NGOs including the press freedom group Reporters Without Borders, have expressed concerns over the draft bill, especially its Article 24, which would make it a criminal offense for anyone to disseminate images that — according to the text — might "harm the physical or mental integrity" of police officers.
France Faces Public Resistance to COVID Vaccine VOA 30 Nov 2020 -- As French authorities prepare to roll out their COVID immunization strategy this week, they face skepticism in a country where surveys show many people do not trust the vaccine.
French court orders government to loosen coronavirus rules on religious services People's Daily 30 Nov 2020 -- France's highest administrative court on Sunday ordered the government to rethink a 30-person attendance limit for religious services to contain the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic.
France's new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations continue to fall People's Daily 30 Nov 2020 -- French health authorities on Sunday confirmed 9,784 new COVID-19 cases, down from 12,580 registered a day before, while the daily fatalities slowed for the second consecutive day amid improved situation in health establishments.
France sees further fall in COVID-19 hospitalizations as lockdown exit starts Global Times 29 Nov 2020 -- The COVID-19 hospitalizations in France further declined on Saturday as the country started a three-stage lockdown exit.
UK and France in new English Channel migration control agreement Press TV 28 Nov 2020 -- After a year of record migrant crossings across the English Channel, the UK and France have reached a new agreement to tackle illegal migrant crossings.
Europe Coronavirus Updates: France's COVID-19 data improve, Italy's infections plateau; Germany to extend partial lockdown People's Daily 27 Nov 2020 -- The following are the latest developments of the COVID-19 pandemic in European countries.
France unveils gradual easing of nationwide coronavirus lockdown People's Daily 26 Nov 2020 -- French people will enjoy more freedom in outdoor exercises starting Saturday, and the nationwide coronavirus lockdown could be lifted on Dec. 15 if health conditions are met, President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday in a TV address.
Azerbaijan lawmakers urge French removal from Karabakh mediation Press TV 26 Nov 2020 -- Azerbaijan's lawmakers have called for France to be stripped of its mediation role in the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute to punish Paris for adopting a resolution backing the secession of the region.
Azerbaijan's Parliament Calls For French Removal From Nagorno-Karabakh Mediation RFE/RL 26 Nov 2020 -- Azerbaijani lawmakers on November 26 called for France to be expelled from the Minsk Group mediating in the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute after the French Senate backed the breakaway region's independence claim.
Former French President Sarkozy Faces Corruption Charges VOA 26 Nov 2020 -- Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy went on trial Thursday to face corruption charges. Sarkozy is accused of trying to bribe a judge to obtain information about an investigation into his 2007 presidential campaign. The former head of state insists he is innocent.
France envisages gradual lockdown exit: official People's Daily 23 Nov 2020 -- As the countdown on the second confinement starts amid improved epidemic data, France envisaged a three-stage process to return to normalcy to avoid the virus resurgence, government spokesperson Gabriel Attal announced on Sunday.
France at Odds with Mali Plan to Dialogue with Jihadists VOA 23 Nov 2020 -- The eight-year Islamist insurgency in the West African nation of Mali shows no sign of ending and after an August coup toppled President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. The country's transitional government has indicated it is willing to open dialogue with all armed groups. France, which has more than 5,000 troops in the country, has warned against any discussions with jihadists.
France's former President Sarkozy appears in court on corruption charges Press TV 23 Nov 2020 -- Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy has gone on trial on charges of corruption and influence peddling, becoming the first ex-president in France to appear in the dock.
France reports 17,881 new confirmed Covid-19 cases in 24 hours SPA 22 Nov 2020 -- The number of new coronavirus infections in France rose by 17,881 on Saturday, lower than the 22,882 reported on Friday.
Macron accuses Turkey, Russia of pushing anti-French sentiment in Africa Press TV 21 Nov 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Turkey and Russia of whipping up anti-France sentiments across Africa by funding individuals that incite resentment against Paris in the local media.
New Coronavirus Cases in France Stable, Hospitalisations Drop SPA 20 Nov 2020 -- The number of new coronavirus infections in France rose by 22,882 to 2.11 million today, on Friday, slightly higher than the 21,140 reported on Thursday, while hospital numbers eased again, according to Reuters tally.
Five nations join forces to develop the Next Generation of Medium Multi-Role Helicopters NATO 20 Nov 2020 -- France, Germany, Greece, Italy and the United Kingdom announced the launch of a multinational project on Next-Generation Rotorcraft Capabilities on 19 November 2020.
Macron Says Russia, Turkey Fuel Anti-French Sentiment in Africa Sputnik 20 Nov 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday said that the rise of anti-French sentiment in the African countries was sparked by Russia and Turkey, which speculate on the French colonial history.
France's COVID-19 cases top 2 mln, epidemic indicators improving Global Times 19 Nov 2020 -- France on Tuesday became the first European country to record over two millions of confirmed COVID-19 cases, although epidemic indicators were gradually improving, said Health General Director Jerome Salomon.
France's COVID-19-related deaths and cases decreasing People's Daily 19 Nov 2020 -- France on Wednesday reported 425 COVID-19-related deaths, compared to Tuesday's 437, pushing up the country's death toll caused by the coronavirus to 46,698, according to the country's health authorities.
France's Catholics Protest Lockdown Measures VOA 18 Nov 2020 -- In many countries, COVID lockdowns have included bans on gatherings in places of worship. In France, the current restrictions on services at churches have prompted protests from the country's Catholics, and they have been taking to the streets.
Coronavirus-related deaths rise by 506 in France People's Daily 17 Nov 2020 -- France on Monday reported 506 more deaths caused by the novel coronavirus, up from Sunday's 302, data released by the health authorities showed.
Pakistani Islamists End Protest Against France After Government Promise RFE/RL Gandhara 17 Nov 2020 -- An Islamist group on November 17 ended the blockade of an entrance into Pakistan's capital after the government promised to discuss the expulsion of the French ambassador.
Pakistan govt. agrees to boycott French products after protests: Party Press TV 17 Nov 2020 -- A Pakistani party says it has called off anti-France protests because the government has agreed to boycott French products over French President Emmanuel Macron's defense of offensive cartoons of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
France reports 27,228 new COVID-19 cases SPA 16 Nov 2020 -- France reported today 27,228 new cases of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing the total number of cases to 198,1827 cases.
Suspected IS Terrorist Goes on Trial in Paris VOA 16 Nov 2020 -- A suspected Islamic State gunman who opened fire aboard a high-speed train in France in 2015 is going on trial Monday in Paris.
Pompeo Visits France for Economic, Security Talks VOA 16 Nov 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with French President Emmanuel Macron and other leaders Monday for economic and security talks.
Secretary Pompeo's Meeting with French Foreign Minister Le Drian US Dept. of State 16 Nov 2020
Secretary Pompeo's Meeting with French President Macron US Dept. of State 16 Nov 2020
New COVID-19 Cases and Deaths Rise Sharply in France SPA 14 Nov 2020 -- The number of confirmed new COVID-19 cases and deaths in France rose sharply in the last 24 hours, Reuters cited French health ministry data as publishing today, on Saturday.
France Marks 5 Years Since November 2015 Paris Attacks VOA 13 Nov 2020 -- Five years after the deadly Paris attacks that killed more than 100 people in November 2015, the country paid tribute to the victims Friday. This anniversary is taking place amid a new terror threat as France has been targeted by radical Islamists in recent months.
Macron Says France Ready To Help Building Lasting Solution To Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict RFE/RL 13 Nov 2020 -- With a Russia-brokered truce between Armenia and Azerbaijan continuing to hold in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, French President Emmanuel Macron says he is ready to help build a lasting and balanced solution for all sides in the conflict.
Readout of Acting Secretary of Defense Mr. Christopher C. Miller Phone Call With French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 13 Nov 2020
France, Germany Laud Ukraine's Opening Of New Crossing Points To Separatist-Held Territory RFE/RL 13 Nov 2020 -- France and Germany have welcomed Kyiv's opening of new crossing points along the contact line with separatist territory in Ukraine's east, and have called on separatist authorities and their ally Russia to respond in kind by opening crossing points to separatist-controlled areas.
Lavrov Says Moscow To Announce Tit-For-Tat Sanctions Against Top German, French Officials RFE/RL 12 Nov 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow is going to be announcing retaliatory measures against top German and French officials in tit-for-tat sanctions sparked by the poisoning of outspoken Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny with a nerve agent in August.
Russia to impose sanctions on German, French officials in tit-for-tat move over Navalny: Lavrov Press TV 12 Nov 2020 -- Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Russia will soon impose retaliatory sanctions on German and French officials over the alleged poisoning of the Russian opposition figure, Alexei Navalny.
Macron calls for EU-wide coordination in response to terrorism People's Daily 11 Nov 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday called for enhanced efforts across the European Union (EU) to fight terrorism in a "rapid, coordinated and joint" approach, noting many European cities have been troubled by the problem.
Will Border Security Solve Europe's Terror Threat? VOA 11 Nov 2020 -- France and Germany have called for much stronger external border security following recent terror attacks in Europe. Experts say, however, that such measures alone are unlikely to solve the problem.
EU Leaders Urge 'Rapid and Coordinated' Response to Terror Attacks VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- After the recent terror attacks in France and Austria, European leaders held a summit Tuesday in France to coordinate the response against terrorism, and they are pushing for a "common coordinated and rapid" European response to counterterror attacks.
Macron: France Demands Turkey Stop All Provocations Vis-a-Vis Nagorno-Karabakh Standoff Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- The Elysee's statements follow a number of fiery exchanges between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Turkish couterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, including on the issue of the ethnic Armenian enclave Nagorno-Karabakh, and threats of Islamist terrorism.
France's epidemic situation "very worrying" despite glimmer of hopes: Health official People's Daily 10 Nov 2020 -- French Director-General of Health Jerome Salomon on Monday warned that the most aggressive phase of the epidemic's second wave "is still ahead of us," even if a slowdown in the virus circulation in cities, where curfews were imposed, offered "signs of hope."
Why Is France the Top European Target for Jihadists? VOA 09 Nov 2020 -- After arriving on a migrant boat at Italy's Lampedusa island in September, Brahim Aouissaoui, a 21-year-old Tunisian, traveled more than 1,000 additional miles to arrive in the French city of Nice where he is suspected of a terror attack at a church.
Putin, Macron Discuss Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict As Armenia Claims Key Stronghold Shelled RFE/RL 07 Nov 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh with his French and Turkish counterparts as Armenia reported "fierce combat" overnight near a key city in the disputed region.
France Posts Record 60,486 New Coronavirus Cases SPA 06 Nov 2020 -- France registered a record 60,486 new confirmed coronavirus cases today, on Friday, after posting a record 58,046 on Thursday, Reuters cited health ministry data as showing.
France's Macron announces border control beef-up, calls for Schengen overhaul Global Times 06 Nov 2020 -- France has decided to double its forces of border control to fight against the terrorist threat, President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday.
France Condemns Turkey's 'Declarations Of Violence' RFE/RL 05 Nov 2020 -- France has condemned what it called "declarations of violence" by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and raised the possibility of new sanctions against Ankara.
Turkey vows 'firm' response to France ban on 'Grey Wolves' Press TV 04 Nov 2020 -- Turkey has vowed to 'respond in the firmest way' to France's decision to dissolve the Turkish Grey Wolves group.
France reports 52,518 coronavirus cases in one day, an all-time high People's Daily 03 Nov 2020 -- France reported 52,518 cases of coronavirus infection in the past 24 hours, bringing the accumulative total of cases in the country since the outbreak of the epidemic to 1,466,433, according to data from the health authorities released on Monday.
France To Ban Turkish Ultranationalist Gray Wolves After Anti-Armenian Activities RFE/RL 03 Nov 2020 -- France will ban the Turkish ultranationalist Gray Wolves group, the interior minister said, days after its members were linked to anti-Armenian demonstrations and vandalism.
France's daily COVID-19 count surges again to 46,2907 People's Daily 02 Nov 2020 -- France on Sunday recorded 46,290 new coronavirus cases in a 24-hour span, raising the country's total infections to 1.41 million since the beginning of the pandemic, data from the country's health authority showed.
