France has bid farewell to former prime minister Lionel Jospin, a key figure in the country's modernisation efforts, who introduced major welfare reforms during his tenure from 1997 to 2002.

France on Thursday bid farewell to former prime minister Lionel Jospin, with President Emmanuel Macron leading a national tribute to the influential left?wing statesman credited with major welfare reforms. Jospin, who introduced the 35-hour work week and civil partnerships for gay couples when he was head of government from 1997 to 2002, died on Sunday aged 88.