PARIS (Reuters) - France has appointed Philippe Leglise-Costa as its new permanent representative to the European Union (EU), replacing Pierre Sellal in a crucial role dealing with matters such as Brexit and the EU’s budget.

The experienced Leglise-Costa was EU adviser to former Socialist President François Hollande, when current President Emmanuel Macron was deputy chief of staff.

“It’s a key position,” said government spokesman Castaner, commenting on the appointment. “He is certainly the one who knows European topics the best.”