French President Emmanuel Macron's office has announced the formation of a new government following the collapse of the previous Cabinet in a historic vote triggered by disagreements over the country's budget. The newly appointed Prime Minister, Francois Bayrou, has assembled a diverse team that includes members from the outgoing conservative-dominated government as well as new figures from centrist and left-leaning backgrounds.
One of the immediate priorities for the new government will be to address the 2025 budget, as France faces significant pressure to tackle its massive debt amid months of political deadlock and mounting concerns from financial markets. With no single party holding a majority in the National Assembly, Bayrou's extensive political experience is expected to play a crucial role in restoring stability.
The far-right party led by Marine Le Pen played a role in the downfall of the previous government, prompting Bayrou's Cabinet to seek support from moderate lawmakers across the political spectrum to maintain its position in power. Eric Lombard, a seasoned banker who previously advised a Socialist finance minister in the 1990s, has been appointed as the finance minister to navigate France's efforts to reduce its deficit, which is projected to reach 6% of its GDP this year.
Bruno Retailleau will continue in his role as the interior minister, overseeing France's security and migration policies, while Sebastien Lecornu, who has been actively involved in France's military assistance to Ukraine, remains the defense minister. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who has recently undertaken extensive diplomatic engagements in the Middle East, retains his position in the government.
Notable additions to the new government include two former prime ministers: Manuel Valls, who will serve as the minister for overseas affairs, and Elisabeth Borne, who has been appointed as the education minister.
