REPLAY - Discours d'Emmanuel Macron : "Nous sommes dans un monde qui se dérègle" • FRANCE 24

Conference of Ambassadors: Emmanuel Macron's Address

Introduction and Context

• Emmanuel Macron addresses representatives of French diplomacy during a special edition on France 24, emphasizing the importance of their roles.

• He expresses gratitude for their presence and acknowledges recent changes in scheduling by the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Acknowledgments and Format Change

• Macron extends his best wishes to ambassadors, their families, and collaborators working in various embassies worldwide.

• This year, he opts for a shorter address instead of a lengthy speech covering all global issues, introducing three key thematic roundtables instead.

Key Themes for Discussion

• The main topics include European questions, Africa (with an upcoming summit), G7 discussions, and BRICS nations.

• He reassures attendees that this address will be brief compared to previous years while still conveying essential convictions.

Observations on Global Dynamics

• Macron reflects on the current state of the world, noting that multilateral institutions are increasingly ineffective.

• He highlights the rise of great powers with competing interests; particularly mentioning the U.S. distancing from allies and China's aggressive commercial stance post-COVID.

Risks to International Order

• The weakening of international cooperation mechanisms poses significant risks; he cites Russia's actions in Ukraine as destabilizing influences alongside other geopolitical tensions.

• Macron warns against potential erosion of European influence amidst rising authoritarianism and neocolonial attitudes from certain nations.

Call for Resilience and Action

• He emphasizes the need for Europe to remain a bastion of rules-based order amid increasing brutality in international relations.

• Macron critiques both passive acceptance ("vassalization") and moralistic impotence as inadequate responses to current challenges.

Vision for France and Europe

• He advocates for unity among European nations as crucial to countering global instability effectively.

• The focus should be on strengthening France’s position globally while defending its interests within an increasingly complex international landscape.

Diplomatic Action in a Changing World

The Role of Diplomacy and Strategic Independence

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of taking action rather than lamenting the state of the world, highlighting that both diplomats and leaders must engage proactively.

• Acknowledges strategic military independence as a significant asset, asserting that Europe has been rearming ahead of others, which strengthens its position.

• Points out the necessity to adapt habits and improve strategies pragmatically to defend European interests effectively in current global dynamics.

Defending Interests Amidst Conflict

• The primary interest is identified as peace and security, particularly in light of Russian aggression towards Ukraine, which poses a fundamental challenge for Europe.

• Highlights collective actions taken recently, such as support for Ukraine through coalitions with allies like the U.S., showcasing effective international collaboration.

• Stresses that all financial aid to Ukraine comes from coalition members, emphasizing Europe's role in supporting Ukrainian resistance against aggression.

Coalition Dynamics and Strategic Revolution

• Reflecting on past uncertainties regarding U.S. support for Ukraine, the speaker notes how recent coalitions have solidified European resolve and capability.

• Recognizes contributions from countries like Norway, the UK, and Canada during recent meetings in Paris to strengthen collective defense efforts.

• Discusses building security guarantees for post-conflict scenarios as part of a broader strategic shift within Europe.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Strategies

• Emphasizes that diplomatic efforts must prioritize European interests without compromising on key issues like Ukrainian sovereignty or security concerns.

• Notes that while peace is desired, ongoing military efforts are necessary due to Russia's lack of genuine commitment to peace negotiations.

Advancements in European Defense Initiatives

• Highlights significant progress made since 2022 regarding European defense autonomy; this includes overcoming previous hesitations about discussing defense cooperation openly.

• Describes how recent developments have led to concrete actions within European defense frameworks established during France's EU presidency.

Defense Strategy and Economic Interests

European Defense Capacity and Innovation

• The speaker emphasizes the need for a collective European approach to defense, urging military forces, the DGA, and defense industries to think beyond national perspectives.

• There is a call for increased innovation in European defense technology to reduce reliance on American systems and enhance autonomy.

• The importance of economic interests is highlighted, particularly in light of aggressive Chinese policies and American tariffs affecting trade dynamics.

Challenges with China and the U.S.

• The speaker points out that even countries with trade surpluses with China are facing deficits, indicating a broader economic challenge.

• Germany's recent shift from surplus to deficit with China is noted as an example of this trend, alongside job losses attributed to Chinese competitiveness.

• The urgency of addressing these issues is underscored by referencing outdated reports that fail to account for rapid changes in global economics.

Protectionism vs. Protection

• A distinction is made between protectionism and necessary protective measures against unfair competition; Europe must assert itself as an industrial power rather than just a market.

• Recent shifts in the European Commission's agenda towards protecting local industries are seen as positive developments that need further acceleration.

Regulatory Changes and Market Dynamics

• The necessity for Europe to better protect its borders while fostering local industry is emphasized; current regulations may hinder domestic producers' competitiveness against foreign markets.

