Macron Calls on Europe to Assert Itself as Global Power Ahead of EU Summit
Feb 10, 2026: French President Emmanuel Macron has urged European nations to take a more assertive role on the global stage, arguing that the European Union must begin acting as a genuine world power amid mounting geopolitical and economic challenges.
Speaking to a group of European newspapers ahead of an EU summit in Brussels later this week, Macron described the current moment as a “wake-up call” for the continent, citing growing pressure from China, Russia and what he portrayed as a more unpredictable United States.
“Are we ready to become a power?” Macron asked, saying the question applies to Europe’s economy, financial systems, defence capabilities, security arrangements and democratic resilience. He suggested that while Europe once focused on integration and market-building, it had long avoided fully embracing the idea of geopolitical power.
Push for Shared European Debt
Macron reiterated his long-standing proposal for EU-wide shared borrowing, arguing that Europe needs to mobilise hundreds of billions of euros annually to remain competitive. He called for the creation of common debt instruments, often referred to as eurobonds, to fund major investments in strategic sectors.
“The time has come to launch a shared debt capacity to finance our future needs,” Macron said, calling for large-scale European programmes to support industry, defence, clean energy and artificial intelligence.
According to the French president, the EU requires approximately €1.2 trillion per year to adequately invest in these priority areas. He argued that global financial markets are increasingly seeking alternatives to the US dollar and that Europe could benefit from offering a stable, democratic investment option.
Acknowledging Economic Differences
Macron acknowledged that similar proposals have previously faced resistance, particularly from Germany and some northern European countries, which have expressed concerns about shared financial liabilities.
He also conceded that France itself has struggled with long-term economic balance, contrasting it with reforms implemented in countries such as Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece during the past decade. However, he maintained that collective European investment is necessary to meet future challenges.
Security, Trade and Global Competition
Addressing global competition, Macron said Europe must better protect key industries while remaining open to trade. He pointed to industrial policies in China and the United States as examples of how major powers safeguard strategic sectors.
“Europe is the most open market in the world,” he said, adding that the goal should not be protectionism but fairness, ensuring that European producers are not subject to stricter rules than their international competitors.
Macron also highlighted broader security concerns, including climate change, shifting US security commitments, the loss of Russian energy supplies and China’s growing global influence.
Warning Against Complacency
Referring to recent tensions with Washington, including disputes related to Greenland, Macron cautioned European leaders against assuming that easing tensions mean lasting stability.
“There is often a temptation to relax once a crisis seems to pass,” he said, warning that underlying strategic challenges remain unresolved.
Despite the risks, Macron struck an optimistic note, emphasizing the EU’s scale and potential. With a population of around 450 million, he said Europe has the capacity to shape its own future if it chooses to act collectively.
“We came together to prevent war and to build a common market,” he said. “Now the question is whether we are prepared to fully assume our role in the world.”
