Significantly, Macron chose the Sorbonne to deliver his vision for the European Union, just as he did seven years ago in September 2017, where he proposed a series of initiatives aimed at reinvigorating the EU. His proposals covered European security, immigration, relationships with the United States and African countries, sustainable development, digital regulation, and economic matters, advocating for a common European intervention force, a joint defense budget, and a unified action doctrine.

Since then, Macron has faced a series of crises including the Yellow Vest protests, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia's aggressive actions against Ukraine and its severe repercussions, including inflation challenges within France. Nonetheless, his vision spurred EU integration, with increased attention to the rule of law and an enhanced role for the European Parliament. Although not all of Macron's proposals were realized, a stronger Europe is clearly on the horizon.

Macron, now one of the EU's most influential figures, delivered his speech amidst significant interest. With German Chancellor Olaf Scholz preoccupied with domestic and economic challenges, fewer leaders are actively engaged with EU affairs. Macron's commitment to the EU was evident, despite less enthusiasm from French opposition MEPs due to a clash with European Parliament sessions in Strasbourg.

Breaking Free from Russia

Acknowledging unfulfilled aspirations from his proposals seven years ago, Macron highlighted successes, particularly in unity and European sovereignty. He praised the EU’s financial solidarity during the pandemic, the EU recovery fund which implied collective borrowing—a French initiative—and the unified stance against Russian aggression. "Who would have imagined our capability to detach from Russian hydrocarbons and rapidly reform our electricity market?" Macron pointed out.

Among the achievements, he included the Green Deal and the EU's expansion plan, which recognizes Ukraine and Moldova as part of the European family, promising future inclusion similar to the Western Balkan states.

However, Macron warned of significant threats to the EU, suggesting that without critical steps, the common European project could perish. He emphasized the importance of guaranteeing Europe's security, facilitating major transformations, regulating artificial intelligence, and enhancing environmental protection, marking a critical juncture facing severe challenges.

A Unified Defense Strategy without a Single Army

The realization of European sovereignty, Macron argued, is vital, necessitated by geopolitical, security, and cultural factors. He reiterated the danger posed by the Russian war to Europe’s security and advocated for a strengthened European defense policy while acknowledging the essential role of NATO. Macron called for the development of a European defense framework without supporting a unified European army, highlighting the importance of prioritizing European industry in defense procurements.

On the matter of rule of law violations, Macron urged for intensified punitive measures, including financial sanctions, targeting foreign, pro-Russian propaganda. He called for enhanced EU cooperation beyond the agreed asylum pact to fortify external borders and urged for merciless action against human traffickers.

Towards Economic Development and Welfare

Macron proposed creating a "welfare pact" and simplifying European norms, aiming to make Europe a global leader by 2030 in five strategic sectors, including artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. This vision represents a foundational step towards managing Europe's challenges amid global competition from the United States and China, who have disregarded international trade rules.