NEWS
Lecornu II - Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s second government takes office today, combining political and technocratic ministers, but it faces immediate threats of motion of censure from far-left LFI and far-right RN. Its survival hinges on socialists agreeing to a suspension of the pension reform, while President Macron urges political stability amid a turbulent political climate. The new 34-member cabinet aims to deliver a budget and restore governmental continuity, though concerns remain about its lifespan.
Massive fire destroys Bernaga Monastery - A massive fire has destroyed the 400-year-old Bernaga Monastery near Milan, Italy, forcing the evacuation of 22 nuns but causing no injuries. Many artworks were lost in the blaze, believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit.
Motorways roadworks this leads to nighttime closures - Several major motorways across Provence, including around Marseille, Toulon, Aix-en-Provence, and Salon-de-Provence, will face nighttime closures until Friday for maintenance work. The shutdowns will mainly take place from 9pm to 6am and affect key routes such as the A7, A50, A51, A54, A55, and A57, as well as tunnels in Marseille and Toulon.
Motorcycle accident - A motorcyclist has been seriously injured in a road accident involving a car and a motorcycle this early afternoon in Garéoult, Var. Emergency services, including a helicopter and nine firefighters, responded, and traffic was disrupted.
Ponzo trial - The trial of the “Ponzo” network, the biggest drug-dealing hub in Vaucluse, has opened today in Avignon with sixteen defendants, including a woman accused of leading the operation. The organised network allegedly earned up to €20,000 a day from cocaine and cannabis sales. The case highlights the violence and deep local impact of drug trafficking in the Monclar district.
ISM hosts fourth TEDxYouth event this Saturday - The International School of Monaco will host its fourth TEDxYouth event on Saturday the 18th of October, the only one of its kind in Monaco. Centred on the theme “The Power of Perspective,” the student-led conference will feature talks, performances, and an interactive quiz, aiming to build confidence, empathy, and global awareness among young speakers. Each talk will be shared on the official TED YouTube channel to reach a worldwide audience.
Pink Ribbon Monaco Gala - The 2025 Pink Ribbon Monaco Gala, held under the Honorary Presidency of Princess Charlene, has illuminated over 20 landmarks in Monaco to show global solidarity with women fighting cancer. The elegant, sold-out event raised vital funds for a groundbreaking breast cancer detection study at Princess Grace Hospital and highlighted Monaco’s commitment to advancing women’s health worldwide.
Schools teach how to use AI - French schools are introducing AI-focused classes and large-scale teacher training to help students understand and critically use artificial intelligence rather than depend on it. The program, launched by the Education Ministry and tested in Nice, aims to teach how algorithms shape online content and promote responsible, informed AI use in learning.
Student boat trip - Elementary school students from Marseille have taken a boat trip to the Frioul Islands to explore the Mediterranean seabed and learn about marine biodiversity. Using aquascopes, they observed fish, sea urchins, and seagrass while being taught how to protect fragile ecosystems as part of an environmental education program.
BUSINESS
The Dutch government has taken the rare step of intervening in Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, citing risks to Dutch and EU economic security. Nexperia’s parent company Wingtech vowed to defend its rights, as the move heightens EU-China trade tensions.
And - US Vice President JD Vance warned of more job cuts as the government shutdown enters its third week, with hundreds of thousands already unpaid and thousands laid off. The deadlock continues as Democrats demand health insurance subsidies in the budget, while Republicans refuse, leaving major agencies and museums closed.
SPORTS
Football - England striker Ollie Watkins will miss the World Cup qualifier in Latvia on Tuesday because of injury.
Rugby Union - Exeter boss Rob Baxter says he is frustrated his side were not able to win at Bristol in a tight 18-14 loss in the Prem but will not overreact to the defeat.
Tennis - British number three Katie Boulter moved into the second round of the Japan Open after an impressive win over world number 17 Linda Noskova 7-6 (7-3) 6-3.
WEATHER
Hazy sunlight in Alpes-Maritimes and cloudy in the rest of the region accompanied by moderate winds. Highs of 23 degrees in Nice and 24 degrees in Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Toulon and Marseille.
Tonight, cloudy still with temperatures dropping 17 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, partly cloudy with highs of 23 degrees and moderate winds.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s second government takes office today, combining political and technocratic ministers, but it faces immediate threat...
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French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has named a new cabinet after his first attempt last week was scrapped over criticism. The revised team blends...
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The Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments will enjoy a sunny and calm weekend with clear skies and mild temperatures reaching up to 27°C. ...
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International leaders have welcomed the announcement of a breakthrough peace deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered as part of U.S. President Donald ...
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Former Education Minister Élisabeth Borne has urged political compromise “from the Republican right to the Socialist Party” to resolve France’s curren...
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