Chancellor German Olaf Scholz congratulated Michel Barnier on taking over as prime minister on Thursday France – the press office of the German government reported. “Our two countries are connected in a very special way – two strong partners in the heart of Europe,” Scholz wrote to Barnier.
The Chancellor expects both governments to “continue to jointly shape Franco-German friendship for the benefit of our countries and Europe”.
New French Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Michel Barnier. He mentioned Ukraine
“British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wishes Michel Barnier all the best on his nomination as the new prime minister of France,” his spokesman said on Thursday, emphasizing the strong ties between the two countries.
“We wish him all the best in his new role. The UK enjoys a strong relationship with France. As you know, the Prime Minister visited Paris last week and we are committed to working together on our common priorities, from combating illegal migration to supporting Ukrainy” said Starmer's spokesman.
Michel Barnier is the new Prime Minister of France. He is famous for his role as a negotiator
On Thursday, the French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Barnier, the country's former foreign minister and former commissioner European Unionas the new Prime Minister.
From 2016 to 2021, Barnier was also the representative of the European Union the chief negotiator in talks with Great Britain on the terms of its exit from the EU and agreements on relations between London and Brussels after brexit. That's it It is for this role that he is best known in Britain.
According to a statement from the Elysee Palace, Macron entrusted Barnier with the mission of forming a government after making sure that the prime minister and his government can count on stability and obtaining the broadest possible support.
In turn, Michel Barnier announced on Thursday that his priorities will be access to public services, safety in everyday life and immigration control. He also stressed the need for respect and calming down moods in political life.