Macron and Merz meet in Paris to strengthen Franco-German ties
French President Emmanuel Macron and German conservative leader Friedrich Merz met in Paris for an impromptu working dinner at the Élysée Palace. The meeting marked Merz’s first international visit after his party’s victory in the German parliamentary elections, underscoring the urgency of reinforcing Franco-German cooperation at a crucial time for the European Union.
The meeting between Macron and Merz took place against the backdrop of shifting dynamics within the EU and global geopolitics. With Germany preparing for a potential leadership transition and growing uncertainty surrounding U.S. foreign policy, both leaders sought to redefine their bilateral relationship and address pressing European security concerns.
According to sources close to the meeting, the atmosphere was “exceptionally friendly”, signaling the willingness of both sides to initiate a new phase of cooperation between France and Germany. Macron has made it clear that the strength of the EU largely depends on a solid Franco-German alliance, particularly in defense, economic stability, and strategic autonomy.
Macron’s Warning on U.S. Foreign Policy and European Security
Ahead of his meeting with Merz, Macron had briefed European leaders on his recent talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington. The French president reportedly warned against signing weak agreements that could compromise European security, drawing parallels to the failed ceasefire deals in Donbas in 2014 and 2015, which were later violated by Russia.
Macron also stressed the need for Europe to strengthen its own defense capabilities, anticipating potential changes in U.S. support for Ukraine. He urged greater European autonomy in security matters, arguing that the EU can no longer afford to rely solely on NATO and the U.S. for military protection.
Merz’s Vision for Germany’s Role in Europe
Merz’s visit to Paris highlights his commitment to reinforcing Germany’s position within the EU. As he prepares to form a coalition government, likely with the Social Democrats led by Olaf Scholz, his diplomatic moves signal a strong emphasis on continuity in Germany’s European policy.
One of Merz’s key positions is enhancing European defense cooperation. Given the U.S.’s shifting stance on Ukraine, he has stressed the importance of Europe developing independent defense capabilities to ensure long-term stability.
Additionally, Merz is expected to focus on economic policies that promote growth and innovation within the EU, advocating for closer cooperation with France on major industrial projects, such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor manufacturing.
The Franco-German Alliance at a Crossroads
Macron and Merz’s discussions reflect the urgency of redefining the Franco-German alliance to adapt to the challenges of 2025 and beyond. Key areas of cooperation discussed during their meeting include:
- Defense and Security: Increasing European military capabilities to reduce dependence on NATO and address growing threats in Eastern Europe and beyond.
- Economic Growth: Strengthening EU industrial policy and technological leadership through collaborative investment in AI, green energy, and infrastructure projects.
- Institutional Reforms: Streamlining EU decision-making processes to enhance efficiency and prepare for future expansions.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger European Core?
As Merz moves toward assuming the German chancellorship, his early engagement with Macron signals a strong commitment to maintaining Germany’s leadership role within the EU. While differences in economic policies and diplomatic strategies remain, both leaders recognize that a divided Europe would be ill-equipped to navigate global uncertainties.
The coming months will reveal whether their renewed cooperation can strengthen Europe’s strategic position or whether political and economic tensions will hinder progress. One thing remains clear: Europe’s stability and security will largely depend on the strength of the Franco-German partnership.
