Michel Barnier, former chief Brexit negotiator for the EU, has been appointed as France’s new prime minister, according to an announcement from President Emmanuel Macron’s office.
The appointment follows two months of political deadlock after inconclusive parliamentary elections.
The Élysée Palace stated that Barnier is tasked with forming a united government after extensive consultations aimed at securing stability.
Barnier, 73, is widely recognized for leading Brexit negotiations and has held various significant roles in French and European politics over his 40-year career.
The announcement came after Macron accepted the resignation of former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal in July, following his party’s loss in parliamentary elections.
Reactions from France’s far-right and far-left parties have been mixed, with leaders either waiting to evaluate Barnier’s policies or criticizing the appointment.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon of the far-left France Unbowed party accused Macron of disregarding the election results, calling the appointment a “theft” of the people’s mandate.
