PARIS (Reuters) – President Emmanuel triumphed over his far-right rival Marine Le Pen by a comfortable margin in France’s election on Sunday, early projections by pollsters showed, winning a second term and heading off what would have been a political earthquake.
Here are the first reactions:
Marine Le Pen, defeated far-right challenger”Tonight’s result is in itself an earth-shattering victory (for us).”
“I fear that the five-year term that is about to begin will not break with the brutal methods of the previous one. In order to avoid the monopolisation of power by a few, more than ever I will pursue my commitment to France and the French people with the energy, perseverance and affection that you know me for.
Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian
“The French did not want a France that turns in on itself.”
European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune
“With a far-right at 40%, it show we’re going to have to work.”
Health Minister Olivier Veran
“We will not spoil the victory …but the (far-right) has its higher score ever. There will be continuity in government policy because the president has been re-elected. But we have also heard the French people’s message. There will be a change of method, the French people will be consulted.
(Compiled by Richard Lough)
