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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's push for fast-track accession to the European Union (EU) has been met with resistance from Poland's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski. During a meeting in Kyiv, Sikorski raised the issue of exhuming the victims of World War II-era massacres of ethnic Poles in Ukraine, linking it to EU membership talks. This tension comes at a time when Ukraine is facing war fatigue among its Western allies and struggling to gain support for its NATO bid. The historical grievances between Ukraine and Poland, including the massacres of Poles in the Volhynia region, further complicate Ukraine's path towards Western integration. [Extracted from the article]

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has expressed his desire for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to implement a common currency by 2026, a year earlier than planned. Ouattara believes that Ivory Coast will be ready to meet the necessary convergence criteria by next year. ECOWAS, a 15-member organization, has been working towards a common currency for over two decades but has faced challenges in meeting the required criteria. Ouattara and Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo have committed to collaborating with other West African countries to strengthen regional economic integration and achieve the goal of a monetary union. [Extracted from the article]

Cameroon's government has banned media discussion about the health of President Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since early September. The government has stated that Biya, who is 91 years old and one of the world's longest-serving rulers, is healthy and returning to the country. The ban on discussing the president's health is seen as a matter of national security, according to Territorial Administration Minister Paul Atanga Nji. [Extracted from the article]

Cameroon's government has banned media discussion about the health of President Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since early September. The government has stated that Biya, who is 91 years old and one of the world's longest-serving rulers, is healthy and will be returning to the country soon. The government argues that debates about the president's health are a matter of national security. Anyone found discussing the president's health will face legal consequences. [Extracted from the article]

A petition has been filed by an activist lawyer to the Constitutional Court in Thailand, accusing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the ruling Pheu Thai party of undermining the monarchy and political system. The lawyer called for Thaksin and the party to cease their attempts to overthrow the democratic regime with the king as the head of state. The petition raises concerns about political uncertainty and the potential dissolution of the Pheu Thai party. Thaksin, a polarizing figure in Thai politics, is seen as having significant influence over the government. [Extracted from the article]

A petition has been filed by an activist lawyer in Thailand's Constitutional Court, accusing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his party, Pheu Thai, of undermining the monarchy and political system. The lawyer called for Thaksin and the party to cease their attempts to overthrow the democratic regime with the king as the head of state. The petition raises concerns about political uncertainty and the potential dissolution of Pheu Thai. Thaksin, a polarizing figure in Thai politics, is seen as having significant influence over the government. The allegations include claims of manipulating the party and colluding with a former Cambodian prime minister. Pheu Thai lawmakers deny the allegations. [Extracted from the article]

The Senate Economic Affairs Committee in Brazil has approved Gabriel Galipolo's nomination as central bank governor, with a definitive floor vote expected to take place soon. Galipolo, who is currently the central bank's monetary policy director, secured approval after assuring lawmakers that President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will not interfere with his decision-making. Galipolo faces challenges such as above-target inflation, strong economic growth, increased public spending, and a drought. He has emphasized the need for caution in monetary policy and maintaining an adequate interest rate to meet the inflation target. [Extracted from the article]

Gabriel Galipolo has been confirmed as Brazil's new central bank governor by the Senate, with a vote of 66 to 5 in favor. Galipolo, who is currently the central bank's monetary policy director, assured lawmakers that President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has promised him the freedom to make decisions without political interference. He will take over from Roberto Campos Neto and face challenges such as inflation, strong growth, higher public spending, and a drought. Galipolo has emphasized the need for caution in monetary policy and maintaining the interest rate at an adequate level to hit the inflation target. [Extracted from the article]

Gabriel Galipolo, Brazil's nominee for central bank governor, stated during his Senate confirmation hearing that he will have the freedom to make decisions without political interference. He expressed concern about above-target inflation estimates and emphasized the need for caution in monetary policy. Galipolo's nomination is expected to be approved by Brazilian Senators, and he would replace Roberto Campos Neto as the head of the central bank. Despite initial expectations that Galipolo would deliver rate cuts, he has been working to build credibility as an inflation hawk who is willing to raise borrowing costs to control price growth. [Extracted from the article]

