The final results of the French parliamentary elections show the leftwing NFP alliance with 182 seats, Macron’s centrists with 163, and the far-right RN with 143. This outcome means no bloc has a majority, leading to a hung parliament and the need for coalition talks. However, deep divides on issues such as tax, pensions, and immigration may hinder these negotiations. Macron has ruled out working with the hard-left France Unbowed party, making it difficult to find a prime minister. The possibility of a technocratic government, composed of experts rather than politicians, is also being considered. The situation in France is unprecedented, as the country usually has a dominant party in parliament and has no tradition of coalition governments. Economists predict a period of political deadlock and uncertainty, with the prospect of a minority government or coalition forming. Macron’s defeat in the elections may weaken his position, but he is expected to hold on to power until 2027. The euro fell in response to the election results, reflecting concerns about the political gridlock ahead. Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez expressed solidarity with France, noting the similarities with his own country’s political trajectory.
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