LAMS, France, Sept 11 (Askume) – French Prime Minister Michel Barnier said on Wednesday he would form a new government next week, ending a period of political uncertainty ahead of a potentially controversial 2025 budget.
President Macron chose Barnier, a 73-year-old conservative and former EU negotiator, to lead the government. The left-wing coalition received the most votes in early legislative elections called by Macron, but failed to obtain an absolute majority.
Barnier said he would defend some of the president’s key policies and strengthen the government’s stance on immigration. His government will be tasked with pushing through reforms and passing a budget despite parliamentary instability, while France faces pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to reduce its deficit.