French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a pointed critique of U.S. economic strategies during his keynote address at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week, warning that American competition risks undermining European sovereignty. Speaking to global leaders on January 21, 2026, Macron asserted that unchecked rivalry could 'weaken and subordinate Europe' without strengthened multilateral governance frameworks.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions over transatlantic trade policies and technological leadership. 'What we're witnessing isn't healthy competition – it's a systemic challenge requiring collective solutions,' Macron told attendees, emphasizing Europe's need to assert its economic independence while maintaining strategic partnerships.
Analysts suggest this year's Davos discussions reflect growing European concerns about maintaining technological parity and supply chain resilience. The French leader's comments follow recent EU proposals for enhanced industrial cooperation mechanisms, set to be finalized before the 2026 G7 summit in June.
