Macron calls for strengthening Europeans' defence sovereignty

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the need to strengthen the sovereignty of European defence policy.

Speaking at the French Armed Forces' Cyber Command base in Cesson-Sévigné (a suburb of Rennes) on January 21, during his traditional New Year's wishes to military personnel, the president stressed the importance of defence sovereignty even with "such a magnificent ally as the United States," Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

"Who can tell us that in 10-15 years, their priority won’t shift more towards China or the Asia-Pacific region?" said the president.

"Our mission is not to be clients, but sovereign nations in Europe," Macron underlined.

Regarding NATO's role, the president noted that "France believes in NATO's strength," especially "because it is a space for natural cooperation with the United States, as long as they remain committed to European security."

However, Macron did not rule out the possibility of a shift in US defence strategy and reiterated his call: "Let’s turn this need for autonomy into an opportunity for a European strategic awakening."

In general, French President Emmanuel Macron has consistently advocated for a more sovereign European defence policy, emphasizing the need for Europe to reduce its reliance on the United States and enhance its own military capabilities.

In early 2024, during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, Macron reiterated his vision for a more sovereign Europe, focusing on defence, clean energy generation, and essential technologies. He stressed that Europe must transition towards greater sovereignty in these areas, aiming to create more well-paid jobs and reduce dependence on external sources for energy and critical technologies.

By Khagan Isayev