French hauliers cancel strikes as Argentina and Uruguay prepare for papal visit

French hauliers have canceled planned demonstrations for October 21 and 22, 2026. The European Road Hauliers Organisation (OTRE) decided to suspend the protests following official government confirmation of commitments made during meetings on October 13. These commitments address OTRE's demands regarding diesel price reductions, the strengthening of the indexation system, and the rapid disbursement of subsidies.

Proposed legislative changes include extending energy indexation to occasional passenger transport services and replacing current criminal sanctions with administrative fines. For individuals, these fines could reach 90,000 euros, while legal entities could face up to 450,000 euros.

Separately, Argentina and Uruguay are implementing special border controls at the General Artigas international bridge connecting Colón and Paysandú. These measures, scheduled for November 5–7, are in response to the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Uruguay. Authorities will expand migratory control posts, with Uruguay opening ten lanes and Argentina providing eight for private vehicles and three for buses. To minimize delays, officials plan to conduct checks within vehicles. Transport companies are advised to adjust cargo operations during this period, though exceptions will be made for perishable goods and hazardous materials.