Michel Barnier, the former EU Chief Negotiator for Brexit, has embarked on a remarkable political journey that has transformed him from "Mr Brexit" to a potential French Prime Minister. Here's a detailed look at his path to prominence:

Michel Barnier was born in La Tronche, France, in 1951. He studied law and political science before entering politics in 1978 as a member of the conservative Union for French Democracy (UDF).

Barnier served in various ministerial positions under President Jacques Chirac and Prime Minister François Fillon. Notably, he held the portfolio of Foreign Minister from 1995 to 1997.

In 2006, Barnier was appointed European Commissioner for Regional Policy. He later served as Commissioner for the Internal Market and Services from 2010 to 2014.

In 2016, Barnier was tasked with the politically sensitive role of EU Chief Negotiator for Brexit. He led the EU's negotiations with the United Kingdom on its withdrawal from the bloc.

During the Brexit negotiations, Barnier became known as "Mr Brexit" due to his central role in the process. He was viewed as a tough negotiator who defended the interests of the EU.

Barnier's tenure as Chief Negotiator was marked by both challenges and successes. He helped secure an orderly withdrawal agreement but faced criticism for his handling of certain aspects of the negotiations.

Following the conclusion of Brexit negotiations, Barnier returned to French politics. In 2019, he was elected to the European Parliament as a member of Les Républicains (LR), a center-right party.

In 2022, Barnier announced his candidacy for the French presidency, but he was defeated in the first round of voting.

Despite his defeat in the presidential election, Barnier remains a highly respected figure in French politics. He is considered a potential Prime Minister for current President Emmanuel Macron.

Barnier has expressed a willingness to work with Macron, and he is seen as a possible compromise candidate who could bridge the gap between Macron and the more traditional right.

Michel Barnier's journey from "Mr Brexit" to French Prime Minister is a testament to his political skills and diplomatic acumen.

He has proven himself to be a tough negotiator, even in complex and challenging situations like Brexit.

Barnier's return to French politics and potential role as Prime Minister indicate that he remains a significant force in the French political landscape.

Whether he ultimately becomes Prime Minister or not, Michel Barnier's legacy as a skilled politician and negotiator is likely to endure for years to come.

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