Macron calls for Christmas truce in French pension strikes

French President Emmanuel Macron has appealed to transport unions to suspend strikes during the Christmas holidays.

“Strike action is justifiable and protected by the constitution, but I think there are moments in a nation’s life when it is good to observe a truce out of respect for families and family life,” Macron said. 

He added that the brief suspension would not mean unions abandoned their demands, instead, it would show a "sense of responsibility and the respect owed to French people".

A two-week nationwide strike against Macron's pension overhaul is set to disrupt travel for hundreds of thousands of people during the holiday season.