French Prime Minister Michel Barnier announced on Wednesday that he will assemble his new government next week, potentially marking the end of one phase of political instability before a probable clash over the 2025 budget. President Emmanuel Macron appointed Barnier, a 73-year-old conservative and former Brexit negotiator, to head the government two months after a snap legislative election called by Macron led to a leftist alliance securing the most votes but failing to achieve an absolute majority.
Barnier has stated that he will uphold some of the president's pivotal policies and intensify the government's approach to immigration. His administration will be responsible for guiding reforms and the budget through a divided parliament, under pressure from the European Commission and bond markets to reduce France's deficit.
