France has formally designated support for Ukraine as a top priority in its international partnerships. These strategic guidelines were approved by the Presidential Council, according to the French president.
The Élysée Palace released a summary of the decisions made by the Presidential Council on International Partnerships.
"The geopolitical context—marked by the return of war near our borders and the intensification of international tensions—underscores the importance of strong international partnerships that align with our values and interests, and contribute to global stability," the presidential office stated.
The French president's office emphasized that “while key partners are stepping back, France, along with its European allies, will continue to maintain a strong voice on the international stage.”
“Our agenda is the sovereignty of our country and our partners,” the statement from President Emmanuel Macron’s office added.
The council explained that France’s international partnerships are guided by a policy of:
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solidarity, especially in times of crisis,
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investment to address global challenges, and
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alliances that unite France’s diplomatic and economic interests with those of its partners.
The review of this policy was initiated by the Presidential Council on Development in May 2023. Two years later, in light of a “new geopolitical situation,” the government aims to permanently implement this paradigm shift.
"The council set the following strategic directions, which were the subject of consultations with civil society and businesses. These will be implemented by June by the competent interministerial committee under the leadership of the Prime Minister, to be applied by all relevant agencies, tools, and institutions in which France is involved," the statement said.
Amid an unprecedented rise in global crises and the retreat of key partners, France reaffirms its solidarity with the most vulnerable countries and populations, focusing its efforts “where the needs are greatest and most urgent, to contribute to global stability.”
France will also focus on countries affected by conflict and crises, providing humanitarian aid, reconstruction assistance, and macro-financial stabilization. The government will issue annual reports on its activities, particularly in crisis-affected regions.
“Given Ukraine’s immense needs and the direct threat facing Europe, France reaffirms that Ukraine is a priority,” Macron’s office concluded.
It was also noted that France’s priority goals—guiding the action and impact of its international partnerships—are to be “realized through all our instruments.”
