France’s President Emmanuel Macron has stated that it is “surprising” to see leaders go ‘backwards in the civilisation process”. The French President’s remarks come as a response to US President Donald Trump leaking private texts between the two leaders.
During his three-day visit to India, Macron sat down with Indian podcaster Raj Shamani on ‘Figuring Out’ and spoke on a range of topics from Indo-French ties to his ongoing tiff with the US President.
When asked bout how he felt about the private messages being leaked, Macron did not give a direct response, but highlighted the importance of ‘respect” in diplomacy and international relations.
“I really believe that respect is a part of leadership, and we have to provide respect to each other. We can share ideas or not, you can disagree, but you have to do it in a respectful way,” said Macron.
“Between leaders and in democracies as well, which is why I have been committed to fighting against any sort of hate speech and violence in our society, because when you have democracy, you have the right to change your leadership, you decide who will take the law and pass the law on your behalf. So there is no need to be violent and disrespectful,” Macron added.
The French President also said that it was surprising to see leaders go backwards in the current state of world affairs, when asked if the world needs to be scared of where the American leadership is headed.
“Respect was built. Everything which goes with the civilisation process was built over decades and years to improve ourselves. And its a little bit surprising for people to see leaders going backwards. and its not the right message,” said Macron.
Trump vs Macron
The French leader’s response comes amid his ongoing row with Donald Trump after France declined his invitation to join the Board of Peace. Trump’s Board of Peace was set up to develop the war-torn Gaza Strip.
However, many countries, including France, have raised their concerns regarding the lack of mention of Gaza and the Israel-Palestine conflict in the board’s charter.
Shortly after this, Trump warned of 200 per cent tariffs on French wines and champagnes, telling reporters that this trade threat will coerce Macron to join the board.
The US President went on to share private text messages between him and Macron on Truth Social, where the French President is seen raising his concerns regarding US’ interest in Greenland.
