OUR France and Germany announced today, on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Franco-German Cooperation Treaty, that they will intensify their efforts “to strengthen the sovereignty of the European Union”. To this end, they will strengthen cooperation on foreign policy and defense issues and develop joint strategies in the areas of industry, technology and energy, according to a joint statement.

During a joint press conference held by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, they stressed that they unconditionally condemn Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and express their common will to help Ukraine in the political, defense, economic and humanitarian spheres. The French president did not rule out that France would send Leclerc tanks to Ukraine, and the German chancellor did not allow her country to provide Leopard tanks to Kyiv.

In the field of defense strategy, the governments of France and Germany say that NATO remains the litmus test for Euro-Atlantic defense and security. However, at the same time, both leaders emphasized the need for Europe to develop its own defense capabilities in order to be able to defend its interests.

The two countries also declare their readiness to strengthen the convergence of national defense and security strategies.

On the issue of EU enlargement, Berlin and Paris emphasize that they are in favor of a European perspective on the Balkans. However, they point to the need to resolve existing differences, starting with the differences between Serbia and Kosovo.

On energy issues, both countries say they will intensify their efforts to achieve goals related to protecting the environment and combating climate change. They also highlight the need to show solidarity on energy issues and increase their investment in renewable energy. Special mention is made of the need to increase energy production from hydrogen.

In economic matters, France and Germany will take steps to create the concept of a capital market in Europe, as well as to create a banking union.

Referring to the US law on increasing national production, Macron and Scholz said that France and Germany will develop a common position regarding Europe’s response to an increase in its own industrial production. Both countries also say they are ready to take all necessary measures to ensure the sustainability of their debt and the consolidation of public finances.

Finally, in view of the following enlargements, France and Germany consider it necessary to change the European institutions, starting with the abolition of unanimity in the field of foreign policy and taxation. They also emphasize that the EU is a community based on common principles and values ​​that must be protected. These principles are democracy and the rule of law, among other things they state.

Source: APE/MEB