Macron forms new government in France after election turmoil

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed a new government following a period of political instability that lasted over two months after the parliamentary elections resulted in a hung parliament. The new Cabinet, led by Conservative Prime Minister Michel Barnier, consists of 38 members, including ministers from Macron's centrist alliance and the conservative Republicans party. The government faces immediate challenges, particularly the submission of a budget plan for 2025, which is deemed crucial for addressing the country's serious financial situation. Antoine Armand, the newly appointed finance minister at just 33 years old, will be responsible for presenting the budget plan to parliament next month. His previous experience as head of the Economic Affairs Committee positions him well for this task. Other key appointments include Jean-Noel Barrot as foreign minister, who has a strong background in EU affairs, and Bruno Retailleau as interior minister, tasked with managing national security and immigration issues. The political landscape remains contentious, with opposition from the left, particularly from Jean-Luc Melenchon's France Unbowed party, which has already organized protests against the new government. Additionally, Marine Le Pen's National Rally party is poised to scrutinize Barnier's administration closely, although they have indicated a willingness to cooperate on budgetary matters. The recent elections saw the left-wing New Popular Front bloc winning the most seats but failing to secure a majority. Macron's strategy to form a government with Barnier aims to stabilize the political situation while navigating the challenges posed by a divided parliament and the potential for ongoing opposition from both the left and far-right factions.