China

Authorities have scrambled to contain public anger over the blaze, in which poor oversight and shoddy materials used in a renovation have been cited as factors.

The bravery of domestic helpers has put a spotlight on the critical role they play in the city, where they work for low wages.

Beijing may see friendly ties with France as a way into expanding its influence within the E.U., but is constrained in its ability to offer Paris major concessions.

Officials are rushing to tamp down anger and warn against "anti-China" forces sowing discord over the blaze, which killed at least 159 people.

The film's runaway success is particularly notable given the waning influence of foreign films in China, the world's second-largest film market.

The blaze started on the lower-level netting around one high-rise in the Wang Fuk Court housing complex before spreading to other buildings, officials said.

Some bodies have been found in stairwells and on rooftops where residents tried to flee, officials said.

For almost a year, residents at the complex had been raising safety concerns about the construction netting being used in renovations.

Years after it was replaced in mainland China, bamboo scaffolding is still a common sight in the Chinese territory, but may be phased out after the devastating Wang Fuk Court blaze.

Scores of residents are still feared trapped on upper floors although the city's leader said the blaze was now "largely under control."

The president has spoken with the leaders of both countries as they spar over remarks Japan's prime minister made about the Beijing-claimed island democracy.