However, the formal relationship between the two companies – in particular cross-shareholdings between Renault and Nissan were formed many years ago – and the perceived imbalance in the power share is at the heart of political pressures and tensions that culminated in former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn's ignominious downfall. The next permanent Renault CEO has to put that relationship on a sound footing and reconsider the sensitive question of cross-shareholdings (further complicated by the influence of the French State in Renault's affairs). It is a prerequisite for discussions that might involve adding other companies to the combination for further gain. Indeed, the merger proposal from FCA to Renault included ideas for cost savings that would benefit Renault and its Alliance partners.