France stages mass protests and strikes over budget cuts

Protesters hit France with transport strikes, notably hobbling the Paris Metro, demonstrations and traffic slowdowns and blockades, Report informs referring to France 24.

The first whiffs of police teargas came before daybreak, with scuffles between riot officers and protesters in Paris. Planned nationwide demonstrations were expected to mobilize hundreds of thousands of marchers and voice anger about mounting poverty, sharpening inequality and growing struggles for low-paid workers and others to make ends meet.

French pharmacies are also joining Thursday's nationwide strike, with around nine out of 10 expected to close.

Participation is forecast at 85-90%, though some will stay open to provide essential services.