China alerts citizens in France on security

A China today asked its citizens who are in France to remain vigilant about the risks and to strengthen the “security measures” following acts of violence that shake the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in France called on Chinese citizens in France to “strengthen their surveillance against risks, closely monitor developments in the local situation, strengthen security measures and avoid demonstration zones,” according to state television CCTV.

Beijing's citizens' warning comes after the announcement by the French Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, of the imposition of limited and localized mandatory curfews to prevent further disturbances and pillage in the most sensitive areas.

Lecornu announced, after an emergency meeting with senior government officials, that he instructed the mayors to apply the measure in the areas where it is deemed necessary.

“On Saturday, despite scenes of serious violence and extensive material damage, no one died, and this is a miracle,” said the head of the government, defending the police forces’ actions in violent groups.

The decision follows a weekend marked by riots and looting in several major cities, including Paris, Lyon and Marseille, following protests against rising cost of living and conditions in schools.

At least 2,400 people were arrested throughout the country.

The French Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, presented his resignation, rejected by President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday.

The French President ordered Nuñez to take “all necessary measures to ensure full transparency on the flaws in planning and gathering information” preceding the violence.

The Head of State also called for the introduction, “as soon as possible”, of new police tactics on the ground to put an end to violent incidents.

In a communication to the country, Macron promised to hold those who “tried to overthrow the Republic” accountable.

“ Those who have looted will have to compensate for the damages, and those who have tried to overthrow the Republic will be held accountable,” said the French Head of State in the intervention.

Macron pointed out the “unbridled violence” on the part of “elements of extreme left-wing radical groups, to which countless criminals were joined”, expressing the “rage” and “shame” of the French population in the face of acts of violence taking place on the margins of Saturday’s demonstrations.

“We all feel angry and ashamed tonight,” said the President of France, calling for the protesters not to be “confounded” with “legitimate claims” with “those who destroyed, left and plundered”.