France's daily COVID-19 count surges again to 46,290 Global Times 02 Nov 2020 -- France on Sunday recorded 46,290 new coronavirus cases in a 24-hour span, raising the country's total infections to 1.41 million since the beginning of the pandemic, data from the country's health authority showed.
France's confirmed coronavirus cases rise by 46,290 SPA 02 Nov 2020 -- New confirmed coronavirus cases rose by 46,290 in France in the past 24 hours, official data showed on Sunday, while the number of people needing treatment in intensive care also crept up, according to Reuters.
UK and France able to deploy a 10,000 strong joint military force in response to shared threats UK MOD 02 Nov 2020 -- This major milestone comes as the two countries commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Lancaster House defence and security, and nuclear treaties.
Coronavirus-French Death Toll Up By 224 at 36,788 SPA 01 Nov 2020 -- France said today that 224 more people had died from the new coronavirus over the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 36,788, as the number of confirmed cases rose by 35,641, Reuters reported.
Security Remains High in France After Deadly Knife Attack at Church in Nice VOA 31 Oct 2020 -- Security throughout France was high Saturday after this week's deadly stabbings at a church in Nice as President Emmanuel Macron tried to ease tensions in the country.
Why Depicting Prophet Muhammad Is Controversial in Islam? VOA 31 Oct 2020 -- The recent decapitation of a French schoolteacher in a Parisian suburb over showing caricatures of Prophet Muhammad to his class is the latest in a series of violent attacks in recent years over depictions of Islam's holiest figure.
2nd Suspect Held After Deadly Knife Attack at French Church VOA 30 Oct 2020 -- Police in France have detained a second suspect in connection with Thursday's deadly knife attack at a church in the city of Nice.
French Terror Suspect Entered Europe Through Italian Port, Italy Says VOA 30 Oct 2020 -- Italy's interior minister confirmed Friday the Tunisian man who killed three people in an attack on worshippers at a church in Nice had passed through Italy on his way to France.
Anti-French Protests Held In Pakistan, Afghanistan As France Girds Itself After Latest Attack RFE/RL Gandhara 30 Oct 2020 -- A wave of protests has swept across Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other parts of the Muslim world amid growing anger over France's defense of the right to publish cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad.
UN strongly condemns knife attack inside Nice church which left three dead UN News 29 Oct 2020 -- The UN Secretary-General on Thursday strongly condemned a knife attack inside a French church in the southern French city of Nice, which reportedly left three worshippers dead.
French Authorities Identify Suspect in Deadly Knife Attack VOA 29 Oct 2020 -- French authorities have identified the suspect in a knife attack that left three dead in the southern city of Nice.
France-Turkey Dispute Grows Over Cartoons and Influence in Africa VOA 29 Oct 2020 -- The war of words between France and Turkey over cartoons portraying Islam's Prophet Muhammad, triggered by the recent beheading of a French teacher, continues to escalate. But behind the diplomatic storm over freedom of expression versus religious sensitivity is a bitter rivalry for influence in Africa.
France, Germany Impose New Lockdown Measures as COVID-19 Cases Soar VOA 29 Oct 2020 -- A rising tide of new coronavirus cases has prompted the leaders of France and Germany to impose a new round of lockdowns to stop the spread of the virus.
France to go back into nationwide lockdown as COVID-19 second wave hits hard People's Daily 29 Oct 2020 -- France will go into national lockdown starting from Friday to stem the second wave of the coronavirus epidemic, President Emmanuel Macron announced on Wednesday evening.
France's Macron Warns Second COVID-19 Outbreak Will be Harder, More Deadly Than First Sputnik 29 Oct 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has said that the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic will be tougher and more deadly than the spring outbreak, as the disease continues to circulate widely across French mainland.
France's Macron Imposes Second Lockdown to Curb COVID-19 Spread Sputnik 28 Oct 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron will reimpose a nationwide lockdown starting Friday to curb the spread of COVID-19.
French Hospital Federation Calls on Gov't to Impose National Lockdown Amid COVID-19 Surge Sputnik 28 Oct 2020 -- The Hospital Federation of France (FHF) on Wednesday has urged the country's government to reintroduce a nationwide lockdown in order to ease the pressure on health care services amid a surge in new COVID-19 cases.
France to go back into nationwide lockdown as COVID-19 second wave hits hard Global Times 29 Oct 2020 -- France will go into national lockdown starting from Friday to stem the second wave of the coronavirus epidemic, President Emmanuel Macron announced on Wednesday evening.
Second lockdown looms in France as coronavirus rages unabated People's Daily 27 Oct 2020 -- France, which is hit hard by the second wave of COVID-19 in recent weeks, may soon need to enter a new phase of confinement, experts warned on Monday.
France Urges Caution For Citizens As Outrage Grows In Muslim World Over Cartoons RFE/RL Gandhara 27 Oct 2020 -- France has warned its citizens living or traveling in several Muslim-majority countries to be extra cautious amid a wave of fury over cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad.
France reports daily record of over 50,000 new coronavirus cases People's Daily 26 Oct 2020 -- France registered 52,010 new cases of COVID-19 infection in a 24-hour span, a new daily record after a record 45,422 on Saturday, ac
Su-27 Fighter Intercepts French Bombers Over Black Sea - Russian MoD Sputnik 26 Oct 2020 -- The Russian Ministry of Defense announced on Monday that a Russian Air Force Su-27 fighter had intercepted several French attack aircraft in international airspace over the Black Sea.
Erdogan Calls for Boycott of French Goods VOA 26 Oct 2020 -- Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan told Turkish citizens to boycott French goods in response to what he says is France's "anti-Islam" agenda.
Muslim Anger Aimed At France Grows Over Cartoon Row RFE/RL 26 Oct 2020 -- France faces a growing backlash over images being displayed in the country of the Prophet Mohammad, which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
France's COVID-19 cases top 1 mln as daily tally hits new high Global Times 25 Oct 2020 -- Following Spain, France on Friday became the second country in Europe to pass the grim one-million mark, after new COVID-19 infections surged by over 40,000 for the second day in a row, health authorities reported.
France Reports Record of over 45,000 New Coronavirus Cases in A Day SPA 24 Oct 2020 -- France today, on Saturday reported 45,422 new confirmed coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, a new record, after reporting 42,032 yesterday, according to Reuters.
France Reports Record New COVID-19 Cases, at More than 40,000 SPA 22 Oct 2020 -- French health authorities reported 41,622 new confirmed COVID-19 cases over 24 hours today, on Thursday, an all-time daily high that was published shortly after the government announced a broad extension of the curfew put in place a week ago in Paris and other major cities, according to Reuters.
France, Spain Become Latest Nations to Have More Than 1 Million COVID-19 Cases VOA 22 Oct 2020 -- The number of nations with more than 1 million confirmed COVID-19 cases has risen to seven.
France Will Not Renounce Caricatures, Will Defend Freedom After Teacher Murder, Macron Says Sputnik 21 Oct 2020 -- France will never renounce caricatures and will further defend freedom, President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday during a commemoration ceremony for the French history teacher, Samuel Paty, murdered after showing caricatures depicting Islamic Prophet Muhammad to his students.
France Pays Homage to Slain Teacher Even as Some Question Secular Creed VOA 21 Oct 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron paid a soaring tribute to slain history teacher Samuel Paty during a national commemoration Wednesday at Paris' Sorbonne University, describing him as incarnating values of tolerance and learning, and describing in bleak terms the threat of radical Islam.
France reports 20,468 new COVID-19 cases, 262 deaths People's Daily 21 Oct 2020 -- A total of 20,468 new COVID-19 cases were registered in the past 24 hours in France, while the epidemic-related fatalities rose sharply by 262, health authorities said on Tuesday.
Former Top French Official Hopes Teacher's Beheading Will Mark 'Turning Point' VOA 20 Oct 2020 -- The report was explosive. Sixteen years ago, one of France's top education officials, Jean-Pierre Obin, sounded what he hoped would be a wake-up call about the "Islamization of French public schools."
COVID-Stricken European Countries Focus on Breaking Up Parties VOA 19 Oct 2020 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been urging Germany's young people to observe tightening pandemic restrictions. "Do without a few parties," she has told them.
France's new COVID-19 cases slow but deaths sharply up SPA 19 Oct 2020 -- French health authorities on Monday reported 13,243 new COVID-19 infections over the past 24 hours, sharply down from Saturday's record of 32,427 and Sunday's 29,837, according to Reuters.
France reports another 29,837 new COVID-19 cases People's Daily 19 Oct 2020 -- The cumulative COVID-19 cases in France totaled 897,034, with 33,477 fatalities.
France to Expel 231 Radicalised Foreigners After Beheading of Teacher in 'Islamist Terrorist Attack' Sputnik 19 Oct 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron held a defense council meeting in the wake of the brutal attack on a history teacher in a Paris suburb, vowing that "Islamists will not sleep peacefully in France", with probes to be conducted of the authors of 80 posts on social media that expressed support for the attacker.
France reports 32,427 new COVID-19 infections, hitting another one-day high People's Daily 18 Oct 2020 -- To stem the quick spread of the virus, the French government declared a state of health emergency starting from Saturday. Curfews from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. were implemented in nine big cities since Friday midnight.
Latest Terror Attack in France Sparks Anger, Fear VOA 18 Oct 2020 -- France saw countrywide rallies defending free speech and secularism Sunday, while the government discussed a stronger response to Islamist extremism following the brutal killing of a French schoolteacher last week.
Turkey's Erdogan Blames US, Russia & France for Helping Arm Armenia Sputnik 18 Oct 2020 -- Armed clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh region broke out on 27 September, with both Armenian and Azerbaijani sides accusing each other of firing the first shot.
France Reels From Latest Terror Attack VOA 17 Oct 2020 -- France is reeling from its latest terrorist attack — the gruesome decapitation of Paris-area teacher Samuel Paty days after he showed his class controversial cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. Media identify the suspect as Abdoulakh A., an 18-year-old immigrant born in Moscow and of Chechen origin. Authorities say they shot him minutes after the attack.
Macron condemns "Islamic terrorist attack" in Paris suburb Global Times 17 Oct 2020 -- Condemning the "Islamic terrorist attack" that took the life of a teacher in Paris northwest suburbs, French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday evening called on the French to stand together and pledged quick and firm action by the government to combat terrorism.
French Police Say Ethnic Chechen From Moscow Responsible For Teacher's Beheading RFE/RL 17 Oct 2020 -- A French official has identified an 18-year-old ethnic Chechen man from Moscow as the attacker who beheaded a schoolteacher in a Paris suburb and who was shot and killed by police shortly after.
France Begins COVID Curfew as Cases Climb Worldwide VOA 17 Oct 2020 -- Portions of France begin the implementation of new restrictions Saturday to try to curb the coronavirus. Paris and at least seven other cities, including Lyon, Grenoble, Aix-en-Provence, Montpellier, Lille, Rouen and Saint-Étienne will be under curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The curfew is scheduled to be in place for at least four weeks.
France Posts Record Number of New COVID-19 Cases SPA 17 Oct 2020 -- The French health ministry reported a record number of new confirmed cases of COVID-19 today, on Saturday at 32,427, after reporting 25,086 yesterday, according to Reuters.
Sarkozy charged with 'criminal conspiracy' over Libya bribes Press TV 17 Oct 2020 -- Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has been indicted for accepting cash funds for his 2007 election campaign from longtime Libyan ruler Muammar Qaddafi, who was toppled in 2011 after a Western military intervention, with Sarkozy being the driving force behind the move that led to his downfall.
Europe tightens curbs to fight COVID-19 resurgence; France to impose curfew People's Daily 15 Oct 2020 -- France, Portugal and Romania became the latest European countries -- after the Netherlands and Italy -- to impose tougher restrictions on Wednesday as a coronavirus resurgence continues to sweep across the continent.
COVID-19 rise in Europe a great concern, says WHO regional chief UN News 15 Oct 2020 -- COVID-19 is now the fifth leading cause of death in Europe, where nearly 700,000 cases were reported this week: the highest weekly incidence since the pandemic began in March, the regional head of the UN World Health Organization (WHO) told journalists on Thursday.
