French government walks on tightrope as MPs set to debate Zucman tax

Two suspects in the Louvre heist have been apprehended by authorities, according to the Paris prosecutor. These individuals, believed to have broken into the iconic museum, were found living on the outskirts of the French capital. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts to enhance security at cultural landmarks and the swift action taken by law enforcement in response to such high-profile crimes.

French lawmakers have taken a significant step by voting on amendments to next year's budget bill that aim to increase taxes on multinational corporations. This includes doubling the existing digital tax on global tech giants and introducing a minimum tax rate of 25% on profits earned in France. While this move reflects the government's intent to ensure fair taxation, the amendments face uncertainty as they may be challenged in the conservative-controlled Senate. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over corporate taxation in France and its implications for international businesses operating in the country.

Two men have been arrested in connection with a daring jewel heist at the Louvre museum in France, facing serious charges of theft and conspiracy. This incident, involving a sophisticated break-in with a cherry-picker truck, has captured public attention due to the staggering value of the stolen jewellery, estimated at over $102 million. The ongoing investigation highlights the vulnerabilities even in world-renowned institutions, raising concerns about security and the potential impact on tourism and cultural heritage.

France has taken a significant step by enshrining the need for consent into its rape law, a change that gained momentum after the shocking mass rape trial last year. This legislative update is crucial as it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of consent in sexual offenses, aiming to better protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. The move is seen as a vital advancement in the fight against sexual violence, resonating with advocates and the public alike.

Corruption has long been a troubling issue in French politics, but the recent case of Nicolas Sarkozy highlights its alarming scale and severity. Dr. David Lees emphasizes the shocking abuse faced by Judge Nathalie Gavarino, who oversaw Sarkozy's trial. This situation is significant as it not only reflects the deep-rooted corruption within the political system but also raises concerns about the treatment of those who seek justice. The public's trust in the legal system and political integrity is at stake, making this a crucial moment for France.

Recently, messages in a bottle penned by two Australian soldiers en route to the battlefields of France during World War I were discovered on an Australian beach by the Brown family. This remarkable find not only sheds light on the personal experiences of soldiers from over a century ago but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. The discovery has sparked interest in historical narratives and the stories of those who served, connecting the past with the present.

A new book delves into the 60-year-old mystery surrounding the disappearance of Moroccan politician Mehdi Ben Barka in Paris, just before a significant meeting with the French President. This gripping narrative not only uncovers new insights but also reignites discussions about political intrigue and historical events that have shaped relations between France and Morocco. The authors' findings are crucial as they shed light on a case that has puzzled many and highlights the ongoing impact of political disappearances.

France is on the verge of a significant legal change as its Senate prepares to approve a bill that will redefine rape and sexual assault to include a lack of consent. This move comes in the wake of the high-profile Gisèle Pelicot mass rape trial, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections against sexual violence. The bill's passage marks a crucial step towards ensuring that consent is at the forefront of legal definitions, reflecting a societal shift towards prioritizing victims' rights.

In a significant development, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping met in South Korea, marking their first face-to-face discussion since 2019. This meeting comes at a crucial time as tensions from the trade war have been palpable. However, American officials indicated that Trump would not follow through on a recent threat to impose a hefty import tax on Chinese goods. Additionally, China appears open to easing export controls on rare earths and resuming soybean purchases, which could signal a thaw in relations and benefit both economies.

In a heated session of the Australian Senate, tensions escalated as insults were exchanged during an extended question time. Labor's responses to additional inquiries, particularly regarding negotiations with the Greens on an environment bill, have raised concerns among Australians. This situation highlights the ongoing political strife and the critical importance of environmental policies in the current legislative climate, making it a significant moment for both the government and the public.

The recent U.S. military strike that reportedly killed four individuals labeled as 'terrorists' raises significant concerns, especially since the White House has not provided evidence to support its claims. This operation, targeting a vessel allegedly linked to a designated terrorist organization, highlights the ongoing complexities of U.S. involvement in global counterterrorism efforts and the implications of such actions on international relations and local communities.

The tragic death of 17-year-old Ben Austin, who was killed by a cricket ball during practice, has sparked a significant debate in Australia about the necessity of neck guards in the sport. As the cricket community honors his memory by putting their bats out, officials emphasize their focus on supporting Ben's family and the young player who threw the ball. This incident raises important questions about player safety and protective gear in cricket, highlighting the need for potential changes to ensure such tragedies do not happen again.

President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have met for the first time in six years, aiming to ease tensions between the two superpowers over trade and technology. This meeting is significant as it comes after months of disputes, and a successful dialogue could pave the way for a more stable economic relationship, benefiting both nations and the global market.

In the Netherlands, the centrist liberal party D66, led by Rob Jetten, is in a tight race with populist leader Geert Wilders as 90% of the votes have been counted. While D66 celebrates its performance, the outcome remains uncertain, highlighting the competitive nature of Dutch politics. This election is significant as it reflects the shifting political landscape in the country and the growing influence of populist movements.