Macron defends balance a year after re-election – reform was needed

Since taking office in 2017, 1.7 million jobs have been created, unemployment has fallen to an all-time low and the number of training places has risen from 300,000 to 800,000, Macron said in an interview with regional newspapers in eastern France on Thursday. Huge investments, for example in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, are propelling France’s reindustrialization towards full employment.

“The issue of pensions is part of an agenda to make France stronger. Work is an important element. There is no wealth unless you create it first,” the president said. “Raising the retirement age means working more and producing more wealth for the country. It’s an effort for each individual, that’s true and I’m aware of it, but it’s collectively beneficial.”

He was aware that the reform was not well received, but he had to act for the good of the country. With the reform that has now entered into force, the retirement age in France will be raised from 62 to 64 years.

“What feeds the desperation is that we are one of the few countries in Europe that have not yet beaten mass unemployment and have become accustomed to deindustrialization,” Macron said. “We will end it and create jobs and factories again.”

If industry is allowed to collapse, public service suffers as well. “This is the history of France since the 1980s. That’s the page we’re turning.” One of Macron’s main goals was better wages and housing for low-income people. than 2000 euros. That must be our priority.”

Speaking to the newspapers in Strasbourg, Nancy and Metz, Macron declared a rejection of demands in Alsace for a return to greater independence. As part of the Grand Est region, to which Alsace has belonged for several years, the region bordering Germany achieves more than if it were left to itself. “It is also important to me that no new divisions are created.” (sda/dpa)