How Macron’s return as French president could be a win for both the EU and China
- Macron has been championing ‘strategic autonomy’ for the European Union at a time when the need for the EU to come into its own as an independent force for peace and international cooperation is greater than ever
- His stance on China seems to be pragmatic and pro-business, recognising the possibility of working closely with Beijing on shared interests, despite competition in some areas
In his second term, the French president will play a pivotal role in shaping foreign policy at a critical juncture for the European Union. Ukraine will no doubt dominate the agenda for some time, but how the EU recalibrates ties with Beijing and navigates the increasingly tense and complex US-China relationship remains a crucial question.
The outcome is preferable to a Le Pen victory. That would have cast doubt over France’s role in Europe and the whole EU project at a time when the bloc needs a strong leader.
Since taking power, Macron has been vocal about his ambitions for the EU, which has long punched below its weight in the international sphere, to become a more independent and influential geopolitical player. Ukraine is a serious test for his push for EU “strategic autonomy” as it has turned concerns to security at home and reinvigorated the transatlantic alliance.
In this age of geopolitical uncertainty, the need for the EU to come into its own as an independent force for peace and international cooperation is greater than ever.
Addressing the European Parliament on January 19, Macron spoke repeatedly of the need for the EU to be a “balancing power”. He has cautioned the EU against rushing to join the United States in ganging up on China as it could lead to the “highest possible” conflict.
Reforming multilateralism is another shared interest. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, we badly need to update and strengthen our global institutions. For example, China and the EU could boost efforts to forge consensus on reforming the World Trade Organization and develop a workable plan to revive the organisation.
Macron’s second term begins at a time when security is increasingly winning out over economics as the driving logic of international cooperation. But as the history of the EU shows, economic cooperation is often the best foundation for both growth and security.
During the next five years, Macron should use his mandate to help chart an independent, pragmatic course for the EU that fulfils its potential to be a stabilising force for peace and prosperity during these times of uncertainty.
Wang Huiyao is the founder of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a Beijing-based non-governmental think tank