French Government Negotiates Pension Reform Suspension to Avert No-Confidence Vote

Economic Minister Éric Lombard leads talks with left-wing parties over pensions and budget, seeking compromise before Prime Minister Bayrou's policy declaration.

The French government is negotiating with socialist, ecologist, and communist parties to prevent a no-confidence vote following Prime Minister François Bayrou's upcoming policy declaration on January 14.
Key discussions center on potentially suspending the pension reform that raises the retirement age from 62 to 64, with socialists proposing a six-month renegotiation period.
Economic Minister Éric Lombard has emphasized the constructive tone of the talks but acknowledged challenges, with some parties expressing frustration over stalled progress.
Budgetary concerns remain significant, as the government seeks to balance pension reform costs with a broader fiscal effort of €50 billion, while exploring measures like taxing high-value assets.
The outcome of these negotiations will influence the stability of the Bayrou government and its ability to maintain support from left-wing parties in Parliament.