Outgoing French Prime Minister Lecornu has expressed optimism about reaching a consensus on the country’s budget by the end of the year, despite the ongoing political crisis. This development comes as the country navigates a complex political landscape, marked by a deeply divided parliament and the recent appointment of François Bayrou as the new Prime Minister. Bayrou, a centrist leader, has been tasked with forming a government that can survive a no-confidence vote and negotiating a 2025 budget to mitigate economic instability.
The political crisis in France deepened after a historic no-confidence vote ousted Michel Barnier’s government, triggered by a standoff over an austerity budget. Bayrou’s appointment aims to stabilize the government and facilitate a consensus-driven approach to budget negotiations. Lecornu’s comments suggest that efforts to reach a budget agreement are gaining traction, potentially paving the way for a more stable political environment.
However, challenges persist, with the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) alliance calling for a prime minister from their ranks and Marine Le Pen’s far-right party playing a significant role in the current political dynamics. The success of Bayrou’s government will depend on its ability to navigate these complexities and build a consensus that can withstand the pressures of a divided parliament.