European Cities Locked Down Amid Coronavirus Surge VOA 15 Oct 2020 -- Dozens of European cities have been forced into lockdown amid a surge in coronavirus infections. Hospital intensive care units in the affected regions are filling up fast and doctors are warning that health systems could become overwhelmed as winter approaches.
WHO Europe Director Urges Tighter Controls as COVID Cases Surge VOA 15 Oct 2020 -- The World Health Organization's Europe director is encouraging European nations to tighten controls as the continent struggles to contain what appears to be a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.
Six-Week Nightly Virus Curfew for Paris and 8 other French Cities SPA 15 Oct 2020 -- An overnight curfew will come into effect in Paris and eight other big French cities on Saturday to combat rapidly rising coronavirus infections, President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday, according to dpa.
French Police Search Officials' Homes in COVID-19 Probe VOA 15 Oct 2020 -- French officials said police have conducted early-morning searches of the homes of the current and former top government officials after a special French court ordered an investigation of the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
France and Germany Tell Turkey to Stop Provocations SPA 15 Oct 2020 -- France and Germany accused Turkey today, on Thursday of continuing to provoke the European Union with its actions in the eastern Mediterranean, and urged it to clarify its positions in the coming weeks, Reuters reported.
Man Who Attacked Paris Police Officer Sentenced to 28 Years VOA 14 Oct 2020 -- A Paris court on Wednesday handed down a 28-year jail term to the Algerian man who attacked a police officer with a hammer in 2017 as officers guarded Notre Dame Cathedral.
France Says Further Restrictions Possible If Coronavirus Surge Continues VOA 12 Oct 2020 -- French Prime Minister Jean Castex warned Monday that France could impose further restrictions — including a lockdown — as the coronavirus is spreading rapidly, and the situation in hospitals is deteriorating there.
French coronavirus infections set new record at over 20,000 per day SPA 09 Oct 2020 -- The number of new coronavirus infections in France jumped over 20,000 in one day for the first time since the start of the epidemic, health ministry data showed on Friday, according to Reuters.
French cities of Lyon and Lille to Go on Maximum COVID-19 Alert Level - Minister SPA 08 Oct 2020 -- The French cities of Lyon, Lille, Grenoble and Saint-Etienne will go on maximum coronavirus alert level from next Saturday, Reuters cited French Health Minister Olivier Veran as saying today, on Thursday.
Russia denounces French-German 'blackmail' over Navalny Press TV 08 Oct 2020 -- Russia has denounced as "unacceptable" a recent statement by France and Germany accusing the Kremlin of poisoning opposition figure Alexei Navalny, saying it amounts to "blackmail."
Moscow Says Navalny Case Used as Pretext for New Round of Russia Sanctions, Vows Reciprocal Response Sputnik 08 Oct 2020 -- Previously, France and Germany promised they would send suggestions for targeted sanctions against Russia relating to the Navalny case to their European Union partners in the near future should Moscow not "explain" why and how the political activist had been poisoned.
French President Macron Announces New COVID-19 Restrictions SPA 07 Oct 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says there will be new restrictions to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, as the country reported a new all-time high, at almost 19,000, of new infections of the disease, Reuters reported.
Germany, France To Propose Sanctions Targeting Specific Russians Over Navalny Poisoning RFE/RL 07 Oct 2020 -- Germany and France say they will seek European Union sanctions targeting individuals held responsible for the poisoning of Aleksei Navalny, after a global chemical watchdog confirmed that a banned nerve agent was used against the Russian opposition leader.
French new COVID-19 cases remain above 10,000 a day SPA 06 Oct 2020 -- France reported 10,489 new confirmed coronavirus cases on Tuesday, well below a daily high near 17,000 reported on Saturday but remaining above the 10,000 level first seen mid-September, Reuters reported.
Russia, France, U.S. Reiterate Call For Cease-Fire In Nagorno-Karabakh As Fighting Escalates Into Cities RFE/RL 05 Oct 2020 -- Russia, France, and the United States have reiterated their call for an immediate cease-fire in and around the breakaway territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, saying the escalating conflict represented an "unacceptable threat" to the region's stability.
Joint Statement Calling for a Ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh US Dept. of State 05 Oct 2020 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Russian Federation, and the Republic of France on October 5, 2020.
International Leaders Urge Cease-fire in Nagorno-Karabakh VOA 05 Oct 2020 -- Leaders from France, Russia and the United States issued a joint statement Monday urging a cease-fire between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Paris Placed on Top Coronavirus Alert, Prime Minister's Office Says Sputnik 04 Oct 2020 -- The government will announce additional COVID-19 measures in Paris on Monday, the office said, adding that they will be in force for 15 days.
France Tops Daily Infection Record with Almost 17,000 New Cases SPA 04 Oct 2020 -- France has broken its record for new daily coronavirus infections, with 16,972 cases recorded in 24 hours, dpa cited authorities as saying today.
New Caledonia Votes Against Independence From France, Preliminary Results Show Sputnik 04 Oct 2020 -- About 54.1 percent of voters in the French South Pacific territory of New Caledonia spoke on Sunday against the independence from France, the Nouvelle-Calédonie la 1ère broadcaster reported, citing preliminary results after processing 155,000 out of 180,000 ballots.
New Caledonia Votes to Remain French VOA 04 Oct 2020 -- The South Pacific archipelago of New Caledonia has voted to remain part of France, election authorities announced.
French coronavirus cases reach record level with nearly 17,000 new infections SPA 03 Oct 2020 -- France on Saturday reported nearly 17,000 new confirmed coronavirus infections over the last 24 hours, setting a new daily record.
France, U.S., Russia Issue Joint Call For Peace As Fighting Rages In Nagorno-Karabakh RFE/RL 01 Oct 2020 -- Heavy shelling between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces persisted for a fifth day as the two sides continued to ignore repeated calls from international leaders to halt fighting over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Suspect In Paris Stabbing Attack To Be Investigated By Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor RFE/RL 30 Sep 2020 -- A Pakistani man accused of wounding two people with a meat cleaver in front of the former offices of Charlie Hebdo in Paris on September 25 is being formally investigated by the anti-terrorism prosecutor.
French national tests COVID-19 positive after quarantine release CNA 30 Sep 2020 -- Taiwan confirmed a new case of COVID-19 Wednesday when a French national who recently arrived in the country to work tested positive after he was released from mandatory quarantine, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said.
Putin, Macron Express Serious Concern Over Ongoing Full-Scale Hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh Sputnik 30 Sep 2020 -- The presidents discussed the tense situation in the region in a phone call initiated by the French side, calling on the parties to the conflict to immediately down arms.
Macron Calls Turkey's 'Warlike' Statements on Nagorno-Karabakh Escalation 'Dangerous' Sputnik 30 Sep 2020 -- Ankara previously stated that it would support Baku both in negotiations and in combat, also warning that any attack against Azerbaijani territories is an attack against Turkey itself.
Macron Expresses Concern Over Nagorno-Karabakh Crisis in Phone Talks With Azerbaijani President Sputnik 28 Sep 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed concerns over the growing tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh in phone talks with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev, the press service of the latter said on Monday.
Suspect in Paris Attack Angered by Charlie Hebdo's Republication of Cartoons, Reports Say Sputnik 26 Sep 2020 -- The main suspect in Friday's knife attack that took place near the former headquarters of the controversial French magazine Charlie Hebdo was enraged by the publication's reprint of controversial cartoons depicting Islam's prophet Muhammad, the French newspaper Le Parisien reports, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Stabbing Near Former Charlie Hebdo Office In Paris, Suspect Believed To Be Pakistani RFE/RL 25 Sep 2020 -- A stabbing that left two people injured in Paris near the former offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo -- the scene of a 2015 massacre that killed 12 people -- is being treated as a terror attack, the French interior minister said.
France reports total coronavirus cases over 500,000 for first time SPA 25 Sep 2020 -- France reported that its total number of coronavirus cases jumped over 500,000 for the first time, as it registered 15,797 new confirmed cases on Friday, just shy of a daily record of 16,096 set on Thursday.
France May Impose Second Quarantine Over Rising Number of COVID-19 Cases, Prime Minister Says Sputnik 24 Sep 2020 -- French Prime Minister Jean Castex warned citizens of the country that the government may impose a new quarantine over the increasing number of COVID-19 cases.
Macron Urges Turkey to Refrain From Unilateral Actions in Mediterranean Sputnik 23 Sep 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by phone with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan for more than an hour, discussing the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, Libya and Syria, the Elysee Palace said in a statement.
France's daily COVID-19 infections hit new record of 13,498 People's Daily 21 Sep 2020 -- Coronavirus infections have surged in France in recent weeks, particularly among young people, prompting the government to order the mandatory wearing of face masks outdoors and in workplaces.
Western Europe Scrambling to Avoid National Lockdowns VOA 21 Sep 2020 -- Western European states are scrambling to curb a second coronavirus wave of infections by re-imposing pandemic restrictions lifted just weeks or months ago. But their governments say they are determined to avoid further stressing their stricken economics by re-introducing national lockdowns.
NATO Secretary General discusses security issues with French Foreign Minister Le Drian NATO 21 Sep 2020 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian at NATO Headquarters on Monday (21 September 2020) to discuss issues relevant to transatlantic security.
France: Revocation of UN sanctions on Iran, effective IRNA 20 Sep 2020 -- Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations Nicolas de Rivière in a message reiterated E3 commitment to implementation of Iran nuclear deal, saying that revocation of UN sanctions on Iran is effective.
E3 Foreign Ministers' Statement: 20 September 2020 UK FCDO 20 Sep 2020 -- Statement by the United Kingdom, France and Germany on the JCPoA.
E3: US claim on snapback sanctions on Iran lacks legal effect Press TV 20 Sep 2020 -- The three European signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, also known as the E3, say a claim by the United States that it has restored Iran sanctions through the so-called snapback mechanism has no legal effect.
Britain, France, Germany say U.N. sanctions relief for Iran to continue beyond Sept. 20 ISNA 19 Sep 2020 -- Britain, France and Germany told the U.N. Security Council on Friday that U.N. sanctions relief for Iran - agreed under a 2015 nuclear deal - would continue beyond Sept. 20, when the United States asserts that all the measures should be reimposed.
In outright rejection of US unilateralism, E3 tells UNSC Iran sanctions relief to continue beyond Sep. 20 Press TV 19 Sep 2020 -- Britain, France and Germany have told the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that the sanctions relief provided by the world body for Iran – agreed under a 2015 nuclear deal – will continue beyond September 20 in outright rejection of assertions by the United States that the bans will snap back then.
U.S. Africa Command leaders discuss partnership with French military AFRICOM 17 Sep 2020 -- U.S. Africa Command leaders visited with French Chief of the Defense Staff, General Francois Lecointre, and other French senior officials to discuss continued U.S.-French cooperation in Africa.
Germany, France, U.K. Rebuke Beijing Over South China Sea Radio Free Asia 17 Sep 2020 -- The United Kingdom, France and Germany have signed a joint note denouncing China's claims in the South China Sea, in a sign of growing European interest in the maritime disputes there and China's militarization of occupied islets.
Greece to Buy Warplanes, Battleships to Boost Defenses against Turkey VOA 13 Sep 2020 -- With tensions between NATO allies Greece and Turkey rising, Greece has announced plans to purchase a grab bag of new warplanes, frigates, helicopters and weapons systems. Greece's defense shopping spree comes amid a new diplomatic scramble with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visiting Cyprus to ease an energy standoff in the eastern Mediterranean.
Greece to Buy French-Made Military Hardware Amid Ankara-Athens Tensions in East Mediterranean Sputnik 13 Sep 2020 -- The Turkish-Greek standoff over drilling in the Eastern Mediterranean has simmered for months, escalating in early August, when Athens demanded that Ankara immediately halt its "illegal" gas exploration activities in the area.
Greece announces major weapons purchase amid tensions with Turkey Press TV 13 Sep 2020 -- Greece has announced a significant arms purchase deal with France and a decision to overhaul its military as tensions continue to rise with Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean.
French Daily COVID-19 Cases Hit New Record at 10,561 SPA 12 Sep 2020 -- French health authorities today, on Saturday reported 10,561 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, a new daily record as the number topped 10,000 for the first time, according to Reuters.