• There's a critique of Europe's regulatory environment which overly restricts local actors without providing adequate protection from external competitors.

Strategic Investment in Innovation

• The speaker advocates for viewing Europe not merely as a market but as a significant commercial power that needs robust agreements reflecting its size and influence.

• Urgent action is required to prevent massive deindustrialization within Europe; investment strategies should focus on innovation across various sectors including AI, quantum technologies, space exploration, and green technologies.

• Emphasis on increasing public and private investment in innovation is crucial for maintaining competitive advantages against global powers.

Diplomatic Agenda and Economic Strategy

Importance of Economic Diplomacy

• The speaker emphasizes the need to promote a diplomatic agenda in Brussels and European capitals, urging for concrete actions to enhance economic diplomacy across Europe.

• Highlights the issue of under-investment in certain regions of Europe, stressing the importance of accelerating investments and partnerships to strengthen industrial and economic presence.

Democratic Values and Protection

• Discusses the necessity of an intellectual democratic agenda amidst global disorder, focusing on protecting children and youth from authoritarian regimes and algorithmic control.

• Advocates for maintaining academic independence, scientific freedom, and a controlled informational space where diverse opinions can be freely exchanged without algorithmic bias.

Regulatory Frameworks

• Stresses the significance of defending regulations like DSA (Digital Services Act) and DMA (Digital Markets Act), which are crucial for upholding democratic values within Europe.

• Reiterates that security, military interests, economic strategies, technological advancements, and democratic integrity form the core pillars of France's diplomatic agenda.

Influence in a Disordered World

Strategic Partnerships

• The speaker underscores the importance of consolidating partnerships in response to aggressive global powers while emphasizing action over mere rhetoric.

• Introduces the "coalition of volunteers" as a strategic defense partnership that extends beyond NATO commitments, aiming for enhanced security collaboration among European nations.

Indo-Pacific Partnerships

• Describes efforts made since 2018 to establish strong partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region with countries like India, Indonesia, Australia focused on defense, AI technology, economy, climate change.

• Emphasizes a balanced approach that respects sovereignty while building new alliances without falling into vassalage or confrontation.

Strengthening Mediterranean Relations

Diplomatic Engagement

• Calls attention to ongoing challenges but highlights solid friendships with Egypt and Lebanon as key components of France's diplomatic strategy in the Mediterranean region.

• Notes France's commitment to supporting Lebanese armed forces economically while fostering strong ties with Morocco through effective diplomacy.

Recognition Initiatives

• Mentions France’s recognition of Palestine as part of its broader Middle Eastern strategy aimed at restoring credibility amid regional tensions.

• Concludes by affirming potential stability through strategic partnerships with Gulf nations while reiterating Africa as another critical area for future investment.

Partnerships and Strategic Shifts in Africa

Reimagining Military Partnerships

• The software of partnerships has been completely overhauled since the Wagadou speech, emphasizing an equal partnership approach.

• A new military partnership has been established that is relevant and effective, focusing on themes like entrepreneurship, youth engagement, cultural industries, and sports.

Diaspora Engagement and Future Goals

• Mobilizing diasporas is crucial for a more ambitious policy by 2026, with significant events planned such as the upcoming summit in Néro.

• The summit aims to embody a revolutionary approach to partnerships centered around African actors in various sectors.

Strengthening African Partnerships

• Highlighting relationships with countries like Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya showcases the importance of these partnerships amid ongoing crises in regions like Sudan.

• The strategy for 2026 prioritizes African partnerships to enhance influence and credibility through diplomatic choices made over recent years.

Economic Involvement Challenges

• There is a call for increased economic involvement from French groups in Africa; however, many have disinvested from the continent despite improved diplomatic relations.

• Acknowledgment of past financial strength in Africa contrasts with current challenges due to regulatory issues leading to disinvestment.

Narrative Control and Diplomacy

• Emphasizing the need for France to defend its interests against misinformation campaigns that undermine its actions abroad.

• A strong focus on combating disinformation is essential for maintaining France's influence globally while addressing internal hesitations among French actors about defending national interests.

Economic Diplomacy Enhancement

• Reinforcement of economic diplomacy is necessary; there’s a push for a more proactive agenda regarding sovereignty and diversification of supply chains.

• Calls for revisiting strategies related to international partnerships reflect an understanding of evolving global contexts.

International Cooperation and Multilateralism

Acknowledgment of Business France's Efforts

• The speaker commends the work of Business France and its partners, highlighting their remarkable contributions to enhancing attractiveness and export results in recent years.

Importance of Multilateralism

• The speaker raises a critical question about the future of multilateralism in a world increasingly dominated by power dynamics.

• Emphasizes the belief that defending multilateralism is essential for maximizing influence and interests on a global scale.

Achievements in Diplomacy

• Highlights successful French diplomacy, including hosting an international summit on artificial intelligence, which attracted global participation.

