Emmanuel Macron presents his vision of French foreign policy to ambassadors
Emmanuel Macron, the French president, recently gave a speech to French ambassadors gathered in Paris for the annual conference. During this event, the Head of State presented his foreign policy priorities in an international context marked by major crises, notably the war in Ukraine and the decline of democracies.
First of all, Emmanuel Macron highlighted the risk of weakening Europe and the West in the current geopolitical context. He referred to the emergence of new powers that could challenge the West’s position. In this context, the French president calls for greater European integration, or even a multi-speed Europe, in order to strengthen the position of the European Union on the international scene.
Regarding Africa, Emmanuel Macron affirmed that France should neither adopt a paternalistic attitude nor show weakness. He stressed that France must be present and engaged on the African continent, while encouraging the countries of the Sahel to adopt a responsible policy. He also expressed concern over the increase in coups in the region, particularly in Niger.
On another note, the French president announced a diplomatic initiative aimed at lifting Azerbaijan’s persistent blockade of the Lachin corridor, which is the only road linking Armenia to the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. This initiative aims to increase international pressure on Azerbaijan to ensure full respect of this humanitarian corridor.
Finally, Emmanuel Macron called for the release of the four French people detained in Iran in unacceptable conditions. He denounced this situation and stressed that there was no justification for the detention of these French nationals.
In conclusion, Emmanuel Macron’s speech to the French ambassadors highlights France’s foreign policy priorities in a complex global context. The French president emphasizes the need to strengthen the position of Europe and the West, demonstrate commitment to Africa, promote a diplomatic initiative in favor of freedom of movement in Armenia and demand the release of French people unjustly detained in Iran.