Latest news with #DominiquedeVillepin
Spectator
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Spectator
France doesn't need Boomers dreaming of political comebacks
If France didn't have enough to worry about right now with its soaring rates of debt, crime and immigration, now comes news of a political comeback. Dominique de Villepin, prime minister between 2005 and 2007, earlier this month launched his political party called Humanist France. 'I decided to create a movement of ideas, of citizens, through the creation of a political party,' he explained. 'This movement is for everyone. We need to unite all French people to defend social justice and the republican order,' he said. Given some of his recent statements about Israel, de Villepin will have his work cut out to unite the country. In October, the Jewish philosopher Bernard-Henri Lévy accused de Villepin of anti-Semitism and last week three prominent members of France's Jewish community refused to shake his hand at a ceremony. De Villepin has strongly denied Lévy's accusations. He also angered conservatives when he said recently he has no problem with little girls wearing the hijab. 'I'm not a fashion designer,' he declared. Boomers have nothing to bequeath to France The 71-year-old de Villepin, who reportedly has his eye on the presidential election in 2027, is best known outside France for his eloquent speech to the United Nations in February 2003. At the time, he was the foreign minister in the government of Jacques Chirac when France refused to join George W Bush's coalition of the willing against Iraq. France, de Villepin told the UN, 'has never ceased to stand upright in the face of history and before mankind' but it could not back military action against Iraq because 'there is an alternative to war, disarming Iraq through inspections'. It was a dignified address from a man known for his elegance as much as his eloquence. But Villepin hasn't always been as principled since leaving political office in 2007. A year later, a French business paper remarked that de Villepin was prospering financially in his new life as a consultant and international lawyer, and 'has only to open his address book to make an appointment with [Vladimir] Putin'. In 2014 the Daily Telegraph broke an embarrassing story about whether de Villepin had repaid a €100,000 bonus awarded to him by a governmental 'administrative error'. His spokesperson said he had repaid it as soon as he realised the mistake. The next year a French current affairs weekly ran a feature headlined 'The Secret Lives of Dominique de Villepin' in which it said his business was booming: from China to Russia to Saudi Arabia and particularly Qatar, thanks to his warm relationship with the ruling Al Thani family. In an angry television interview last year, de Villepin refused to elaborate on how he earned his money and from whom. Nor did he adequately explain why his company last published its accounts in 2008. 'By definition, when you have consulting activities, you don't give the names of the people,' he explained, adding that 'I would be totally prepared to do so on a confidential basis'. He assured his interviewer that 'there is no foreign power behind it'. The interview was a grimly fascinating reminder of the arrogance of De Villepin's caste. They are the Bourgeois Boomer generation, which evolved from the protests of May 1968 convinced they were born to rule. They include Nicolas Sarkozy, Alain Juppe, Francois Hollande, Michel Barnier and Christiane Taubira. The latter was the Minister of Justice in Hollande's Socialist government a decade ago. She attempted a comeback for the 2022 presidential election but was forced to withdraw when she could muster only 181 of the 500 sponsors of elected officials required to run. Hollande is also said to be considering running for the 2027 election, forgetting that he was the most despised president in the history of the Fifth Republic. At least he was until Emmanuel Macron arrived on the scene. This generation of Boomers with their barely distinguishable centrist ideology – De Villepin claims to be from the centre-right but he is more popular these days with the left – are blamed for the terrible decline of France this century. Economically, culturally, socially, academically and morally, France is in a desperate state. Last week it was revealed that public debt hit a record €3,346 billion (£2,887 billion) at the start of 2025, €40 billion (£34.5 billion) more than at the end of 2024. Doubtless, de Villepin (who was never elected to public office during his political career) looks at some of the leading politicians in France today – such as Jordan Bardella, Gabriel Attal, Marion Marechal, Francois Xavier-Bellamy, Marine Tondelier and Mathilde Panot – and sees thirty-something whippersnappers in need of schooling. That was how Michel Barnier treated Gabriel Attal when he replaced him as prime minister last September. Three months later Barnier was out on his ear, brought down by his own incompetence. Boomers have nothing to bequeath to France. Their day has passed and they should go quietly into the night. Whether Xers and Millennials will be able to clean up their mess is uncertain. The damage caused by the 68ers to the Fifth Republic may be irreparable.
