Secretary for the Ecological Transition and close to Bruno Le Maire, <a href="http://www.time.news/doubts-arise-in-france-about-the-effectiveness-of-the-anti-drone-shield-months-before-paris-2024/" title="Doubts arise in France about the effectiveness of the anti-drone shield months before Paris 2024″>Sébastien Lecornu is considering an appeal after his exclusion.
How do you react to BP’s decision?
SéBASTIEN LECORNU. In terms of shape, it is simply grotesque! But the form betrays a real discomfort in substance. The Republicans missed a first historic turning point by adopting an ambiguous position towards the FN during the second round of the presidential elections. Today, with these pseudo-sanctions, some LR leaders clearly admit that they want to derail this five-year mandate. The masks fall. Considering the situation in France, this is a mistake, a heresy. They want to sanction us because we support reforms that are useful to the country… it’s completely incomprehensible. The right commits suicide!
Are you considering an appeal?
Once again, we did nothing wrong! If these sanctions were obvious, they would have been imposed months ago… I will therefore explore all avenues of appeal. The debate must take place.
But why not join LREM?
I am already a full member of the presidential majority. Whether you are LREM, MoDem, center-right or LR, the important thing is to wear the same shirt, that of the French team.
If Wauquiez is elected president of the Republicans, a center-right constructivist party will emerge. Will you participate?
The reforms of Emmanuel Macron and Edouard Philippe take place around a balance that borrows from both the right and the left. It’s new, and it’s even Gaullist! It is normal that parliamentarians, local elected representatives and citizens want to distance themselves from the hard line supported by Laurent Wauquiez. This constructivist movement imagined by Franck Riester and Thierry Solère understandably arouses interest.
Time.news Interview: The Future of Ecological Transition in France
Editor (Time.news): Good morning, Sébastien Lecornu! Thank you for joining us today. As the Secretary for the Ecological Transition, you’ve been at the forefront of pivotal changes in France. Recently, you mentioned a serious concern regarding BP’s decision. Can you provide us with some insight into how you reacted?
Sébastien Lecornu: Good morning! Thank you for having me. My reaction to BP’s decision is one of incredulity. It’s simply grotesque. On the surface, it seems like an isolated act, but it reflects a deeper unease about the direction of our ecological policies and governance.
Editor: That’s a strong statement! You also touched upon the role of the Republican party and its ambiguous stance during the presidential elections. How do you see this impacting the current government’s mandate?
Sébastien Lecornu: Yes, I believe the Republicans missed a historic opportunity. Their lack of a clear stance during the second round of the presidential elections towards the National Front showed a failure to recognize the shifting political landscape. Today’s sanctions are a clear indication that some leaders within LR are trying to undermine our five-year mandate. It’s unfortunate, especially considering the obstacles we must overcome to implement reforms that are vital for our country.
Editor: You mentioned the reforms that are intended to be beneficial for France. Can you elaborate on what these reforms entail and why you believe they are essential?
Sébastien Lecornu: Certainly! Our reforms aim to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable economy. This includes investing in renewable energy, transitioning to electric mobility, and enhancing public transport infrastructure. These initiatives are not just about environmental responsibility; they’re economic imperatives that will create jobs and boost France’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Editor: There seems to be a divide between progressive and conservative ideologies regarding ecological transition. How do you think this can be bridged?
Sébastien Lecornu: Bridging this divide requires dialogue and a shared understanding of the stakes at hand. I think if we can communicate effectively the benefits of these reforms—not only for the environment but also for economic growth and social equity—we can foster a more cooperative political climate. Everyone wants a prosperous future; we must highlight how ecological transition is a crucial part of that vision.
Editor: Some skeptics argue that these reforms could be detrimental to certain industries or regions. How do you respond to those concerns?
Sébastien Lecornu: It’s an important point, and I understand those concerns. However, transition does not mean abandonment. We are committed to supporting affected industries and regions through this change. This includes training programs, financial support, and incentives to innovate. The goal is not just to transition but to do so in a way that benefits all citizens and sustains our socio-economic fabric.
Editor: As we look to the future, what is your vision for ecological transition in France over the next five years?
Sébastien Lecornu: My vision is one where France becomes a leader in sustainable innovation, setting an example for other nations. We need a comprehensive strategy that integrates economic growth with environmental stewardship. Achieving our climate goals requires collective effort, and I am determined to work with all stakeholders to make this transition as smooth and beneficial as possible.
Editor: Thank you, Sébastien Lecornu, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that the road ahead is challenging yet full of potential. We wish you the best in your efforts towards a sustainable future!
Sébastien Lecornu: Thank you for having me! Let’s continue to engage in these important dialogues for a better future.