French President Emmanuel Macron has postponed a state visit to Germany due to the ongoing protests and riots in France, German authorities said on Saturday. Macron was expected to arrive in the country on Sunday for talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to discuss key policy areas, such as climate change, digitalization, and European integration.
The decision to delay the visit came as France faced a fourth night of violent unrest following the death of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk, who was shot by police during a traffic stop in a Paris suburb on Tuesday. The incident sparked widespread anger and accusations of police brutality and racism, leading to clashes between protesters and security forces across the country. More than 1,300 people have been arrested and dozens of vehicles and buildings have been set on fire.
A funeral for the teenager began on Saturday, with family and friends viewing the open coffin before it will be taken to a mosque for a ceremony and later burial. The funeral was attended by hundreds of mourners, some wearing T-shirts with Merzouk’s name and picture.
Macron has condemned the violence and expressed his condolences to the family, saying he will not tolerate any “excesses” by the police. He has also promised to launch an investigation into the shooting and to reform the police force to improve its relations with the public.