French PM: No New Lockdown Despite COVID-19 Surge VOA 11 Sep 2020 -- French Prime Minister Jean Castex said Friday the government was not planning a new, nationwide lockdown in response to a dramatic spike in COVID-19 cases this week.
France's Macron Says Southern Europe Ready for Dialogue With Turkey Sputnik 11 Sep 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said the heads of the Southern Countries of the European Union bloc, also known as the Med7 were willing to conduct a responsible dialogue with Turkey in the wake of toughened Eastern Mediterranean tensions.
Mali's New Leadership Raises Questions About French Counterinsurgency Mission VOA 10 Sep 2020 -- Over the past seven years, France's Barkhane counterinsurgency operation in the Sahel has weathered terrorist attacks, flagging political support from its African allies, and growing popular protests against the ongoing presence of Paris, the region's former colonial power. Now, it faces the coup in Mali.
France's Macron Pivots to Mideast, Triggering Speculation VOA 10 Sep 2020 -- After spending months fighting coronavirus fires at home, French President Emmanuel Macron has switched his sights to the Middle East, flying last week to two key regional hot spots, Lebanon and Iraq, and hosting a summit Thursday in Corsica partly dominated by southern Europe's growing friction with Turkey.
Rafale aircraft formally inducted into Indian Air Force in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Ms Florence Parly, Ministere of Armed Forces of France; India PIB 10 Sep 2020 -- Rafale Fighter Air craft has been formally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) today at a formal function at Air Force Station, Ambala. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Ms Florence Parly, Minister of the Armed Forces of France graced the occasion.
Indian Air Force formally inducts 5 Rafale jets in fleet at Ambala airbase People's Daily 10 Sep 2020 -- Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday formally inducted the first batch of five Rafale fighter jets in its arsenal, officials said.
Indian Defence Minister Says Rafale Jets' Induction Will Help in Ongoing Border Stand-off With China Sputnik 10 Sep 2020 -- As the situation at the border with China remains heated due to a stand-off in Eastern Ladakh, India's air force welcomed five French-made Rafale fighter jets with a formal induction on Thursday. The situation has turned tense after a 7 September incident when shots were fired along the border for the first time in decades.
Five French Rafale Fighter Jets Formally Join Indian Air Force's Golden Arrows Squadron Sputnik 10 Sep 2020 -- Amid border tensions with China, India has urged France to ramp up the delivery of five Dassault Rafale jets in June, when it was expected to be delayed due to COVID-19. However, France fulfilled its commitment and provided three single-seater and two twin-seater fighter jets by 29 July.
France Reports 8,550 New Daily COVID-19 Infections SPA 06 Sep 2020 -- French health authorities reported 8,550 new confirmed coronavirus cases today, on Saturday, down from Friday's 8,975, Reuters reported.
Sanctions against Turkey on EU table over Greece tensions: France Press TV 06 Sep 2020 -- France says sanctions against Turkey are on the table during an upcoming meeting of the European Council as tensions with Greece deepen.
Two French soldiers killed, one injured on Mali operation Press TV 06 Sep 2020 -- Two French military personnel have been killed while on an operation in Mali after an improvised explosive device destroyed their armored vehicle, the French Presidency said.
Two French Military Personnel Killed in Operation in Mali Sputnik 05 Sep 2020 -- The two soldiers were killed after their armored vehicle was stricken by an improvised explosive device, the Elysee Palace said in a statement on Saturday evening. According to the statement, a third serviceman was injured in the blast.
France Again Registers over 7,000 New COVID-19 Infections SPA 03 Sep 2020 -- France registered more than 7,000 new coronavirus infections over 24 hours for the second time in two days, Reuters cited the health ministry as saying today, on Thursday, just shy of a 7,578 record set on March 31, while hospitalisations for the virus also rose again.
14 Terror Attack Suspects on Trial in Paris VOA 02 Sep 2020 -- Fourteen alleged associates of two jihadist terrorists went on trial Wednesday in Paris for allegedly helping them carry out deadly attacks in 2015, including one on the offices of French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo.
France - C-130 Aircraft Support DSCA 02 Sep 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of France of four (4) AE-2100D Turbo Prop engines and two (2) Multifunctional, Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminal Block Upgrade Two (MIDS-LVT BU2) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $350 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
France Reopens Schools with New Safety Measures VOA 01 Sep 2020 -- Millions of French children returned to school Tuesday under new safety regulations, despite a recent rise in virus infections, in a nationwide experiment aimed at bridging inequality and reviving the economy.
Macron to Lebanon's Leaders: Make Changes in 3 Months or Face Sanctions VOA 01 Sep 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has given Lebanese politicians three months to take concrete steps to rebuild the country, or face sanctions and lose out on crucial aid.
Turkish president lashes out at Greek, French leaders amid maritime row Press TV 31 Aug 2020 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has lashed at the leaders of France and Greece as tensions escalate between the NATO allies over oil and gas exploration in the disputed waters of the Mediterranean.
France probing senior officer with NATO for suspected espionage for Russia Press TV 30 Aug 2020 -- France has confirmed that it has placed a senior officer under investigation over an unidentified breach of security, amid reports that the officer had been engaged in espionage for Russia.
Senior French Military Officer Detained Over Reported Ties With Russian Secret Services RFE/RL 30 Aug 2020 -- A senior French military officer is under investigation for "security breaches," the country's defense minister has said.
French Army Officer Accused of Security Breach Amid Reports of Espionage in Favour of Russia Sputnik 30 Aug 2020 -- Europe 1 Radio reported that a French Army officer, whose identity was not disclosed, had transferred classified documents to Russia.
France Reports 5,453 New Coronavirus Cases SPA 29 Aug 2020 -- France reported 5,453 new confirmed coronavirus cases on Saturday, down from 7,379 seen today, on Friday, Reuters cited the health ministry as saying.
Turkey to stage new naval drill, accuses France of bullying Press TV 27 Aug 2020 -- Turkey has announced new naval exercises near its shores after accusing France of "bullying" as escalating tensions between Ankara and Athens in the eastern Mediterranean Sea over gas and oil exploration risked turning into a military standoff.
French president calls on citizens to learn to live with COVID-19 People's Daily 26 Aug 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday called on citizens to learn to live with the coronavirus after infections spiraled higher in recent weeks.
France reports 5,429 new coronavirus infections, new post-lockdown high SPA 26 Aug 2020 -- The French health ministry said it had registered 5,429 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours, a new post-lockdown high and a level of new infections not seen since the height of the epidemic in early April.
Concerns raised in France over school reopening as infections surge People's Daily 21 Aug 2020 -- Despite stricter anti-coronavirus measures in recent weeks, France is witnessing higher infections and faster virus transmission, fuelling fears of a second epidemic wave and raising concerns particularly over uncertain sanitary situation when millions of students will return to schools in less than two weeks.
Defence Secretary's speech at meeting of UK, German and French defence ministers UK MOD 21 Aug 2020 -- Ben Wallace gave a speech at his first in-person meeting with the German and French defence ministers since the coronavirus outbreak.
France, Germany and UK do not support U.S. in seeking to reimpose sanctions on Iran: joint statement People's Daily 21 Aug 2020 -- France, Germany and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement on Thursday saying that they cannot support the United States in seeking to reimpose sanctions on Iran.
E3 not to support US snapback invocation IRNA 21 Aug 2020 -- France, Germany and the United Kingdom (E3) in a statement announced that they will not support the US in snapback invocation against Iran which is incompatible with current efforts to support Iran nuclear deal.
Iran Defiant AS European JCPOA Members Refuse To Support US Move To Return UN Sanctions Radio Farda 21 Aug 2020 -- Reactions from Iran have ranged from defiant to gleeful as Britain, France and Germany, the three European partners to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, refused to support the United States move to reactivate all previous United Nations sanctions against Iran.
France Keeping Close Eye on Mali After Coup VOA 20 Aug 2020 -- France is calling for an immediate return to civilian rule in Mali following a military coup in the West African nation this week. The former colonial power has worked to stabilize the country since leading a 2013 military operation to oust extremists in the north.
France Carries on With Counter-Terrorism Operation Barkhane Despite Mali Military Coup Sputnik 20 Aug 2020 -- France's security forces are proceeding with the counter-terrorism operation Barkhane in Africa's Sahel region, despite the recent military takeover in the Western African country of Mali, French Defence Minister Florence Parly said on Thursday.
Saudi Royal Naval Forces Take over Command of the Mixed Duty Force (150) from its French Counterpart SPA 18 Aug 2020 -- The Saudi Royal Naval Forces took over the command of the Mixed Duty Force (150), for the second time, from its French counterpart.
Europe's 'Most Dear Enemies' Locked in Dispute VOA 17 Aug 2020 -- A French author once described the British as "our most dear enemies."
Australia, France Object To Afghan Release Of Some Taliban Detainees RFE/RL 17 Aug 2020 -- Afghan officials say the planned peace talks with the Taliban have hit a new impasse after some foreign governments called on Kabul not to free certain fighters in a prisoner-release deal.
European Three Explain UNSC Iran Vote Abstention, Russia And China Call US Move 'Futile' And 'Unilateral' Radio Farda 15 Aug 2020 -- Following the United Nations Security Council's rejection on Friday of the United States-led resolution to extend an arms embargo on Iran, the three European members of the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran - Britain, France and Germany - explained their reasons for abstaining from the vote, while Iran's allies, China and Russia, called the proposed U.S. resolution "futile" and a "unilateral" move.
France New COVID-19 Cases above 2,500 for 3rd Day in Row SPA 14 Aug 2020 -- France declared its capital Paris and the port city of Marseille high-risk zones for coronavirus today, on Friday as the government reported more than 2,500 new infections for the third day in a row, according to Reuters.
France Sends Forces to Mediterranean as Greece, Turkey Dispute Territory VOA 14 Aug 2020 -- France has ordered forces to the eastern Mediterranean to assist Greece, escalating a standoff between Greece and Turkey over oil drilling rights.
Turkey urges France to refrain from escalating Mediterranean tensions Press TV 14 Aug 2020 -- Turkey has urged France to refrain from escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean, following the French government's announcement of a plan to increase military presence in the area in support of Ankara's regional rival Greece.
Erdogan: Greece's attack on Turkish ship in Mediterranean to incur 'heavy price' Press TV 14 Aug 2020 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned Greece against any attack on the country's vessel engaged in energy exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean, amid Ankara's heightened tensions with Athens over oil and gas prospecting in disputed waters in the sea.
France, the Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Turks and Caicos Islands and Aruba to be removed from travel corridors list UK FCO 13 Aug 2020 -- People arriving in England from these destinations from 4am Saturday 15 August will need to self-isolate for 2 weeks.
France Reports New Post-Lockdown Peak in Daily COVID-19 Cases SPA 13 Aug 2020 -- The French health ministry reported 2,669 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours on Thursday, setting a new post-lockdown daily high for the second day in a row and taking the country's cumulative total of cases to 209,365, according to Reuters.
France to bolster military presence in Mediterranean amid tensions with Turkey Press TV 13 Aug 2020 -- France has planned to increase military presence in the eastern Mediterranean, amid rising tensions between Turkey and European Union (EU) member Greece over Turkish oil and gas exploration in disputed waters in the sea.
France's Macron Holds Talks With Russian, Iranian Leaders Over Lebanon, Belarus RFE/RL 13 Aug 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss postelection violence in Belarus and the situation in Lebanon following a devastating blast in Beirut.
Savior Or Meddler? Macron's Lebanon Response Gets Mixed Reviews VOA 11 Aug 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has earned kudos from many Lebanese and the international community for his proactive response to last week's explosion in Beirut – praise he doesn't always hear at home these days. But some critics are raising old accusations of French neocolonialist meddling.
France Investigates Killings of French, Nigerien Workers in Niger VOA 10 Aug 2020 -- French and Nigerien soldiers searched through a giraffe reserve and its surrounding area in Niger's Koure region on Monday for the killers of six French aid workers.
France reports biggest daily spike of coronavirus cases since end of April Global Times 08 Aug 2020 -- France on Friday reported 2,288 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, the biggest daily spike since the end of April.
