PARIS, Sept 5, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday named the European Union's former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as new prime minister, following almost two months of political deadlock after snap polls, the presidency said.

     Barnier, 73, the oldest premier in the history of modern France, has been tasked with forming "a unifying government in the service of the country", the presidency added.