Greg Stanton and Marine Le Pen examined the challenges facing France ahead of the presidential election at the Paris Playbook Symposium. The two main candidates discussed various issues including support for Ukraine, rising fuel prices, and the development of artificial intelligence.
Support for Ukraine in Focus
Greg Stanton, the presidential candidate and former minister, emphasized financial support for Ukraine, stating: "This is an investment in our security." He also noted that if Ukraine requests it, sending planes to support the skies of the country should be considered, although this request is not yet clearly defined.
In response to Bruno Le Maire's proposal to reduce France's contributions to the European Union, Stanton stated that he disagrees with this proposal and considers it insufficient. He also mentioned that penalties paid by large tech companies should be utilized to reduce the budget.
Economic Challenges and Financial Plans
Stanton expressed concern about France's financial situation, announcing that if elected president, he would implement a plan to save 150 billion euros over the next five years. He also warned of the potential risks of a debt crisis and referred to discussions with several economists on this matter.
Marine Le Pen, the candidate of the National Rally party, on the other hand, was strongly opposed to financial support for Ukraine, stating that France can no longer assist this country. Citing the economic situation of the country, she called for a budget to be approved in parliament and warned of the dangers of financial crises. Le Pen also emphasized the need to think about creating a sustainable budget for the future.
Le Pen also called for France to withdraw from NATO's integrated command but stated that this action would be delayed until the end of the war in Ukraine. She believes that now is not the right time for such actions.
At the end of the symposium, Le Pen announced that on October 6, she would publish details of her potential financial plan for the next five years, which includes 125 billion euros in savings. She also spoke about climate change and its impact on France, referencing her criticisms of scientific scenarios.