Austria's far-right leader, Herbert Kickl, criticized the conservative People's Party and the Social Democrats for their "sinister and undemocratic show of force" and arrogance. Despite winning the most seats in the national election, Kickl's anti-immigrant Freedom Party is still far from having enough support to form a government. The People's Party and the Social Democrats have the option to form a government on their own or with a third party, effectively freezing out Kickl. This situation reflects the limits of divisive politics in European democracies, as seen in France and Germany as well. [Extracted from the article]

Austria's far-right leader, Herbert Kickl, criticized the conservative People's Party and the Social Democrats for their "sinister and undemocratic show of force" and arrogance. Despite winning the most seats in the national election, Kickl's anti-immigrant Freedom Party is still far from having enough support to form a government. The People's Party and the Social Democrats have the option to form a government on their own or with a third party, effectively excluding Kickl. This situation reflects the challenges faced by far-right parties in European democracies, where alliances are formed to prevent their rule. [Extracted from the article]

Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Mexico's first female head of state, won the election with a significant margin and is set to take office on October 1. Sheinbaum, who was previously the mayor of Mexico City, has been touring the country with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to showcase their achievements and maintain their political alliance. While some critics have questioned Sheinbaum's independence from López Obrador, she has emphasized their shared goals and commitment to the same political project. Sheinbaum faces challenges such as a struggling economy, high poverty rates, and a security crisis, but she has outlined her own policy proposals, including cash aid programs and infrastructure development. [Extracted from the article]

According to the director-general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, suspected cases of mpox have been reported in over 15 African countries. However, many of these cases cannot be confirmed due to inadequate testing. So far this year, there have been over 32,000 confirmed cases and 840 deaths on the continent. A new mpox fund has been established with $314 million pledged, and the US will provide $500 million in support and 1 million vaccine shots. The vaccination program may include the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, where 17 million people reside. [Extracted from the article]

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump plans to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as he continues to engage with foreign leaders during the United Nations General Assembly. Starmer's meeting with Trump will be their first since Starmer's Labour Party came to power in July, and the UK leader has expressed a willingness to work with whoever wins the US election in November. The President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is also scheduled to meet with Trump, following meetings with Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden. Both Trump and Harris are seeking validation from global allies and partners to bolster their electoral standing. [Extracted from the article]

The number of women leaders speaking at the United Nations General Assembly is decreasing, with only 19 female leaders expected to address the assembly this year. Less than half of these women are heads of state or government. This decline in female representation highlights the issue of gender inequality in positions of power. The United Nations has called for increased female representation, and there are currently only 27 countries with female leaders. The UN Secretary-General has expressed his desire for his successor to be a woman. [Extracted from the article]

Czech central banker Tomas Holub, who has supported monetary easing, has called for further interest rate cuts before he leaves the rate-setting panel later this year. Holub believes that there is room to reduce rates to 4% from 4.5% in the next two meetings. He argues that the economy is recovering slowly and that it would be premature to end or pause the rate-cutting cycle. Holub's comments align with market expectations but are more aggressive than the central bank's forecast, which predicts a pause in reductions. A new appointment to the central bank would be Czech President Petr Pavel's first since taking office, and it may be his only one this term. Holub believes that inflation risks are receding due to factors such as wage growth below forecast, subdued private spending, weaker demand for Czech exports, and easing by the US Federal Reserve and European Central Bank. He sees no risk of rapid demand-driven inflationary pressures and believes that a steady progression of rate cuts is necessary given the worsening economic outlook. Holub expects a consensus to continue with the standard 25 basis-point rate cuts. The Czech Republic's export economy is facing weak demand, particularly from Germany, and the automotive segment's resilience is due to an order backlog affected by supply-chain disruptions. August's higher-than-expected price growth was caused by volatile food costs and remains close to the target. Services inflation, which has been a concern, is showing signs of a gradual slowdown. Holub believes that even a [Extracted from the article]

