French government meets party leaders as opposition questions motives

French Prime Minister is meeting political party representatives on Thursday, October 22, following union talks and ahead of new protests planned for Saturday, October 24, as the government seeks to manage nationwide tensions. Security, social demands, and preparation for Saturday's mobilization are on the agenda. La France insoumise will attend but Jean-Luc Mélenchon warned he intends to disrupt the meeting, while deputy Thomas Portes said the gathering won't end public anger. Marine Le Pen's National Rally will send representatives but expressed fatigue with the process, calling it a government tactic during difficulties. Centrist Horizons deputy Frédéric Valletoux suggested announcements may focus on campaign conditions, as questions remain over whether consultations will ease tensions.