As soon as President Macron finished uttering “vive le France”, the handshaking and celebratory music began.
‘Deep change’ ahead as Macron vows to begin work tonight
In closing, President Macron paid tribute to the leaders of the fifth republic who came before him – from de Gaulle to Sarkozy and Hollande.
“France has to rise to the occasion,” he said – whether facing political, economic or social problems.
“France will always seek to be on the side of liberty and human rights – always to build peace over time.”
He said he would count on the people to “deal with deep change”.
“From this very evening I will be at work. Long live the republic and long live France.”
Macron: ‘We will, together, go beyond our fears’
In his speech, Macron said he would restore France’s global standing.
“France is only strong if it’s prosperous. France is only a model for the world if it is exemplary,” he said.
“We will have given back to the French a taste for the future – and pride in what they are.
“The whole world will pay attention to what France says – because we will, together, go beyond our fears and anxieties.
“We will, together, be an example of a people that knows how to affirm their values, their principles – those of democracy and the republic.”
The new president of France has opened his term with talk of a new renaissance.
“The world needs what the French have always taught. For decades France has doubted herself.”
But, he said, the world, and Europe, need France more than ever.
“My mandate will give the French back the confidence to believe in themselves.”
He said he would convince the people that “the power of France is not declining – that we are on the brink of a great renaissance.”
With a swell of string instruments, Mr Macron enters the ballroom surrounded by his family and political friends.
Next, we’ll hear the results of the election which are read out for the record.
After a lengthy meeting, Emmanuel Macron emerges from this meeting to see off François Hollande in a modest Citreon, to much applause.
A handshake, a wave, and the presidency of Hollande is over.