(MENAFN) France’s outgoing Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that President Emmanuel Macron could select a new prime minister within the next 48 hours, following Lecornu’s resignation earlier this week.

According to reports, Lecornu mentioned during a televised interview that he had spent the previous two days consulting with various political groups. He emphasized that the French public expects political leaders to find common ground and work together.

When questioned about the possibility of returning to the role, Lecornu responded, "This evening, I consider my mission completed." He added, "I think the situation allows the president to appoint a prime minister within 48 hours."

Lecornu highlighted that the upcoming government should prioritize addressing France’s immediate political and economic issues rather than focusing on the 2027 presidential election.

He noted that the decision on whether the next prime minister comes from the left would rest entirely with Macron.

He further stressed the importance of advancing pension reform and preventing gridlock over the 2026 budget, which is scheduled to be presented to parliament on October 13. Lecornu admitted that although the proposed budget was “not perfect,” it should be open to negotiation, insisting that now is “not the time” for a change in leadership.

France has faced months of turbulence over budget disagreements, which have triggered repeated government collapses following no-confidence votes on fiscal reforms. Previous administrations under Michel Barnier and Francois Bayrou both fell due to such disputes.

Lecornu, who assumed the premiership on October 5, stepped down just one day later amid mounting political pressure.

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