French President Emmanuel Macron used his address at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos to call for greater European strategic autonomy, deeper investment in advanced technologies and a renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation, as global economic uncertainty and geopolitical competition intensify.
Speaking before political leaders, executives and policymakers, Macron outlined Europe’s ambitions to strengthen its industrial base, accelerate technological innovation and reduce dependence on external powers for critical supply chains and defence capabilities. The French leader warned that Europe must act decisively to secure its economic sovereignty in an increasingly fragmented global order.
“Europe must be able to decide for itself and protect its interests in a world where strategic competition is accelerating,” Macron said, according to a transcript released by the World Economic Forum.
Macron highlighted artificial intelligence, green technologies and advanced manufacturing as priority sectors, arguing that Europe needs sustained investment and regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation while safeguarding democratic values. He reiterated France’s push for a stronger European industrial policy, including joint defence projects and technology initiatives at the European Union level.
The French president also emphasised the importance of strengthening Europe’s defence and security capabilities, noting that reliance on foreign suppliers for critical technologies and military equipment poses strategic risks. His remarks come amid ongoing debates within the EU over defence spending, technological sovereignty and reliance on the United States and China for key components such as semiconductors and rare earth materials.
Addressing the broader global economy, Macron called for renewed multilateral cooperation, warning against rising protectionism and economic fragmentation. He urged major economies to uphold a rules-based international trading system and collaborate on climate action, digital governance and global financial stability.
“We need more cooperation, not less, at a time when climate change, technological disruption and geopolitical tensions demand collective solutions,” Macron said during his Davos appearance.
Macron also reaffirmed France’s commitment to climate goals and innovation-driven growth, stressing that economic competitiveness and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand. He pointed to Europe’s Green Deal and investment in clean energy as examples of how industrial transformation can align with climate commitments.
Observers say Macron’s speech reflects broader European efforts to assert leadership in global economic and security debates, particularly as U.S. foreign policy priorities evolve and China expands its technological and geopolitical influence. Analysts note that Europe is increasingly seeking to position itself as a third strategic pole in a multipolar world order.
The World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos has served as a platform for world leaders to discuss global economic trends, geopolitical risks and technological transformation. Macron’s intervention underscores Europe’s push to shape global governance frameworks while reinforcing its economic and strategic independence.
Sources:
- World Economic Forum (WEF), Davos Annual Meeting official transcripts and session summaries
- Reuters, “Macron calls for European strategic autonomy and industrial sovereignty at Davos”
- Financial Times and Associated Press coverage of Macron’s Davos address