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relations with South Korea, regardless of who becomes Japan's next leader. Kishida made this statement during talks with South Korean counterpart Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul, where they signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on evacuating their citizens from third countries in emergencies. South Korea's president expressed hope for continued positive momentum in their cooperation and progress in their trilateral partnership with the US. The leadership transition in Japan adds uncertainty to Yoon's foreign policy agenda, which prioritizes improving ties with Japan and the US to counter threats from North Korea. [Extracted from the article]

France's new prime minister, Michel Barnier, is calling for political factions to work together to overcome recent turbulence in the country. He has pledged to address issues important to the far right, such as security and reducing migration, in an effort to appeal to Marine Le Pen's National Rally party. Barnier will speak with Le Pen to consult with political leaders and former presidents and prime ministers. He emphasized the need for humility, listening, and respect for all political forces. Barnier faces the challenge of forming a cabinet that can bridge ideological rifts and navigate demands in key policy areas. Financial markets are closely watching the political situation in France. [Extracted from the article]

French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier as the new prime minister of France. Barnier, the former Brexit negotiator for the European Union, will be responsible for managing critical finance bills. This appointment comes after snap elections in France resulted in a National Assembly without a majority, leading to months of political uncertainty. Barnier's challenge will be to form a cabinet that can bridge the ideological differences between the left, right, and centrist blocs in parliament, as well as navigate demands in key policy areas such as pensions and the minimum wage. Financial markets are closely watching these developments, as France's budget deficit and debt levels have been a concern. [Extracted from the article]

Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has chosen Gabriel Galipolo as the next central bank chief, replacing Roberto Campos Neto. Galipolo, a 42-year-old economist and currently the bank's monetary policy director, will need to be approved by the Senate. The new governor will face the challenge of rising inflation forecasts in Brazil's largest economy, with Lula advocating for borrowing cost cuts to stimulate economic growth. However, there are concerns that the monetary authority may become more lenient towards inflation under Galipolo's leadership. [Extracted from the article]

Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has chosen Gabriel Galipolo as the next central bank chief, replacing Roberto Campos Neto. Galipolo, a 42-year-old economist and the bank's current monetary policy director, will take over a bank grappling with rising inflation forecasts. Lula's appointment of Galipolo will increase his influence over the bank, as he has already named four of the board's nine members. However, financial markets remain concerned about the bank's future leniency towards inflation. [Extracted from the article]

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan have discussed the possibility of new talks between their presidents in an effort to manage the difficult relationship between the two nations. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that the two sides discussed a new round of interaction between the heads of state in the near future, while the US readout mentioned ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and planning for a leader-level call in the coming weeks. The two sides also agreed to hold a theater commander phone call and discussed climate cooperation. Despite their differences, both sides expressed a commitment to maintaining high-level exchanges and cooperation in various areas. [Extracted from the article]

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan have discussed the possibility of new talks between their presidents in an effort to manage the difficult relationship between the two nations. Wang reiterated China's positions on various contentious issues, including Taiwan and US restrictions on Chinese tech ambitions. Despite their differences, both sides agreed to maintain high-level exchanges and cooperation in areas such as anti-narcotic enforcement, climate change, and artificial intelligence. This meeting marks the first visit to China by a US national security advisor since 2016. [Extracted from the article]

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden discussed the situation in Ukraine during a phone call following Modi's visit to Kyiv and his public embrace of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The White House confirmed the call and stated that they talked about Ukraine and the prospects for a just peace. Modi's visit to Kyiv is seen as an attempt to balance India's relations with the US and Russia, and India has agreed to relay messages between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. [Extracted from the article]

