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App to cut EU border queues won’t be ready in time

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Eurostar, the iconic cross-Channel train operator, confronts challenges ahead of the Entry Exit System (EES) implementation by the EU. With the October deadline fast approaching, Eurostar’s CEO, Gwendoline Cazenave, reveals concerns over the readiness of their app, intended to streamline border checks for UK travelers. Despite hopes for remote registration, manual checks at stations seem inevitable due to the app’s delay.

The EES, set to replace passport stamping, aims to bolster EU border security but raises fears of long queues at key transit points like the Port of Dover. Stakeholders, including P&O Ferries, warn of potential disruptions, highlighting the urgency for solutions.

Eurostar, however, remains proactive, installing over 30 kiosks at St Pancras to manage passenger flow. Despite recent challenges stemming from the pandemic, Eurostar’s resilience shines through, with passenger numbers rebounding to pre-Covid levels. Anticipation builds for the Paris Olympics, expected to drive further demand.

Eurostar’s commitment to sustainability and city-center connectivity distinguishes it from air travel, resonating with passengers seeking eco-friendly options. As the industry navigates regulatory changes and evolving consumer preferences, Eurostar stands poised to weather the storm, prioritizing passenger experience and operational efficiency. In the face of uncertainty, Eurostar’s determination serves as a beacon of resilience, ensuring continued excellence in cross-Channel travel.

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Macron says Paris Olympics opening ceremony could be moved

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French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony might be relocated from the River Seine due to security concerns. He suggested alternative venues such as the Trocadéro or the traditional site, the Stade de France. Originally designed to span a 6km stretch of the Seine with over 10,000 athletes on barges and 600,000 spectators along the riverbanks, the event’s scale has been reduced to accommodate only 300,000 invited guests due to security reasons.

Heightened security threats, particularly from groups like the Islamic State, have prompted the implementation of backup plans for the ceremony. Macron emphasized his commitment to ensuring the safety of the games and mentioned efforts to establish an Olympic truce, reaching out to international partners including Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8. Despite security concerns, Macron expressed confidence in the successful execution of the opening ceremony, emphasizing its historic significance as the first to be held outside a stadium.

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Paris Olympics: Row over ‘woke’ map as Paris gears up for games

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The artist behind the official poster for the upcoming Paris Olympics responded to criticism alleging that his artwork neglects French identity and Christianity. Ugo Gattoni, the designer, defended his creation, describing it as a vibrant and celebratory depiction of Paris.

Critics, particularly conservatives, have taken issue with the absence of prominent symbols such as the French tricolour and a cross on the Hôtel des Invalides. Some politicians accused the creators of the poster of attempting to erase France’s history and identity.

Gattoni explained that his intention was to convey a lively and festive atmosphere, rather than making any political statements. He emphasized that the buildings in his artwork were drawn based on his creative vision, without any underlying agenda.

The organizing committee also defended the poster, describing it as a whimsical interpretation of a transformed city-stadium, featuring various sports and landmarks. They stressed that the inclusion of the French flag colors and other national symbols should dispel any politically motivated interpretations.

Meanwhile, the Hôtel des Invalides has become embroiled in another controversy concerning proposals for Saudi Arabia to construct an Olympic village on its grounds. The French Armed Forces Ministry stated that negotiations with Saudi Arabia were ongoing but emphasized that any use of the Invalides site would be subject to strict conditions.

Some politicians, including right-wing MP Nathalie Serre, voiced opposition to the idea, asserting that certain historical sites like the Invalides should not be subject to commercial interests.

The Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8.

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