France's newly appointed Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, has unveiled his cabinet lineup after days of negotiations and speculation. The government includes a mix of holdovers from the previous administration, several conservative newcomers, and first-time centrist appointees. This diverse composition has been described as "the most right-wing government since the Fillon administration under Nicolas Sarkozy's presidency" over a decade ago by veteran political commentator Alain Duhamel.

Barnier's cabinet is characterized by prominent figures such as Catherine Vautrin as Minister for Territorial Partnerships and Decentralization, and Bruno Retailleau as Minister of the Interior known for his hardline immigration stance. The new government also comprises Jean-Noël Barrot as Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs and Rachida Dati as Minister of Culture and Heritage. These appointments reflect a strategic balance aimed at achieving "national unity," as urged by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Key concerns arose during negotiations over potential tax hikes to address France's deficit, which Macron's Renaissance party opposed. The cabinet's formation also sparked discussions surrounding the distribution of key positions between Barnier's conservative party and Macron's centrists. The government's priorities, outlined by the prime minister's office, encompass improving living standards, ensuring security, addressing immigration, boosting economic appeal, protecting the environment, and managing French debt. The policies and initiatives of Barnier's government are set to be expounded upon during his inaugural policy speech before parliament on October 1.