Libya's central bank governor and board have refused an order by ruling authorities to step down, leading to a potential showdown that could worsen the country's political turmoil. The bank officials argue that the Presidential Council lacks the legitimate authority to replace them. This refusal to step down adds to the power struggles already taking place in Libya, a country divided between rival governments. The central bank governor, Sadiq Al-Kabir, has faced criticism over the management of oil revenues and the state budget but has the support of the eastern-based legislature, the United Nations, and western countries. [Extracted from the article]

Lithuania's president, Gitanas Nauseda, has blocked the ruling party's candidate for the European Commission, Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, just two months before the upcoming election. Nauseda's decision is seen as a blow to the conservative party, which is already trailing in the polls. The president's move comes after months of clashes with Landsbergis over control of foreign policy. Nauseda has expressed alignment with the opposition Social Democrats, who supported his re-election. The ruling party will now put forward former prime minister Andrius Kubilius as their candidate. [Extracted from the article]

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu has announced his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections, a move that may strain the relationship between the two main parties in the governing coalition. Ciolacu's decision to run comes after pressure from his Social Democrats to fill a position that the party has not held in two decades. His main rival will be National Liberal Party leader Nicolae Ciuca, and the top contender in the polls is NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana. The role of the president in Romania is largely ceremonial but does hold certain powers such as naming the prime minister and representing the nation at international summits. [Extracted from the article]

Brazilian analysts have increased their forecast for the benchmark interest rate at the end of next year due to the country's stronger-than-expected economy. The benchmark Selic is now expected to reach 10% in December 2025, up from the previous forecast of 9.75%. The central bank has indicated a willingness to tighten monetary policy, with inflation estimates remaining above the target. However, concerns remain about President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's commitment to spending cuts and the central bank's tolerance for inflation once a new governor is appointed. [Extracted from the article]

Chilean President Gabriel Boric has accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of attempting to steal the recent election and violating human rights. Boric stated that if Maduro had truly won, he would have shown the voting records. Chile does not recognize Maduro's self-proclaimed victory and will not validate the results until they are verified by independent international organizations. The US has stated that Maduro's opposition rival, Edmundo Gonzalez, clearly won the most votes, while Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia are awaiting a thorough accounting of the vote before taking sides. Maduro's regime has arrested thousands of protesters and targeted the news media, with human rights organizations reporting 24 deaths since the election. Gonzalez has declined to appear before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice, citing concerns about the legality of the proceedings and his own safety. [Extracted from the article]

Bulgaria is facing the prospect of holding its seventh general election in less than four years after coalition talks failed once again. The country has been hindered by political paralysis, which has affected its ability to join the euro area, address corruption, and access European Union recovery funding. Despite winning the most votes in the latest election, Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and his Gerb party were unable to form a coalition. President Rumen Radev will now schedule a fresh election, likely in early October, and may appoint a new interim cabinet. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa is leading a regional force called Operation Thiba, which is moving into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to replace a United Nations force that has been unable to stabilize the region. The mission is an initiative of the 16-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC), but it is unclear how it will be funded. Rwanda has been training and funding the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo, and the new mission puts SADC on the opposite side of the conflict. The operation may strain South Africa's already depleted coffers, but President Cyril Ramaphosa sees it as a national duty. [Extracted from the article]

Senegalese President Macky Sall has agreed to hold elections as soon as possible after the nation's top court ruled that postponing the vote is unconstitutional. This decision comes after Sall's previous attempt to delay the vote triggered a political crisis. The government has not yet provided a specific date for the election, but it is expected to take place no later than March 2, as Sall's term finishes on April 2. The announcement of the election has led to gains in Senegal's eurobonds. [Extracted from the article]

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed optimism about China's potential role in resolving the conflict in Ukraine during her visit to Beijing. Despite tensions over China's support for Russia's industrial complex, Meloni believes that China, with its emphasis on sovereignty and territorial integrity, can be a key player in achieving a just peace in Ukraine. Her visit comes after Italy's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative, and she described her meeting with President Xi Jinping as "frank and respectful." Chinese state media has praised Meloni's visit, highlighting deepened political mutual trust and cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. However, China's close ties with Russia and its trade links with Moscow have raised concerns about its neutrality in the conflict. Meloni's diplomatic efforts aim to position herself as a leader who can engage with leaders across the ideological spectrum, including Xi Jinping. [Extracted from the article]