Euronews
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Euronews
Former French PM Dominique de Villepin launches own political party
Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin has announced he is launching his own political party named Humanist France, two years before a presidential election is set to take place. "I decided to create a movement of ideas, of citizens, through the creation of a political party," de Villepin said in an interview with the daily newspaper Le Parisien on Tuesday. "This movement is for everyone. We need to unite all French people to defend social justice and the republican order," he added. De Villepin was the premier of France under the previous President Jacques Chirac between 2005 and 2007. He is perhaps best known for his impassioned 2003 speech at the UN Security Council, where he warned of the 'incalculable consequences' of France taking part in military action in Iraq. Will de Villepin run for president? More than a decade after stepping away from French politics, de Villepin has seen a recent spike in popularity after recent media appearances in which he condemned the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The 71-year-old politician accused Western governments of turning a blind eye to what he called a "spiral of violence" and mounting civilian casualties. Recent polling indicates that de Villepin's outspoken stance on the Middle East has made him France's most popular political figure — particularly among left-wing voters. When asked about potentially running in the 2027 election, he told the French press that it wasn't time to "enter the presidential debate," although he stopped short of ruling out a future campaign. He argued that too many political parties in France were giving in to 'populism, one-upmanship and stigmatisation.' 'The French people deserve a real choice,' he told Le Parisien, adding that voters should not be forced to choose 'between the radicalism of LFI (the hard-left France Unbowed) and that of RN (the far-right National Rally).' He announced that his new party would be free to join and open to people from all political backgrounds. It is unclear who will emerge as the winner in the 2027 French presidential election. Current President Emmanuel Macron is barred from running, having served two successive terms. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally, was banned from running this year after being found guilty of embezzling European Parliament funds. Le Pen is currently waiting for an appeals trial set to take place next year.
Straits Times
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Former French PM Villepin launches new party two years before presidential election
Popular former French prime minister Dominique de Villepin is forming a party, but has not confirmed whether or not he will stand in France's presidential election. PHOTO: AFP Former French PM Villepin launches new party two years before presidential election PARIS - Former French prime minister Dominique de Villepin has announced the launch of his own political party named Humanist France (La France humaniste), two years before the country's presidential election is set to take place. Mr De Villepin, 71, was prime minister of France under ex-president Jacques Chirac between 2005 and 2007 and also the late leader's foreign minister between 2002 and 2004. The traditional right-wing politician made his mark on the global stage as Mr Chirac's head of diplomacy, delivering an impassioned speech against the invasion of Iraq war at a UN Security Council meeting in 2003. 'I decided to create a movement of ideas, of citizens, through the creation of a political party,' said Mr de Villepin, in an interview with daily newspaper Le Parisien published on June 24. 'This movement is for everyone. We need to unite all French people to defend social justice and the republican order,' he added. Mr De Villepin – who was also minister of the interior under Mr Chirac – did not explicitly make clear his intention to stand for president but the new party is likely to be seen as a key platform for such a bid. 'I am not for escalation... but for a politics of balance and measure,' he said. 'Against a path of tension and identity polarisation, I offer one of assembly, public interest and humanism.' 'French people deserve to have the choice' and not be caught 'between the radicalism of the LFI (hard-left France Unbowed) and that of the RN (far-right National Rally),' he told Le Parisien. The contours of the French 2027 presidential election remain largely unclear, with centre-right former prime minister Edouard Philippe the only major player to clearly state he will stand and President Emmanuel Macron barred from seeking another mandate. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen is eager to stand for fourth time, but her conviction earlier this year in a fake jobs scandal disqualifies her from running for public office. She has appealed, and waiting in the wings is her protege, Mr Jordan Bardella, 29, who would stand if Ms Le Pen was ineligible. If French far-right leader Marine Le Pen (left) is judged to be ineligible for the presidential election, her protege Jordan Bardella will stand instead. PHOTO: REUTERS Mr De Villepin, who polls show to be France's most popular politician along with Mr Philippe, declined to say explicitly that he would stand saying 'now is not the time to enter into the presidential debate.' But he added: 'Faced with the path of tension and polarisation of identities, I propose that of unity, of the general interest, and of humanism.' AFP Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Embracing Mountains and Seas, Coexisting with Cultures: The "International Mountain Tourism Day 2025" Theme Events Officially Kick Off in Gran Canaria, Spain
Gran Canaria, Spain--(Newsfile Corp. - May 30, 2025) - On May 29, 2025 local time, the "International Mountain Tourism Day 2025" Theme Events officially kicked off in Gran Canaria, Spain. Centered around the theme "Embracing Mountains and Seas, Coexisting with Cultures-Mountain Tourism and Cultural Inclusiveness for the Future," the event brought together a diverse group of prestigious international organizations, government officials, industry leaders, experts, and scholars, and media professionals from around the world. The gathering aims to explore paths of inclusive and reciprocal global mountain tourism and shared development. Scene from the Opening Ceremony A series of activities were held as part of the Theme Events, including the Opening Ceremony, the Theme Forum, the Exchange and Sharing Session of Mountain Culture and Tourism, the China-Spain Cultural and Tourism Exchange Exhibition, and the "Night of Gran Canaria" Welcome Dinner. Guests participated in various formats to exchange advanced ideas, discuss frontier issues, and deepen practical cooperation. At the Opening Ceremony, keynote addresses were delivered by Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA); Miguel Sanz, General Director of Turespaña; Antonio Morales