French unions, employers agree changes to labour lawsFrench President Francois Hollande led a chorus of approval after unions and employers reached a deal on reforms to the country's complex labour laws after more than three months of talks.
The Shard pierces London's skyline -- and skewers critics The Shard -- western Europe's tallest skyscraper -- opens its viewing platform to the public on February 1, giving unrivalled views over London and defiantly snubbing critics of the gigantic tower.
Marseille hopes for image makeover with culture year Long plagued by a reputation for gang crime and lawlessness, France's port city of Marseille is hoping its year as the European Capital of Culture will finally give its image a makeover.
Airport debacle ignites concern for 'Made in Germany' brand Germany is concerned that its fabled international reputation for efficiency may have taken a blow from a catalogue of delays dogging major projects, especially the new Berlin airport.
France's Carla Bruni to release new album Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, France's former first lady, will release a new album entitled "Little French Songs" in the spring, the singer-songwriter's agent said on Tuesday.
10 January 2013
Science gets a grip on finger wrinkles Getting pruney fingers from soaking in the bath is an evolutionary advantage, for it helps us get a better grip on objects under water.
Pregnant Kate turns 31 Prince William's wife Catherine marks her 31st birthday on Wednesday, but her well-documented pregnancy is likely to make it a low-key celebration.
09 January 2013
Czechs to vote in first direct presidential electionCzechs vote Friday and Saturday in their country's first direct presidential election, with recession, austerity and graft weighing heavily on the nation as it turns the page on a decade under ardent eurosceptic Vaclav Klaus.