President Emmanuel Macron faced the anger of France’s farmers at the annual agricultural show in Paris on Saturday. The event is known for testing presidents’ relationships with the countryside.
A large crowd gathered outside overnight and clashed with police as Macron entered through a side door to meet with unions demanding relief for the industry.
During a closed-door meeting before the fair opened, farmers sang the French national anthem and demanded improvements, while prize animals watched nervously from their pens.
The confrontation is part of a monthlong protest by farmers across France and other European countries.
Farmers are protesting rising costs, unfair competition, and EU regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They feel burdened by administrative and financial pressures.
Macron announced plans to address the crisis and acknowledged the need for recognition and support for farmers.
Macron engaged in discussions with farmers at the fair, listening to their concerns and promising action to alleviate their struggles.
Despite the protests, Macron urged for calm and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing agricultural challenges.
Farmers expressed skepticism about promises and demanded concrete solutions to their issues.
Macron outlined plans for emergency financial assistance and proposed solutions to issues like supermarket pricing practices.
The clash between farmers and police at the fair indicates that the movement is far from over.
