International criticism mounted Saturday over a move to impeach Sri Lanka's chief justice, with Britain demanding protection for the incumbent and the beleaguered legal profession in the former colony.
Somali Islamists claimed Saturday that a French commando unit had botched an attempt overnight to free a hostage in southern Somalia, leaving several dead.
French 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 -- 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.
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.
The British flag was hoisted over Belfast's City Hall on Wednesday for the first time since the decision not to fly it permanently sparked riots in Northern Ireland.
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.
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.