President Macron's Welcome Speech for Papal Visit

According to President Macron, Metz is the birthplace of the Carolingian dynasty and holds true European city symbolism through its geographic and historical memory. The city holds historical significance as the cornerstone of reconciliation between France and Germany, and further, of European integration.

Robert Schuman, known as a key architect of European integration and reconciliation, was from Luxembourg, received legal education in Germany, and as a deputy for the Moselle region, his Catholic faith significantly influenced his political actions.

In May 1950, Schuman proposed a method to transform coal and steel from instruments of war into common assets for the six founding nations. Later, the reconciliation between France and Germany was further solidified by the Élysée Treaty between President de Gaulle and Chancellor Adenauer in 1963.

President Macron stated that Europe exists as a civilization beyond mere geographical boundaries. European civilization is rooted in Greco-Roman and Judeo-Christian traditions and Enlightenment thought.

Core European values include human dignity, freedom, critical thinking, liberal democracy, and equality. Having endured Nazism and the Holocaust in the 20th century, Europe has further strengthened its commitment to human rights and minority protection.

This principle means protecting the autonomy of lower-level units and providing support from higher-level units when necessary.

President Macron's view is that the European Union is not a power that eradicates individual national identities but rather a force that helps each country expand its effective capacity for action. This aims for a new form of union based on equality and mutual respect, moving away from past methods of seeking unity through imperialism and war.

Unwavering support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia's military aggression were conveyed at this occasion. Challenges were also presented, including establishing an independent European defense body and strengthening technological competitiveness by securing data sovereignty. Ultimately, a stance was expressed to aim for the coexistence of economic growth and social justice.

President Macron cautioned against the way disinformation and external interventionism are fragmenting democracies from within. He also expressed concern about algorithms amplifying negative emotions and turning dialogue into conflict.

The value that technology, which should be humanity's master rather than its tool, must serve only human dignity was prioritized. To this end, Europe showed its commitment to building a digital regulatory framework.

His judgment is that technological innovation should serve human dignity, not the power of a few.

He urged for a unified and active Europe, based on collective responsibility for future generations, to continue the project of peace and prosperity.

He recalled the national unity the Pope must have felt during his visit, using a metaphor symbolizing happy memories.

Alors, nous dirons désormais en mémoire de ces 4 jours heureux comme Léon X chez nous.