Macron outlines his key priorities at inauguration

FRENCH PRESIDENT Emmanuel Macron has been inaugurated for a second term, vowing to take action to avoid any further escalation of Russia’s war in Ukraine and to promote France and Europe on the world stage.

Mr Macron was re-elected for another five years on April 24 in a run-off contest that saw him beat far-right rival Marine Le Pen.

He said at the Elysee palace in Paris: “The time ahead will be that of resolute action for France and for Europe.”

Mr Macron, inset, also promised to “first take action to avoid any escalation following Russia’s aggression in Ukraine”.

The French leader pledged to “take action relentlessly with a goal, which is to be a more independent nation, to live better and to build our own French and European responses to the century’s challenges”.

He also promised to find a “fair method” to govern the country and ease social tensions by making the government and parliament work together with unions, associations and other people from the political, economic, social and cultural world.

For a president at ease with speaking for hours on end, Mr Macron’s speech was surprisingly short – and handwritten.

But afterwards, he took his time to chat with scores of guests.

While he presided over strict lockdowns and coronavirus vaccine mandates as the pandemic swept through France, most restrictions have now been lifted and there was no sign of masks or social distancing at Mr Macron’s inauguration.

The event seemed unusually child-friendly for French presidential ceremonies, with several dignitaries bringing their children – with at least two in baby strollers.

Mr Macron, 44, has no children of his own but has step-children and grandchildren, some of whom were present at the ceremony.

About 500 guests were invited to the ceremony.

They came primarily from the world of politics, though also included actors, health care workers, military officers and former presidents Francois Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy.

Upon his arrival in the reception hall of the Elysee, Mr Macron winked at his wife, Brigitte Macron.

He was given the necklace of Grand Master of the Legion of Honour, France’s highest distinction, before making his speech.