Marches in Paris shows unity, strength, defiance against terrorism

PARIS, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- An estimated 1.3 million people took to the streets of Paris, France, on Sunday in a demonstration of unity after a three-day-long act of terror gripped the nation.

World leaders who attended the march include French President Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko. About 40 leaders joined the protest.

The demonstration hopes to show worldwide unity and defiance against terrorism after the events triggered by the Charlie Hebdo terrorist attack which culminated in a hostage crisis. In the three day event, 17 people were killed and three out of the four suspects were killed.

More people filled the streets for the #ParisMarch today than who celebrated French liberation in 1944. Incredible. pic.twitter.com/RCsKzmE0JF

— Jack Slater (@Mr_Slater) January 11, 2015

At one point in the march, French President Hollande walked side-by-side with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

"Paris is the capital of the world today," Hollande said.

The march, led by relatives of the victims of last week's attacks, left Place de la Republique after a minute of silence was observed. The march was divided into two routes for security purposes and converged at Place de la Nation.

"Liberte" and "Charlie" were chanted in the streets, French flags were waved and the French national anthem was sung.

Security was heightened for the display. About 2,000 police officers and 1,350 soldiers were deployed to protect the public.