German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron aim to present a strong Europe to the new administration in the United States. “Now that a new government has taken office in the United States, it is all the more important for the German-French tandem to fulfill its role in full” Macron said in Paris on Wednesday.
Europe must be consolidated to remain “united, strong, and sovereign” according to the French president. While the transatlantic connection must be maintained, European interests must also be defended and confirmed. “The priority of Europeans today must be focused on Europe, and consist of strengthening competitiveness, prosperity, and security, in order to strengthen our democracies and our economic and social model” Macron emphasized. There are risks of being left behind, and “we must now act” the French president said.
Scholz agreed with Macron, but also highlighted the historically good relations with the United States. “President Trump will, as is already clear, present a challenge” the German chancellor said. However, “Europe and the United States are bound together by a long history of friendship and partnership.” This “stable foundation” will be built upon.
“Trump has already made a series of decisions or announced them. We will naturally analyze them together with our European partners” Scholz announced. The stance is clear: Europe is a large economic space with around 450 million citizens. “We are strong, and we stand together” the SPD politician emphasized.
“Europe will not duck and hide, but will be a constructive and self-assured partner. On this basis, we will work well with the United States and the new American president” the chancellor was convinced. “The NATO is the central guarantor of security in Europe and in transatlantic relations.