Remarks by President Donald Tusk before his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron

Good evening. I have come to you today, to the President of the proud Republic of France, with a simple message: Europe needs your energy, your imagination, your courage. And when I say Europe, I am not thinking about the institutions or bureaucracy, but about millions of Europeans, who see your victory as a sign of hope. Hope for a Europe that protects, for a Europe that wins, for a Europe that looks to the future. I am talking about the French and Belgians, Poles and Germans, the Irish and the Greeks. Because from all the European states I hear voices of those who are regaining their faith in the European Union i.

A strong EU, capable of being sovereign in relation to the external world, capable of protecting its values, culture and economic interests, capable of protecting its external border, is the best, and perhaps the only guarantee of national and state sovereignty and independence. We both believe that for rational and responsible patriots, there is no alternative to a united and sovereign Europe.

Words such as security, protection, dignity and pride must return to our political dictionary. There is no reason why, in public debate, extremists and populists should have a monopoly on these terms. Today they are cynically taking advantage of social fears and uncertainty, building their own model of security on prejudice, authoritarianism and organised hatred. Our response must be clear and decisive. And you are the best proof that this is possible, Mister President. Thank you.