• Mentions upcoming engagements with India to further develop an effective multilateral agenda focused on AI innovation and regulation.

Treaties and Environmental Initiatives

• Celebrates the signing of a long-awaited treaty regulating high seas, attributing its success to collective diplomatic efforts.

• Discusses alliances formed for marine protection and biodiversity conservation as part of an effective multilateral strategy.

Future Directions for Multilateral Engagement

• Stresses the need for respectful engagement with nations seeking recognition within the global order while advocating for clear rules against dominance by powerful states.

• Outlines plans to strengthen climate action initiatives, particularly regarding biodiversity and plastic pollution management.

Health Initiatives and Global Cooperation

• Plans to consolidate health strategies at an upcoming summit in Lyon, emphasizing collaboration amidst challenges faced by organizations like WHO.

G7 Presidency Goals

• The French presidency of the G7 aims to address global imbalances through cooperative responses to macroeconomic challenges.

Global Economic Challenges and the Role of G7

Understanding Current Global Disparities

• The ongoing global conflicts are linked to economic imbalances, particularly the U.S. twin deficits—trade and budgetary—and insufficient investment in Europe, alongside China's low domestic consumption.

• A cooperative approach is essential to address these disparities; resorting to trade wars or overproduction will not resolve the issues at hand.

Strategies for Cooperation

• Efforts are being made to foster intellectual and political convergence among partners, aiming for cooperative solutions that encourage China to increase domestic consumption and invest in key European technologies.

• Engaging the U.S. in dismantling its tariff policies is crucial, demonstrating mutual benefits from foreign direct investments while promoting a unified European investment strategy.

Avoiding Global Fragmentation

• It is vital to prevent the G7 from becoming an anti-China coalition or allowing BRICS nations to form an opposing bloc against it; this scenario would lead to greater global division.

• India’s presidency of BRICS presents an opportunity for creating a common agenda that fosters cooperation rather than conflict among major economies.

Rebuilding Multilateralism

• The G7 must serve as a tool for addressing macroeconomic imbalances globally, focusing on payment systems and monetary issues without losing sight of broader themes like security and development aid.

Security Instruments Crisis

• There is a pressing need to revitalize multilateral security frameworks, especially given current crises affecting peacekeeping operations; France and Europe have both credibility and historical context necessary for this task.

Development Aid Challenges

• A significant crisis exists in public development aid due to reduced American involvement and financial strains on Western nations; innovative solutions are required rather than passive acceptance of these challenges.

International Governance Issues

• Despite current global disorder, there is an imperative moment for reinvesting in international governance structures like the United Nations, which can help restore order amidst rising tensions over territorial disputes (e.g., Greenland, Canada).

Reflections on International Governance and France's Role

Concerns About Shareholder Confidence

• The first shareholder has lost faith, while the second remains partially engaged, raising concerns about international respect and governance. This uncertainty is troubling for many involved.

The Role of French Diplomacy

• There is a critique that French diplomacy is being reduced to mere commentary on global actions rather than taking decisive action. The expectation to denounce wrongdoings daily is seen as counterproductive.

Call for Action Over Commentary

• Emphasizing the need for proactive engagement, the speaker argues against merely observing global issues; instead, they advocate for intelligent responses to wrongdoing when necessary. If no response can be made, attention should shift elsewhere.

Advocacy for Global Governance Reform

• A significant focus is placed on reforming global governance structures, particularly in light of current challenges faced by emerging nations within international frameworks like the UN. This reform is deemed essential to prevent world fragmentation.

Recognition of Diplomatic Efforts

• Gratitude is expressed towards ambassadors working under challenging conditions in conflict zones or unstable regions, highlighting their crucial role in maintaining diplomatic relations and efforts amidst adversity.

Encouragement Against Defeatism

• A strong message encourages confidence in ongoing efforts despite external criticisms and challenges faced over recent years; it asserts that progress has been made towards strategic autonomy and reducing dependencies on major powers like the U.S. and China.

Commitment to Strategic Interests

• The speaker emphasizes France's commitment to military, technological, economic, and scientific strength while advocating for inclusive globalization that fosters new partnerships aimed at collaborative solutions. This approach aims to counteract rising global tensions effectively.

Urgency in Response to Global Challenges

• In light of increasing aggression globally, there’s an urgent call not to succumb to despair but rather accelerate efforts toward achieving set agendas and goals through coalitions and partnerships established previously.

Upholding France's Values

• France’s reputation as a reliable partner committed to its promises is underscored; this reliability stands out even when facing larger adversaries or pressures from other nations—emphasizing a refusal of neo-colonialism or defeatism while striving for strong partnerships globally.

Final Thoughts on Engagement

• The closing remarks reinforce the importance of defending these values actively within diplomatic circles; it stresses that commitment must translate into tangible actions whenever engagements are made internationally.