Trump And Macron Discuss Extension Of Iran Arms Embargo Radio Farda 08 Aug 2020 -- The White House said in a statement on August 7 that President Donald Trump spoke with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, about the recent explosion in Beirut and the extension of Iran's arms embargo.
No colonial power can return to Lebanon, President Aoun says, rebuffing Macron Press TV 07 Aug 2020 -- Lebanese President Michel Aoun says no colonial power can return to Lebanon, following a trip by French President Emmanuel Macron to disaster-stricken Beirut that sparked outrage among the Lebanese.
Macron: Lebanon to Get No 'Blank Checks' for Blast Aid, Must Reform Government VOA 06 Aug 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that he would organize an international conference to raise funds for Lebanon, but he warned Lebanese leaders that they would not be getting "blank checks."
In flagrant act of interference, French president proposes new 'political pact' for Lebanon Press TV 06 Aug 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has asked for a "new political pact" among the Lebanese groups in flagrant interference in the Arab country's internal affairs just two days after a devastating blast gutted out the Beirut port.
France "highly likely" to face second wave of COVID-19 in coming months: scientific council People's Daily 05 Aug 2020 -- As COVID-19 cases flared up and the number of patients requiring life support surged after declining for four months, a second wave of the coronavirus epidemic is highly expected this autumn or winter in France, the country's scientific council predicted.
France's New COVID-19 Cases up 1,695, More Than Two-Month High SPA 05 Aug 2020 -- France reported 1,695 new COVID-19 infections over 24 hours, at 194,029, the highest daily increase since May 30, when they were up by 1,828, Reuters quoted health ministry data as showing today, on Wednesday.
Second COVID wave highly likely to hit France this year, scientists say SPA 04 Aug 2020 -- A second wave of the coronavirus epidemic is highly likely to hit France in the autumn or winter, the government's top scientific body warned on Tuesday as authorities seek to contain an increase in new cases over the past two weeks, according to Reuters.
German, French Arms Manufacturers Aiming to Reduce US Technologies in Military Production Sputnik 02 Aug 2020 -- Military-industrial enterprises of Germany and France are looking for ways to phase out dependence on US technologies in the production of military equipment, including for data protection, according to the German publication Welt am Sonntag.
Induction of Rafale In Indian Air Force India PIB 29 Jul 2020 -- The first five Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafale aircraft have arrived at Air Force Station, Ambala. The aircraft got airborne from Dassault Aviation Facility, Merignac, France on the morning of 27 Jul 20 and reached India this afternoon with a planned stopover en-route at Al Dhafra airbase in the UAE.
Surprise for the Enemy: What to Know About Rafale Jets as India's Air Power Receives Major Boost Sputnik 29 Jul 2020 -- India purchased 36 Rafale fighter jets from France in a 2016 government-to-government deal at a cost of $8.7 billion. The delivery of the jets, which began in October 2019, will be completed by 2022. India urged France to expedite the delivery amid heightened tensions with China along the border.
Rwanda Genocide Suspect in France Denies Allegations, Lawyer Says VOA 29 Jul 2020 -- A lawyer for an alleged Rwandan ex-spy chief living in France says his client denies allegations that he was involved in Rwanda's 1994 genocide. Aloys Ntiwiragabo is now under investigation by French prosecutors.
FERRY OF RAFALE India PIB 27 Jul 2020 -- The first five Indian Air Force (IAF) Rafales have taken off from Dassault Aviation Facility, Merignac, France, today morning. These five include three single seater and two twin seater aircraft.
Video: France Dispatches Rafale Fighters for India Amid Tense Situation Along Chinese Border Sputnik 27 Jul 2020 -- India purchased 36 Rafale fighter jets from France under a government-to-government deal in 2016 at a cost of $8.7 billion. The delivery of the jets was expedited by France at the behest of India after border tensions with China worsened in April of this year.
France Advises Citizens Not to Travel to Catalonia VOA 24 Jul 2020 -- France's prime minister Friday strongly recommended French citizens not travel to the Spanish region of Catalonia after a surge in COVID-19 cases there in recent weeks.
1st Batch of 'Fully Operational' Rafale Jets to Join Indian Air Force's Northern Air Base on 29 July Sputnik 21 Jul 2020 -- India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2018. Despite manufacturing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Paris had assured New Delhi that the first batch of five jets would be delivered in July. Dassault Aviation, manufacturer of the Rafale has committed to deliver 18 jets to the Indian Air Force by February 2021.
EU Leaders Agree on $857B for Coronavirus Relief VOA 21 Jul 2020 -- European Union leaders reached an agreement early Tuesday on a $2.1 trillion budget and coronavirus relief package.
EU leaders finally agree on post-coronavirus recovery plan Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- European Union (EU) leaders have reached an agreement on a massive post-coronavirus recovery plan after almost five days of tough talks.
EU leaders reach 2.1-tln-USD deal for post-pandemic recovery Global Times 21 Jul 2020 -- Leaders of the European Union reached a landmark deal on Tuesday after four days of intensive negotiations over a budget for the next seven years and a massive recovery fund amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analysis of Ukrainian plane black boxes underway in France IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Embassy in France announced that analyzing data of the crashed Ukrainian plane black boxes will start in laboratory of the Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety on Tuesday.
France, Germany, Italy threaten sanctions on violators of Libya's arms embargo Press TV 19 Jul 2020 -- France, Germany and Italy have threatened to impose sanctions against countries that are violating a United Nations (UN) arms embargo on conflict-torn Libya.
France, Germany and Italy threaten sanctions over arms for Libya SPA 19 Jul 2020 -- The leaders of France, Germany and Italy on Saturday threatened to use sanctions against countries that continued to violate a United Nations arms embargo on Libya, Reuters reported.
Indian Air Force to Discuss Rapid Deployment of Rafale Jets on LAC With China Sputnik 19 Jul 2020 -- France has committed to delivering the first batch of four Rafale jets by July end despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2016. Out of these, 18 jets are to be delivered to the Indian Air Force by February next year. The remaining ones are to be delivered by May 2022.
Germany, France, Italy Threaten Sanctions Over Libya Arms Ban Violations Sputnik 18 Jul 2020 -- The German, Italian and French leaders said in a joint statement on Saturday they were ready to consider sanctions as a response to violations of the UN arms embargo on Libya.
Iran Sends Downed Ukrainian Plane's Black Box To France Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- Six months after downing an airliner, Iran says that it has sent the aircraft's black box to France on Friday July 17.
Iran Sends Black Boxes Of Downed Ukrainian Airliner To France For Analysis RFE/RL 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran has sent the black boxes of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, which crashed shortly after takeoff in Tehran on January 8 after being struck by two missiles, killing 176 people.
Iran Sends Crashed Ukrainian Jet's Black Box to France, Diplomat Says Sputnik 18 Jul 2020 -- A black box from a Ukrainian plane downed near Tehran in January has been sent to France for reading, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Mohsen Baharvand said Saturday.
France: New Confirmed Coronavirus Cases Up 836 SPA 17 Jul 2020 -- France today reported 836 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 within 24 hours to stand at 174,674, amid rising concerns over renewed flare-ups of the epidemic, Reuters reported.
France to Make Wearing Masks Compulsory in Enclosed Public Spaces, Macron Says VOA 14 Jul 2020 -- France will soon require people to wear masks in enclosed public places to prevent a rebound in COVID-19 cases, French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday.
French Coronavirus Death Toll Rises Above 30,000 SPA 10 Jul 2020 -- France today became the 6th country to report a death toll of more than 30,000 from coronavirus infection, Reuters reported.
Kosovo, Serbia To Restart Talks After Video Summit With Merkel, Macron RFE/RL 10 Jul 2020 -- Kosovo and Serbia have agreed to resume EU-backed normalization talks at a video summit hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
France's Macron asks Israel's Netanyahu to abandon annexation plan Press TV 10 Jul 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has asked Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from pushing forward with his plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank and the Jordan Valley.
France's New Government Takes Office at Tough Time VOA 07 Jul 2020 -- France's newly appointed government gets down to work this week facing big challenges, including coronavirus and the economic crisis - not to mention general elections in less than two years.
The Reinvention of Emmanuel Macron VOA 07 Jul 2020 -- Buffeted by social unrest, economic woes and the coronavirus pandemic, French President Emmanuel Macron is in the process of rebooting his government two years out from a reelection bid, hoping to go one better than immediate predecessors who served just one term.
Turkish Foreign Minister Calls for EU Backing After Naval Standoff With France Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu urged the European Union on Monday to side with Ankara after accusing France of wrongly depicting a standoff between their ships in the Mediterranean.
France - E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Aircraft, Spares and Support Equipment DSCA 06 Jul 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of France of three (3) E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $2 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Pentagon Approves Possible $2 Billion Sale of Hawkeye Surveillance Aircraft to France Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- The US State Department approved a potential $2 billion sale of three E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Aircraft and related equipment to France, the Defence Security Cooperation Agency said in a press release on Monday.
French Government Resuffle: Defence, Finance, Foreign Ministers Retain Posts, Key Macron Ally Out Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- On Friday, President Emmanuel Macron appointed Jean Castex, his former deputy chief of staff, to the post of prime minister following the resignation of Edouard Philippe, and instructed Castex to form a new government.
French president appoints Jean Castex as new prime minister People's Daily 04 Jul 2020 -- Jean Castex, a 55-year-old top civil servant not known to the French general public, was appointed new prime minister by President Emmanuel Macron to replace Edouard Philippe, the French presidential palace announced on Friday.
French Coronavirus Death Toll Rises by 14 to 29,875 SPA 02 Jul 2020 -- The number of deaths in France from the new coronavirus has risen by 14 from the previous day to 29,875, Reuters quoted the country's health department as saying today. The number of people in hospital fell by 188 to 8,148 and the number of people in intensive care units fell by nine to 573, with both numbers continuing weeks-long downtrends.
France should apologize over 'false claims' about naval incident in Mediterranean: Turkish FM Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- Turkey says France should apologize for making "false claims" about a naval incident between the warships of the two NATO allies in the Mediterranean last month that prompted Paris to ask for a NATO investigation.
Turkey Wants France to Apologise Over Mediterranean Warships Incident That Led to NATO Probe Sputnik 02 Jul 2020 -- Turkish frigates confronted French naval forces in the Mediterranean Sea as they tried to inspect a ship, purportedly carrying weapons to Libya in violation of the UN ban. The incident took place amid Ankara's attempts to help the UN recognised government of national accord in its fight against the army of General Haftar.
French Coronavirus Deaths Rise By 18 to 29,861 SPA 01 Jul 2020 -- The number of deaths in France from the new coronavirus has risen by 18 from the previous day to stand at 29,861, Reuters cited the country's health department as saying on Wednesday.
Turkey accuses France of 'bias' toward UAE, Egypt in Libya Press TV 01 Jul 2020 -- Turkey's Ambassador to Paris has accused France of being "biased" toward the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, saying the French government is ignoring violations of a Libyan arms embargo imposed by the United Nations Security Council to the benefit of renegade General Khalifa Haftar.
Pandemic Stalls Deliveries of Submarines, Helicopters to Singapore - Defense Ministry Sputnik 30 Jun 2020 -- Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore's military will have delivery of German submarines and French and American helicopters delayed by several months. Its F-35 order, however, remains on schedule.
France supports a 'pirate' in Libya: Turkey Press TV 30 Jun 2020 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says France is supporting a "pirate" in Libya, a reference to Libyan rebel commander Khalifa Haftar, who has been fighting the internationally-recognized government in the North African country.
Green Party Surges in France's Local Elections VOA 29 Jun 2020 -- Some are calling it an historic moment for France's Greens party, others for the environmental movement in general. The Greens went from controlling just one major French city - Grenoble - to capturing a string of other large and mid-sized towns, including Bordeaux, Lyon, Strasbourg and Besanon.
Macron To Travel To Russia 'Soon' To Continue Dialogue With Putin RFE/RL 27 Jun 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said on June 27 that he plans to visit Russia "soon" to continue talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on key issues like security and climate change.
