French President Emmanuel Macron has named Michel Barnier the country’s new prime minister, the presidency said in a statement, APA reports citing France 24.
Seventy-three-year-old Barnier led the EU’s talks with Britain over its exit from the bloc from 2016-2021. Prior to that, the conservative politician held roles in various French governments and was also EU Commissioner.
The appointment comes nearly three months after snap legislative elections put France into a political deadlock when no party won an outright majority. The New Popular Front leftist alliance surprised everyone by taking the most seats while Macron’s Ensemble coalition came in second, ahead of the far-right National Rally.
Macron asked outgoing Prime Minister Gabriel Attal to remain in his post to ensure stability, notably as France hosted millions of visitors for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in July and August.
Conservatives Xavier Bertrand and Michel Barnier as well as former Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve were among the names being floated for premier.
Follow us on Telegram
t.me/apanewsaz
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
