The Hague: French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday criticized the notion of waging a trade war within NATO, describing it as an "aberration" and advocating for the reduction of tariff barriers among allies. Macron's remarks were made during a press briefing at the conclusion of the NATO summit held in The Hague.
According to Anadolu Agency, Macron emphasized the importance of allies engaging in "real trade" and highlighted that internal trade conflicts contradict the pledges made by NATO members to enhance defense spending. He underscored the need for a unified approach, pointing out the commitment of NATO allies to allocate 5% of their GDP annually by 2035 to address both core defense requirements and wider security concerns.
Macron reiterated his vision for a Europe that invests more in its defense capabilities, seeking to become less reliant on external powers for its security. He emphasized the value of the broader NATO alliance in providing collective strength and resilience, while also urging Europe to fortify its own defense mechanisms.
Addressing the disparity between European military capabilities and those of Russia, Macron called for increased armament within the bloc, reiterating that Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine remain a significant concern for NATO members. He advocated for a future security framework that limits proliferation and regulates armament, drawing parallels to Cold War-era agreements.
On the topic of Middle Eastern tensions, particularly between Iran and Israel, Macron described the existing ceasefire as "volatile" and "fragile." He stressed the necessity of resuming diplomatic efforts concerning Iran's nuclear program, with a role for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in this process. Macron mentioned the possibility of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) serving as a framework for future negotiations, despite the United States' withdrawal from the agreement in 2018.
Macron also proposed the implementation of three simultaneous ceasefires, prioritizing the one between Israel and Iran, the conflict in Gaza, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine, with the goal of initiating peace negotiations.