Barnier launches political faction, fueling French presidential bid rumours


FILE PHOTO: European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier gives a statement on the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, in Brussels, Belgium December 24, 2020. Francisco Seco/Pool via REUTERS

PARIS (Reuters) - The European Union's former Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said on Tuesday he was setting up a political faction under the name "Patriot and European", fuelling rumours that he was mulling a possible bid in next year's presidential election.

"I am available to work with all those who want it under the banner of 'Patriot and European', so as not to leave this theme to others," Barnier told centre-right lawmakers in a closed-door meeting, according to a participant.

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