The Latest Breaking News from RFI

After President Emmanuel Macron pledged to push through France's unpoular pensions reform bill in 2023, Greens party head Marine Tondelier told RFI street protests were the only way to scupper the policy, which would raise the legal age of retirement from 62 to 65 years.

This week on The Sound Kitchen, a special treat: RFI English listeners’ musical requests. Just click on the “Audio” arrow above and enjoy!

Artisans in Normandy are carrying on the traditional practice of lacemaking that dates back to the Renaissance. Shedding the dusty image of decorative doilies, the Bayeux Conservatory of Lace has rejuvenated the art through creative workshops and a boutique – proving just how modern lace can be.

In the presence of the Togolese mediator and Cote d’Ivoire delegation, the Malian government agreed on Thursday in Bamako to release the 46 Ivoirian soldiers who have been detained for the past five months in the Malian capital.

Restoration works on the Djidji Ayôkwé, or "talking drum", have now been completed in Paris. The artefact, stored at the Quai Branly museum, is ready to be returned to Côte d'Ivoire under a restitution plan promised by President Emmanuel Macron.

Tunisians are voting Saturday in the first general elections after a constitutional referendum in July gave President Kais Saied sweeping powers. Political parties have boycotted the vote and there's little enthusiasm among the population since the election's outcome is unlikely to improve the country's economic situation.

This week on The Sound Kitchen you’ll hear the answer to the question about the two newly elected leaders at the COP27 conference. There’s the bonus question and the “Listeners Corner”, and “Music from Erwan”. All that, and the new quiz question, too, so click on the “Audio” arrow above…

Turkish military forces are poised to launch a ground offensive in Syria against US-backed Syrian Kurdish forces, accused by Ankara of attacks on Turkey. But Ankara is facing stiff opposition from both Washington and Moscow.

This week on The Sound Kitchen, a special treat: RFI English listeners’ musical requests. Just click on the “Audio” arrow above and enjoy!