New French PM Michel Barnier pledges unwavering support for Ukraine
Photo: Olivier Hoslet / AP
The newly appointed French Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, stressed the significance of standing by Ukraine, stating that the French and Ukrainians uphold shared ideals of liberty and independence.
Ukrinform reports that the head of the new French government said this in his keynote address to the National Assembly.
"France will remain on the side of the Ukrainian people," Barnier said.
The French government leader acknowledged the bravery and perseverance of the Ukrainian people in their ongoing fight against the Russian aggression, which has now been ongoing for over two years.
"These are people [Ukrainians – ed.] who, two and a half years after the start of an aggressive war, continue to fight and die to protect their freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We must understand that they are fighting to protect the values that are ours, which we share with them," Barnier said.
Barnier also emphasized France's role as a peacemaker, noting that his country will work to establish peace in conflict regions while maintaining its authority on the world stage.
Despite some ultra-left politicians staging a protest against the new government and causing a commotion, the prime minister concluded his speech by urging unity to preserve the Republic and strengthen European cooperation.
"Let's take care of the Republic. It's fragile. Let's take care of Europe; it's necessary," Barnier said at the end of his speech, expressing his belief in the collective ability to overcome obstacles.
It should be added that Barnier was appointed to the position almost three months after the resignation of the previous prime minister and two months after the results of the parliamentary elections.
From 2004 to 2005, Michel Barnier was France's Minister of Foreign Affairs. Later, he headed the country's Ministry of Agriculture and was a European Commissioner.
For reference:
At the beginning of June, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the dissolution of the lower house of the French parliament. This decision came after his political defeat in the European Parliament elections, typically seen as a gauge of public support for the government.
Since parliamentary elections in France are held under the majority system, they occur in two rounds. The first round took place on June 30, and the second on July 7.
In the first round, the far-right National Unity party, whose formal leader is Marine Le Pen, known for her pro-Russian views and statements, received the most support. The ultra-left "New People's Front" took second place, while Macron's coalition came third.
The second round of elections to the National Assembly (the lower house of the parliament) ended in France on July 7. The party of pro-Russian Marine Le Pen was defeated.
On July 16, French President Emmanuel Macron approved the resignations of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and his government. They continued to fulfill their duties until the new government was established.
On September 5, Macron appointed Michel Barnier, 73, the new prime minister and tasked him with forming a unity government.