Méndez, President of the Government of Gran Canaria, Spain; Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism; and Yang Changqing, Director of the Oficina Nacional de Turismo de China en Madrid. Liang Nan, Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Spain, was specially designated by H.E. Yao Jing, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Spain and the Principality of Andorra, to attend the ceremony and deliver a speech on his behalf. He Yafei, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of IMTA, and Song Xiaolu, Deputy Director General of Department of Culture and Tourism of Guizhou Province, China, also delivered insightful remarks. At the event, Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding, signaling a future of constructive cooperation in promoting innovative governance in mountain tourism and advancing sustainable development. Peter Semone, Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), released the Asia-Pacific Mountain Tourism Development Report (2025), jointly compiled by IMTA and PATA. The report provides a systematic analysis of the far-reaching impact of sustainable tourism on economic growth, cultural exchange, and ecological conservation. It also offers forward-looking strategic insights and professional recommendations for the development of mountain tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. The event also witnessed the release of the Enjoy the Wonder of Mountains, Share the Natural Beauty-The "International Mountain Tourism Day 2025" Gran Canaria Initiative. The initiative, grounded in the concepts of mutual learning among civilizations and integrative innovation, calls on governments, enterprises, communities, and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, actively promote environmentally friendly tourism, and jointly build an open, inclusive, and mutually enriching mountain civilization. Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) "The IMTD has now emerged as a vital platform, not only showcasing the rich and varied values of our mountain regions but also fostering deeper exchanges within our industry and strengthening international collaboration," said Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA). He emphasized that this year's Theme Events-held against the backdrop of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, and the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain-will carry forward the spirit of "Mutual Understanding among People." By bringing together the insights and expertise of industry leaders, it will be a powerful force in fostering cultural inclusiveness and deepening the bonds between China and Europe. Miguel Sanz, General Director of Turespaña, noted that mountain tourism is one of the key directions for the future of global tourism. Turespaña is fully committed to promoting the sustainable transformation of Spain's tourism sector, aiming to achieve a balanced development that aligns environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic growth. The goal is to foster a new tourism model that is green, low-carbon, and enhances residents' well-being. Liang Nan, Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Spain, stated that on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between China and Spain, he expressed hope that mountain tourism, as a unique vehicle, would further deepen cultural exchanges between the two countries. He also invited more Spanish friends to appreciate the grandeur of China's landscapes and the charm of its civilization, and to jointly open a new chapter in China-Spain tourism cooperation. Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, emphasized that mountain tourism is a vital tool for promoting inclusive development, environmental protection, and cultural heritage preservation-particularly through its strong linkages to community empowerment and rural revitalization. She underscored that mountain tourism plays a key role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), directly contributing to multiple targets. Scene from the Panel Discussion The supporting activities were rich and vibrant. The China-Spain Cultural and Tourism Exchange Exhibition showcased the natural and cultural landscapes of mountain destinations in both countries through fine brush paintings and photographic works. The "Night of Gran Canaria" Welcome Dinner featured a spectacular blend of traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage performances by ethnic minorities and the passionate expressions of Spanish folk art. Together, they created a vivid scene of mutual cultural appreciation and harmonious coexistence between civilizations, set against the backdrop of mountains and seas. The event was co-hosted by the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) and Turismo de Gran Canaria, with strong support from UN Tourism, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF), the Mountain Partnership Secretariat (MPS) hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Oficina Nacional de Turismo de China en Madrid, the Guizhou Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, China, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Guizhou Province (Guizhou Provincial People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries), China. The "International Mountain Tourism Day" is an international commemorative day initiated by the International Mountain Tourism Alliance in 2018. Since its first launch on May 29, 2019, the theme events have been successfully held in China, Nepal, Laos, France, and Spain for seven consecutive years. Media Contact Company Name: International Mountain Tourism AllianceContact: Zhang YijingEmail: admin@ To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Middle East Eye
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Middle East Eye
Ex French prime minister calls for "isolating" Israel to prevent "ethnic cleansing"
Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin urged the West on Tuesday to "economically and strategically isolate" Israel to oppose the goal of "deporting" the population of Gaza. "We are facing an Israeli plan (...). After the reoccupation of Gaza, the second step will be deportation. The political objective of Benjamin Netanyahu and his government is the deportation of the population of Gaza, which is the hallmark of ethnic cleansing, of territorial cleansing," Dominique de Villepin told Franceinfo radio. He added: "The Europeans know this perfectly well, and they are there with wooden swords, even though there are three things that must be done immediately." First, "immediately suspend the European agreement with Israel. Most of Israel's trade is with Europe. Second, impose an arms embargo on all European countries. Third, refer the entire Israeli government and key Israeli military authorities to the International Criminal Court (...) by writing collectively to the Court," he proposed. "If you want to stop what is happening today, you must make it clear to Israel that there will be a before and an after," he added.
