France: Bayrou Advocates for Exemption of Military Spending from EU Deficit Regulations

Paris – In an interview with Le Figaro published Thursday evening, French Prime Minister François Bayrou expressed support for excluding military expenditures from European deficit regulations, especially in light of current global threats.

“Our nation has made significant strides that others have not by developing its defense industrial capabilities, which is a vital asset,” noted Bayrou.

The Stability and Growth Pact mandates that eurozone countries limit their public deficit to 3% of GDP, with allowances for exceptional situations.

France has long faced challenges in adhering to this rule and is currently under scrutiny for excessive deficits, facing potential European penalties if it fails to comply within the stipulated timeframe.

With a public deficit projected to be around 6% of GDP for 2024, François Bayrou is targeting a reduction to 5.4% in 2025. (February 27, 2025)


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