Latin American central banks may be hindered in their efforts to cut interest rates due to growing political problems in the region. Presidents in Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico are criticizing policymakers for high borrowing costs and inflation, and they will soon have the opportunity to appoint new central bank board members. Additionally, political decisions and tensions are adding to the challenges faced by policymakers. Despite these obstacles, economists are raising their interest rate forecasts for several countries in the region, causing discomfort among regional leaders. [Extracted from the article]

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has praised China's potential role in resolving the conflict in Ukraine during her visit to Beijing. Despite tensions over China's support for Russia's industrial complex, Meloni sees China as an important stakeholder in finding a just peace. Her visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties, following Italy's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Meloni's meeting with President Xi Jinping was described as "frank and respectful," and both countries signed a three-year action plan to enhance cooperation. Chinese state media praised Meloni's visit, highlighting deepened political mutual trust and cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. However, the European Union's tougher stance on trade with China and concerns about Beijing's support for Moscow have complicated Meloni's diplomatic balancing act. [Extracted from the article]

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has expressed optimism about China's potential role in resolving the conflict in Ukraine during her visit to Beijing. Despite tensions over China's support for Russia's industrial complex, Meloni believes that China, with its emphasis on sovereignty and territorial integrity, can be a key player in achieving a just peace in Ukraine. This visit comes after Italy's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative, and Meloni's meeting with President Xi Jinping was described as "frank and respectful." Chinese state media has praised Meloni for deepening political mutual trust and making Italy a bridge for East-West exchanges. However, China's close ties with Russia and its trade links with Moscow have raised concerns about its neutrality in the conflict. Meloni's visit to China coincides with Europe's anticipation of a potential shift in US foreign and trade policy after the upcoming presidential election. China has been positioning itself as a powerful player in the international arena, hosting senior Ukrainian officials and dispatching a special envoy to build conditions for peace talks. [Extracted from the article]

Tunisia's election season has begun with a series of arrests targeting President Kais Saied's rivals and critics, raising concerns about a lack of competition in the upcoming vote. Saied, who came to power in 2019, has not yet confirmed if he will run in the October presidential ballot. The recent crackdown has surprised many, with three prominent aspiring candidates and members of the largest opposition party facing police action. Tunisia, once seen as the most progressive democracy in the Arab world, has experienced economic challenges and political tensions under Saied's rule. The country's financial position remains uncertain, with high yields on its dollar-bonds reflecting investor nervousness. Despite these issues, electoral authorities are moving forward with preparations for the election, although concerns about media censorship and the arrest of journalists have also emerged. Experts suggest that Tunisia is on an authoritarian path, and these elections may only serve to consolidate Saied's power. [Extracted from the article]

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has stated that China has the power to end the war in Ukraine with a single phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Stubb's comments reflect the frustration among Ukraine's allies over China's perceived support for Russia's war effort. However, China has rejected this suggestion, stating that it did not create the Ukraine crisis and that it stands on the side of peace and dialogue. China accounted for 28% of Russia's total trade last year, and President Xi Jinping has sought to portray China as a neutral actor in discussions over the war. [Extracted from the article]

NATO allies have agreed to aim for at least €40 billion ($43 billion) in military aid for Ukraine per year, but did not make explicit pledges for future years. The funding target will be reviewed annually and may increase or decrease depending on the situation on the battlefield. The funding pledge, which still needs to be endorsed by heads of state, is part of a broader package to be presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at a NATO summit in Washington. NATO will also play a greater role in identifying Ukraine's military equipment needs and coordinating weapons deliveries. The wording for Ukraine's path to joining NATO is still being negotiated, with the US and Germany preferring to describe it as a "bridge to membership" rather than "irreversible." [Extracted from the article]

