Barnier's Conservative-Centrist Government Convenes Amid Budget and Migrant Crisis

France's newly formed conservative-centrist government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, convened for the first time, focusing on budget and migration issues. Barnier's top priority is the 2025 budget bill, while he also vowed to control immigration. The government faces political divisions after recent elections resulted in a hung parliament.

France's new conservative-centrist government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, convened for its first meeting on Monday. Barnier set the 2025 budget bill and migrant issues as top priorities for his administration.

In his first televised interview since his appointment, Barnier emphasized the need for a 'national effort' to address France's financial challenges, particularly the excessive debt procedure initiated by the EU. He also promised not to increase the tax burden on the general populace, suggesting the wealthiest should contribute more.

Barnier's government faces significant political challenges after recent elections resulted in a hung parliament. His first major test will be delivering his general policy speech to the National Assembly on October 1. President Macron will focus on international matters, including attending the UN General Assembly in New York.