The French government, Renault SA's biggest shareholder, wants additional guarantees from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV in its proposal to merge the two carmakers as it seeks to avoid job cuts in France and protect national interests, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Fiat Chrysler Chairman John Elkann was in Paris over the weekend to discuss the deal, according to the sources, who asked not to be named because the talks are confidential.
He met with French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, who said last week he wants guarantees on preserving jobs, a ministry spokesman said. Fiat Chrysler, which has promised not to close plants, is open to minor adjustments to its plan, the sources said.