MEETING THE FRENCH PRIME MINISTER

Yesterday, I had the great honour of meeting with Mr Manuel Valls, Prime Minister of France, who later met David Cameron, before going on to address London’s financial community at the Guildhall, at the heart of the City of London.

Leading a delegation of French business leaders working in the UK, I was privileged to take part in some highly productive discussions on the challenges facing our two economies.  I was struck in particular by the French Prime Minister’s eagerness to listen.                                                                                                                                                                                

In taking the time to consult with us, Mr Valls demonstrated his commitment to handling the challenges faced by France, the world’s fifth largest economy.  He was very obviously keen to hear the views of business leaders, widely experienced in international trade and accustomed to dealing with the challenges which face our two countries in a globalised economy.