EMMANUEL MACRON

The results of the first round of parliamentary elections in France remind one both of the significance of the hegemony of the political centre and of the permanent danger of populism.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has understood the strategic impasses created by his country’s energy dependence on Moscow, for which Angela Merkel has not expressed regret.

The democratic reflexes of the French people defeated Macron's very alluring opponent, who exploited economic difficulties and geopolitical turbulence in an effort to win votes.

Macron’s debate strategy appears to have worked, as 59 percent of voters found him more convincing than Lepen, but that does not mean that the battle has been decided.

Populism has no ideology, because all populists speak the same language. They exploit identity issues and appeal to the baser instincts of an enraged and fearful electorate.

A positive outcome such as that in Evros is feasible only when the EU partners realise that there are common European interests that must be defended as staunchly as possible.  

Emmanuel Macron's statement demonstrates the understanding that faced with a world of old and emerging super-powers Europe cannot but tread the path of solidarity and unity.