Breakthrough dawn in French budget negotiations: government and socialist party seek compromise despite difficulties

On Thursday, French Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure revealed after a meeting at the Ministry of Finance with the Communist Party and the Green Party that negotiations between the French government and various political parties on budget issues are making positive progress, although the road to compromise remains difficult. He emphasized that despite the challenges, all parties are still working to find consensus, paving the way for a budget agreement before Prime Minister Franois Beru announces policy priorities next week. Faure said in an interview after the meeting, "Things are moving forward. We are seeking ways to reach a compromise, although it is difficult to find." His comments reflect the urgency and complexity of the government's budgeting process. The Beru government is actively negotiating with various political parties, unions, and business groups, including the Communist Party and the Green Party, aiming to develop a crucial budget for 2025. This urgency stems from the previous government's downfall in a no-confidence vote in December last year, leaving a significant budget deficit to be addressed. The support of the Socialist Party is essential for Beru to avoid a similar fate, especially considering the risk of the far-right National Rally proposing a motion of censure again. Faure further indicated that despite the opposition from Jean-Luc Mlenchon, leader of France Unbowed Party, he remains open to seeking a compromise with the government, emphasizing "There has to be a budget, that's what we're striving for," and hoping to achieve this goal under the most favorable conditions for the French people. However, Mlenchon expressed dissatisfaction on social media with the private negotiations between the Socialist Party and the Green Party, accusing them of "completely disrespecting our alliance." Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron, despite attempting to ally with left-wing groups like the Socialist Party, has not been successful. However, Faure revealed that the government has softened its stance on raising the minimum retirement age to 64, although the possibility of adjustments is not completely ruled out. "I understand one simple thing, that there is no veto power, and that is a change," Faure's words reveal a subtle shift in the French government's attitude.