Today at 12:02
French President Emmanuel Macron said support for Ukraine, European security, and closer defense cooperation will be among the main topics of his meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during the Franco-German intergovernmental council, UATV English reports.
Speaking ahead of the talks in Bensberg, Germany, Macron said the leaders would review key international issues, including continued support for Ukraine, peace and security in Europe, and the situation in the Middle East.
The French president also recalled the Bastille Day military parade in Paris on July 14, highlighting the participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, members of the Coalition of the Willing, and coalition troops marching alongside French forces.
Macron said the event symbolized a stronger and more strategically united Europe.
He added that France and Germany intend to give fresh momentum to bilateral and European cooperation in defense, including extended deterrence, early warning capabilities, long-range strike systems, and joint military capabilities.
The two countries also plan to deepen cooperation in space, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and energy, Macron said.
Macron and Merz are scheduled to hold a meeting of the Franco-German Defense and Security Council, followed by the 26th session of the Franco-German Council of Ministers.
