France and Germany to Strengthen Cooperation in Nuclear Deterrence

Xinhua News Agency, Paris, March 2 (Reporter Sun Yi) - French President Macron and German Chancellor Merz issued a joint statement on the 2nd, stating that France and Germany have decided to engage in closer cooperation in the field of nuclear deterrence to address the evolving threat landscape.

The statement said that the two countries have established a high-level nuclear affairs steering group as a framework for bilateral theoretical dialogue and coordination of strategic cooperation, particularly to consult on the appropriate combination of conventional forces, missile defense capabilities, and French nuclear capabilities.

The statement noted that France and Germany are committed to taking concrete measures this year, including the participation of German conventional forces in French nuclear exercises, joint visits to strategic locations, and the joint development of conventional forces with European partners. The two countries will also enhance their ability to manage escalation, focusing on key areas such as early warning, air defense, and precision strikes.

The statement pointed out that this Franco-German cooperation is not intended to replace NATO's nuclear deterrence and nuclear sharing arrangements, but rather to serve a complementary role.

On the same day, Macron delivered a speech on strengthening nuclear deterrence, stating that France is entering a new phase of nuclear deterrence, which he referred to as "frontline deterrence." He indicated that the "frontline deterrence" plan provides partner countries with opportunities to participate in deterrence exercises, and in certain cases, it allows France to "deploy strategic forces among allies."