France's Macron to Travel to Russia Soon VOA 27 Jun 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Saturday that he would soon hold more "trust-building" talks in Russia with counterpart Vladimir Putin.
Work On Black Boxes Of Ukrainian Jet Downed By Iran To Start Next Month RFE/RL 26 Jun 2020 -- The French BEA air-accident investigation agency says "technical work" on the black boxes of a downed Ukrainian airliner is expected to kick off in France next month.
France 'Won't Tolerate' Turkey's Behavior in Libya, Macron Says VOA 23 Jun 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says he "won't tolerate" the role that Turkey is playing in Libya, calling it an obstacle to peace.
Iran to send Ukrainian plane's flight recorder to France in coming days ISNA 23 Jun 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif says Iran will send the black box of a Ukrainian passenger plane that crashed near Tehran in January to France for analysis in coming days.
Ukraine President Threatens Lawsuit Against Iran Over Downed Airliner Radio Farda 23 Jun 2020 -- The President of the Ukraine has threatened that if Iran does not fulfill its obligations regarding the Ukrainian airliner downed in January over Tehran, Kyiv will file a lawsuit against the Islamic Republic in international courts.
Germany, France criticize Israel over West Bank annexation plans Press TV 21 Jun 2020 -- Germany and France have called on Israel to halt its plans to annex large swathes of the occupied West Bank which Palestinians consider as part of their future independent state.
French Coronavirus Deaths Rise by 19 to 29,633 SPA 20 Jun 2020 -- The number of deaths in France from COVID-19 has risen by 19, in the last 24 hours, to stand at 29,633, Reuters quoted the French health ministry as saying on Saturday.
E3 foreign ministers' statement on the JCPoA: 19 June UK FCO 19 Jun 2020 -- France, Germany and the UK reiterate commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to bring Iran back to full compliance with the JCPoA.
Germany, France Trying to Prevent Israel's Annexation of Palestinian Territories, Maas Says Sputnik 19 Jun 2020 -- Germany and France are worried about Israel's plan to take control of the Palestinian territories, they want to prevent this violation of international law, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Friday.
Turkey Brushes Off France's 'Groundless Allegations' of Aggression in Mediterranean Sputnik 18 Jun 2020 -- The French Foreign Ministry on 17 June accused Turkey's navy of hostile actions towards its NATO allies to prevent them from imposing a United Nations arms embargo on Libya.
G7 Foreign Ministers' Statement on Hong Kong US Dept. of State 17 Jun 2020 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the High Representative of the European Union.
UK reports lowest daily deaths, France "turns page of first act of crisis" People's Daily 15 Jun 2020 -- Britain reports lowest daily COVID-19 deaths since lockdown starts;
France "turns page of first act of (COVID-19) crisis", says Macron Global Times 15 Jun 2020 -- Starting from Monday it would be possible for France to "turn the page on the first act of the crisis" that had forced France into nearly two months of anti-coronavirus lockdown followed by a gradual and cautious deconfinement, President Emmanuel Macron declared on Sunday.
Drugmaker Strikes Coronavirus Vaccine Deal With European Countries VOA 13 Jun 2020 -- A European pharmaceutical giant reached agreement Saturday with an alliance of European countries to supply those nations with up to 400 million doses of an experimental COVID-19 vaccine.
AstraZeneca agrees to supply Europe with 400 mln doses of COVID-19 vaccine SPA 13 Jun 2020 -- AstraZeneca Plc has signed a contract with European governments to supply the region with its potential vaccine against the coronavirus, the British drug maker's latest deal to pledge its drug to help combat the pandemic, according to Reuters.
Europe's Covid Vaccine Race: France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands Sign AstraZeneca Contract Sputnik 13 Jun 2020 -- Earlier this month France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands joined forces to form the "Inclusive Vaccine Alliance", in order to have a stronger negotiating position in the race for a coronavirus vaccine. The contract agreement with AstraZeneca is the alliance's first result in securing a potential coronavirus vaccine for European countries.
French nuclear submarine on fire as another sub test-fires ballistic M51 SLBM missile Press TV 13 Jun 2020 -- Fire has broken out and still raging onboard a French nuclear submarine docked at the Mediterranean port of Toulon, home to France's largest naval base, while another French submarine test-fired a strategic ballistic missile amid the new US-initiated nuclear arms race.
U.S., U.K., France Strengthen Partnership during Virtual Trilateral Maritime Talks NNS 12 Jun 2020 -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday, First Sea Lord, United Kingdom Royal Navy Adm. Tony Radakin, and Chief of Naval Staff, Adm. Christophe Prazuck, French Navy, conducted a trilateral maritime discussion, June 12.
France Urges US to Reconsider Its ICC Sanctions, Calls Step Attack on States Party to Rome Statute Sputnik 12 Jun 2020 -- Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump issued an executive order authorising economic sanctions and travel restrictions against those International Criminal Court (ICC) workers involved in probing American troops and intelligence officials for possible war crimes in Afghanistan.
France Successfully Test-Fires Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile Across Atlantic Sputnik 12 Jun 2020 -- The French Ministry of Defense announced on Friday it had fired a ballistic missile across the Atlantic Ocean. The M51 submarine-launched missile (SLBM) was monitored by French and US forces, and the test was hailed as a "success" and "essential to French nuclear deterrence" and sovereignty.
French Nuclear Submarine Catches Fire in Mediterranean Sputnik 12 Jun 2020 -- A Rubis-class French nuclear submarine named Perle has caught fire while anchored on a naval base in the port-city of Toulon on the country's Mediterranean coast, the Maritime Prefecture of the Channel and the Mediterranean said on Friday, adding that the incident poses no threat of radioactive pollution.
France Extends Maritime Space by Nearly 58,000 Square Miles Sputnik 11 Jun 2020 -- The Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, a body of the United Nations, has authorised France to further extend its underwater field by over 150,000 square kilometres (58,000 square miles) off the islands of Reunion, and French Southern and Antarctic Lands, according to a statement published on Thursday.
France Will Roll Back Special Government Powers on July 10 VOA 10 Jun 2020 -- France is prepared to lift the special government powers granted to cope with the coronavirus pandemic on July 10 but will continue to restrict gatherings and freedom of movement for the next four months, the prime minister's office said.
French forces 'kill al-Qaeda commander in North Africa' Press TV 07 Jun 2020 -- French military forces based in North Africa have reportedly killed a senior militant linked to the al-Qaeda terrorist group.
US, France Confirm Death of Key al-Qaida Emir in Africa VOA 06 Jun 2020 -- The United States says there is no doubt that the long-time leader of a key al-Qaida terror group affiliate in North Africa is dead.
Guaido seeking refuge at French embassy in Caracas: Venezuela FM Press TV 05 Jun 2020 -- Venezuela's US-backed opposition figure Juan Guaido is said to have sought refuge at the French embassy in the Latin American country's capital, Caracas.
France reports 107 new single-day deaths from COVID-19 Global Times 03 Jun 2020 -- With 107 COVID-19 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, France's total death toll from the coronavirus-caused disease rose to 28,940 on Tuesday, official figures showed.
France Releases Contact-Tracing StopCovid App VOA 02 Jun 2020 -- French citizens are among the first to be able to download the government-sponsored StopCovid app as the government begins coronavirus contact tracing through cell phones.
France Affirms its Commitment to Ensure Timely Delivery of Rafale Jets, Indian Defence Minister Says Sputnik 02 Jun 2020 -- India is set to receive a portion of its Rafale jet order in July 2020 under an inter-governmental agreement signed between New Delhi and Paris. The Rafale jets will come with various India-specific modifications, boosting India's combat capabilities.
Germany, Spain, France Approve Performance Benchmarks for Future Combat Air System Sputnik 27 May 2020 -- An agreement has been reached by the air forces of Germany, Spain and France regarding performance standards for a collection of 10 possible system architectures under the Next-Generation Weapon System (NGWS), according to a recent military statement from Berlin.
France bans hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients Global Times 27 May 2020 -- France on Wednesday banned the use of malaria drug hydroxychloroquine to treat patients suffering severe forms of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
France's 1st known COVID-19 case found last December: media reports Global Times 24 May 2020 -- France's first known COVID-19 case was detected last December, according to media reports.
France revises down COVID-19 death toll due to counting error People's Daily 20 May 2020 -- France's Health Ministry on Tuesday revised down the country's death toll from the novel coronavirus by 217 from 28,239 on Monday, citing "an error of double counting in several nursing homes."
More Than Just Health, COVID-19 Presents a Political Crisis for French Leader VOA 20 May 2020 -- The sky-high ratings and talk of a start-up nation are long gone. So is the reformist agenda, pushed through over strikes and demonstrations.
Some French Schools Close Again Due to COVID-19 VOA 18 May 2020 -- Some schools in France have closed just a week after reopening, after students or staff tested positive for COVID-19, the education minister said Monday.
Coronavirus death toll tops 28,000 in France Global Times 18 May 2020 -- With 483 additional coronavirus-related deaths registered on Sunday, France saw its overall toll of the epidemic rise to 28,108, the Health Ministry said.
France Calls for EU Unity on Border Reopening Amid Coronavirus Fears Sputnik 16 May 2020 -- The French interior minister warned EU nations on Saturday against setting their own schedules for reopening borders as Europe prepares for the summer tourist season.
Coronavirus-linked rare disease kills 9-year-old in France, UK deaths at nearly 34,000 People's Daily 16 May 2020 -- Italy registered 242 new coronavirus fatalities on Friday, bringing the country's death toll to 31,610, out of total infection cases of 223,885, according to the latest data provided by the country's Civil Protection Department.
France Arrests Rwandan Businessman Wanted in Connection With 1994 Genocide VOA 16 May 2020 -- French police have arrested a man accused of funding militias that massacred hundreds of thousands of people in Rwanda 1994 genocide.
Will a Green Economy Emerge in Europe Post-Coronavirus? VOA 15 May 2020 -- France emerged from lockdown this week pretty much the way it entered – with blue skies and chilly winds in the capital, where Parisians savored newly found freedoms.
France's Pasteur Institute on Front Lines of Africa's COVID Response VOA 14 May 2020 -- There are few days when the Paris-based Pasteur Institute and its far-flung network are not in the news.
France rejects US should get coronavirus vaccine first Press TV 14 May 2020 -- France says equal access to any COVID-19 vaccine developed by the Paris-based multinational pharmaceutical company, Sanofi, is non-negotiable, stressing that no country, particularly the United States, should have priority because of financial motivation.
First COVID-19 cases in France date back to November People's Daily 14 May 2020 -- Doctors at the Albert Schweitzer Hospital of Colmar in eastern France said they've found evidence that the earliest COVID-19 cases in the country can be traced back to November 16, according to a press release from the hospital on Thursday.
Uzbekistan: France Transferred $10 Million Of Karimova's Assets RFE/RL 14 May 2020 -- Uzbekistan says it has received from France assets worth $10 million illegally acquired by Gulnara Karimova, the imprisoned elder daughter of late President Islam Karimov.
China warns France not to harm bilateral ties by selling weapons to Taiwan Press TV 13 May 2020 -- China has warned France not to sell weapons to the self-ruled island of Taiwan, saying such a move would harm bilateral ties.
French govt. management of PPE has left elderly exposed to coronavirus: Report Press TV 12 May 2020 -- The French government's intervention to exclusively manage the distribution of personal protection equipment (PPE) amid the coronavirus epidemic has over time had a side effect of leaving a portion of France's elderly population more at risk.
Spotlight: France cautiously starts COVID-19 lockdown exit Global Times 12 May 2020 -- Nearly two months after ordering its 67 million population to stay home to stem the coronavirus outbreak, France on Monday cautiously started a gradual process to return to normalcy, easing some restrictions while maintaining others to avoid a new epidemic wave.
'Critical Shortcomings': French Foreign Spy Agency Angry at Poor Job Applicants, Report Claims Sputnik 09 May 2020 -- DGSE, France's equivalent to the US Central Intelligence Agency or UK's MI6, is tasked with procuring secret political, military and economic information from foreign targets, and over the past decade has almost doubled in size.
