Eric Lombard: 'The French pay too little attention to economic issues'

Eric Lombard, a figure with experience in both the private sector and public service, asserts that the French public dedicates insufficient attention to economic matters. Lombard, who previously served as the Economy Minister before the fall of the Bayrou government and headed the Caisse des dépôts, a major public financial institution, has transitioned back to the private sector.

He currently sits on the board of the Belgian bank Euroclear. Lombard expressed concern over France's budgetary situation, describing it as "not good." In his view, there is a need to re-evaluate the balance between labor and capital, advocating for a greater valuation of work.

Lombard shared these views ahead of a panel discussion at the Rencontres d'Aix-en-Provence, an event often referred to as the "French Davos." His perspective stems from his dual experience, having worked within the state apparatus and in private enterprise, leading him to observe a certain apprehension within the economic sphere.