French President Emmanuel Macron recently spoke at Sorbonne University in Paris, discussing the challenges Europe faces in terms of security, economy, and culture. In his address, Macron raised concerns about Europe being encircled by various powers both at its borders and within its own territory.
Macron highlighted that regional powers are becoming increasingly capable, with no inhibitions holding them back. He also pointed out that the current European economic model is struggling to compete with the United States and China. The French President emphasized that Europe’s values and culture are at risk as the continent is involved in a battle of narratives, values, and imagination.
It is interesting to note that this speech occurred seven years after Macron’s first address on Europe at the same university. In his earlier speech, Macron had emphasized the importance of unity within Europe and had called for greater integration between member states. This time around, he took a more critical tone, highlighting the challenges facing Europe and calling for greater action to address them.
