Governments in Europe and Asia, including China, on Monday advised citizens travelling to France to avoid large crowds and exercise caution. They warned that security conditions had deteriorated after thousands were arrested and shops were looted during weekend protests.
Demonstrations across France over high prices and declining public services turned into riots on Saturday. A town hall was torched as violent groups clashed with police.
European governments issue fresh travel warnings
Italy said its citizens should register their presence in France on a website or app so they can be located. It also urged them to avoid large crowds and take extreme caution.
Germany’s foreign ministry said further riots in the coming days could not be ruled out. It told German nationals to follow instructions from local police, and warned that people who failed to leave unauthorised demonstrations when asked could face fines or damages claims.
The Czech foreign affairs ministry said the security situation had deteriorated and advised Czechs to avoid demonstrations, marches and public gatherings. Poland said visitors should stay away from places where demonstrations were taking place, although its overall guidance on whether France was safe to visit had not changed.
The Dutch government, in an advisory last updated on October 7, warned travellers to avoid protests. Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway urged their citizens to avoid demonstrations and follow the guidance of local authorities.
China and Malaysia urge caution over planned trips
China’s Foreign Ministry and its diplomatic missions in France urged Chinese nationals planning to travel to the country to stay alert to potential risks. They also called for stronger safety precautions and for people to avoid areas where demonstrations were taking place, according to state media.
Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was monitoring the demonstrations. While travel to France remained unrestricted, it advised Malaysians to consider postponing non-essential trips until the situation improves. Its embassy in Paris has issued an advisory urging Malaysians in France to exercise caution and remain vigilant.