France to start "very gradual" easing of lockdown from May 11, says PM People's Daily 08 May 2020 -- France would start to ease restrictions on movement from next Monday through "a very gradual process" which would stretch over several weeks at least to avoid a resurgence of COVID-19, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe confirmed on Thursday.
In Corsica, COVID-19 Fuels Nationalist Demands for Greater Autonomy VOA 07 May 2020 -- The daily flights and ferries carrying tourists and French retirees seem a distant memory, even as a chunk of the diaspora has returned to ancestral villages.
WHO: Paris Hospital's Discovery of COVID-19 Case From December 'Not Surprising' Sputnik 05 May 2020 -- According to a spokesman for the World Health Organization (WHO), France's recent announcement of a Paris hospital's treatment of a patient with the COVID-19 novel coronavirus on December 27 is understandable, considering when symptoms of the disease appeared in China.
France's Macron Addresses Fears About Schools Reopening Next Week VOA 05 May 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron sought to ease the fears of parents, school districts and some 300 French cities Tuesday about his decision to reopen the nation's schools next week.
Apolitical scientific tracing of virus urged after earlier cases found in France Global Times 05 May 2020 -- Chinese experts urged international communities and regions to carry out apolitical scientific research to trace the origin of the virus, rather than passing the buck to China for political purposes as some countries including France and the US have reportedly discovered COVID-19 cases that occurred earlier than the first cases they previously reported and showed no direct relation with China.
France, G5 Sahel Nations Urge Chad to Continue Counterterrorism Support VOA 04 May 2020 -- France and other countries in Africa's Sahel region have called on Chad to send additional troops "as soon as possible" to an area wracked by instability and violent extremism.
Europe Coronavirus Updates: UK COVID-19 deaths top 28,000, France extends state of health emergency Global Times 03 May 2020 -- The following are the latest developments of the COVID-19 pandemic in European countries.
France Prolongs Public Health Emergency Until 24 July Sputnik 02 May 2020 -- A public health emergency was established in France on 24 March, as the country was coping with the coronavirus pandemic that, according to the WHO, has infected 128,121 people as of 2 May.
Europe Coronavirus Updates: UK hits testing goal, France sees lowest daily increase in COVID-19 deaths People's Daily 02 May 2020 -- UK hits testing goal as COVID-19 deaths rise to 27,510;
For Foreigners on France's Front Line, COVID-19 Exposes Health Care Shortcomings VOA 29 Apr 2020 -- Like many of their colleagues these days, Dr. Nefissa Lakhdara and her husband, Dr. Redouane Bouhalila, return home from long hours on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. They wash up, stuff potentially virus-tainted clothes into the washing machine, and attend to children left homebound by the pandemic, clocking up exhausting work weeks.
Spain, France, UK take up Baltic air-policing mission NATO 29 Apr 2020 -- Spain, France and the United Kingdom will take up NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission starting in May, guarding the skies over the Baltic region for the next four months.
France Says Libyan Conflict Can Only Be Resolved Through UN-Backed Dialogue Between Parties Sputnik 28 Apr 2020 -- The statement follows military commander Khalifa Haftar's announcement that he had assumed control of the eastern-based civilian authorities and had a popular mandate to govern Libya.
French papers follow US in attacking China Global Times 26 Apr 2020 -- Groundless accusations against China over the COVID-19 pandemic by some French media and right-wing politicians, including major news outlet Le Figaro, opposed the cooperative tendency berween France and China as well as the friendship between the two peoples, Chinese analysts said on Sunday.
France's coronavirus death toll rises by 389 to 22,245 SPA 24 Apr 2020 -- The death toll in France from the coronavirus rose by 389 to 22,245 on Friday, the country's top health official Jerome Salomon said.
US Allies Condemn Iran's Satellite Launch As Russia Defends The Move Radio Farda 24 Apr 2020 -- Following strong condemnation by the Unites States two of its major European allies, France and Germany, have also criticized Iran's launch of a military satellite into space.
France, Europe Mull Controversial Coronavirus Tracing Apps VOA 22 Apr 2020 -- France's parliament votes next week on plans to use a controversial tracing app to help fight the coronavirus, as the country eyes easing its lockdown next month.
France Registers more than 20,000 Coronavirus Deaths SPA 20 Apr 2020 -- France on Monday officially registered more than 20,000 deaths from coronavirus infections, and the pace of increase of fatalities sped up again after several days of slowing, as Reuters reported.
Spain's death toll tops 20,000, France's surpasses 19,000 People's Daily 19 Apr 2020 -- A further 482 people had died of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours in Italy, raising the country's death toll to 23,227, official data showed on Saturday.
France rejects US anti-China claim of COVID-19 link to Wuhan lab Press TV 18 Apr 2020 -- The French government has rejected as unfounded the recent US allegations linking a Chinese research laboratory in the city of Wuhan to the new coronavirus.
UK, France scapegoat China for epidemic losses, but cooperation still mainstream: expert Global Times 17 Apr 2020 -- Some politicians in Europe have tried to make China a scapegoat to ease public disappointment over the continuously worsening pandemics in their own countries and contain China's global influence, experts told the Global Times on Friday, following reports that British foreign minister and French president had criticized China over the epidemic.
Almost half of crew on French aircraft carrier fleet have COVID-19 Press TV 17 Apr 2020 -- France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly says more than 1,000 of the sailors on the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier fleet have tested positive for the new coronavirus disease, COVID-19.
French Military Launches Inquiry After 1,081 Aircraft Carrier Members Test Positive for COVID-19 Sputnik 17 Apr 2020 -- With France's coronavirus death toll reaching 18,681, according to the latest figures compiled by John Hopkins University, the country has become one of the worst-hit globally by the ongoing pandemic, and it now seems that France's navy could be emerging as an infection hotspot.
Diplomatic spat continues between France and China over COVID-19 response Press TV 16 Apr 2020 -- A diplomatic spat is widening between France and China over an article on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Paris criticizing the West's handling of the COVID-19 epidemic.
In France and Elsewhere, Making Face Masks Becomes a Mission VOA 16 Apr 2020 -- Among the rolling vineyards of France's southwestern Gironde region, osteopath Chloe Chancelier has found a new calling as she organizes a small volunteer army to sew cotton masks for health workers.
French Navy Opens Probe Into Flagship Coronavirus Contamination Sputnik 16 Apr 2020 -- The French navy has opened a probe into an outbreak of the new coronavirus abroad its flagship aircraft carrier the Charles de Gaulle, the Defence Ministry has said.
Around 20 Sailors Are in Hospital After Coronavirus Outbreak on Charles de Gaulle Ship - French Navy Sputnik 16 Apr 2020 -- The initial tests, conducted earlier this month confirmed at least 50 cases of COVID-19 among the crew of the French flagship.
France Wants More COVID-19 Money for Developing Countries VOA 15 Apr 2020 -- France said Tuesday that the G20 group of industrialized nations have agreed to a partial moratorium on debt payments this year from the world's developing countries, many of them in Africa. French President Emmanuel Macron wants to go further.
India, France Extend Lockdowns as World Coronavirus Cases Top 2 Million VOA 14 Apr 2020 -- India, France and Nigeria are among several countries whose leaders are extending lockdowns aimed at stopping the spread of the novel coronavirus, as the number of confirmed cases worldwide approaches 2 million.
Europe Coronavirus Updates: Death toll exceeds 20,000 in Italy as France further extends lockdown to May 11 People's Daily 14 Apr 2020 -- Italy sees ICU patients decrease for the 10th consecutive day while death toll tops 20,000;
France's coronavirus deaths reach 14,393, ICU cases continue to decrease People's Daily 13 Apr 2020 -- As of Sunday, the number of people who have died from the coronavirus in France totalled 14,393, representing a one-day increase of 561, down from Saturday's 643, while serious cases decreased for the fourth straight day.
Europe Coronavirus Updates: UK PM discharged from hospital, ICU cases in France continue to fall People's Daily 13 Apr 2020 -- Italy registers 156,363 infections, death toll at 19,899;
France's coronavirus death toll rises to 13,832 SPA 12 Apr 2020 -- France's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak rose today to 13,832, but the number of patients in intensive care fell for the third day in a row, raising hopes that a nationwide lockdown is curbing the spread of the disease.
China, France support WHO in playing due role in COVID-19 fight: FMs Global Times 10 Apr 2020-- China and France support the World Health Organization (WHO) in playing its due role in combating COVID-19, said Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian over phone on Thursday.
50 test positive for COVID-19 aboard French aircraft carrier Press TV 10 Apr 2020 -- France's armed forces ministry has announced that 50 coronavirus cases have been recorded among the crew of the country's sole aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle.
Fifty COVID-19 Cases Confirmed on Board France's Charles de Gaulle Aircraft Carrier Sputnik 10 Apr 2020 -- This comes as France's death toll from the new coronavirus infection has exceeded 12,000, according to the country's health ministry.
French Navy Flagship Will Return to Port Due to Coronavirus Symptoms on Board Sputnik 08 Apr 2020 -- The country is trying to curb the pandemic via severe quarantine measures. At least 73,488 people have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and 8,896 have succumbed to the disease, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
COVID-19 death toll tops 8,000 in France People's Daily 06 Apr 2020 -- France has registered a total of 8,078 deaths caused by the COVID-19 since the outbreak of the epidemic, the Health Ministry announced on Sunday.
Number of COVID-19 Cases in France Surpasses 70,000, Death Toll Tops 8,000 – Authorities Sputnik 05 Apr 2020 -- The total number of COVID-19 cases in France has surpassed 70,000, the country's health authorities confirmed in a statement on Sunday, adding that the death toll has also risen above 8,000.
US method of sourcing protective gear baffling world amid coronavirus crisis Press TV 04 Apr 2020 -- The Trump administration's method of sourcing protective equipment to tackle the coronovirus pandemic has baffled the world, with France and Germany leveling the harshest criticism at Washington.
COVID-19: US 'Hijacked' Batch of Face Masks Ordered by France From China - Reports Sputnik 02 Apr 2020 -- The first batch of a billion face masks ordered by the French government to fight the Covid-19 pandemic landed near Paris on 29 March, as Olivier Véran, the French health minister said the country required 40 million face masks per week to face the coronavirus outbreak, while lamenting the current weekly production capacity of just 8 million.
France Reports 502 New Deaths of Coronavirus SPA 01 Apr 2020 -- France reported today 502 new deaths of the Coronavirus in the hospitals during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of deaths to 4,032.
Readout of Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper's Phone Call With France Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 31 Mar 2020
Germany confirms first INSTEX transaction IRNA 31 Mar 2020 -- The Federal Foreign Office of Germany in a tweet confirmed the first transaction with Iran through the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX) on Tuesday.
European States Send Medical Goods to Iran in First INSTEX Transaction Sputnik 31 Mar 2020 -- The INSTEX trading mechanism was previously created by European countries to bypass unilateral restrictions, imposed against the Islamic Republic by Washington, as the US threatened to hit those trading with Tehran via secondary sanctions. Iran, however, has repeatedly criticised INSTEX for not functioning properly.
Iran Gets Medical Aid Through US Sanctions Workaround VOA 31 Mar 2020 -- Germany, Britain and France have facilitated exports of medical goods to Iran in the first use of a mechanism designed to get around U.S. sanctions, Germany said Tuesday.
Europe sends medical supplies to Iran in first INSTEX transaction: Germany Press TV 31 Mar 2020 -- Germany says the three European signatories to the 2015 Iran deal have registered the first transaction under a trade system set up last year to protect companies doing business with Iran from US sanctions, delivering medical supplies to the Islamic Republic amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Coronavirus crisis puts EU credibility on line: French minister Press TV 29 Mar 2020 -- A French minister says how the European Union responds to the coronavirus outbreak will determine its future credibility as the pathogen continues to take a heavy toll across the bloc.
France extends coronavirus lockdown by two weeks to April 15 SPA 27 Mar 2020 -- French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said in a speech the government had decided to extend the country's coronavirus lockdown by two weeks until April 15.
Paris hospitals near coronavirus breaking point SPA 27 Mar 2020 -- A spike in coronavirus cases will put France under huge pressure in coming days, its prime minister said on Friday, after reporting its biggest daily death toll and officials fearing hospitals in and around Paris could be saturated in 48 hours.
