French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel are set to meet in Paris for Armistice Day events, and one of the topics likely to be on the agenda is Donald Trump’s surprise victory in the US Presidential election.
Macron and Merkel have both expressed concerns about Trump’s election and his policies in the past. Macron has been critical of Trump’s “America First” approach, which he believes threatens international cooperation and multilateralism. Merkel, on the other hand, has clashed with Trump on issues such as trade, climate change, and NATO funding.
The two leaders are likely to discuss the implications of Trump’s election win for Europe and the transatlantic relationship. Macron has called for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense and security, as he believes that the US under Trump cannot be relied upon as a reliable partner. Merkel, on the other hand, has stressed the importance of maintaining a strong transatlantic alliance, while also acknowledging the need for Europe to step up its defense capabilities.
One of the key issues that Macron and Merkel will likely address is the impact of Trump’s election on the global order. Trump’s “America First” policies have raised concerns about the future of international institutions such as the United Nations, NATO, and the World Trade Organization. Macron and Merkel will likely discuss how Europe can respond to these challenges and uphold the principles of multilateralism and international cooperation.
Another topic of discussion is likely to be the future of the Iran nuclear deal. Trump’s decision to withdraw from the agreement has strained relations between the US and its European allies, who are committed to upholding the deal. Macron and Merkel will likely discuss how they can work together to salvage the agreement and prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
In addition to discussing Trump’s election win, Macron and Merkel are also likely to address other pressing issues facing Europe and the world. These may include Brexit, the rise of populism and nationalism, the refugee crisis, and climate change. Macron and Merkel have both been strong advocates for a united and integrated Europe, and they will likely discuss how they can work together to address these challenges and promote European unity.
The meeting between Macron and Merkel comes at a critical time for Europe, as the continent grapples with a number of internal and external challenges. The rise of populist and nationalist movements in countries such as Italy, Hungary, and Poland has raised concerns about the future of the European Union. At the same time, Europe is facing growing security threats from Russia, terrorism, and cyber attacks.
Macron and Merkel have both been leading voices in Europe for a more united and integrated continent. Macron has called for deeper European integration, including the creation of a European army and a common eurozone budget. Merkel, meanwhile, has stressed the importance of upholding European values and principles in the face of rising nationalism and populism.
The meeting between Macron and Merkel is also significant in light of the upcoming European Parliament elections in May 2019. The elections will be a key test of the strength of pro-European forces in Europe, as well as a referendum on the future direction of the European Union. Macron and Merkel will likely discuss how they can work together to combat the rise of populist and nationalist movements in Europe and promote a vision of a united and integrated continent.
In conclusion, the meeting between Macron and Merkel in Paris is likely to be a crucial moment for Europe as the continent grapples with a number of internal and external challenges. The two leaders will likely discuss the implications of Trump’s election win for Europe, as well as other pressing issues facing the continent. Their discussions will be watched closely by European leaders and citizens alike, as they seek to navigate a rapidly changing and uncertain world.