PARIS, France, Jan 9: In a historic move, French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Gabriel Attal, the 34-year-old Minister of Education, as the country's new prime minister, marking the youngest individual to hold the position since the founding of the French Fifth Republic in 1958.

A rising star within Macron's Renaissance Party, Attal previously served as the Minister of Education and National Youth. Notably, he implemented a controversial ban on wearing the abaya in French public schools and focused on addressing bullying awareness during his tenure.

Expressing confidence in Attal's capabilities, Macron stated, "I know I can count on your energy and your commitment" in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) following the announcement. Attal's new role requires him to form a new government and navigate legislative processes to advance the president's agenda.

Attal replaces Elisabeth Borne, who resigned from the prime minister post after a challenging 20-month term marked by unpopular retirement reforms and urban riots. Borne, the first female prime minister in three decades, faced difficulties passing legislation as her party failed to secure an absolute majority in parliamentary elections.

Borne's repeated use of a constitutional clause, known as "49.3," to push bills through without a vote drew criticism for perceived anti-democratic behavior. Her departure precedes a long-anticipated cabinet reshuffle amid Macron's declining popularity in opinion polls.

The outgoing interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, played a key role in a controversial immigration reform bill that garnered both support and criticism. Le Pen, a far-right figurehead, hailed the bill as an "ideological victory." Borne's resignation aligns with Macron's efforts for a political reset ahead of European elections and the Paris Olympics this summer, aiming to address waning public support.

As the French president faces challenges from the far-right and seeks political rejuvenation, Attal's appointment is seen as a strategic move. Surveys indicate that Attal is one of the more well-liked members of Macron's government, providing a potential boost ahead of critical upcoming events.