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has stated that China has the power to end the war in Ukraine with a single phone call from President Xi Jinping. Stubb's comments reflect the frustration among Ukraine's allies over China's perceived support for Russia's war effort. China has been accused of providing technologies and parts for weapons to Russia and helping them bypass international trade restrictions. China accounted for 28% of Russia's total trade last year, and President Xi has portrayed China as a neutral actor in discussions over the war. However, China opposes international sanctions and has accused the US and its allies of fueling the war by providing weapons to Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Mexico's President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected the suggestion that she should distance herself from President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, stating that it would be a betrayal of the Mexican people. Sheinbaum has faced pressure to clarify her positions in relation to the outgoing president, but she reiterated her support for a plan to modify the judiciary so that judges are selected by popular vote. Sheinbaum is set to replace Lopez Obrador on October 1st, and while analysts have praised her cabinet selections, she has yet to outline detailed policy plans. [Extracted from the article]

Indonesia's government is facing criticism after a cyber attack led to the disruption of airport and scholarship services. The ransomware attack affected numerous ministries and public institutions, causing immigration services to be down for several days and scholarship registration websites to become inaccessible. The government has chosen not to pay the $8 million ransom demanded by the hacker group responsible. This incident is the latest in a series of data breaches in Indonesia, raising concerns about the country's ability to protect citizens' information. [Extracted from the article]

Croatian President Zoran Milanovic has announced his intention to run for a second term in the upcoming December elections. Milanovic, who oversees the country's armed forces, expressed his hope that the opposition Social Democrats, his former party, will support him in order to prevent election fraud. Milanovic, known for his populist style and tendency to criticize his political opponents, was elected president in 2020 but failed to secure a majority in parliament when he led the Social Democrats in challenging Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. Milanovic has also been critical of NATO expansion and military aid to Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Italy is set to receive a senior role in the next European Commission, according to sources familiar with the talks. The deal includes nominating Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as head of the EU's executive arm, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni playing a key role in the negotiations. The offer is aimed at facilitating the process of filling the EU's top jobs and avoiding potential disagreements. The top positions are expected to be divided among the center-right party European People's Party, the socialists of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the liberals of French President Emmanuel Macron. [Extracted from the article]

Italy is set to be offered a senior role in the next European Commission, according to sources familiar with the talks. The deal includes nominating Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as head of the EU's executive arm, with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni playing a key role in deciding who will fill the position offered to Italy. This move is seen as an attempt to smooth the process of filling the EU's top jobs and avoid stalling an agreement. The negotiations also involve dividing the top positions between different political groups. [Extracted from the article]

The far-right and leftist political parties in France faced criticism from business leaders during a debate hosted by the country's business lobby, Medef. The entrepreneurs expressed concerns about the lack of detail in the parties' plans to address the country's public finances. The debate took place ahead of a snap parliamentary vote called by President Emmanuel Macron. The rising political tension in France was highlighted by warnings from business lobbies about the far-right and far-left parties. [Extracted from the article]

The far-right and leftist political parties in France faced criticism from business leaders during a debate hosted by the country's business lobby, Medef. The entrepreneurs expressed concerns about the lack of detail in the parties' plans to address the country's public finances. The debate took place ahead of a snap parliamentary vote called by President Emmanuel Macron. The think tank Institut Montaigne warned that the campaign promises of the competing political groups would cost billions of euros per year, potentially shaking up the markets. [Extracted from the article]

The far-right and leftist political parties in France faced criticism from business leaders during a recent debate hosted by the country's business lobby, Medef. The entrepreneurs expressed concerns about the lack of detail in the parties' plans to address the country's public finances. The think tank Institut Montaigne also warned that the campaign promises of the competing political groups would cost billions of euros per year. The leftist New Popular Front proposed the most dramatic plan, including a minimum wage hike and the re-establishment of the wealth tax. Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire also spoke at the event but faced skepticism from voters. [Extracted from the article]