Macron Urges Reinforcing European Union at 3rd European Industry Summit 2026
On 11 February 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a passionate address urging the reinforcement of the European Union in the face of current challenges and a multipolar world. In particular, he proposed the interconnection of national grids to form a pan-European power grid and a similar integration for the fragmented telecoms networks.
Macron believes that the European Union is at a crossroads. In a nutshell, Macron called for enhancing competitiveness to compete with other giants and for the strengthening of the strategic autonomy of the European Union to counter coercive practices. The EU can decline tobecome ‘a vassal’ to other superpowers, or it can respond to a wake-up call to reindustrialize.
Among his key points, we note the following:
- Simplify the regulatory framework
- Deepen and integrate the EU single market
- Diversify import sources and export destinations
- Enable preference for local content
- Boost investment to foster innovation
Taking the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the energy sector in Europe, he believes the era of cheap Russian gas is over. He thus proposed the fostering of green energy, including nuclear, solar, and wind. France is ready to expand nuclear power generation; the Netherlands can supply more wind energy; and Spain can provide solar energy. As a replacement of Russian hydrocarbons, Macron believes that an integrated and interconnected grid would allow the generation and distribution of more green energy.
When it comes to the adoption of Electric Vehicles (#EV) as part of the #EnergyTransition, Macron advocated more #LocalContent. He notes that China has taken the lead in the production of rechargeable batteries and electric vehicles. Therefore, in exchange for opening access to the European Union single market, he proposes to motivate Chinese companies to invest in the EU to build their batteries and vehicles in line with meeting #LocalContent thresholds.
Similarly, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (#CBAM) is a cornerstone for keeping the steel industry in Europe. In particular, Arcelor Mittal would close down, if not for CBAM, as European factories would import cheaper iron and steel from China.
Comparing with US and China, Macron believes that the EU must learn from state support for building global champions. Tesla and BYD received strong support from their respective governments to be where they are today. In parallel to the #AmericaFirst policy of the Trump Administration, the European Union must have a similar #EuropeFirst policy.