'Anger and shame' over arson and looting - French president hears from high school students

[Paris Current Affairs] French President Macron said in a televised address to the nation on the 18th that ``everyone feels anger and shame'' at the arson and looting that took advantage of the large-scale demonstrations on the 17th, and condemned the rioters involved. On the other hand, he said that the voices of high school students and workers who held peaceful protests with permission from the authorities "must be listened to," and promised that the government would take action.

Riots arson, vandalize and loot as 550,000 people demonstrate in chaos - France

According to the latest figures from the Interior Ministry, reported by news agency AFP, about 2,400 rioters have been arrested and about 1,000 police officers have been injured. "Far-left dissidents and many criminals (who mixed in with the demonstrations) committed the utmost violence," Macron said, stressing that "those who plotted the overthrow of the country will be held accountable."

An estimated 550,000 people participated in the demonstrations nationwide. High school students demanded improved learning environments, and workers complained about rising living costs. ``I fully understand the concerns,'' Macron said, explaining that the government would work with students and teachers to resolve the issue, and vowed to engage in diplomacy to ensure a stable energy supply.

Tension between rioters and police continued on the 18th in the capital, Paris. Some left-wing parties have called for Interior Minister Nuñez's resignation, accusing him of failings in security.