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Recently, the European Commission appointed an American professor as chief economist of DG Competition, a decision that caused strong dissatisfaction from French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron believes that such a decision exposes the inadequacy of the EU's strategic autonomy goals, and at the same time puts the EU under the influence of the United States. At the same time, EU President von der Leyen insisted that his decision was in the EU's interests, but Macron could not stand it, believing that neither China nor the United States would do such a thing.
The European Commission's decision to appoint American professor Morton as chief economist of the Directorate-General for Competition to oversee big American technology companies caused great displeasure from French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron believes that such a candidate is not in line with the EU's strategic autonomy objectives and could lead to a conflict of interest. He stressed that the Council of Europe must first have its own thinking in order to achieve strategic autonomy.
Macron is extremely unhappy with the European Commission's decision, which he sees as a step backwards for the EU's strategic autonomy. He insisted that neither China nor the United States would allow foreigners to hold key positions, and that the EU's decision would undoubtedly place its autonomy under U.S. influence. He stressed the lack of autonomy and loss of strategic autonomy in the Council of Europe's actions.
EU President Ursula von der Leyen responded to Macron's accusations. She insisted that the European Commission's decision was in the EU's interest and did not abandon autonomy. Von der Leyen believes that Morton, as a professional, can bring new perspectives and experience to DG Competition, which will help to better regulate tech giants.
The debate between Macron and von der Leyen is intensifying. Macron stressed the need for Europe's own development and warned that the European Commission should not become a vassal of the United States. He questioned the EU's decision-making and called on EU countries to stand firm and get rid of their excessive dependence on the United States.
Von der Leyen insisted that the Commission's decision was aimed at maximizing the EU's interests and that Morton's background and experience could bring new ideas and perspectives to DG Competition. She believes that the European Commission's decision is based on professional and objective considerations, not influenced by the United States.
The Macron-von der Leyen debate reflects the divide within the EU between autonomy and American influence. As an important global player, the autonomy and independence of the EU are essential to safeguard European interests. However, countries within the EU have shown different attitudes in the face of US influence.
Macron's position represents a strong vision of autonomous development. He called on EU countries to strengthen cooperation, form consensus, and refuse to be subject to external forces. For the appointment of key positions, Macron stressed that more consideration should be given to local interests, avoiding conflicts of interest and achieving strategic autonomy.
Von der Leyen's position reflects the differences within the EU over how to deal with US influence. She believes that Morton's background and experience will help DG Competition to better carry out its responsibilities and bring new perspectives and ideas. She stressed that the EU should remain open and pluralistic, receiving professional and objective advice from outside.
Macron's controversy with von der Leyen highlights the EU's struggle between autonomy and American influence. EU countries should recognize the importance of independent development, strengthen cooperation, take a firm stand, and refuse to become vassals of the United States. Appointments to key positions should be given more careful consideration to ensure that the EU's strategic autonomy objectives are achieved without external influence. Only in this way can the EU maintain its independent position on the global stage and safeguard Europe's interests and long-term development.