REPLAY: French President Macron addresses diplomatic corps • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Multilateralism: The principle of international cooperation and the strengthening of international institutions.
• Strategic Autonomy: The ability of Europe (and France specifically) to act independently in defense, technology, and economics, reducing reliance on other powers.
• Coalition of the Willing: A group of countries formed to support Ukraine, bypassing traditional institutional frameworks.
• De-industrialization: The decline of manufacturing and industrial activity in Europe, particularly due to unfair trade practices.
• Rebalancing Partnerships: Shifting away from traditional colonial relationships towards partnerships based on equality and mutual benefit, particularly in Africa.
• Geopolitical Imbalance: The current state of international relations characterized by rising powers (China), declining influence of established powers (US), and destabilizing actors (Russia, Iran).
• Economic Sovereignty: Protecting European economic interests through measures like trade protection and industrial policy.

The Current International Order & French Response

The speaker outlines a deeply unbalanced world order, characterized by the undermining of multilateralism and the rise of powers seeking to divide the world. He identifies the US as a power gradually withdrawing from its commitments and established rules, and China as a rising power employing increasingly aggressive trade policies that harm the European economy. Destabilizing forces like Russia and Iran further complicate the landscape. This context, coupled with the weakening of international institutions, creates a world where “might is right.” However, the speaker argues that Europe remains a crucial forum for reaffirming values and rules.

He acknowledges the tension between hearing “anti-colonial rhetoric” and witnessing “neo-colonial aggressiveness” from other actors, emphasizing the importance of consistent action and determination. He explicitly rejects two approaches: becoming a vassal state to major powers, or passively accepting the current state of affairs. Instead, he advocates for strengthening Europe, defending its interests, and promoting effective multilateralism. “We are not here to lament or to comment on the state of the world. We are here to take action.”

Ukraine & The Coalition of the Willing

The war in Ukraine is presented as a fundamental threat to peace and security. The speaker highlights the success of the “Coalition of the Willing” – initiated by France – as a demonstration of European agency and the ability to act decisively, even without full US support. He emphasizes that all financial aid to Ukraine currently comes from this coalition (Norway, UK, Canada, and European nations).

He recounts the February meeting in the Oval Office as a catalyst for launching the coalition, demonstrating a proactive response to potential US disengagement. The coalition is not merely about providing aid, but about building “security guarantees for a post-war Ukraine.” While acknowledging US diplomatic efforts, he stresses the need to ensure European interests are protected, and explicitly states that sacrificing Ukrainian territory is unacceptable. He notes Russia’s apparent lack of genuine interest in peace despite diplomatic overtures. This initiative represents a “strategic and capacity-based revolution.”

European Defense & Strategic Autonomy

The speaker champions the development of a stronger, more autonomous European defense capability. He notes that initial discussions about European defense were met with skepticism, particularly regarding NATO, but that progress has been made since 2022, driven by the French presidency of the European Council.

Key steps include a defense summit in March of last year, the publication of white papers, and the implementation of financial instruments prioritizing European procurement. He urges military leaders to adopt a “think Europe, not just French” mindset. This push for autonomy is not about replacing NATO, but about complementing it and ensuring Europe can act independently when necessary. He emphasizes the need for innovation, technology, and increased profitability for European companies.

Economic Challenges & Protecting European Interests

The speaker identifies a dual economic challenge: Chinese aggressiveness and unexpected US tariffs. He points to Germany’s loss of 50,000 industrial jobs to China as evidence of the problem. He argues that the Draghi report, intended to address these issues, is already outdated due to the accelerating pace of Chinese industrial expansion.

He advocates for a shift towards “protection,” clarifying that this is not protectionism but a necessary defense of European trade and industrial power. He notes a conceptual revolution occurring within the EU, with the European Commission now using similar language regarding protection. He calls for safeguarding clauses and mirror clauses to ensure fair trade practices and protect European producers. He stresses that Europe must be viewed not just as a market, but as a trade power of 450 million consumers. He emphasizes the need for simplification, competitiveness, and increased investment in innovation (AI, quantum, space, green tech) to reduce dependence on the US and bolster European economic strength.

Democratic Values & Fighting Disinformation

The speaker highlights the need to defend democratic values in a world facing both authoritarianism and the manipulation of algorithms. He emphasizes protecting youth, academic freedom, and a well-managed information space. He calls for consolidating a “European shield” under the European Commission to combat disinformation, noting that many French actors are failing to defend the French narrative. He acknowledges the use of “anti-colonial rhetoric” by new colonial powers to advance their agendas. He stresses the importance of economic diplomacy and revising existing methods to better defend European interests.

Partnerships & Rebalancing Global Relations

The speaker emphasizes the importance of partnerships, but advocates for a rebalancing of relationships. He highlights the success of the Indo-Pacific strategy, built on partnerships with India, Indonesia, Australia, and others who reject vassalage. He stresses the need to respect sovereignty and create new alliances.

He details a new approach to Africa, moving away from traditional colonial relationships towards partnerships based on equality. He points to successes in military cooperation, youth engagement, cultural exchange, and mobilizing the diaspora. He announces plans for a Nairobi summit in 2026, inviting Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Scholz to demonstrate this new approach. He calls for increased French investment in Africa, particularly from startups and SMEs.

He also emphasizes the importance of strengthening partnerships in the Mediterranean region, citing positive relationships with Egypt, Lebanon, and Morocco, and the significance of recognizing the state of Palestine.

Multilateralism & International Governance Reform

Despite the challenges to multilateralism, the speaker remains a staunch advocate for the system. He points to France’s success in hosting summits on AI and oceans, and in ratifying the treaty for the regulation of the high seas as evidence of the value of multilateral cooperation.

He argues that the current geopolitical imbalances – US deficits, European underinvestment, and Chinese production imbalances – require cooperative solutions. He warns against a tariff war or overproduction. He proposes encouraging China to increase domestic consumption and Europe to increase investment. He stresses the need to reform international governance, particularly in light of declining US engagement, and calls for France and Europe to take a leading role in this effort. He specifically mentions the need to revitalize the United Nations and defend its values.

Conclusion

The speaker concludes with a call to action, urging ambassadors, directors, and ministers to be proud of past achievements and determined to overcome future challenges. He reiterates France’s commitment to its values – respect for allies, reliability, and a refusal to accept vassalage or defeatism. He emphasizes that France is a nation that delivers on its commitments and deserves respect on the world stage. The overarching message is one of proactive engagement, strategic autonomy, and a renewed commitment to defending European interests and values in a turbulent world.