Macron names the only path to Europe's salvation

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that strengthening European sovereignty has become critically important for the continent's future.

According to him, over nine years the idea of a "sovereign Europe" has gone from a political concept that many considered unrealistic to a common goal of the European Union.

"European sovereignty, which some considered impossible or illusory, has become a reality and our greatest strength. Today it is needed more than ever before. This is our only path to salvation," Macron wrote on the social network X.

The French leader noted that Europe must be able to determine its policy independently and respond more quickly to technological and geopolitical changes, including amid competition with the United States and China.

Macron also listed among the EU's achievements joint actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, support for Ukraine, the strengthening of defense capabilities, the reduction of energy dependence, and the development of industry, the space sector, and artificial intelligence technologies.

Macron set out the idea of European sovereignty in detail back in his speech at the Sorbonne in 2017. At that time, he called for a more independent Europe in matters of defense, the economy, border protection, and democratic institutions.