France's Macron launches army operation to win war against COVID-19 People's Daily 26 Mar 2020 -- Declaring a war against "an invisible enemy," President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday announced an army operation "Resilience" to back the fight against the coronavirus pandemic and support the population.
France confirms 16,018 coronavirus cases, 35 pct aged under 65 People's Daily 23 Mar 2020 -- France has confirmed 16,018 coronavirus infection cases, 35 percent of whom are aged under 65, Director General of Health Jerome Salomon announced on Sunday.
France's Unilateral Release of Iranian National Jalal Rohollahnejad US Dept. of State 22 Mar 2020 -- "The United States deeply regrets France's unilateral decision to release Iranian national Jalal Rohollahnejad from its custody. Rohollahnejad was the subject of a U.S. extradition request."
Former Detainees In Prisoner Swap Return To France, Iran RFE/RL 22 Mar 2020 -- Two former detainees released in a prisoner swap between France and Iran have returned to their home countries after each having spent months in confinement.
France reports 12,612 coronavirus infection cases People's Daily 21 Mar 2020 -- France has confirmed 12,612 coronavirus infection cases, including 1,297 in intensive care, Director-General of Health Jerome Salomon said on Friday.
France in Talks to Buy Masks From Several Countries, Including China, to Cope With COVID-19 Crisis Sputnik 20 Mar 2020 -- At the moment, the number of those infected in France is nearing 11,000, while over 370 people have succumbed to the coronavirus in the country.
'We are at war': Macron announces 15-day lockdown over COVID-19 People's Daily 17 Mar 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered strict restrictions on people's movements to slow the spread of the coronavirus, and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals.
France imposes stricter restriction on people's movement People's Daily 17 Mar 2020 -- At war against coronavirus, French citizens should stay home with their movement being greatly reduced starting from Tuesday noon for at least 15 days, President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday evening.
Macron Locks Down France, EU Borders to Shut as Coronavirus Spreads Through Europe VOA 17 Mar 2020 -- The European Union's external borders will be closed to non-essential travel for 30 days as of Tuesday to fight the spread of the coronavirus, while France is following Italy and Spain in imposing a nationwide lockdown for at least 15 days.
Macron suspends pension reforms, 'we are at war' with coronavirus Press TV 16 Mar 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday ordered stringent restrictions on people's movement to slow the spread of the coronavirus, and said the army would be drafted in to help move the sick to hospitals.
Joint Statement on the Ninth Anniversary of the Syrian Uprising US Dept. of State 15 Mar 2020 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Macron Says France to Overcome Coronavirus Disease Outbreak by Being Responsible Sputnik 15 Mar 2020 -- France is one of the worst-hit European countries. It had 4,499 confirmed patients suffering from the COVID-19 viral disease as of Saturday afternoon. Ninety-one people have died from virus-related complications.
French Health Minister Warns Certain Drugs May Aggravate Coronavirus Infection Sputnik 14 Mar 2020 -- The minister's remarks come as the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread to over 130 countries and territories, infecting more than 154,000 people and killing over 5,700 worldwide, including in France, where at least 91 deaths have been registered along with almost 4,500 infections.
Reactions Mixed as France Takes Tough New Coronavirus Measures VOA 13 Mar 2020 -- The spreading coronavirus outbreak has prompted several European countries to announce nationwide school shutdowns. That includes France. Some observers believe it may only be a matter of time before the country and others follow the path of Italy in putting citizens in nationwide lockdown.
France confirms 2,281 coronavirus cases, fatalities at 48 People's Daily 12 Mar 2020 -- France now has 2,281 confirmed coronavirus infection cases -- nearly 500 more than a day before, with 48 deaths and 105 patients hospitalized in intensive care, Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Wednesday evening.
Joint Statement by the Foreign Ministers of China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States on the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons US Dept. of State 10 Mar 2020 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, China, France, Russia and the United Kingdom on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the NPT.
Joint Statement on the Signing of the U.S.-Taliban Agreement US Dept. of State 09 Mar 2020 -- The text of the following statement was agreed by Special Envoys and Special Representatives of the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom, the United Nations and the United States of America on the occasion of the signing of the U.S.-Taliban Agreement on February 29 in Qatar.
France Bans Gatherings of More Than 1,000 People Amid COVID-19 Outbreak Sputnik 09 Mar 2020 -- France banned all gatherings of more than 1,000 people in order to confront the spread of the coronavirus disease, officially known as COVID-19, in the country, French Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Sunday.
Second French Lawmaker Tests Positive for Coronavirus – Reports Sputnik 07 Mar 2020 -- A second member of the French parliament's lower house has tested positive for coronavirus, the BFMTV channel reported.
France Confirms 949 COVID-19 Cases Sputnik 07 Mar 2020 -- The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in France has reached 716, with 11 fatalities, the French health authorities said on Saturday.
COVID-19 confirmed cases reach 100 in France: minister People's Daily 01 Mar 2020 -- In a daily press conference about the novel coronavirus outbreak, French Health General Director Jerome Salomon announced 43 new cases of coronavirus in France on Saturday, taking to 100 the total of people affected since the end of January.
NATO rejects France's offer to extend nuclear protection to whole Europe Press TV 16 Feb 2020 -- NATO's chief has rejected a call by France's President Emmanuel Macron to put the country's nuclear deterrence capabilities at the center of defense strategies adopted by the European Union (EU) members.
NATO Chief Rejects Macron Call To Put French Nukes At Center Of European Strategy RFE/RL 16 Feb 2020 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg dismissed calls by French President Emmanuel Macron to put France's nuclear deterrence at the center of European defense strategy, saying the United States and Britain already provide an effective security umbrella.
Macron Calls For New Russian Policy Despite Ongoing Kremlin Efforts To Destabilize West RFE/RL 15 Feb 2020 -- France's president has said that Russia would continue trying to destabilize Western democracies, but he called for Europe to adopt a new approach toward Moscow.
Russian Firm Seeks To Recover $11 Million Loan From French Far-Right Leader's Party RFE/RL 04 Feb 2020 -- An obscure Russian aircraft parts company is suing the political party led by French far-right politician Marine Le Pen to recover a $10.8 million that was lent in 2014 to help fund election campaigns in France.
France to deploy 600 more troops in Africa's Sahel Press TV 02 Feb 2020 -- France will soon be sending 600 more soldiers to Africa's Sahel region, where it already has thousands of troops stationed as part of a counter-terrorism mission.
Airbus Agrees to Pay over $3.9 Billion in Global Penalties to Resolve Foreign Bribery and ITAR Case US Dept. of Justice 31 Jan 2020 -- Airbus SE (Airbus or the Company), a global provider of civilian and military aircraft based in France, has agreed to pay combined penalties of more than $3.9 billion to resolve foreign bribery charges with authorities in the United States, France and the United Kingdom arising out of the Company's scheme to use third-party business partners to bribe government officials, as well as non-governmental airline executives, around the world and to resolve the Company's violation of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and its implementing regulations, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), in the United States. This is the largest global foreign bribery resolution to date.
U.S. Department of State Concludes $10 Million Settlement of Alleged Export Violations by Airbus SE US Dept. of State 31 Jan 2020 -- The Department of State reached an administrative agreement with Airbus SE to resolve the alleged civil violations of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA), 22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq., and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130. The Department of State and Airbus SE reached this settlement following an extensive compliance review by the Office of Defense Trade Controls Compliance in the Department's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.
Airbus Agrees to Pay Nearly $4 Billion to Settle Bribery Case VOA 31 Jan 2020 -- In the largest settlement of its kind, European aircraft maker Airbus SE has agreed to pay nearly $4 billion to resolve foreign bribery and other charges with authorities in the United States, Britain and France, the Justice Department announced Friday.
France condemns Turkey for 'violating Berlin agreement on Libya' Press TV 30 Jan 2020 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has lambasted his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, for sending warships and "mercenaries" to crisis-hit Libya, stressing that Ankara is breaching an agreement reached at a summit in Berlin earlier this month to halt foreign interference in the North African country.
France's Macron Accuses Erdogan of Failing to 'Keep His Word' on Libya Sputnik 29 Jan 2020 -- France has been a major critic of Ankara's move to deploy troops to Libya in recent weeks, calling for "the greatest restraint" to avoid escalating the decade-old conflict.
Readout of Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper's Meeting With French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 27 Jan 2020
Joint Press Briefing by Secretary of Defense Esper and French Minister of Armed Forces Parly DoD 27 Jan 2020 -- Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper; French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly
U.S., France Continue to Strengthen Defense Relationship DoD News 27 Jan 2020 -- Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper welcomed France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly to the Pentagon to discuss issues of mutual interest between their nations.
France: Eastern Partnership Doesn't Mean EU Membership RFE/RL 27 Jan 2020 -- France has rejected suggestions that the Eastern Partnership could lead to European Union membership for countries included in the program, and insists that half of its future funding goes to environmental investments, according to two documents seen by RFE/RL.
French Authorities Will Evacuate Citizens From Wuhan Due to Coronavirus – Health Minister Sputnik 26 Jan 2020 -- French authorities have decided to evacuate citizens who wish to leave the Chinese city of Wuhan, the epicentre of a deadly new strain of coronavirus, France's Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said on Sunday.
France's Government Introduces Pension Bill Amid New Protests VOA 24 Jan 2020 -- Tens of thousands of French took to the streets Friday for another day of protests as the government unveiled its controversial legislation to reform the country's pension system.
France deploys radar system, aircraft carrier in Saudi Arabia Press TV 18 Jan 2020 -- France is beefing up its military presence in the Middle East, sending a radar system and an aircraft carrier to the region gripped by heightened tensions.
France Deploys Only Aircraft Carrier To Anti-IS Mission In Middle East RFE/RL 17 Jan 2020 -- France will deploy its only aircraft carrier to join coalition operations against the Islamic State (IS) terror group, President Emmanuel Macron has announced.
Europe Puts Iran on Notice, Urging Tehran to Comply with Nuclear Deal VOA 14 Jan 2020 -- European powers have triggered a formal legal dispute in reaction to Iran's decision last week to shrug off all restrictions placed on it under a landmark international agreement that intended to stop Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.
Iran: Europeans must consider consequences of triggering nuclear dispute mechanism IRNA 14 Jan 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi referred to the three European countries' measures to activate nuclear dispute mechanism and said that what the UK, France, and Germany have done is a passive move and out of weakness.
Iran, IAEA discuss JCPOA ISNA 14 Jan 2020 -- Ambassador and permanent representative of Iran to the International Organizations in Vienna, Kazem Gharib-Abadi met with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi.
EU3 triggers dispute mechanism with Iran in blow to nuclear deal Press TV 14 Jan 2020 -- Britain, France, and Germany, collectively known as the EU3, have formally triggered a dispute settlement mechanism featured in a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, a step that could lead to the restoration of UN sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Bringing nuclear deal into dispute rooted in weakness: Iran's Foreign Ministry Press TV 14 Jan 2020 -- Iran slams the launch by France, Britain and Germany of a dispute mechanism under the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran as a "passive" move rooted in their "weakness," warning that the Islamic Republic will give a firm response to any "unconstructive" move.
Germany, Britain, France Trigger Dispute Mechanism Over Iranian Breaches Of Nuke Deal RFE/RL 14 Jan 2020 -- Germany, Britain, and France say they have triggered a dispute mechanism in the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and global powers, citing Tehran's reduced compliance with the accord, in a move dismissed by the Islamic republic as a "strategic mistake."
E3 statement on the JCPoA: 12 January 2020 UK FCO 12 Jan 2020 -- Statement from the heads of state and government of France, Germany and the United Kingdom, 12 January 2020.
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian US Dept. of State 12 Jan 2020
France Boosts Security of Troops in Iraq Amid US-Iran Tensions Sputnik 08 Jan 2020 -- France stepped up security measures to protect military personnel in Iraq after a US strike on an Iranian commander in Baghdad heightened tensions in the region, the French Defence Minister said Tuesday.
Joint statement from President Macron, Chancellor Merkel and Prime Minister Johnson on the situation in Iraq UK FCO 06 Jan 2020 -- Statement from the heads of state and government of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020

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2020 France Special Weapons News